There’s regular ice… and then there’s nugget ice — the soft, crunchy, chewable kind you find at Sonic or high-end coffee bars. If you’ve ever wanted that same satisfying crunch at home or in your café, a commercial nugget ice maker is your ticket. These powerful machines produce pebble-like ice that chills drinks fast, blends perfectly in smoothies, and keeps customers coming back for more. Below, we’ve rounded up the 5 best commercial nugget ice makers for bars, coffee shops, and serious ice enthusiasts at home.
1. GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker
- Makes up to 24 lbs of nugget ice per day
- Smart app control with Wi-Fi and Alexa compatibility
- Compact countertop design with side water tank option
Why I like it: The GE Profile Opal 2.0 is the gold standard for nugget ice makers. It’s fast, sleek, and incredibly easy to use — plus, it’s one of the few models that looks great in both homes and commercial setups. The Bluetooth and app control let you schedule batches, monitor cleaning, and check water levels remotely.
Best for: Homeowners and coffee shop owners who want premium nugget ice with smart control features.
2. Scotsman SCN60PA-1SS Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker
- Produces up to 80 lbs of ice per day
- Stainless steel construction with built-in or freestanding design
- Storage capacity: 26 lbs
Why I like it: This Scotsman model is what restaurants and hotels rely on — and for good reason. It’s powerful, dependable, and makes that perfect chewable ice everyone loves. Yes, it’s pricey, but it’s a long-term investment for any serious kitchen or bar.
Best for: Cafés, bars, and high-demand commercial environments needing consistent nugget ice output.
3. Manitowoc CNF-0201A-L Nugget Ice Maker and Dispenser
- Self-contained ice maker and water dispenser combo
- Produces up to 315 lbs of ice daily
- Touchless sensor for hygienic use
Why I like it: This Manitowoc unit is perfect for coffee bars, offices, and restaurants where hygiene and volume matter. The touchless dispenser makes it ideal for public use, while its nugget texture is light, crunchy, and fast-melting — great for iced drinks and smoothies.
Best for: Cafés or commercial settings with high daily ice needs and a focus on sanitation.
4. KBice Self-Dispensing Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
- Makes up to 30 lbs of nugget ice per day
- Self-dispensing — no scooping required
- No water hookup needed (uses refillable reservoir)
Why I like it: Compact, sleek, and fully self-contained, the KBice is ideal for home bars or small businesses. The self-dispense feature means no germs from scooping, and it doesn’t require plumbing. Bonus: it makes some of the softest nugget ice in its class.
Best for: Home kitchens and offices that want mess-free, hygienic ice dispensing.
5. NewAir Nugget Countertop Ice Maker
- Produces up to 44 lbs of nugget ice per day
- Compact design with see-through window
- Auto self-cleaning function
Why I like it: Affordable and reliable, the NewAir Nugget Ice Maker is perfect for smaller restaurants or home kitchens. It’s fast, efficient, and easy to clean — making it a great mid-range option that doesn’t sacrifice ice quality.
Best for: Home users and small businesses wanting high-quality nugget ice at a lower price point.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Nugget Ice Maker
1. Output Capacity
For home use, 25–50 lbs per day is usually plenty. Commercial settings like bars or cafés should aim for 70 lbs or more daily production.
2. Storage & Size
Consider where you’ll install it — undercounter, countertop, or freestanding. Models like the Scotsman SCN60PA offer large storage while still fitting standard cabinetry.
3. Water Source
Some units connect directly to water lines, while others (like KBice) use refillable tanks — ideal if plumbing access is limited.
4. Maintenance
Look for self-cleaning systems or removable components. Regular cleaning prevents buildup and keeps the ice tasting pure.
5. Noise & Speed
Commercial-grade machines can be loud, so if you’re installing one at home, opt for quieter models like the GE Opal 2.0 or NewAir.
FAQs
What makes nugget ice different from regular ice?
Nugget ice is softer and more porous than cubed ice. It absorbs flavor better, chews easily, and chills drinks quickly without diluting them as fast.
Do I need a water hookup for a nugget ice maker?
Not necessarily. Models like the GE Opal 2.0 and KBice feature refillable water tanks, so no plumbing is required — perfect for home or office setups.
How often should I clean my ice maker?
For best performance, clean your nugget ice maker every 1–2 weeks. Machines with self-cleaning cycles make this simple — just run the cleaning mode and rinse.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re serving cold brew at a café or margaritas at home, nugget ice takes every drink to the next level. The GE Profile Opal 2.0 is unbeatable for everyday use, while the Scotsman SCN60PA and Manitowoc CNF-0201A-L dominate in high-demand commercial settings. Whatever your space or budget, these commercial nugget ice makers deliver the perfect crunch, every single time.
Related Reading
5 Best Ice Cream Makers for Every Home
Best Commercial Blenders for Smoothies & Drinks