The Ultimate Guide to the Best Dinnerware Sets: Dine in Style!

The Ultimate Guide to the Top 22 Dinnerware Sets of 2023 Where to Shop and Expert Tips

2023’s top 22 dinnerware sets and shopping advice

A collage of some of our picks for the best dinnerware on a gradient background.

You know what they say, gorgeous humans – the world is in a dinner party era! So, it’s time to curate a collection of the most fabulous dinnerware for your aesthetic to shine like the star you are. But fret not, my lovely fashionistas, for I have gathered the crème de la crème of dinnerware sets just for you. Get ready to be wowed!

Our Place: Where Style Meets Ethics

A beautifully messy table showing Our Place dinnerware sets and the Always Pan, all loaded with food.

If you want dinnerware that shouts “va-va-voom” on your table setting, look no further than Our Place. This fantastic brand sources high-quality materials from ethical factories and puts female entrepreneurs at the forefront. Just like their best-selling product, the Always Pan, Our Place’s dinnerware options are both simple and highly functional. Hand-painted porcelain plates, nesting bowls, and hand-blown drinking glasses create a one-of-a-kind look that will steal the show.

Oh, and did I mention that you can buy the essentials separately or get a bundle at a better value? It’s like finding a hidden treasure trove of glamour!

Food52: The Retailer with a Curated Collection

A table with stacks of colorful dinnerware

Step right into the home of unique and rare dinnerware – Food52! As a retailer, Food52 delivers a carefully curated selection of dinnerware from small studios worldwide. From North Carolina-based East Fork Pottery’s exquisite bowls to colorful French glassware and imported hand-painted Italian sets from Vietri, they have it all. It’s like stumbling upon an enchanted world of artistic wonders.

Wedgwood: Fit for Royalty, But for You Too!

A blue table set with Wedgwood plates in different colors and prints.

Ready to feel like royalty? Wedgwood is the way to go! This renowned brand, founded by English potter Josiah Wedgwood in 1759, offers bold patterns that are fit for kings and queens. They even hold a royal warrant, which means they supply the British royal family. But fear not, my lovely commoners, you don’t need a crown to enjoy your very own Wedgwood set. You too can dine like a royal with their stunning “Wedgwood Blue” and other iconic designs.

Mikasa: Where Elegance Meets Affordability

Three blue and white plates and a cup from Mikasa on a wood table with a blue runner.

Looking for dinnerware that exudes sophistication without breaking the bank? Mikasa is your answer! This American brand offers a wide range of collections, from antique white to intricate trellis designs, all at an affordable price. Whether it’s a formal dinnerware set or an everyday one, Mikasa has got you covered. And guess what? You can choose open stock plates or sets with service for one to twelve. Talk about options!

Noritake: Timeless Beauty from the East

A dark tablescape showing a beautifully set table with Noritake dinnerware set and a blue and white plate holding a piece of bread with figs.

Prepare to be captivated by the impeccable craftsmanship of Noritake. This Japanese brand has been satisfying dinnerware lovers for more than a century! Offering both formal and casual options, Noritake allows you to choose from a variety of collections. And brace yourselves for the best part – you can purchase most collections by the piece, place setting, or in a set. Plus, their Colorwave stoneware collection comes in 28 colors. It’s like painting your dining room in enchanting hues!

Gibson: Budget-Friendly and Chic

Gibson Home Melamine Dinnerware plates in mint and red sit on a table with other tableware.

Let’s face it, lovelies – budget-friendly doesn’t have to mean boring. Gibson proves just that! Partnering with brands like The Pioneer Woman, Oster, and Crockpot, Gibson offers affordable customized dinnerware options that can blow your mind. From every style to every material, they’ve got it all. But what caught my attention the most is their chip- and scratch-resistant melamine dinnerware. Perfect for those outdoor shindigs or when you have wild little ones running around. Style meets practicality, my friends!

Crate & Barrel: Classic Elegance for the Minimalist Sould

A simple table set with white dinner plates from Crate & Barrel with winter citrus.

Are you all about that minimalistic lifestyle, darlings? Look no further than Crate & Barrel’s Mercer line. It’s a minimalist’s dream come true! This timeless and simple all-white dinnerware is made from porcelain and ticks all the boxes – dishwasher-, microwave-, and even oven-safe. With its flat bottoms and low rims, the Mercer line provides an elegant yet rustic look that can grace any table setting. Mix and match it with any other dinnerware look to create a unique style that’s truly yours.

Lenox: Craftsmanship at Its Finest

A busy table filled with food and plates from Lenox on a blue tablecloth.

If you’re searching for impeccable quality and craftsmanship, Lenox will blow you away. This American company, with over 130 years of experience, offers dinnerware made from porcelain, bone china, stoneware, melamine, and even metal. And the options are endless – from open stock pieces to sets ranging from three to 28 pieces. But wait for it, my fabulous friends – Lenox even has a Replacement Promise. Yes, they’ve got your back! If you break any Lenox dinnerware or serveware, they will replace it for free! Suddenly, dance parties feel a lot safer.

Set Your Table with Confidence: Dinnerware Materials

When it comes to dinnerware, choosing the right material is key. Let’s break it down, my darlings:

Material Description
China Durable, lightweight, and often reserved for special occasions. Bone china and fine china are both elegant options, but bone china surpasses in durability. Keep an eye out for the cow bone ash content when shopping!
Porcelain A slightly heavier and sturdier option, perfect for those who want an elegant yet practical dinnerware set. Porcelain is oven-, dishwasher-, and microwave-safe, making your life in the kitchen a breeze.
Stoneware A thicker and heartier material often found in restaurants. While it requires a bit more care, stoneware is perfect for everyday use. Handle with love, and your dinnerware will serve you faithfully!
Melamine Shatterproof and kid-friendly, melamine is a fantastic option for households with little ones or outdoor entertaining. Just remember, it’s not microwave-safe. Who needs a microwave when you have style, right?

How We Chose the Crème de la Crème

A fabulous dinnerware set is a lifetime investment, my lovelies, so we made sure to choose only the best. By consulting cookbook author Courtney Whitmore and wedding caterer Bruce Roy, we gathered insights and paired them with our extensive research to present you with trusted and reliable brands. You deserve nothing but the best!

Dinnerware FAQs

How many dinnerware pieces do I need?

As fabulous individuals, we need options, right? We recommend having a dinnerware set for at least ten people, along with a selection of platters and serving pieces. Mix and match to create a cohesive and dazzling look!

What’s the best type of dinnerware to buy?

It all depends on your needs, my dears. If you’re planning special occasions, porcelain or china will add that touch of elegance. For everyday use, sturdier options like stoneware and melamine are perfect. Embrace your inner Martha Stewart!

What style of dinnerware should I buy?

Let your personal aesthetic shine through, darlings! Play with colors and patterns for everyday use, or opt for simplicity for formal table settings. Classic white with subtle details always has our hearts!

What are the best dishes for everyday use?

Durability and versatility are key, my lovelies. Look for materials that are dishwasher-, microwave-, and even oven-safe. Stoneware and melamine are top contenders for everyday chic!

What is the most chip-resistant dinnerware?

Porcelain, bone china, stoneware, and melamine are all contenders for the “chip-resistant” crown. Your fabulous dinnerware will stand the test of time!

Where can I purchase replacements for broken china?

Fear not, lovely humans! Most companies offer replacements for damaged items upon purchase. And if you’re ever in need of replacements later on, check if the brand offers a replacement program. Additionally, you can always look to Replacements, Ltd., where a world of dinnerware awaits you!

So, my fabulous fashionistas, are you ready to set the table in style? The world is your runway, and with these breathtaking dinnerware sets, every meal will become a high-fashion event. Whether you prefer timeless elegance or bold creativity, there’s a perfect set waiting just for you. Happy dining!