Tiffany Haney
Modern restaurant plates are a stylish and fashionable option for any dining space. They come in a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, bone china, glass, metal, stoneware, and wood. These plates are designed to be durable and elegant, with a range of shapes, patterns, and colours available. For example, the Steelite International Distinction range offers plates with a flawless white body, smooth flowing curves, and delicate embossments, while their Performance range includes plates inspired by natural landscapes with subtle curved embossments. Porcelain plates are ideal for upscale occasions, while melamine plates are a sensible alternative for high-volume, casual restaurants as they are durable and affordable.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Ceramic, porcelain, bone china, melamine, stoneware, glass, metal, plastic, woven wood |
| Shape | Round, square, rectangular, oval |
| Colour | White, black, grey, blue, gold, silver, multicolour |
| Pattern | Solid, striped, matte, glazed, embossed, hand-painted |
| Dishwasher safe | Yes, no |
| Oven safe | Yes, no |
| Microwave safe | Yes, no |
What You'll Learn
Plate shapes, patterns, and colours
When it comes to modern restaurant plates, there are a variety of shapes, patterns, and colours to choose from. Here are some things to consider when selecting the perfect plates for your dining space:
Plate Shapes
The shape of a plate can vary from classic round or square designs to more unique and contemporary options. For instance, Steelite International's Distinction range offers sleek and elegant plates with smooth flowing curves and delicate embossments. Their Performance range includes collections with simple yet striking shapes, such as Sheer, Metro, Neo, and Contour, allowing chefs to create individual tabletop presentations.
Plate Patterns
Plate patterns can add interest and texture to your table setting. For example, Steelite International's Distinction range features plates with delicate embossments, while their Performance range includes plates with subtle curved embossments inspired by the natural landscape. Other options include woven wood servingware, which adds a natural and traditional element to your table, or modern geometric glass plates for a refined statement.
Plate Colours
Plate colours can be chosen to match your restaurant's theme, create a specific ambiance, or simply to showcase the food. White plates are a classic choice, providing a flawless canvas for any dish. Black plates exude sophistication and elegance, while colourful plates can add a bold and eclectic touch to your table setting.
When selecting plates, it's also important to consider factors such as durability, suitability for the type of restaurant, and dishwashing capabilities. For instance, melamine plates are a sensible alternative to porcelain and china as they are durable and won't break or chip easily. On the other hand, porcelain plates offer a classic and elegant option, ideal for upscale occasions and catered events.
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Plate materials
Modern restaurant plates are available in a variety of materials, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Here is an overview of some popular plate materials used in restaurants today:
Ceramic
Ceramic plates are a popular choice for restaurants due to their durability, scratch resistance, and modern aesthetic. They come in a range of colours and designs, including matte finishes and lipped edges, adding a contemporary touch to any table setting. Ceramic plates are also oven, microwave, and dishwasher safe, making them a practical option for both restaurants and home use.
Porcelain
Porcelain dinnerware is a classic choice for restaurants, offering durability and elegance. It is ideal for upscale dining establishments, catered events, and wedding receptions. Porcelain plates come in various styles, shapes, and colours, including square plates and those with a sleek, white body. This material is also microwave, oven, and dishwasher safe.
Bone China
Bone china dinnerware is a unique and durable option, as it contains at least 25% bone ash. This material is suitable for restaurants seeking a distinctive look for their table settings. Bone china plates are available in a range of styles, including coupe and square shapes.
Melamine
Melamine is a sensible alternative to porcelain and china for high-volume, casual restaurants. It is a stylish and durable material that won't break or chip easily. Melamine dinnerware is available in a range of designs, including plates with lipped edges and various colour options, such as matte black.
Stoneware
Stoneware is a versatile material that creates a classic yet modern look, perfect for both casual and upscale dining establishments. It is available in a range of colours and designs, including matte finishes and coupe shapes. Stoneware is also microwave, oven, and dishwasher safe.
Metal
Metal dinnerware offers both visual appeal and durability, making it a smart choice for any food service business. Metal plates can be found in a variety of styles, including woven designs and simple, sleek shapes.
Glass
Glass dinnerware makes a refined statement in hotels, bistros, and restaurants. It offers modern geometric designs and eco-friendly options, such as recycled green glass. Glass plates are available in a range of styles, including coupe and square shapes.
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Plate functionality
Modern restaurant plates are not only stylish and fashionable but also functional. Functionality is a key consideration when selecting dinnerware for a restaurant. Here are some essential aspects of plate functionality:
Durability
The chosen dinnerware should be durable and long-lasting, especially in busy catering environments where plates are used repeatedly. Materials such as porcelain, melamine, and stoneware are known for their durability. Steelite International's Distinction and Performance ranges are crafted from high-performance alumina vitrified clay, offering long-lasting durability.
Safety
It is essential to select plates that are safe for use in dishwashers, microwaves, and ovens. Most modern plates are designed to withstand various handling and cleaning methods. For instance, melamine plates are a sensible alternative to porcelain and china as they do not break or chip easily.
Suitability for the Occasion
The type of restaurant and dining style should be considered when choosing dinnerware. Plastic or melamine plates are suitable for fast-food restaurants, while porcelain or bone china might be more appropriate for upscale dining. Stoneware is a versatile option, suitable for both casual and upscale restaurants.
Presentation
The design of the plates can significantly impact food presentation. Carefully selected restaurant plates provide chefs with a canvas to create innovative and unique presentations. Distinctive shapes, patterns, colours, and sizes can enhance the dining experience and make it more memorable. For instance, Steelite's Freestyle range offers ample plating space and exceptional heat retention, inspiring creativity in food presentation.
Customisation
Customisable plates with restaurant logos or unique designs can elevate the dining experience and reinforce the restaurant's brand. Many suppliers offer wholesale custom plates with various colours, glazes, and materials to choose from.
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Plate styles
Modern restaurant plates are stylish and fashionable, and they come in a wide range of colours, sizes, and materials. The type of plate you choose for your restaurant will depend on the type of food you are serving, the ambiance of your restaurant, and your budget.
China
China dinnerware is elegant and can come in dozens of styles, colours, and shapes. It is a good option for upscale restaurants.
Porcelain
Porcelain plates are durable and classic. They are ideal for catered events, wedding receptions, and other upscale occasions.
Melamine
Melamine is a sensible alternative to porcelain and china as it will not break or chip. It is a good option for high-volume, casual restaurants.
Stoneware
Stoneware is a good option for any casual or upscale restaurant as it creates a classic yet modern look.
Plastic
Plastic dinnerware is an economical and efficient way to serve meals at high-volume eateries, outdoor events, and banquets.
Metal
Metal dinnerware is both visually appealing and durable, making it a smart choice for any food service business.
Wooden
Woven wood servingware is the perfect accompaniment to any all-natural setting, outdoor eatery, or cafe.
Glass
Glass dinnerware, from modern geometric plates to recycled green glass display trays, makes a refined statement at hotels, bistros, and other restaurants.
Bone China
Bone china dinnerware is made with at least 25% bone ash, which gives this material a unique appearance and added durability.
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Plate presentation
Choosing the Right Plates
The first step to achieving an impressive plate presentation is selecting the appropriate dinnerware. The market offers a wide range of modern restaurant plates in various materials, colours, shapes, and styles. Here are some options:
- China Dinnerware: Elevates the elegance of your restaurant. China dinnerware comes in various styles, colours, and shapes, allowing you to create a sophisticated tablescape.
- Porcelain Dinnerware: Porcelain plates offer durability and a classic look, making them ideal for upscale events and catering.
- Melamine Dinnerware: A sensible alternative to porcelain and china, melamine dinnerware is stylish and won't break or chip. It's perfect for high-volume, casual restaurants.
- Stoneware Dinnerware: Stoneware creates a classic yet modern look, suitable for both casual and upscale dining.
- Glass Dinnerware: Glass dinnerware, including modern geometric plates and recycled green glass trays, adds a touch of refinement to your tables.
- Bone China Dinnerware: Made with at least 25% bone ash, bone china has a unique appearance and added durability.
- Metal Dinnerware: Metal dinnerware is visually appealing and durable, making it a smart choice for any food service business.
- Wooden Dinnerware: Woven wood servingware is perfect for natural settings, outdoor eateries, and cafes, adding a rustic charm to your tables.
Presentation Techniques
Once you've chosen the right dinnerware, it's time to focus on the food presentation itself. Here are some ideas to make your dishes look as appealing as possible:
- Colour and Contrast: Play with colours and create contrast on the plate. For example, you can pair black matte stoneware with accents in glass, gold, or dusty pink.
- Monochromatic Aesthetic: Create a sleek look by using black dinner plates, white salad plates, and marble serving trays.
- Eclectic Mix: Introduce bold colours or decorative china to your tablescape for an eclectic and vibrant feel.
- Small Plates and Hors d'oeuvres: For a cocktail hour or drinks and appetisers setting, opt for small plates and hors d'oeuvres. Line a table runner with wood or metal platters for cheese, fruit, and hot appetisers.
- Signature Cocktails: Offer a signature cocktail in a stylish decanter or beverage dispenser, creating a unique drinking experience.
- Table Setting: Don't forget the importance of the overall table setting. Use placemats, napkins, and candle holders to complement your dinnerware and create a cohesive look.
Plate Composition
When composing the plate, consider the following elements:
- Balance: Arrange the food elements on the plate to create a balanced composition. Ensure that the visual weight of the components is evenly distributed.
- Colour and Texture: Play with colours and textures to create interest and variety on the plate. For example, combine glossy sauces with matte finishes or crisp, fried elements with soft, pureed ingredients.
- Height and Dimension: Add height to the plate by stacking ingredients or using garnishes with height, such as fresh herbs or crispy toppings. This creates a sense of dimension and makes the dish more visually appealing.
- Negative Space: Don't overcrowd the plate. Leave some negative space to allow each element to stand out and showcase its unique characteristics.
- Sauces and Drizzles: Use sauces and drizzles to add flavour and visual appeal. Consider the placement and design of the sauce to enhance the overall presentation.
By combining the right dinnerware with thoughtful food presentation techniques and compositional elements, you can create stunning plate presentations that will impress your guests and elevate their dining experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Modern restaurant plates can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, bone china, glass, metal, stoneware, wood, and plastic.
When choosing restaurant plates, consider the volume of customers, the affordability of the product, and the type of restaurant. For example, plastic or melamine dinnerware is suitable for high-volume restaurants, schools, or hospitals due to its affordability and durability. For a more upscale environment, porcelain or bone china dishes may be preferred.
The durability of modern restaurant plates depends on the material and quality. Some materials, like melamine, are known for their durability and resistance to breaking or chipping. Other materials, like porcelain or bone china, can be more delicate but are still suitable for everyday use.
Modern restaurant plates come in various styles, including rustic, matte, monochrome, geometric, and multicolour designs. Rustic-style plates are the most common and classic type of restaurant plate, combining elegance and sophistication.
Modern restaurant plates can be purchased from various retailers, including Amazon, Steelite International, WebstaurantStore, and CB2. These retailers offer a wide range of options in different materials, styles, and price points.
