What is the fewest number of receptacles required by the NEC® for a 20-foot stainless steel countertop in a restaurant with two sinks?

In accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC), receptacle requirements for kitchen countertops are defined under specific conditions. For a stainless steel countertop in a restaurant setting that features two sinks, it is pertinent to note that the presence of sinks often changes compliance requirements for receptacles.

The NEC does not mandate receptacles to be installed directly above or in proximity to a sink, provided there is no countertop space that necessitates it, especially in professional food service environments where the focus is typically on the equipment and appliances rather than convenience outlets.

Since the question specifies a 20-foot countertop with two sinks, it does not specify any additional countertop space that would require receptacles, meaning the code does not apply. Therefore, based on this interpretation, having no receptacles is permissible. Consequently, the minimum number of receptacles required in this specific scenario would indeed be zero, because the design and purpose of the space do not warrant their installation under NEC guidelines.