Understanding Commercial Steam Tables and Their Functions in Restaurants

In any commercial kitchen, maintaining food at the perfect serving temperature is crucial to both customer satisfaction and food safety. This is where commercial steam tables come into play. Designed to keep food warm and ready for service, steam tables are a staple in many types of foodservice establishments. But what exactly are they, how do they function, and which types of restaurants should invest in them?

This article will explore the functions of commercial steam tables and explain what types of restaurants can benefit from using them. It will also cover how to choose the best steam table for your needs, whether you’re considering new restaurant equipment or restaurant equipment in Dallas and Fort Worth.

What Are Commercial Steam Tables?

Commercial steam tables are large, heavy-duty units designed to keep food hot during service. These tables typically consist of a metal surface with several deep wells or compartments that are filled with hot water. Food pans are placed into these wells, and steam from the heated water keeps the food at the proper temperature for extended periods without drying out or losing flavor.

There are two primary types of commercial steam tables: wet and dry. Wet steam tables use water to generate the steam that heats the food, while dry steam tables rely on direct heat to maintain temperature. Both types are widely used in restaurants, catering services, and buffet-style establishments, but the choice between wet or dry depends on the specific needs of the restaurant.

Functions of Commercial Steam Tables

Keep Food at Ideal Serving Temperature: The primary function of a steam table is to maintain food at an optimal serving temperature. This is crucial in buffet setups, self-service restaurants, and large events. Maintaining food at the correct temperature ensures that customers enjoy their meals at the right consistency and taste.
Food Safety: Keeping food at a safe temperature is not just about customer satisfaction; it’s about ensuring the food is safe to eat. According to food safety guidelines, hot food must be kept at a temperature of at least 140°F (60°C). Commercial steam tables are designed to help you meet these requirements, minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Efficiency in High-Volume Environments: In high-traffic restaurants, keeping food warm without overcooking or burning it is crucial. Steam tables provide a way to keep large quantities of food at a safe temperature without requiring constant supervision. This helps kitchen staff manage the demands of busy hours more efficiently.
Convenience for Serving: Many steam tables come with convenient features such as adjustable temperature controls, built-in wells for food pans, and even sneeze guards for hygienic food presentation. These features make steam tables ideal for buffet-style serving, cafeterias, and large events.
Energy Efficiency: Many modern commercial steam tables are designed to be energy-efficient, with well-insulated compartments that retain heat and reduce the amount of energy needed to keep food hot. This helps reduce energy costs in the long run, which is important for any restaurant trying to control overhead costs.

Types of Restaurants That Need Commercial Steam Tables

Not all restaurants need a steam table, but several types of establishments can benefit greatly from having one. Here are a few examples:

Buffets and Self-Service Restaurants: One of the most common places to find commercial steam tables is in buffet-style restaurants. These establishments rely on steam tables to keep large quantities of food at the right temperature for customers to serve themselves. Steam tables help streamline operations by allowing the kitchen staff to prepare food in bulk and keep it warm for an extended period.
Catering Services: Catering companies that serve large events, such as weddings or corporate parties, often rely on steam tables to keep dishes warm during transportation and service. They can be used to maintain the temperature of everything from meats to vegetables, ensuring that the food remains fresh and safe to eat throughout the event.
Hospital Cafeterias: Hospitals and other large institutions often need commercial steam tables to serve meals in large quantities. These establishments often require a reliable way to keep food at the right temperature, and steam tables provide an efficient solution.
School Cafeterias: Similar to hospitals, school cafeterias often prepare food in large quantities. Steam tables are essential for keeping meals warm and ensuring that students get food that is safe and ready to eat when it’s time for lunch.
Casual Dining and Fast Casual Restaurants: Fast casual restaurants, such as those that serve large portions of food in a quick-service environment, often use steam tables to keep food warm in a buffet or self-service line. This allows them to maintain fast service times without sacrificing food quality.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Commercial Steam Table

When selecting a commercial steam table for your restaurant, there are several factors to consider:

Size and Capacity: Steam tables come in various sizes, with options ranging from small, countertop units to large, full-size units that can hold several food pans. The size you choose will depend on the volume of food you need to keep warm at any given time.
Type of Heat: As mentioned earlier, you’ll need to decide whether a wet or dry steam table is right for your needs. Wet steam tables are generally better at retaining moisture, making them ideal for dishes like stews, soups, or pasta. Dry steam tables are better suited for foods that don’t require as much moisture.
Energy Efficiency: Look for a steam table with energy-efficient features, such as insulated compartments or automatic shutoff mechanisms, to help reduce energy costs in the long run.
Material and Durability: Commercial steam tables are built to withstand the demands of a busy kitchen. Stainless steel construction is the most common and offers durability, easy cleaning, and resistance to rust and corrosion.
Mobility: If your restaurant is a catering business or you need to move your steam table around the kitchen, consider opting for a model with wheels. Mobile steam tables can make transporting food easier, whether for catering events or simply moving from one part of the kitchen to another.

Where to Find Commercial Steam Tables in Dallas and Fort Worth

If you are looking to purchase restaurant equipment in Dallas or Fort Worth, there are several suppliers that offer high-quality commercial steam tables. Whether you’re purchasing new commercial restaurant equipment or opting for used units to save on costs, these locations offer a variety of steam tables to suit different restaurant needs.

Conclusion

Commercial steam tables are an essential piece of restaurant equipment for any foodservice operation that needs to keep large quantities of food warm and ready for service. Whether you’re operating a buffet, catering service, school cafeteria, or casual dining restaurant, a steam table can significantly improve efficiency and food safety. By choosing the right commercial steam table for your needs, you can ensure your food stays at the right temperature, your energy consumption is minimized, and your customers enjoy a satisfying dining experience. If you're looking for restaurant equipment in Dallas or restaurant equipment in Fort Worth, investing in a commercial steam table will prove to be a wise choice for your restaurant.