Serve in Style: 31 Best Food Trays for Entertaining and Everyday Dining

Welcome to our food tray roundup! Here, we’ve compiled a list of the best food trays that are perfect for any occasion. From outdoor events to backyard barbecues, our selection of trays offers style, durability, and practicality. Explore our choices and find the perfect food tray for your next gathering.

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Stylish Studded Metal 3-Tier Food Tray

Transform your party spread with this elegant 3-tier tray, made from sturdy metal and boasting a vintage charm. The ring-handle top ensures easy transport, while the trays’ varying sizes provide ample space for displaying treats or showcasing cupcakes. With its metallic sheen and gold studded edges, this contemporary kitchen decoration is a versatile and durable addition to any festive gathering.

YHOSSEUN Porcelain Baking Tray Set with Serveware Stand

Enhance your culinary creations with the YHOSSEUN 3-tier buffet server - perfectly designed for charcuterie, appetizers, desserts, and salads. With a classic style and glossy porcelain baking set, this serving stand showcases vibrant colors and is easy to clean. Non-stick coating ensures low-fat cooking, while dishwasher-safe materials keep everything simple. Enjoy stress-free entertaining with this stunning 5-piece bakeware set, all made from durable carbon steel for the convenience and comfort of your kitchen.

Versatile 3-Tier Collapsible Serving Tray with Black Wood Base & Quality Plates

Stonarc’s versatile 3-tier serving tray is a unique addition to your next event, impressing guests and creating conversation. Made with a sturdy metal wire stand, three quality porcelain platesplates and bowls, this set is easy to assemble and store, perfect for hosting a variety of celebrations and gatherings. Complete with a wooden base, it’s both practical and stylish, and even makes a great gift.

Elegant Rectangular Plastic Food Tray for Entertaining

Indulge in stylish entertaining with the Way to Celebrate 14 inch Rectangular Plastic Food Tray. Its sleek, clear rectangular design adds sophistication to any party presentation. Made of high-quality, lightweight, and sturdy plastic, this versatile tray allows you to serve a variety of appetizers, desserts, fruits, and more at your next gathering. With a spacious 14-inch surface, your food will look and taste great. After the party, it’s effortless to clean and reuse for future events, making it an eco-friendly choice. Perfect for various occasions, this tray is your go-to solution for elegant entertaining.

Maryland Plastics White Rectangular Tray

Organize your buffet or celebration with flair using this heavyweight, 10x14-inch rectangular serving tray, crafted from premium, non-toxic plastic. Its sturdy lipped edges prevent spills, and the versatile design adds elegance to any occasion. Dispose of it simply after use for easy cleanup.

Eco-Friendly Cream Plastic Food Tray with Easy Cleanup

This Made by Design serving platter is a versatile and durable choice for your table needs. Crafted from 70% post-consumer recycled PET water bottles, this sustainable option is perfect for keeping dishes organized and presentable. Standing at 20.88 inches in length, 13.71 inches in width, and 2.72 inches in height, this plastic tray offers a semisatin finish that’s dishwasher safe and easy to clean. With two side handles and its lightweight design, this platter is a great option for your daily activities.

Illustrated Painted Birch Holiday Serving Tray

Get ready to impress your guests with the adorable Holiday Tree Round Serving Tray. This laminated paper and birch wood delight is made in full color and is FSC-certified, so you know it’s environmentally friendly. Handcrafted in Sweden, this lightweight tray is perfect for serving your favorite holiday treats. Not only is it dishwasher safe, but it’s also FSC-certified and food safe to ensure a worry-free holiday. Your guests will be amazed by its unique design and durability.

BWRMHME Mini Beech Serving Tray & Platter

Transform your table with this exquisite BWRMHME Mini Beech Serving Tray and Platter, handcrafted from genuine beech wood. Embrace the natural beauty as you serve coffee, small cakes, and more. Perfect for occasions like birthdays and Christmas, adding a touch of elegance to every event. Each tray comes with a large size of 10x23cm and a small size of 10x18cm. Despite its natural charm, avoid washing it with water, stick to a dry cloth for cleaning to preserve its shape.

Amscan Transparent Storage Tray

Enhance your party presentation with the Amscan Clear Tray, a versatile rectangular tray designed for serving hors d’oeuvres and mini appetizers. Made from high-quality plastic, this clear tray features raised edges to secure items in place and coordinate with any color scheme. Ideal for various occasions, this 9 1/4” wide by 14 1/4” long tray measures 1 1/4” deep and is suitable for hand washing. Although not suitable for boiling hot liquids or microwave use, this clear tray is a great value at a terrific price.

Red & White Stripe Appetizer Tray Set

Bring some patriotic flair to your grilling or picnic games with these vibrant red and white striped serving trays. Perfect for serving up kabobs, brats, cheese slices, fresh baked cookies - the list goes on! These versatile trays can be used for festive occasions like Memorial Day or the 4th of July, or simply for a fun summer day in the park. Made of durable paper, these trays come in a set of three, conveniently sized at 18 1/2” x 1” x 10 1/2”.

Hearth & Hand with Magnolia Brown Carved Wood Serving Tray

Welcome an enchanting and adaptable complement to your tableware assortment with Hearth & Hand with Magnolia’s Grand Carved Wood Platter. This spacious round dish, meticulously fashioned from sturdy mango wood, is ideal for exhibiting your gastronomic masterpieces and infusing an element of charm into your atmosphere. This chameleon-like piece effortlessly syncs with any décor, making it a practical and tasteful element you won’t want to miss. Whether showcasing hors d’oeuvres or decorative elements, its user-friendly design and elevated edges render it the perfect platter for any gathering.

Rustic Farmhouse Wooden Rectangular Tray with Metal Detailing

Introducing the Brown Rectangular Farmhouse Wooden Tray with Rivets Accent and Metal Trim - a stunning blend of rustic charm and expert craftsmanship. This spacious tray is designed to elevate your kitchen, dining table, or buffet console with its sturdy construction and eye-catching wood grain details. Featuring scalloped handles that provide portability, the tray is handcrafted from durable mango wood and a solid composite wood frame, ensuring a prolonged lifespan. The natural brown finish complements the overall aesthetics, making it an excellent choice for serving appetizers, desserts, or displaying decorative items. Get ready to impress your guests with this one-of-a-kind accent piece.

Stylish Bamboo Serving Tray for Outdoor Dining and Decorative Serving

This Bamboo Serving Tray offers a sleek and modern design that’s perfect for outdoor dining or as an eye-catching decorative piece. The lightweight yet sturdy construction makes it easy to handle, and its smooth surface ensures effortless clean-up. The tray’s rectangular shape provides ample space for a full plate, while the generously sized handles allow for comfortable movement from room to room. With its attractive honey hue and glossy finish, this versatile tray is a great addition to any home.

Park Hill Farmhouse Enamelware Rectangular Tray

Experience the charm of early 20th-century designs with this Park Hill Collection Rectangle Tray. Featuring a classic black and white finish, this enamelware gem has a vintage farmhouse feel. Ideal for serving snacks or drinks, its size of 15.5 inches by 10.25 inches ensures it’s perfect for any occasion. Crafted from cold-rolled steel and enamel glaze, this beautifully durable tray is oven safe and food safe, making it a versatile addition to your kitchenware. Hand wash it to preserve its stunning finish and enjoy the timeless elegance of this Park Hill treasure.

Rifle Paper Co. Aviary Round Bent Plywood Tray

This Rifle Paper Co. Aviary round bent ply tray not only adds a touch of elegance to your home but also serves as a versatile and lightweight tray for hosting gatherings or adding a pop of color to your decor. Handcrafted from birch and laminated plywood, this intricately designed tray is perfect for serving drinks or coffee tablecoffee table decortable decor. With a dishwasher safe finish and a recommended maximum weight of 15 pounds, this modern and stylish tray is sure to impress.

Jubilee 16” Round Restaurant Serving Trays - NSF Certified & Non-Slip

Experience the convenience of these round restaurant serving trays, designed for high-volume use and built to last. The heavy-duty, BPA-free plastic construction, along with raised edges and a non-slip grip surface, ensures hassle-free transport of dishes and glassware without any slipping or spilling. These serving trays are NSF certified, meeting the strict standards for public health protection, making them suitable for use in any foodservice environment, from restaurants to bars and hotels. With their sturdy and nonslip design, your guests can easily carry their meals from the kitchen to the table. The perfect addition to any dining experience.

Adjustable Temperature Chafing Trays for Parties and Holidays

Introducing the Elite Gourmet Dual Server Food Warmer, a must-have addition to your kitchen for entertaining or special events. This versatile food warmer features two 2.5-quart buffet trays with slotted lids, perfect for serving up delicious dishes and keeping them warm for your guests to enjoy. The stainless steel warming base can be used on its own or with pans and dishes, providing a reliable and efficient heating solution. With adjustable temperature controls, you can easily select the ideal setting to keep your food at the perfect temperature without overcooking. Additionally, the convenient carry handles make it easy to transport and use in various settings, while its stylish design complements any kitchen top or countertop. Don’t let cold dishes ruin your events – invest in the Elite Gourmet Dual Server Food Warmer today and make your gatherings a success.

Stylish Stainless Steel Portable Food Warmer

This elegant and stylish stainless steel food warmer from Ovente offers an affordable solution for keeping your favorite dishes warm and delicious. With its 17-inch by 9.6-inch surface, it’s perfect for movie marathons, Thanksgiving celebrations, birthday parties, and other special events. The adjustable temperature controller ensures your food stays at the perfect warmth, and the cool-touch handle and LED light make it easy and safe to use. Its low wattage ensures energy efficiency, saving you money in the long run. And with its easy-to-clean design, maintaining this warming tray is a breeze.

Customizable Paintable Wooden Rectangular Tray with Handles

This attractive wooden tray is not just a functional serving piece, it’s a blank canvas waiting for your creative touch. Made from lightweight yet durable wood, this natural beauty can be used as is or let your imagination run wild with paint and embellishments to make it truly your own. Its sleek rectangular shape and angled sides not only add to its aesthetic appeal, but also provide ample space to display your favorite treats or decorate for special occasions. With sturdy handles on each side, this versatile tray is perfect for lifting and carrying with ease. So, go ahead and make a statement with this unique serving tray, perfect for customization and adding a touch of personal style to your home decor.

Decorative Green Serving Tray for Ottoman, Bathroom, and Kitchen Use

Bring a touch of elegance to your home with the MAONAME Square Green Tray. This stylish and versatile 13-inch by 13-inch square plastic tray comes complete with two sturdy handles, perfect for safely transporting food and drinks. With its eye-catching design and smart size, this tray is an eye-catching addition to your coffee table, as well as a great choice for your bathroom, kitchen, or anywhere else you need to add a touch of flair.

Elegant Brown Metal Serving Tray Set

Serve up a feast with this elegant set of two metal serving trays, boasting a stunning copper brown finish and textured iron design. Made of durable iron, these stylish oval trays feature a pierced metal rim and subtle engravings on the surface, adding a touch of artistic flair. Great for any occasion, these trays will make a lovely addition to your tabletop decor.

Modern Black Round Serving Tray for Coffee Table

Experience the perfection of a Lobolighting black round decorative serving tray, skillfully handcrafted with a smooth polished iron surface. Its eco-friendly matte black finish adds a touch of elegance to any setting, while its soft-padded base protects your furniture. Versatile and chic, this tray serves as the perfect addition to bed or breakfast, vanity, or as an ottoman, jewelry, or candle holder. Let your creativity shine with this multipurpose centerpiece for your modern farmhouse home decorations.

Okuna Outpost Black Nonslip Serving Tray for Cafeteria, School, and Restaurant

These Okuna Outpost serving trays are a fantastic addition to any catering event or food truck festival. With a sturdy plastic surface and non-slip design, they can hold your drinks and snacks securely, making them perfect for cafeterias, schools, and even fast food restaurants. Plus, with a size of 12 x 16 inches and a thickness of 2.95 inches, these trays are not only durable but also easy to clean. With a 4.6-star rating and 17 reviews praising their craftsmanship, durability, and capacity, these black trays are a must-have for any food lover.

Montecito Decorative Shagreen Faux Leather Tray for Serving and Display

Take your coffee table or fireplace to the next level with the Montecito Home Decorative Coffee Table TrayCoffee Table Tray. This versatile, faux leather tray adds elegance and function, perfect for serving breakfast, drinks, or liquor. With options in Pitch Black and Snow White, it can complement both modern and farmhouse styles seamlessly. With a brushed finish and shaped as a rectangular tray, it’s truly a standout addition to any room.

Polished Acacia Wood Ottoman Tray for Food and Drink Serving

Welcome to the Fine Nest Home Acacia Wood Ottoman Tray, a mesmerizing fusion of practicality and natural allure. This remarkable piece showcases an innovative, artisan-crafted appearance along with raised edges. It has the ability to transform any coffee table into a cozy nook for culinary delights, beverages, or decorative trinkets. The rustic elegance of this tray harmonizes seamlessly with a wide array of interior styles, ranging from country to contemporary. The robust construction and incorporated handles underscore its multifunctionality, making it a valuable and fashionable accessory for any living area - ideal for both formal soirées and laid-back social interactions.

Wooden Bed Tray with Foldable Legs

Introducing the Wood Serving Bed Tray from Threshold, a beautiful and practical addition to your home decor! Featuring a classic farmhouse charm, this rectangular tray will infuse any space with style and convenience. Perfect for those cozy nights in or mornings spent indulging in bed, this versatile tray makes a fantastic addition to your breakfast in bed or late-night snacking routine. Built with durability in mind, the tray boasts a smooth and sturdy surface that’s perfect for holding small plates, coffee mugsmugs, and other essentials. Convenient foldable legs also ensure easy placement and stability beside your bed. When not in use, simply fold it away for compact storage. Say goodbye to cluttered space hassles and elevate your home decor with this charming Wood Serving Bed Tray from Threshold!

Stylish Acacia Wood Serving Tray - Perfect for Dinner Parties

Elevate your dining game with this stunning 16-inch x 24-inch Rectangular Wood Serving Tray, featuring metal handles in a beautiful brown and copper finish. This acacia wood and stainless steel combination creates a stylish addition to any dining table or countertop. Its generously sized depth makes it ideal for serving a range of dishes, from charcuterie boards to desserts. The sturdy construction and spot-wipe cleaning make it perfect for daily use, making it an excellent investment for your kitchen.

Stylish Black Serving Tray with Resistance and Portability

Serving up elegance, this black plastic room service tray is the perfect addition to your dining space. Boasting impressive stability and durability, the tray is BPA-free and safe to use in the dishwasher. Its angled edges and sleek design make it as stylish as it is practical, making it a top choice for anyone seeking a reliable and attractive serving solution.

Rattan Tray with Metal Handles: Elegant Decorative Option

Introducing the Decorative Rattan Tray, a versatile and stylish addition to your home decor. Measuring at 38W x 12D x 2.5H inches, this tray features a rattan construction with a distressed tan finish, giving it a rustic charm. The sturdy handle ensures easy transportation, making it perfect for use on your bed, coffee table, or ottoman. With its long and narrow design, this tray allows you to easily display your favorite decorative items while adding a touch of sophistication to your space. Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your home with the Decorative Rattan Tray!

Threshold Designed Studio McGee Beige Marble Serving Tray

Feast your eyes on this exquisite Marble Tray, meticulously crafted by Threshold in conjunction with Studio McGee. The eye-catching rounded tier design boasts a soothing beige hue that melds harmoniously with any surrounding décor. Effortlessly accentuating the aesthetic of entryway consoles, side tables, or coffee tables, it adds a touch of elegance effortlessly. Measuring 7.3 inches in height and extended to 14.2 inches, the width rests at 11.1 inches. Its versatile function serves as a chic catch-all for valuable items like keys, jewelry, or other small collectibles. This stunning piece demands minimal maintenance; simply use a gentle wipe when necessary to retain its splendid shine. Experience the lavish sensation of genuine marble with every use.

Montecito Decorative Rectangular Tray for Farmhouse to Modern Style

Transform your coffee table or ottoman into a chic and versatile serving station with the Montecito Decorative Coffee Table Tray. Its sleek, matte finish and modern design seamlessly blend with a farmhouse vibe, perfect for showcasing coffee, cocktails, or even breakfast drinks. With convenient champagne gold handles and several color options available, this stunning tray can elevate any space, making it a lovely and practical gift for any occasion.

Buyer’s Guide

A food tray serves as an essential piece of equipment when it comes to serving and carrying dishes in residential or commercial settings. This comprehensive guide will offer insights into the crucial factors of a food tray, as well as advice on how to pick the perfect one for your needs.

Material

The choice of material used for a food tray is vital to its longevity, performance, and aesthetic appeal. Common materials comprise:

1. plastic, which is lightweight and user-friendly for cleaning;
2. melamine, a resilient, heat-resistant material that’s convenient to clean;
3. stainless steel, providing durability and a professional appearance, with an added cost.

Size

A food tray’s size is a significant aspect, taking into account the number of dishes you need to serve, the storage space available, and the ease of transportation. Measure the dimensions of your storage area and take into account factors such as stackability if your storage space is limited. Ensure that the tray’s size is compatible with the dimensions of your serving vessel.

Design

The design of a food tray can influence its functionality and visual allure. Notable features to consider include:

1. the number of compartments for housing different types of food;
2. the shape and depth of the compartments;
3. the edge design and size for comfortable handling and presentation.

Maintenance and Cleaning

It’s essential to take the maintenance and cleaning requirements of a food tray into account, particularly if it’s frequently used. Opt for trays with easy-to-clean surfaces and materials that resist heat. Some designs may feature removable trays or parts, enhancing cleaning and upkeep.

FAQ

What are food trays made of?

Food trays are generally made of materials like plastic, aluminum, or stainless steel. Plastic and aluminum trays are lightweight, easy to handle, and available in various shapes and sizes. Stainless steel trays, while more expensive, are durable, resistant to scratches, and easy to clean. They can also be used for serving hot and cold food items.

Some food trays come with insulated materials to keep hot food warm for extended periods. These trays are especially useful during events, catering services, and when serving large groups of people. It is essential to choose the right material and insulation for your food tray based on the purpose, usage, and environmental requirements.

How should I clean a food tray?

Cleaning a food tray depends on the material it is made of. For plastic and aluminum trays, hand washing with warm water and a mild dish soap is recommended. Avoid using harsh scrubbers or abrasive cleaners, as they may scratch the surface. If you need to sanitize the tray, you can use a solution of one part white vinegar and one part water.

For stainless steel food trays, you can use warm water and mild soap to clean them. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or steel wool, as they can scratch the surface. You can also use a stainless steel cleaner to maintain its shine and remove any stubborn stains. Always remember to dry the tray thoroughly before storing it to prevent any residue buildup or odors.

What are the dimensions of a standard food tray?

The dimensions of a standard food tray can vary based on the purpose and manufacturer. However, a common size for a food tray is 18 inches by 16 inches (46 cm by 41 cm). This size typically accommodates a standard 1/4-sheet pan, which measures 12 inches by 16 inches (30 cm by 41 cm). Smaller food trays, such as 9-inch square or 9-inch round trays, are also available to accommodate smaller serving sizes.

It is essential to choose a food tray that fits well in your storage space and meets your requirements in terms of size and shape. Some manufacturers offer custom-sized trays that can be ordered to meet specific needs. Be sure to check the dimensions of the tray before making a purchase to ensure it is the right fit for your needs.

Can I use a food tray for both cold and hot food items?

Yes, you can use a food tray for both cold and hot food items, depending on the material and insulation properties of the tray. Stainless steel food trays with insulated bottoms are ideal for transporting and serving hot food items, such as casseroles or hot beverages, without losing heat. Aluminum food trays with insulated bottoms are also suitable for this purpose, but they may not retain heat as effectively as stainless steel trays.

For serving cold food items like salads or snacks, any type of food tray made from stainless steel, plastic, or aluminum can be used. It is essential to ensure that the tray you choose is lightweight, easy to handle, and suits the size and quantity of the food you will be serving. Additionally, choose a tray with appropriate ventilation to keep the food fresh and prevent any unwanted odors.

What are some key features to look for when purchasing a food tray?

When purchasing a food tray, consider the following key features for better functionality and convenience: (1) Material: Choose a material that is durable, easy to clean, and suitable for the type of food you will be serving. (2) Dimensions: Select a tray that fits your storage space and accommodates the type of dishes you will be serving. (3) Size: Choose a tray that can accommodate the quantity of food you will be serving, with some extra room to account for serving utensils and other accessories.

Some additional features to look for are (1) Ventilation holes: These can help keep the food fresh and prevent odors from building up. (2) Insulation: For serving hot food items, choose trays with insulated bottoms that help to retain heat. (3) Handle or grips: A handle or grip on the food tray makes it easy to transport and serve food without accidentally spilling any.

Are there any eco-friendly options for food trays?

Yes, there are eco-friendly options for food trays that are made from recycled materials or are biodegradable. Biodegradable food trays, such as those made from corn starch, can be broken down into natural compounds through a microbial process, making them environmentally friendly and suitable for composting.

Recycled plastic or aluminum food trays are also an eco-friendly option. Look for trays that are made from reclaimed materials and have some certification, such as the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or recycling symbol. This ensures that the tray is made from sustainable materials and supports environmentally conscious practices.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ we receive compensation through qualified purchases!