Handled Wood Trays
Commercial handled wood trays are essential kit for any serious UK restaurant, café or hotel looking to elevate their service style. These sturdy, purpose-built serving platforms combine practicality with natural elegance—perfect for presenting everything from drinks and appetisers to full meals. Crafted from durable hardwoods like oak, birch and walnut, these trays withstand the daily demands of busy service periods. After 50 years in the hospitality equipment business, we've seen how wooden trays complement tableware collections and serving dishes beautifully, while the ergonomic handles ensure safe, efficient transport from kitchen to table—reducing breakages and improving staff confidence during service!
Shop By
-
Bamboo Butler Tray | Wooden Serving Tray | 584mm | Olympia GF204
1.22 kgIn Stock
76H x 584W x 381D mm
Olympia
Durable for everyday use
Bamboo
£28.99 £61.65 -
Room Service Tray | Laminate Tray With Handles | 640mm | Cambro DL157
1.09 kgIn Stock
17H x 640W x 400D mm
Cambro
Lightweight - weighs 30 less than wooden butler trays
Laminate
£35.99 £77.01 -
Room Service Tray | Walnut Laminate Tray | 640mm With Handles | Cambro DL156
1.09 kgIn Stock
17H x 640W x 400D mm
Cambro
Lightweight - weighs 30 less than wooden butler trays
Laminate
£35.99 £77.01
Commercial Wood Trays with Handles for Restaurants & Catering
Brands Trusted by Industry Professionals
Key Features and Benefits
- Durable Construction Crafted from solid hardwoods—stands up to years of commercial use.
- Ergonomic Handles Designed for comfortable grip—reduces staff fatigue and accidents.
- Moisture-Resistant Finish Protects against spills and humid kitchen environments.
- Lightweight Design Easy to carry even when fully loaded—perfect for busy service.
- Easy to Clean Simple wipe-down maintenance—keeps hygiene standards high.
- Eco-Friendly Option Sustainable materials—aligns with green restaurant initiatives.
- Temperature Resistant Handles hot plates and cold drinks without warping.
- Aesthetic Appeal Enhances presentation—elevates customer dining experience.
Essential Buying Considerations
Size and Shape
- Rectangular trays (40-60cm) suit table service—perfect width for navigating between tables.
- Round trays (30-45cm diameter) excel for drinks service—balance weight distribution evenly.
- Consider tray depth (2-4cm sides)—higher edges better contain spills.
Materials and Finish
- Opt for sealed hardwoods like oak or walnut for durability—pairs well with wooden tableware.
- Food-grade finishes essential—ensure they're heat and stain-resistant.
- Choose lighter woods like birch for all-day carrying—reduces staff fatigue.
How Commercial Handled Wood Trays Work
Wooden serving trays might seem straightforward, but there's clever craftsmanship at work here. The design typically features a flat, smooth surface with slightly raised edges to prevent items sliding off during transport. The integrated handles—either cut-out grips or attached wooden handles—are strategically positioned for optimal balance when carrying. Many include moisture-resistant finishes or treatments that repel liquids while maintaining food-safe standards. The wood grain not only provides natural non-slip properties but also absorbs minor impacts that would send items sliding on metal or plastic alternatives—exactly what you need when navigating a packed dining room!
Trusted Insights from Emily Hart
Hospitality Tableware Consultant
8 years experience
"Wood trays with handles aren’t just rustic charmers—they’re practical too! Go for solid construction and a smooth finish so your staff can serve with style and no splinters."
Safety Guidelines
- Check Condition Inspect for splinters or cracks before each service—ensures safety.
- Balance Load Distribute weight evenly—prevents tipping accidents.
- Two-Hand Carry Use both hands for full trays—maintains stability.
- Weight Limits Don't overload beyond capacity—prevents dropping.
- Dry Properly Never leave wet—prevents warping and bacterial growth.
- Avoid Heat Sources Keep away from direct heat—prevents damage and fires.
Top Tips for Using Commercial Handled Wood Trays
To maximise the lifespan of your wooden trays, establish a proper care routine. Hand wash only with mild soap and water, then dry immediately to prevent warping. Apply food-safe mineral oil monthly to maintain the wood's condition and prevent drying or cracking. Train staff to distribute weight evenly when loading and to use both hands when carrying. For extra protection against wear, consider non-slip silicone mats that can be placed on tray surfaces during service.
Benefits of Using Commercial Handled Wood Trays
- Enhanced Presentation Elevates food and drink service—impresses customers.
- Reduced Breakages Cushions and protects tableware—saves replacement costs.
- Efficient Service Transports multiple items at once—speeds up table service.
Did You Know?
- History Wooden trays have been used in hospitality since medieval times.
- Presentation Impact Studies show attractive serving methods increase perceived food value by 15%.
- Sustainability Wood trays from sustainable sources have 70% lower carbon footprint than plastic.
- Investment Return Quality wooden trays typically last 5-7 years in commercial settings—excellent value.
Expert Insights on Commercial Handled Wood Trays
Through our five decades kitting out restaurants, we've seen wooden trays become increasingly popular. 'They're not just practical, they're part of your restaurant's character,' explains Mark, our tableware specialist. 'The right tray elevates your service from functional to memorable—customers notice these details when food arrives.'
- Pros: Practical, stylish, durable, and safer than glass or metal alternatives.
- Cons: Requires proper care to prevent warping—not suited to dishwashers.
Who Needs Commercial Handled Wood Trays?
- Restaurants Perfect for elevated table service—adds rustic or premium touch.
- Cafés Ideal for delivering multiple coffee orders—balances cups securely.
- Hotels Essential for room service and breakfast buffets—professional presentation.
- Bars Great for cocktail and drink service—prevents spills and slipping.
Real-World Success with Commercial Handled Wood Trays
A charming bistro in Bath transformed their service with our handled wooden trays. Previously using plastic trays that looked dated and cracked easily, they switched to oak serving trays with ergonomic handles. 'The difference was immediate,' shares the owner. 'Staff reported fewer wrist strains when carrying multiple plates, and customers commented on how well the natural wood complemented our rustic tableware and menu boards. We've actually reduced breakages by 40% since making the switch—they've paid for themselves!'
FAQs
- Are wooden serving trays hygienic for commercial use? Yes, with proper sealing and regular cleaning, they meet all food safety standards.
- How often should I oil wooden trays for restaurant use? Apply food-grade mineral oil monthly—keeps wood from drying out and cracking.
- Can commercial wooden trays go in the dishwasher? No, hand wash only—dishwashers cause warping, cracking and damage to finishes.
- What's the best wood type for busy restaurant service? Oak and walnut offer the best durability—withstand heavy commercial use.
- How much weight can handled wooden trays support? Quality commercial trays typically handle 5-8kg—enough for multiple plates or glasses.
- Do wooden trays work for outdoor restaurant seating? Yes, but bring them inside overnight—prevents weather damage and extends lifespan.
Looking for Equipment by Business Type?
Not sure where to start? Whether you're running a bustling café, opening a pizzeria, or managing a school canteen, we've made it easy to shop by business type. Explore handpicked equipment bundles and essentials tailored to your industry—saving you time and making sure you get exactly what you need.
Other Categories You Might Find Useful
We’ve selected some closely related categories that might be essential for your setup. Whether you’re expanding your kitchen or just making sure you’ve got everything covered, these links will help you explore more equipment that fits your needs.
Commercial Wooden Buffet Trays for Restaurants & Catering Commercial Serving Platters & Boards for Restaurants & Catering Commercial Serving Trays for Restaurants & Catering Commercial Wooden Boards for Restaurants & Catering Commercial Wooden Chopping Boards for Restaurants & Professional Kitchens Commercial Wooden Spoons for Restaurants & Professional Kitchens Commercial Food Warmers for Restaurants & Catering Commercial Serve Over Deli Counters for Delis & Food Shops
What our Customers Say
'These trays have transformed our breakfast service—sturdy, beautiful and practical!'
J James Head Butler, Country House Hotel, Yorkshire'The handles are perfectly positioned—makes carrying heavy loads much easier.'
M Mia Restaurant Manager, Waterfront Bistro, Bristol
Why Choose EasyEquipment for Commercial Handled Wood Trays?
- Trusted Supplier 50 years supplying quality trays—know exactly what works.
- Fast Delivery Next-day options across UK—get your service sorted quickly.
- Best Price Promise Competitive rates on premium trays—exceptional value guaranteed.
- Expert Guidance Speak with specialists who understand restaurant service needs.
Ready to Explore Commercial Handled Wood Trays?
Browse our extensive collection of commercial wooden serving trays with handles today. From rustic oak to elegant walnut finishes, we've got the perfect trays to elevate your restaurant, café or hotel service—backed by our 50 years of hospitality expertise!
#WoodenServingTrays
- #CateringEquipment
- #RestaurantTrays
- #EasyEquipment
- #HospitalitySupplies
- #TableService
- #WoodTraysWithHandles