Tableware Handling – The Basics Of Casual And Formal Table Setting

The kitchen and the dining area are the heart of every home. They are used a couple of times a day to prepare and serve meals. The dining area is also a crucial part of attractive home décor, which can be achieved by adding the appropriate tableware.

So, what is tableware? It consists of all the items used to set a table including various plates, platters, bowls, saucers, cups, forks, knives, spoons, and other items. When it comes to style and décor, Supper Club tableware can bring class, authenticity, and more, especially since their artisan tableware is handcrafted to display a simple elegance that can complement any dining room. That said, let us look at the basics of handling tableware for casual and formal table settings.

The Importance of Table Setting

Is there any good reason to bother with table setting? Why should you know the correct position to place crockery and cutlery on the table? Well, to start with, this is a great way to appreciate a good meal that is served in the right way. Additionally, your guests will appreciate how the tableware has been set, which shows that you care about their feelings. 

Basic Tableware Handling

Before setting a table in readiness for a meal, it is crucial to have clean and polished tableware. Most of the crockery should be warmed, especially the dinner plates, when possible. However, you can also place them on the table at room temperature. A good preparation means having all the tableware that you need for the meal, so check the menu of the day well to avoid a lot of movement when people start serving.

How to Do a Basic Table Setting

This table setting is common for a regular dinner or detailed weekend breakfast. It is simple and does not involve a lot of tableware items. Here is how to do it.

•       The table may have a tablecloth or not. If so, lay the cover on the table.
•       Place the dinner plate in the middle and a napkin on top of it. You can also place a soup bowl on top of the plate.
•       Place a dinner fork on the left and a dinner knife on the right. Then place a spoon next to the knife.

How to Do a Formal Table Setting

This table setting involves the use of more tableware because the meals are elaborate. It could be a three-course meal involving a starter, a main meal, and a dessert. Wine or juice is also served during the meal.

On top of the casual or basic setting discussed above, you will add a dessert cover above the dinner plate, a side plate on the top left corner of the cover, and wine glasses on the top right corner of the cover. 

Serving etiquette for formal dinners can follow various established standards. These prescribe different steps for handling the tableware such as clearing plates after each course, replacing dirty tableware, and more. So, the host or the server should keep a keen eye on how the dinner is progressing.

Final Thoughts on Tableware Handling

The art of table setting and handling tableware may seem somewhat complex at first. Basically, it is intended to spice up the mealtimes and add to the décor of your dining area. Now that you know the basics, your meals should never be boring whether you are serving a family breakfast or entertaining special guests over a formal dinner.

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