Top 10 Best Thanksgiving Dinnerware, Our Picks

Our pick: Certified International Pine Forest 10.5'' Dinner Plates, Large, Multicolor, Set of 4

I tested this Pine Forest ceramic dinner plate set during fall family dinners and found it brings a warm, woodland feel to the table. Each plate’s hand-painted forest animal design adds character without feeling kitschy, and the vibrant colors really make a cozy autumn spread pop.

Pros
Charming hand-painted woodland designs
Durable ceramic with a protective glaze
Microwave and dishwasher safe
Perfect for fall and rustic-themed occasions

Cons
Design may feel too seasonal for year-round use
This set is ideal if you love rustic décor or want to add a special touch to holiday and cabin meals. Sturdy enough for daily use but unique enough for festive gatherings, it’s a beautiful blend of function and woodland charm.

Also great: Stone Lain Lauren Stoneware

I tested the Lauren speckled green stoneware dinnerware set over several weekday dinners and casual weekend lunches. Its handcrafted look and earthy color instantly add a cozy vibe to any meal, whether it’s a quick lunch or a hearty family dinner.

Pros
Warm, rustic speckled design
Thick, durable stoneware build
Full range of plates and bowls for every course
Microwave and dishwasher safe

Cons
Heavier than typical porcelain
If you enjoy a relaxed yet refined table setting, this stoneware set is a solid pick. It’s sturdy enough for everyday meals and charming enough to elevate casual gatherings with handcrafted character.

Also great: Pfaltzgraff Autumn Berry 16 Piece Dinnerware Set

I spent a week using this Filigree-inspired stoneware dinnerware set for everything from morning coffee to a casual dinner party. The beautiful pattern feels timeless yet flexible enough to mix with other pieces for a layered table.

Pros
Classic pattern that mixes well
Durable stoneware construction
Good set variety with mugs included
Microwave and dishwasher safe

Cons
Stoneware is heavier than porcelain
If you want a versatile set that works for everyday meals and more formal gatherings, this stoneware dinnerware is a great choice. It’s practical, pretty, and easy to maintain—perfect for elevating your table without extra fuss.

Source: Amazon

The best foods for Thanksgiving really come down to comforting classics that bring people together. In the U.S., a traditional Thanksgiving meal usually includes:

• Roast turkey — the star of the show, often seasoned with herbs and served with gravy.

• Stuffing (or dressing) — a flavorful bread-based mix with herbs, vegetables, or sausage.

• Mashed potatoes — creamy and smooth, topped with butter or gravy.

• Cranberry sauce — tart and sweet, the perfect balance for rich dishes.

• Green bean casserole, sweet potatoes, or roasted veggies — hearty sides that add color to the table.

• Pumpkin pie or pecan pie — the classic sweet ending.

Many families also add regional or cultural favorites, so the “best” Thanksgiving food is the one that makes your family happy and full!

Which side does the napkin fold go on?

When setting a formal or casual dinner table, the napkin typically goes on the left side of the plate, next to the forks. If you want a simple, polished look, you can also place the napkin directly on the dinner plate — sometimes folded neatly or held with a napkin ring.

Basic rule:

• Forks on the left

• Knives and spoons on the right

• Napkin on the left or on the plate

What is the purpose of dinnerware?

Dinnerware — your plates, bowls, and serving dishes — serves both practical and aesthetic purposes:

• Function: It holds, presents, and serves food safely and conveniently. Good dinnerware is made from food-safe materials that don’t react with food or absorb flavors.

• Presentation: It makes meals feel more enjoyable and complete. A nice dinner plate can elevate even simple home-cooked meals and create a sense of occasion.

• Hygiene: Non-porous dinnerware helps keep food safe and clean by resisting stains and bacteria buildup.

Simply put, dinnerware brings your food to the table in a way that’s practical, safe, and pleasing to the eye.

What is best for dinnerware?

The “best” dinnerware depends on your lifestyle and how you use it. Popular, reliable choices include:

• Porcelain: Elegant but tough enough for daily meals and formal dinners.

• Stoneware: Heavier and more casual — good for cozy, everyday use.

• Tempered glass: Chip-resistant and lightweight — brands like Corelle are loved for daily family meals.

• Bone china: Lightweight, refined, and surprisingly durable — great if you want a touch of luxury for everyday or special occasions.

• Melamine: Best for kids or outdoor use — very durable but not microwave-safe.

Always choose dinnerware that’s food-safe, lead-free, dishwasher-safe, and fits your routine — that’s what makes it truly “the best.”

At the end of the day, the best Thanksgiving dinnerware is all about bringing warmth, style, and a touch of celebration to your holiday table. Whether you love classic white plates that let the food shine or festive patterns with autumn colors and harvest themes, the right dinnerware makes your gathering feel extra special. Brands like Lenox, Pfaltzgraff, Mikasa, and Noritake are favorites for good reason — they offer elegant, durable pieces you’ll be proud to use year after year. Choose a set that feels timeless, holds up to a big feast, and makes family and friends feel welcome — because that’s what Thanksgiving is all about.