The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Perfect Dinnerware Set: Focusing On Flat Bowls

Dinnerware sets are essential for every home, and flat bowls are a unique and versatile piece to add to your collection. Whether you're serving a hot, steaming bowl of pasta or a refreshing açaí bowl, flat bowls can add a touch of style and practicality to your dining experience. With a variety of materials, colours, and designs to choose from, you can create a table setting that is both elegant and unique.

Flat bowls, also known as bowl plates or deep plates, offer the perfect stage for your culinary creations. They provide an amphitheatre-like setting, cradling sauces and ingredients and making it easier to plate and transport your dishes to the table. Imagine serving seared venison with braised carrots and risotto, surrounded by a dark moat of mushroom demi-glace – a flat bowl would be the perfect choice for such a dish.

When it comes to materials, you can choose from stoneware, ceramic, wood, porcelain, or even tempered glass. Each material offers its own unique benefits and aesthetic appeal. Stoneware, for example, is known for its durability, while porcelain has an elegant and refined look.

Flat bowls come in a range of sizes, so you can find the perfect one for your needs. Whether you're serving a hearty stew or a light salad, there's a flat bowl that will cradle your dish perfectly. And if you're looking to create a cohesive table setting, many flat bowls come as part of a matching dinnerware set, including plates and other serving dishes.

So, why settle for ordinary bowls when you can elevate your dining experience with flat bowls? They are a unique and functional addition to any dinnerware collection, and with so many options available, you can find the perfect set to express your style and impress your guests.

Stoneware, ceramic, porcelain, and glass dinnerware sets are available

Stoneware Dinnerware Sets

Stoneware is a popular choice for dinnerware due to its durability, affordability, and versatility. It is safe to use in the dishwasher, microwave, oven, and freezer, making it suitable for everyday use. Stoneware has a rustic aesthetic and a coarse grain that gives it a unique, unrefined look. It is available in various colours, including white, grey, red, and turquoise, and can feature eye-catching patterns. Some popular brands that offer stoneware dinnerware include Gibson, Stone Lain, and Latitude Run.

Ceramic Dinnerware Sets

Ceramic dinnerware encompasses a wide range of materials, including stoneware, porcelain, and earthenware. It is safe to use in the dishwasher and microwave and is often hand-painted, giving it a unique and elegant look. Ceramic dinnerware sets are available in various styles, from timeless and elegant to organic and asymmetric designs. Some popular brands offering ceramic dinnerware include East Fork, Hawkins New York, and KooK.

Porcelain Dinnerware Sets

Porcelain is known for its durability, smooth texture, and elegant appearance. It is made from fine-particle clay and fired at a high temperature, resulting in a hard and robust material. Porcelain dinnerware is often white or translucent and can feature ornate designs. It is safe to use in the dishwasher, microwave, and oven, unless specified otherwise by the manufacturer. Some popular brands offering porcelain dinnerware include Euro Ceramica, Gibson, and Elama.

Glass Dinnerware Sets

Glass dinnerware, such as the Corelle Vitrelle collection, offers a sleek and transparent look that is both playful and elegant. It is durable, chip-resistant, and safe to use in the dishwasher and microwave. Glass dinnerware can be found in various colours, including clear, pink, and ginger root, adding a unique touch to any table setting. Fortessa Tableware Solutions offers a stylish and durable glass dinnerware set.

When choosing between stoneware, ceramic, porcelain, and glass dinnerware sets, consider factors such as durability, maintenance, aesthetic appeal, and intended use. Each material has unique qualities and features that make it suitable for different occasions, from casual everyday meals to formal dinner parties.

Sets include dinner plates, side plates, pasta bowls, and cereal bowls

Dinnerware sets that include dinner plates, side plates, pasta bowls, and cereal bowls are a great way to add style and functionality to your dining table. Here are some options to choose from:

IKEA Options:

IKEA offers a range of dinnerware sets that include plates and bowls. The FÄRGKLAR 18-piece dinnerware set is a great option, allowing you to mix and match different colours. It includes plates in two sizes (10" and 9"), deep plates/bowls (9"), and bowls (6.5").

Another option is the GLADELIG series, which features sandy-glazed bowls and plates for a crafted, timeless look. You can purchase these individually or as part of the GODMIDDAG 18-piece dinnerware set.

The NÄTBARB dinnerware series offers a unique, countryside-chic look with its water ripple-inspired pattern. Made of durable glass with a glossy, opaque surface, these plates and bowls are sure to impress your guests.

Wayfair Options:

Wayfair offers several dinnerware sets that include dinner plates, side plates or salad plates, and cereal or soup bowls. Some sets also include pasta bowls. Here are some options:

• Wayfair Basics Burkeville Stoneware Dinnerware Set: This 16-piece set includes four 10.5" dinner plates, four 7.75" salad plates, four 6" cereal bowls, and four 8.75" pasta bowls. It is made of durable stoneware with a sleek solid hue and a glossy finish.
• Gibson Soho Lounge Matte 18-Piece Dinnerware Set: This set includes six 10.25" dinner plates, six dessert plates, and six bowls. It features a soft matte glaze finish and a sleek square shape, adding modern appeal to your table.
• Latitude Run 12-Piece Dinnerware Set: This set includes four 10.25" dinner plates, four 8" salad plates, and four 6" cereal bowls. It is crafted from high-quality stoneware with a bright finish and is both microwave and dishwasher safe.
• Dakota Fields Whittier Stoneware Dinnerware Set: This set includes six dinner plates, side plates, pasta bowls, and cereal bowls, for a total of 24 pieces. It features colourful spirals and spots, adding a unique and whimsical touch to your table.

Amazon Options:

Amazon also offers a variety of dinnerware sets that include plates and bowls. Here are some options that specifically mention pasta bowls:

• Gibson Home Oslo 16-Piece Dinnerware Set: This set includes four dinner plates, salad plates, dinner bowls, and cereal bowls. It is made of AB-grade porcelain, combining modern elegance and practicality.
• Gibson Elite Althea Reactive Dinnerware Set: This 16-piece set services four and is available in a beautiful teal colour.
• Stone Lain Coupe Dinnerware Set: This 20-piece set services four and features a unique black matte finish.

In addition to these options, you can also find dinnerware sets at retailers like Target and Temple & Webster. These sets offer a range of styles, colours, and materials to suit your preferences and dining needs.

Some sets are microwave and dishwasher safe

When shopping for dinnerware, it's important to keep in mind factors such as the number of settings, the types of dishes included, dish shape, dish size, and care instructions. If you're looking for a dinnerware set that includes flat bowls and is microwave and dishwasher safe, there are several options available.

For a simple yet elegant set, consider the Gibson Soho Lounge Matte 18-Piece Dinnerware Set. This set includes six dinner plates, six dessert plates, and six bowls, and is made of durable stoneware that is both microwave and dishwasher safe. The soft matte glaze finish brings a modern appeal to your table, and the square shape provides a unique look and additional surface area for your meals.

If you're looking for something more colourful and playful, the Gibson Home Oslo 16-piece dinnerware set might be a better option. This set includes dinner plates, salad plates, dinner bowls, and cereal bowls in a beautiful combination of classic pearl porcelain and contemporary black lip design. It is also microwave and dishwasher safe, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

Another great option is the Lenox Blue Bay 12-Piece Dinnerware Set, which features a unique organic, wavy shape and elegant gold rims. This set has been tested for durability, withstanding 14 cycles in the dishwasher without any signs of wear on the gold rims. It is also microwave-safe, making it a convenient choice for everyday use.

For those who prefer a more minimalist aesthetic, the Fable Base Dinnerware Set offers a modern yet earthy look. This set is made of stoneware, a dense and durable type of ceramic. It has been tested to be scratch-resistant and microwave-safe, making it a great choice for those who want both style and functionality.

Finally, for a budget-friendly option, consider the Gibson Home Zen Buffet 30-Piece Dinnerware Set. This large and versatile set includes mugs, dinner plates, dessert plates, standard bowls, and salad bowls, all of which are microwave and dishwasher safe. In testing, this set resisted scratches and stains and stood up to multiple washes in the dishwasher, making it a great value for the price.

Dinnerware sets range from 12 to 24 pieces

Dinnerware sets typically range from 12 to 24 pieces and usually include dinner plates, side plates, bowls, and mugs. These sets are ideal for those looking to buy tableware for everyday meals or special occasions.

For instance, the MALACASA dinnerware set from Amazon is a 48-piece set that serves 12 people and includes dinner plates, dessert plates, soup plates, and bowls. This set is crafted from porcelain china, giving it a subtle glossy finish. It is also safe to put in the dishwasher and microwave, making it perfect for everyday use.

If you're looking for something smaller, the Gibson Soho Lounge Matte 18-Piece Dinnerware Set from Wayfair is a great option. This set includes six dinner plates, six dessert plates, and six bowls, and is made of durable stoneware that is dishwasher and microwave-safe.

For something more unique, the Vancasso Nymph dinnerware set from Wayfair features an eye-catching glazing technology that displays different hues from different angles and under various lighting. This set includes six large round 10.5” dinner plates, six round 8.5” salad plates, six round 32oz pasta bowls, and six round 26oz cereal bowls, and is crafted from high-quality stoneware.

Whether you're looking for a simple or elegant set, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs and style.

Dinnerware sets are available in a variety of colours and designs

Dinnerware sets are available in a wide range of colours, patterns, and materials, allowing you to express your personal style and complement your home decor. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you choose the perfect dinnerware set:

Materials

Dinnerware is typically made from bone china, porcelain, earthenware, stoneware, or melamine, each offering unique benefits:

• Bone china is lightweight, elegant, and durable, resisting chips and cracks. It is safe for the dishwasher and microwave, making it ideal for everyday use and special occasions.
• Porcelain has a non-porous surface and excellent durability due to high firing temperatures. It is usually dishwasher-, microwave-, and oven-safe, but avoid the microwave if there are metallic accents.
• Earthenware offers durability, value, and a casual appeal. To maintain its best condition, avoid sudden temperature changes and high heat from the oven or microwave.
• Stoneware has a smooth glaze, making it family-friendly and ideal for everyday use. While more durable than earthenware, avoid extreme temperatures and hand wash hand-painted pieces.
• Melamine is shatterproof and break-resistant, perfect for outdoor dining and entertaining. It is dishwasher-safe but not suitable for the oven or microwave.

Styles and Colours

Dinnerware sets can be formal or casual and come in solid colours, bands, patterns, or hand-painted designs. Here are some tips for choosing a style:

• For formal dinnerware, opt for classic and timeless designs in neutral colours like white or ivory. Rim details can add a touch of colour and personality.
• Casual dinnerware is all about expressing your personality through colours and patterns. Be adventurous and choose designs that appeal to you.
• For longevity, select classic styles over trendy options. Solid or banded white pieces are versatile and timeless, complementing colourful accent pieces.
• White dinnerware is versatile and can be dressed up or down with accessories like placemats, chargers, and linens.

Sets or Open Stock

You can purchase dinnerware as a set, place setting, or open stock:

• Formal dinnerware is often sold as a place setting, including a dinner plate, salad/dessert plate, bread plate, teacup, and saucer. Some sets may include soup bowls.
• Dinnerware sets typically include multiple place settings, usually offering service for four people with dinner plates, salad plates, teacups, and saucers.
• Open stock dinnerware allows you to purchase individual pieces, perfect for mixing and matching or completing a collection.

Care and Maintenance

Consider your storage space and choose dinnerware that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:

• Look for dishwasher-safe and break-resistant dinnerware, especially if you have children or plan to use it outdoors.
• Microwave-safe dinnerware is convenient for reheating leftovers.
• Hand wash delicate pieces with hand-painted designs to prevent damage.
• Remove hard water spots by soaking dinnerware in white vinegar and towel-drying.
• Remove coffee stains and fork marks by rubbing a paste of baking soda and water on the affected areas.
• Stack everyday dishes and bowls, but store fine china or chip-prone pieces separately with padding to prevent scratches.

Frequently asked questions