Maybe you are in your first apartment. Perhaps you are an established person who wants a refresh. Either way, here is what we have found make a great basic tablescape for yourself or in anticipation of planning to entertain a small group. The budget is up to you, but remember, you don’t have to spend tons of money on these pieces—you just have to love them. Time to go shopping for essential dishware and serveware.
1. Everyday dishes
We are fans of basic white dishware. Not only are they classic, but they go with any pop of color or pattern you might want to add. You can find these at most houseware or department stores at affordable prices. If you are able, purchase essential dishware individually, rather than in a large dishware set. Down the road you may need to replace them and rather than being forced to buy four or eight, you can buy one or two. There’s always that one dish that chips for no reason, right?
Purchase four to six of each. This should be enough for a small dinner party and also give you a break from doing dishes every night if it’s just you or you and one other. Here are some favorites.
Aspen Coupe Dinner Plate
This is a simple and smooth design that looks great alongside any plate or bowl. It is also large enough to create a beautiful dinner and looks great for everyday use or for guests.
Aspen Coupe Salad Plate
The beauty of this salad plate is that it can double as a first course or appetizer plate, a breakfast or lunch plate or a small dinner plate depending on what you are serving. It is the sister of the above dinner plate and looks beautiful with any style. Make it a part of your essential dishware choices.
Flitighet Bowl
This essential dishware bowl is perfect for soups, a first course or dessert. It’s deep enough for that extra scoop of ice cream but small enough to stack in your cabinet and not take up too much room.
2. Dual use flatware and glassware
There is nothing better than finding a product that you can utilize in a couple ways. It creates dual purpose, reclaims room in your kitchen and saves you money (winner winner, chicken dinner). The key is to buy something of quality and take care of it as best as you can.
Oneida® Soar Flatware
This flatware is so simple and brilliant that you will love to use it every day, as well as for a more formal occasion. What makes it a standout is the shine on the stem. Now, let’s be real. If you use a dishwasher, sometimes water spots can show up on utensils, but no worries. You can keep them in tip top shape, especially when you set the table for guests, with a clean kitchen cloth or special gloves. We are fans of MAAS ® polishing gloves. If you need even more help, MAAS ® Flatware and Metal Polish is the perfect accessory as well.
Rings Cooler Glasses
These glasses are a wonderfully classic design with a fun ring flair that makes any color of drink burst. The sturdiness is perfect for frequent use and lovely enough to serve a cocktail. Be sure to have on hand short and tall versions for many purposes. Depending on how many plates you purchase, match with the same number of glasses.
Tour Water Goblet
For a little more elegance on your tablescape, add a more formal water goblet. The stemware is crystal clear and creates some height alongside your dinnerware. Don’t forget a pitcher to impress your guests.
3. Serveware
There are many different sizes and shapes of serveware out there, but when it comes down to it, you only need basic platters and serving bowls. Start with one or two of each and add what is needed depending on what you serve. It comes down to personal preference, but we are fans of a rectangular large platter and two sizes of bowls for smaller or larger sides or main dishes. Don’t forget serving spoons, forks and tongs. Remember that when you purchase a stemware set, it may come with those pieces. If you need to supplement, individual serving utensils are sold at many stores.
Everyday White® by Fitz and Floyd® Rectangular Platter
This platter is practical in a few ways. Utilize it to serve appetizers, then the main course and, of course, save room to serve dessert. You can even add the main dish and sides for two and only be left with having to clean one platter (woo-hoo)!
Bistro Bowls
These bowls are so versatile that you will find yourself using them fairly often. The 8″ version can be used for serving a side or even a main course. Often a bowl this size can be used to hold a soup, stew or chili beautifully for lunch or dinner. Make an egg scramble for breakfast or use it for a large salad. We suggest purchasing at least four of these for the adaptability. The larger 8 1/2″ version has double the depth and is perfect to serve a main course pasta or rice dish.
The takeaway
Remember, your kitchen is the source of goodness. It should be a place of Zen and somewhere you want to spend time with the right tools. Pick your favorites, find quality pieces and get ready to cook some deliciousness. Get what you need and set a beautiful table for yourself, you and a friend or loved one or a small dinner party.
Pop Culture Obsession
While you are doing some online shopping, don’t forget to add a little fun into it. Fundamentals of Flavor is also pop culture obsessed, so here are our suggestions.
Listen to: “Got to be Real” by Cheryl Lynn
Watch: “Sex and The City” – A Woman’s Right to Shoes (Season 6, Episode 9)
[you will enjoy Carrie running around town buying presents for the five showers she has to attend]
Fine, I’ll take four espresso cups and a pepper grinder.
–Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City
White Rice, Brown Rice, What’s the Difference?
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