Best Commercial Cold Pans of 2026

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 7, 2026

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Commercial cold pans are a must-have for any foodservice establishment that serves cold dishes. These pans are designed to keep food at the perfect temperature for extended periods while maintaining its quality and freshness. They come in various sizes and configurations, including drop-in, countertop, and mobile units, to fit any kitchen's needs. Made of durable stainless steel, commercial cold pans are easy to clean and sanitize, ensuring food safety and hygiene. With their sleek and modern design, these pans are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, making them an excellent addition to any kitchen.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Carlisle CM104902 Coldmaster Insulated Food Pan Cover #TOP 1
Carlisle CM104902 Coldmaster Insulated Food Pan
ftb score rating icon 9.8
HUBERT 1/2 Size Black Melamine Food Pan Cover #TOP 2
HUBERT 1/2 Size Black Melamine Food Pan
ftb score rating icon 9.7
CFS CM104202 Coldmaster Full Size Insulated Cold Pan Holder Cover #TOP 3
CFS CM104202 Coldmaster Full Size Insulated Cold Pan Holder
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Commercial Cold Pans

#TOP 1

Carlisle CM104902 Coldmaster Insulated Food Pan

CM104902
White
Full-Size
Carlisle CM104902 Coldmaster Insulated Food Pan Cover
Carlisle FoodService Products CM104902 Coldmaster 6" Deep Insulated Food Pan with Organizer, Full-Size, White

The Carlisle CM104902 Coldmaster Insulated Food Pan maintains temperatures of 40 degrees F or lower for eight hours, making it ideal for front and back-of-house use. Its minimalist design fits in standard size food pan templates, and it eliminates the need for inconvenient and unsanitary ice baths. Additionally, it is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

What We Like
Maintains temperatures of 40 degrees F or lower for eight hours
Minimalist design ideal for front and back-of-house use
Eliminates the need for inconvenient and unsanitary ice baths
Fits in standard size food pan templates
Dishwasher safe
#TOP 2

HUBERT 1/2 Size Black Melamine Food Pan

H0030-BLACK
Black
HUBERT 1/2 Size Black Melamine Food Pan Cover
HUBERT Food Pan 1/2 Size Black Melamine - 10 3/8 L x 12 3/4 W x 2 1/2 H

The HUBERT Melamine Food Pan is made from a tough melamine material that stands up well to daily use, making it a reliable choice for your kitchen. This pan can handle heat up to 240 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can safely clean it in the dishwasher without worry. Its sturdy build ensures it lasts a long time, saving you money on replacements. The pan’s design is perfect for keeping food cold and ready to serve, making it a practical addition for busy commercial kitchens or catering events. You’ll appreciate its durability and ease of care when you use this pan regularly.

What We Like
Durable melamine material
Heat resistant up to 240°F
Dishwasher safe
Long service life
#TOP 3

CFS CM104202 Coldmaster Full Size Insulated Cold Pan Holder

CM104202
White
Full Size
CFS CM104202 Coldmaster Full Size Insulated Cold Pan Holder Cover
Carlisle FoodService Products CM104202 Coldmaster Full Size Insulated Cold Pan Holder, 24.1 Quart Capacity, 6" Deep, White

The CFS CM104202 Coldmaster Full Size Insulated Cold Pan Holder is a white plastic pan holder with a 24.1-quart capacity and 6" depth that provides refrigerant gel insulation to keep food cool without the need for an ice bath. The ABS plastic housing is strong and resistant to heat, impact, and abrasions. The refrigerant gel is enclosed in a bag between the ABS walls for leak resistance. The gel can be frozen for eight hours and help maintain food temperatures of 40 degrees F for up to eight hours. It's NSF listed, dishwasher-safe, and BPA-free.

What We Like
Provides refrigerant gel insulation to keep food cool without an ice bath
Strong and resistant to heat, impact, and abrasions
Gel can be frozen for eight hours and maintain food temperatures of 40 degrees F for up to eight hours
#TOP 4

Carlisle CM104502 Coldmaster Coldpan

CM104502
White
Third Size
Carlisle CM104502 Coldmaster Coldpan Cover
Carlisle FoodService Products CM104502 7.5 Qt. Coldmaster Deep Third-Size Long Coldpan

The Carlisle Coldmaster Coldpan is designed to keep your food cool without the mess of ice. Its plastic holder features special refrigerant gel insulation that you can freeze for at least eight hours. This ensures your food stays at a safe temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit for up to eight hours. The durable ABS plastic housing not only resists heat and impact but also protects against abrasions. Additionally, the gel is safely enclosed to prevent leaks, making it a reliable choice for any commercial kitchen.

What We Like
Effective food temperature control
Durable ABS plastic construction
Leak-resistant gel insulation
Dishwasher-safe and BPA-free
#TOP 5

Cambro 26CF148 Cold Pan

26CF148
White
1/2 X 6
Cambro 26CF148 Cold Pan Cover
Cambro 26CF148 Food Pan 1/2 X 6" Coldfest White Case of 1

The Cambro Cold Pan is designed to keep your food chilled at safe temperatures, staying at or below 41°F (4°C) without the need for ice. You can freeze it upside down for eight hours, allowing you to fill it with pre-chilled ingredients for maximum freshness. This pan effectively insulates contents for up to six hours, making it ideal for storing dairy, salads, and condiments. With its durable ABS shell, you can trust that this pan will withstand the rigors of a busy kitchen while maintaining your food's quality.

What We Like
Ice-free cooling
Long-lasting insulation
Durable construction
Ideal for various foods

Mophorn 4-Pack Hotel Pan with Lid

4 Pack Hotel Pan 4" Deep
3.7" Deep - 4 Pack
1/1 Size
Mophorn 4-Pack Hotel Pan with Lid Cover
VEVOR 4 Pack 1/1 Size Stainless Steel Hotel Pans,Full Size 4 Inch Deep 0.8mm Thick Anti Jam Commercial Food Pans with lid,for Steam Tables, Restaurants, 20.8 x 13 x 4 inch.

The Mophorn 4-Pack Hotel Pan with Lid is made of durable stainless steel material with a polished mirror design, featuring superior heat conductivity and preservation, large capacity, easy cleaning, and considerate design. The hotel pan can hold and heat food evenly, and withstands temperatures of up to 932 Fahrenheit. The rounded corners and wide crimping design provide secure and comfortable holding. This versatile pan is suitable for storing hot or cold food and can be used in the freezer, oven, steam table, and chafing dishes, perfect for preparing big family meals like lasagna, chicken, brownie, ribs, and casserole.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel material
Superior heat conductivity and preservation
Large capacity for high-volume buffet service
Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
Versatile for storing hot or cold food and various cooking methods
#TOP 7

Carlisle CM110003 Coldmaster Food Pan

CM1100-03
Full Size
Carlisle CM110003 Coldmaster Food Pan Cover
Carlisle FoodService Products CM110003 Coldmaster Plastic Standard Full-Size Food Pan, 15 qt. Capacity, 20.68" x 12.72" x 6.40", Black

The Carlisle Coldmaster Food Pan is designed to keep your food fresh and cold for hours thanks to its insulated, gel-filled walls. This means you won’t need to deal with messy ice baths, making serving and cleanup easier. With a roomy 14-quart capacity, it’s perfect for holding sides, main dishes, or desserts during busy meal times. The pan also features smooth corners that help reduce food waste by making it easier to scoop out every bit, and they simplify cleaning so you can spend less time washing up and more time enjoying your meal service.

What We Like
Insulated gel-filled walls
No ice baths needed
Large 14-quart capacity
Smooth corners for easy cleaning
#TOP 8

Tablecraft Half-Long Cooling Plate

CW60103
21" x 6.4" x 1.5"
Tablecraft Half-Long Cooling Plate Cover
TableCraft CW60103, Stainless Steel Cooling Plate, 21" x6-3/8 x1-1/2, Half Long Size, Hand Wash, Keeps Food Cold Up to 3 Hours, Ideal for Buffet and Catering Displays

The Tablecraft Cooling Plate is an essential tool for keeping your food items fresh and chilled during events. With versatile sizes available, you can easily choose the one that fits your catering needs, whether you're hosting a buffet or a café service. Its durable stainless steel construction ensures that it withstands commercial use while maintaining a sleek appearance. Designed for a variety of foods, this cooling plate is perfect for desserts, seafood, and beverages, helping you present your dishes beautifully while keeping them at the right temperature. Plus, its smooth surface makes cleanup a breeze, adding convenience to your busy kitchen.

What We Like
Versatile sizes for different settings
Durable stainless steel material
Maintains ideal food temperature
Easy to clean and store
#TOP 9

Cambro Coldfest 66CF110 Food Pan 1/6 Size

66CF110
Black
Case of 1
Cambro Coldfest 66CF110 Food Pan 1/6 Size Cover
Cambro 66CF110 Food Pan 1/6 X 6" Coldfest Black Case of 1

The Cambro Coldfest Food Pan helps you keep your food chilled safely without needing ice. You can freeze the pan upside down for eight hours, then fill it with pre-chilled items, which makes it perfect for keeping food cold during busy service times. Its 1/6 size is designed to insulate your food for up to six hours, ensuring freshness and safety. The pan’s durable ABS shell protects it from impacts, while the non-toxic gel inside keeps your food cold reliably. With the Cambro Coldfest Food Pan, you get a convenient and safe way to maintain proper food temperatures during service.

What We Like
Ice-free chilling
Long freeze time
Up to six-hour insulation
Durable impact-resistant shell
Non-toxic refrigerant gel
#TOP 10

ZeroPone 1/2 Size 4" Deep Stainless Steel Hotel Pans 4 Pack

ZPSYCP1/2
4" Deep 4 Pack
1/2 Size
ZeroPone 1/2 Size 4" Deep Stainless Steel Hotel Pans 4 Pack Cover
ZeroPone 4 Pack Hotel Pans with Lids, 1/2 Size 4" Deep Steam Table Pans, Stainless Steel Food Pans 22 Gauge Anti Jam 12.8" L x 10.4" W Commercial Food Storage Containers

The ZeroPone Stainless Steel Pans offer a sturdy build with durable, heat-resistant, and rust-proof stainless steel, ensuring they last through heavy use without warping. With a generous 6.5-liter capacity per pan, you can easily prepare large meals for family gatherings or special occasions. The thoughtful design includes rounded corners and smooth edges that protect your hands from scratches, making handling safer and more comfortable. Plus, the polished mirror finish not only looks professional but also makes cleaning a breeze, whether by hand or in the dishwasher, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Large 6.5L capacity
Safe rounded corners
Easy-to-clean polished surface
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many people does 1 hotel pan feed?

A full-size hotel pan, measuring 12” x 20”, can hold around 8-9 quarts of food. This translates to approximately 50-60 servings per pan, based on standard-sized portions. It is important to consider the serving size and the appetites of the individuals when determining the number of people a hotel pan can feed.

2. How many people will a half pan feed?

A half pan is typically sufficient to feed 15 people or less. If you require more servings, a full pan can accommodate up to 30 people. The number of people that a half pan can feed may vary depending on portion sizes and individual appetites. It is advisable to consider these factors when determining the quantity of food needed for your event or gathering.

Editor's Notes

During our commercial cold pans research, we found 31 commercial cold pans products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,159 customer reviews through our big data system to write the commercial cold pans list. We found that most customers choose commercial cold pans with an average price of $64.87.

The commercial cold pans are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of commercial cold pans, including Carlisle FoodService Products, HUBERT, Cambro, VEVOR, Tablecraft. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.