10 Best Serving Trays Reviews and Guide | My Chinese Recipes (2024)

Why You Need a Good Serving Tray?

In addition to helping you eat anywhere at home, the serving tray is the best option for serving drinks. It also gives decorative effects when placed on the countertop, bedside, side table, or the coffee table in the living room. They are very functional in social events when guests’ tables have to be filled with edibles.

What You Can Expect From A Serving Tray at Home

Serving trays can be used to serve snacks, afternoon tea, and individual meals. It can hold plates, glasses, cups, cutlery, and any other utensil.

Practical and versatile, they can also have several decorative, organizational, and storage functions. The market offers different models of a serving trays, in different patterns, sizes, and materials. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of the product:

• Pros: First, they are available in different models and materials. There are different models in all price ranges. Also, they are practical, versatile, compact, and easy to store. They can be deployed for professional use in restaurants, for instance, and for social events such as wedding banquets. Finally, they have aesthetic values too.

• Cons: Most models are only usable for individual meals.

Quick Summary

1. Editor’s Choice – Bravi Kitchen 3-Piece Anti-Slip Serving Tray

2. Best Multi-Purpose Serving Tray – Yangbaga Rustic Wooden Multi-Purpose Serving Tray

3. Best Bamboo Serving Tray – Pipishell Bamboo Sturdy Serving Tray

4. Best Sea grass Serving Tray – Ann Lee Design Sea grass Serving Tray

5. Best Plastic Serving Tray – Genrics i BKGOO 3-Set Plastic Serving Tray

6. Best Stackable Serving Tray – US Acrylic 3-Set Stackable Plastic Serving Tray

7. Best Decorative Serving Tray – MAONAME Marbling Rectangular Serving Tray

8. Best Serving Tray With Metal Handles – Home Redefined Decorative Serving Tray With Metal Handles

9. Best Dishwasher Safe Serving Tray – Mueller Austria Dish Washable Serving Tray

10. Best Serving Tray For Gifts – RANDEFURN 7-Set Serving Tray

Top Best Serving Trays Based on Reviews

1. Editor’s Choice – Bravi Kitchen 3-Piece Anti-Slip Serving Tray

Our Editor’s Choice is the Bravi Kitchen 3-Piece Anti-Slip Serving Tray. This tray is available in three different sizes; large, medium, and small. This allows it to serve a variety of functions depending on your needs; it is also resistant to heat.

This 3-piece tray has a silica rubber grip that prevents spills. It is made of long-lasting BPA-free materials, making it safe and free of harmful chemicals. Moving it from one location to another is made simple by its easy-grip handle. This tray can be used to serve snacks, dishes, and drinks at both indoor and outdoor events.

2. Best Multi-Purpose Serving Tray – Yangbaga Rustic Wooden Multi-Purpose Serving Tray

This serving tray set includes a large, medium, small, and four mini trays. These trays can be used for a variety of purposes, including indoor and outdoor events. They can be used to serve beverages, breakfast, coffee, and other foods.

This tray is made of biodegradable paulownia wood, which means that this tray is safe for users and is also built to last a long time.

This serving tray is simple to assemble and has a firm handle for easy carriage. It is also made of lightweight wood, making it easy to move. The tray has a strong structure with tightly screwed edges that keep it from falling apart.

3. Best Bamboo Serving Tray – Pipishell Bamboo Sturdy Serving Tray

The Pipishell Bamboo Sturdy Serving Tray is constructed entirely of bamboo. Its bamboo feature makes this serving tray environmentally friendly. It is completely safe for users, and it also helps to reduce global warming by reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

Moving this lightweight tray is super easy thanks to its easy-grip handle. It has very strong raised edges that prevent food from falling out. It also has a water-resistant smooth surface.

This serving tray is not only safe, but also very durable; this because it is made of high-quality bamboo. This tray can be used to serve drinks, fruits, and vegetables. It can also be used as storage for books, Jewries, makeup, and many more.

4. Best Sea grass Serving Tray – Ann Lee Design Sea grass Serving Tray

The Ann Lee Design Sea grass Serving Tray is made with 100% natural materials. It is made with a combination of Sea grass and bamboo. These materials are biodegradable and sustainable, implying that they are very safe to use.

This handcrafted serving tray has a traditional look, making it ideal for serving family and friends. It has a handgrip that makes mobility easy. This tray can be ideally used for picnics. This tray can conveniently hold a weight of 4kg without deforming.

Although this tray is handcrafted, it is very strong and can last for a long time. It is about 13.8 inches wide and can accommodate a large portion of food. This serving tray is lightweight, easy to clean, and doesn’t occupy much space.

5. Best Plastic Serving Tray – Genrics i BKGOO 3-Set Plastic Serving Tray

The Genrics i BKGOO 3-Set Plastic Serving Tray is made with BPA-free plastic. It has a smooth melamine surface which makes cleaning super easy. This food tray is used for both indoor and outdoor purposes.

Because this tray is plastic, the chances of breakage are very minimal. This tray is also lightweight and can accommodate multiple foods. In addition, The Genrics i BKGOO 3-Set Plastic Serving Tray is dishwasher-friendly.

You can save a great amount of space with this serving tray; it is stackable which means you can easily get it out of sight when it is not needed. It also comes with a free replacement guarantee; this guarantee comes in handy in cases where the trays are damaged upon delivery.

6. Best Stackable Serving Tray – US Acrylic 3-Set Stackable Plastic Serving Tray

The US Acrylic Stackable Plastic Serving Tray is great for the same spaces. It is stackable; this goes a long way to help in space management. This tray is made with plastics, which are free from harmful chemicals, hence this tray safe to use.

This tray can be handled by kids as well because it isn’t made of glass, and chances of breakages are minimal. This easy-to-handle tray is lightweight as well, moving it about is completely stress-free.

The edge of this tray is raised and reduces the chances of food falling out of the tray. This reusable tray has a smooth surface which makes cleaning and washing very easy. Purchasing this tray is also risk-free as it comes with a 30-day refund and return policy.

7. Best Decorative Serving Tray – MAONAME Marbling Rectangular Serving Tray

The MAONAME Marbling Rectangular Serving Tray is made with marbling gold plates which makes it great for a decorative display. It can also be used to transport items from place to place and for storage as well.

With its grip handles moving it around is simplified, and the edges of this tray are raised to prevent spillage. This tray is made with high-quality polypropylene which ensures it lasts for a long time.

Asides from food, this tray can be used to transport and store the following; jewelry, remote control, books, decorative plants, keys, cards, and cosmetics. It can be used in restaurants, living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms.

8. Best Serving Tray With Metal Handles – Home Redefined Decorative Serving Tray With Metal Handles

The Home Redefined Decorative Serving Tray With Metal Handles has a fancy metal handle, giving you a better grip on the tray. This tray is great for outdoor and indoor use; it can be used at home, offices, and other outdoor events.

This tray isn’t just good for serving food; it can also be used for decoration. It can be used to decorate dining tables, living rooms, kitchen counters, and coffee tables. This tray can also be used for storage purposes; it can be used to store keys, towels, makeup, toiletries, etc.

The edges of this tray are raised in a way that prevents any form of spillage. It is also made with good quality materials that ensure it is used for a long time without spoilage.

9. Best Dishwasher Safe Serving Tray – Mueller Austria Dish Washable Serving Tray

With the Mueller Austria Dish Washable Serving Tray, you don’t have to stress over manual washing. Unlike most trays that can get damaged when washed with a dishwasher, this tray is dishwasher-friendly,

This tray is multifunctional, it has a reversible feature, when reversed it can be used as a dish drying rack. It has raised edges that prevent spills. This tray can also be used for storing items like keys, cosmetics, etc.

This lightweight tray has rubber bottom feet which ensure it doesn’t slip and fall. These rubber bottom feet also leave your table scratch-free. This tray is made with premium quality materials which makes it both safe and durable.

10. Best Serving Tray For Gifts – RANDEFURN 7-Set Serving Tray

The RANDEFURN 7-Set Serving Tray has amazing qualities which is why it is a perfect fit for a birthday, mother’s day, father’s day, or anniversary gift. This 15.5-inch wide tray consists of six small trays which are ideal for serving snacks and other small chops. It is perfect for both indoor and outdoor events.

The tray has a firm handle which aids easy carriage. This lightweight tray is small and doesn’t occupy a lot of space; this makes it ideal for small spaces.

Using this tray is very easy; it is very easy to clean, and it is lightweight so moving it around is stress-free. There are no risks involved in purchasing this tray; the seller offers a free replacement or refund if the tray is damaged upon delivery.

7 Things to Consider Before Buying a Serving Tray

Best of all, you can find various models, in varying designs and materials perfect for every situation. Check out right here some of the best tips and criteria which will help you get the best serving tray.

1. Which Material Should You Choose?

Wood Serving Tray

If you like to have tea, coffee, or breakfast in bed, this is the ideal choice. If it has a support base, it will be even better. This way, you can avoid spill accidents and the risk of staining the sheet with liquids. The most used hardwood materials, especially for tea trays, are walnut and cherry. If you want a contemporary tray, choose a teak or bamboo-made serving tray.

Vintage or Antique Wooden Trays

Serving trays made of wood can be classified according to the time they’re made. Asides from the contemporary ones, you can also find antique and vintage models. The antique and vintage models are suitable for rustic decor. However, the antique models are the most expensive, even though they were not designed for everyday uses. If you want a more reliable and functional model, look for a sturdy and new wooden tray.

Handmade or Machine-Made Wooden Serving Trays

Wooden serving trays are either handmade or made with machines. Handmade models are more expensive than machine-made models. The former is more unique. Depending on the tray’s maker, the handmade models can sport earth-friendly or organic finishing products. Local woods can also be used in their making.

Porcelain Serving Trays

Do you need a tray for serving snacks, coffee, or tea at a meeting? In this case, the porcelain model is modern and perfect to bring the elegance that the moment demands. It leaves the environment much more beautiful. You just need to be careful not to drop it, since they are more delicate.

Stainless Steel Serving Trays

Stainless steel is one of the best materials for serving trays. In addition to being highly durable, it has a wonderful neutral color. It also makes the decoration of any place much more sophisticated. You can use the trays of this material to serve a cup of coffee after dinner. It is available in modern versions, innovations, and colorful designs. Hence, it is perfect if you need to have coffee in bed or a snack in front of the TV.

2. What’s the Standard Size of Serving Trays?

In general, serving trays are large enough to accommodate individual meals. The standard dimensions of the interior of the classic rectangular serving tray are around 19 x 13 inches. This size is also the most common dimension for a placemat. Serving trays with handles meanwhile may measure 17 x 13 inches.

However, there are versions with all measures, in dimensions larger or much smaller than the standard. For round trays, anything around 12 to 15 inches in diameter isn’t out of the ordinary. Choose according to your need and the type of intended use for the tray. And remember: models that are too big can be difficult to load and store.

In addition, the dimensions of the trays have to be small to be transported comfortably. If the diameters or dimensions are more than the standard, their ease of mobility will reduce. However, for traditional or classic styles, they are the most useful models, especially for visual accommodation with the environment.

3. Colors and Details

Although colors and other details have purely decorative purposes, some can influence the functionality of the serving tray. Prefer models with a textured inner surface. This ensures more firmness to the dishes, utensils, and food placed on the object.

4. Choosing Models With Handles and Frames

In addition to the feet, serving trays can have varied structures such as raised edges. These help to limit the items inside the tray, preventing them from slipping or falling down the sides.

Handles are also important structures. Notched or detached from the edges, they provide greater ergonomics. These make it easier to load and move the full tray. What’s more? Serving trays with handles are super decorative, especially when they are made of wood.

5. The Tray Designs: Rectangular, Round, or Square Serving Tray

The rectangular serving tray models are the most common you can find. It is functional from the corners to the center. Others, such as circular or oval trays, have limitations on the edges. This is especially when it comes to moving plates or other objects with edges. Choose a square serving tray over a circle. Those small spaces that are unused and leftover are precisely those that are wasted in these cases.

The least common, but very attractive are the triangular-shaped trays. These do waste space a lot. But visually, they have the dynamism that fits wonderfully well in every modern environment. Opt for the triangle model only if you already have another and you only want it for special moments. If it is about functionality, it is better to have another option at hand.

6. Choosing According to the Intended Use

The ideal model of the serving tray will vary according to the user and the intended use of the product. Some differences between the models, however, can increase the versatility of the product.

Trays with foldable feet, for example, perform all the functions that a conventional tray does. However, it has the advantage of allowing the tray to be positioned close to the user. You can have them on the bed, sofa or even on the floor. There’s no need to hold it in place with the lap or hands. It’s also suitable to offer meals for children in front of the TV, instead of using a small table.

7. Serving Tray With Foldable Legs or Not?

The serving tray is a type of tray that usually has an adaptation for more practicality. As mentioned earlier, it can be used on the bed or in another type of environment that is not entirely flat. Made of different materials, the serving tray can have retractable or foldable feet. These can be positioned on the user’s lap when leaning against the bed or sofa. It is also ideal for an on-the-go serving of snacks and other small meals.

Meanwhile, when the legs are folded, they can serve as conventional trays. These models are simple in design. Check out the comparison between the two tray models:

No matter how simple, every meal has a special flavor if it has a whimsical presentation. Check out some tips to assemble a breakfast tray to fill your eyes:

• Bet on small, light bulky dishes and containers. An over-filled tray may look cluttered.

• Include small amounts of each food to ensure a variety of options and flavors.

• Place items that are without packaging, including clean or cut fruits on the tray, all ready for consumption.

• Add decorative details: flowers, petals, napkin rings make all the difference.

• Do not overfill glasses, jars or cups, to avoid spilling liquid on the tray.

Conclusion

Serving trays are traditionally known to be used for serving food and drinks. However these trays are multi-functional, most are used for storage purposes to help you tidy your space. Serving trays are also used for decoration.

Having provided our best 10 Serving Trays to make your purchase easy, our Editor’s Choice is the Bravi Kitchen 3-Piece Anti-Slip Serving Tray. This tray has an amazing anti-slip technology that prevents slippage. The RANDEFURN 7-Set Serving Trayis a great gift tray to consider. The US Acrylic Stackable Plastic Serving Trayis great for small spaces because of its stackable feature.

Purchasing a serving tray is as important as choosing the correct dishes or the type of glassware. Wood, straw, stainless steel, porcelain, and natural or artificial fibers are among the most used materials for serving trays. The choice of material is very personal. But a good tip is to choose a durable and simple-to-clean material. Ensure they match well with the decor of your kitchen or other rooms they’ll be displayed. It adds decorative values when displayed with its contents. These decorative effects are further enhanced when placed on a countertop, end table, or side table in the bedroom or living room.

For more functional but less aesthetic qualities, choose models with foldable legs. Although, you can find those which have a blend of these qualities. The form of design doesn’t really determine the quality you get. Whether you choose round, oval, square, or rectangular serving trays; this is down to personal choice or taste.

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