Commercial Dinnerware & Restaurant Dishes

Restaurant dinnerware ranges from essential to extravagant, so operators can find pieces suitable for any menu and decor. Owners of trendy farm-to-table eateries may prefer rustic dinnerware in natural earth tones, while those running themed restaurants often choose bright, bold pieces with simple lines. While classic white porcelain adds a touch of luxury to fine dining establishments, venues serving family-friendly meals would most benefit from sturdy restaurant dishes made of a shatterproof material.

When it comes to durability, restaurant dinnerware takes the cake. Unlike dishes designed for home use, commercial dishes must be washed and reused dozens of times per day, so they're often safe to use in dishwashers and resistant to scratches, chips, and stains. Many designs feature rolled edges, thick walls, or an integrated foot to prevent damage at the most vulnerable points. Some restaurant dishes for sale are vitrified, meaning they're fired at temperatures exceeding 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit to achieve a hard, smooth surface resistant to water absorption and stress cracks.

Modern restaurant dinnerware can be made of materials other than classic ceramic and porcelain. Melamine, for example, is a medium frequently molded into various shapes and textures to mimic wood, stone, porcelain, and other common materials. Commercial dinnerware made of melamine is affordable and lightweight, making it a popular choice among restaurant owners wanting to adhere to a budget without sacrificing style. Another durable option is polycarbonate. Polycarbonate wares are often the most economical option, especially for food and drinks being served poolside, on a patio, or in a cafeteria.