⭐ Types of Idli Trays: Regular, Mini/Coin, and Thatte Idli Trays –
Which One is Best for Your Business?
Idli is one of the most preferred breakfast items across India, especially in restaurants, hotels, catering setups, and cloud kitchens. Because of the high daily demand, commercial kitchens need the right type of idli trays that deliver consistent shape, fast steaming, and long-term durability.
While the market has multiple tray styles, the three most commonly used in professional kitchens are:
-
Regular Idli Trays
-
Mini/Coin Idli Trays
-
Thatte Idli Trays
Each tray is designed for different business needs, customer preferences, and menu styles. In this complete guide, we explain the differences, benefits, and best use cases to help you pick the right one.
👉 Explore our full range of Idli Trays
✅ 1. Regular Idli Trays
Best for: South Indian restaurants, Udupi hotels, tiffin centers, canteens, high-volume kitchens
Regular idli trays are the most widely used option in commercial steamers. They produce the traditional idli size served across India—from small eateries to premium restaurants.
Features
-
Standard round mould
-
Prepares 12–15 idli per plate
-
Fits all standard commercial idli steamers
-
Made using food-grade stainless steel (SS 304)
-
Known for long life and easy maintenance
Advantages
-
Perfect for everyday breakfast service
-
Uniform shape and fast cooking
-
Strong, durable and suitable for heavy use
-
Ideal for restaurants with high customer turnover
Who should buy?
Any restaurant or canteen where idlis are served daily in large quantities.
✅ 2. Mini / Coin Idli Trays
Best for: Buffets, banquets, live counters, caterers, kids’ menus, premium restaurants
Coin idlis have become extremely popular in recent years. They are small, soft, and perfect for dishes like Sambar Mini Idli, Masala Mini Idli, Butter Podi Idli, etc.
Features
-
Very small moulds (36–48 per plate)
-
Gives 150–300 mini idlis per steamer batch
-
Stainless steel construction for hygiene and durability
-
Suitable for live counters and bulk service
Advantages
-
Attractive presentation for buffets and corporate events
-
Faster cooking due to the small size
-
Kids love mini idlis, increasing customer satisfaction
-
Excellent for catering because they are easy to portion and serve
Who should buy?
Hotels, caterers, and restaurants that want to offer stylish plating or signature mini-idli dishes.
✅ 3. Thatte Idli Trays
Best for: Karnataka restaurants, darshinis, breakfast houses, specialty South Indian outlets
Thatte idli—also known as “plate idli”—is a soft, thick, and rich version of the regular idli. It is highly popular in Karnataka and increasingly gaining traction in other states.
Features
-
Wide, shallow mould
-
Usually 4–6 moulds per plate
-
Makes large, fluffy, moist idlis
-
Designed for even heat distribution
Advantages
-
Unique texture customers love
-
Perfect for premium breakfast menu items
-
Stays soft for a longer time
-
Helps restaurants create a “signature dish”
Who should buy?
Restaurants specializing in Karnataka cuisine or those wanting to stand out with a specialty idli option.
⭐ Which Idli Tray Is Best for Your Business?
BUSINESS TYPE RECOMMENDED TRAY
- Udupi/South Indian Restaurants Regular Idli Tray
- Caterers & Buffets Mini/Coin Idli Tray
- Darshinis & Karnataka Hotels Thatte Idli Tray
- Cloud Kitchens Regular + Mini
- Breakfast Outlets Regular
⭐ Factors to Consider Before Buying Idli Trays
✔ Material Quality
Food-grade stainless steel trays (SS 304) last longer, resist rust, and are safer for commercial cooking.
✔ Tray Compatibility
Ensure the diameter and height fit your existing idli steamer rack.
✔ Production Requirements
Choose the tray type based on how many idlis you need per batch and per day.
✔ Cleaning & Maintenance
Smooth-finish stainless steel trays ensure idlis don’t stick and are easy to clean.
⭐ Final Verdict
Every idli tray type has its own purpose:
-
Regular Idli Trays → Best for daily bulk breakfast service
-
Mini/Coin Idli Trays → Ideal for buffets, catering, premium dishes
-
Thatte Idli Trays → Perfect for specialty restaurants
Choosing the right tray ensures consistent shape, better cooking, and higher customer satisfaction—all essential for running a successful food business.
Looking to buy idli trays in bulk?
Visit jshotelware.com or contact us for wholesale prices and recommendations based on your restaurant’s needs.
📩 Email: sales@jshotelware.com
WhatsApp: +91 (750) 677-3452