About

Independent Restaurant Supply began as a small family business when founder Saul Bornstein started selling restaurant smallwares out of the basement of his home in Newburyport, Massachusetts in 1994. His early inventory included silverware, china, and equipment catalogs piled under a family ping-pong table — a humble start that reflected hands-on hustle and deep understanding of foodservice needs. Over time, the business experienced steady growth as demand for commercial kitchen tools and professional equipment expanded in the Northeast. Soon Independent Restaurant Supply moved out of the basement and established retail and distribution locations in Portland, Maine and Portsmouth, New Hampshire, which remain the company’s main showrooms today. The company supplies a wide range of foodservice products suitable for restaurants, cafés, bars, hotels, caterers, institutional kitchens, and other hospitality locations. Its product categories include beverage & bar equipment, chef apparel, cleaning & facility supplies, cooking equipment, dishwashing systems, disposables, food display & merchandising, food preparation tools, furniture, ice machines, plumbing equipment, refrigeration systems, smallwares & kitchen accessories, storage and transportation products, and tabletop items. Independent Restaurant Supply’s approach emphasizes personalized service, local inventory accessibility, and tax-free purchasing (in New Hampshire) — advantages for regional foodservice professionals outfitting kitchens or replenishing supplies. The company’s regional presence in Maine and New Hampshire also positions it to support operators throughout New England with high-quality products, knowledgeable sales staff, and timely order fulfillment. Leadership transitioned to the next generation over time, with Saul’s son Dan Bornstein managing the Portland location and his nephew Pete helping run the Portsmouth branch — illustrating the company’s family-centric culture and long-term commitment to customer service. Non-family team members also play key roles in supporting daily operations and customer success.

Industries Served

Restaurants, Bars, Hospitality, Catering, Institutional foodservice, Commercial kitchens.