A Guide to Choosing the Best Restaurant Apron

If you work in the food and beverage or hospitality industry, chances are you already know all about the benefits of wearing an apron. Chefs and cooks need one to protect their clothes from spills and stains and not contaminate the food. And servers need it as a ‘shield’ between their uniform and food or somewhere to put away their pads and pens when their hands are full.

The apron is practical, it makes people look professional and is a great way to showcase a cohesive team. It also allows customers to easily identify the staff and know whom to address. So, it only makes sense that when you are on the quest for the best aprons for your restaurant staff, you want good quality, practicality, and looks. After all, it is a way to present your brand and let the customers know what you are about.

How to Choose the Right Apron?

Aprons come in various styles and lengths: bib and chef’s styles that provide full coverage, waist designs that are shorter, as well as cross-back and neck strap aprons, so the choice is huge. Different members of your restaurant staff will probably need a different style, however, there are still some common features you should be looking for.

Durable and Washable Fabrics

Since it is a piece that will have to stand a lot of wear and tear, the choice of fabric is very important. Don’t fall into the trap of buying cheap textiles to save money. By doing so, you will have a material that is flammable (something you don’t want in the kitchen) and poorly durable when it comes to washing.

That said, cotton canvas provides durability and comfort for kitchen workers, and denim and polyester materials are wrinkle-resistant and look trendy for your servant personnel. You might also want to think about water-resistant fabrics to be safe from common splatters. Most fabrics will soften with washing and colours tend to fade. However, you can find ones that are colourfast and can last over 100 washes.

Remember, these pieces are intended for everyday use; therefore, we suggest lightweight and breathable materials that balance things when the atmosphere gets heated.

Adjustability and Style

Most pieces come in one-size-fits-all or most because they are tied into place and can be adjusted to fit almost anyone. Choosing adjustable apron strap designs can ensure that they fit any body and shape. This way, you give your staff an option to adjust the neck strap to their personal needs. A thoughtfully designed adjustable apron strap gives some freedom and can also look stylish.

Another way to accommodate everybody is to opt for cross-back designs with adjustable straps that distribute the weight across the back. This is handy when the aprons start weighing down from pads or utensils.

Apart from the quintessential neck apron that can come in longer or shorter versions and are more suitable for the kitchen, for the front-of-the-house staff you can get a server and waist model. These are shorter and don’t cover the upper body, but allow for the necessary mobility of your waiters, baristas, or bartenders. The best ones provide enough covering without hindering the movements.

Pockets

This might seem like an insignificant feature to outsiders, but, for restaurant workers, the lack of pockets can be a deal-breaker. Deep, well-positioned pockets are non-negotiable. Chefs can’t afford to lose time looking for the instruments they need on the go, like timers, knives, or plating tools. Generously sized pockets are extremely convenient to keep these utensils.

The same goes for the wait staff. Pockets that are spacious enough for their arsenal and easily accessible keep things running smoothly. You don’t want customers waiting for their orders to be taken while the waiter is looking for his pen. Double-stitched chest and lower pockets are essential and will save time and energy.

Custom Design

Depending on the type of restaurant you run, you should carefully consider the colours or patterns of the pieces your employees will be wearing. You can go for some more classical, plain design in the traditional white or black, or if you want more vibrant energy, you can choose a combination of colours that pop out and brighten the space.

Our advice is to try to match the hues of the restaurant’s interior with those of the uniforms. For instance, you can choose something presentable for fine dining sophisticated premises, or fun and goofy for a laid-back diner.

On top of that, you can have your logo embroidered or personalise them with your employees’ names. This brings conformity, easy identification, and a powerful branding tool for your business. With the fashion-forward designs now offered, your staff will be proud to wear them.

To Sum It Up

There is a diversity of apron options out there, made of various materials, and numerous designs and fits. While a lot of your choice will come down to preference, bear in mind, feeling good and looking good are equally important. This garment gives people the mindset of “I am here to work” and reflects professionalism and style.

The best apron should suit both the body and the task at hand; but most of all, it should be one that people just love to wear.
There’s a lot to consider, but it is worth taking the time. The right choice will become part of your identity, so you want to do it right.

Demand quality, versatility, coverage, style, and, of course, pockets. As many pockets as possible!