You’ll be serving many people when you’re catering, which means you’ll need a serving platter that fits the job. Whether you’re hosting a party or your restaurant is providing the main dish for an event, serving platters should be at the top of your list.
However, before you run out and buy one, it’s essential to consider a few things. A serving platter for one occasion may not be suitable for another.
For example, a hot dish will be easier to transport on a plate with handles, while food presented with a sauce will do better on a deeper plate. There is also style to consider.
Who knew choosing a suitable serving platter came with so many deliberations?
Fortunately, there are plenty of options that will help you pull off your event without a hitch. Here are eight large catering platters:
1. Our Table™ Simply White Rim 18-Inch Rectangular Serving Platter
Available at Bed Bath and Beyond, Our Table offers an entire line of cookware and serving accouterments, including catering platters.
Our Table’s Serving Platter is the first on this list, thanks to its simple style and uncomplicated nature.
Simple but elegant, this platter will go with almost any dish set you already have. However, you can also order dishes to match.
At 18 inches in length, this porcelain serving platter is the perfect size for serving hors d’oeuvres. A subtly elevated rim makes this dish ideal for saucier dishes.
The only drawbacks to this platter are its slightly smaller size and the fact that it’s hand-wash only.
Pros
- Simple but beautiful
- Versatile
- Subtle rim
Cons
- No handles
- Not quite as large as other serving platters
- Hand wash only
2. Oval Platter with Handles from Crate&Barrel
This gorgeous Oval Platter with Handles from Crate&Barrel will be a hit at your event. Its simple design and white finish will make it an attractive addition to any table.
At 21.5 inches wide, there isn’t much you won’t be able to fit on this platter. Made of porcelain and with a depth of about 1.75 inches, it’s sturdy and versatile, opening the door for any creative culinary chef-d’œu·you can dream up.
The handles are incredibly convenient for transporting any food safely from one room to the next. They are also helpful because this large platter can be a bit heavy once you fill it.
Dishwasher, oven (up to 350 degrees), and microwave safe make this serving platter top-notch.
Pros
- Handles
- Depth
- Versatility
- Dishwasher, oven, and microwave safe
Cons
- Heavy
3. Open Kitchen by Williams Sonoma Large Rectangular Handled Platter
This Rectangular Platter by Williams Sonoma has all of the best qualities of an excellent serving tray. Its classic design will go with any dishes you already have, and it’s convenient for serving large meals.
Although this serving tray measures only 18 inches long, it is 3 inches deep, making it a front runner for casseroles, stews, and pasta. Its convenient handles will also help ensure you don’t lose anything along the way.
Made of glazed stoneware, this platter is dishwasher and microwave safe. It’s ideal for catering to large gatherings, during which you need to reheat food quickly.
Although this dish is likely to fit into any set, it is part of a collection. You can purchase its matching companions for a visually pleasing arrangement.
Pros
- Deep
- Handles
- Dishwasher and microwave safe
Cons
- Not oven tested
- Smaller than other platters
4. Gabriella Rectangular Serving Platter
The Gabrielle Rectangular Serving Platter from Pottery Barn will make a beautiful addition to your table without being so ostentatious as to steal the show. This crafted glazed stoneware serving platter is perfect for appetizers, entrees, and desserts.
At 18 inches wide and 2 inches deep, you’ll have no trouble offering up the main dish on this platter. The simple and elegant design makes it easy to fit on a table and serve.
Dishwasher, microwave, and oven safe, this large catering platter is a highly convenient way to present food to your guests. Clean-up is a breeze, and you’ll have no trouble keeping the food warm.
Because this dish doesn’t have handles, it is best set on the table and admired, rather than transporting food from one room to the next.
Pros
- Deep enough for most foods
- Dishwasher microwave and oven safe
Cons
- No handles
1. SMULA Serving Tray
When you need a serving tray for casual occasions, the SMULA Serving Tray from IKEA is a great option. Its attractively opaque design and gently curved sides may not be as iconic as stoneware, but it certainly brings a lot to the table (literally and figuratively).
These affordable trays are versatile and easy to serve, from baked treats to full lunch plates. Measuring 20 inches wide, these budget-friendly and practical serving trays won’t let you down when it comes to the surface area.
Because this platter is made with lightweight materials, you won’t have any trouble transporting it. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality. They are sturdy enough to be reusable and attractive enough to sit on a beautifully arranged table.
A quality product with an excellent price tag– What more could you want?
Pros
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Versatile
Cons
- No handles
- Impractical for formal events or heavy dishes
2. Dream Lifestyle Dinner Plates
Dream Lifestyle Oval Serving Platters can be found at Walmart, making them an affordable and practical option. These stainless steel platters come in various colors, so you can mix and match with your current set or create a whole new look for informal occasions.
At only about 11 1/2 inches wide, this serving platter is best for serving one small dish, appetizers, or cocktails.
These plates’ rolled edges and colorful appearance will look stunning on a themed table. They’re easy to clean, so you’ll find yourself reaching for this convenient option when formal dinnerware isn’t on the menu.
Pick up a few of these high-quality stainless steel platters today. Your guests will love them.
Pros
- Affordable
- Stainless steel
- Lightweight
Cons
- Small for a serving tray
- No handles
3. Wood Signature Serving Tray by Threshold™
Look no further if you want a serving tray with a rustic design and farmhouse feel. This gorgeous Wood Signature Serving Tray by Threshold will look incredible on your table.
This wood serving tray is as stylish as it is functional. At 20 inches wide, you won’t have any trouble fitting all of your snacks, drinks, or large dishes on this platter.
Carved handles make this tray a breeze to carry from room to room. Plus, its raised edges will ensure all of your food stays in one place, and you won’t have to worry about spillover.
This tray is too beautiful to put in the dishwasher, however. It will need to be spot cleaned. Woodenware doesn’t do well submerged in water.
Pros
- Stunning design
- Handles
- Raised edges
Cons
- Spot or wipe clean
4. Fresco Bamboo Large Serving Tray
If you’re an individual or a restaurant looking for a conscientious platter option, the Fresco Bamboo Large Serving Tray is just for you.
Brought to you by Burke Decor, this serving tray is created with bamboo fiber, a highly sustainable resource. It’s also reusable and dishwasher safe, so you know this tray will go the distance and hopefully stay out of the landfill.
At 17 3/4 inches wide, this tray is large enough for any dish you plan to serve. It also has a slightly raised lip to contain any spells that may occur along the way.
Unfortunately, the material in this serving tray is not safe for microwave or oven use.
Pros
- Sustainably resourced
- Various colors
- Large enough for large dishes
Cons
- No handles
- Not microwave or oven safe
5. Serveware, Dublin Rectangular Tray
If you’re looking for a serving tray that will really stand out, you’ll want to consider the Serveware, Dublin Rectangular Tray. Expertly cut glass makes this serving platter a thing of beauty.
Sold at Macy’s, this 16-inch wide platter is ideal for serving cocktails. If you’re looking for a matching set, consider purchasing other Dublin glassware. Just be prepared to share where you got the dish with your guests, as they are sure to comment on its stunning design.
Its ridged edges and handles make it convenient for carrying. It’s a good thing, too, because this tray can be pretty heavy. The extra work is worth it to see this elegant dinnerware on the table.
Select this serving platter if you want to show off your unique style.
Pros
- Gorgeous
- Handles
- Large enough for carrying several drinks or dishes
Cons
- Heavy
Choosing a Platter That’s Right for You
Serving a large party shouldn’t be a headache. Picking out a suitable serving tray for you or your restaurant should be a fun and exciting process. Once you’ve decided the needs of the event you are planning, it’s easy to narrow down which large serving platter will be best.
No matter what you decide, the most important thing about your platter is the food that goes on it. Once you’ve selected your dishes, all you need to do is load them up with your excellent fare.
Pick out one of these superb catering platters today, and enjoy your event!
