Choosing the Right Materials for Restaurant Food Display Counters

It is common to think extensively before finalizing the restaurant food display counter after it is of utmost importance for your restaurant’s image. It is important for restaurants and all types of establishments in the food service business, like bakeries, cafes, and quick-service restaurants.

Display counters play a significant role in attracting customers with a magnificent food display, as they will spend most of their time either here or at the billing center. A delightful and sophisticated display counter can motivate your customers to purchase more, leading to increased engagement.

However, restaurant counters also ensure that food is stored at the right temperature and in the right surroundings to avoid spoilage. So, are you wondering how you can decide what’s right? This blog has you covered.

Best Materials For Each Restaurant Display Counter Component

 
Let’s look at the best materials for two primary components: basic build material and countertop, so you can make an appropriate combination and choose the best display counter.

1.Basic Material

All the counters have their substrates, and they can be divided into three types:

• Plywood

Plywood is a basic material for restaurant display counters. This material is used because of its strength and durability. The surface of the plywood is a laminate, so it is again strong and suitable for making food display counters.

They are available in many colors and designs, so you can choose what will perfectly complement your restaurant’s interior. Plywood is lightweight, and it gives a more natural, organic appearance, which can be ideal for rustic or casual restaurant designs.

However, it is essential to invest in high-quality plywood because it will have good water/moisture resistance capacity. If your area has high humidity, then it is best to stay away from this material, especially the low-quality ones, because it can delaminate or warp if exposed to prolonged moisture or heat, increasing the maintenance costs.

• MDF

Medium-density fiberboard, commonly known as MDF, is a composite board product produced by combining cellulose fiber and a synthetic resin or a suitable bonding system. This material is strong and stable and does not have grain or knots, which is a common issue with plywood kitchen counters.

Regardless, MDF has a perfectly smooth surface, making it perfect for applying veneers, laminates, or paint. Its uniform texture allows for intricate designs and detailed finishing, and it is also affordable.

However, it is essential to understand that when it comes to strength and durability, it ranks last compared to plywood and stainless steel. It is prone to sagging over time with the load, and repeated assembly/disassembly can cause damage to the overall counter.

• Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is usually the go-to choice for many restaurants and commercial kitchens because of its all-around features. It is resistant to corrosion, rust, and damage from moisture, heat, and chemicals. It can last for decades with minimal wear, and it is a non-porous surface. So, you can rest assured that there will be no bacteria buildup, and your team can easily maintain the restaurant display counter.

Stainless steel can also withstand high temperatures, making it a perfect material for areas near heating elements or where hot food is displayed. The initial costs might be high, but the maintenance costs are less. Its sleek and polished finish adds a professional touch to the counter, suitable for contemporary or minimalist restaurant designs.

2. Counter Top Material

While choosing a counter top material, ensure that it goes with your interior and food service business type. For instance, a sophisticated and elegant marble countertop might look exquisite in an upscale restaurant, but that is good for a tea shop. Here are some materials that you can choose for the countertop.

• Quartz Stone

Quartz stone countertops are a popular idea, as they come in a wide selection of colors and patterns to match any restaurant’s decoration. They are non-porous, making them suitable for storing food, and they are antibacterial and waterproof.

• Granite

Granite is the second most popular countertop material for restaurant display counters. It can bear heavy loads and has lower maintenance costs. It is also highly scratch-resistant, making it easy to clean. Regular cleaning with soap and water is enough to keep the countertop in great condition. Given its looks and properties, it is expensive.

• Marble

The marble is exquisite and gives a sophisticated vibe. However, one should be careful while choosing this material for building a restaurant counter because it is soft and porous, so it can’t bear the wear and tear of daily use. Also, it gets damaged by acidic foods like tomatoes or lemons.

• Laminate

Laminate is a cost-effective alternative as compared to natural stone. It is available in a variety of designs and is easy to maintain. Choosing this material allows you to renovate frequently without increasing the expense. It can be custom-cut and shaped to fit any counter design.

Laminates are generally resistant to stains and are non-porous; however, be careful when putting a hot pot or food on the surface, as it can cause burns or wrapping. Laminate countertops have visible seams, and the edges can peel over time when exposed to moisture or heavy use.

• Artificial Stone

Artificial Stones are the perfect alternative if you have a natural stone-like finish but at cost-effective rates. They are a popular choice because of their durability, aesthetic appeal, and low maintenance requirements. These countertops are resistant to chips, cracks, and scratches and are non-porous as well.

These countertops are available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes. However, they are less resistant to heat and have limited repair options.

Choose the Best Display Counter with Riddhi Display

When it comes to restaurant display counters, there are many options available, like refrigerated, heated, and ambient counters. Besides the material type, there are other factors that one should consider when buying the right restaurant counter, like the type of food displayed, space requirements, volume, lighting, temperature control, and ease of cleaning.

At Riddhi Display, we make it easy for you to get your restaurant’s dream display counter. Visit our website to browse through a vast range of restaurant equipment and connect with our experts for customization services.