Emilie Meyer
Dining plates are an essential part of any kitchen, and there are a variety of options to choose from. From sturdy materials like ceramic, melamine, and stainless steel to more elegant options like porcelain and stoneware, the choices are endless. Whether you're looking for something traditional, modern, or even nautical, there is a dining plate to match your style and decor.
When it comes to shape, round plates are the most common, but square and oval plates can add a unique touch to your table setting. As for size, small plates are great for portion control, while large plates invite guests to help themselves to generous servings.
Colour and design also play a crucial role in choosing the right dining plate. Classic white plates are always in style, but adding a pop of colour or an interesting pattern can make your table setting stand out.
Whether you're looking for everyday use or special occasion dinnerware, there is a dining plate to suit your needs. So, get creative, mix and match, and elevate your dining experience with the perfect dining plates!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Ceramic, melamine, earthenware, glass, stainless steel, porcelain, bone china, stoneware, plastic, clay, bamboo, enamel |
| Colors | White, black, grey, blue, red, beige, pink, green, yellow, brown, purple, gold, ivory, turquoise, cobalt blue, etc. |
| Shape | Round, Square, Oval |
| Features | Break-resistant, chip-resistant, dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe, oven-safe, freezer-safe, scratch-resistant |
What You'll Learn
Dinner Plate Materials
Dinner plates can be made from a variety of materials, from traditional ceramics to modern plastics. Here is a guide to some of the most common materials used for dinner plates.
Porcelain
Porcelain is a type of ceramic that has been used for dinnerware for centuries. It is made from clay that is fired at very high temperatures, resulting in a non-porous surface with excellent durability. Porcelain dinnerware is typically dishwasher-, microwave-, and oven-safe, although those with metallic accents should not be used in the microwave. Porcelain plates usually have a bright and fine finish, and can be hand-painted or decorated with stencils and tracing for a more exclusive design.
Earthenware
Earthenware is one of the oldest materials used for dinnerware, made from unrefined clay fired at low temperatures. It is a durable and casual option, giving dinnerware a substantial weight, and often features intricate designs. However, it is sensitive to temperature changes and should be avoided for high heat or the oven. While it looks heavy, earthenware is actually lightweight and delicate, and can be easily scratched. The unglazed variety is usually not dishwasher-safe, but the glazed version is.
Stoneware
Stoneware is a type of ceramic made from refined clay and some glass material, which is added for strength and durability. It has a special finishing glaze that gives it a smooth appearance and an impermeable finish, making it ideal for everyday use. Stoneware is more durable than earthenware, but it should still be kept at even temperatures and avoided for high heat or freezing. Like earthenware, it is safe for the dishwasher and microwave.
Melamine
Melamine is a type of plastic resin that is lightweight, shatterproof, and break-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor use and for children. It is also very affordable and comes in a variety of colours and designs. However, melamine plates should not be used in the microwave or oven as they can leach harmful chemicals when subjected to high temperatures. They are generally dishwasher-safe, but the water temperature should not exceed 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Glass
Glass dinner plates are durable and non-porous, and come in opaque or transparent varieties. Vitrified glass, such as the well-known brand Corelle, is virtually indestructible and safe for the dishwasher and microwave. Glass plates are ideal for child-friendly restaurants and outdoor settings.
Bone China
Bone china is a type of china made from calcified animal bones, giving it increased durability compared to other types of china. It is lightweight and elegant, and its strength makes it resistant to chipping. It is typically dishwasher- and microwave-safe, making it suitable for both everyday use and special occasions.
Other Materials
In addition to the above, dinner plates can also be made from other traditional materials such as wood, metal, or natural stone, or modern materials like tempered glass or various alloys. Disposable plates are usually made from paper pulp, plastic, or a composite of plastic-coated paper.
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Dining Plate Sizes and Shapes
Dining plates come in a variety of sizes and shapes, with the standard or average size ranging between 10 to 12 inches or 25 to 30 centimeters in diameter. The standard dinner plate has traditionally been 10.5 inches or 27 centimeters in diameter, but plates in the current market are usually larger, with sizes ranging from 11 to 12 inches or 28 to 30 centimeters.
The size of a dining plate is important as it dictates the amount of food that can be served on it. A 10-inch dinner plate, for example, can hold a protein, a grain, and a vegetable without feeling too overwhelming. A smaller plate, on the other hand, might not be sufficient to fit all the components of a meal, while a larger plate may lead to larger portions than necessary or a plate that looks empty.
In addition to size, plates also come in various shapes, with round being the most common, especially for dinner plates and saucers. Square plates are more common in Asian traditions, such as sushi plates or bento boxes, and can add a modern style to your table setting. Another option is the squircle plate, which holds more food than a round plate while occupying the same amount of space in a cupboard. Coupe plates, which have a smooth, round, steep curve up to the rim, are also available and can be considered a type of bowl rather than a plate.
When choosing the size and shape of your dining plates, it is important to consider the type of cuisine, presentation style, and portion size. For example, a large plate may not be suitable for a starter as the food will look lost on the plate, while a small plate will not be adequate for a main course unless you are restricting portion sizes. It is also essential to ensure that your plates fit in your microwave or oven, if you plan to use them for heating or reheating food.
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Food Plate Colours and Designs
The colour of a dining plate is about more than just aesthetics. It can affect diners' perceptions of portion size, quality, and taste, as well as the overall dining experience.
White plates are a classic choice for restaurants and hotels, as they allow the food to take centre stage. White plates also create a perception of larger portions when set against a contrasting colour, and they make the colours of the food seem more vibrant. White is a versatile choice, working with any colour scheme and presentation style.
Black plates are another popular choice, as they give the impression of generous portions and can make a striking impression when the food is served. However, black plates might not complement all foods and could overpower some dishes.
Earthy tones, such as sage greens and darker browns, can promote the nutritional credentials of a meal and give an environmentally conscious feel. Pastel colours like baby pink, sky blue, and mint green can give a cute and retro feel to a table setting, making it ideal for coffee shops and cafes.
Bright and colourful plates can be used to make a statement and complete the theme of a restaurant. They can also be used to determine allergies during plating, and certain colours are known to encourage people with health conditions to eat more. For example, yellow plates can encourage people with Alzheimer's to eat larger portions.
Patterned plates can add ornamentation and complement certain cuisines or styles. For instance, blue has seaside connotations, and vibrant patterns can suit the flavours of South American cuisine.
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Casual vs Formal Dinner Plates
Dinner plates come in a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, bone china, stoneware, melamine, and glass. Each type of dinnerware has its own benefits. For example, bone china is lightweight and elegant, while melamine is shatterproof and break-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor dining.
When it comes to casual versus formal dinner plates, the main differences lie in the material, design, and purpose.
Casual Dinner Plates
Casual dinner plates are typically made from more durable and economical materials such as earthenware, stoneware, or melamine. They often feature simpler designs and are meant for everyday use. Casual dinner plates usually come in sets that include multiple place settings, making them ideal for families or those who entertain frequently. These sets typically include a dinner plate, salad or dessert plate, bowl, and mug for each person.
Formal Dinner Plates
Formal dinner plates, on the other hand, are usually made from more elegant and delicate materials such as porcelain, bone china, or fine china. They often feature more intricate designs and may have gold or silver rims. Formal dinner plates are typically sold individually or in smaller sets and are meant for special occasions or formal events. These plates are often larger and may have charger plates underneath to add a touch of elegance.
Care and Maintenance
It is important to note that different materials require different care. For example, earthenware should be avoided from sudden temperature changes, high heat, or the oven to maintain its best appearance. Stoneware should also be kept at even temperatures and avoided from high heat or freezing. Porcelain and bone china are generally dishwasher, microwave, and oven-safe, making them suitable for everyday use.
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Dinnerware Sets
Types of Dinnerware Sets
Materials and Durability
When choosing a dinnerware set, consider the material. Porcelain dinnerware sets offer a classic and contemporary look, while stoneware provides a rustic and naturalistic feel. For outdoor dining, opt for melamine dinnerware, which is durable and shatter-resistant. Additionally, look for sets that are chip-resistant, scratch-resistant, and dishwasher-safe for added convenience and longevity.
Design and Colour Options
The design and colour of your dinnerware set can enhance the overall dining experience. Neutral colours like white, grey, and beige provide a clean and elegant look, complementing various table settings. For a modern aesthetic, consider square dish sets or sets with colourful rims. If you gravitate towards bold designs, explore options with reactive glazes, which offer unique swirls and patterns in earthy tones.
Popular Options
- Corelle Vitrelle 18-Piece Dinnerware Set: This set is made of triple-layer glass, chip-resistant, and lightweight, perfect for everyday use.
- Gibson Home Zen Buffet Porcelain Dinnerware Set: A 16-piece, chip-and-scratch-resistant set in square shapes with a white colour palette.
- Amazon Basics 18-Piece Kitchen Dinnerware Set: A simple and elegant white set, perfect for those starting or expanding their dinnerware collection.
- Stone Lain Coupe Dinnerware Set: This 16-piece set in black matte adds a modern and sleek touch to your table.
- Gibson Home Oslo 16-Piece Porcelain Dinnerware Set: Featuring a white and black rim design, this set offers a timeless and versatile option.
- Elama Fine Round Gloss Dinnerware Dish Set: A 16-piece set in black and white marble for a stylish and elegant dining experience.
These are just a few examples, but there are numerous options available to suit different tastes and preferences.
Additional Considerations
When purchasing a dinnerware set, consider the occasion and your personal style. For special occasions, you might opt for luxury dinnerware sets with intricate designs or gold rims. Additionally, think about the number of place settings you require and whether you need additional pieces like serveware or tea sets.
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Frequently asked questions
Dining plates can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, melamine, earthenware, glass, stainless steel, stoneware, porcelain, and bone china.
Dining plates come in a variety of sizes, with some being small for portion control and others being large to encourage generous helpings. The standard size for a dinner plate is typically between 10 and 12 inches in diameter.
There are many types of dining plates available, including round, oval, and square plates. Round plates are the most common, while oval and square plates offer a more unique and modern look. Coupe plates have a slightly convex shape, while rimmed plates have a raised edge to hold sauces and gravies.
When choosing dining plates, consider the material, shape, size, and color that best suits your needs and aesthetic preferences. Also, think about the occasion, as some plates may be more suitable for everyday use while others are better for formal events.
To care for your dining plates, it is recommended to handle them with care and avoid sliding them out of a stack. They should be washed gently with mild detergents and soft sponges. Most dining plates are dishwasher and microwave safe, but it is essential to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific care guidelines.
