Ceramic Dinnerware: Elevate Your Dining Experience

There are a lot of options when it comes to ceramic dinnerware, and it can be hard to know where to start. Here's a quick intro to some of the best ceramic dinnerware sets out there.

First up, we have the Jono Pandolfi Coupe Collection. This collection is all about sturdy, earthy, and elegant dinnerware. The clay is sourced from the northeastern US, and the set has a warm and homey feel. The Coupe Collection is thicker and heftier than your average stoneware, and its rounded, smooth edges give it a clean and modern look.

Next, we have the East Fork 7-Piece You're-All-Set Set. This set is perfect if you're looking for something a little more artful and unique. East Fork is based in Asheville, North Carolina, and is known for its durable tableware made from clay and baked in a wood-fired kiln. This seven-piece set includes a breakfast bowl, cake plate, and more.

If you're looking for something a little more classic, check out the Williams Sonoma Brasserie Porcelain 16-Piece Dinnerware Set. This set has a substantial feel but still looks refined and elegant, with a bistro look featuring blue stripes and extra-wide rims. It includes soup bowls, mugs, and plates, and extra sets of bowls, plates, and mugs are available for purchase.

For those who want something modern, the Hawkins New York Essential Stoneware Dinnerware set is a great option. This set features short, straight walls and concentric circles on the surface of the plates, giving it a contemporary look. It also comes with two bowls, which we loved—especially the pasta bowl, which was large enough to function as a dinner bowl.

Finally, for those who want a luxurious and beautifully designed set, check out the Villeroy & Boch Artesano 4-Piece Place Setting. This German-made set features a flat rim and a creamy, off-white color that feels classic yet modern. We especially loved the small, tapered mug with a slightly squared-off handle—it felt lovely to hold and drink from.

There are so many great options when it comes to ceramic dinnerware, and these are just a few of our favorites!

Dinnerware for everyday use

Dinnerware is an important part of setting the scene for a great dining experience. Whether you're looking for something simple and timeless or a more unique, handmade set, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some recommendations for ceramic dinnerware sets that are perfect for everyday use:

Williams Sonoma Open Kitchen 16-Piece Dinnerware Set

This is a crowd-pleasing set that you can't go wrong with. It's an all-white set that includes dinner and salad plates with wide rims and small bowls suitable for cereal or soup. The dinnerware is microwave and dishwasher-safe, and additional plates, bowls, and mugs can be purchased separately. It's a great option if you're looking for something classic and functional.

Made In The Tabletop Set

If you're looking for a more comprehensive set, the Made In The Tabletop Set is a great choice. This porcelain set includes dinner plates, appetizer plates, bread and butter plates, side bowls, and spacious entree bowls, along with a serving platter and stainless steel flatware. The pieces have beautiful, glossy finishes and colorful rims, giving it a classic yet striking look. It's a bit pricey, but you get a lot for your money, and additional sets of plates and bowls can be purchased separately.

Dansk Cafe Blanc Stripe Porcelain Dinnerware

This set reminds us of elegant diner ware, with a simple yet timeless aesthetic. It includes dinner plates, salad plates, mugs, and rimmed soup bowls, all with wide rims that are easy to hold. The bowls are suitable for pasta or salad, and the set has a nice heft to it, making it feel substantial and durable. It's dishwasher and microwave-safe, and replacement plates and bowls can be purchased on the Dansk website.

Williams Sonoma Brasserie Porcelain 16-Piece Dinnerware Set

This set has a bistro look with blue stripes and extra-wide rims. It feels substantial yet refined, making it perfect for everyday use. The set includes dinner plates, salad plates, soup bowls, and mugs, and the soup bowls are wide and flared, making them suitable for pasta as well. Additional sets of bowls, plates, and mugs are available for purchase, along with matching cereal bowls.

Hawkins New York Essential Stoneware Dinnerware

If you're looking for a modern look, the Hawkins New York set is a great option. It features short, straight walls and concentric circles on the surface of the plates. The set includes two bowls, with the pasta bowl being extremely large and versatile. The plates didn't scratch during our tests, and the set comes in a range of fun colors. Additional plates, bowls, mugs, and pinch bowls are available for purchase.

Le Creuset San Francisco Coupe 16-Piece Dinnerware Set

The Le Creuset dinnerware set is a durable and lightweight option, featuring three concentric rings on each piece, reminiscent of their iconic Dutch oven. The pieces feel substantial yet casual, and the mugs are the perfect size for coffee or tea. You can choose between pasta or cereal bowls, and additional plates and bowls are available for purchase.

These are just a few examples of ceramic dinnerware sets that are perfect for everyday use. When choosing a set, consider your personal style, the number of pieces you need, and your budget.

Dinnerware for special occasions

Dinnerware is an essential part of hosting a special occasion, be it a dinner party or a fancy meal for yourself. It's more than just vessels for holding and serving food; it's an extension of your style and helps create the right ambiance for the occasion. Here are some recommendations for ceramic dinnerware sets for special occasions:

Our Place Dinnerware Set

This set includes four full plates, four midi plates, four demi plates, four midi bowls, and four demi bowls. It has a modern, minimalistic design that can easily be coordinated with flatware and silverware sets. The set is made from recycled and sustainably sourced porcelain and is dishwasher, microwave, and oven safe. The raised sides on the plates prevent food from rolling off, and the pieces stack well for compact storage. However, the plates and bowls can get very hot in the microwave, so it's recommended to use gloves when reheating food.

Fable Base Dinnerware Set

Fable is a Canada-based dinnerware brand that offers an array of options, including the Base collection, which is one of its most affordable sets. The four-piece set includes dinner plates, salad plates, pasta bowls, and breakfast bowls in a variety of muted hues, from blush pink to a speckled finish. The pieces have smooth, rounded, natural curves and are made from stoneware, making them microwave, oven, and dishwasher-safe.

Jono Pandolfi Coupe Place Setting

Jono Pandolfi is a renowned ceramist whose work can be found in restaurants like Eleven Madison Park and Lilia. This four-piece place setting includes an entrée plate, a salad plate, a cereal bowl, and the fan-favorite Alaska bowl, originally designed for Eleven Madison Park's dessert course. The set has a semi-matte satin finish, but if you prefer something without slight silverware marks, you can opt for the glossy Milk glaze instead.

East Fork Dinnerware Set

East Fork is known for its Instagram-famous mug, and its dinnerware sets are just as impressive. The set includes dinner plates, side plates, mugs, and bowls, and you can choose from a range of glazes, including a very '70s Harvest Moon colorway. The pieces have a handmade feel, and the company also gives back to its community by fundraising for North Carolina-based nonprofits and organizations each quarter.

Williams Sonoma Brasserie Porcelain 16-Piece Dinnerware Set

This set gives off a bistro vibe with its blue stripes and extra-wide rims. It includes dinner plates, salad plates, soup bowls, and mugs, and each piece has a glossy finish. The soup bowls are wide and flared, making them suitable for pasta as well. The slim mug is comfortable to hold and drink from, and the set is dishwasher, microwave, and oven-safe up to 480°F.

Villeroy & Boch Artesano 4-Piece Place Setting

This German-made set exudes elegance and modernity with its creamy, off-white color and flat rims. The set includes a dinner plate, a salad plate, a bowl, and a small, tapered mug with a slightly squared-off handle. The pieces are dishwasher and microwave-safe, and you can purchase additional mugs, plates, and bowls individually.

Dinnerware for a casual get-together

Dinnerware is an essential component of any get-together, casual or formal. While paper plates and plastic utensils might be convenient, they are not environmentally friendly and can detract from the overall ambiance of your gathering. Investing in a good set of ceramic dinnerware is, therefore, a worthwhile decision. Here are some options for dinnerware sets that will impress your guests and elevate your casual get-together:

Jono Pandolfi Designs:

Jono Pandolfi is a renowned ceramicist who has crafted custom dinnerware for top restaurants around the world. The Jono Pandolfi Coupe 4-Piece Place Setting includes dinner plates, cereal bowls, and mugs, with each piece thick yet elegant, making them ideal for everyday use or classy dinner parties. The brand also offers a range of glazes and profiles, allowing you to create a unique tablescape.

East Fork:

East Fork is a pottery brand co-founded by Connie Matisse and based in Asheville, North Carolina. Their 7-Piece You're-All-Set Set offers a comprehensive collection that includes a breakfast bowl, cake plate, dinner plate, side plate, mug, and two types of bowls. The pieces are made from clay and baked in a wood-fired kiln, resulting in a durable and charming tableware set.

Our Place:

Known for their popular Always Pan and Perfect Pot, Our Place also offers a range of tabletop essentials. Their dinnerware set includes Full Plates, Midi Plates, Midi Bowls, Demi Plates, and Demi Bowls, providing a variety of sizes to suit different courses and serving portions. The pieces feature a straight edge for a modern look and are designed to stack neatly, making storage convenient.

Williams Sonoma:

Williams Sonoma's Open Kitchen 16-Piece Dinnerware Set is an excellent choice if you're looking for a crowd-pleasing option. This all-white set includes dinner and salad plates with wide rims, along with small bowls suitable for cereal or soup starters. The set is microwave and dishwasher-safe, and additional plates, bowls, and mugs can be purchased separately.

Le Creuset:

Le Creuset is a well-known brand for its durable and stylish stoneware. Their San Francisco Coupe 16-Piece Dinnerware Set includes dinner plates, salad plates, mugs, and a choice of pasta or cereal bowls. The pieces feature three concentric rings, reminiscent of their iconic Dutch oven lid, and come in a range of colors. Le Creuset dinnerware is known for its durability, making it a good investment for everyday use.

These options provide a mix of styles, from classic all-white sets to more modern and colorful designs. Investing in a good set of ceramic dinnerware will not only elevate your casual get-together but also provide you with a long-lasting and environmentally friendly alternative to disposable plates and utensils.

Dinnerware for a formal dinner party

Hosting a formal dinner party is a great way to bring people together and create lasting memories. Here are some tips and recommendations for choosing the perfect ceramic dinnerware to elevate your dining experience:

Consider Your Guest List and Occasion:

The formality of your dinner party and the number of guests you plan to invite will influence the amount and style of dinnerware you need. For a formal dinner party, it is generally advisable to have enough dinnerware for each guest, including plates, bowls, and utensils.

Choose a Cohesive Set:

Opt for a matching or complementary dinnerware set to create a cohesive and elegant tablescape. This can include dinner plates, salad or dessert plates, bowls, and mugs or cups. Having matching dinnerware adds a touch of sophistication to your event.

Select the Right Material:

Ceramic dinnerware is a great choice due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Porcelain and stoneware are popular options that offer a nice balance between elegance and practicality. They are typically dishwasher, microwave, and oven-safe, making them ideal for serving and reheating food.

Pay Attention to Details:

Consider the shape and design of the dinnerware. Wide rims or gently sloped walls can provide a nice grip and help contain food. Also, look for sets with two types of bowls—one small and one large—to accommodate different courses or meal preferences.

Think About Durability and Maintenance:

Look for dinnerware that is scratch-resistant and easy to care for. Some ceramic dinnerware may have specific care instructions, so be sure to read and follow the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure the longevity of your investment.

Mix and Match:

Don't be afraid to mix and match different sets or incorporate unique pieces. This can add a touch of personality and creativity to your table setting. You can find beautiful ceramic dinnerware from various brands, including East Fork, Our Place, Le Creuset, and Haand.

Plan Ahead:

If you're hosting a large group, consider renting additional dinnerware or investing in a set that offers service for a higher number of guests. This will ensure you have enough plates, bowls, and utensils for everyone.

Presentation is Key:

Remember that the presentation of your food is just as important as the taste. Choose dinnerware that complements the colours and styles of the dishes you plan to serve. This can enhance the overall dining experience and make your food look even more appetising.

Don't Forget the Extras:

In addition to dinnerware, don't forget to stock up on serving utensils, linen napkins, and any other accessories you may need, such as candle holders or centrepieces, to complete the ambiance of your formal dinner party.

Enjoy the Process:

Finally, remember to have fun with the planning process and don't stress too much about finding the "perfect" dinnerware. Your guests will appreciate your effort, and the most important part is enjoying delicious food and creating memorable moments together.

Dinnerware for a dinner party with guests

Hosting a dinner party is a great way to bring people together and create lasting memories. Here are some tips on choosing the perfect ceramic dinnerware for your next gathering:

Consider Your Guest List:

The number of guests you plan to invite will determine the quantity of dinnerware you need. It's always a good idea to have a few extra place settings in case of last-minute additions or unexpected breaks.

Create a Cohesive Look:

Opt for matching dinner plates, salad or dessert plates, and shallow bowls to achieve a cohesive table setting. This will make your dinner party feel well-put-together and elegant. You can also mix and match pieces from different sets to create a unique, eclectic look.

Choose the Right Material:

Ceramic dinnerware comes in various materials like porcelain, stoneware, and ceramic clay. Porcelain is an extremely durable type of ceramic that is fired at high temperatures, making it an excellent choice for everyday use and special occasions. Stoneware has a more rustic look and feel, while ceramic clay gives your tableware a handcrafted, earthy appeal.

Think About Functionality:

Consider the types of dishes you plan to serve and choose dinnerware that is functional for your menu. For example, if you're serving soup, ensure you have enough bowls, or if you're serving family-style, opt for larger serving platters and bowls.

Add a Personal Touch:

Your dinnerware can reflect your unique style and personality. Choose colours, patterns, or shapes that speak to you and your guests. Whether you prefer classic white dinnerware or something with a pop of colour, there are endless options to choose from.

Invest in Quality:

While it's not necessary to spend a fortune, investing in quality dinnerware will ensure durability and longevity. Look for pieces that are dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe, and oven-safe to make your life easier during the party and cleanup more convenient.

Plan for Convenience:

Consider storage when choosing your dinnerware. Opt for stackable pieces to save space, especially if you're working with a smaller kitchen or limited cabinet space. Additionally, look for dinnerware that is easy to care for and maintain, so you can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your guests' company.

Be Creative with Place Settings:

Don't be afraid to get creative with your place settings. Layer plates, add decorative chargers, or incorporate unique centrepieces to elevate the overall dining experience. You can also include name cards or small favours at each place setting to make your guests feel special.

Don't Forget the Extras:

Remember to include serving utensils, bread baskets, condiment dishes, and other extras that will enhance your dinner party. These additional pieces will ensure a seamless dining experience and impress your guests with your attention to detail.

Enjoy the Process:

Choosing dinnerware for your dinner party should be a fun and exciting part of the planning process. Take your time, browse different options, and select pieces that speak to your style and the tone you want to set for your gathering.

Frequently asked questions