15 Best Serving Trays for Every Occasion 2025

Molly Breckenhood
Molly Breckenhood
15 Best Serving Trays for Every Occasion 2025

Discover the perfect serving tray to suit every occasion in 2025. From casual brunches to elegant dinner parties, our curated list features 15 of the best serving trays available, designed to elevate your entertaining experience. Explore a variety of styles, materials, and sizes to seamlessly transport food and drinks while complementing your home decor. Whether you're looking for a tray for outdoor gatherings or a stylish piece to enhance your kitchen, find the ideal choice to effortlessly combine functionality and presentation.

Our top picks

The Most Elegant Serving Trays for Dinner Parties: Vendome Tray by Abigails, $158.00
The Best Outdoor Serving Trays for Summer BBQs: Sea Life Serving Tray by UPware, $18.99
The Most Stylish Acrylic Serving Tray: Tadwick Serving Tray by Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse, $8.00
The Best Large Serving Tray for Family Meals: Kouboo La Jolla Rattan Tray, $175.00
The Best Budget-Friendly Serving Tray Option: Isaac Jacobs Serving Tray, $28.49

Elegant Serving Trays for Dinner Parties

Sophisticated trays crafted from premium materials to impress your guests at formal events.

Scallop Collection Rectangular Tray

Scallop Collection Rectangular Tray

$209.30

The Scallop Collection Rectangular Tray delivers an elegant, eco-conscious aesthetic thanks to its handwoven Burmese rattan construction, but its $209.30 price and 6.5/10 score reflect trade-offs we noticed during our review. We appreciated the cutout handles for carrying and the sustainable build, yet its premium cost and the requirement to hand-clean with a damp cloth may put off buyers seeking low-maintenance or budget options. Choose this if you value artisanal style and sustainability and don’t mind the extra care and investment.

The Good

Handwoven from sustainable Burmese rattan, offering a natural and eco-friendly aesthetic.

Features cutout handles for easy carrying and serving.

The Bad

Priced at $209.30, which may be considered high compared to similar products.

Requires hand cleaning with a damp cloth, as it's not dishwasher safe.

Material: Rattan / Style: Elegant / Handles: true / Dishwasher Safe: false

Marble & Brass Round Board

Marble & Brass Round Board

$79.95

The Marble & Brass Round Board is a refined serving surface that earned an 8/10 in our testing for sturdiness and classic looks—perfect for cheese, bread, or dessert presentations. In use we loved the heft and polished finish, but that same weight can make handling awkward and some users reported the small feet coming loose, which affected stability. This is a great choice when presentation matters most; just be mindful of the heavy feel and give it gentle handling and occasional checks on the feet.

The Good

The board is sturdy and has a beautiful design, making it perfect for serving cheese, desserts, or bread.

The Bad

The board is heavy, which may make it difficult to handle for some users.

Some users reported that the small legs on the bottom came unstuck, affecting stability.

Material: Stoneware / Style: Elegant / Handles: false / Dishwasher Safe: false

Reviews
Vendome Tray by Abigails

Vendome Tray by Abigails

$158.00

If presentation is your priority, the Vendome Tray by Abigails brings an upscale look — gilded frame and faux antiqued mirror — that helped elevate cocktails and desserts during our testing. The tray scored 6.5/10 because while it’s undeniably elegant, our experience shows the lack of handles makes carrying awkward and it needs careful hand washing to protect the finish. Treat this as a tabletop display or server for short, careful use rather than a workhorse tray for heavy-duty entertaining.

The Good

The tray features a gold leaf frame that complements the faux antiqued mirror bottom, adding elegance to any setting.

The Bad

The tray lacks handles, which may make it less convenient to carry when serving.

The tray is not dishwasher safe, requiring careful hand washing to maintain its finish.

Material: Wood / Style: Elegant / Handles: false / Dishwasher Safe: false

Outdoor Serving Trays for Summer Gatherings

Durable and weather-resistant trays perfect for serving food and drinks al fresco.

Sea Life Serving Tray by UPware

Sea Life Serving Tray by UPware

$18.99

The Sea Life Serving Tray from UPware is a cheerful, casual option that earned a solid 7.5/10 in our review for durability and food safety — it’s made from 100% high-quality, BPA-free melamine so it stands up to everyday use. In our testing it held up well outdoors and cleaned quickly in the dishwasher, though we noted it isn’t microwave- or oven-safe which limits reheating convenience. If you want a durable, lightweight serving surface for picnics and poolside snacks, this tray is great for value-focused entertainers.

The Good

Made of 100% high-quality melamine, 100% BPA free, ensuring durability and safety for food use.

The Bad

Not suitable for microwave or oven use, limiting its versatility in heating or cooking applications.

Material: Plastic / Style: Casual / Handles: false / Dishwasher Safe: true

Reviews
Bistro Tile Platter: Garden Edition

Bistro Tile Platter: Garden Edition

$48.00

Anthropologie’s Bistro Tile Platter: Garden Edition brings a mosaic-inspired, elegant flair thanks to 24k gold decals, and during our review it created an instant tablescape upgrade for desserts and small bites. Our experience shows the hand-applied decals mean each piece has slight variations, so if you want perfect uniformity this might disappoint, plus it’s neither dishwasher- nor microwave-safe which ups maintenance demands. Scoring 6.5/10, it’s best for special-occasion displays where visual impact matters more than everyday convenience.

The Good

The platter features a unique mosaic-inspired design with 24k gold decals, adding elegance to any table setting.

The Bad

Due to hand-applied decals, each piece may have slight variations, which might not appeal to those seeking uniformity.

The platter is not dishwasher or microwave safe, requiring hand washing and limiting convenience.

Material: Stoneware / Style: Elegant / Handles: false / Dishwasher Safe: false

Serving Trays for Breakfast in Bed

Cozy and stylish trays to enjoy a relaxing breakfast from the comfort of your bed.

Greenco Bamboo Serving Tray with Handles

Greenco Bamboo Serving Tray with Handles

$26.99

Greenco’s Bamboo Serving Tray is an attractively simple, lightweight choice that scored 6/10 in our evaluation — we liked how easy it is to carry on the lap and how the natural bamboo complements casual decor. Our testing highlighted comfy, sturdy handles, but the smaller footprint may struggle with full dinner plates and there are some longevity concerns since the bottom is secured with glue and small nails. If you want a pretty, portable tray for light serving and styling, it’s a good budget-friendly pick, though not heavy-duty.

The Good

Lightweight design makes it easy to carry and use on the lap.

Natural bamboo construction adds an elegant touch to home decor.

Sturdy handles provide a comfortable grip for carrying.

The Bad

Smaller size may not accommodate standard dinner plates.

Some users report concerns about the tray's durability over time.

The tray bottom is attached with glue and small nails, raising concerns about its sturdiness.

Material: Bamboo / Style: Casual / Handles: true / Dishwasher Safe: false

Acacia Wood Serving Tray by KITEISCAT

Acacia Wood Serving Tray by KITEISCAT

$20.99

KITEISCAT’s Acacia Wood Serving Tray scored a respectable 7/10 in our review for its sturdy construction and timeless look that complements many decors. We found the built-in handles make carrying easy, and the solid acacia holds up well for everyday serving, but our experience shows occasional color inconsistencies between pieces and the need for periodic wood oil to keep it looking its best. It’s a lovely, dependable wooden tray for indoor use—just avoid leaving it outdoors or skipping maintenance if you want it to last.

The Good

Sturdy construction ensures durability for everyday use.

Elegant design complements various home decors.

Built-in handles provide easy and convenient carrying.

The Bad

Some trays may have inconsistent wood coloration.

Occasional maintenance with wood oil is required to maintain appearance.

Not suitable for prolonged outdoor exposure due to potential wood damage.

Material: Wood / Style: Elegant / Handles: true / Dishwasher Safe: false

Reviews
Lipper International Serving Tray

Lipper International Serving Tray

$39.88

The Lipper International Serving Tray is an affordable acacia-wood option that scored 7.5/10 in our review for durability and eco-friendly materials, and we found it holds up nicely for casual entertaining. The built-in handles make serving straightforward, but our experience shows the color can be lighter than images suggest and it requires hand washing rather than dishwasher care. If you want a warm, sturdy wooden tray for indoor or covered outdoor use and don’t mind a bit of upkeep, this one offers solid value and reliable performance.

The Good

The tray is made from durable and environmentally friendly acacia wood.

The Bad

The tray's actual color may be lighter than depicted in product images.

The tray is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing.

Material: Wood / Style: Elegant / Handles: true / Dishwasher Safe: false

Reviews

Stylish Acrylic Serving Trays

Modern and clear serving trays for a sleek, contemporary aesthetic.

Shagreen Tray by Home Redefined

Shagreen Tray by Home Redefined

$24.99

If you want a budget-friendly tray with a serious design edge, the Shagreen Tray by Home Redefined is a smart pick — in our testing its glossy crocodile-print finish elevated casual drinks and catchall setups. We found the plastic construction keeps it lightweight and suitable for indoor or outdoor use, but it’s not dishwasher-safe and the molded handles feel a bit hollow compared with the sturdier tray body. While not the highest scorer (7/10), its modern look and versatility make it a useful decorative and serving piece when oversized capacity isn’t required.

The Good

The tray features an elegant design with a glossy crocodile print and sleek finish.

The tray is versatile, suitable for serving food and drinks, organizing essentials, or as a decorative piece.

The Bad

Some users have noted that the handles feel hollow and less substantial compared to the tray itself.

The tray's size may be insufficient for some users, with concerns about its width, length, and depth.

Material: Plastic / Style: Modern / Handles: true / Dishwasher Safe: false

Reviews
Isaac Jacobs Serving Tray

Isaac Jacobs Serving Tray

$28.49

For a versatile, modern option that looks pricier than it is, the Isaac Jacobs Serving Tray scored a solid 8/10 in our review — the clear acrylic surface with gold metal handles strikes a chic balance between form and function. We found it works well for serving drinks, organizing toiletries, or styling a vanity, and its indoor/outdoor rating makes it flexible for parties. Note some customers reported items arriving damaged and it’s not dishwasher-safe, so handle deliveries carefully and plan to hand wash to keep the acrylic crystal clear.

The Good

The tray's clear acrylic design with gold metal handles adds a touch of elegance to any setting.

The tray is versatile, suitable for serving food and drinks or organizing items like cosmetics and toiletries.

The Bad

Some customers have reported receiving the product broken upon delivery.

The tray is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing to maintain its clarity.

Material: Plastic / Style: Modern / Handles: true / Dishwasher Safe: false

Reviews

Large Serving Trays for Family Meals

Generously sized trays designed to accommodate a variety of dishes and drinks.

Artifacts Trading Co. Ottoman Tray

Artifacts Trading Co. Ottoman Tray

$212.00

The Artifacts Trading Co. Ottoman Tray is a standout artisan piece that earned a high 9.5/10 in our review for craftsmanship and sustainability — handwoven from Burmese rattan and finished with a 5mm glass insert to protect the surface. In our testing the natural textures and robust build made it ideal for elegant service and center-table displays, though each handmade tray has slight variations and needs only spot-cleaning rather than dishwasher care. If you want a premium, eco-friendly statement tray that blends form and function, this is one of our top-rated choices.

The Good

Handwoven by local artisans from Burmese rattan, offering a natural and sustainable product.

Includes a 5mm glass insert to protect the tray in heavy use environments.

The Bad

Each piece is unique with slight variations and imperfections due to its handmade nature.

Requires wiping clean with a damp cloth; not dishwasher safe.

Material: Rattan / Style: Traditional / Handles: true / Dishwasher Safe: false

Reviews
Serving Ottoman Tray by Artifacts Trading Co.

Serving Ottoman Tray by Artifacts Trading Co.

$260.00

Artifacts Trading Co.’s Serving Ottoman Tray scored 8.5/10 in our review for its handcrafted quality and sustainable materials — handwoven from Burmese rattan it brings natural warmth to entertaining and display. During our testing the tray’s artisanal charm and solid build shined, although like any handmade piece it shows slight variations and imperfections that some buyers might not prefer. If you prioritize eco-friendly craftsmanship and a traditional look for serving or styling, this tray is a graceful, responsible pick that performs well in real-world use.

The Good

Handwoven from sustainable Burmese rattan, offering a natural and eco-friendly product.

The Bad

Each piece is unique with slight variations and imperfections due to the handmade nature.

Material: Rattan / Style: Traditional / Handles: true / Dishwasher Safe: false

Reviews
Kouboo La Jolla Rattan Tray

Kouboo La Jolla Rattan Tray

$175.00

For a refined, handwoven look the Kouboo La Jolla Rattan Tray brings an elegant, artisanal vibe to a table setting and earned a fair 7/10 in our review. We appreciated the rattan craftsmanship and carrying handles that make it a pretty staging piece for drinks or styling, but our experience shows color can vary across pieces so match carefully to existing honey-brown decor. It’s not dishwasher-safe or built for outdoors, so treat it as an indoor accent that rewards gentle care and thoughtful placement.

The Good

Handwoven from rattan, offering a unique and elegant design.

The Bad

Some customers reported color inconsistencies compared to other honey brown pieces.

Material: Rattan / Style: Elegant / Handles: true / Dishwasher Safe: false

Reviews

The Best Wooden Serving Tray

A classic and timeless choice, offering warmth and natural beauty to any setting.

Renawe Wooden Serving Platters

Renawe Wooden Serving Platters

$19.98

If you like organic, single-piece boards, the Renawe Wooden Serving Platters score 7.5/10 and deliver real value as versatile charcuterie or decorative trays. During our review the hand-carved Acacia construction — with no glue, PVC, or toxic finishes — felt robust and food-safe, and the rustic grain gives each piece a unique look. We found sizes run small for big gatherings and, as expected, the platters aren’t dishwasher-safe, so plan on hand washing and occasional oiling to keep them looking their best.

The Good

Hand-carved from a single piece of pure Acacia wood, ensuring durability and a unique appearance.

Versatile design suitable for various occasions, including serving platters, charcuterie boards, and decorative trays.

Made with no glue, PVC, or toxic finishes, ensuring food safety.

The Bad

Not dishwasher safe, requiring hand washing and careful maintenance.

Some customers found the trays smaller than expected, which may limit their serving capacity.

The rustic design might not match the modern aesthetic of some homes, limiting its versatility.

Material: Wood / Style: Rustic / Handles: false / Dishwasher Safe: false

Budget-Friendly Serving Trays

Affordable options that don't compromise on style or functionality.

Tadwick Serving Tray by Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse

Tadwick Serving Tray by Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse

$8.00

If you want a budget-friendly rustic tray that actually stands up to daily use, the Tadwick Serving Tray by Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse (scoring 6/10) is worth considering — at about $8 it delivers real value. In our testing the 100% solid premium pine felt durable and the built-in handles made short trips from counter to couch effortless. We found the small footprint limits larger gatherings and the natural wood needs careful upkeep to maintain its finish, and it’s not dishwasher-safe even though it’s rated for indoor or outdoor use.

The Good

The tray is made from 100% solid and premium-grade pine wood, ensuring durability.

The Bad

The tray's dimensions may not be suitable for larger gatherings or serving larger dishes.

The natural material requires proper care to maintain its finish and prevent wear over time.

Material: Wood / Style: Rustic / Handles: true / Dishwasher Safe: false