Food Pans

Stainless steel commercial food pans – also called steam table pans or hotel pans – are the backbone of prep, holding and service in almost every kitchen. Babak Food Equipment offers Winco food pans in standard full, half, third and smaller sizes for restaurants, cafeterias, caterers, buffets, hotels and institutions across Vancouver and British Columbia. The same pans move from the walk-in to the oven and the steam table, so the right sizes keep your line working together.
Types of food pans
Full-size and half-size pans
Full and half pans are used for cooking, holding and serving larger batches in ovens, steam tables, hot food wells and food holding cabinets.
Fractional pans
Third, quarter, sixth and ninth pans fit side by side in the same opening – ideal for sandwich and pizza prep tables, salad bars and topping rails.
Depths and lids
Most pans come in shallow, medium and deep versions, typically about 2½”, 4″ and 6″. Solid, slotted and notched covers keep food protected while leaving room for a serving spoon.
How to choose food pans

Size to the opening: confirm whether your steam table, prep rail or holding cabinet takes full-size pans or fractional sizes.
Depth for the job: shallow pans hold heat evenly for proteins; deeper pans suit soups, sauces and toppings with high turnover.
Gauge and durability: heavier-gauge stainless resists dents and warping in daily use, while lighter pans are easier to handle.
Anti-jam design: pans with anti-jam corners separate easily when stacked and are quicker to clean.
Buy enough to rotate: plan extra pans so a clean set is always ready while others are in use or in the dishwasher.

Why buy your food pans from Babak Food Equipment?
With more than 20 years in business and a 4.9★ Google rating from 380+ reviews, our team can help you match pan sizes to your steam tables, prep tables and holding cabinets and plan the larger equipment around them. Delivery and installation options are available across BC – details and costs are discussed when you order. Also see our commercial cookware and kitchen supplies.
Food pan sizes at a glance
Pan sizeApproximate dimensionsCommon useFull sizeAbout 12″ × 20″Ovens, steam tables, cateringHalf sizeAbout 12″ × 10″Hot holding, mains and sidesThird sizeAbout 12″ × 7″Prep rails, sidesSixth / ninth sizeAbout 6″ × 7″ / 4″ × 7″Toppings, garnishes, sauces

Frequently asked questions
What are commercial food pans used for?
They are used to prepare, cook, store, transport and serve food. Standard sizes let the same pan move between refrigeration, ovens and hot holding without transferring food.
What is the difference between a steam table pan and a hotel pan?
They are generally the same thing. “Hotel pan”, “steam table pan” and “food pan” are all common names for standard-size stainless pans.
Can stainless food pans go in the oven?
Yes. Stainless steel pans can be used in ovens and steam tables, and they are also suitable for cold storage. Plastic pans are better kept for cold use unless rated for heat.
Availability, pricing, warranty terms, delivery and installation are confirmed at the time of purchase – request a quote on any model or call our team at (604) 566-9747.