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Columbus
635 West Broad St
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Current Store Selected
- Monday - Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Saturday: 8:00am-12:00pm
- Sunday: closed
- Phone: (614) 464-0505
- Toll-free: (800) 235-3325
- Fax: (866) 534-6024
Detroit
27041 Greenfield Road
Southfield, Michigan 48076
Current Store Selected
Pennsauken
5241 State Hwy 70
Pennsauken, New Jersey 08109
Current Store Selected
- Monday - Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Saturday: 8:00am-12:00pm
- Sunday: closed
- Phone: (856) 254-0042
- Toll-free: (855) 493-8009
- Fax: (877) 369-1108
My Store for Pickup:
No Store Selected for Pickup- Home
- Cooking Equipment
- Food Warming & Holding
- Chafers & Accessories
Types of Chafers and Their Uses
Chafers come in a variety of designs and sizes. Each type serves a specific purpose and is suited to different types of events.
Roll-top chafers, for instance, are popular in buffet settings. They allow guests to serve themselves easily. The lid rolls back, providing easy access to the food.
Lift-off chafers, on the other hand, are more formal. They are typically used in sit-down dinners where staff serve the guests. The lid can be completely removed for serving.
Drop-in chafers are designed to fit into a cut-out in a buffet table. They provide a sleek and seamless look, perfect for upscale events.
Selecting the Right Chafer for Your Event
Choosing the right chafer depends on the type of event and the food being served. For instance, roll-top chafers are ideal for self-service buffets.
For formal events where staff serve the guests, lift-off chafers are a better choice. They offer a more elegant presentation.
Drop-in chafers are perfect for upscale events. They blend seamlessly into the buffet table, providing a sleek and sophisticated look.
Essential Chafer Accessories
Chafer accessories enhance the functionality and convenience of your catering setup. Some essential accessories include stands, lids, and water pans.
Stands elevate the chafer, ensuring a safe distance from the heat source. Lids keep the food warm and prevent contamination.
Water pans are crucial for maintaining the temperature of the food. They hold hot water that provides consistent, indirect heat to the food.
Stands
Lids
Water pans
Countertop Buffet Warmers
Countertop buffet warmers are versatile and easily accessible, making them a go-to for many restaurateurs. They are perfect for keeping prepared food at safe temperatures while on display. When selecting a countertop buffet warmer, consider the size and capacity you need based on your menu items and the volume of customers you serve.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a countertop buffet warmer, look for models with adjustable temperature controls, which allow you to cater to the specific heat requirements of different dishes. Additionally, units with a stainless steel construction offer durability and ease of cleaning. Some models also feature sneeze guards to protect the food from contamination, which is especially important in self-service settings.
Countertop Food Warmers
Countertop food warmers are similar to buffet warmers but often come in smaller sizes, making them ideal for à la carte restaurants that need to keep individual portions warm. They can also be used in the kitchen to hold sides and sauces at the ready for plating.
Efficiency and Convenience
One of the main advantages of countertop food warmers is their efficiency. They heat up quickly and maintain consistent temperatures, ensuring that food stays warm throughout service hours. Many units are designed for easy operation, with simple dial controls and indicator lights that signal when the desired temperature is reached.
Soup Kettles
Soup kettles are a must-have for any restaurant that serves soups, stews, or sauces. They are specifically designed to heat these types of food gently, avoiding scorching or separation that can occur with direct heat.
Why Choose a Soup Kettle
Soup kettles offer a range of benefits, including adjustable temperature settings and a hinged lid that retains moisture and heat. They also typically feature an insert pot that can be removed for cleaning. Opt for a model with a ladle opening, which allows staff to serve soup without removing the lid, maintaining temperature and hygiene.