Dinnerware Delights: Exploring The Vibrant Market Of The Philippines

There is a wide range of dinnerware sets available for sale in the Philippines. From luxury brands such as Noritake, Bernardaud, Meissen, Royal Doulton, Lenox, Kate Spade New York, and Hermes, to more affordable options like Crate and Barrel, Melawares, and Mandaue Foam, there is something to suit every taste and budget. Whether you're looking for a contemporary or classic design, stoneware or porcelain, a small set or a large one, you're sure to find the perfect dinnerware collection to elevate your dining experience and make a statement.

Luxury dinnerware sets in Manila

Manila is home to a plethora of luxury dinnerware sets, perfect for those who appreciate elegant tableware. Whether you're a collector of fine china or simply looking for a stylish addition to your dining experience, Manila has something to offer. Here are some notable options:

Noritake

Noritake is a renowned Japanese brand that has been crafting exquisite chinaware since 1904. Their designs encompass a range of styles, from classic and elegant floral patterns to contemporary and geometric motifs. Noritake's dinnerware is used worldwide in hotels, restaurants, and airlines, reflecting its exceptional quality and appeal. You can find Noritake products in various department stores in Manila, including Rustans, SM Department Stores, The Landmark, Gaisano, and Metro Gaisano.

Bernardaud

Bernardaud is a prestigious French brand established in the 18th century. It is recognised as the leading manufacturer of porcelain tableware in France. Bernardaud collaborates with national and international museums to create remarkable replicas of 18th and 19th-century pieces. Their collections include Formal Table, Classic Table, Contemporary Table, Design Table, Historic Table, and White Table, offering a diverse range of styles. You can purchase Bernardaud products at Rustan's in Manila.

Meissen

Meissen is a German brand with a 300-year legacy of creating intricately designed and hand-painted tableware. Their collections showcase exceptional quality, from the materials used to the artistry behind each design. Meissen offers a variety of patterns, including Stripes, Onion Pattern, Royal Blossom, Noble Blue, and Meissen Rose, among others. You can find Meissen products at Rustan's in Manila.

Royal Doulton

Founded in London in 1815, Royal Doulton is a brand that extends beyond dinnerware, offering giftware, cookware, porcelain, glassware, jewellery, and more. They collaborate with renowned artists such as Gordon Ramsay and Ellen Degeneres to create top-notch quality products. Royal Doulton's tableware collection exudes a stylish yet laid-back dining experience. You can explore their collection at Rustan's.

Lenox

Lenox is a brand that stands out for its unique approach, organising itself as an art studio rather than a factory. They specialise in crafting one-of-a-kind pieces made of ivory china, designed to last a lifetime. Lenox offers three types of china: Fine China, Casual Dinnerware, and Holiday Dinnerware. In addition to tableware, they also offer ornaments, figurines, and home decorations. You can find Lenox products at Rustan's in Manila.

Kate Spade New York

Kate Spade New York is a brand that initially gained recognition for its handbags and has since expanded into various lifestyle categories, including bedding, fragrances, jewellery, shoes, and tabletop items. Their dinnerware collection embodies the brand's signature style and spirit, offering a stylish and sophisticated dining experience. You can find their products at Rustan's.

Hermes

Hermes is a French high fashion luxury brand that specialises in a diverse range of products, including leather goods, lifestyle accessories, home furnishings, jewellery, and ready-to-wear apparel. Their porcelain tableware collections draw inspiration from nature, racetracks, Persian miniatures, mosaics, and French places, infusing elegance and creativity into your dining moments. You can visit their store at Greenbelt 3 in Makati City.

In addition to these luxury brands, Manila also offers budget-friendly options for those who want a stylish dining set without breaking the bank. Stores like Robinsons Home Living, Daiso, Yoyoso, and Mandaue Foam offer trendy and affordable dinnerware sets, perfect for those who want a fresh look without sacrificing their budget.

Contemporary table settings

When it comes to contemporary table settings, there are many ways to elevate your dining experience and create a stylish and sophisticated atmosphere. Here are some tips for achieving a modern and elegant look for your table:

Choose the Right Dinnerware

Select dinnerware that reflects a contemporary aesthetic. Opt for sleek and simple designs, such as smooth porcelain or stoneware in soft, soothing hues. You can also experiment with matte finishes, which are very trendy right now. Look for dinnerware sets that offer a mix-and-match colour story, allowing you to curate a unique and personalised table setting.

Play with Shapes

Seasonal Switch-Ups

Changing your dinnerware with the seasons is a great way to keep your table settings fresh and exciting. During warmer months, focus on salad plates and small bites. For autumn, bring out the deep bowls for heartier meals. As the winter holidays approach, formal dishes and silverware can make an appearance, along with centrepieces that anchor your place settings.

Enhance with Chargers

Chargers are ultra-large plates that go underneath dinner plates and on top of placemats. They add visual depth and interest to your table setting. Look for chargers in complementary colours or patterns that enhance the overall aesthetic of your table.

Update Your Glassware

Glassware is an important component of a contemporary table setting. If you're happy with your dishes and flatware, consider upgrading your glassware to complete the look. Whether it's wine glasses, water glasses, or both, choose styles that reflect the contemporary theme while also ensuring they are carefully selected for longevity.

Centrepiece and Decor

A well-chosen centrepiece can anchor your contemporary table setting. Opt for a decorative item that complements the overall aesthetic without overwhelming the table. Flowers or candles in subtle colours can add a touch of elegance, while also keeping the focus on the food and dinnerware.

With these tips, you can create a contemporary table setting that is both stylish and inviting, elevating your dining experience and impressing your guests.

Dinnerware for kids

When it comes to dinnerware for kids, there are several options to choose from that are safe and non-toxic. Here are some recommendations for kid-friendly dinnerware, with a focus on the Philippines market:

IKEA KALAS Children's Dinnerware

IKEA offers a range of children's dinnerware, including the KALAS collection. This collection features durable and scratch-resistant plates, bowls, and utensils that are BPA-free and easy for children to use. The KALAS range is perfect for livening up mealtimes with its vibrant colours, and the items are stackable for easy storage.

Avanchy Bamboo Training Plate Set

Avanchy creates eco-friendly dinnerware for babies and toddlers, including the Bamboo Training Plate Set. This set includes a baby bowl, baby plate, and two spoons made from organic bamboo, food-grade stainless steel, and silicone. The bowl and plate have non-slip silicone suction bottoms to prevent spills, and the set is free from BPA, BPS, PVC, lead, and phthalates.

Elk and Friends Kids Dinnerware

Elk and Friends offer a range of baby and child-friendly dinnerware made from natural materials like ceramic, stainless steel, and food-grade silicone. Their Kids Porcelain & Silicone Divided Plates are a great option, with a porcelain plate and a silicone sleeve for added protection and slip resistance. The set is microwave and dishwasher-safe, and free from BPA, phthalates, and PVC.

Bobo & Boo Kids Dinnerware Set

Bobo & Boo is a mom-owned company that creates eco-friendly and affordable children's dishes made from bamboo and plant-based materials. Their dinnerware set includes food-safe PLA-based plates, cups, and bowls that are BPA and melamine-free. The items are colourful, functional, and safe for both children and the planet.

Amazon and Etsy Options

Both Amazon and Etsy offer a wide range of kids' dinnerware sets. You can find various materials such as bamboo, wheat straw, plastic, and silicone. These sets often include plates, bowls, cups, and utensils, and many are microwave and dishwasher-safe. Some even feature fun designs like Disney characters or colourful illustrations.

When choosing dinnerware for kids, it's important to consider materials that are safe and non-toxic, such as silicone, stainless steel, plant-based options, tempered glass, and enamelware. Avoid plastic and melamine dishes, as these can leach harmful chemicals into food.

Dinnerware for hotels and restaurants

Dinnerware is an essential component of any hotel or restaurant, not only for serving food but also for representing the style and theme of the establishment. When selecting dinnerware for your business, it's crucial to consider factors such as style, colour, material, and shape to ensure they align with the concept of your food service establishment.

China Dinnerware

China dinnerware exudes elegance and sophistication, making it ideal for upscale restaurants and hotels. It comes in a variety of styles, colours, and shapes, allowing you to create a unique tablescape. China is known for its durability, making it suitable for commercial use. Bone china, in particular, is a lightweight and luminous option that is perfect for fine-dining establishments. It is also microwave-friendly and dishwasher-safe.

Porcelain Dinnerware

Porcelain dinnerware offers a blend of durability and classic elegance, making it suitable for catered events, wedding receptions, and other upscale occasions. It is a popular choice for restaurants aiming for a sophisticated and timeless ambiance.

Melamine Dinnerware

Melamine is a stylish and sensible alternative to porcelain and china. It is shatterproof and resistant to breakage and chipping, making it ideal for high-volume, casual restaurants. Melamine dinnerware comes in various beautiful patterns and is typically dishwasher-safe.

Stoneware Dinnerware

Stoneware dinnerware creates a classic yet modern look, perfect for any casual or upscale restaurant. It is a durable option that can withstand the demands of commercial use.

Glass Dinnerware

Glass dinnerware is a versatile option that pairs well with any concept, from cafes and bistros to hotel buffets and fine dining restaurants. Vitrified glass, in particular, is known for its sturdiness and durability. Glass dinnerware can make a refined statement at hotels, bistros, and restaurants.

Wooden Dinnerware

Wooden bowls and plates offer an eco-friendly, functional, and stylish option for hotels and restaurants. They are good insulators of heat and add a natural, rustic touch to your tablescape.

In addition to the material, it is also important to consider the size and durability of the dinnerware. Restaurant dinnerware is typically larger than standard tableware, making it easier to handle in commercial kitchens. It is also designed to be more durable to withstand frequent use, hot surfaces, and exposure to harsh chemicals.

Customised dinnerware is another option to explore, allowing you to create unique tableware concepts that align with your brand and style. Companies like Melawares offer custom tableware services, working with you to develop designs and manufacturing them at their facility.

Dinnerware for formal parties

When it comes to formal dinnerware, there are a few key things to consider. Firstly, the material of the dinnerware is important, as this will dictate how durable and versatile the set is. Formal dinnerware is typically made from bone china or porcelain, which are both elegant and durable options. Bone china, for example, is lightweight yet strong and chip-resistant, making it suitable for both everyday use and special occasions. Porcelain, on the other hand, is known for its non-porous surface and excellent durability due to high firing temperatures. Just be mindful that porcelain dinnerware with metallic accents cannot be used in the microwave.

Another consideration is the style and colour of the dinnerware. Formal dinnerware sets often feature neutral colours such as white or ivory, as these colours are timeless and versatile, allowing the food to take centre stage. That being said, you can certainly add a touch of personality with a banded or patterned design. For instance, a ribbed or fluted design can add texture to your dining experience, while still maintaining a sense of elegance.

When it comes to purchasing dinnerware, you have a few options. Formal dinnerware is often sold in place settings, which typically include five pieces: a dinner plate, a salad or dessert plate, a bread plate, a teacup, and a saucer. Some sets may also include soup bowls. If you're looking to cater to a larger group, you can opt for a dinnerware set, which usually includes multiple place settings. A 20-piece set, for instance, would provide service for four people. Alternatively, if you're only looking for a few pieces or want to mix and match, you can purchase dinnerware from open stock, which is sold individually.

• The Villeroy & Boch Manoir 18-piece dinnerware set features premium porcelain with a beautiful scalloped edge, perfect for dressing up with crystal and flatware for a special occasion.
• The Stone Lain Josephine Formal Porcelain Dinnerware set is a 16-piece set featuring a combination of blue, white, and gold pieces, adding a touch of elegance to your table.
• The Lenox Holiday 12-piece dinnerware set is perfect for holiday entertaining, providing an easy and economical way to add pieces to an existing collection.
• The Mikasa 40-piece dinnerware set in parchment is a classic and elegant option, providing service for up to four people.
• The Euro Ceramica Zanzibar Collection 16-piece dinnerware set features a vibrant Spanish floral design in blue and yellow, adding a unique touch to your formal table setting.

Frequently asked questions