Whether your business is a nightclub going through hundreds of pounds of ice each night or a mid-sized office that enjoys chilled drinks on the go, a commercial ice machine can meet your needs. Thanks to their size and power, commercial ice makers can produce large quantities of ice quickly and consistently. Broadly speaking, there are three main types of ice: cubed ice, nugget ice, and flake ice.

Cubed ice

Cubed ice is the most common type found in American households. It’s typically square and can be made in a standard ice maker or with a silicone tray filled with tap water. Its solid, blocky shape means it melts slowly, making it ideal for everyday drinks—think iced coffee, soda, or a chilled glass of lemonade. Bars love it for cocktails too, as it chills drinks without diluting them too quickly. Bonus: It fits perfectly in coolers, and its sturdy structure helps keep food and drinks cold during picnics or road trips.

Nugget ice (aka "chewable ice")

If you’ve ever grabbed a soda at a fast-food restaurant or convenience store, you’ve probably come across nugget ice. These small, soft, pebble-like pieces are beloved for an obvious reason—they’re easy to chew. Unlike hard ice cubes, nugget ice is porous and melts faster, making it perfect for smoothies, iced coffee, or simply a quick thirst-quencher. It’s also popular in hospitals, as its soft texture makes it easier for patients to swallow. Made using specialized ice machines, nugget ice adds a pleasant, satisfying crunch to every sip.

Flake ice

With its flat, delicate structure, flake ice blends seamlessly into its surroundings, making it a standout at grocery stores and seafood counters. Freshly caught fish, shrimp, and other seafood are often layered with flake ice to keep them cold and moist, its thin, pliable flakes wrap tightly around the food, locking in freshness.

Flake ice also shines in healthcare settings: hospitals use it to cool feverish patients or soothe wounds, thanks to its soft texture, which won’t irritate the skin.

Every business aims to deliver an exceptional customer experience, and a key part of keeping guests consistently satisfied lies in having the right ice machine. COOLAKE Company specializes in cubed ice and brings extensive experience and expertise to commercial ice production. Whether you’re renting an ice machine for an upcoming event or planning to invest in a long-term commercial solution, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to answer any questions you have about commercial ice making.

From crunching on chewable nugget ice with a soda, savoring slow-melting cubes in a cocktail, to scooping up fresh seafood nestled in a bed of flake ice, it just goes to show: even frozen ice has its own unique personality. With Coolake, every drink, every meal, and every gathering becomes that much more enjoyable.