Bottle Coolers & Beer Fridges
Ice Cream Displays
Ice Cream Machines
Chest Freezers
Commercial Freezers
Commercial Fridges
Ice Cube Makers and Flakers
Wine Coolers
Bain Maries
Commercial Microwaves
Commercial Sinks
Commercial Ovens
Fryers and Chip Scuttles
Glass and Dishwashers
Pie Warmers & Hot Food Displays
Pizza Ovens
Water Boilers
Bar Supplies
Bowls & Display Baskets
Cash Registers
Chafing Dish Sets & Fuel
Menus & Boards
Table Numbers & Stands
Salt, Pepper & Spice Mills
Crockery
Cutlery
Glassware
Wine Glasses
Bins
Cleaning Chemicals
GreasePak
Janitorial Equipment
Laundry Equipment
Coffee Machines
Juice Dispensers
Juicers
Drink Blenders
Milkshake Blenders
Slush Machines
Water Boilers
Cookware
Gastronorm Containers
Ingredient Bins
Pastry & Baking
Utensils
Pizza Pans & Equipment
Food Storage
Food Transport & Delivery Bags
Folding Furniture
Garden and Outdoor Furniture
High Chairs
Chairs
Tables
33% OFF
Jarvis
Catering SpecialistJarvis is an AI assistant and may occasionally provide incorrect details. To ensure your equipment fits and functions perfectly, we recommend verifying all critical specifications-including dimensions, power requirements, and compatibility-with our expert sales team prior to purchase.For orders or stock, call 0333 355 0535
How can we help?
Choose an option below
Select an option to get started. We're here to help!
Product Questions
Specs, suitability, features & comparisons
Other Enquiries
Delivery, warranty, invoices & customer service
Olympia
In Stock
Cast Iron Round Eared Dish | 200mm Serving Dish | Commercial Tableware | Olympia FW816
£16.98
/ exc vat
£20.38/ inc vat
- Oven-to-Table Service
- Cast Iron Material
- Induction Compatible
- Eared Handles
Have a quick question about this product?
Ask instantly →
Product Overview
Stepping up your food presentation is a brilliant way to make a lasting impression, and this is where the Olympia FW816 cast iron round eared dish truly shines. Forget plain white plates for a moment and picture your signature dishes arriving at the table with an audible sizzle. This isn't just tableware; it's a bit of kitchen theatre that customers absolutely love, blending rustic charm with professional-grade performance.
Designed for the hustle and bustle of commercial kitchens, this incredibly durable 200mm cast iron serving dish is perfect for everything from individual pies and baked cheeses to sizzling fajitas or shared tapas. Its standout feature is its versatility. You can take it from the hob (including induction) straight to the oven, and then directly to the table, cutting down on washing up and keeping food piping hot from the first bite to the last. It’s a workhorse for gastropubs, bistros, and restaurants that value both style and substance.
Ultimately, this dish is about creating a memorable experience. The authentic, slightly rugged look enhances the food's appeal, while the twin 'ears' or handles make it safe and easy for your team to carry. If you're looking to add a robust, reliable, and seriously impressive piece of commercial cast iron tableware to your collection, this is a fantastic choice that will pay for itself in customer compliments.
Key Features and Benefits
- Oven-to-Table Service: Cuts down on washing up and keeps food hot.
- Cast Iron Material: Provides fantastic heat retention, keeping meals warmer for longer.
- Induction Compatible: Offers total flexibility for use on any modern cooking surface.
- Eared Handles: Ensures a secure and safe grip when moving from kitchen to table.
- Flat Cooking Surface: Delivers an even heat distribution for a consistently cooked dish.
- 200mm Diameter: A perfect size for serving generous individual mains or shared sides.
- Extremely Durable: Resists the chips and cracks common with ceramic alternatives.
- Rustic Black Finish: Adds a classic, authentic charm to your food presentation.
Technical Specifications
- Brand: Olympia
- SKU: FW816
- Material: Cast Iron
- Colour: Black
- Dimensions: 30(H) x 200(Ø) mm
- Weight: 0.99kg
- Capacity: 0.742 Ltr
- Features: Induction Compatible, Oven Safe, Eared Handles
Expert Review and Insights
In today's dining scene, authenticity is king. The Olympia FW816 taps right into the trend for rustic, honest presentation. It has a reassuring heft that speaks to its quality, and its ability to go from hob to table isn't just practical, it creates a moment of drama that elevates the entire dining experience. It's a simple, effective tool for making great food look even better.
Emily Hart – Tableware View Profile →
- Pros: Excellent heat retention means food arrives sizzling and stays hot.
- Cons: Requires hand-washing and seasoning, so it's not a 'fire-and-forget' item.
Case Study: Real Business, Real Results
The Waggon & Horses, a bustling pub in Bakewell, Peak District, wanted to upgrade their presentation for hot appetisers and side dishes, which often lost heat on the journey from their kitchen to the outdoor seating area.
"We switched to these Olympia cast iron dishes for our baked feta and patatas bravas. The difference was immediate. The food arrives sizzling, and customers constantly comment on how great they look. They've really lifted the whole feel of our menu."
Robert Miller – General Manager
The change led to a noticeable increase in sharer-dish orders, contributing to a 20% rise in starter sales within the first three months.
Installation and Maintenance Guide
Setting It Up
- Before first use, give the dish a good wash with hot water and a little soap.
- Dry it immediately and thoroughly – don't let it air dry.
- 'Season' the dish by rubbing a very thin layer of cooking oil (like vegetable or sunflower oil) over all surfaces.
- Place it in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for one hour, then let it cool down in the oven. This creates a natural non-stick layer.
Keeping It Going
- Crucially: Never put it in the dishwasher. This will strip the seasoning and can cause it to rust.
- To clean, use a stiff brush and hot water. Avoid using soap if you can, as it can degrade the seasoning.
- Always dry the dish completely with a cloth or by placing it on a low heat for a minute.
- Before storing, wipe a tiny amount of cooking oil inside to maintain its protective layer and prevent rust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I really use this dish on an induction hob?
A: Yes, absolutely. The Olympia FW816 cast iron dish is fully compatible with induction hobs, as well as gas, electric, and ceramic cooktops.
Q: Is this dish dishwasher safe?
A: No, it is not. Cast iron must be washed by hand and dried immediately to protect its seasoned surface and prevent rust.
Q: Do I have to 'season' it?
A: We highly recommend it. Seasoning creates a natural, non-stick surface that improves with use. It's a simple process of rubbing with oil and heating.
Q: What's the main benefit of cast iron over ceramic?
A: Its two main advantages are superior heat retention, which keeps food hot for much longer, and its incredible durability, making it far less likely to chip or break.
Q: Is it heavy to carry?
A: It has a solid weight of 0.99kg. The two eared handles are designed to provide a secure, balanced grip for safe carrying from the kitchen.
Q: Can I use metal utensils on it?
A: Yes, once well-seasoned, a cast iron surface is very tough and can handle metal utensils without a problem.
Q: How do I remove rust if it appears?
A: Minor rust can be easily scrubbed off with steel wool. Afterwards, simply wash, dry, and re-season the dish to restore its protective layer.
Q: Is there a specific base you recommend for serving?
A: Yes, to protect your table surfaces from the intense heat, we recommend serving this dish on Olympia's 235mm wooden base (SKU: FU294).
The Olympia Promise: Durability Meets Diner Delight
Choosing Olympia isn't just about buying a piece of equipment; it's about investing in reliability for your kitchen. For years, the brand has been a trusted name in the UK's demanding hospitality sector, known for producing no-nonsense, hard-wearing products that stand up to the rigours of daily service. This cast iron dish is a perfect example. Beyond its excellent heat retention, it represents long-term value. Its robust construction means you'll spend less on replacing chipped or cracked ceramics over the years. More importantly, it helps you consistently deliver a superior customer experience. The sight and sound of a sizzling dish creates a memorable, premium impression that justifies menu prices and encourages repeat business. It’s a simple, effective tool for any chef who understands that great service starts long before the first bite.
Explore more from OlympiaWhy Cast Iron's Heat Retention is a Big Deal
Ever wondered why chefs rave about cast iron? It's all about how it handles heat. Think of this dish like a thermal battery for your food. While a thin steel or aluminium pan gets hot fast and cools down just as quickly, cast iron's dense structure absorbs a huge amount of heat slowly and, most importantly, releases it just as slowly. This means that when you pull a dish from the oven, it continues to radiate heat for a long time. That's what creates that famous 'sizzle' all the way to the table and ensures your customer's last bite is almost as warm as their first. It’s this slow, steady heat release that makes it a superior choice for table service.
Who Should Buy This?
- Gastropubs & Country Inns: Perfect for serving signature dishes like shepherd's pie or steak and ale pie with rustic flair.
- Mexican & Tapas Restaurants: Ideal for presenting sizzling fajitas, gambas al pil pil, or baked chorizo sharers straight to the table.
- Boutique Hotels: A great way to elevate in-room dining or restaurant service with a premium, robust presentation dish.
- Delis & Farm Shops: Excellent for serving baked camembert or other hot deli specials in an appealing, table-ready format.
Find equipment tailored to your type of business:
Shop for Cafes Shop for Hotels Shop for Restaurants View All Business Types
Why Choose EasyEquipment?
-
Trusted for 50+ Years
We've been kitting out UK kitchens for half a century—we know our onions.
-
Speedy & Free Delivery
Get your gear fast with free UK mainland delivery, often as soon as the next day.
-
Price Match Promise
Find it for less elsewhere? We'll match the price, no quibbles or fuss.
-
Real UK Support
Got a question? Our friendly, UK-based team is on the phone, ready to help you out.
Ready to Order?
Get ready for standout, sizzling service. Add the Olympia FW816 Cast Iron Round Eared Dish to your basket today and bring some theatre to your tables.