How to Choose the Perfect Serving Platters for Entertaining?
A beautifully presented meal is just as important as the delicious flavours on the plate. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner party or a grand festive feast, the right serving platter can elevate your table setting and make every dish look irresistible. For choosing the perfect large serving platter, here’s everything you need to know about selecting the best serving platters for your next gathering.
What is a Serving Platter?
A serving platter is a flat, broad dish used to present and serve food at gatherings, enhancing both functionality and presentation. Available in various materials, sizes, and designs, serving platters help organise and display appetisers, main courses, and desserts elegantly. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or a formal dinner party, the right serving platter can elevate your table setting and make dining more enjoyable.
How to Choose the Right Size Serving Platter for Different Gatherings
The size of your platter for serving depends on the occasion and the type of food you’re presenting:
- Small gatherings & appetisers: Opt for divided serving platters to offer a variety of snacks without mixing flavours.
- Family-style dinners: A large serving platter works well for roasts, salads, and shared dishes.
- Buffet-style entertaining: Choose tiered serving trays to save space while offering an elegant display. Tiered serving dishes are also great for high-tea events or presenting smaller, bite sized options.
- Holiday feasts: A decorative serving platter with festive designs makes seasonal dishes, like ones you’d serve at Christmas, feel extra special.
Best Materials for Serving Platters: Ceramic, Wood, or Glass?
Serving platters come in a range of different materials, each offering a unique design and feel for your dining table or serving area.
- Ceramic: Elegant, durable, and ideal for hot and cold dishes. Many are oven-safe, making them a great choice for baked dishes.
- Wood: Perfect for charcuterie and cheese boards, adding a rustic touch to your table.
- Glass: A timeless option that showcases the vibrant colours of your food beautifully.
Cleaning & Maintaining Serving Platters
To keep your platters looking their best:
- Ceramic & glass: Hand wash or use the dishwasher (check manufacturer instructions for safety).
- Wood: Wipe clean with a damp cloth and condition with food-safe oil.
- Serving platter with lid: Opt for BPA-free, dishwasher-safe lids for easy cleaning.
Once the food has been enjoyed, be sure to clean off any crumbs or leftover food to avoid the need for harsh scrubbing or cleaning after the party is finished.
Serving Platter FAQ and Other Considerations
1. How to Choose a Serving Platter for Charcuterie & Cheese Boards
A dedicated charcuterie serving platter should have ample space for meats, cheeses, crackers, and fruits. Look for wooden boards or ceramic serving dishes with compartments for effortless arrangement.
2. How to Match Serving Platters with Table Settings & Themes
Your serving trays and platters should complement your dinnerware and table setting. Classic white ceramic platters pair well with any occasion, while wooden and patterned designs add a unique flair.
For event themes, tiered cake trayers can add a chic charm, especially if you’re hosting special events like a bridal or baby shower.
3. What are the Benefits of Tiered Serving Platters for Large Gatherings
For larger gatherings, tiered serving platters allow you to maximise table space while offering a dynamic display. They work wonderfully for desserts, finger foods, and high-tea setups.
4. Best Serving Platters for Outdoor Events
For alfresco dining, opt for melamine or bamboo platters, which are lightweight, durable, and shatter-resistant. If you’re hosting a BBQ, a serving platter with a lid is great for keeping food fresh and protected from outdoor elements.
5. How Do You Enhance Your Dining Presentation with Serving Platters
Presentation plays a key role in making food look more appetising. A divided serving platter with lid keeps items fresh while offering an organised look. For a stylish touch, mix and match shapes and textures—layer a wooden platter with ceramic bowls for dips, or use tiered serving platters for bite-sized treats.
6. What Are the Most Versatile Shapes for Entertaining
Serving platters in different shapes offer a unique serving experience for different foods and gatherings, whether you’re having a standing dinner party for mingling or a sit down style meal.
- Round platters: Great for serving pizzas, cakes, or communal salads.
- Rectangular platters: Ideal for sushi, grilled meats, or appetiser spreads.
- Oval platters: A stylish and practical choice for roasts and side dishes.
- Divided serving platters: Perfect for serving a variety of dips, nuts, or fruits.
The perfect serving platter brings function and style to any gathering, making your food look as good as it tastes. Whether you need a divided serving platter with lid for snacks or a large serving platter for a festive spread, Robins Kitchen has a selection to suit every occasion. Explore our range of serving and entertaining platters online now.
Back to blog
