16 Best Chafing Dishes To Buy In 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide
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Chafing dishes are a must-have for food service and catering events, as they keep food warm and appetizing for hours on end. They are also a great way to avoid the stress of last-minute preparations—simply put your food in the chafing dish before your event starts, and you're good to go!
Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or something more luxurious, here is a list of the best chafing dishes available in the market to guide you in your pursuit.
Our Top Picks
 
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Best Value - Super Deal 5-Quart Stainless Steel Round Chafer Buffet Set• Includes 2 complete chafer sets |
Best Capacity - Alpha Living 70014 Chafing Dish• 8-quart capacity |
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Best Variety - TigerChef Chafing Dish Buffet Set• Accommodates various dish sizes |
1. Cuisinart 7BSO-34 Oval Buffet Server
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer was amazed by how these chafing dishes looked shiny and elegant. He was even surprised when he received his order as the stands look better in person than in photos. He was also happy with the free recipe and tea candles that came with his purchase.
Another customer claimed that she was a bit skeptical when she bought the buffet server as she is very picky when it comes to serving ware. But after using it, she was very pleased and planned to order the larger version.
Why We Think It's Great
The Cuisinart 7BSO-34 oval buffet server, made entirely of 18/10 stainless steel, is durable and offers a sleek look that compliments any event. It comes with a glass lid, which adds elegance to any table setting. The transparent cover also provides a clear view of the food inside without removing it.
This chafing dish features an aluminum-coated bottom to ensure quick and even heating. It also allows easy and safe transport with its wide handles. However, measuring only 13.5-inch in diameter, some customers find it too small for large events such as reunions, outdoor parties, and other major celebrations.
Who Should Buy It
The Cuisinart buffet server is a top choice for people looking for a compact yet attractive and durable chafing dish. It is also an excellent option for busy families who love to entertain guests as it is easy to clean, thanks to the dishwasher-safe buffet pan and glass lid.
2. Artisan Stainless Steel Round Buffet Chafer
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer, an event planner, found this round chafing dish beautiful and professional-looking.
Another shopper was impressed by how perfectly the chafer worked when it only cost half the price compared with standard chafing dishes.
He used it for serving Feuerzangenbowle, and it heated the drink in just 40 minutes and kept the temperature for four hours. He also mentioned that the built-in lid cover rack is an "awesome" feature for an easy and neat table setup. One drawback that buyers noticed is that it requires manual washing.
Why We Think It's Great
The Artisan round buffet chafer offers durability and even heat distribution with its high-quality stainless steel construction. The transparent lid features a steam release vent, preventing condensation in the food pan and keeping the contents fresh for longer hours.
Another great thing about this product is the welded rack, which conveniently holds the glass lid whenever you need to open the chafer. Most users find this feature useful as it allows convenience and saves space when setting their tables.
Who Should Buy It
If you are looking for a medium-sized buffet chafer to keep your food hot during private functions, this four-quart chafer is perfect for you. It also adds sophistication to your table without having to expend extra money.
3. Mophorn Stainless Steel Rectangular Chafer
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What Customers Have To Say
One customer was amazed at how easy she set up this chafing dish, even though it came without any instructions. However, another shopper noted that he needed a screwdriver to assemble the bottom plate, as the screws loosened quickly.
Meanwhile, another buyer shared that it was a wise decision on her part to buy this chafer instead of the usual disposable chafing dishes they had used before. She said that it also saved her a lot of money from buying the expensive ones, which "delivers almost the same elegance and sophistication."
Why We Think It's Great
The Mophorn rectangular chafer, constructed of high-quality stainless steel, is sturdy and can hold up to eight quarts of delicious food without any problems. It features two collapsible legs and a stackable design for easy storage and transport. Its highly polished mirror finish provides a simple yet elegant look.
This chafing dish set comes with a food tray made of food-grade material and a bottom tray that supports two fuel holders for consistent heat distribution. It is also equipped with a handle on each side and two built-in hooks to hold the lid, allowing more convenient use.
Who Should Buy It
Including six chafing dishes in each package, this option is ideal for buffets, hotel dining areas, catering, banquets, self-service restaurants, and other public dining events where you need to serve a lot of people.
4. Alpha Living 70014 Chafing Dish
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What Customers Have To Say
A satisfied user claimed that this chafing dish did its job very well. After leaving it on for a while, she said that the food was hot as if someone had just turned off the stove. She showed a photo of the burnt bottom. According to her, it was good as new after washing and drying the chafer, with no scorch marks.
Moreover, a customer commended this chafing dish for its high quality and affordability, emphasizing that it was four chafing dishes for a really low price. His only complaints about this chafer are the sharp edges, which can be a safety hazard, and the handles he thought could look better.
Why We Think It's Great
The Alpha Living 70014 chafing dish offers ample space for food with its large capacity of up to eight quarts. Made of premium stainless steel, it is tough and corrosion resistant, ensuring long-lasting performance. Additionally, it does not require extra time and effort for cleaning and maintenance.
This buffet server can effortlessly keep your food warm with its two fuel holders. It has a foldable frame with a stackable design to allow quick setup, portability, and easy storage. Plus, it is convenient to use, thanks to the two hinge latches for holding the lid.
Who Should Buy It
Each pack contains four complete chafing dish sets, making this chafer a practical choice for people who have catering businesses or those who love to host events. It is also an excellent option for families who like to prepare large meals during holidays.
5. Winware Stainless Steel Roll-Top Chafer
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer was pleased with how elegant this chafing dish looks. She loved the chafer because it could make "any food spread look much fancier." She also mentioned that it was heavy, but it was not an issue for her as it only proves that the product is well-built and sturdy.
Another user shared that this chafer is easy to assemble and take apart. She was pleased with how the roll-top cover worked smoothly without any noise. She also added that cleaning it was pretty simple and that she easily removed the smudges with stainless steel wipes.
Why We Think It's Great
The Winware stainless steel roll-top chafer features a sleek satin finish and sophisticated gold accents in the handles, offering a classic and timeless design that will surely impress your guests. It is made of premium stainless steel material, ensuring durability and sturdiness. This roll-top chafer can hold up to 8 quarts of food.
This chafing dish has a roll-top cover that allows a 90-degree opening for easy access to food. It includes 2 fuel holders to keep the food warm for long hours. It also comes with a full-size food pan and a 2½-inch deep water pan to ensure dripless use.
Who Should Buy It
This roll-top chafing dish is an excellent option for people who are looking for an elegant and sophisticated chafer. However, it is pretty expensive compared to other chafers available. Additionally, this food pan is pretty heavy. It can be challenging to carry around, so it is not suitable for people who have issues with lifting or are looking for a portable chafer.
6. Nova Microdermabrasion Rectangular Chafing Dish
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer said that this chafing dish does what it is supposed to do and that, because of the included lid, it is better than buying aluminum trays. However, she warned that it got water spots when she failed to dry it immediately after washing.
Another shopper commented that this chafer worked well and kept their food warm throughout the event. She also added that it looked fancier than the disposable ones.
Why We Think It's Great
The Nova Microdermabrasion rectangular chafing dish features a sleek mirror finish perfect for elegant events. Made of solid stainless steel, it ensures durability and longevity. The high-capacity food pan meets the food safety standards set by NSF (National Sanitation Foundation), so you can use it without any worries.
This chafing dish set comes with four chafing dishes and all the necessary accessories. Its unique design allows it to hold the lid when serving food, while the stackable configuration ensures easy storing and transporting.
Who Should Buy It
This buffet warmer set is a practical option if you want a quality chafing dish at an affordable price. Also, it will work best for those who have large kitchen sinks, as it will be a challenge to wash this chafer in a regular-sized sink.
7. Sterno 70153 Foldable Frame Buffet Chafer Set
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What Customers Have To Say
A satisfied buyer shared that this chafing dish is just perfect for her needs. What she loved about the product is that it folds for easy storage. She also complimented the included food pans, which allow dual compartments for serving more dishes.
The only downside mentioned by this customer is that the edges are a bit too sharp, cautioning those with sensitive fingers to be careful when handling it.
Why We Think It's Great
The Sterno 70153 foldable frame buffet chafer set features a high-grade stainless steel material, which gives it a professional and elegant look. It also ensures durability and long-lasting performance. This chafing dish has a foldable frame for easy storage and transportation.
Another good thing about this buffet chafer is that it includes two food pans that allow you to serve multiple dishes at once. For added convenience, it also comes with two hooks that hold the lid in place while it is open.
Who Should Buy It
If you are looking for portability, functionality, and versatility, this chafing dish is perfect. It is ideal for catering professionals, event planners, and foodservice establishments. It is also an excellent option for home chefs who want to serve multiple dishes at once.
8. Super Deal 5-Quart Stainless Steel Round Chafer Buffet Set
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What Customers Have To Say
A happy buyer was impressed with how elegant and classy this chafing dish looked. She also liked that it was easy to put together, break down, and clean after use.
Moreover, another customer claimed that this chafer is one of the best chafing dishes she bought. She loved how it looked beautiful on her table and matched her other brass and silver serving ware.
Why We Think It's Great
The deal on this buffet set is too good to be true! You get two complete sets of chafers made of durable 18/8 stainless steel. Each dish comes with sturdy handles and heavy-duty legs to stand up in your kitchen without any problems at all—and they're easy enough for even beginners who love to cook and serve food.
This chafing dish features an elevated fuel stand to allow even heat distribution, ensuring that your food stays warm for long hours. This elevation also minimizes exposure of your table to the flame, which guarantees safe use.
However, some users find this five-quart chafer too small for large events such as weddings or family reunions.
Who Should Buy It
This chafing dish is ideal for catering events, food service, or home use. This food pan is the absolute choice if you are looking for an affordable and reliable chafer set that will get the job done.
9. Galashield Buffet Server
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer claimed that this chafing dish worked great for the taco bar she set for one of her private parties. She added that it is ideal for smaller sides and perfect for any elegant buffet-style setting.
Another shopper said that this chafer was easy and fun to use. She shared how happy she was with the purchase as the product looked attractive and that she preferred to serve food on glass dishes than on metal. However, one user complained that the food trays are too close to the flame, and it may burn the food instead of just keeping it warm.
Why We Think It's Great
The Galashield buffet server features a simple yet sophisticated design that adds class to any table setting. It has a sleek, chrome-plated frame with wide handles to allow hassle-free transport. It also uses two tea-light candles to keep your food warm and ready to eat.
What separates this buffet server from other chafing dishes is the two glass dishes that come with it. Each dish can hold one and a half quarts of food, making it perfect for appetizers, main courses, desserts, or side dishes. These glass dishes are microwave, oven, and dishwasher safe.
Who Should Buy It
This buffet server is an excellent chafing dish for those looking for something simple and elegant. It is also perfect for smaller gatherings as it has a small capacity. Additionally, if you prefer serving food on glass dishes instead of metal ones, this option is the best.
10. TigerChef Chafing Dish Buffet Set
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What Customers Have To Say
One customer said that she appreciates that this chafing dish includes three complete chafer sets. She also commended the manufacturer for the three food pans in different sizes and can holders that came with each set.
Another shopper claimed that this chafing dish looked sturdy enough to last long. She also liked that the fuel holders had adjustable lids to control the heat. However, she cautioned that the sharp edges on the dish could be dangerous if not handled carefully.
Why We Think It's Great
The TigerChef chafing dish buffet set is a versatile and multi-functional chafer that can accommodate various food items. It has an option of 3 chafer quantity sets and 2 insert options, depending on your preference.
This chafing dish features 2 built-in lid hooks for added convenience. The fuel gel holders have adjustable lids for controlling the temperature, while the full-size pan cover comes with a cool-touch handle for safe use. Plus, its collapsible frame allows for compact storage and transportation.
Who Should Buy It
This chafing dish buffet set is an excellent choice for those who want an all-in-one solution. With three complete chafer sets, you have everything you need to get started. Additionally, it is ideal for anyone who wants a food warmer that is easy to clean as it is dishwasher safe.
11. Kook Round Chafing Dish with Glass Lid
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer was impressed with how well-made and elegant-looking this chafing dish was. She specifically loved the lid holder where she could put the lid while getting food. She also noted how it washed up well in the dishwasher.
Another buyer claimed that the chafer was worth the money. She liked that the pans are thick and can hold heat pretty well. She also mentioned that they did not spot and maintained their shiny look after washing and drying properly.
Why We Think It's Great
The Kook round chafing dish features a sturdy stainless steel frame, offering optimum stability while maintaining a sleek, elegant look. It comes with a glass lid for easy viewing of the food inside and a built-in lid rack to keep your table clean.
This chafing dish can hold up to 4.5 quarts of food, making it perfect for home parties, buffets, or potlucks. Also, all trays are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Who Should Buy It
If you are looking for a sophisticated yet reliable food warmer, the Kook round chafing dish is ideal. It is functional, simple to set up, convenient, and easy to clean. Also, it is perfect for home entertaining and can accommodate a large amount of food.
12. Zeny Stainless Steel Chafing Dish
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer liked this chafing dish for its sturdy construction and recommended buying it. Another shopper was pleased that the product looked incredible and worked well, noting that it was worth the money she spent. However, one buyer found the water pan tends to stain quickly from the heaters, while another shopper warned about the sharp edges.
Why We Think It's Great
The Zeny stainless steel chafing dish features a tough stainless steel frame with a shiny mirror finish that looks great on any buffet table. It has a full-size eight-quart capacity that can accommodate a large crowd. Plus, it is dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
This chafer set has four chafing dishes and complete accessories, including a food pan, water pan, lid, and two fuel holders with covers.
Who Should Buy It
The Zeny stainless steel chafing dish is ideal for catering companies, restaurants, buffet halls, and other foodservice businesses. It is also great for those who love to host large gatherings and parties.
13. Proctor Silex Electric Triple Buffet Server/Warming Tray
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer was very pleased with his purchase as it was well-constructed and looked nice. He found this chafing dish to be very useful when they have company. He loved this product because they could use the included food pans or any ordinary plate if they preferred to use their own.
Another user commented that it was a great purchase. She noted that the food pans are larger and hold more food than she expected. The chafing dish also kept the food warm for the duration of the event. However, one shopper said that the warming tray did not get hot enough to his liking.
Why We Think It's Great
The Proctor Silex electric triple buffet server offers its users more options for serving food. You can use the included food pans or your own microwave-safe dishes to hold various food items and keep them warm. Best of all, you can serve skewers, appetizers, or finger foods directly from the warming tray.
This electric chafing dish has three removable, 2.2-quart food pans with transparent lids. Each lid features a spoon slot for serving with ease. Additionally, the warming tray has two temperature settings so that you can adjust the heat according to your needs.
Who Should Buy It
If you are looking for an electric chafing dish that is convenient, this chafer is an excellent option. It comes with three food pans, perfect for serving multiple dishes at once. Also, if you do not like to spend extra time cleaning, this food warmer is for you as it is dishwasher safe.
14. Kitma 8-Quart Chafing Dish
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer claimed that this chafing dish is a "must-have for all party people." He added that it looked great, the size was perfect, and it kept all the food warm without burning them. He also noted that the food did not dry out at the bottom and get crusty around the edges, which usually happened with other chafing dishes he had used before.
Why We Think It's Great
The Kitma chafing dish is perfect for catering events and parties with its high capacity of eight quarts. Featuring a rugged stainless steel frame that folds when not in use, it is both durable and portable. The elevated fuel shelf can accommodate two fuel burners to ensure consistent temperature while keeping the flame at a safe distance from the table.
This chafer comes complete with a full-size food pan, a water pan, two fuel holders with covers, and a lid with a long handle for easy serving. Additionally, keeping it clean is not a problem as the cover and pans are all dishwasher-safe.
Who Should Buy It
The Kitma 8-Quart Chafing Dish is ideal for those who often host large events or cater to many people. It is also perfect for those who want a reliable and portable chafing dish that is easy to use and clean.
15. Sterno Full-Size Buffet Kit
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer said that this chafing dish worked well when he used it, and the heaters lasted for over six hours. His only concern was finding aluminum pans to replace the ones he had used, as the size was different from the ones he could find in the store.
Another user was impressed with how easy it is to use this chafing dish. She just folded it after the party. However, she found the frame a little flimsy, but not so much that she could not re-use it.
Why We Think It's Great
The Sterno full-size buffet kit is a complete solution for serving and warming food. It features a reusable wire rack that folds easily for storage and transport. It comes with two aluminum food pans, but you can also use any standard-sized disposable aluminum pans with it.
This chafer is an excellent way to start your party off right! The kit includes two seven-ounce cans of non-toxic and water-soluble cooking fuel, which means you can use it for up to 2 hours at a time. It also comes complete with a plastic serving spoon and fork; however, it doesn’t include a cover lid.
Who Should Buy It
This food warmer set is an excellent product if you're looking for a budget-friendly, easy-to-use chafing dish. This model can be used by first-time users or people who don't host parties often enough!
16. Restlrious Round Chafing Dish
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What Customers Have To Say
A shopper said that this buffet server looked nice and of good quality for its price. Another customer noted that he loved its round shape, perfect for an appetizer party. However, one user complained that the chafer was not as durable as he expected it to be.
Why We Think It's Great
The Restlrious round chafing dish is a medium-sized food warmer suitable for various dining setups. Its 100% stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the polished mirror finish adds a touch of class to your table setting. Restlrious offers an option of 2 chafing dish quantities depending on your need. Each food pan has a capacity of 5 quarts, which is perfect for small gatherings.
This chafer features two side handles that make it easy to carry from one place to another. It also comes with a water pan, fuel holder, and food pan.
Who Should Buy It
With an ideal size for medium-sized food warmers that are both stylish and functional, the Restlrious food pans are best suited for people who like to host small gatherings. It will make dinner parties more intimate with its excellent performance!
Best Chafing Dishes Buying Guide
Before deciding on which chafing dish to buy, there are a few factors you need to take into account. Here are some tips to help you choose the best chafing dish for your needs.
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Size and Number of Partitions
When it comes to chafing dishes, size is an important consideration. The size of the unit will determine how much food you can fit in it and how many people it can accommodate. If you are catering to a large number of people, then you will need a unit that is large enough to accommodate all your food.
You also need to consider the number of partitions in the unit. For serving different dishes, you will need a chafer with multiple compartments.
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Material
It's important to consider what material your chafing dishes are made of when looking for the best ones. The two most common materials used in this case would be stainless steel and aluminum.
Stainless steel is more durable and easy to clean, but it is also more expensive. Aluminum is less sturdy, but it is more affordable.
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Heating Source
Chafing dishes use either Sterno or electricity to keep the food warm. If you are using Sterno, you will need to purchase the fuel separately.
Electric chafing dishes are more expensive than Sterno ones, but they are much easier to use. However, Sterno chafing dishes are more portable.
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Design and Style
Chafing dishes come in different designs and styles. There are rectangular, oval, and round chafing dishes. Rectangular chafers are best for buffet-style service, while oval and round chafers are best for sit-down dinners.
There are also simple and ornate chafing dishes. It is vital to choose a design that will match the rest of your kitchenware.
Best Chafing Dishes FAQ
1. Which chafing dish is best?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It depends on your needs and preferences! If you want an easy-to-use chafer, you may choose to look into electric models.
A Sterno-style chafer would work well in situations where portability matters more than anything else—they're lighter in weight while still providing great heat. If you want a more stylish chafer, a silver-plated chafer adds some glamorous flair without sacrificing functionality and longevity.
2. Do chafing dishes work?
Yes, chafing dishes work. They can keep food warm for an extended time. Just make sure to follow the instructions given by the manufacturer so they can work properly.
Here are some tips on how to use a chafing dish:
- Preheat the chafing dish before adding food to help keep the food warm for longer.
- Add hot water to the pan before adding food to help create a steamy environment and prevent the food from drying out.
- Cover the food with foil or a lid to trap heat and moisture.
- Use Sterno gel fuel cans to keep the chafing dish warm. Follow the instructions on the can for best results.
- Keep an eye on the water level in the pan. Add more water as needed to prevent the food from drying out.
- When finished, turn off the heat and allow the chafing dish to cool down before cleaning it.
3. What do you serve in a chafing dish?
You can use the chafing dish to serve a variety of hot foods. Popular items include roasted meats, vegetables, pasta dishes, and casseroles. Chafing dishes are also great for keeping food warm at buffet-style gatherings.
When choosing what to serve in a chafing dish, keep in mind that the food will need to be cooked or reheated before putting it in the warmer. The chafing dish will only keep food warm, not cook it.
4. What are the burners under chafing dishes?
The burners under chafing dishes are responsible for keeping the food warm. Most chafing dishes come with Sterno-type canned heat that burns slowly and steadily to maintain a consistent temperature.
Some chafing dishes come with electric heating elements that plug into an outlet and provide even heat throughout the water pan. When choosing a chafing dish, consider how long the food will need to stay warm and what type of event you are serving the food.
Suppose you are serving hot food for an extended time. In this case, an electric chafing dish may be a better option since it will maintain a consistent temperature throughout the event.
Sterno-type chafing dishes are best for shorter events since the heat will dissipate over time.
Conclusion
Chafing dishes are a must-have for any food service, catering event, or even small home gatherings. Not only do they keep food warm and flavorful for hours on end, but they also help to avoid the stress of last-minute preparations.
Simply put your food in the chafing dish before your event starts, and you're good to go! We hope this list has narrowed your options if you're looking for a reliable and affordable chafing dish rental. In this list, we highly recommend the Alpha Living 70014 Chafing Dish because of its durability and high capacity.
If you want a durable stainless steel material with an elevated fuel stand to protect your tables, you can go for the Super Deal 5-Quart Round Chafer Buffet Set. If you're looking for a chafing dish set that will accommodate any size of food, then the TigerChef Chafing Dish Buffet Set is perfect.
Whichever you choose, keep in mind that the best chafing dish for you is the one that will suit your needs and budget.