Plate Warmers
A plate warmer is a compact cabinet or drawer that stores crockery at a steady warm temperature so hot food isn’t served onto cold plates, a small-footprint essential for restaurants, hotels and pub kitchens wanting consistent plate temperature without the space needed for a full hot cupboard. Capacity (typically 30-120 plates) is weighed against available under-counter or back-of-house space.
Key specifications
Expect 304 stainless steel construction, thermostatically controlled dry heat rated 0.3-1.5kW, single-phase 13A supply, digital or dial controls holding 30-70°C, and either freestanding cabinet or drop-in drawer formats. Warranty is typically 1-2 years parts and labour.
Plate Warmers — FAQs
What temperature should a plate warmer be set to?
Most plate warmers run between 30°C and 70°C — warm enough to stop food cooling rapidly on contact, but not so hot that staff can’t safely handle the plates when serving.
Plate warmer or heated plate dispenser — what’s the difference?
A plate warmer simply keeps a stack of plates warm in a cabinet or drawer for staff to lift out manually; a heated plate dispenser adds a self-levelling spring mechanism that pushes each plate up to counter height automatically as they’re used.
Brands typically found in this category include Parry, Buffalo and Roller Grill for plate warming cabinets and drawers, with Hatco also represented, suited to restaurants, hotels and pub kitchens.