How to Choose the Right Serveware for Your Needs

Your Guide to buying the best serveware

Overview

Serving ware is an essential element of any dining setup. Whether you're preparing a meal for a family gathering, hosting a dinner party, or just enjoying a casual meal with friends, having the right serveware is key to making the experience enjoyable. This guide will provide an overview of the different types of serveware available, as well as the factors to consider when shopping for serveware, so that you can select the pieces best suited to your needs.

Key features

  1. Material - Serveware can be made from different materials, including stainless steel, porcelain, ceramic, glass, and wood. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so consider which material will be most suitable for your needs.
  2. Shape and Size - Serving dishes come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Think about what type of food you plan to serve and what shape and size would be best suited for that food.
  3. Weight - Consider how much the serveware weighs. If you plan to move the dishes around or to another location, you'll want to go with lightweight material.
  4. Cleaning - Different materials are easier or harder to clean. Consider a dishwasher-safe material if you want easy cleanup.
  5. Durability - Make sure to look for products that are well-made and will last for a long time. Look for serveware that is chip and scratch-resistant.
  6. Design - Look for serveware that not only functions well, but also looks great. Consider the overall look of the product and be sure it fits in with your existing home decor.
  7. Price - Last but not least, consider your budget. Set a realistic budget and look for serveware that fits within it.

See the most popular serveware on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Variety & Versatility - Serveware is available in many different materials, shapes, sizes, and styles to suit any setting or serving need.
  • Durability - Serveware is often made of sturdy materials designed to withstand frequent use and daily wear and tear.
  • Decorative - Serveware can be used as a decorative piece to add elegance and visual appeal to the table.
  • Easy to Clean - Serveware is typically easy to clean and maintain.
  • Cost-Effective - Serveware is usually an affordable option for any budget.

Cons

  • Dishwasher-Safe - Not all serveware is dishwasher-safe and may require extra cleaning and drying by hand.
  • Material - Different materials, such as porcelain, stoneware, and earthenware, can all have different care requirements and levels of durability.
  • Fragility - Some serveware is quite fragile, so it is important to assess the design to determine if it can withstand frequent usage and handling.
  • Size & Capacity - Some pieces may be too small or too large for the intended purpose, and the capacity of a piece can vary depending on the amount of food being served.
  • Design - Buyers should consider the aesthetic design to ensure that it matches the intended décor.
  • Price - Depending on the materials and design, serveware can range in price from affordable to high-end.

Best alternatives

  1. Chafing dishes/warmers - Serve food at the correct temperature with these metal, heated dishes.
  2. Casserole dishes/bowls - Perfect for serving a variety of casseroles, sides, and desserts.
  3. Platters - Choose from round or rectangular platters to serve appetizers, salads, and other dishes.
  4. Punch bowls - Provide guests with a refreshing beverage in a decorative bowl.
  5. Gravy boats - Keep gravy, sauces, and other liquids hot and fresh.
  6. Sugar bowls - Add a sugar bowl to provide a sweet addition to your table.
  7. Salt and pepper shakers - Enhance the flavor of your meal with the perfect amount of seasoning.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

Common questions

  1. What types of serveware are available? Serveware typically includes items such as platters, bowls, plates, and trays in a variety of materials, such as ceramic, glass, metal, and plastic.
  2. What should I consider when buying serveware? When buying serveware, you should consider the type of material you want, the size of the pieces, the design of the pieces, and the budget you have.
  3. Are there any differences between indoor and outdoor serveware? Yes, outdoor serveware is typically made of more durable materials such as plastic and stainless steel, while indoor serveware is often made of more decorative materials such as ceramic and glass.
  4. Are there any special considerations for children’s serveware? Yes, when buying children’s serveware, you should make sure that the pieces are made of materials that are safe for children to use, such as plastic and BPA-free materials, and that the pieces are designed with easy-to-grip handles and have rounded edges.

Trivia

In the 18th century, European aristocrats used to eat their dinner off a trencher, which was a wooden plate shaped like a board. In some cases, they would also eat off of silver plates. However, when the plates were removed, servants would collect the leftover food and bring it to the poor. This was known as 'doleing' and was seen as a generous act of charity. This tradition of giving away leftover food is still practiced today, with many restaurants donating surplus food to charities. Source: https://www.historyextra.com/period/tudor/trenchers-medieval-dining-plates/

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.