Metro Heated Cabinets

Metro Food Warmers: What You Need to Know

Whether you cater wedding parties and other events using an insulated carrier, need to keep barbecue meats and sides ready for service in a Metro hot box, or run an artisanal bakery and need to proof dough using a Metro proofer, these products offer a solution.

Metro holding cabinets hold hotel pans and sheet pans at safe serving temperatures higher than 140 degrees Fahrenheit, and although they include casters, they're not typically used to transport food. Proofing cabinets are similar, but they hold the interior at lower temperatures between 80 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Banquet cabinets are designed to transport and hold plates of hot food. They include solid doors for heat retention and can be used for transferring food at banquet halls, hotels, and high-volume restaurants.

Metro proofing cabinets, standard Metro hot boxes, and units capable of both functions may include glass or solid doors, while banquet carts have solid doors.

Metro heated cabinets can be insulated or non-insulated. Insulated units hold heat well for efficient energy usage and a cool-to-the-touch exterior. Non-insulated models are offered either as an economy option, such as units in the Metro C5 1 series, or as a proofer, which doesn't reach the same temperatures as other cabinets.

The Metro C5 3 series, 4 series, and greater all offer insulated hot holding.

Insulation isn't as important in proofers as it is in hot holding, but combination units may offer this feature.

Insulated food carriers such as the Metro ML400 Mightylite are top-loading containers made of polypropylene that don't need an external power source. Operators can use them for catering or other transport of food to satellite locations.

Common Questions About Metro Heated Cabinets

Can I proof bread in a Metro holding cabinet?

Most of these cabinets are designed for hot holding, which occurs at 140 degrees Fahrenheit or hotter. Proofing, which occurs at lower temperatures with added humidity, enables the yeast in doughs to ferment before baking. For proofing, select a unit specifically designed for this capability, such as certain C5 1 series cabinets and other cabinets that have dual capability of proofing and hot holding.

Can Metro food warmers cook food?

These cabinets are designed to hold hot food that has already been cooked. They don't reach the temperatures necessary for safely cooking food.

Should I choose an insulated model?

Choosing between an insulated and non-insulated Metro heated cabinet is a decision largely based on finances. Insulated models offer the benefits of energy efficiency and holding in heat, making them cool to the touch, but they come at higher price points.

Do I need a reach-in or pass-thru unit?

Pass-thru units are designed for access from both sides and are ideal for busy kitchens. If you won't be placing and removing pans frequently, a reach-in unit may suffice.

Do I need added humidity in my Metro heated cabinet?

Purchase a unit with added humidity capabilities if you'll be holding moist foods, such as ribs, vegetables, and rice. For crispy or crunchy foods, such as pizza or fried chicken, extra humidity generally isn't necessary.