Metal Serving Dishes

Metal Servingware: What You Need to Know

Ideal for giving your establishment a sleek, modern look, metal serveware may be constructed of numerous metals. Available in various styles – including metal serving trays and metal serving bowls – metal servingware has several benefits. It is durable and its appearance complements myriad settings. Metal serving trays enable servers to carry multiple dishes at a time easily, and they can also be used as dining table centerpieces. Great for catered events, some metal serving trays can be used to serve hors d'oeuvres to guests. In the section below, we'll answer common questions you may have regarding metal serveware.

Common Questions About Metal Serveware

What types of materials is metal serveware made of?

Metal servingware often is constructed of stainless steel, aluminum, steel, copper, or pewter. Stainless steel is durable and resistant to rusting, so it can withstand long-term use. It is also simple to clean and resists scratching and staining. Aluminum serving trays are lightweight, so they're simple to carry and less expensive than stainless steel serving trays. However, aluminum is less durable than stainless steel and may not withstand as much day-to-day use.

Both stainless steel and aluminum can endure high temperatures; however, the exact temperature range they can handle depends on the product. Withstanding high heat makes them ideal for carrying hot food, as the tray doesn't burn the handler. Copper typically is seen as a high-end option because of its price point and distinctive orange-gold finish. Pewter – made of at least 92 percent tin – is another material that has a lavish appearance, but it isn't as durable as aluminum and stainless steel. More delicate metal serveware should be handled carefully and washed by hand to preserve their quality and prevent scratches.

What kinds of metal servingware is available?

Metal servingware is available in a plethora of styles to serve various foods effectively. Metal serving bowls are ideal for serving chilled items such as fruit and salad, while cone holders can support ice cream cones or cone containers of fries. Metal fry cups and boxes are also ideal for serving fries. Metal serving tubs are ideal for storing large amounts of chilled items, such as crab legs, or for sorting various condiments. Metal serving dishes are great for mixing and tossing ingredients, while metal plates and platters are used to serve foods, including hors d'oeuvres and other bite-sized foods.

Do you need a metal serving bowl?

Ranging from 10 to 220 ounces, metal serving bowls can be used for numerous purposes, from single servings to buffets. Some stainless steel bowls feature a hammered finish that gives a completely different aesthetic. Others may be designed with a double wall to provide insulation, ensuring food stays at safe temperatures for extended periods of time. Large metal serving bowls designed for hot food may also come with a roll-top lid or different style of cover to make certain that food stays warm when it isn't actively being served. Like trays, bowls may be circular or oval-shaped, and many are available to display nonperishable food such as fruit, candy, nuts, and packaged snacks.