Steam Pans
Steam table pans (also called hotel pans or food pans) are the standard containers used in every commercial kitchen for holding, cooking, storing, transporting, and serving food. They fit into steam tables, chafers, food warmers, prep tables, and walk-in cooler shelving, making them one of the most versatile and frequently used items in any restaurant. Our collection features Winco anti-jamming stainless steel steam pans in all standard sizes, multiple depths, and two gauge options, all NSF listed for commercial food safety.
Sizes
We carry steam pans in full size (20.75" x 12.75"), half size, 1/3 size (12.75" x 6.875"), 1/4 size, and 1/6 size (6.875" x 6.3125"). Full-size pans are the standard for steam tables, buffet lines, and chafers. Half and 1/3 size pans let you serve multiple dishes side by side in the same steam table or chafer frame. Quarter and 1/6 size pans work well for sauces, chutneys, raita, pickles, and smaller condiment portions on a buffet or prep line. Each size is available in multiple depths: 2.5-inch pans hold smaller portions and condiments, 4-inch pans are the standard depth for most entrees and sides, and 6-inch deep pans handle soups, stews, dal, curries, and other liquid-heavy dishes.
22 Gauge vs 24/25 Gauge
We carry steam pans in two weight options. Our 22 gauge (heavy duty) pans are thicker, more rigid, and better suited for kitchens that use pans for direct cooking, heavy daily use, or rough handling. Our 24/25 gauge (standard weight) pans like the full-size 4-inch deep and full-size 6-inch deep are lighter and more affordable, making them a practical choice for buffet holding, storage, and kitchens that go through pans in high volume. Both gauges are made from 18/8 stainless steel for corrosion resistance and long-term durability.
Anti-Jamming Design
Every steam pan in our collection features Winco's anti-jamming stacking lugs. These small raised tabs on the pan prevent nested pans from getting stuck together, which is one of the most common frustrations in commercial kitchens. Standard pans without anti-jam lugs tend to lock together when stacked, especially when wet, forcing staff to pry them apart and potentially denting or warping the pan in the process. Anti-jam pans stack cleanly, separate easily, and save time during busy service and cleanup.
Common Uses in Indian Restaurant Kitchens
In Indian restaurants, steam pans are used for holding curries, dal, rice, biryani, and vegetable dishes on the buffet line. On prep tables, they organize prepped ingredients like marinated meats, chopped vegetables, and sauces for line cooking. In chafer frames, they are the insert that holds the food above the water pan. In walk-in coolers, they store prepped food with lids for next-day service. For a full breakdown of sizes, gauges, and how to choose the right combination for your kitchen, read our guide on steam pan sizes, gauges, and uses explained.
Need pans in bulk? Contact us at sales@nishienterprise.com or call (732) 790-0199 for volume pricing.