The Tableware Handbook: Everything You Need for a Functional Kitchen

Having a kitchen with all the necessities is very important. The kitchen is the heart of the home, where we give ourselves sustenance and bring ourselves together with others. When your cupboards are filled with the necessities, the act of preparing and presenting your meal is a pleasure, not a chore. Whether you're having a formal dinner party or just a quiet breakfast on a Tuesday morning, the items you choose to set your table with play a large part in your overall experience.

Wine Glasses

A set of wine glasses is an essential item for every adult's kitchen. While it may be tempting to use a regular glass for your wine, the design of a wine glass is such that it is meant to bring out the best in your drink. The shape of the glass is designed to bring the aromas to your nose for maximum appreciation. Whether you are a fan of reds or whites, having the right glass for your drink is sure to make a difference.

When shopping for wine glasses, it is important to look for ones that are both classy and durable. While stemmed glasses are the most common type of wine glass, there is also the more modern stemless type that is gaining popularity for its convenience. Having a set of six to eight glasses at home will ensure that you are always ready to entertain your guests.

Coffee Mugs

The most personal items in our kitchens are probably our coffee mugs. They are probably the first things we reach for in the morning and the last things we use in our relaxing evening cup of tea. While ceramic mugs are always a popular choice for coffee mugs, quality glass coffee mugs are the latest rage among homeowners. They are a great way to enjoy your cup of coffee in a completely new way. There is something very gratifying in seeing the layers of your latte or the crema in your cup of espresso.

The look of glass coffee mugs is perhaps one of their most important features. They are a very modern-looking item that can blend in seamlessly with any type of decor in our kitchens. They are also very clear, so they allow us to see the beauty of our cup of coffee. This is perhaps why they are so popular among those who like to create "Instagram-worthy" coffee creations in the comfort of their own homes. In addition to this, glass coffee mugs are also very neutral in that they don't retain any flavours or odours from the last cup of coffee.

One of the most important advantages offered by glass mugs, particularly those made from borosilicate glass, is their thermal properties. The double-walled glass mugs are particularly good in this regard, as they create an insulating layer of air between the two walls. As a result, your coffee stays hot for a lot longer, while the mug itself stays cool to the touch. You can hold your boiling drink comfortably without any handles, though many mugs may have them anyway. 

For many people, this change to glass is also because of weight; these mugs tend to be lighter and more delicate to hold. Selecting glass coffee mugs is an easy way to elevate your life, adding a level of sophistication to each drink you enjoy throughout your day.

Plates

The plates are the backbone of any dining table. Any basic set includes dinner plates, side plates, and bowls. However, while selecting your plates, it is important to note that the material they are made of is very important. Bone china and porcelain plates are very strong and resistant to chips. If you are looking to buy plates for a more casual look, then you can opt for stoneware plates. They are heavier and come in a wide range of colours.

Any neutral shade, like white or cream, is always recommended while selecting plates. They are easy to replace in case they are accidentally broken. However, you can always add a dash of colour with side plates or bowls to your dining table. The plates should be stackable so that they can be easily accommodated in your kitchen cabinets. 

Cutlery

Your cutlery set is something you will use many times a day, every day, so it is worth investing in a quality cutlery set. Most cutlery today is made of stainless steel, which is popular because of its rust- and stain-resistant properties. Make sure you buy a cutlery set made of 18/10 stainless steel, as this contains a higher percentage of nickel, which gives your cutlery a brilliant shine. The weight of your cutlery is also important, as a heavier fork or spoon will feel more comfortable in your hand.

A basic place setting consists of a dinner fork, a salad fork, a dinner knife, a soup spoon, and a teaspoon. Make sure your knives have a sharp serrated edge, which will enable you to cut different foods with ease. The style of your cutlery will also have an impact on the mood you want to create with your table settings. Silver, for example, will create a classic, elegant look, while black or gold will create a trendy, contemporary look.