Abstract: A rotating cafeteria type food service counter that includes a generally circular counter top supported on top an immobile framework by idler rollers mounted to the framework. The drive shaft includes upper and lower sections, the upper section being fixed to the underside of the counter top in axial fashion, and the lower section being carried in bearings mounted on the counter's framework. A drive motor assembly is connected with the drive shaft's lower section. A universal joint connects the drive shaft's upper and lower sections. The use of the universal joint permits the counter top to tilt or flex slightly relative to its rotational axis if required to maintain supportive contact with the idler rollers for minimizing vibration of the counter top during rotation.

Abstract: An improved overhead heater assembly fixed to a rotating cafeteria type food service counter. The improved heater assembly includes infrared type radiant heater rod elements disposed concentrically above the counter's hot food section, the number of heater rods provided being equal to the number of step sections in the counter's hot food section. The heater rods are combined with radiant heat reflectors and heater switches in a single hood unit that permits varying the heat between the inner periphery and the outer periphery of the rotating counter as desired by an operator. Light bulbs interposed between at least two of the heater rods serve to illuminate the food positioned in the counter's hot food section.