Although we primarily associate the term tableware with plates, glasses, and flatware, there are many additional types of tableware. In fact, some regions and cuisines have developed their own traditional tableware items. Chopsticks are a great example. There are also some differences between tableware for restaurants and the ones used by households. In this post, we’ll share more about the most popular types of tableware, what they’re made of, and what they’re used for. If you’re interested in the tableware market, make sure also to check out our post about tableware suppliers.
Key takeaway: Dinnerware, drinkware, and flatware are the most popular types of tableware. There are multiple varieties used for table settings and made of different materials.
Main Types of Tableware
There are hundreds of different types of tableware around the world. Some of them are used by billions of people while others are less common. Let’s examine the most popular tableware types and what they’re used for.
- Dinnerware. Dinner plates and soup bowls are the two most common types of tableware in this category. They come in various sizes and colors. Smaller plates are usually used for salads, appetizers, or desserts while large ones are used for main courses.
- Cutlery. That includes forks, knives, and spoons as primary examples. There are multiple varieties of flatware. For example, formal table settings might include cutlery such as a fish knife or cocktail fork. In recent years, hybrid utensils such as spork, spife, and knork have become popular.
- Drinkware. From beer mugs to espresso cups, there are various types of tableware that are used for beverages. Stemware (glasses where the bowl is on a stem above the base) is also considered a subcategory of glassware.
- Serveware. Serving bowls and trays are the most popular examples of serveware. However, this category also includes types of tableware such as gravy boats, bread baskets, casseroles, and teapots.
- Accessories. There are multiple accessories that are used in table settings. Napkin rings and table centerpieces fall under this category as well as condiment holders like salt and pepper shakers.
- Other custom or specific tableware. This category combines all other types of tableware that don’t fall under the previous categories. This includes culturally specific items such as sake cups or fondue pots. Smart utensils such as cutlery with stabilizers for seniors or self-heating dinnerware are definitely not high-demand products but they also fall under this category.
Common Materials Used for Different Types of Tableware
Various materials can be used to manufacture dinnerware or drinkware. In recent years, a major trend has been to switch to eco-friendly materials. Both food service businesses and sustainable suppliers focus more on reusable or biodegradable dinnerware and cutlery as they are among the major polluters worldwide. Here are the main materials used by manufacturers.
Ceramic-Based Materials
Porcelain is the most common one. It’s durable and fairly cheap. Porcelain can be used for both affordable and high-end luxury types of tableware. Bone china and stoneware are other materials in this subcategory.
Glass
Naturally, glass plays a major role in the tableware industry. It’s most commonly used for drinkware, but can also be an excellent option for plates, bowls, and serveware. Crystal is another type of glass that is often used for wine glasses or high-end products and plays a role in a restaurant’s marketing and guest experience.
Metal
Various types of metal can be used to make different types of tableware. Stainless steel is the most common one. It’s used not only for flatware but also for cheap and very durable plates, bowls, and serveware. Silver and gold are also used in the tableware niche market. As expected, they are more common for luxury items.
Plastics or Other Synthetics
As expected, plastic is most common for disposable tableware used by catering businesses, fast food chains, and other businesses where convenience is a top priority. Synthetics can also be used to make outdoor tableware or tumblers.
Cardboard
Just like plastics, its primary role is among restaurant supplies in the fast food industry. In recent years, a lot of business owners have been switching from plastic to cardboard disposable tableware as a more sustainable and biodegradable option.
Other Materials
Various types of tableware can be made from wood, palm leaves, silicone, or other natural and synthetic materials. One of the trends among distributors of wholesale restaurant supplies for the fast food sector is to offer eco-friendly cornstarch items or other sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic or paper.
How Businesses Use Different Types of Tableware
It’s no surprise that food service establishments are the main businesses that use different types of tableware. High-end establishments like Michelin-starred restaurants might partner with broadline distributors or manufacturers that offer various types of high-end tableware. On the other hand, small local restaurants usually search for affordability. That’s why they rarely use an extensive range of tableware items.
Most food service businesses prefer to get samples or examine tableware in brick-and-mortar stores. When it comes to wholesale sales, they expect distributors to offer them convenient eCommerce ordering solutions and attractive discounts (on top of the reduced wholesale prices) for large orders.
Tableware is a great way to build an atmosphere and a restaurant’s brand. That’s why it plays an important role in customer satisfaction among food service businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Different Types of Tableware
Whether you’re looking for resources on how to increase your B2B sales or you want to know the factors to consider when finding suppliers, BlueCart has tons of useful information for you. Below we’ve answered common questions regarding popular types of tableware and table settings.
What Are the Different Types of Table Settings?
There are three main ways to set the table – basic, informal, and formal. The basic setting includes a plate, a fork and a knife on the left and right, a water glass above the knife, and a napkin. The informal setting is similar to the basic one but with additional types of tableware. There are usually two plates stacked on top of each other, two forks and two knives (for salad and dinner), additional glasses for wine, and a dessert spoon or fork placed horizontally. Formal table settings are used for weddings or other special occasions and include additional cutlery, glassware, and a charger plate.
What Is Decorative Tableware?
Plates are the most common types of tableware that are also used for decoration. They usually have hand-painted motifs or other types of colorful patterns. Floral designs and scenic landscapes are popular for decorative plates. Even though most types of decorative tableware can be used to serve food, that’s rarely the case. Their design might be significantly damaged by the flatware. Instead, decorative plates can be used to create a better atmosphere in a food service establishment or complement the interior design.
What Is Edible Tableware?
Although it’s not one of the most popular types of tableware, edible cups and plates have become increasingly popular in recent years. As their name suggests, edible tableware are items that can be eaten after the food or the drink that they hold has been consumed. For example, an edible coffee cup can be a great dessert after a hot beverage. Ice cream cones are a great example of edible items that are used to hold the main food. In many cuisines, flatbread is also a type of edible tableware. It can be used to scoop food or wrap it.
BlueCart: Connecting Restaurants with Suppliers
If you’re looking to purchase different types of tableware wholesale, BlueCart is the right marketplace for you. Our platform connects wholesalers and restaurant businesses that search for distributors. Furthermore, thanks to our wholesale ordering software, you can automate various processes or easily compare prices between vendors. Schedule a free demo and see why BlueCart is among the major software solutions for suppliers in the restaurant industry.