1. Understanding the Basics

Ceramic tableware comes in a variety of sizes and shapes, each designed for specific types of food. The primary pieces include plates, bowls, and platters, with each category offering multiple size options.

Plates

• Dinner Plates (10-12 inches): Ideal for main courses, providing ample space for proteins, vegetables, and sides.

• Salad Plates (7-9 inches): Suitable for salads, appetizers, and desserts.

• Bread and Butter Plates (5-7 inches): Perfect for serving bread, small snacks, or appetizers.

Bowls

• Soup Bowls (6-8 inches): Designed for soups and stews, with a capacity of around 16-20 ounces.

• Cereal Bowls (5-7 inches): Great for cereals, pasta, or smaller portions of soups, usually holding 12-16 ounces.

• Serving Bowls (8-12 inches): Used for larger portions of side dishes, salads, or family-style servings.

Platters

• Small Platters (12-14 inches): Ideal for serving appetizers, small entrees, or desserts.

• Large Platters (16-20 inches): Perfect for main dishes like roasts, poultry, or large servings of pasta.

2. Choosing the Right Size for Different Dishes

Main Courses

• Steak or Grilled Meats: Use a dinner plate (10-12 inches) to accommodate the meat along with side dishes.

• Pasta Dishes: A wide, shallow bowl (10-12 inches) or a large dinner plate works well for holding generous portions without spills.

• Roast Chicken or Turkey: A large platter (16-20 inches) is suitable for serving whole poultry, allowing space for garnishes.

Appetizers and Sides

• Salads: Salad plates (7-9 inches) or medium bowls (6-8 inches) are perfect for individual portions. For family-style, use a large serving bowl (8-12 inches).

• Vegetable Sides: Smaller serving bowls (6-8 inches) or small platters (12-14 inches) are ideal for holding side vegetables or starches like mashed potatoes.

Breakfast and Light Meals

• Cereal and Oatmeal: Cereal bowls (5-7 inches) are the go-to option for breakfast cereals, oatmeal, or yogurt.

• Bread and Pastries: Bread and butter plates (5-7 inches) provide just enough space for a morning pastry or a couple of slices of bread.

Desserts

• Cakes and Pies: Dessert plates (7-9 inches) are perfect for serving slices of cake or pie.

• Ice Cream or Pudding: Smaller bowls (4-6 inches) are ideal for serving desserts like ice cream, pudding, or fruit salad.

3. Tips for Selecting Ceramic Tableware

Aesthetic and Theme

• Match the Occasion: Choose tableware that complements the event’s theme, whether it's a formal dinner or a casual family meal.

• Color Coordination: Select colors that enhance the presentation of your food. White is classic and versatile, while vibrant colors can add a pop of excitement.

Practicality and Storage

• Stackability: Ensure that the plates and bowls you choose are easy to stack and store.

• Durability: Consider the durability of the ceramic, especially if it will be used frequently or for large gatherings.

Completeness

• Set Completeness: Having a complete set of varying sizes ensures you’re prepared for any type of dish.

• Specialty Pieces: Invest in a few specialty pieces like soup tureens or large serving platters for specific occasions.