Tableware

How to select appropriate tableware

Tableware is the art of setting a table that corresponds to the meal about to be enjoyed. Thus, a careful selection of all the elements that make up a table includes glassware or crystal, porcelain or earthenware, cutlery or silverware, as well as all decorative objects placed on the table (flowers, candles, napkins, etc.).

When selected carefully, tableware can become a strategic element of the restaurant’s design, contributing to its brand image. Today, there are as many culinary styles on the plate as there are on the table. It is therefore possible to find tableware suited to all types of dining (commercial, hotel, on-board, and collective).

The arrangement of the tableware should not leave anything to chance. For example, it is customary for cutlery to be arranged in parallel, from the outside in, in line with the progression of the meal to maintain aesthetics around the plate and service. The wine glass is placed higher than the water glass and positioned to the left.

Our best practices

When a chef or restaurateur selects tableware for their restaurant, three criteria should guide their choices:

1. Quality: Noble and raw materials (ceramics, porcelain, raku, wood, stainless steel, etc.), artisanal and/or local manufacturing, durability (resistance to shocks and scratches).
2. Practicality: Resistance to temperatures, ergonomics, ease of stacking for storage, weight.
3. Aesthetics: In line with current trends and the restaurant’s culinary identity.

Several major trends are emerging, including artisanal ceramics and rustic plates. Many Michelin-starred chefs are working closely with ceramists to develop their own custom collections. Glassware follows a similar trend towards authenticity with the return of textured glass or hand-blown glasses that feature slight imperfections and bubbles.

Beyond table setting, it’s important how the tableware integrates into the customer’s emotional journey and key touchpoints. Indeed, one must consider the service sequences, body language, and both verbal and non-verbal communication to ensure customer delight.