When buying chafers its easy to see that you have a lot of options. Chafers come in all shapes, sizes, materials and functions. They are not only the most efficient way to keep food warm but also probably the most elegant features of your buffet or catered event. With their sleek and shiny surfaces and graceful curves they can give your wedding or formal dinner a touch of class.
Chafers are, essentially, portable food warmers that function via gas or electricity to heat water in a pan held above the heat source by a frame which sustains the food’s temperature. Chafers come in a variety of shapes, mostly consisting of rectangle, square, round and oval. The size of chafer you need is strictly based on how much food you plan on serving. The Continental Series from Update International is a good choice for large gatherings.
If you are going to be using chafer’s frequently, such as in cases of buffets and catering businesses, you might want to consider the quality of chafer you buy. The level of quality which a chafer is categorized is generally based on the material it’s made of. While economy chafers are fairly inexpensive because their made of aluminum their durability may not hold up to that of a more expensive high-end chafer, which are typically stainless steel. Also consider which type of lid you want. Lift-top chafers have coverings that completely separates from the chafer dish while roll top chafers have lids that, as the name suggests, rolls back under the chafer dish and remains attached. This type of lid usually gives people better access to the food without the inconvenience of having to hold on to the cover.
While most chafers come with the food pan included there are many interchangeable pans that you can purchase for more options, such as a divided food pan , as well as wire frames and fuel holders. In addition to food containers, chafers also come in other varieties. You can find coffee urns, soup chafers, and dispensers in the same functional designs. These types of chafers are especially useful for hotels that host formal events and serve continental breakfasts.
If your considering buying chafers for your event or business don’t forget to check out tongs and serving spoons .
