When it comes to setting up or running a restaurant, choosing the right commercial dinnerware can profoundly impact the overall atmosphere and experience for your guests.
From the quality and design of the plates, bowls, and serving dishes to how you present and serve meals, the right restaurant dinnerware sets the tone for your restaurant.
That’s why taking the time to make a well-thought-out decision is vital.
But how do you ensure you’re selecting the right dinnerware for the unique dining experience you want to create?
In this guide, we’re helping you narrow your selections and speed up the decision-making process by exploring all the factors you need to consider when shopping for restaurant dinnerware.
Let’s get started!
What to ask yourself when buying commercial dishes
Buying restaurant dinnerware can be painful if you don’t know what to look out for. Here are some essential factors to consider when choosing restaurant dinnerware to help you make a well-informed decision.
#1 What is your budget?
Commercial dinnerware can range in price from budget-friendly options to premium products.
So before researching, it’s a good idea to set a rough budget and estimate how many dinner plates, bowls, serving trays, etc., you’ll need to run the restaurant effectively.
Keep in mind that purchasing high-quality, durable dinnerware can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for replacements.
#2 What material makes sense?
The material of your restaurant dinnerware will significantly impact its durability, weight, and overall appearance. The most common materials for commercial dishes are porcelain, bone china, melamine, plastic, metal, and stainless steel.
Porcelain dishes are strong, durable, and versatile, making them popular in fine dining restaurants. Bone china dinnerware is lighter than porcelain and has a more elegant appearance, making it the preferred choice by most high-end restaurants.
Melamine dinnerware is lightweight, made of shatter-resistant plastic, and less expensive; that’s why you’ll often see melamine dinnerware in casual dining and outdoor dining experiences.
Stainless steel and metal dinnerware are heavy-duty, durable, and easy to clean, ideal for restaurants with high volume or that specialize in dishes with sauces or liquids.
#3 Does it match your restaurant style?
The style of your dinnerware should complement the overall aesthetic of your restaurant and help create a cohesive look and feel.
From contemporary and rustic to classic and quirky dinnerware options, there are various styles to choose from. Consider your restaurant’s cuisine, atmosphere, and target customers when choosing a particular style of dinner plates, serving trays, and bowls.
#4 Does it match your restaurant’s color palette?
The color of your dinnerware complements your restaurant’s overall look and pulls together your interior design.
Choose commercial-grade dinnerware colors that match or contrast nicely with your restaurant’s déco or opt for neutral colors like white, cream, or beige for a classic look.
Remember that the color of your dinnerware and restaurant plates should make the food you’re serving look even more beautiful and not detract from the presentation.
#5 Is the size and shape right for your meals?
Most restaurants will serve food that requires a specific shape and size of dinner plates, bowls, or serving dishes to look appetizing and control the portion size.
So consider how large your portion sizes are, and choose plates, bowls, and serving dishes that make sense for each particular meal.
When considering the size and shape of your commercial dinnerware, you should also ensure it will fit nicely within your designated storage space and match your unique restaurant style.
Rectangular plates are popular for contemporary dishes, while round plates are more traditional. Square plates can add a modern touch to your presentation.
#6 Is it easy to clean and safe to use?
Try to prioritize safety and sanitation when choosing restaurant dishes. Some dinnerware may be prone to cracking, chipping, or staining, so choose durable dishes that can withstand the demands of a commercial kitchen.
It’s also a good idea to look for dishwasher-safe products that are easy for your servers to carry, place on tables, and lift back up to maximize efficiency.
Want to learn more? Read our “Comprehensive Guide To Selecting Commercial Dinnerware.”
#7 How sustainable are they?
Many restaurants are making more of an effort to choose sustainable products. From reducing single-use plastic to opting for more locally-grown produce, there are plenty of ways to make a positive environmental impact.
But did you know you can make more sustainable decisions with your commercial dinnerware? Look for biodegradable dishes or dishes made from sustainable materials to reduce your restaurant’s carbon footprint.
It would be best if you also considered choosing higher-quality dinnerware products that last longer, are less prone to breaking, and won’t end up in landfill.
#8 How trustworthy is the brand?
When selecting restaurant dinnerware, choosing a reputable brand with a proven track record of producing high-quality, long-lasting products is vital.
Look for commercial dinnerware brands with a reputation for quality and customer satisfaction, and choose products tested for durability and performance.
Need help choosing the best dinnerware for your needs? Talk to our experts!
From material selection to choosing the right colors to match your restaurant, there are many factors to consider when selecting the perfect dinnerware for your dining experience. But with our expert guidance, we know you’ll be able to make an informed decision.
If you’re still unsure, why not talk to our commercial dinnerware specialists at Corby Hall? We’re America’s go-to commercial dinnerware provider, celebrating 40+ years in business and more than 5,000 happy customers on our books.
With our high-quality products, commitment to service, and promise never to discontinue a line, trust you’ll receive the best support in the business to elevate your dining experiences when you choose Corby Hall.
