Best Dinnerware Sets of 2021

Picking out dishes can sometimes be daunting – there are just so many choices in color, shape, size, material, and so forth. If you’re looking to add some fancier pieces to your cupboards, a set might not be your best bet (you should consider picking up individual pieces). But if you want to have matching dishes that include plates, bowls, sometimes more, a dinnerware set is the way to go.

Plain white is probably the most popular option for everyday ware. It’s usually inexpensive but looks classy. However, there are plenty of colored or patterned sets that look great and perform just as well, too.

We took a look at some of the best and least expensive sets out there to help you narrow down your options. Our criteria included cost, durability, size options, and customer reviews. Here’s what we came up with.

Best White Dinnerware

Corelle Livingware

Corelle is a respected name in dinnerware, and this is a great set of sturdy white dishes that won’t scratch and chip. There are different set options (16, 18, or 20 piece) and some additional color options if you decide against plain white. They are priced well and built to last. This Corelle set is the perfect addition to your kitchen for everyday ware with no fuss.

Want a budget white set? We recommend Amazon Basics!

Best Patterned White Dinnerware

Pfaltzgraff Sylvia 32 Piece Dinnerware Set

If you’re looking for a slight upgrade from plain white dishes, a patterned set is a great way to elevate the look. This 32 piece set from Pfaltzgraff is service for 8, and the set is gorgeous and durable porcelain. The dishes are both microwave and dishwasher safe and they won’t scratch from stainless cutlery. Despite their high quality (and the number of pieces), this set is still highly affordable and will last a long time.

Best Antique White Dinnerware

Mikasa Antique White Dinnerware Set

Looking for an upgrade in white dinnerware? Mikasa is one of the best known, highest quality brands (that are still in budget), and this antique white set is lovely and long-lasting. We like this set as an elegant update to everyday white dinnerware. With available options like 4 piece, 16 piece, or a 40 piece service for 8, there are many ways you can bring this lovely set to your dining room.

Best Square Dinnerware

Gibson Soho Lounge 16-Piece Square Reactive Glaze Dinnerware Set
If round plates aren’t your thing, the Gibson Soho set is a lovely way to be square. With several color options like red, blue, taupe, purple, and more, you can add color to your table with these durable stoneware dishes. These are highly affordable (under $50!) and available as a service for 4. Keep in mind stoneware can scratch a little and won’t stack perfectly.

Other Great Options

Colorful

For a super affordable and super colorful addition to your kitchen, this Gibson 12-piece set (under $30!) is charming and vibrant. This is a great set if you want something for indoor and outdoor use, or if you just want to have some fun with your food. They are break- and chip-resistant and dishwasher safe.

Another Corelle set that is built to be durable and scratch resistant is this square 16-piece set (this pattern is called “Happy Days”). Corelle’s 3 year warranty against breaking or chipping and their fun and functional designs make this set worth checking out if you don’t want plain white.

We simply adore this Euro Ceramica Zanzibar 16-piece set. If you want to add vibrant colors and patterns to your dining table, this is a wonderful set to consider. The patterns are incredible, and they are dishwasher and microwave safe.

Best Holiday Dinnerware Set

Lenox Holiday 12-Piece Dinnerware Set

Lenox makes our favorite holiday dishes, hands down. However, their sets can be very expensive. The price is justified: made of bone china, accented with 24 karat gold, made in the USA, lifetime warranty, etc. If you are looking to get a holiday dinnerware set that will be passed down to the next generation, we suggest Lenox. This particular set is lovely and simple but still has 12 pieces, service for 4 (many sets come in service for one).

Novelty Dinnerware Sets

Looking for some eclectic or whimsical prints to jazz up your kitchen? Here are a few of our favorite novelty dinnerware sets.

222 Fifth Peacock Garden 16 Piece Set

This gorgeous boasts lovely colors and an elegant design. Sturdy enough for every day but classy enough for even the fanciest guests.

HiEnd Accents Bear Lodge 16-Piece Dinnerware Set

If rustic style is more your thing, or if you’re outfitting a cabin kitchen, this ceramic set is a great way to bring the outdoors inside.

Red Vanilla 16-Piece Panache Rogue Dinner Set

For a classic design with just a touch of whimsy, this gorgeous complementary set is safe for cutlery, dishwasher, and the microwave. The red is vibrant and the design is eye-catching.

Cuisinart Stoneware Analia Collection 16-Piece Dinnerware Set

This ceramic stoneware set has just a hint of animal print to glam up your dinner table.