A dumbwaiter is a small freight elevator used to transport food, dishes, or other items between different floors of a building. Typically found in restaurants, hotels, and private homes, it helps reduce the need for staff to carry heavy loads up and down stairs. The design usually consists of a box-like compartment that moves vertically through a shaft. Operated manually or electrically, dumbwaiters can be a practical solution for improving efficiency in service areas. They are often associated with kitchens and dining rooms, making it easier to serve meals without interrupting the flow of service.