The Ultimate Guide To Finding The Perfect Dinnerware Set

Dinnerware sets the table for memorable meals and offer an opportunity to express your personal style. The best place to buy dinnerware depends on your budget, style preferences, and the purpose of the set. Here are some recommended retailers for different types of dinnerware sets:

- Amazon: Amazon offers a wide range of dinnerware sets, including the popular Gibson brand, which provides sleek, match-all, and practical options for entertaining. Amazon also has its own Amazon Basics line, offering classic and modern designs at affordable prices.

- Frontgate: Frontgate is a retailer that offers exquisite dinnerware sets, although the prices may be higher than other options.

- West Elm: West Elm is known for its modern and stylish home goods, and its dinnerware sets are no exception. The store offers a range of contemporary designs, including stoneware and melamine sets.

- Williams Sonoma: Williams Sonoma carries high-quality dinnerware sets from well-known brands like Pillivuyt and Apilco, as well as its own in-house brand, Open Kitchen. You can find elegant and timeless designs at this retailer.

- Crate and Barrel: Crate and Barrel offers a range of dinnerware sets, including the 18th Street 16-Piece Dinnerware Set, which is a popular choice for wedding registries and has a unique, vivid black glaze.

- Le Creuset: While known primarily for its cookware, Le Creuset also offers elegant dinnerware sets. You can find bold colours, different glazes, and stylish collections to elevate your dining experience.

- Wayfair: Wayfair is an online retailer that offers a vast selection of dinnerware sets to suit any budget and style. You can find both affordable and high-end options on their website.

- Specialty Pottery Studios: If you're looking for unique, handmade dinnerware, consider exploring small pottery studios. These studios offer a range of organic shapes, rustic designs, and custom glazes. However, keep in mind that availability and pricing may vary, and shipping can be expensive.

Dinnerware materials

Stoneware

Also known as ceramics, stoneware is a popular choice for dinnerware due to its durability and rustic look. It is thicker and heavier than other materials such as porcelain, making it sturdier and less prone to chipping. Stoneware often has a minimal or rustic appearance, making it suitable for everyday use. Some brands that offer stoneware dinnerware include Fable, Material, and Gibson. However, stoneware is more susceptible to staining and may require extra care when cleaning.

Porcelain

Porcelain dinnerware is known for its glossy appearance and elegance. It is slightly less durable than stoneware but is still chip-resistant and can be safely used in the dishwasher and microwave. Porcelain dinnerware is a good option for formal occasions as well as everyday use. Stone Lain is a recommended brand for porcelain dinnerware, offering beautiful and affordable sets.

Glass

Glass dinnerware offers a modern and elegant option for your table. However, it is more fragile than other materials and may not be suitable for households with young children. Luminarc is a recommended brand for glass dinnerware, offering dishwasher and microwave-safe options made in France.

Bamboo and Wood

Bamboo and wood dinnerware are eco-friendly options that bring a natural and minimalist look to your table. However, they are not suitable for acidic foods as they can stain the material.

Bone China

Bone china has a glossy and regal appearance, similar to porcelain. It is made with bone ash, which gives it an extremely delicate quality. Due to its fragility, bone china is often reserved for special occasions. The Gibson Elite Collection is a recommended bone china set, offering an embossed design at an affordable price.

Melamine

Melamine dinnerware is made of plastic, making it lightweight, durable, and affordable. It is a practical option for everyday use and outdoor dining. While melamine may be considered less elegant than other materials, there are brands that offer stylish and eye-catching designs. The Gibson Home Rockabye Dinnerware Set is a popular choice, with over 10,000 reviews on Amazon.

Dinnerware styles

Contemporary Style

Contemporary dinnerware sets are ideal for those seeking a modern and timeless look. These sets typically feature solid colours or simple designs, such as stripes or dots, and often have clean, sleek lines. Contemporary dinnerware is usually made from materials like porcelain or stoneware and can be safely used in the dishwasher, microwave, and even the oven in some cases. This style is perfect for everyday use or for creating a stylish tablescape during festive gatherings.

Traditional Style

Traditional dinnerware sets exude elegance and sophistication. They often feature ornate details such as scalloped rims, delicate beading, or basketweave patterns. Brightly coloured plates and patterned designs also lean towards a more traditional or vintage aesthetic. Fine china is a classic choice for formal dinners and special occasions, while porcelain or stoneware sets with intricate designs can add a touch of luxury to your dining experience.

Rustic Style

Rustic dinnerware evokes a sense of warmth and homeliness. Handcrafted stoneware with unglazed rims or earthenware with a rustic look and textured surfaces fall into this category. These sets often have earthy tones and a matte or glossy finish. While rustic dinnerware sets can be used for everyday meals, they also lend themselves well to creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere during family gatherings or special occasions.

Minimalist Style

Minimalist dinnerware is characterised by clean lines, simple shapes, and neutral colours. White dinnerware sets are a popular choice among minimalists as they provide a blank canvas for culinary creations and can be easily mixed and matched with other tableware. Minimalist styles often prioritise functionality and versatility, making them suitable for both casual and formal dining experiences. Porcelain and stoneware are common materials for minimalist dinnerware due to their durability and elegant appearance.

Eclectic Style

Eclectic dinnerware embraces a mix-and-match aesthetic, combining different colours, patterns, and textures. This style is perfect for those who want to express their creativity and individuality through their tableware. Eclectic dinnerware can be curated by collecting pieces from various sets or by intentionally choosing sets with complementary designs. This style is ideal for those who enjoy frequently changing their table setting or incorporating unique pieces that deviate from traditional dinnerware.

Dinnerware sets for different occasions

Dinnerware sets are an essential part of any dining experience, and choosing the right set can elevate your meal to the next level. Here are some recommendations for dinnerware sets for different occasions:

Formal Occasions:

• Fable New York Colorful Bamboo Dinnerware: This eco-friendly set is made from bamboo fibre, corn starch and melamine, resulting in a durable yet stylish set. The beautiful summery hues will add a cheerful pop of colour to your table.
• Lenox French Perle 4-Piece Place Setting: This stoneware set has a textured design on the rims, giving it a sweet and ornamental look. It is available in two colours, white and ice blue, and comes with a lifetime replacement program for broken dishes.
• Red Vanilla Extreme Bone China Dinnerware Set: This lightweight and high-quality set has delicate edges and sleek swoops, making it both elegant and sturdy. The glossy finish and ultra-modern design will make your meals pop.

Everyday Use:

• Amazon Basics 16-Piece Dinnerware Set: This classic white porcelain set is an excellent choice for those looking for something simple and budget-friendly. The set is lightweight, durable, and safe for the microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher.
• Our Place Dinnerware Set: This set from Our Place is perfect for those who want something modern and minimalistic. The set is made from recycled and sustainably-sourced porcelain and is easy to stack, making it a great space-saving option.
• Gibson Round Stoneware 16-piece Dinnerware Set: This stoneware set from Gibson is an excellent option for those who want something durable yet stylish. The smooth flat finish with a matte glaze gives it a fancy look, making it perfect for both everyday use and dinner parties.

Outdoor Dining:

• Zak Designs Confetti Melamine 12-Piece Dinnerware Set: This playful and attractive set from Zak Designs is made from melamine, making it durable and lightweight. The set includes dinner plates, salad plates, and bowls, perfect for enjoying meals outdoors.
• Trenblay Melamine Dinnerware Set: This modern and sophisticated set from Home Depot is made from melamine and comes in two colours, Natural Beige and Charcoal Black. It is an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor dining.
• Year&Day Outdoor Core Set: This set from Year&Day is made from biodegradable natural plant fibres and bamboo flecking, making it a sustainable and stylish option. The set includes plates, bowls, and cups, perfect for outdoor dining.

Dinnerware maintenance

Proper Handling of Dinnerware

Avoid stacking and overcrowding your dinnerware. Stacking can result in cracking, chipping, and scratching. Instead, store your dinnerware in a dry, cool area with minimal exposure to sunlight, as heat and moisture can cause warping or cracking. Use protective dividers, such as felt or foam, between each piece to prevent scratching and distribute weight evenly.

Safe Storage of Dinnerware

Find a suitable storage space for your dinnerware, such as a cupboard or pantry. Use protective dividers and practice proper stacking techniques, such as placing larger plates at the bottom and avoiding stacking too many plates together.

Cleaning and Maintenance of Dinnerware

Choose the right cleaning products. Mild dish soap and warm water are typically best for cleaning dinnerware. Avoid abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals, which can scratch or damage the surface. You can also use natural cleaning products like vinegar or baking soda to remove tough stains and odours. Practise safe dishwasher practices by reading the user's manual, avoiding overloading, and using appropriate temperatures and detergents.

Periodic Inspection

Regularly inspect your dinnerware for chips, cracks, or scratches, as these can weaken the structure and make the pieces more susceptible to damage. If you notice any damage, stop using the affected pieces and consider replacing them.

Dinnerware by price range

Dinnerware sets can be purchased at a variety of price points, ranging from a few dollars per piece to hundreds of dollars for a five-piece set. Here is a list of dinnerware sets, categorised by price range:

Budget-friendly options (under $100)

• Amazon Basics 16-piece Dinnerware Set ($48)
• Trenblay Melamine Dinnerware Set ($40)
• Corelle Winter Frost Dinnerware Set ($40)
• Crate and Barrel Aspen Rimmed Dinnerware Set ($6 per dinner plate)
• Ikea's FÄRGRIK range of tableware ($25 per set)
• Mosser Colored Glass Dinnerware Set ($25 per dinner plate)
• Year&Day Outdoor Core Set ($240 for a 16-piece set)

Mid-range options ($100-$200)

• Le Creuset 16-piece Dinnerware Set ($250)
• Jars Cantine Collection ($40 per dinner plate)
• Kinto Porcelain CLK-151 Collection ($30 per dinner plate)
• Jono Pandolfi The Coupe Collection ($150 for a four-piece place setting)
• Fable New York Colorful Bamboo Dinnerware ($32)
• East Fork Pottery ($145 for a five-piece set)
• Heath Ceramics Rim Line ($130 for a three-piece place setting)
• Mikasa Delray Collection ($110 for a 16-piece set)

High-end options ($200+)

• Leeway Home The Full Way Set ($275)
• Lorenzo & Royalty Porcelain (up to $350)
• Red Vanilla Extreme Bone China Dinnerware Set ($184)
• Our Place Dinnerware Set (prices vary)
• Williams Sonoma Beaded Coupe Dinnerware Set ($443 for a 30-pack)
• Wedgewood Renaissance Gold 5-piece Dinnerware Set ($265)

Frequently asked questions