The 10 Best Stoneware Sets Reviewed

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

This 16-piece dinnerware set from Gibson blends everyday practicality with rich, artistic flair. Featuring a beautiful cobalt blue reactive glaze, each piece has its own unique pattern and tone, adding depth and character to the table. The inclusion of both cereal and dinner bowls offers added versatility, while the durable stoneware construction ensures long-term use. It’s a well-balanced set that delivers on style, function, and value.

Pros:

Unique Reactive Glaze Finish

Includes Both Cereal and Dinner Bowls

Microwave and Dishwasher Safe

Thick, Durable Stoneware

Cons:

Slight Color Variations May Not Suit Uniform Preferences

Ideal for those who appreciate handcrafted aesthetics with reliable durability, this Gibson stoneware set is a standout for both everyday dining and entertaining. With its deep hues and versatile design, it adds a touch of elegance while remaining highly functional for modern use.

Also great: Famiware Milkyway Plates and Bowls Set

This 12-piece dinnerware set from Famiware offers a thoughtful blend of durability, modern design, and functionality. With its soft, rounded shapes and subtle speckled glaze, the set adds a calming, contemporary touch to any table. Built to withstand everyday use, it’s both microwave and dishwasher safe, and the scratch-resistant finish ensures it holds up over time—even with frequent use of utensils.

Pros:

Durable, Scratch-Resistant Glaze

Microwave and Dishwasher Safe

Space-Saving Stackable Design

Unique Speckled Finish Adds Character

Cons:

No Larger Bowl Option for Hearty Meals

With its clean aesthetic, strong build, and user-friendly features, this Famiware dinnerware set is a great option for modern households looking for a mix of beauty and performance. It’s a practical yet stylish choice for daily dining and makes a thoughtful gift for new homes or special occasions.

Also great: AmorArc Ceramic Dinnerware Sets for 4

This 12-piece dinnerware set impresses with its artisanal reactive glaze that gives each plate and bowl a one-of-a-kind appearance. Fired at high temperatures with natural, lead- and cadmium-free materials, the set combines safety, style, and strength. The modern flat design adds a minimalist aesthetic while remaining practical for daily meals. It’s a well-balanced set that suits both casual and more refined dining experiences.

Pros:

Unique Reactive Glaze on Every Piece

Durable, Scratch-Resistant Finish

Lead- and Cadmium-Free Stoneware

Microwave, Dishwasher, and Freezer Safe

Cons:

Color Tone May Vary Slightly in Different Lighting

This dinnerware set is ideal for those who appreciate craftsmanship and want dishes that are both visually striking and made to last. With its sturdy build, elegant finish, and functional design, it’s a reliable and stylish choice for any kitchen.

Source: Amazon

A typical dish set, also known as a dinnerware set, includes the essential tableware needed for serving and eating a meal. While the exact contents can vary by brand or style, most standard dish sets are designed to serve 4, 6, 8, or more people and commonly include:

Dinner Plates: The largest plates, used for main courses.

Salad Plates (or Side Plates): Slightly smaller, used for appetizers, salads, or desserts.

Bowls: Often soup or cereal bowls, used for liquids or small portions.

Mugs or Cups: Included in many sets for beverages like coffee or tea.

For example, a 16-piece dish set for four people typically includes:

4 dinner plates

4 salad plates

4 bowls

4 mugs

Some expanded or formal sets may also include:

Soup plates or pasta bowls

Saucer plates (paired with cups)

Serving platters or serving bowls

Gravy boats or butter dishes (in traditional or holiday sets)

Always check the product description to see what’s included, as some sets focus only on the core pieces while others are more comprehensive.

What’s Good About Stoneware?

Stoneware is a type of ceramic made from dense clay and fired at high temperatures. It’s known for its strength, durability, and slightly rustic appearance, making it a popular choice for both everyday use and casual entertaining. Here’s what’s great about stoneware:

Durable & Chip-Resistant: Stoneware is thicker and tougher than many other ceramics, making it less likely to chip or crack during regular use.

Microwave & Dishwasher Safe: Most modern stoneware is safe for the microwave and dishwasher (always check labels). It handles temperature changes better than some cheaper ceramics.

Stylish & Versatile: Stoneware often has a more organic or artisanal look, with earthy glazes and textures. It complements both rustic and modern table settings.

Heat Retention: Because of its thickness, stoneware holds heat well—great for keeping meals warm at the table.

Non-Porous (When Glazed Well): Properly glazed stoneware doesn’t absorb food, odors, or liquids, making it hygienic and easy to clean.

Things to keep in mind:

Stoneware can be heavy and more prone to cracking if exposed to sudden, extreme temperature changes (like straight from the freezer to a hot oven).

Not all pieces are oven-safe—always follow manufacturer instructions.

What Type of Dinnerware Is Best for Everyday Use?

The best dinnerware for everyday use depends on your priorities: durability, ease of care, style, and heat safety. The top materials include:

Porcelain

Lightweight, non-porous, microwave- and dishwasher-safe.

Elegant yet tough—great for both daily meals and special occasions. 

Stoneware

Thick, sturdy, and resistant to chips and scratches.

Casual and stylish with a natural feel. Works well for family meals.

Tempered Glass (e.g., Corelle®)

Ultra-durable, resistant to chips and cracks.

Lightweight, space-saving, microwave- and dishwasher-safe.

Ideal for busy households or families with kids.

Melamine

Lightweight and nearly unbreakable.

Great for outdoor dining or homes with young children.

Not microwave-safe, which limits its versatility.

For most households, porcelain or tempered glass offer the best balance of practicality, safety, and style. Stoneware is an excellent everyday option if you prefer a more artisanal look and feel.

What Are Plates, Bowls, and Cups Called?

Collectively, plates, bowls, and cups are called dinnerware or tableware. More specifically:

Plates:

Dinner Plate: Used for main courses.

Salad Plate (or Side Plate): Used for salads, bread, or desserts.

Dessert Plate: Sometimes smaller than a salad plate.

Charger Plate: Decorative base plate, not used for eating.

Bowls:

Soup Bowl: Deep and wide, ideal for hot liquids.

Cereal Bowl: Smaller and shallower than a soup bowl.

Pasta Bowl: Often wide and shallow, great for saucy dishes.

Ramekin or Dessert Bowl: Small bowls for dips, sides, or desserts.

Cups:

Mug: Usually larger, with a handle, for hot drinks like coffee or tea.

Teacup: Smaller and more delicate, often paired with a saucer.

Espresso Cup: Very small, for serving espresso shots.

All these items fall under the broader category of place settings, and when grouped with utensils and glasses, they become part of a complete table setting.

Stoneware dinnerware sets are all about timeless appeal and everyday strength. With their rich textures, natural tones, and solid feel, they bring warmth and character to any table—whether you're serving a weeknight dinner or hosting a special occasion. The best stoneware sets blend beauty with durability, offering pieces that can handle daily use while still looking effortlessly elegant. Choose a set that fits your lifestyle and aesthetic, and you'll have dinnerware that feels as good as it looks, meal after meal.