A chef coat is more than a uniform. It protects cooks from heat, splatter and spills, and it shows guests that your kitchen means business. With so many styles, fabrics and colors available, here is how to choose the right chef coat for your kitchen.

Why chefs wear chef coats

• Protection. Thick, double layered fronts help shield the body from hot liquids and steam.
• Reversible fronts. Many double breasted coats can be buttoned the other way to hide a stain mid shift.
• A professional look. A clean chef coat builds trust, especially in open kitchens where guests can see the cooks.

1. Pick the right fabric

Fabric decides how comfortable a coat is on a long shift.

• Poly/cotton blends are durable, hold their color and are easy to wash.
• Lightweight and vented coats, like the Edwards Litevent line, help keep cooks cooler in hot kitchens.
• Mesh back and stretch panels add airflow and freedom to move.

2. Choose the closure

• Buttons are the classic look. Double breasted coats with 10 or 12 buttons are the traditional choice.
• Snap closures are quick to open in an emergency and easy to put on.
• Zip front coats give a modern, clean look.

3. Long sleeve or short sleeve

Long sleeves offer the most protection from burns and splatter and look the most traditional. Short sleeves are cooler and popular in busy, hot kitchens and for prep cooks. Many kitchens choose long sleeves for chefs and short sleeves for line and prep staff.

4. Pick a color

White is the classic chef coat color and is easy to bleach. Black hides stains and looks modern in open kitchens. Colored coats can match your brand or tell guests who is who on the team.

5. Get the right fit

A chef coat should allow you to reach, lift and bend without pulling across the back. Unisex coats in a full range of sizes make it easy to outfit the whole team, so every cook is comfortable.

6. Add your logo and names

Embroidering your restaurant’s logo, and even the chef’s name, on the chest makes your kitchen team look polished and professional.

Complete the kitchen uniform

Pair chef coats with chef pants, chef hats and wraps and a bib apron. For a lighter option in open kitchens, see our chef shirts.

Shop chef coats

Ambassador Uniform carries classic and modern chef coats for restaurants, hotels and catering kitchens, with custom embroidery, no order minimums and free shipping on orders over $299. Shop chef coats or call 1-800-711-5885 for help.