Cafe Chic: Elevating Your Dining Experience With Stylish Dinnerware Sets

Cafe style dinnerware sets are a great way to bring a casual yet elevated look to your dining table. These sets often feature stoneware or porcelain plates, bowls, and mugs with a simple yet stylish design. The colour palette tends to be muted pastels, ivory, or classic white, with some sets featuring a pop of colour on the rim. Cafe style dinnerware is usually microwave and dishwasher-safe, making it a practical and attractive choice for everyday use.

Dinnerware sets for special occasions

Best Overall: Fiesta 4-Piece Dinnerware Place Setting

This four-piece place setting is available in a variety of beautiful shades, all in the classic Fiesta style. The set includes a dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, and mug, but Fiesta also offers a ton of matching pieces, from bakeware and pitchers to butter dishes and serving platters. The classic set is extremely sturdy and each piece will stand the test of time with the proper care.

Best Budget: Amazon Basics 16-Piece Dinnerware Set

This classic white dinnerware set has a contemporary and timeless appeal. The budget-conscious and durable porcelain set comes with dinner plates, bowls, dessert plates, and mugs. The plates do not retain heat when used in the microwave or oven, so you can grab them without fear of scorched fingers.

Best Stoneware: West Elm Textured Stoneware Dinnerware

These dishes may be neutral, but there’s nothing boring about them. The color is more of a warm cream than a true white, and each piece is adorned with different textured patterns that bring visual interest to the table. The heavyweight and delicate stoneware material makes this set prone to chipping, so use extra caution when handling it.

Best Melamine: Zak Designs Confetti Melamine 12-Piece Dinnerware Set

Using the same confetti style, the brand has created a playful set of durable melamine dinnerware that is simple enough to haul out to the back patio for dinner and lightweight enough for a picnic in the park or your next camping trip. The 12-piece set is available in six different colors and includes place settings for four people: a dinner plate, salad plate, and bowl.

Best Contemporary: Our Place Dinnerware Set

Featured in both food and fashion publications, Our Place has created a minimal and contemporary dinnerware set that maintains its warmth and homeyness with a slightly rustic appeal. The modern, minimalistic design, which can coordinate well with many flatware and silverware sets, was more beautiful in person than in photos, and each piece stacked wonderfully to make for super simple and attractive storage.

Best China: Red Vanilla Extreme Bone China Dinnerware Set

Delicate edges and sleek swoops make this "Extreme" white set from Red Vanilla quite beautiful. Although it looks refined and elegant in appearance, it is sturdy enough to be cleaned in the dishwasher and used in the microwave. While these porcelain plates are plenty durable, you'll still want to take care not to chip the corners when stacking and storing.

Best Eco-Friendly: Fable New York Colorful Bamboo Dinnerware

Made from organic bamboo fiber, non-GMO corn starch, and a food-grade BPA-free melamine binding, this eco-friendly dinnerware set is available in a palette of beautiful summery hues. The design effortlessly transitions from the dining room table to a backyard barbecue. The finish on the bamboo material is rather dull and papery, which doesn't feel the best on hands, but it kept food in place and resisted both scratching and staining.

Best Formal: Lenox French Perle 4-Piece Place Setting

It’s a cliché you’ll hear all the time if you watch cooking shows: We eat with our eyes first. So, if you’re having company over or setting the table for a formal occasion, you’ll want to use dinnerware that looks particularly lovely. This Lenox set is made out of stoneware and available in two colors, white and ice blue. The rims have a sweet, textured design on the sides and a hand-applied finish.

Dinnerware sets for everyday use

Dinnerware sets are an essential part of any kitchen, and choosing the right set for everyday use can elevate your dining experience. Here are some factors to consider when selecting dinnerware sets for everyday use, along with some specific product recommendations to get you started:

Material

The material of your dinnerware set is an important consideration. Stoneware, porcelain, and ceramic are all popular options, each with its own unique characteristics. Stoneware, for example, is known for its durability and earthy textures, while porcelain offers a more elegant and refined look. Ceramic dinnerware sets often have a handmade, artisanal feel to them.

Durability and Maintenance

Everyday dinnerware sets should be durable and easy to maintain. Look for options that are dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe, and oven-safe if you plan to use them for a variety of purposes. Some materials, like stoneware, are known for their durability, while others may require more careful handling.

Style and Design

The style and design of your dinnerware set can enhance your dining experience and complement your kitchen's aesthetic. Consider the shape of the plates and bowls—round, square, or free-form edges can create different visual effects. Also, think about the glaze and color—matte or glossy finishes, muted pastels, or bold colors can all make a statement.

Quantity and Versatility

Everyday dinnerware sets should include a variety of pieces such as dinner plates, salad plates, bowls, and mugs to cover all your mealtime needs. Consider your household size and how often you entertain guests to determine the appropriate quantity. Versatile sets that can be dressed up or down for different occasions are always a good choice.

• Amazon Basics 16-Piece Cafe Stripe Kitchen Dinnerware Set: This set includes plates, bowls, and mugs for four people and comes in elegant color combinations like grey with contemporary trim or classic white with blue trim. It's made of durable, lightweight AB-grade porcelain and is safe for use in the microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher.
• Gibson Home 12-Piece Plaza Cafe Round Dinnerware Set: This set includes dinner plates, dessert plates, and cereal/salad/soup bowls for four people. It's made of stoneware with a beautiful solid black color and an embossed design, adding a touch of sophistication to your table. These dishes are also dishwasher and microwave safe.
• Beau Rush Ceramics Dinner Plates: For a more unique and artisanal look, Beau Rush offers handmade ceramic dinner plates with uneven edges and a raw, unglazed finish. Their plates are available in a variety of colors, including blush pink, turquoise, and ivory, and will surely make a statement at your dinner table.
• East Fork Pottery Stoneware Plates: These stoneware plates from East Fork Pottery have a hefty, sturdy style and come in a range of dusty, muted colors. They are an excellent choice for those seeking an American-made option, as the company is based in Asheville, North Carolina.
• Mud Australia Dinner Plates: If you're willing to invest in handmade, Australian-made dinnerware, Mud Australia offers simple yet stylish dinner plates with a lip around the rim. Their plates come in a variety of candy-colored glazes, including light blue, blush pink, pistachio green, and Easter yellow.

These are just a few examples of dinnerware sets that can elevate your everyday dining experience. Consider your personal style, practical needs, and budget when making your choice, and don't be afraid to mix and match to create a unique tablescape that reflects your taste!

Dinnerware sets by colour

Dinnerware sets are available in a variety of colours and styles, from simple white ceramic plates to colourful stoneware sets. Here is a selection of dinnerware sets organised by colour:

White Dinnerware Sets

White dinnerware sets are a classic choice for a simple, elegant table setting. Here are some options:

• Amazon Basics 16-piece porcelain kitchen dinnerware set in white
• Gibson Home Oslo porcelain dinnerware set in white
• Gibson Home 16-piece dinnerware set in white
• 18th Street Collection from Crate & Barrel
• Farmhouse Collection from Crate & Barrel
• Gibson Elite Soho Lounge stoneware dinnerware set

Blue Dinnerware Sets

Blue dinnerware sets can evoke a coastal or nautical feel. Here are some options:

• Amazon Basics 16-piece cafe stripe kitchen dinnerware set in blue
• Gibson Elite Althea stoneware dinnerware set
• Gibson Elite Soho Lounge stoneware dinnerware set
• Euro Ceramica Zanzibar stoneware dinnerware set
• Gibson Home Brist melamine plastic dinnerware set
• Certified International Valencia dinner plates

Red Dinnerware Sets

Red dinnerware sets can add a bold pop of colour to your table. Here are some options:

• Gibson Home 12-piece Plaza Cafe round dinnerware set in red
• Gibson Elite Althea stoneware dinnerware set
• Gibson Home Stoneware dinnerware set
• Gibson Elite Capetown assorted colour reactive glaze stoneware dinnerware set
• Laurie Gates by Gibson hand-painted Tierra mix-and-match dinnerware set

Green Dinnerware Sets

Green dinnerware sets can bring a natural, earthy feel to your table. Here are some options:

• Amazon Basics 16-piece cafe stripe kitchen dinnerware set in green
• Sango Resona stoneware dinnerware set
• Elama Round stoneware embossed dinnerware dish set in green
• Gibson Elite Soho Lounge stoneware dinnerware set
• 18th Street Collection from Crate & Barrel

Black Dinnerware Sets

Black dinnerware sets can be sleek and modern or rustic and earthy. Here are some options:

• Amazon Basics 16-piece cafe stripe kitchen dinnerware set in black
• Gibson Home 12-piece Plaza Cafe round dinnerware set in black
• Crisp matte black dinner plate from Crate & Barrel
• Moonrock dinner plate from Crate & Barrel
• Hasami porcelain plate in black from Crate & Barrel
• Wren dinnerware set from Crate & Barrel

Multi-Coloured Dinnerware Sets

Multi-coloured dinnerware sets can be playful and fun, or elegant and sophisticated. Here are some options:

• Latitude Run Tanglewood 12-piece dinnerware set
• Certified International Tunisian Sunset 16-piece dinnerware set
• Bungalow Rose Mandala porcelain china dinnerware set
• Joss & Main Lilwenn stoneware dinnerware set
• Bungalow Rose Doranna porcelain china dinnerware set
• Famiware stoneware dinnerware set

Dinnerware sets by material

Dinnerware sets come in a variety of materials, each with its own unique qualities, pros, cons, and price points. Here is a detailed breakdown of the most common materials used for dinnerware sets:

Earthenware

Earthenware is a type of ceramic that has been glazed and fired. It tends to be less expensive than other types of dinnerware and is commonly used for hand-painted designs. Earthenware has a thick, heavy, and rustic look and feel. However, it is not as durable as other materials and is prone to chipping. It is often porous, so it should not be left submerged in water for extended periods. Most glazed earthenware is dishwasher and microwave safe, but it's always good to check with the manufacturer.

Stoneware

Stoneware is another type of fired ceramic dinnerware that is typically more durable than earthenware. It is made by firing clay at higher temperatures and usually includes vitreous (glass) material for added strength. Stoneware has a thicker and more opaque body than finer materials like porcelain and china. It often features a glaze with a shiny, satin, or matte finish. Stoneware is commonly used for casual, everyday place settings and is generally microwave, dishwasher, oven, and freezer-safe. However, it should not be exposed to sudden or extreme temperature changes. Brands associated with stoneware include Pfaltzgraff, Dansk (Lenox), and Fiesta (Homer Laughlin).

Porcelain/China

Porcelain and china are terms used for dinnerware made from fine-particle clay, typically a combination of feldspar, kaolin, and quartz. This material is fired at high temperatures, resulting in extremely durable and non-porous dinnerware. The high firing temperature allows for thinner construction and the addition of shaped details. Most porcelain and china dinnerware are dishwasher, microwave, and oven-safe, unless they have gold, silver, or platinum borders. Porcelain often has an upscale look, making it suitable for formal dining occasions, but it can also be used for everyday meals. Popular brands for porcelain dinnerware include Lenox, Noritake, and Villeroy & Boch.

Bone China

Bone china is created by combining bone ash (made from animal bones) with porcelain clay and firing it at a slightly lower temperature than porcelain. This process results in a lightweight, delicate, and translucent material with a milky appearance. Despite its fragile appearance, bone china is the strongest and most durable ceramic dinnerware. It is generally dishwasher, microwave, and oven-safe, unless it has metallic banding. Well-known brands for bone china include Royal Doulton, Wedgewood, and Mikasa.

Melamine

Melamine dinnerware is made of plastic and is known for its indestructibility and glossy finish. It is lightweight yet sturdy and inflexible. Melamine is ideal for children and outdoor use. It is usually dishwasher-safe on the top rack but should not be used in the microwave or oven, and it should not be heated with food in it. Melamine is also BPA-free. Zak! Designs is a popular brand for melamine dinnerware.

Vitrified Glass

Vitrified glass is created by firing glass at extremely high temperatures, resulting in a non-porous and extremely durable material. The best-known brand of vitrified glass dinnerware is Corelle, which is virtually indestructible and safe for use in the dishwasher and microwave. Vitrified glass is an excellent choice for children or outdoor use due to its durability.

Dinnerware sets by brand

There are several brands that offer cafe-style dinnerware sets. Here is a list of some popular brands:

Amazon Basics

Amazon Basics offers a 16-piece cafe-style dinnerware set in various colours, including grey, black, and blue. The set includes plates, bowls, and mugs for four people and is made of AB-grade porcelain. It is lightweight, durable, and BPA-free. The set is also dishwasher, microwave, oven, and freezer-safe.

Gibson Home

Gibson Home offers the Plaza Cafe 12-piece dinnerware set in black. The set includes dinner plates, dessert plates, and soup/salad/cereal bowls for four people. It is made of stoneware, suitable for a wide range of table settings, and is dishwasher and microwave safe.

Beau Rush Ceramics

Beau Rush Ceramics offers handmade dinner plates with a unique glaze pattern. Their products are used at De Maria, a restaurant nominated for a James Beard Award for Best Restaurant Design.

Jono Pandolfi Designs

Jono Pandolfi is a ceramics designer based in New Jersey, counting Eleven Madison Park and Gramercy Tavern among his clients. The Coupe 7-piece place setting is a polished set of restaurant-grade tableware that still feels personal for home use.

East Fork Pottery

East Fork Pottery offers sturdy stoneware plates and mugs in a variety of colours, including burnt rose. Their products are handmade in the USA, with a newer, bigger factory in Asheville, North Carolina.

Mud Australia

Mud Australia offers simple and stylish dinner plates handmade in Sydney, Australia. Their plates come in a variety of candy-coloured glazes, including light blue, blush pink, pistachio green, and Easter yellow.

Crate and Barrel

Crate and Barrel offers a range of dinnerware collections, including the Marin and Wren collections, which feature reactive and matte glazes. Their dinner plates are priced at $14.95 and $16.95, respectively.

Wayfair

Wayfair offers a variety of dinnerware sets, such as the Gibson Elite Soho Lounge Stoneware Dinnerware Set and the Ten Strawberry Street Wazee Matte Stoneware Dinnerware Set. These sets typically include dinner plates, dessert plates, bowls, and mugs for four people and are made of stoneware or porcelain.

Frequently asked questions