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If you run a restaurant, food truck, cafeteria, or catering business, the right food service baskets can make your operation run smoother and look sharper. Think of baskets as the unsung heroes of service: they hold fries, corral napkins, display bread, and keep things tidy when speed matters most. In this guide I’ll walk you through top US suppliers, explain types and materials, and share practical tips so you pick baskets that last and perform.
At first glance a basket is just a container, but in a busy kitchen or front-of-house it affects speed, safety, portion control, and presentation. A poorly chosen basket can slow down plating, cause soggy food, or worse — create a safety issue if it can’t handle hot oil or heavy loads. Choosing the right basket is like picking the right tool for a job: the right size, material, and shape turns routine service into a reliable routine.
There are many places to source commercial-grade baskets in the US. Below I highlight reputable suppliers that cater to restaurants, cafeterias, and food service professionals, along with what they’re best known for.
WebstaurantStore is a go-to online supplier for restaurants seeking a wide selection of food service baskets. They stock stainless steel fry baskets, chrome wire baskets, and woven display baskets in sizes like 10 inches and 12 inches across, plus heat-resistant plastic options. The site is handy for bulk buys — ideal when you need 10 to 50 units for a busy kitchen. Expect product listings that include dimensions in inches, weight limits in pounds, and care instructions.
KaTom focuses on commercial-grade equipment and accessories, including heavy-duty fry baskets and solid stainless baskets that can take the heat. If you need baskets that will see daily use in a high-volume fry station, KaTom’s selection is worth a look. They often list basket baskets designed to fit specific fryers, with dimensions like 8 in. by 5 in. or 12 in. by 10 in.
Restaurant Depot serves independent restaurateurs and small chains. It’s a great place for practical, no-frills options like wire fry baskets, serving baskets, and bus tubs. Restaurant Depot’s backyard of brands typically includes bulk packs so you can replace worn items without breaking the bank. You’ll find baskets measured in inches and capacities also described in gallons or pounds where applicable.
Amazon Business is convenient for one-off buys and rapid restocks. It offers a huge variety from multiple brands: stainless mesh fry baskets, basket inserts, and decorative presentation baskets. If you want 12-inch round baskets for presentations, or a stackable plastic bus tub for bussing, Amazon Business can deliver those options quickly to individual locations.
Sysco and US Foods are foodservice distributors that also offer supplies and equipment. While they’re best known for ingredients, they supply durable baskets suited for professional kitchens, often in quantities appropriate for multi-location operations. If you already have an account, these distributors can combine supply deliveries with your food orders, simplifying inventory management.
Grainger is an industrial supplier that stocks heavy-duty baskets for demanding environments. Think stainless steel perforated baskets for steam tables, wire baskets rated for heavier loads, and high-temp food handling accessories. Grainger’s focus on durability makes it a logical choice when longevity and OSHA-compliant materials matter most.
Wayfair typically serves hospitality and event buyers and has a strong selection of decorative and display baskets. If presentation matters — such as woven bread baskets or lined metal baskets for plated brunch service — Wayfair’s hospitality section combines style and functionality with dimensions listed in inches so you can be sure the basket fits your serving tray.
Different food service tasks require different baskets. Knowing the differences will save you time and avoid mistakes like using a wicker basket in a deep fryer.
Fry baskets are designed to tolerate hot oil and handle frequent exposure to heat. They’re usually made from stainless steel mesh or chrome-plated steel with durable handles. Sizes commonly range from small 6 in. by 4 in. baskets to larger 12 in. by 10 in. baskets for family-style frying. If you fry often, choose a basket with a reinforced rim and a heat-resistant handle that won’t bend under a 5- to 10-pound load.
Bread baskets and display baskets focus on presentation. Wicker, bamboo, and lined metal work well for serving rolls, croissants, or pretzels. Common diameters are 8 in., 10 in., and 12 in. They’re not for direct oven use unless labeled as oven-safe; instead they’re perfect for front-of-house service and buffet stations.
These include small wire baskets used to serve fries, onion rings, and sliders. They’re typically around 6 in. to 10 in. in length and often come with liners like parchment or greaseproof paper. Serving baskets blend function with style and are a favorite in gastropubs and casual dining where handheld presentation enhances the guest experience.
Plastic bus tubs and perforated prep baskets are designed for transport, storage, and rinsing. Bus tubs are often measured in gallons; common sizes are 6-gallon and 12-gallon tubs. Perforated prep baskets made of stainless steel let water drain when washing produce and are easy to sanitize. For back-of-house efficiency, these baskets are invaluable.
Material choice affects durability, maintenance, and appearance. Here are the main options and when to pick each.
Stainless steel is the gold standard for durability and sanitation. It resists rust, handles high heat, and is dishwasher-safe. For fry baskets, look for 18/8 or 304 stainless steel. These baskets hold up well to heavy loads and cleaning chemicals and are measured in inches for width and length, or described by weight capacity in pounds.
Chrome-plated wire is common for fry baskets and serving baskets because it’s affordable and has good corrosion resistance. However, the chrome can wear over time if used continuously in a high-moisture environment. It’s fine for light to moderate use and can be a budget-friendly choice for serving baskets in front-of-house.
High-heat plastics and food-grade polymers are popular for bussing tubs and prep baskets. They’re lightweight, won’t dent, and resist most stains. Plastic isn’t suitable for direct fryer use, but it’s perfect for transport and storage. Dimensions are often listed in inches along with gallon capacity for tubs.
Bamboo and wicker baskets are great for presentation, not for heavy-duty or high-heat tasks. They bring a rustic aesthetic to the table and are often paired with liners. When choosing these, ensure they’re treated for food use and swap liners between services to maintain hygiene.
Picking the best basket depends on your kitchen’s needs, service style, and budget. Here’s a simple checklist to guide your choice.
Measure the service area, fryer, or display tray before you buy. If you need baskets to fit a fryer, check the basket’s dimensions in inches. For presentation, consider a 10 in. diameter basket for bread or a 6 in. by 4 in. wire basket for a single portion of fries. Always leave space for comfortable handling — you don’t want baskets to rub against each other or the fryer sides.
Ask whether the basket is dishwasher-safe and compatible with common sanitizers. Stainless steel and most food-grade plastics are easy to sanitize; wicker and untreated bamboo require more attention. If your operation needs rapid turnaround, prioritize dishwasher-safe materials that won’t warp or corrode after repeated cycles.
Front-of-house presentation assets should complement your restaurant’s style. A rustic cafe might prefer woven baskets, while a modern diner uses wire baskets with branded liners. Remember that presentation also affects perception — a clean, well-lined basket can make a $6 basket-of-fries feel like an artisan dish.
Good maintenance keeps baskets functioning and looking new longer. Think of it as routine care for a tool you use every day.
Rinse baskets immediately after use to remove grease and food particles, then soak in warm, soapy water if necessary. For stainless steel and chrome, use a soft brush to clean the mesh and avoid abrasive pads that can scratch protective finishes. Regular washing prevents buildup that shortens the life of the basket.
Inspect handles, hinges, and welds for wear. If a handle starts to loosen or a weld shows stress, replace the basket before it fails during service. For chrome-plated items, reconditioning with a mild polish can slow corrosion and keep them presentable for front-of-house use.
Sustainability is more than a buzzword — it’s a cost-saver over time. Reusable baskets reduce waste and can be part of a greener service model.
Instead of single-use plastic liners, opt for reusable cloth liners or compostable paper liners that are certified for food contact. Reusable liners can be laundered and reused for months, while certified compostable liners can reduce landfill waste when used correctly.
Spending a bit more on stainless steel or high-grade polymer pays off: fewer replacements means less waste. Think long-term — a stainless basket that lasts five years is more sustainable than three cheap ones thrown away after a year.
Balancing cost and quality is key. Here’s how to get the best value without sacrificing performance.
When possible, buy baskets in multi-packs. Retailers like WebstaurantStore and Restaurant Depot offer bulk sets at lower per-unit prices, which is especially useful for high-turn operations where items wear out faster.
Use premium stainless steel baskets at fry stations where heat and grease require durability, and choose budget-friendly wire or decorative baskets for front-of-house service. This hybrid approach keeps costs down while preserving performance where it matters most.
Food service baskets are small in size but big in impact. The right basket improves service speed, presentation, and safety. Choose materials suited to the task — stainless steel for heat and heavy use, chrome for budget wire options, plastic for bussing, and wicker for presentation. Suppliers like WebstaurantStore, KaTom, Restaurant Depot, Amazon Business, Sysco, US Foods, Grainger, and Wayfair offer reliable options for every budget and service style. Think about size in inches, capacity in pounds or gallons, and how easy the baskets are to clean. With the right strategy, baskets will support your service flow for years, not months.
| Food Service Baskets | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Iraca Palm Bread Basket Primary Color Blue | $ 33,- | |
| Iraca Palm Bread Basket Primary Color Orange | $ 33,- |
