6 Best Restaurant-Quality Tongs for Professional Cooking
When selecting the best restaurant-quality tongs for professional cooking and serving, you need tools that are reliable, durable, and safe under demanding conditions. These tongs aren’t just about grabbing food—they must withstand temperatures over 500°F, resist rust, and offer a secure grip on everything from delicate pastries to hefty steaks. With options featuring scalloped edges, locking mechanisms, and ergonomic handles, understanding how each performs can make or break your efficiency. Curious which models excel in these areas?
Update International Stainless Steel Black Spring Tongs (TOPP-12)
- These stainless steel spring tongs are an essential to any kitchen
- Due to its stainless steel make up, the tong features durable construction so there is no need to worry about cracks or...
If you need a pair of tongs that can do many jobs in the kitchen, the Update International Stainless Steel Black Spring Tongs (TOPP-12) are a good choice. These 12-inch tongs are made from strong stainless steel. This material won’t crack or wear out easily. The scalloped edges help grip food tightly. You can use these tongs to flip steaks, serve salads, or toss pasta. They work well in grilling and buffet setups. The tongs do not contain harmful chemicals like DEHP, so they are safe to use with food. They are sturdy and dependable. With these tongs, you can serve food confidently. They are easy to use and reliable.
Best for: Home cooks, grill lovers, and buffet hosts who want durable and versatile tongs for many tasks.
Pros:
- Made from strong stainless steel that lasts long
- Has scalloped edges to hold food securely
- Safe for food because they do not have harmful chemicals
Cons:
- The 12-inch size may be too big for very delicate jobs
- Heavier than lightweight tongs, which may make them harder to handle
- Mostly black color, limited options for different looks
Winco 9 Stainless Steel Serving Tongs with Plastic Handle, Black
- Heavy-Duty – Designed to withstand daily use in commercial foodservice environments ideal for buffets, catering and...
- Color Coded – Brightly colored handles help prevent cross-contamination
The Winco 9 Stainless Steel Serving Tongs with Plastic Handle are a useful tool for busy kitchens. They are 9.5 inches long, making them easy to handle. The tongs have scalloped edges that gently grip salads, vegetables, and cold foods. This helps prevent damage to the food. Made from strong stainless steel, the tongs last a long time and can be washed many times without rusting. The black plastic handle helps stop cross-contamination, which is important in professional kitchens.
Many users give these tongs a high rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. They say the tongs stay durable even after heavy use. However, these tongs are not good for hot foods because of their design. They are best for cold food service. The black handle is the only color option available. Also, since they are a bit large, they need more space in small kitchens.
Best for: chefs and kitchen workers who need sturdy tongs to serve cold foods in busy restaurants or catering setups.
Pros:
- Made from heavy-duty stainless steel for lasting use.
- Scalloped edges grip food gently.
- Easy to clean and safe to use in dishwashers.
Cons:
- Not recommended for hot foods.
- Only come with black handles.
- Larger size needs more storage space.
These tongs are a simple, reliable tool to help serve cold foods smoothly and efficiently.
New Star Foodservice 12-Inch Stainless Steel Spring Tongs (Set of 12, Vinyl Coated)
- Made from commercial-grade, durable stainless steel
- A scalloped end design improves grip when clamping onto any meats or ingredients
Looking for strong, reliable tongs for your busy kitchen? The New Star Foodservice 12-Inch Stainless Steel Spring Tongs come in a set of 12, perfect for restaurants or home use. These tongs are made from shiny, solid stainless steel. Each pair is about 12 inches long, giving you plenty of reach and safety when handling hot food.
The curved, scalloped ends help grip meat and ingredients tightly. The handles are coated with vinyl, which keeps them from rusting and makes them comfortable to hold. They can resist heat up to 180°F, so you can use them with hot foods without worry. These tongs are lightweight but strong, so they won’t jam or fall apart, even if you drop them.
Since they come in a set of 12, you’ll have enough for busy days when many people need your help. They work well in fast-paced kitchens and for cooking at home. They don’t have fancy lock features, so storing them is simple. Just use rubber bands if you want to keep them closed.
These tongs are easy to clean because they’re dishwasher safe. They won’t break or lose parts over time. They are a good choice if you want durable, professional-quality tongs that last and help you serve food quickly and safely.
OXO Good Grips 9 Inch Stainless Steel Locking Tongs
- Versatile for cooking, tossing and transferring food
- Tongs lock closed for convenient storage
The OXO Good Grips 9-Inch Stainless Steel Locking Tongs are a great tool for home cooks and professional chefs. They are made from strong stainless steel that can handle high heat without bending or warping. These tongs have scalloped edges that grip food well, whether you are tossing greens or flipping a steak. The handles are soft, non-slip, and comfortable to hold. They also have thumb rests, which make them easier to use for a long time.
The tongs feature a locking mechanism that keeps them closed when not in use. There is also a large loop at the end for hanging, so you can store them easily. They are heavy-duty and built to last a long time.
These tongs are best for people who want durable tools for grilling, cooking, and serving. They are good at gripping different foods and can handle high heat. However, they may cost a little more than plastic tongs. The 9-inch size might not be ideal for people with very large hands or special tasks that need longer tools. Also, if you prefer tongs with silicone tips for use on non-stick pans, these stainless steel ones are not the best choice.
Winco 16 Stainless Steel Serving Tongs with Plastic Handle, Black
- Heavy-Duty – Designed to withstand daily use in commercial foodservice environments ideal for buffets, catering and...
- Color Coded – Brightly colored handles help prevent cross-contamination
If you need a pair of tongs that are strong and reliable, the Winco 16 Stainless Steel Serving Tongs with a plastic handle are a good choice. These tongs are about 16 inches long and weigh around 7.4 ounces. They are made from stainless steel, which makes them tough and long-lasting.
The edges of the tongs are scalloped, so they grip foods like salads, vegetables, or fruit easily. The black plastic handle feels comfortable to hold and helps keep your hands clean by preventing cross-contamination. You can wash these tongs in the dishwasher, so cleaning is quick and simple.
These tongs are built for busy kitchens and buffet lines where they need to be used often and handle heavy food. They are sturdy, easy to use, and dependable for professionals who want quality tools.
Good for: Chefs, caterers, and food service workers who need strong tongs they can use many times a day.
Advantages:
- Made from tough stainless steel for durability
- Soft, non-slip plastic handle for a comfy grip
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
Disadvantages:
- Slightly heavier than small tongs, which may be tiring over long periods
- Do not have a locking feature to keep them closed
- Sharp stainless steel edges may scratch some surfaces if not careful
Winco 12 Stainless Steel Serving Tongs with Plastic Handle, Red
- Heavy-Duty – Designed to withstand daily use in commercial foodservice environments ideal for buffets, catering and...
- Color Coded – Brightly colored handles help prevent cross-contamination
These Winco 12 Stainless Steel Serving Tongs come with a bright red plastic handle. They are 12 inches long, making them easy to use for serving salads, fruits, and vegetables. The tongs are made from strong stainless steel. This makes them resistant to rust and keeps them looking new longer. The scalloped edges help grip cold foods gently but securely. Their red handles make it simple to keep different foods separate and prevent cross-contamination. These tongs are safe for dishwasher use and are lightweight at just 5.4 ounces. They are a useful tool for busy kitchens and food displays where speed, hygiene, and appearance matter.
Best For: Fast-paced places like buffets, catering events, or restaurant kitchens that need reliable tools for cold food serving.
Pros:
- Made from tough stainless steel that resists rust
- Bright red handles to prevent cross-contamination
- Safe for dishwasher cleaning and light to carry
Cons:
- Only good for cold foods; not for hot food
- May be small for handling large or bulky items
- Fixed length of 12 inches might not fit all situations
Factors to Consider When Choosing Restaurant-Quality Tongs for Professional Handling
When selecting restaurant-quality tongs, it’s crucial to take into account materials that withstand heavy use without bending or rusting—think stainless steel or heat-resistant silicone. The length and size should align with your typical tasks, whether flipping burgers on a grill or serving delicate greens, to ensure control and safety. Don’t overlook grip and comfort; ergonomic designs can make long shifts feel a bit less like arm workouts, especially when precision counts.
Material Durability
When picking restaurant-quality tongs, the material matters a lot. Good tongs are made from strong, durable materials that last a long time. High-quality stainless steel is common because it resists rust, stains, and corrosion. Tongs made from a single piece of steel are better because they won’t break easily, even when you use them for heavy tasks like flipping steak or serving salad.
Heat resistance is also important. Good tongs can handle temperatures over 180°F without bending or warping. This makes them reliable for high-heat cooking. Some tongs have coatings like silicone or vinyl. These coatings add grip and help protect the tongs from scratches. They also make the tongs more comfortable to use.
Another key point is how well tongs hold up in the dishwasher. Good-quality ones stay strong and don’t get damaged after many washes. They are built to last through the busy days in a kitchen and keep working smoothly.
Length and Size
Choosing the right size and length for restaurant tongs is important. It helps you work faster and safer in the kitchen. Longer tongs, around 12 inches or more, give you better control. They also keep you safe when handling hot or big items. Shorter tongs, about 9 inches, are good for gentle tasks like serving salads. They let you control small foods easily. Extra-long tongs, 15 to 16 inches, are best for grilling. They keep your hands away from the heat. Comfortable tongs help prevent hand fatigue, especially during long shifts. Pick the right size for each job to work better, faster, and safer. The right tongs make cooking easier and more efficient.
Grip and Comfort
A good grip is the key to safe and easy food handling. This is especially true when working with hot, oily, or delicate foods. Tongs that have scalloped or serrated edges grip better and help hold food without crushing or tearing it. Handles that feel nice in your hand can make a big difference. They help reduce tiredness if you use tongs for a long time and let you handle food more accurately. Grips that are rubbery, textured, or non-slip help you stay in control, even if your hands are wet or greasy. This is important because slippery tools can be hard to use. Also, a balanced design and even weight make tongs comfortable to hold and easy to use. If tongs feel unsteady or heavy, it can make food handling more difficult and unsafe. Good grip and comfort are not just nice extras; they are a must for anyone cooking professionally. They help you work faster, safer, and with more confidence.
Food Safety Standards
When it comes to food safety, the tools you use matter. Choose stainless steel tongs. They are non-porous, so bacteria can’t hide in tiny spots. Plastic or rubber tongs can trap germs, which is risky. Pick tongs with scalloped or grooved edges. These help grip food firmly and prevent slipping. Using different-colored tongs for different food groups is important. It helps prevent cross-contamination, keeping food safe. Make sure the tongs are dishwasher safe. This helps clean and disinfect them well after every use. Also, check that the tongs do not contain BPA, phthalates, or harmful chemicals. These chemicals can be dangerous to health. Always choose safe, healthy options. Good handling of food tools keeps your kitchen safe. It builds trust with your customers and makes your restaurant a clean place to eat.
Locking and Storage
Ever wonder why some professional kitchens stay so organized? The secret often lies in how they use tongs with locking and storage features. Good tongs have a lock that keeps them pressed shut. This makes the tongs small and easy to hang on hooks or racks. Saving space helps keep the kitchen tidy. When locked, the tongs won’t open by accident. This keeps food clean and safe to eat. Look for tongs with strong locking rings. Many are made of stainless steel or hard plastic. These last a long time and work well. Putting your tongs in the right spot makes your work easier. It saves time and keeps your kitchen clean. A good locking system means your tongs are always ready to use. It also helps stop germs from spreading. Clean and safe kitchens work smoothly when tongs stay locked and stored properly.
Use Versatility
Choosing good restaurant-quality tongs means picking ones that can do many jobs in your kitchen. These tongs are versatile because they can grab different kinds of food easily. Look for tongs that work well with hot and cold items. For example, they should pick up steaming vegetables and cold salads without losing their grip. Features like adjustable or scalloped edges help hold different textures securely. You can flip a juicy steak or serve delicate pastries with the same tongs. Drying or washing them is simple if they are made from tough materials like stainless steel. This keeps them from bending or warping. Tongs that resist heat up to 180°F or higher are good choices. Dishwasher-safe tongs save you time and effort. Handles should feel comfortable to hold and not slip, and a locking mechanism keeps them closed when not in use. These features make tongs useful for many tasks, so they can quickly adapt to whatever cooking or serving needs you have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Stainless Steel Tongs Dishwasher Safe for Commercial Use?
Dishwasher safety is vital for commercial tongs, and stainless steel tongs are typically dishwasher safe, making cleaning easy and efficient. You can confidently use and sanitize them regularly without worrying about damage or corrosion.
What Grip Textures Provide the Best Control While Serving Hot Foods?
You’ll want textured grips with ridges or silicone coatings, as they offer better traction and control when serving hot foods. These textures prevent slips and guarantee you handle high temperatures safely and confidently during professional service.
How Do Spring Tension Adjustments Affect Tongs’ Durability and Performance?
Adjusting spring tension in your tongs balances durability and performance; tighter tension offers better grip and control but may wear out springs faster, while looser tension extends lifespan but can reduce precision during handling.
Can Tongs Be Used Safely With Non-Stick Cookware Surfaces?
You can safely use tongs with non-stick cookware if you choose ones with silicone or other non-abrasive tips. Always avoid metal tongs that may scratch the surface, ensuring safe handling and preserving your cookware’s quality.
What Are the Ideal Tongs Length Options for Different Food Handling Tasks?
You should choose tongs that suit your task’s distance and safety. Shorter tongs (6-8 inches) work well for delicate foods, while longer ones (10-16 inches) keep you safe when handling hot or heavy items.
Hi, I’m Liza Jensen, your culinary companion here at Recipe by Liza. 🍳🥗Cooking has always been my passion—I find joy in every whisk, every sizzle, and every aromatic spice. As a home cook and recipe developer, I’ve explored flavors from around the world, creating dishes that warm hearts and tantalize taste buds.Join me on this flavorful journey! Let’s swap kitchen stories, share tips, and celebrate the magic of food together.
