Have you ever prepared dinner only to realize that the plate you usually use isn't quite right for soupy dishes or snacks? Although it seems simple, the shape and size of a plate can affect how food is served as well as the comfort of enjoying it.

Come on, get to know the types of plates so you can easily set the table according to your menu and occasion.

Good to know:

In general, plates can be categorized based on shape and function, such as dinner plates, side plates, deep plates, and serving plates. IKEA also uses categories like plate, deep plate, and side plate to help match the tableware with the type of dish.

Types of plates based on function

Not all dishes require the same shape of plate. Main courses need a fairly wide area, soupy dishes are more comfortably served in deep plates, while side dishes meant for sharing are more practical placed on serving plates.

Understanding these functions helps you determine the amount and types of plates truly needed at home. Here are the most commonly used types.

1. Dinner plate

A dinner plate is a relatively large, flat plate used for main courses. Its shape provides space to arrange rice, side dishes, vegetables, or other menu items in a single serving.

For everyday use, a diameter of around 25–27 cm offers a generous area for various menus. You can find choices such as the OFTAST plate 25 cm made of tempered opal glass as well as the IKEA 365+ plate 27 cm made of feldspar porcelain.

 

Both are microwave and dishwasher safe based on IKEA Indonesia product information.

2. Side plate

 

A side plate usually has a smaller diameter compared to the main dinner plate. Its function is flexible, serving bread, fruit, salad, cakes, snacks, and side dishes.

A size of around 20 cm can be a practical choice because it doesn't take up much table space. The IKEA 365+ plate 20 cm, for instance, is made of feldspar porcelain and features a simple white design that is easy to combine with other tableware.

3. Deep plate

 

Unlike flat dinner plates, a deep plate features a deeper center. This shape helps hold food with sauce or broth without liquid spilling easily over the edges.

Deep plates are suitable for pasta, curry, thick soup, porridge, to rice dishes with plenty of gravy. One option is the FÄRGKLAR deep plate 19 cm. Made of glazed stoneware, this product is microwave and dishwasher safe.

4. Serving plate

 

A serving plate is not intended for individual use, but as a food container placed in the middle of the table for sharing. Its shape can be round, oval, or elongated depending on the food being served.

For side dishes, bread, sliced fruit, snacks, or family main dishes, you can consider the IKEA 365+ serving plate 36x20 cm. This serving plate is made of feldspar porcelain and is stackable to help save storage space.

IKEA also provides a 20x11 cm size for smaller serving portions. Explore the selection of IKEA serving plates to find the right serving ware for dishes placed at the center of the table.

Read also: Choose a cutlery set that makes every meal special

How to choose the suitable types of plates?

Start with your eating habits at home. If most meals consist of rice and side dishes, flat plates measuring around 25–27 cm can serve as the foundation of your collection. Add 20 cm plates for breakfast or snacks, as well as a few deep plates if you frequently serve dishes with sauce or soup.

Material is also worth considering. OFTAST uses tempered opal glass, while the IKEA 365+ series uses feldspar porcelain, and FÄRGKLAR uses glazed stoneware. 

Each material has distinct characteristics and appearances, allowing you to choose according to your usage needs and dining table style.

For a more complete selection, you can view the IKEA tableware collection which includes plates and eating utensils in various styles. You can also look for inspiration to complete your setup on the IKEA dining room page, ranging from tables and chairs to table settings.

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Tips for combining various types of plates on the dining table

Start by choosing plates that match the menu, then combine them with other tableware so the table remains neat and comfortable to use.

  • Use main plates as a base to serve rice, side dishes, or main courses.

  • Place small plates on top of the main plate when serving bread, appetizers, or snacks.

  • Position serving plates in the center of the table so dishes can be reached by everyone.

  • Choose neutral colors or simple shapes as connecting elements between plates.

  • Add texture or color through deep plates, napkins, placemats, and glasses.

  • Avoid using too many patterns or colors to keep the table presentation balanced.

Read also: How to set plates on the dining table correctly and attractively

Complete your dining table according to your needs

By understanding the types of plates, you can choose tableware based on meals and family habits, not just appearances. Dinner plates, side plates, deep plates, and serving plates complement each other, making everyday dining and social gatherings more practical.

Discover various IKEA plates and tableware and complete your dining room needs via IKEA.co.id.

FAQ

Common types include dinner plates, side plates, deep plates, and serving plates.

Dinner plates are used individually, whereas serving plates are used to place food to be shared at the table.

Deep plates are suitable for pasta, curry, thick soup, porridge, or foods with sauce and gravy.

Plates with a diameter of around 25–27 cm are commonly used as main plates, while around 20 cm is practical for side dishes or smaller portions.

You can explore the tableware category and IKEA Indonesia serving plates page to choose shapes, sizes, and materials according to your needs.