Plates, bowls and dinnerware sets for everyday and entertaining
Dinnerware is something you use several times a day, so it should be practical as well as nice to look at. The right set makes everyday meals feel a little more special and holds up to years of washing.
This category includes dinnerware sets, dinner and side plates, bowls, serving platters and dishes, in ceramic, porcelain, stoneware and other materials.
Each material has its strengths. Porcelain is thin, light, elegant and surprisingly strong. Stoneware is heavier and more rustic, with a cozy handmade feel. Melamine is lightweight and nearly unbreakable, which is great for kids and outdoor dining, but it isn't microwave-safe.
Check whether pieces are microwave, oven and dishwasher-safe before buying, and look at the plate diameter, since some modern dinner plates are 11 inches or more and won't fit in smaller cupboards or dishwashers.
A neutral set in white, cream or soft gray is easy to match with anything and lets the food stand out. You can add personality through serving pieces, napkins and table linens. Buy a few extra pieces to replace breakages over time.
