Creative Dishware Trends Transform the Dining Experience

The way a dish looks has become increasingly important to the dining experience, with chefs and restaurants focusing on visually appealing plates that can be shared on social media. There is a move away from traditional white ceramic plates towards more creative shapes, colors, and textures, such as handmade stoneware with irregular shapes inspired by nature.

Stoneware is enjoying a renaissance as it is natural, recyclable, and long-lasting, implying down-to-earthiness and craftsmanship. This trend reflects a more relaxed plating style, even in fine-dining restaurants. Brands like Food52, Soho Home, and Crate & Barrel are embracing 'imperfect' dining sets in neutral, earthy tones. Scallop trim has also found its way from decor to plates, especially for smaller appetizer and dessert dishes.

Ceramicists like Jono Pandolfi and local artisans like Helen Levi and FeFo Studio are creating colorfully glazed ceramic slabs and plate bowls for restaurants and home cooks. Chefs are using beautifully patterned plates to help tell their stories, with some plates featuring playful patterns, nature-inspired designs, or modern art. The color of the plate is also found to affect a diner's perception of the plated food.

Why this matters: The design of tableware has become an important aspect of the overall dining experience, as chefs and home cooks aim to create a vibrant and visually appealing presentation for their meals. This shift reflects a movement towards a more relaxed, homemade, and celebratory dining experience, which is also driven by the rise of sharing images of dishes online.

The classic white ceramic plate has given way to a variety of innovative shapes, colors, and materials in creative dishware trends. "The way a meal looks has become increasingly important, especially with the rise of sharing images of dishes online," notes an expert. As tableware designs continue to evolve, they are transforming the dining experience both in restaurants and at home, creating a more relaxed and visually engaging presentation.

Key Takeaways

• Plating has become more visually appealing, with chefs using creative dishware.
• Stoneware is enjoying a renaissance due to its natural, recyclable, and long-lasting qualities.
• Brands are embracing 'imperfect' dining sets in neutral, earthy tones.
• Ceramicists are creating colorfully glazed ceramic slabs and plate bowls for restaurants and home.
• The design of tableware has become an important aspect of the overall dining experience.