A stainless steel worktable is the beating heart of any professional kitchen. Whether you run a restaurant, manage a catering business or just love high-level cooking, the right worktable makes the difference between working efficiently and constantly getting frustrated. Stainless steel combines hygiene, durability and practical functionality in a way that no other material can match. In the hectic hospitality environment, where every second counts and hygiene is paramount, a high-quality stainless steel hospitality work table is not a luxury but an absolute necessity. This investment pays off daily in smoother work processes, easier maintenance and a longer lifespan. In this article, we take you through the most important aspects of stainless steel worktables: from the different types and their specific applications to practical selection tips to help you find the perfect match for your kitchen. We share insights on what really matters when buying professional work tables and how to make sure your investment lasts for years.
Why choose a professional stainless steel work table?
The choice of stainless steel in professional kitchens is no accident. Over the years, this material has proven to be the gold standard for hospitality kitchen equipment, and for good reasons. A hospitality worktable made of stainless steel offers a unique combination of properties that are essential for daily intensive use. The non-porous surface does not absorb liquids or odors, giving bacteria and other microorganisms no chance to settle. This makes stainless steel kitchen furniture the most hygienic choice for food preparation.
In addition, the material can withstand extreme temperatures, from boiling hot to freezing cold, without deforming or damaging. A sturdy stainless steel worktable can withstand years of use, even in the most demanding kitchen environments. The smooth ground surfaces are also easy to keep clean. A quick wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent is often all it takes to get your work surface back in tip-top condition.
Important advantages of professional work tables in stainless steel are:
- Superior hygiene due to the non-porous surface that prevents bacterial growth and meets all HACCP guidelines
- Extreme durability with a life expectancy of 15 to 25 years under normal use, making the investment pay for itself
- Ease of maintenance as stains, fingerprints and splashes can be easily removed without special cleaning agents
- Temperature resistance where you can place hot pans directly on the surface without burn marks or deformation
- Professional look that matches modern kitchen standards and contributes to a streamlined workplace
Types of stainless steel worktables: with or without underhood
When purchasing a stainless steel catering work table, one of the first choices is immediately on the agenda: do you choose stainless steel work tables with undercarriage or do you go for a model without undercarriage? This decision directly affects the functionality and ease of use in your daily kitchen routine. Both variants have their specific advantages and areas of application.
Stainless steel work tables with undershelf provide additional storage space directly under the work surface. This undershelf is ideal for storing frequently used utensils, dishes, cutting boards or small appliances within easy reach. In busy kitchens where efficiency is crucial, this saves valuable time by eliminating the need to constantly run to pantry shelves. The undershelf also adds stability and strength to the structure. Many models have adjustable legs that allow you to adjust the work surface to exactly the desired height, taking into account the height of your kitchen staff.
Stainless steel work tables without an undershelf, on the other hand, offer maximum flexibility. They are perfect when you want to place specific equipment under the table, such as a dishwasher, refrigerator or rolling ingredient container. This open construction also makes it easier to thoroughly clean the floor under the table, which is important for optimal kitchen hygiene. For some tasks, such as kneading dough or rolling out large pieces, the open space can also provide more leg room and freedom of movement.
Specific applications by type of work table:
- Worktables with onderschap are ideal for preparation stations, where dishes, knives and cutting boards need to be immediately at hand
- Models without underseat fit perfectly in flush areas where equipment or waste bins are placed beneath them
- Mobile work tables with ondership offer flexibility for catering locations or changing kitchen layouts
- Work tables without underseat are the best choice when you need to be able to regularly clean under the work surface
- For bakeries, work tables with onderschap are useful for storing dough trays and baking materials
Choosing the right size and configuration
Determining the right size for your stainless steel work table requires careful consideration of several factors. Too small a table limits your workspace and efficiency, while too large a table wastes valuable floor space and impedes walk-throughs in your kitchen. Start by measuring the available space, but remember to take into account walkways and opening spaces for refrigerator and freezer doors.
The standard working height for professional kitchens is between 85 and 90 centimeters, but this can vary depending on the average height of your staff and the type of work being performed. For bakeries with a lot of kneading, a lower working height of 75 to 80 centimeters may be more comfortable. The depth of your work table determines how much working space you have: standard ones range from 60 to 70 centimeters, but narrower or wider models are also available for certain applications.
In terms of length, the range is hugely diverse. Compact models start at 60 centimeters wide, ideal for small spaces or as a complementary table, while the largest versions can go up to 240 centimeters. A wise approach is to map out your kitchen processes: how many people are working at once, what tasks are being performed and how much space does each station need?
Configuration considerations for optimal ease of work:
- Strategically place your worktable between cooling and cooking zones for a logical workflow that minimizes movement
- Provide at least 120 centimeters of width if two people are working at the same table at the same time
- Consider a mobile work table if you need flexibility for different production processes or events
- Combine different heights if you perform both standing and sitting work, or have several employees with different heights
- Choose adjustable legs when you frequently switch between different jobs or when ergonomics is a priority
Find your perfect stainless steel worktable at Horeca Online Store
Now that you know all the ins and outs of professional stainless steel worktables, it’s time to find the perfect match for your kitchen. At Hospitality Online Store, we understand that every kitchen is unique and has its own challenges. That’s why we offer an extensive range of stainless steel kitchen furniture, from compact work tables for small spaces to robust XXL models for large kitchens. Our team is ready to advise you on which configuration best suits your specific situation, work processes and budget.
Whether you choose a work table with undercarriage for extra storage space, a model without undercarriage for maximum flexibility, or a mobile work table for ultimate versatility – with us you will find quality at a competitive price. All the tables in our range are made of high-quality stainless steel that will last for years. We deliver quickly, often from stock, so you won’t have to wait long before getting started. Plus, we offer at least a one-year warranty on all our products, for your peace of mind.
Invest today in a professional stainless steel worktable that will take your kitchen efficiency to the next level. View our complete range online, compare the different models and read the experiences of other hospitality professionals who have gone before you. Do you have any questions or would you like personal advice? Feel free to contact our customer service. We will gladly think with you to find the ideal worktable that perfectly fits your needs, space and budget. Together we will turn your kitchen into an efficient, hygienic and pleasant workplace where you will enjoy working every day.