6 Best Tongs for Grilling and Serving in 2025: Top Picks for Every Chef
Choosing the right grilling and serving tongs can make a noticeable difference in your cooking experience, especially when durability, safety, and comfort take center stage. With options like stainless steel construction up to 12 inches long, ergonomic handles, and locking mechanisms, the top picks in 2025 balance performance and ease of use. But which set truly meets the needs of both professional kitchens and backyard grills? That’s a question worth exploring as we compare the most reliable, versatile tongs on the market.
Stainless Steel Serving Tongs (12-Inch, 3 Pieces)
If you need tools that can do many jobs in the kitchen or outside, consider stainless steel serving tongs. These tongs are 12 inches long and come in a set of three. They are made from high-quality stainless steel that is safe for food. This means they won’t rust or break easily. The shiny finish and clam shell heads help you grip food tightly and release it smoothly. They also have a sliding lock that keeps them closed when you don’t use them. With three different sizes, these tongs can handle many tasks. You can use them for turning burgers, serving salads, or flipping vegetables on the grill. Some people say they are a little lightweight, but they are affordable and practical. They are a good addition to your kitchen or outdoor meals.
These tongs are best for people who want affordable, versatile tools. They work well for grilling, serving, and food handling inside and outside.
Pros:
- Made from food-safe stainless steel
- Three different sizes for many tasks
- Easy to grip and release with a locking feature
Cons:
- Some find them a bit lightweight and less sturdy
- Not dishwasher safe; hand washing is needed
- May have sharp edges or thinner metal that could wear out faster
KitchenAid Stainless Steel Utility Tongs, 12 Inch
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KitchenAid Stainless Steel Utility Tongs, 12 Inch |
$13.99 |
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KitchenAid’s 12-inch Stainless Steel Utility Tongs are a great tool for your kitchen. They are strong and can handle many tasks. You can flip pancakes, grab salad, or serve food with these tongs. They are made from tough 430 stainless steel, which means they are durable and good-looking. The tongs are about 11.6 inches long. This gives you enough reach and control without feeling heavy in your hand. The tips of the tongs are covered in silicone. This helps hold food securely and protects your cookware from scratches. They have a shiny, polished finish with a laser-etched logo that shows quality. You can lock the tongs shut when not in use, making them easy to store. They are designed to be comfortable to hold, even during long use. These tongs are dishwasher safe and have a high 4.8-star rating. They are a reliable choice for any home or professional kitchen.
Best For: People who want strong, easy-to-use tongs for flipping, serving, and handling food.
Pros:
- Made from strong 430 stainless steel with a shiny finish.
- Silicone tips grip food well and protect cookware.
- Lock feature makes storing easy.
- Comfortable to hold and lightweight, about 6-6.1 ounces.
Cons:
- Some wish the silicone tips were longer.
- Small differences in size noted by a few users.
- Made in China, which might matter to some people.
Chengu 12 Pack Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs
The Chengu 12 Pack Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs are great tools for both home cooks and professional chefs. They come in three sizes: 7 inches, 9 inches, and 12 inches. This means you can use them for anything, from tossing salads to flipping burgers on the grill.
Made of shiny, high-quality stainless steel, these tongs are built to last. They are dishwasher safe, so cleaning is easy. They are also heat resistant, so you can use them near hot food without worries. The long handles have thumb grips, which help you hold and control the tongs comfortably. Plus, each set has a locking mechanism that makes storage simple and tidy.
Whether you’re flipping meat, serving snacks, or handling seafood, these tongs give you many options. You won’t need to switch between different utensils.
Best For: People who want reliable, versatile tongs for cooking, serving, and grilling.
Pros:
- Made of durable stainless steel with a shiny finish
- Includes three sizes: 7″, 9″, and 12″
- Easy to clean, heat resistant, and easy to store with locking clips
Cons:
- The edges may not look perfect, which could affect their look for some people
- Not made with fancy materials, so they might not feel super high-end
- Some users think they look less refined than more expensive tongs
These tongs are a simple, reliable tool for anyone who loves cooking and serving food. They are strong, easy to use, and fit many different tasks in the kitchen.
Winco Stainless Steel Coiled Spring Utility Tong
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Winco Stainless Steel, Coiled Spring Utility Tong Heavyweight, 12-Inch, Medium |
$7.64 |
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The Winco Stainless Steel Coiled Spring Utility Tong is built for tough jobs in the kitchen. It is made from strong, rust-resistant stainless steel, with a thickness of 0.9mm. This makes it last a long time and stand up to daily use. The 12-inch length helps you reach deep into pots or pans. The scalloped edges help grip different types of food securely. The coiled spring inside keeps it feeling firm and tight every time you use it.
This tong weighs about 5 ounces, so it feels solid but not heavy. It is easy to clean and dishwasher safe, which helps keep it hygienic. While it does not have a locking feature or a hanging loop, it is simple and reliable for everyday kitchen tasks. You can use it to flip large meats, serve salads, or handle big portions with ease.
Best for: Home cooks and restaurant kitchens that need strong, durable tongs for heavy-duty tasks like flipping meats and serving salads.
Pros:
- Made from tough, rust-resistant stainless steel for long use.
- Coiled spring keeps it firm and gives a good grip.
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
Cons:
- No lock or clip to store it easily.
- Doesn’t have a hanging loop for simple hanging storage.
- The spring can be a little tricky to clean thoroughly.
This tong is a simple, durable tool. It works well for anyone who needs a strong and reliable kitchen helper for everyday tasks.
OXO Good Grips 12-Inch Stainless-Steel Locking Tongs
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OXO Good Grips 12-Inch Stainless-Steel Locking Tongs |
$15.95 |
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If you like grilling or serving food, the OXO Good Grips 12-inch Stainless-Steel Locking Tongs are a good choice. They are made from strong brushed stainless steel. These tongs are about 13.75 inches long and weigh around 5.3 ounces. They work well for flipping meat, tossing vegetables, or moving hot food from one place to another.
The tongs have scalloped edges. This helps you grip food tight so it doesn’t slip. They also have a locking feature. This makes it easy to store them in a drawer or hang them up. The handles are made with rubber grips. This keeps your hand comfortable and helps you hold on, even if your hands are wet or greasy.
These tongs can last a long time. With good care, they can work for more than 20 years. They are better than plastic tongs because they stay strong, even with high heat. However, they cost more than some cheaper options. They are a bit heavier, so if you use tongs for a long time, it might feel tiring. You should wash them carefully to keep their shiny finish.
Best for: People who cook at home or grill often. They want strong, good-quality tongs for many kitchen tasks and high-heat cooking.
Pros:
- Made from tough stainless steel that won’t bend or break
- Rubber grips make them comfortable to hold and easy to control
- The locking feature helps you store them neatly and they last many years
Cons:
- They cost more than plastic or rubber-tipped tongs
- They are a little heavier than some cheaper tongs, which could cause hand fatigue
- Need careful washing to keep their shiny look
This tool is perfect if you want durable, reliable tongs that work well with hot foods.
Tenta Tenta Kitchen Tongs Set of 3, Stainless Steel, 12 Inch
If you like to cook a lot or enjoy outdoor barbecues, the Tenta Tenta Kitchen Tongs Set of 3 is a great choice. These tongs are made from strong, rust-proof stainless steel that will last a long time. Each pair is 12 inches long, giving you plenty of reach. The handles are designed to fit comfortably in your hand, so it’s easy to grip and control the tongs. Whether you’re flipping burgers or serving salads, these tongs make the job simpler and safer.
The shiny finish looks nice and makes cleaning easy because they are dishwasher safe. At first, the edges of the tongs might feel sharp, so be careful when you use them or wear gloves. Also, the tongs have larger ends and are not magnetic, which might make storing them a bit tricky. Some people say they feel stiff when they first start using them, but they usually loosen up after a few uses.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Tongs for Grilling and Serving
When selecting tongs for grilling and serving, you need to take into account several important factors that impact both safety and performance. Are the materials durable enough to withstand high heat and regular use without warping or breaking? Additionally, features like length, grip comfort, and locking mechanisms can make all the difference in handling hot foods confidently and storing them conveniently.
Material Durability and Safety
Choosing tongs made from strong, food-safe materials is very important for safe cooking and serving. High-quality stainless steel, especially 100%, resists rust, corrosion, and high heat. This means your tongs will last for many barbeque seasons. Tongs with heat-resistant tips stop them from melting or warping when you handle hot food or grills. You don’t want a pair that bends or breaks, as this can be dangerous and may hurt your cookware. Avoid cheap, flimsy materials that can break or have sharp edges. These can be unsafe and damage your pots or pans. Cleaning your tongs properly helps keep them safe to use. Hand washing works best and helps prevent bacteria from growing. Remember, buying sturdy, food-grade tongs is smart. It keeps your grilling safe, easy, and fun.
Length and Maneuverability
Long tongs, usually 12 inches or longer, help you keep a safe distance from hot flames or food on the grill. This keeps you from getting burned. But longer tongs are not enough by themselves. It’s also important that they are easy to control. Tongs that are light and balanced are easier to handle, especially during long grilling sessions. Nobody wants tired arms! Tongs with textured or scalloped grips give you a better hold. This is helpful when flipping sticky or delicate foods. How easily the tongs open and close also matters. Good spring mechanisms help the tongs operate smoothly, so you don’t fumble. An ergonomic handle makes holding the tongs more comfortable, especially in tight spaces. The best tongs balance length and control. They make grilling safer and help you flip food more precisely.
Locking and Storage Features
Locking and storage features are important when choosing grilling tongs. A good locking system keeps the tongs closed when not in use. This helps prevent accidents and keeps your tools tidy. Some tongs have sliding locks that are strong and easy to use. Others have squeeze locks that let you open and close quickly. Many tongs also have hang loops or holes. These make it simple to store your tongs on hooks, saving space. Good locking and storage keep your tongs safe, easy to find, and last longer. Weak locks can break or slip open, which can be dangerous. So, look for tongs with reliable locking features. That way, your tongs will stay safe and work well for many grilling sessions.
Grip Comfort and Control
Have you ever noticed that some tongs feel better in your hand? The reason is mainly about how they fit and how easy they are to hold. Tongs with handles that match the shape of your hand are easier to use and help you avoid getting tired during long grilling. Tongs with rough or rubber grips do not slip, even if your hands are greasy or wet. This makes it safer and less stressful to grip them tight. Some tongs have a locking button to keep them closed when not in use. The weight of the tongs also matters. Lighter tongs are easier to move quickly and precisely. Heavier ones stay steady when handling big or heavy food. Some tongs have adjustable or better grips to give you more control. This helps keep your food safe and prevents your fingers from getting burned. Good grip comfort and control are important. They make grilling safer and easier.
Heat Resistance Capabilities
When choosing tongs for grilling, it’s important to think about how well they resist heat. Not all materials can handle the hot flames and high temperatures. Stainless steel and titanium are good options because they can usually handle over 800°F without bending or breaking. Tongs with silicone or rubber tips can usually stand up to about 600°F. But if you leave them in very high heat, they might melt, which is not good. Metal tongs without coatings are strong and can handle intense heat well. They are a great choice for flipping steaks or moving very hot veggies. Long tongs help keep your hands away from the fire and heat. Tongs with heat-resistant handles or insulation give extra safety. Picking tongs that can handle the heat keeps them from warping or breaking when things get very hot.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Choosing tongs made from stainless steel or other rust-resistant materials is a smart move. These materials are easy to clean and last a long time. They won’t rust or corrode, so your tongs stay shiny and work well after many uses. Look for tongs labeled dishwasher safe. This makes cleaning simple and prevents damage from strong detergents or hot water.
Check your tongs regularly for any sharp or rough edges. These can hide germs or cause cuts when you clean them. It’s best to wash them by hand with warm, soapy water. Dry them right away to stop rust from forming. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or steel wool, as they can scratch the surface. Scratches can trap dirt and bacteria, making your tongs less safe and less durable.
Taking good care of your tongs helps them last a long time. Clean them properly and handle them gently. This way, they will stay in great shape and be ready whenever you need them for cooking or grilling.
Size Options and Versatility
When choosing tongs for grilling and serving food, size really matters. Tongs come in different lengths, from 9 inches to 13.75 inches. Picking the right size makes your work safer and easier. Longer tongs, like 13.75 inches, let you reach over hot grills without getting burned. They are good for handling hot foods or cooking on deep grills. Shorter or medium-sized tongs are better for delicate tasks. You can use them to serve salads or small snacks without crushing the food. Sometimes, a set includes multiple sizes. These versatile sets help you handle everything, from small veggies to large steaks. The right size tongs help you grip better, make tasks easier, and lower the chances of dropping or damaging foods. Choosing the right size makes grilling and serving safer, smoother, and more fun.
Price and Value
When choosing tongs for grilling and serving, price and durability matter. You can find basic sets for less than $10. But these might not be very sturdy or heat resistant. They could break or bend sooner than you want. Spending around $15 to $20 gives you better quality tongs. Look for stainless steel with reinforced springs. These last longer and work better. If you cook a lot, consider high-quality tongs. Features like locking mechanisms, heat resistance up to 600°F, and comfortable handles are helpful. Think about how often you grill. If you only cook sometimes, a cheaper set may do. But if you grill often, invest in stronger, more durable tongs. Buying a set can also save money. Sets often include different sizes for various tasks. The key is to find a good balance. Choose tools that match your grilling habits and expectations. This way, you will enjoy using your tongs for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’S the Optimal Length for Grilling Tongs?
The current question about the ideal length for grilling tongs is important because it affects safety and control. You should choose tongs around 12 to 15 inches long, balancing ease of use with keeping your hands safe from heat.
Are Silicone Tips Better Than Stainless Steel for Certain Foods?
You should choose silicone tips if you’re handling fragile foods like vegetables or seafood, as they prevent scratches and sticking. Stainless steel tips are ideal for grilling meats, offering durability, heat resistance, and a firm grip for heavy or greasy items.
How Should Tongs Be Cleaned and Maintained?
You should clean your tongs after each use with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. Periodically, check for damage, tighten any loose joints, and avoid dishwasher cleaning if non-stainless parts might corrode.
Can Tongs Be Dishwasher Safe?
You might wonder if tongs are dishwasher safe. Many are made with dishwasher-safe materials, making cleaning easy. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions, as some tongs need hand washing to preserve their quality and longevity.
What Material Offers the Best Heat Resistance?
When considering heat resistance, you should look for tongs made of stainless steel or silicone-coated materials. These materials handle high temperatures well, ensuring safety and durability during your grilling and serving tasks.

Hello! I’m Eloise Wilson, the culinary enthusiast behind SimplyCookings. Cooking is my canvas and flavors are my palette. I’m here to share easy-to-follow recipes and kitchen wisdom that will make your cooking journey joyful and delicious. Join me and let’s turn everyday meals into extraordinary experiences!