<P> Traditionally, kitchens in Asia have been more open format than those of the West . The function of the pantry was generally served by wooden cabinetry . For example, in Japan, a kitchen cabinet is called a "Mizuya Tansu". A substantial tradition around woodworking and cabinetry in general developed in Japan, especially throughout the Tokugawa period . A huge number of designs for tansu (chests or cabinets) were made, each tailored towards one specific purpose or another . </P> <P> The idea is very similar to that of the Hoosier cabinet, with a wide variety of functions being served by specific design innovations . </P> <P> A butler's pantry or serving pantry is a utility room in a large house, primarily used to store serving items, rather than food . Traditionally, a butler's pantry was used for cleaning, counting, and storage of silver; European butlers often slept in the pantry, as their job was to keep the silver under lock and key . The merchant's account books and wine log may also have been kept in there . The room would be used by the butler and other domestic staff; it is often called a butler's pantry even in households where there is no butler . </P> <P> In modern homes, butler's pantries are usually located in transitional spaces between kitchens and dining rooms, and used as staging areas for serving meals . They commonly contain countertops, and storage for candles, serving pieces, table linens, tableware, wine, and other dining room articles . More elaborate versions may include dishwashers, refrigerators, or sinks . </P>

What's the point of a butler's pantry
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