How to Choose Dinner Plates

However, if you want to try something different:

• Square plates inspire a modern-chic-dining feel and are easy to handle, but could chip at the edges;

• Rectangular plates (either oval or straight-edged) are handy if you often cook dishes that involve a small side next to a main course, such as burgers and fries, but they'll be very impractical for other dishes like risottos;

• Triangular shapes aren't the most versatile but can certainly help you convey a modern and quirky feel.

What Is the Best Material for Dinner Plates?

Consider washability and durability as well as your kitchen's or dining room's décor: to make sure that your plates stand out, choose a hue that contrasts against your table or cloth, perhaps in your room's accent color.

• Ceramic is the most popular option, and mainly comes in 3 types:

  • Earthenware/stoneware: heavy, sturdy and casual, these budget-friendly sets are perfect for everyday dinnerware that still looks stylish; however, they aren't always dishwasher-safe nor oven/microwave-safe;

  • Porcelain China: usually white, this is a non-porous ceramic option that's also durable and practical, because… yep, you've guessed it: it can go in dishwashers, ovens or microwaves (except when it contains metallic accents!);

  • Bone China: despite being rather lightweight and particularly elegant, this is actually the strongest type of China and is even microwavable and dishwasher-safe! Bear in mind that 'bone' isn't just a funny name: it does come from animal bones and clay, so it's probably not the best option for vegans;

• Melamine: plastic-derived but BPA-free, melamine plates aren't microwavable but are dishwasher-safe and incredibly resistant: true lifesavers if you have kids, a clumsy partner or enjoy eating al fresco!

• Wood or bamboo: extremely resistant, the fact that they aren't microwavable nor dishwasher-safe shouldn't stop anyone who loves all things natural and sustainable!

• Purchasing your dinner plates for special occasions? Consider sophisticated options such as glass or crystal; however, keep in mind that they're particularly delicate and fragile;

• Although a bit rarer and not microwavable, you can also find metal plates such as:

  • Stainless steel: more expensive but amazingly durable, these plates most certainly won't chip, and can easily complement any industrial kitchen;

  • Enamel: this porcelain-coated metal offers more color options and designs, giving you the best of both worlds.

Don't forget that, while some materials are usually dishwasher/oven/microwave-safe, it's always better to double-check when browsing individual sets, as some might differ from the majority.

Quick Tips

• Buying a cohesive set is more practical and cost-effective than purchasing individual plates

• Most dinner plates are 10.5", but you might want to consider bigger or smaller options depending on how much room you've got in your cupboard and on your table

• Round plates are still the most practical and space-optimizing, but square, rectangular or triangular shapes can help you convey a specific restaurant-like or modern feel

• Even though some materials are usually safe to go in the dishwasher/oven/microwave, you should always double-check their specifications when choosing dinner plates from a specific set.