Tabletop Trends: Copper
Why copper keeps winning
Copper has been a fixture in commercial kitchens and restaurants for centuries, but until recently had become somewhat passe. But in the last ten years it has seen a sustained resurgence in popularity as its retro, timeless qualities have become increasing sought after. Here, FEA members, including some of the UK’s leading suppliers and producers of copper products, explain why copper is here to stay.
What’s the deal with copper?
Copper’s aesthetic qualities have made it a popular choice for any restaurant wanting to create a dramatic impression. Its rich, lustrous appearance adds a touch of elegance to any food served on it. It can also add a touch of theatre to at-table finishing, allowing you to bring a premium look to your service.
It is a very good heat conductor, so it’s an excellent material for cookware. Its thermal properties – heating up quickly but also cooling down when removed from the source of heat – make it ideal for cooking delicate foods like fish, as well as sauces and reductions, as it reduces the chance of it becoming overcooked.
Copper’s also great for barware. From ice buckets to cocktail shakers and other tools of the mixologist, it is a common sight in bars looking to create a statement with a retro, quirky and characterful look.
What do customers need to know about caring for copper?
Over time copper can develop a patina through exposure to oxygen, water and other chemicals. While many manufacturers give their copper products a protective layer, it’s recommended that you hand clean them and use specialist copper cleaning products to ensure the protective layer isn’t damaged. You should also dry them immediately after cleaning to prevent water marking and reducing the chance that a patina can develop.
Green copper
If looked after correctly copper is extremely durable and resistant to wear, making it a practical choice for tableware in busy restaurants. As well as easily handling heavy use in fast paced environments, it is also completely recyclable, which helps to improve sustainability when factoring in the full lifetime costs of your equipment.
What’s next for copper?
FEA members have been bringing a diverse range of copper products to market recently, with the trend for stand-out aesthetics and interesting presentation pieces driving much of this. Miniature saucepans and other cookware such as woks are popular choices for creating eye catching serves that are perfect for high end dining while retaining a casual charm.
Manufacturers are also creating copper cookware that is compatible with modern cooking equipment such as induction hobs. Saucepans with ferromagnetic iron bases that work with induction equipment allow chefs to access the performance of copper without having to retain traditional appliances, helping to create a more sustainable kitchen.
The pictures show:
Amefa – Austin tableware and cutlery
Contacto – Copper cookware
PFR – Copper barware
Lifetime Brands – Izmir tea infuser
Signature – de Buyer Inocuivre and jam pan
FEM – Pujadas mini serving cups
This article is part of Tabletop Trends - FEA's quarterly light equipment and tableware sector newsletter.
Tabletop Trends is produced and distributed by the Foodservice Equipment Association, the UK's largest independent foodservice equipment trade association. All suppliers listed in this article are FEA members. A full list of Light Equipment and Table suppliers can be found on our Meet Our Members section - simply select Light Equipment / Food Prep from the Product Type drop down menu
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