Bulk Stainless Steel Trays & Platters

Common Questions About Metal Trays

Are metal trays just for serving food?

Generally, metal serving trays for restaurants are intended for food-serving purposes, but delivering food is not their be all end all – rather, it is their starting point. Metal trays are divided into two categories: metal cafeteria trays, which are implemented in self-serve settings, and metal serving trays for restaurants, which provide temporary upscale housing for product at elevated establishments.

Some metal trays are designed to display trayed food while keeping it cold when used in combination with compatible equipment configurations, but their scope goes beyond simple rote functionality. If they're intended for stationary tabletop use and not serving portability, metal serving trays for restaurants can complement tabletops with grace and style. Their timeless versatility is what establishes metal trays as the optimal decision in fine dining.

A choice selection of metal cafeteria trays will help draw attention to food presentation, taking the dining experience to new heights. Metal serving trays for restaurants are a great visual accent at venues and banquets, and they're an effortless way to augment tabletop presentations and the general atmosphere, as well as the food and beverages being served.

Alternatively, metal trays are the perfect solution for creating a flat, hard surface when none are available – a feature that may come in handy when serving at locations that lack reliable surfaces. While metal trays may be optimal for organizing food, they can also be used to sort supplies at catered events, such as assigning one tray for silverware and another for moist towelettes.

Metal serving trays for restaurants are a combination of artistic expression and practical organization. They are an outlet for foodservice establishments to give voice to their foods, providing a creative means to arrange seasonal displays, decorative objects, and aesthetic accents in a way that is removable and changeable.

How can I style my metal trays?

Think of metal trays as an extension of the plate – except in the case of metal cafeteria trays with built-in dividers, which serve as plates themselves. Metal trays are the perfect way to group foods and beverages together in a way that is both practical and pretty. This is an opportunity to showcase your establishment's personal, authentic style.

If you want to decorate metal trays for stationary purposes, start by putting together items that vary in texture and height. This may apply to foods and beverages or touches of décor you place on the tray with them. If you go this route, keep balance and symmetry in mind. Start with the tallest item and then progress to the smallest. Craft a setup that complements the product you're serving, especially in regard to color scheme, or employ ornamentation that makes sense for the event or upcoming holiday.

Metal serving trays for restaurants can also tie the room's décor together. For instance, metal trays with a mirror finish would bring a room with mirrors together, though you should also consider how much you'll be serving on each tray. Too small a tray and the presentation will be unwieldy, but too large a tray and your food may seem underwhelming. This is why employing several metal trays is important – guests can help themselves rather than crowding around one tray.

If you want to bring more attention to the product being served, try metal trays with a simple design. You should aim to make things interesting without being overwhelming. Arranging trays on stands with varied heights, for instance, can lend a new element of visual interest to your foodservice display.

What kind of metal trays should I get?

Consider what your metal trays will be used for. Metal cafeteria trays are, of course, best for self-service, but think about whether you'll be employing your metal serving trays for restaurants for aesthetic display or serving portability. Some metal trays are constructed with handles for simpler handling; others have contemporary geometric styles. The hand-hammered varieties add an extra layer of richness to décor, but the stainless steel construction creates a permanent shine while resisting corrosion. Whatever style you choose, metal trays are suitable for catered events, parties, receptions, and more.