Top 5 Cube Ice Machines for
Restaurants, Bars & Hospitality Venues

Choosing the right cube ice machine for your venue is about more than just brand names — ice output capacity, ice size, energy efficiency, storage capability and installation type all play a part.

Cube ice remains the most popular format in hospitality because its slow melt rate, clarity, and versatility make it ideal for drinks service, cocktails and general use. Below, we look at the top five commercial cube ice machines available today, complete with technical insight to help you make the right choice.

1. Scotsman ACM 47 AS Self Contained Super Cuber

Overview
The Scotsman ACM 47 AS is a premium self-contained commercial cube ice machine designed for medium to high-demand environments. Built for reliability and ease of use, this is a great choice for busy bars, hotels and restaurants.

Key Features

• Daily Production: ~47kg of ice per 24 hours

• Ice Type: Cube (approximately 22mm)

• Installation: Self-contained, undercounter or stand-alone

• Storage: Integrated 19kg ice bin

• Cooling: Air-cooled system

• Material: Stainless steel exterior & food-safe components

Technical Highlights

• The gourmet cube produced here is dense with slow melt characteristics, ideal for premium beverages.

• A modular control system adapts to temperature fluctuations, ensuring consistent ice production even in hot kitchens or busy bar environments.

• Robust anti-microbial protection on food contact surfaces helps maintain hygiene between cleanings.

Best For: Cocktail bars, mid-size restaurants, hotel bars.

Pros

• Reliable 24/7 operation

• High-quality ice clarity

• Easy maintenance access

2. Hoshizaki IM-21 CNE-HC Cube Ice Maker

Overview
Hoshizaki is recognised worldwide for precision engineering, and the IM-21 CNE-HC cube machine lives up to that reputation with solid build quality and efficient ice production.

Key Features

• Daily Production: ~21kg of cube ice

• Ice Type: Small, clear cubes (approx. 22mm x 22mm)

• Installation: Freestanding or undercounter

• Cooling: Air-cooled

• Bin Capacity: ~10–12kg (varies by configuration)

• Certifications: NSF approved for commercial use

Technical Highlights

• Uses Hoshizaki’s closed-cell evaporator for improved hygiene and reduced scaling.

• Stainless steel interior and exterior help reduce corrosion and extend machine life.

• Energy-efficient compressor reduces electricity use while maintaining production levels — ideal where running costs matter.

Best For: Small bars, boutique restaurants, offices with moderate demand.

Pros

• Compact footprint

• Excellent ice clarity

• Durable commercial build

3. Ice-O-Matic UCG-045A

Overview
The Ice-O-Matic UCG-045A is a reliable, space-saving cube ice machine perfect for venues where floor space is tight but ice demand is constant.

Key Features

• Daily Production: ~45kg

• Ice Type: Medium cube (approx. 22–25mm)

• Installation: Undercounter / self-contained

• Cooling: Air-cooled

• Storage: Built-in bin (~20kg)

Technical Highlights

• Designed with easy-clean components — including removable air filters and slide-out evaporator panels — to speed up servicing.

• Antimicrobial protection integrated into ice-making surfaces reduces bacterial growth.

• Automatic purge cycle helps reduce scale build-up and extends service intervals.

Best For: Busy cafés, mid-size restaurants, front-of-house bar applications.

Pros

• Great production-to-size ratio

• Easy maintenance features

• Antimicrobial protection

4. SIMAG SDE 84 Cube Ice Maker

Overview
The SIMAG SDE 84 delivers commercial-grade performance with Italian engineering and build quality. It produces clear, slow-melting cube ice suitable for high-volume drink service.

Key Features

• Daily Production: ~80+ kg

• Ice Type: Medium cube (approx. 22–25mm)

• Installation: Freestanding

• Cooling: Air-cooled or water-cooled options**
  (Note: water-cooled variants available)

Technical Highlights

• Larger production capacity makes it ideal for venues serving high volumes — pubs, large restaurants and events.

• Efficient compressor with extended duty cycle performance reduces downtime during peak periods.

• Sturdy stainless steel construction and service-friendly design simplify cleaning and servicing.

Best For: High-volume venues, busy nightclubs, larger restaurants.

Pros

• High ice output

• Efficient compressor operation

• Flexible installation options

5. Prodis C 135 Ice Maker

Overview
The Prodis C 135 offers strong performance with dependable ice production and a competitive price tag, making it a compelling choice for smaller bars and cafés.

Key Features

• Daily Production: ~135kg

• Ice Type: Standard cube

• Installation: Self-contained or undercounter

• Cooling: Air-cooled

• Storage: External bin (sold separately)

Technical Highlights

• Very high production output compared to unit size — an excellent performance-to-price ratio.

• Robust controls with simple diagnostics make troubleshooting straightforward for service technicians.

• Energy-efficient compressor ensures lower running costs over the machine lifespan.

Best For: Small pubs, mid-size restaurants, workplace kitchens.

Pros

• Excellent capacity

• Good value for money

• Simple operation

🧠 How to Compare These Machines

When choosing between these top models, consider:

⚙️ 1. Ice Production Capacity

Match daily ice output (kg/day) to your peak demand — e.g., busy bars will need >40–50kg/day.

🧊 2. Ice Storage

Machines with integrated bins handle more service without manual scooping.

📏 3. Footprint

Undercounter units are great for smaller spaces; modular machines give more storage flexibility.

🔥 4. Cooling Type

• Air-cooled: Easier install, lower cost.

• Water-cooled: Better for hot kitchens or tight ventilated spaces.

💡 5. Operating Costs

Look for energy-efficient compressors and water-saving features.