You’ve already perfected the art of intentionality with food and drink, choosing just the right ingredients to craft a perfect blend of taste, aroma, and texture that tells a distinct story.
But what if there was another tool that had the ability to deepen that sensory experience, evoke emotions and show guests that you’ve put extra care and attention to detail into every moment of the meal?
Tableware is an essential character in your food and drink story, influencing your guests’ perception of the meal through color, feel and pattern.
It creates a connection that is an extension of your culinary vision and brand personality.
And, of course, a beautiful plate or glass encourages guests to snap and share photos and video of their meal, giving your business an added boost of invaluable organic publicity. In an industry that can be so competitive, why not do anything you can to stand out from the pack?
The power is really in your hands – and on your plate! Here’s how to harness the psychology of tableware to elevate any presentation:
Table of Contents
Color
Science has long held that color can affect our mood, we eat and drink first with our eyes. Whether your tableware is dark or light, bright or muted, flat or metallic, these choices temper your guests’ expectations for the meal ahead in subtle ways.
For example, black dinnerware suggests romance and intimacy, while bold, saturated hues loudly draw attention to your creations and stimulate the appetite. Soft, earthen tones send an eco-conscious message, and on-trend gold flatware can add a touch of glamour to your table setting.
Most importantly, the color of your dinnerware, flatware and glassware should be thoughtfully chosen to complement food or drink and support the narrative of your creation.
Because when the food aligns with the tableware, magic can happen – improving your guests’ enjoyment and helping you score repeat customers.
Texture
We may eat first with our eyes, but tableware texture can be just as important, creating a visceral connection between us and the meal. Texture supplies visual depth that draws the eye and builds intrigue.
Texture is a storytelling shortcut: Cut glassware implies luxury, while organic textures remind us of nature. In addition, the feel of a surface affects its visual weight. Tough textures add a grounded element; sleek, glossy surfaces look light and airy.
As you select tableware, consider contrasting complex presentations with smooth, simple surfaces, and subtle dishes with matte, rough textures for a visually cohesive experience that pleases the eyes and the palate.
Weight
Another tactile element to consider is weight, which can at times be more influential than design. Imagine holding two otherwise identical dinner knives: one that’s light and one with a little more heft. Which feels more expensive? Certainly, the heavier piece implies high-quality materials, durability and quality.
On the other hand, a fragile, ultra-thin wine glass with a narrow stem is generally perceived as more luxurious than thick, bulky stemware.
But the benefits don’t just stop at looks: A thin rim actually improves the flavor of fine wines, elevating the experience even further and helping you upsell wines of all varietals.
Pattern
Pattern serves two purposes for your tabletop: to artfully frame food or drink and to foster atmosphere. Alongside color and texture, deliberately selected patterns are essential in relaying the mood you are trying to create.
Global-inspired patterns – whether they suggest a Moroccan marketplace or Southwestern sunset – transport guests to another place and time even before the first bite. Select patterns that will complement the menu.
Delicate florals and chintz patterns evoke the soft, old-fashioned elegance of grandma’s house or a tea room with comforting, familiar foods. Geometric designs add a splash of bold energy and modern minimalism that tells guests the cuisine is going to be cutting edge.
A pop of pattern can infuse intention into an otherwise basic tabletop. Consider adding just one or two patterned pieces to your whiteware for instant impact and cost-conscious plating.
Put it all together
Incorporating these concepts into your menu is the true art of foodservice. There’s always opportunity to enhance your guest’s experience and Libbey experts are ready to help you bring your unique story to life with their industry-leading expertise and service.
Connect with a sales consultant near you to start your journey or visit .
