9 Best Dinnerware Sets, According to Our Kitchen Lab Testing and Staff Insights
I spent over six weeks scratching, staining, microwaving, and washing these sets.
Reviewed by Nicole PapantoniouKitchen Appliances Lab Director
We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
If you’re in the market for everyday dinnerware or something a bit fancier for hosting, it’s all about finding a set that works for you. It’s important to have dishes that can withstand washing and handling without scratching or chipping, and, of course, to find a style that suits your personal taste.
Our top picks:
- Best overall: Fortessa Modern Coupe Dinnerware Set
- Best value: Gibson Home Oslo Porcelain Dinnerware Set
- Best high-end: Wedgwood Gio 16-Piece Dinnerware Set
- Best modern: Fable Base Dinnerware Set
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen & Cooking Lab, I've been testing tabletop items, such as charcuterie boards and flatware, for the past five years. With a background in product development and technical design for a home goods company, I've come to value exceptional craftsmanship in well-made pieces, including dinnerware, from entertaining sets to those designed for everyday use.
To evaluate dinnerware, I spent over six weeks scratching, staining, microwaving, and running multiple dishwasher cycles to find the best dish sets. I enlisted our staff to rate the sets' designs and provide feedback on their durability. I also had staff members and our Lab experts take sets home to add their insights on long-term use.
Best Deal
Pros
- Versatile
- Sloped rims give it an elegant look
- Durable
Cons
- Bowls are very large
White is one of the most—if not the most—popular colors for plates. The only problem is that some white dishes can look bland or too casual, which is why we love this set from Fortessa. The design is simple yet elegant, thanks to its shiny finish and slightly sloped rims. We also appreciate that they stack neatly and compactly.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN LAB TESTS: The plates showed no signs of scratching when cut with two types of steak knives. After heating, the plates were cool enough to remove from the microwave, and the marinara sauce left overnight on the plates didn't leave a stain. After 14 dishwasher cycles, they showed no signs of wear.
CONSUMER TESTING: These were a favorite among our testers and Lab pros, with many naturally gravitating toward them when set out among the rest of the dinnerware, so it's no surprise that they earned one of the highest scores for their design.
TAKE NOTE: The bowls are very large and shallow, so they may not be the best for certain foods, such as cereal.
| What's included | 4 dinner plates, 4 salad plates, 4 pasta bowls, 4 mugs |
| Material | Fortaluxe vitrified china |
| Number of settings | 4 |
| Dishwasher-safe | Yes |
| Microwave-safe | Yes |
Pros
- Large, versatile set
- Budget-friendly
- Resists scratches and stains
Cons
- Small cereal bowls
Gibson's simple porcelain set impressed us with its quality and style. In addition to being durable, this set comes with 16 pieces for under $60. You'll get a variety of dishes, including dinner plates, dessert plates, dinner bowls, and cereal bowls, so you'll have just about every piece you'll need. They can be used in the microwave and cleaned in the dishwasher.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN LAB TESTS: In our tests, it resisted scratches and stains. After microwaving the plate for two minutes, it wasn't too hot to the touch, and the set stood up to multiple dishwasher washes.
CONSUMER TESTING: This set earned one of the top scores for design with its plain yet updated look. One of our staff members has owned these for a few years and still loves them.
TAKE NOTE: Our only complaint is the cereal bowls' smaller size, but overall, we loved the set's versatility.
| What's included | 4 dinner plates, 4 dessert plates, 4 dinner bowls, 4 cereal bowls |
| Material | Porcelain |
| Number of settings | 6 |
| Dishwasher-safe | Yes |
| Microwave-safe | Yes |
Pros
- Pieces also sold separately for easy replacement
- Made of bone china
- Durable
Cons
- Pricey
- Larger dinner plate may not fit in smaller dishwashers
Wedgwood is known for it's high-end dishware and has been making ceramics for over 260 years. Made of bone china, the set is expensive, but the dishes are light, thin, and neatly stackable. Although they look delicate, they are durable enough to withstand the rigor of daily use—you don't have to set them aside to use only for special occasions.
The dishes look simple at first glance, but I love the subtle textural design that adds a unique look to white dishes without being overwhelming. It's part of a collection that includes cups, bowls, and plates, which can also be bought separately—perfect if you accidentally break a piece or want to add on.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN LAB TESTS: This dinnerware set had top scores for staining, scratching, microwaving, and dishwashing.
CONSUMER TESTING: The Gio set was rated above average for its design, with one staff tester commenting they liked the simple yet elegant look.
TAKE NOTE: One drawback our experts noticed while testing is that the 11.1-inch dinner plate is larger than most and may not fit well in smaller dishwashers.
| What's included | 4 dinner plates, 4 salad plates, 4 bowls, 4 mugs |
| Material | Bone china |
| Number of settings | 4 |
| Dishwasher-safe | Yes |
| Microwave-safe | Yes |
Pros
- Minimalist design
- Durable
- Smooth, matte feel
Cons
- Cutting too aggressively may lead to scratches
Fable combined timeless stoneware with a minimal aesthetic to produce this earthy yet modern pick that works equally well for a casual or a more elevated table. The set is made from stoneware, an extra-dense material and one of the most durable types of ceramic, so you won’t have to treat them too delicately.
I own these bowls at home and appreciate that the bottoms of the dinnerware aren’t glazed and have a rough texture, making them easier to hold and less likely to slip out of my hand. The dinnerware is available in seven muted colors and one speckled pattern.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN LAB TESTS: The dishes showed no signs of scratching after cutting with steak knives in our tests, and the marinara sauce washed cleanly off the plate after sitting overnight. After two minutes in the microwave, the plate was cool enough to touch and remove with our bare hands.
CONSUMER TESTING: The smooth, matte feel earned an above-average score, and one of our consumer testers commented on how much they liked this set because they stacked neatly and compactly to fit in a cabinet. The design is minimal, but the speckled pattern and imperfect edge add visual interest. They also said they love the pasta bowl and use it often for various foods.
TAKE NOTE: One of our consumer testers mentioned that her husband tends to cut steaks aggressively on these plates, which led to some scratching. I also noticed scratching in the bowls I owned for a few years, but I whisk eggs with a fork in them, so I recommend avoiding that, especially in matte stoneware, which is more prone to scratching. If the matte finish isn't for you, they are also available in a glossy option.
| What's included | 4 dinner plates, 4 salad plates, 4 large pasta bowls, 4 small breakfast bowls |
| Material | Stoneware |
| Number of settings | 4 |
| Dishwasher-safe | Yes |
| Microwave-safe | Yes |
Pros
- Durable and scratch-resistant
- Budget-friendly
- Works well indoors and outdoors
Cons
- Some may find it feels too light
You'll want to reach for this set for just about any meal—it's chip-resistant and microwave- and dishwasher-safe at an amazing price. It can even be used as outdoor tableware. Don't let the ultra-lightweight frame fool you into thinking it's not sturdy; it's highly durable, which is how it earned its reputation for long-lasting dishware. Corelle's secret is its patented Vitrelle material, a type of laminated glass. The dish sets are also available in a ton of patterns.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN LAB TESTS: Corelle consistently tests well, and this round of testing was no exception, earning top performance scores.
CONSUMER TESTING: These earned an average score regarding the design. However, the set is extremely durable and has held up well over the years we've used it in our Lab. I owned a set of Corelle for years, and even with my rough handling, they never chipped or broke. It's one of my favorite sets for its lightweight design.
TAKE NOTE: Some may find these dishes too thin, but they're a great alternative for families who want durable dinnerware but prefer not to use plastic.
| What's included | 6 dinner plates, 6 salad plates, 6 bowls |
| Material | Vitrelle (laminated glass) |
| Number of settings | 6 |
| Dishwasher-safe | Yes |
| Microwave-safe | Yes |
Pros
- Available in 14 bright colors
- Lightweight
- Fiesta has a 5-year chip replacement warranty
Cons
- Saturated colors may not complement food
The highly popular Fiesta brand is known for its bright dinnerware in fun colors such as Lapis, Poppy, Sunflower, and 11 other vivid hues, which will make a statement on your table. If you prefer setting your table with multiple colors instead of just sticking to one, or if you want to expand your collection or decorate for the holidays, the brand also offers three-piece sets in various colors.
This set is made of porcelain and is more affordable than bone china, which has similar durability. The pieces are dishwasher-, microwave-, and oven-safe up to 350°F.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN LAB TESTS: We haven't recently tested these dishes in our Lab, but one of our experts has owned them and found the dishes sturdy and thick. The brand claims the dishes are chip-resistant, and Fiesta provides a five-year chip-replacement warranty.
TAKE NOTE: The saturated colors may not complement food as well as white or more muted plates.
| What's included | 1 dinner plate, 1 salad plate, 1 bowl |
| Material | Porcelain |
| Number of place settings | 4 |
| Dishwasher-safe | Yes |
| Microwave-safe | Yes |
Pros
- Gorgeous design with contrast trim
- Thick and durable
- Options for deep or shallow bowls
Cons
- Expensive
Ceramic dinnerware is all the rage, but East Fork stands out with its stunning speckled matte base and contrasting rims. The dinnerware is thick and hefty, making it feel durable. Multiple staff members love the array of earthy colors, such as Blue Ridge, Eggshell, and Black Mountain, as well as seasonal colors. We love the shallow bowl set, but East Fork also has a five-piece set with deeper bowls and a 7-piece set with mugs.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN LAB TESTS: Although we haven't formally tested this set yet, it's a favorite of a few of our staff for its beautiful yet durable design.
CONSUMER TESTING: One of our pros has owned this set for under a year and raves about it. The dishes are thick and durable and haven't chipped. They showed some light scratching, which is common in stoneware, but it was not very noticeable. Our staff member loves the everyday bowl and uses it constantly for salads and grain bowls.
TAKE NOTE: Each set includes one place setting, so multiple settings can be pricey.
| What's included | 1 breakfast bowl, 1 everyday bowl, 1 cake plate, 1 side plate, 1 dinner plate |
| Material | Ceramic |
| Number of settings | 1 |
| Dishwasher-safe | Yes |
| Microwave-safe | Yes |
Pros
- Dinnerware stacks neatly
- Resists stains
- Looked good after 14 dishwasher cycles
Cons
- Plates stack higher than traditional plates
The Our Place Classic Stacking Set was a favorite with our experts and consumer panel. Our pros appreciate how this dinnerware set stacks neatly and looks organized when displayed on open shelving in your kitchen.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN LAB TESTS: Aside from its good looks, the dinnerware set aced our Lab tests. It resisted cuts from steak knives and stains from marinara sauce, and it still looked as good as new after 14 dishwasher cycles, with no signs of chipping.
CONSUMER TESTING: Out of all the sets we tested, this was a top pick with our consumer panel and earned the highest score in attractiveness. Many people commented on how much they loved the style, particularly how the off-white color contrasted with the tan rims. If this colorway isn't for you, the set is also available in Terracotta, Spice, and Char.
TAKE NOTE: The plates and bowls stack higher since they don't nest as deeply as other dinnerware sets. One of our long-term consumer testers noted that this set eventually showed signs of scratching after months of use, though we found this happened with other stoneware sets as well. The items aren’t sold as complete dinnerware sets, but as separate sets of the same piece (for example, plates or bowls).
| What's included | Pieces are sold as item sets |
| Material | Ceramic stoneware |
| Number of settings | 4 |
| Dishwasher-safe | Yes |
| Microwave-safe | Yes |
Pros
- Gold rims did not wear off in dishwasher testing
- Microwave-safe even with the gold rim
- Resists scratches and staining
Cons
- Design may not be for everyone
This Lenox dinnerware set stands out with its organic, wavy shape, and the gold rims give it an understated yet elegant look that will impress your guests. Surprisingly, even with the gold trim, the set is microwave-safe. After two minutes in the microwave, the plate wasn’t too hot to pick up. We also liked that cutting on these plates felt very smooth.
I've owned these plates for just under a year and use them for brunches and gatherings; they've held up well. I'm more careful when stacking these, so they don't chip, since the wavy shape doesn't nest well.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN LAB TESTS: Our experts were impressed that even after 14 cycles in the dishwasher, none of the gold rims showed any signs of wear. The plates stood up to steak knives and didn’t show any scratches after cutting on them. Marinara sauce didn’t stand a chance either; every trace of it washed off easily after sitting overnight.
CONSUMER TESTING: Our consumer tester panel was split on whether they liked how these looked, so this set may not be for everyone. But those who liked the design gave it top scores.
TAKE NOTE: The organic wavy shape makes the plates and bowls slightly harder to stack since they don't nest evenly.
| What's included | 4 dinner plates, 4 dessert plates, 4 bowls |
| Material | Porcelain |
| Number of settings | 4 |
| Microwave-safe | Yes |
| Dishwasher-safe | Yes |
How we test dinnerware sets
We researched widely available dinnerware sets and selected top candidates based on materials, construction, and category expertise from the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen & Cooking Lab. Our pros in the Lab visit numerous trade shows each year and connect with brands to learn about the latest and greatest in tableware.
In the Kitchen Lab, our experts evaluated ease-of-use factors like microwave and dishwasher safety, resistance to stains and scratches, and appearance after repeated wash cycles. Separately, we sent sets home with staff testers for real-world, long-term feedback.
✔️ Microwave test: In the Lab, we tested microwave performance by heating chicken parmesan, spaghetti, and tomato sauce on each plate. We microwaved the food for two minutes and immediately afterward noted how hot each plate felt and whether it was too hot to touch right away.
✔️ Scratch resistance test: Staff testers assessed scratch resistance by cutting chicken parmesan and spaghetti on each plate using both serrated and straight-edge steak knives. After scraping off the food and washing the plates, we scored each one based on the extent of visible scratching.
✔️ Stain test: In the Lab, we assessed staining using the same plates of food from our scratch test. We scrape off the plates, leaving sauce and small bits behind to sit overnight. After sitting for at least 12 hours, we wash each plate in the dishwasher and check for any stains left behind. We then run each plate through the dishwasher 13 more times to check for lingering stains or wear over time.
✔️ Style and specs tests: A group of Good Housekeeping staff from various teams shared feedback on the look and feel of each set. We also consider specs like materials, price, style, and what's included in a set. We note the number of place settings or if pieces are sold individually, so you can create your own set or replace broken items.
✔️ Long-term testing: Finally, we send dinnerware sets home with staff testers to use and provide feedback on the long-term durability, any issues they notice, and if they still like the set.
In general, we like versatile sets that include at least a large dinner plate, a small salad plate, and a bowl for soups, cereal, or pasta.
What to look for when shopping for the best dinnerware sets
✔️ Number of settings: If you live alone or with just one person, a dinnerware set with four to six settings might make sense, so you can have extras for visitors. Or, look for single sets or open-stock dinnerware to mix and match exactly what you want. Larger households should consider six- or eight-serve sets in case something breaks or chips, or sets that offer replacements for damaged pieces.
✔️ Type of dishes included: The most comprehensive dinnerware sets include two types of plates, two types of bowls, and a mug. If you need to expand your collection, opt for sets that include fewer pieces—and just the ones you need.
✔️ Dish shape: The plate's shape can affect its functionality, such as how it stacks and how easy it is to carry.
- Plates with wide, flat rims provide a large surface to grab, making them easy to carry, but the trade-off is that there's less space on the plate for food.
- Dishes with straight-walled rims provide ample space to maneuver and cut food. These also stack neatly in a single column, so they look organized on an open shelf. On the other hand, these types of plates tend to stack taller, so you may be unable to stack multiple items, such as plates and bowls, on top of each other in a shorter cabinet. We also noticed that dishes with higher rims were a tighter squeeze in the dishwasher's prongs, and sometimes the rims got in the way of other dishes that weren't shaped the same way.
- Sloped rim dinnerware stacks neatly and compactly, making it easy to store. The sloped sides are also a good compromise between wide, flat rims and straight-walled rims, since they can provide a place to grab the plate or hold more food.
- Low bowls or "blates" are a cross between a bowl and a plate. They have a wide, shallow bottom with raised sides that are typically taller than a plate but shorter than a deep bowl. These are versatile enough to use as plates or bowls. Many of our staff members commented on how they love low bowls and use them over their other dinnerware because they're so versatile, especially for meals where everything is together in one bowl, like a poke or Buddha bowl.
✔️ Dish size: Remember that small plates are easy to carry and store in tight spaces, but hold less food. Large plates are great for loading a plate with food, but may not fit well in smaller dishwashers.
✔️ Care instructions: Be sure to read the fine print—not all dinnerware sets are microwave- and dishwasher-safe. Some may include metallic banding that can't go in the microwave, while others can be made from a delicate material that can chip in the dishwasher.
✔️ Durability: If you're cooking for kids or plan to take your dinnerware outside, you may want to consider lightweight, durable materials such as laminated glass or melamine. If you'd prefer a set that can be used daily (with caution) and for more formal occasions, opt for bone china, porcelain, or stoneware.
What's the best dinnerware material?
✔️ Bone china is formed when bone ash is added to porcelain. It creates a delicate, slightly translucent, and perfectly crafted material that usually has a milky-white, luminous glaze, making it a great choice for refined formal dinnerware. Bone china is lightweight and thin but is considered the most durable ceramic dinnerware. It is also the most expensive material. Not all bone china is dishwasher- and microwave-safe, so check the care instructions before you buy.
✔️ Porcelain, also referred to as china, is the most ubiquitous ceramic dinnerware. It is less expensive than bone china, and with the right balance of price, durability, and weight, it's great for daily use and formal dinner parties. It has a glazed, nonporous surface that makes it dishwasher-safe, microwavable, and sometimes even oven-safe.
✔️ Stoneware is a type of ceramic popular for its rustic, earthy aesthetic. It is often speckled off-white or ivory (rather than pure or bright white) and comes in muted colors. Stoneware is heavy, thick, and durable. The more unique or handmade pieces may not stack uniformly for storage. In our tests, we noticed that stoneware was more prone to showing scratches.
✔️ Laminated glass (also called Vitrelle) is an incredibly durable material proprietary to the Corelle brand. In our tests, we found it is resistant to breaking, chipping, scratching, and staining. It will shatter if dropped on a hard surface, but it's still a versatile choice for indoor and outdoor dining.
What kind of dinnerware is most durable?
Certain materials tend to hold up better than others if you're looking for a long-lasting set that can withstand the wear and tear of daily breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. Laminated glass (the material Corelle uses) is quite durable and will last a long time—it also performed well in our scratch tests. Stoneware is known to be durable, but it can be heavy and prone to chipping or scratching. Bone china is also well-regarded for durability, but its high price may make it unsuitable for everyday use.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Jamie Kim Ueda is a consumer products expert with over 17 years of experience in product development and manufacturing. She has tested and written about many tabletop items, including martini glasses, flatware, and charcuterie boards. She helped develop the testing methodology for this story and tested the products. She has a passion for good dinnerware that's functional and looks great.
Nicole Papantoniou reviewed this story and helped Ueda develop the testing methodology. As the director of the Good Housekeeping Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, she oversees all of Good Housekeeping's content and testing related to kitchen and cooking gear. She's been testing kitchen appliances professionally since 2013.
Reviews Analyst Eva Bleyer tests a wide range of kitchen gadgets and food-related items. She contributed her knowledge about top materials, the best brands, and the hottest dinnerware trends.
Nicole (she/her) is the senior director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen & Cooking Lab. She oversees all content and testing related to kitchen products, food, and recipes. She has worked at GH since 2019, and is a trained cook, published recipe developer, and seasoned product tester with nearly 15 years of experience. She has worked in test kitchens for national magazines and kitchen appliances brands, where she also helped develop products for the home cook. She earned a degree in journalism from SUNY New Paltz, graduated with a Grand Diplome in Classic Culinary Arts from the French Culinary Institute, and studied culinary nutrition at the Natural Gourmet Institute (both now part of the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City.)
Is It Safe to Drink From an Old Insulated Tumbler?
15 Colorful Glassware Sets That Look Vintage
The Best Flatware Sets
A Look at Cynthia Rowley's New Pottery Barn Line
![jennifer garner at peacocks the five star weekend premiere held at the hammer museum on july 08, 2026 in los angeles, california photo by christopher polkdeadline via getty images](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/e417e56d-f9fc-4b35-9e34-5853ed84cf23.jpeg?crop=0.666727075027xw:1xh;center,top&resize=360:* "Peacock's "The Five Star Weekend" Premiere")
