en:items:plates
Table of Contents
Plates (The Essential Guide)
Plates are the fundamental vessels of dining, serving as the stage for culinary presentation. From the grand decorative charger to the humble bread plate, each type has a specific size, function, and placement on the table.
Understanding the hierarchy of plates is essential for setting a proper table, whether for a casual bistro lunch or a formal state dinner.
1. The Anatomy of a Plate
- The Well (Verge): The center depression where food is placed.
- The Rim: The flat outer edge. In formal dining, the rim acts as a frame for the food and a place for the server to hold the plate without touching the meal.
- Coupe Shape: A modern style where the plate has no distinct rim, curving gently upward. This offers a larger surface area for food and is common in contemporary restaurants.
2. Types of Plates by Size & Function
| Type | Diameter (Approx.) | Function & Placement |
|---|---|---|
| Charger Plate (Service Plate) | 30–33 cm (12–13“) | A decorative base plate. Never used for food directly. It remains on the table until the main course is served. |
| Dinner Plate | 25–28 cm (10–11”) | The workhorse of the table. Used for the main entrée. |
| Luncheon Plate | 22–24 cm (9“) | Slightly smaller than a dinner plate, used for lighter meals or breakfast buffets. |
| Salad / Dessert Plate | 20–22 cm (8”) | Used for salads (before the main) or desserts (after the main). |
| Bread & Butter Plate (B&B) | 15–17 cm (6“) | The smallest plate, always placed at the top left of the setting (above the forks). |
3. Style Guide: Rim vs. Coupe
- Rimmed Plates:
- *Vibe:* Formal, Traditional, Elegant.
- *Best for:* Saucy dishes (the rim keeps liquids contained) and banquets.
- Coupe Plates:
- *Vibe:* Modern, Minimalist, Casual.
- *Best for:* Artistic plating, pasta, and “farm-to-table” aesthetics.
- *Brands:* Heath Ceramics, Villeroy & Boch.
4. Care and Storage
- Stacking: To prevent scratching the glaze, place a felt divider or a paper napkin between plates when stacking, especially for Bone China or plates with metallic rims.
- Microwave Safety: Always check for gold or platinum rims. Metallic accents will spark and damage the microwave.
— See Also:
en/items/plates.txt · Last modified: by winson