Setting the Table: The Best Dinnerware for Every Style, Budget, and Taste
No More ‘I’ll Just Use My Favorite Plate’
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Let's face it—dinnerware is more than just something to put your food on. It's the backdrop to your meal, the finishing touch that turns a simple dinner into a little celebration. Whether you're hosting a fancy dinner party, or just having a casual meal with friends, the right dinnerware can set the perfect tone. But we know that not everyone has the same dining style (or budget). So, we've rounded up the best dinnerware sets for every personality and price point. From the high-end showstoppers to the humble yet practical picks, we're here to help you elevate your dining experience, without putting you in debt. Ready to set the table? Let’s dig in.
1.
Musubi Mono Graceful Garden Dinnerware Set
Experience the serene, nostalgic feeling of a summer garden.
We tested the Musubi Mono Graceful Garden Dinnerware Set and were immediately taken by its serene, nostalgic charm. The side plate featuring the Shogoin radish, crafted by Tosen Kiln, beautifully blends cobalt blue and white, offering a timeless, traditional touch. The main plate, adorned with raspberry branches from Kakusho Kiln, adds a refreshing pop of elegance with its delicate blue and white design.
The standout pieces for us were the Mino ware rice bowl in stunning turquoise, and the light blue kobachi bowl with its modern kannyu pattern. The dark brown Yamanaka lacquerware miso soup bowl and natural wood lacquerware tray completed the set, creating a beautifully balanced table setting that combines traditional craftsmanship with a sense of effortless modernity.
2.
Iittala Teema Starter Set White 8 Set
Indulge in the essence of Scandinavian design thinking.
We tested the Iittala Teema Starter Set and were immediately impressed by its minimalist elegance. Designed by the legendary Kaj Franck, this set embodies the essence of Nordic simplicity with its iconic use of three basic forms—circle, square, and rectangle. The pure white finish highlights the refined design, making it the perfect blank canvas for any table setting, whether casual or formal.
The set includes two dinner plates, two side plates, two deep dish plates, and two side bowls—ideal for creating a functional, yet stylish table arrangement. What we loved most is its versatility: safe for use in the oven, freezer, dishwasher, and microwave, Teema is not only beautiful but incredibly practical. It’s the perfect introduction to the Teema collection and makes an elegant, timeless gift for weddings or special occasions.
3.
Wedgwood Gio 10 Piece Dinner Set
Modern minimalist charm.
The Wedgwood Gio 10 Piece Dinner Set brings effortless elegance to any meal. The clean white design, with its subtle geometric embossing, creates a contemporary feel that’s both sleek and timeless. Whether you're plating a delicate appetizer or a decadent dessert, the minimalist aesthetic of the Gio set makes each dish feel like a masterpiece.
What makes this set truly versatile is its ability to complement both everyday dining and special occasions. It pairs beautifully with Wedgwood’s colorful ranges for a bolder look, or can stand alone to maintain a refined, understated style. With its modern charm and practical design, the Gio set is perfect for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship with a fresh, contemporary twist.
4.
La Boule Dinner Set by Villeroy & Boch
Harmonious blend of artistry and functionality.
Villeroy & Boch’s La Boule Dinner Set is more than just a table setting, it’s a work of art. Designed to form a striking spherical sculpture when assembled, each piece in this set, from the serving plate to the small bowls, is meticulously crafted to create a visually dynamic experience. The combination of deep black and radiant white not only emphasizes the contrast between the two but adds a modern, artistic flair that blends the classic with the contemporary.
What sets La Boule apart is its attention to detail, from the alternating gloss and matte finishes that play with light and shadow, to the luxurious presentation in a premium cardboard box. This set is ideal for those who appreciate both functional design and artistic expression. With its elegant yet bold aesthetic, La Boule is perfect for anyone who wants to elevate their dining experience, while also making a statement in their home décor.
5.
Gibson Home Oslo Porcelain Dinnerware Set
A blend of timeless elegance and practicality, perfect for everyday use.
The Gibson Home Oslo Dinnerware Set offers a blend of timeless elegance and practicality, perfect for everyday use. This set includes four dinner plates, dessert plates, dinner bowls, and cereal bowls, all crafted from AB-grade porcelain. The durable, lightweight material is not only heat-resistant and BPA-free, but also dishwasher and microwave safe, making it as easy to care for as it is beautiful.
What we love most about this set is its modern design. The classic pearl porcelain is elevated with a contemporary lip around each piece, giving it a sleek and stylish look that works in any setting. Whether you’re serving up a casual family meal or setting the table for guests, the Gibson Home Oslo set’s embossed floral pattern adds a subtle touch of sophistication. For those who want a practical yet stylish dinnerware set that will last, this one ticks all the boxes.
6.
Amazon Basics Dinnerware Set
Reliable, everyday dinnerware.
For those who need reliable, everyday dinnerware, the Amazon Basics 16-Piece Porcelain Set delivers both style and functionality. This set includes four dinner plates, salad/dessert plates, bowls, and coffee/tea mugs, making it perfect for casual meals at home or outdoor dining. The lightweight yet durable BPA-free porcelain features a crisp white finish that complements any table setting.
What makes this set stand out is its practicality. Safe for the dishwasher, freezer, and microwave, it’s designed to handle all your daily needs. The plates can withstand heat up to 572°F, making them perfect for reheating leftovers or serving piping hot meals. If you're looking for a versatile, no-fuss dinnerware set that covers all your bases, this one is a solid choice for any kitchen.
7.
Lenox Oneida Organic Shades Dinnerware Set
Calming slate blue glazed finish.
The Lenox Oneida Organic Shades 12-Piece Dinnerware Set brings a touch of natural beauty to your table with its calming slate blue glazed finish. This stoneware set embraces simplicity with a design that feels both earthy and refined. The collection’s worldly hues complement every moment, making it a perfect choice for both casual meals and special occasions.
We particularly loved the set’s versatility and the way it blends effortlessly into any dining setting. The 10.25” dinner plates, 9” accent plates, and 7” all-purpose bowls offer the ideal size for various dishes, while the stoneware’s durability ensures they can be used daily. Microwave and dishwasher-safe, this set is as practical as it is beautiful, ideal for anyone seeking a mix of timeless design and easy maintenance.
8.
Rosenthal Joyn Grey 18-Piece Set
A fresh, modern twist to fine dining.
The Rosenthal Joyn Grey Set brings a fresh, modern twist to fine dining with its simple and natural aesthetic. This 18-piece set includes six 20 cm flat plates, six combi cups, and six combi saucers, all crafted from fine porcelain with a subtle grey finish. The design strikes the perfect balance between contemporary urban style and relaxed, casual elegance.
What we love about this set is how it merges fine dining with everyday comfort. The combination of smooth porcelain and wooden accents gives each piece a light, airy feel that makes it ideal for both casual meals and more formal settings. Whether you're enjoying a quiet cup of coffee or setting the table for a dinner gathering, the Joyn set’s modern design adds a touch of sophistication without feeling overly formal.
9.
Mikasa Ellie Grey 16-Piece Dinnerware Set
Feel the unique, handcrafted charm.
The Mikasa Ellie Grey 16-Piece Dinnerware Set is a perfect blend of organic elegance and functional design. The delicately embossed beaded detailing around the rim, combined with a light gray reactive glaze finish, gives each piece a unique, handcrafted charm. Due to the nature of reactive glaze, no two pieces are alike, making every dish feel one-of-a-kind.
This set includes four 11-inch dinner plates, 8-inch salad plates, 6-inch soup/cereal bowls, and 15-ounce mugs, all crafted from durable stoneware. We particularly love how the subtle variations in color and pattern bring a touch of artistry to your table. Microwave and dishwasher safe, it’s as practical as it is beautiful—ideal for those who appreciate both style and ease in their everyday dining.
10.
Teivio 48-Piece Wheat Straw Square Dinnerware Set
Practical and eco-friendly solution.
The Teivio 48-Piece Wheat Straw Square Dinnerware Set offers a practical and eco-friendly solution for modern dining. Made from natural wheat straw and food-grade PP material, this set includes 12 dinner plates, 12 salad plates, 12 snack bowls, and 12 tumblers, each with a vibrant and fresh look that makes it easy to match with your existing flatware. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a picnic, or just having an everyday meal, this set has you covered.
What stands out about this set is its unbreakable nature. Unlike traditional porcelain or ceramic, these pieces are lightweight, durable, and won’t chip or break, making them perfect for kids or outdoor use. The square shape and smooth edges allow for easy stacking and efficient storage, saving valuable space in your kitchen. Dishwasher and freezer safe, these pieces are incredibly easy to clean and maintain, making them a great choice for busy households or on-the-go meals.
No matter your style or occasion, the perfect dinnerware set can transform any meal into a memorable experience. From the sleek, modern designs of Iittala and Wedgwood to the timeless elegance of Villeroy & Boch and Mikasa, there’s a set for every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of sophistication or simply elevate your everyday dining, the right dinnerware can bring both beauty and functionality to your table. So, whether you're setting the scene for a special gathering or just enjoying a quiet meal at home, these collections will help you create a setting that reflects your unique style.
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