Tableware refers to the utensils, dishes, and other items used for setting a table, serving food, and dining. It typically includes the following, and make the ideal gift for a wedding couple in Sri Lanka, or the perfect housewarming party gifts:
● Dinnerware: Plates, bowls, and dishes used to serve and eat food.
● Example: Dinner plates, soup bowls, salad plates.
● Flatware: Utensils used for eating and serving food.
● Example: Forks, knives, spoons, serving utensils.
● Glassware: Drinking vessels made of glass.
● Example: Water glasses, wine glasses, champagne flutes.
● Serveware: Items used to serve food.
● Example: Platters, serving bowls, teapots, gravy boats.
● Cutlery: A subset of flatware that specifically includes cutting tools.
● Example: Steak knives, carving knives, butter knives.
● Napery: Table linens such as napkins, tablecloths, and placemats.
Together, these items form a coordinated set for dining. These items are also quite frequently used as employee gifts and corporate gifts in Sri Lanka, especially when celebrating special occasions.
Pros and cons of porcelain tableware
Porcelain tableware is popular for its elegance and durability, but like any material, it has advantages and disadvantages. Here is a breakdown of the pros and cons:
Pros of Porcelain Tableware:
● Elegant Appearance: Porcelain has a smooth, glossy finish that gives it a luxurious, sophisticated look, often used for formal dining settings.
● Durability: Porcelain is strong and resistant to chips and cracks due to the high-temperature firing process. Fine porcelain can be long-lasting if handled properly.
● Heat Resistance: It is typically microwave, oven, and dishwasher safe, making it versatile for both every day and special occasion use.
● Non-Porous Surface: Porcelain is non-porous, meaning it won't absorb stains or odours from food and is easy to clean and maintain.
● Versatility: Porcelain tableware can range from casual to formal designs, making it suitable for different dining environments.
● Lightweight: Despite its strength, porcelain is relatively light compared to other dinnerware materials like stoneware or earthenware.
Cons of Porcelain Tableware:
● Fragility: While durable, porcelain can still break if dropped or handled carelessly, especially thinner or finer pieces.
● Cost: Porcelain is generally more expensive than other types of tableware like stoneware or ceramic, particularly fine or bone porcelain.
● Sensitivity to Sudden Temperature Changes: Although porcelain is heat-resistant, extreme or sudden changes in temperature (like going from a freezer to a hot oven) can cause it to crack.
● Requires Careful Handling: Although dishwasher safe, porcelain often requires careful handling and may not be ideal for daily use in high-traffic households or with young children.
● Possible Wear Over Time: With regular use, the glaze on porcelain tableware can wear down, affecting its shine and appearance over time, especially on frequently used pieces like plates.
Porcelain tableware is great for those seeking a balance of beauty and durability, but it requires careful handling and can come at a higher price point.
How to choose the perfect dinnerware for your home
Choosing the perfect tableware involves balancing aesthetics, functionality, and durability to suit your lifestyle and dining needs. Here are key factors to consider:
1. Purpose and Usage
● Everyday Use: For daily meals, look for sturdy and durable materials like stoneware, porcelain, or melamine. They should be resistant to chipping and safe for microwaves and dishwashers.
● Special Occasions: Fine china, porcelain, or bone china are great options for formal settings and entertaining guests, as they offer a sophisticated look.
2. Material
● Porcelain: Elegant, durable, and non-porous; suitable for everyday and formal use. Microwave and dishwasher safe.
● Bone China: Lightweight, translucent, and strong; ideal for formal settings but can be more expensive.
● Stoneware: Thicker and more rustic; durable for daily use but can be heavier and may chip over time.
● Earthenware: Offers a handmade look; affordable but prone to chipping and staining.
● Melamine: Lightweight, shatterproof, and great for outdoor dining or families with children, though it is not microwave-safe.
3. Design and Aesthetics
● Style: Choose a design that complements your kitchen or dining room décor. Simple and neutral colours (white, beige, or grey) offer versatility, while bold patterns can make a statement.
● Shape: Round plates are classic, but square or irregular shapes add a modern touch. Choose shapes that align with your dining aesthetic.
● Set or Mix-and-Match: A coordinated set offers a cohesive look, while mixing and matching patterns can add personality and flair to your table.
4. Size
● Plate and Bowl Size: Consider the size of your kitchen storage and dishwasher. Also, ensure the sizes match the types of meals you usually serve.
● Serving Capacity: Large plates and bowls are ideal for bigger portions, while smaller plates can be used for appetizers or side dishes.
5. Durability
● Look for materials that resist chipping and scratching, especially for everyday use. Porcelain, stoneware, and tempered glass are durable options.
● Check if the tableware is oven, microwave, and dishwasher safe for added convenience.
6. Functionality
● Consider how the pieces will be used. Do you need microwave and oven-safe dishes for reheating and baking? Do you need lightweight tableware for easier handling?
● Choose stackable pieces to save on storage space.
7. Budget
● Affordable: Melamine and earthenware are budget-friendly. You can also find affordable porcelain sets.
● Mid-range: Stoneware and standard porcelain offer a balance of quality and price.
● High-end: Bone china and fine porcelain can be pricey but are worth it for elegance and durability.
8. Brand and Quality
● Research brands known for high-quality materials and craftsmanship. Reading reviews or getting recommendations can help ensure you are purchasing durable tableware.
9. Number of Pieces<
