Understanding Hotel Pan Sizes

Hotel pans—also known as service pans, counter pans, or steam table pans—are an essential part of any commercial kitchen because they're used in food storage, preparation, and presentation. Despite their common presence, understanding hotel pan sizes can be confusing due to the wide range of widths, depths, and naming conventions. What one operator calls a "steam table pan" might be referred to as a "counter pan" by another. Regardless of the terminology, these versatile containers are beneficial for all types of foodservice operations.

Food Pan Size Chart (with Capacities)

Note that capacities are approximate and represent 80 percent of a pan's brimful capacity.

U.S. vs. Gastronorm Pan Sizes

While hotel pans are standardized in both the U.S. and Europe, there are key differences between the two systems that operators should be aware of. European pans follow the Gastronorm standard, so measurements different slightly from the standard sizing used in the U.S., especially in rim width and corner radius. Because of these differences, it's important to choose compatible pans when mixing brands or restocking and replacing your supply to ensure a proper fit with your existing equipment.

Common Gastronorm (GN) Pan Sizes (in mm):

• GN 2/1: 650 x 530
• GN 1/1: 530 x 325
• GN 2/4: 530 x 162
• GN 2/3: 354 x 325
• GN 1/2: 325 x 265
• GN 1/3: 325 x 176
• GN 1/4: 265 x 163
• GN 1/6: 176 x 162
• GN 1/9: 176 x 108

Common Hotel Pan Sizes & Uses

Hotel pans come in a range of standard sizes based on the full-size footprint—typically 12 inches by 20 inches. This sizing system enables operators to combine fractional pans in a single well or rail, offering flexibility across steam tables, cold bars, and refrigerated prep stations. Though dimensions may vary slightly between manufacturers, standard hotel pans are designed to nest smoothly, maintain consistent heating or chilling, and support efficient foodservice workflows.

• Full size (12 in. x 20 in.): Ideal for entrees like fried chicken and lasagna; commonly used in steam tables and food wells for high-volume service
• Two-thirds size (12 in. x 13¹/₃ in.): Great for proteins, casseroles, and large servings of sides; fills most of a full-size slot while leaving room for a third-size or smaller pan
• Half size (12 in. x 10 in.): Used for side dishes and smaller entrees; two of these pans fit perfectly in one full-size pan slot
• Third size (12 in. x 6²/₃ in.): Common for soups, sides, and desserts; three fit in a full-size space
• Fourth size (6 in. x 10 in.): Popular for vegetables and sides on hot or cold bars; four fill one full-size space
• Sixth size (6 in. x 6²/₃ in.): Ideal for toppings, dressings, and mix-ins in settings such as salad and sandwich prep stations; six fit into a full-size slot
• Ninth size (4 in. x 6²/₃ in.): Best for small quantities of garnishes, sauces, or spices; nine fit a full-size space

Types of Hotel Pan Materials

Hotel pans are commonly made of stainless steel or plastic. Stainless steel pans, especially those with lower gauge numbers, are ideal for heavy-duty use, including cooking and hot holding. Plastic pans are typically used for specific applications in cold storage or dry storage. Each material offers distinct advantages.

• Stainless Steel: Best for hot holding, cooking, and heavy-duty applications; available in range of gauges to suit different needs
• Polycarbonate: Ideal for cold storage and food prep; clear, durable, and resistant to staining and odor absorption
• Polypropylene: Cost-effective choice for cold and dry applications
• Melamine: Often used for food displays and serving; known for its break-resistant properties but not suitable for high-heat applications
• Composites: These blended materials are usually used in specialty or insulated food pans

Types of Hotel Pan Covers

Hotel pan covers play a critical role in keeping food at the ideal temperature, protecting it from contamination, and ensuring safe, clean transport. Whether you're storing food, holding it in a steam table, or transferring it from one area to another, the right cover helps maintain quality. With various types of covers designed for specific purposes available, operators can choose the solution for their needs. Here are some common types of hotel pan covers and their functions:

• Solid Covers: Maintain temperature and protect contents
• Slotted Covers: Designed to hold serving utensils while keeping food covered
• Hinged Covers: Provide fast access to stored contents without complete removal; prevent losing track of covers
• Sealing Lids: Snap-tight options encourage safe storage and transport; often used with plastic pans
• Domed Covers: Offer extra clearance for bulkier food items

Explore Hotel Pan Accessories

Hotel pan accessories can enhance the performance, storage, and versatility of your pans. Below are several types of accessories that support efficiency and organization:

• Pan Grates: Elevate food for proper drainage in steam tables, preventing sogginess and maintaining quality
• Adapters & Insets:Enable smaller pans to fit within a full-size well, optimizing space
• Drain Shelves: Keep food elevated above excess juices and grease, preserving food texture
• Lid Organizers & Pan Racks: Streamline storage and improve efficiency by keeping lids and pans neatly organized for quick access
• Transport Covers & Carriers: Provide secure, temperature-controlled transport for off-site service or catering events

Finding the Hotel Pan Sizes You Need

Choosing the right hotel pan size is necessary for meeting your kitchen's specific needs. With a wide range of sizes available, it's important to consider factors like depth, thickness, and corner design, as these can impact the pan's capacity and functionality. This guide should help you determine which hotel pan sizes to use, but for more detailed advice, our article on selecting the right hotel pan depth can provide further insight. Be sure to also explore our full selection of hotel pans to find the sizes for your operation. Looking for brand-specific sizing information? Check out our Cambro food pan size guide for a detailed breakdown of Cambro’s pan dimensions, capacities, and uses.