Abstract: A vertically extending, cylindrical toaster having a plurality of modules which may be integrally joined together in a single housing or may be separably stacked one upon the other. Each module comprises at least one individual heating unit having a horizontally oriented aperture opening into the unit. Each heating unit is separated from its vertical neighbors by a heat insulating layer and includes a food receiving grill, an upper heating element located above the grill, a lower heating element located below the grill, and a removable tray below the lower heating element for catching crumbs or other food particles which fall from the grill. The grill may also be movable and/or removable for easy access to the food thereon or for cleaning. Master controls for all the modules and individual controls for each separate module are contemplated to provide versatile control of the cooking processes.