10 Must-Have Pieces of Dinnerware for a Perfect Holiday Table
Posted by Belle and June on December 20, 2023
We all want memorable and festive dinners this holiday season, but many of us lack that perfect table setting that blends functionality with style. After all, our lives are busy, and sometimes paper plates just have to cut it.
Fortunately, whether you’re looking for fine bone china or durable stoneware, there are dinnerware sets out there that can complete your holiday decor. You just need to know which essential pieces will suit your style, budget, and needs.
At Belle & June, we’re experts in everything dinnerware. Learn how to make personalized dinnerware pieces the focal point of your holiday celebrations with this comprehensive guide.
Common Dinnerware Pieces For The Holidays
Harkening back to your childhood memories, you might picture festive dinner plates, cozy pie dishes, and more. capturing that magical feeling once more requires a detailed understanding of which dinnerware pieces set the stage. With that in mind, here are some common dinnerware pieces that are essential for a festive and inviting holiday table:
- Plates & Bowls: Dinner plates charger plates, appetizer plates, and salad/soup bowls
- Oven To Table: Pie dishes, ramekins, and casseroles/bakers
- Drinkware: Drinking glasses, wine glasses, coffee mugs, and pitchers
- Table Linens: Placemats, tablecloths, runners, and dinner napkins
- Flatware: forks, knives, spoons, and other serving utensils
- Serveware: Serving bowls, platters, cake stands, lazy susans, and carving boards
- Other considerations: coasters, candle holders, and other holiday decor
What to Consider Before Buying Dinnerware Pieces
When looking to buy dinnerware, there are a few factors to consider before making a purchase. After all, it’s important to choose your dinnerware based on your personal taste and lifestyle. Here are the top considerations that should be at the back of your mind:
- Level of durability: Consider the durability of the dinnerware, especially if you plan to use it regularly. Materials like stoneware and porcelain are known for their durability, making them suitable for everyday use. Fine china, while elegant, may be more delicate and better suited for special occasions.
- Care requirements: Think about your ability to care for certain dinnerware sets, and ensure that the requirements align with your preferences and lifestyle. Some pieces may be dishwasher and microwave-safe, offering convenience in maintenance. While others may require more delicate handling.
- Formality: Consider how formal your holiday dinner will be. Formal dinner parties may call for fine china with intricate details, while casual gatherings might be better suited for durable stoneware or porcelain with simpler designs. Matching the formality of the dinnerware to the occasion enhances the overall dining experience.
- Shape: Explore different shapes of dinnerware to match your preferred style. Round plates and bowls offer a classic look, while square or rectangular pieces can bring a modern touch to the table. Consider how the shape of the dinnerware complements the holiday aesthetic you want to achieve.
- Color: The color of your dinnerware contributes significantly to the visual appeal of your table setting. Neutral tones provide a timeless and versatile backdrop, allowing your food to take center stage. Alternatively, bold and vibrant colors can add a festive touch, especially during holidays. Choose colors that resonate with your personal style and your desired ambiance.
- Number of guests: Hosting the entire family this holiday season? If that’s the case, it’s important to ensure you have enough dinnerware pieces. Consider investing in sets that accommodate your usual gatherings or opt for open-stock dinnerware that allows you to add pieces as needed.
How Much Should You Spend on a Dinnerware
When trying to create the best setup for your dinner table, you should also consider the price. Quality dinnerware can be surprisingly affordable, but you can also opt for more expensive materials to achieve that classy holiday look.
Here are the main factors to consider:
- Your Budget: What you can afford is always the most important factor in deciding how much to spend on dinnerware. Take the time to figure out what you can realistically afford before you start shopping.
- Materials: Certain dinnerware materials are more affordable than other materials. For instance, bone china will set you back more than a durable stoneware set.
- Quantities: Consider how many people you need to serve. Having to purchase larger dinnerware sets is more expensive overall, but can also come with valuable discounts.
Ultimately there is no wrong amount to spend on dinnerware pieces. Just think about what you need for the holidays before purchasing and stick with what you feel most comfortable spending.
The Top 10 Must-Have Pieces of Dinnerware
1. Dinner Plates
Dinner plates are the cornerstone of any dinner party and are one of the most important pieces your guests will use. Plates come in countless shapes, sizes, materials, and colors, making them a great starting point when choosing your ideal holiday aesthetic.
Our top 3 holiday dinner plate picks:
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Italian Stoneware
10.5"D
Yes, with non-abrasive detergent on air dry cycle
Yes
Yes
Yes, but return to room temperature before placing in the oven
These holiday plates feature handpainted tree patterns on Italian stoneware made in Tuscany. The cheerful design is complemented by a rustic yet chic shape. It’s perfect for any festive or casual family gathering around the holidays.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Terra Bianca
11.5"D
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
These merry and bright nutcracker-inspired pieces can be purchased individually or in a set of four dinner plates. Each plate is large enough for any holiday dish, with the benefit of being easy to care for and maintain after a large holiday dinner.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Porcelain
10"D
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
These exquisite and convenient festive dinner plates are made from materials sourced in France and greater Europe. Each dish is crafted with care and fired at 2550 degrees Fahrenheit resulting in exceptionally high-quality porcelain. Purchase a set of four dinner plates or opt for just a few.
2. Soup & Salad Bowls
Elevate your holiday feast with an array of soup and salad bowls. Whether you're serving creamy butternut squash soup or a vibrant winter salad, these bowls add depth and variety to your table. Choose designs that complement your overall theme and provide the perfect vessels for your delicious creations.
Our top 3 holiday soup & salad bowl picks:
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Italian Stoneware
8.75"D x 1.5"H
Yes, with non-abrasive detergent on air dry cycle
Yes
Yes
Yes, but return to room temperature before placing in the oven
The Lastra Holiday Pasta Bowl brings charm and joy to any holiday arrangement, featuring an elegantly sophisticated design with rustic edges. Inspired by the straps used to form cheese in Italy for centuries, this product's unique shape adds a touch of tradition and sophistication to your dining room table.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Glass
6.5"D x 2.5"H
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes, but return to room temperature before placing in the oven
Glass is easy to use and a breeze to clean, so why not spice up your dining table with this luxurious glass cereal bowl? The bowl adorns the traditional holiday cranberry, with the elegance of gilded gold glass.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Italian Stoneware
5"L x 6.5"W x 2.5"H
Yes, with non-abrasive detergent on air dry cycle
Yes
Yes
Yes, but return to room temperature before placing in the oven
Create everlasting memories with your loved ones this season as you come together around this delightful cardinal-inspired bowl. Crafted with care by master artisan Stefano Roselli, this bowl represents love and joy. It’s the perfect size for sauces, soups, and more.
3. Serving Bowls
Ensure every dish has its moment at your holiday gathering by incorporating a variety of serving bowls. From mashed potatoes to cranberry sauce, these bowls not only enhance the presentation but also facilitate easy serving. Explore different shapes and sizes to create a dynamic and visually appealing spread.
Our top 3 holiday serving bowl picks:
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Italian Stoneware
7.5"L x 5"W x 2.75"H
Yes, with non-abrasive detergent on air dry cycle
Yes
Yes
Yes, but return to room temperature before placing in the oven
Featuring hand-painted fir trees and vibrant cardinals, this playful and charming serving bowl enhances your table set. Plus, the handles on these bowls offer unmatched convenience when transferring hot dishes to the table.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Italian Stoneware
6.75"L x 11.75"W x 2.5"H
Yes, with non-abrasive detergent on air dry cycle
Yes
Yes
Yes, but return to room temperature before placing in the oven
Why serve one sauce or side when you can put two in these hand-carved arboreal serving bowls. They’re big enough to hold multiple options without taking up too much space at the table.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Porcelain
8"L x 3.75"W
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
You’ll need somewhere to put your gravy this holiday season, and this porcelain dinnerware is the perfect choice. Stylish and classy, this sauceboat makes it easy to adorn your dishes with all your favorite toppings.
4. Pie Plates & Dishes
Capture the essence of classic holiday desserts with dedicated pie dishes and plates. The iconic pie shape adds a nostalgic touch to your table, and these dishes are perfect for baking and presenting everything from pumpkin pies to pecan delights.
Our top 3 holiday serving bowl picks:
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Porcelain
10"D x 1.75"H
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Pies are a staple of the holiday season, and this exquisite dish is crafted to produce the ideal pie. Featuring sleek walls and a subtly fluted rim, this dish ensures flawless presentation. Plus, being porcelain dinnerware, you can expect effortless maintenance and cleanup.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Porcelain
10.5"D x 1.5"H
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Pillivuyt porcelain is known for its excellent heat conduction and retention, allowing you to produce consistently beautiful bakes. The handles on this tart dish are also extra convenient for transporting delicious desserts from oven to table.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Porcelain
3.75"D x 2.5"H
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Pillivuyt's classic deep pleated soufflés feature remarkably thin walls, ensuring even heat distribution for flawlessly baked soufflés and wonderfully browned crusts. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, you can enhance your souffles this holiday season.
5. Casseroles & Bakers
Versatile and elegant, casseroles and bakers seamlessly transition from oven to table. These pieces come in various shapes and sizes, offering a stylish way to present your favorite holiday recipes. From cheesy gratins to hearty casseroles, these additions bring both functionality and sophistication to your spread.
Our top 3 holiday casserole and baker picks:
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Italian Stoneware
16.5"L x 8.25"W x 3.75"H
Yes, with non-abrasive detergent on air dry cycle
Yes
Yes
Yes, but return to room temperature before placing in the oven
Another Lastra holiday classic, this large baker makes oven to table transfers easy, even when serving the whole family. The lovely painted trees match many of the other essentials on this list, allowing you to create the perfect holiday dinnerware set.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Italian Stoneware
10.5"L x 4"H
Yes, with non-abrasive detergent on air dry cycle
Yes
Yes
Yes
With a refined white glaze on Italian stoneware, this casserole dish is an adaptable choice for any formal table. Plus, its exquisite details make it a sophisticated and distinctive addition to any tabletop.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Porcelain
7.75"D x 2.35"H
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Adorned with enchanting Nordic designs, this porcelain gratin dish showcases the signature pleated base from the Toulouse collection. Sure to pass scratch tests, it's perfect for casseroles, gratins, and other delightful dishes.
6. Drinkware
Raise a toast to the season with the right drinkware. Whether it's simple glass cups or elegant wine glasses, the right choice of drinkware enhances the overall dining experience. Consider the beverages you'll be serving, from festive eggnog to sparkling cider, and select drinkware that complements the celebratory mood.
Our top 3 holiday drinkware picks:
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Porcelain
3"D x 4"H
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
In the same collection as the Toulouse dinnerware set, these charming cups bring holiday cheer to any occasion. Enjoy peppermint tea and hot chocolate by the fire, with the added benefit of easy cleanup.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Glass
3.5"D x 9"H
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Stylish and classy, these slightly translucent glasses are specially designed for red wine enthusiasts. Enjoy wine with friends and family this holiday season with these lightweight, durable, and easy-to-clean glasses.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Terra Bianca
4.5"H
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Mix and match your favorite holiday nutcracker mugs with this set of four. They’ll perfectly match any other nutcracker-inspired serving pieces on a cozy winter’s night, with the added benefit of a comfortable mug handle.
Bonus - Coasters
Want to keep your countertops clean and protected this holiday season? Consider pairing your drinkware with charming and practical coasters. Here are our top picks:
- Pedra Azure Agate Coasters: Just one option in a showstopping collection of gemstone coasters. Each purchase comes in a set of 4.
- Browmley Beige Coaster Set: Match any dinnerware set with these rustic hair-on-hide coasters. You’ll receive a set of six with their very own coaster box.
- Winsford Shiny Nickel Coasters: Sheek and modern, these shiny nickel coasters are durable enough to withstand any spill. Each purchase comes with a set of 6 coasters.
7. Pitchers & Carafes
If you’ve ever been to a restaurant with pitchers, you know how valuable and convenient they can be to your dining experience. To enhance the overall dining experience, consider including one for your guests this holiday season.
Our top 3 holiday pitcher and carafes picks:
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Italian ceramic
12.5" H
Yes
Yes
Yes, on a low heat setting
No
Whether you need a centerpiece to hold festive holy plants or a large container to hold drinks, this pitcher is a beautiful addition to your holiday place settings. It’s made with black Italian clay and features a variety of glaze colors.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Porcelain
3"H
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Need something smaller for creamer or butter? Look no further than these adorable and charming pitchers. Made from porcelain, you can easily heat up liquids and clean the pitchers out when finished.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Mouth Blown Lead Free Crystal
9"H
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Simple and clean, this carafe allows you to highlight your favorite wine and makes pouring easy for your guests. A practical handle and easy to clean after a long night of festivities, what more could you ask for?
8. Flatware
Ensure a seamless dining experience with the right utensils. Stainless steel utensils like forks, knives, spoons, and pastry servers with wooden or acrylic handles are as elegant as they are practical.
Our top 3 holiday flatware picks:
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
18/10 Stainless Steel, Acrylic
-
Yes, with non-abrasive detergent on air dry cycle
No
No
Green or red utensils from the Aladdin flatware line will perfectly match your holiday dinnerware set. They feature elegant pearlized handles with the strength of high-grade acrylic and 18/10 stainless steel. The handles are wrapped with intricate lattice metalwork.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Pewter
10.5"L
No
No
No
Perfect for serving all your favorite holiday pies and tarts, this vintage pastry server is a must-have this time of the year. Each is made in Italy by a skilled artisan with the finest quality pewter, distressed, and hand-finished for a rich patina.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
18/10 Stainless Steel, Oak Wood
11.25"L
Yes, with non-abrasive detergent on air dry cycle
No
No
Serve up everyone's favorite mashed potatoes and baked mac and cheese with this high-quality serving spoon. The large spoon features a warm wooden handle made from oak, enhancing its aesthetic.
9. Platters & Serving Trays
Present your culinary masterpieces in style with the inclusion of platters and serving trays. Whether it's a beautifully carved turkey or an array of appetizers, these pieces contribute to the overall visual appeal of your holiday spread.
Our top 3 holiday platter and serving tray picks:
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Porcelain
14"L x 4.5"W x 1.25"H
Yes
Yes
Yes
This nordic-inspired serving tray features unique Plisse detailing, blending style with durability. Embrace the holiday spirit and serve your favorite appetizers, small bites, or desserts in exquisite winter-inspired design.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Pewter
16.5" L X 10.5" W
No
No
No
Part of a larger vintage pewter collection, this dinnerware piece is handcrafted in Italy with immaculate detail Carry your holiday turkey, chicken, or roast pig out with style using this timeless serving tray.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Oven Safe
Freezer Safe
Glass
13"D
Yes
Yes
Yes
Festive and easy to clean, this glass platter features traditional holiday berries in a gilded gold glass. Pair with other Cranberry Glass table dinnerware for a regal look.
10. Cake Stands
Enhance your dessert presentation with dedicated cake stands. These elevated platforms allow you to showcase holiday cakes and treats, adding a touch of sophistication to the finale of your holiday feast.
Our top 3 holiday cake stand picks:
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Freezer Safe
Terra Bianca
12.5"D x 3.5"H
Yes
Yes
Yes
Festive and artistic, this cake stand is perfect for presenting your homemade cake this holiday season. Made from white earthware clay, this stand can easily be stored in your fridge or freezer when not on the table.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Freezer Safe
Glass
8.5"D x 5"H
Yes
Yes
Yes
There’s nothing more charming than small cakes, and this cake stand is the best way to display them. Bring cakes to your dining room table with ease, and then enjoy a hassle-free cleanup.
Material
Dimensions
Dishwasher Safe
Microwave Safe
Freezer Safe
Italian Stoneware
11.25"D x 5.25"H
Yes, with non-abrasive detergent on air dry cycle
Yes
Yes, but return to room temperature before placing in the oven
Complete your Lastra holiday dinnerware set with this durable cake stand. It goes anywhere your cake needs to go and complicates your holiday color palette with ease.
Bonus - Ramekins
An often forgotten, but nonetheless delightful addition to your holiday feast, ramekins are the perfect small dinnerware piece. They add charm to your table set and provide a place for individual portions of appetizers, sides, or decadent desserts.
Complete Your Holiday Spread With Dinnerware Sets
Enhance the festive spirit of your holiday gatherings by completing your table with a durable dinnerware set. High-quality sets not only bring a sense of harmony and coordination to your table but also serve as a stylish canvas for your delicious holiday dishes.
Versatility is key when it comes to choosing the best dinnerware sets. Look for sets that offer a range of the pieces listed above. The convenience of matching serving pieces and easy coordination makes the entire dining experience seamless and visually appealing.
Here are some of the best dinnerware choices for your table this holiday:
1. Cranberry Dinnerware
Featuring the holiday berry and gilded gold, this glass dinnerware set includes a luxurious mix of:
- Dinner plates
- Serving platters
- Cereal bowls
- Large bowls
- Salad plates
- Charger plates
- Cake stands
2. Lastra Holiday Dinnerware
With a charming mix of fir trees and birds on rustic white Italian stoneware, this dinnerware set has everything you need for a holiday gathering:
- Serving bowls
- Serving platters
- Utensil holders
- Spoon rests
- Napkins
- Sauce servers
- Cups
- Dinner plates
- Pasta bowls
- Cereal bowls
- Bakers
- Olive oil cans
- Cake stands
3. Nutcracker Dinnerware
Love nutcrackers? Bring your dinner table to life this holiday season with these white earthenware pieces. The set includes:
- Cereal bowls
- Dinner plates
- Salad plates
- Cake stands
- Cheese boards
- Serving platters
- Serving bowls
- Utensil holders
- Mugs
Shop Our Holiday Collections at Belle and June
Discover our wide selection of holiday dinnerware sets and pieces at Belle and June, perfect for hosting your friends and family this holiday season. Visit our website at https://www.belleandjune.com to shop our catalog today. From dinner plates made from durable materials to exquisite serving platters, we offer the best holiday dinnerware with easy care instructions.