As many of you know, I have a passion for all things Italian design. From sleek midcentury furniture to colorful Murano glass, Italian style captures la dolce vita perfectly. Today I’m excited to share my recommendations for the best Italian tableware to elevate your dining experience.
Whether you’re looking to add some character to casual family meals or want to host an elegant dinner party, quality Italian ceramics, glassware, and flatware will lend your table an authentic touch of Mediterranean flair.
Made with care and artistry, they’re built to last while bringing joy to your cooking and entertaining. Read on as I dish about my favorite plates, bowls, cups, and utensils from iconic Italian brands like Alessi, Kartell, and Sambonet. Mangia!
Where to Shop Italian Dinnerware
Italian tableware and dinnerware encompasses a wide variety of styles, but some common characteristics include:
- Patterns and designs inspired by Italian art, architecture, food, and landscapes. Popular motifs include vines, grapes, lemons, olives, etc. As well as geometric designs.
- Rich, vibrant colors like deep reds, greens, yellows, and blues. White is also very common and used for minimalist, classic looks.
- Natural materials like ceramic, stoneware, porcelain, glass. Terracotta and handmade, painted ceramics are very iconic for Italian tableware.
- Stylish, sleek shapes. Very common to see rimless plates, angular or asymmetrical bowls/platters, curved wine glasses, intricate stemware. Clean, contemporary lines blended with some traditional shapes.
- Highlights Italian food culture. Things like pasta bowls, pizza plates, olive oil cruets, espresso cups. Emphasizes enjoying Italian cuisine.
- Many collections will be themed by specific Italian regions/cities. Tuscan inspired patterns, Venetian glass pieces, etc. Italy’s culture and geography provides inspiration.
- Can range from rustic, country-style pottery to elaborate, gilded fine china for formal events. Spans casual every day to luxury.
Some iconic Italian brands known for tableware and dinnerware include Sambonet, RCR Cristalleria Italiana, Richard Ginori, and Vietri. Their patterns and collections capture the essence of Italian dining and style.
