Kitchen Management

"What are the different types of chefs?" Read on to learn the difference between the various chef titles and the tasks those chefs perform in a bustling restaurant kitchen.

     Sometimes restaurant chefs refer to pans they call steam table pans or hotel pans, even if the restaurant is not in a hotel. A hotel pan is the same as a steam table pan, counter pan, or service pan. They are the large rectangular pans that food is served out of when you are at a wedding reception, banquet, or eating from a buffet. They are not only used for these purposes but are also used in the kitchen, such as to hold ingredients for a line cook. Basically, they are all-purpose pans that can be used for some cooking, storing, holding, etc.

     Steam table pans or hotel pans are usually made out of stainless steel. Some large rectangular heat-proof and food-grade plastic containers might be called steam table pans or hotel pans as well. They come in eight standard sizes, according to length and width.

　　Kitchen floors have a lot to contend with, and when it’s a commercial kitchen the potential perils are compounded. That’s why you have to find a material that is durable, water- and stain-resistant, and easy to clean. When kitchens are visible to the public, the kitchen flooring also has to match or complement the front-of-house flooring and decor. But above all, commercial kitchen flooring must be sanitary and comply with local health and building code requirements.

All those pans are called hotel pans... even the smaller ones. Many of you may think why a hotel pan is called a hotel pan and it's the only one of the pans Why is a hotel pan called a hotel pan in the culinary arts?

　　Flat top griddles and planchas are incredible pieces of commercial kitchen equipment. Whether you’re an artistic chef showing off flashy Teppanyaki skills, or just cooking in the back-of-house, the flat top is a restaurant superstar. It’s easy to keep this kitchen workhorse in great shape with some proper care.