All About Serving Carts

What's all the fuss about?

Serving carts are very practical because they almost always come on casters, allowing for maximum mobility. In addition, they are usually much more light weight than most kitchen carts, owing to the fact that most serving carts have from two to four open (not encased) shelves. Thus, they have less bulk materials weighing them down.

This open design not only allows for a light weight serving cart, but also allows for maximum viewing of the food or beverage being served, which can be very enticing to the viewer. For example, cakes or deserts could be stacked on different shelves, creating a multi-level desert showcase. Alternatively, a top shelf could be used for presentation of the main meal, while a bottom shelf could be used to store chilled champagne or lemonade.

Tea time!

Serving carts, sometimes called serving trolleys, are often used to serve traditional teas. Sometimes these serving carts are also referred to as serving tea carts, tea carts, or tea trolleys. Generally, the tea service is placed on the top shelf. Finger sandwiches or cookies can be placed on the top shelf if there is space, or can also be placed on a lower shelf. Adding such a serving cart to your home can provide subtle elegance.

Not just for food and beverages

You can also get creative with your serving cart, and use it for a variety of purposes. One fun idea is to transform an old serving cart into a mobile rack for houseplants. Just add a few houseplants in colorful pots, and you can liven up a living room, office, or bedroom. Since the serving cart is on wheels, you can move your houseplants throughout the year to allow for maximum sunlight.

Pricing and design

Serving carts range in style and price. Since serving carts have been around for quite some time, there are many antique serving carts floating around in antique stores and at garage sales. Serving carts also come in very contemporary designs. You can find serving carts for as low as $50, or as high as $1,000.

More expensive serving carts often include granite or marble counter tops and drawers. The type of serving cart you choose will probably be dependant on your specific needs and price range. Whatever type of serving cart you choose, it is certain to serve up many elegant teas and relaxing evenings on the back patio with cold lemonade or cocktails!

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