An Exhaustive Guide to the Best Everyday Plates And Bowls

Our pick: Gibson Elite Matisse 16 Piece Double Bowl Dinnerware Set

I’ve been using this Gibson stoneware dinnerware set for a few weeks, and it stands out for its deep cobalt blue color and unique reactive glaze. Every piece has subtle variations that make the table feel a little more special, whether for daily meals or casual gatherings.

Pros

• Stunning cobalt blue reactive glaze

• Each piece is unique thanks to the artisanal finish

• Two bowl sizes are practical for pasta, soups, and cereals

• Microwave and dishwasher safe for easy everyday use

Cons

• Slightly heavier than porcelain or glass sets

If you want durable stoneware that’s both functional and eye-catching, this Gibson set is a great choice. The reactive glaze makes every meal feel a bit more elevated, and the double bowl design adds versatility. Perfect for anyone who loves handcrafted style without sacrificing everyday practicality.

Also great: Famiware Milkyway Plates and Bowls Set

I’ve been using this Famiware dinnerware set for everyday meals, and it’s a solid choice if you appreciate simple, modern design with a touch of rustic charm. The speckled glaze looks warm and casual, and the stoneware feels sturdy enough for daily dining.

Pros

• Speckled glaze adds a nice handcrafted look

• Scratch-resistant finish holds up well against cutlery

• Microwave and dishwasher safe for convenience

• Plates and bowls stack easily to save cupboard space

Cons

• Limited color options for those who prefer brighter or bolder tones

If you like understated, earthy style, this Famiware set does a great job balancing durability and design. It’s practical for family meals and looks nice enough for casual entertaining too. Good value for anyone wanting reliable, easy-care stoneware.

Also great: MALACASA Plates and Bowls Sets

After using this MALACASA porcelain dinnerware set for daily meals, I can say it’s a practical and sleek choice for small households. The simple, flat design fits modern table settings, and the sturdy porcelain holds up well to everyday use.

Pros

• Durable, chip- and crack-resistant porcelain

• Lead-free, stain-resistant glaze

• Space-saving flat design stacks neatly

• Dishwasher and microwave safe

Cons

• Limited design variety for those wanting more decorative patterns

This MALACASA set is ideal if you want fuss-free dinnerware that looks clean and modern. It’s sturdy enough for daily use, easy to clean, and saves space in the cupboard. A reliable pick for small families or couples wanting affordable porcelain without extra maintenance.

Source: Amazon

The best dinnerware for daily use is durable, practical, and easy to clean. Porcelain is one of the top choices — it’s strong yet lightweight, dishwasher and microwave safe, and versatile enough for everyday family meals or special occasions. Stoneware is another good option — it’s sturdy, has a warm, handcrafted look, and holds up well if handled with care. Many busy households love Corelle’s Vitrelle tempered glass dinnerware because it’s famously resistant to chips and cracks, stacks neatly, and is light but tough. For kids or outdoor dining, melamine is super practical since it won’t break if dropped (just don’t microwave it).

Who makes the best dinnerware sets?

Several brands are trusted for quality, durability, and style:

• Corelle — famous for its lightweight, chip-resistant tempered glass plates that families keep for decades.

• Lenox — known for beautiful bone china and porcelain that feels elegant but handles daily use well.

• Noritake and Wedgwood — classic choices for fine porcelain and bone china that look timeless and last with care.

• Mikasa — popular for stylish stoneware and porcelain dinnerware at a good value.

• Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, and Williams Sonoma — great places to find modern, well-made stoneware or porcelain that balances durability and design.

Which dinnerware set material is best for health?

For health and safety, choose lead-free porcelain, bone china, stoneware, or tempered glass. These materials are non-porous and won’t leach harmful chemicals into your food. Many families trust Corelle’s glass plates because they’re naturally non-toxic and easy to keep clean. Food-grade stainless steel is another healthy option, especially for kids or outdoor use, since it won’t chip or wear down and doesn’t require a glaze. If you pick melamine for its durability, make sure it’s certified food-safe and don’t microwave it.

What color is best for dinnerware?

White is the most popular color for dinnerware — it’s timeless, goes with any table setting, and makes food look fresh and colorful. That’s why so many restaurants use plain white plates. If you want something softer, neutral shades like cream, light gray, or soft beige work well too and hide minor scratches. For a modern look, matte black or darker tones can look striking, but they can show utensil marks more easily. In general, choose a color that complements your style but keeps the focus on the food.