Shaping your plating

When you think of setting a table, the food might be the first thing that comes to mind. But what if we told you that the shape of your plates could change the entire look and feel of your meal? It’s true—the right tableware can do more than just hold your food; it can frame it beautifully and even change how you taste it.

Imagine yourself as an artist, with your tableware as your canvas. The shape of that canvas—round, square, or something more unique—can change the way your art is perceived. We’re here to explore how the shape of a plate can influence the way you serve and enjoy your meals.

So, what shapes should you consider? And how do they impact the way you serve? Let’s take a closer look.

Round

The classic circular form naturally frames the dish to put focus on the food. They are also convenient to use, stack, store, and wash in dishwashers, making them suitable for the modern lifestyle. They will highlight the color & texture of your culinary treats as well. The symmetry of the shape draws attention to the center, making it perfect for plating a primary dish. 

Square

This shape has been in trend for a long time and offers an edgy aesthetic, ideal for modern chic dining. The sharp angle and clean lines provide a structured backdrop for creative plating. Work with the middle, leaving ample space, and try not to use the corners.

Rectangle & Oval

Best for linear presentations, the elongated shape allows for an interesting multi-ingredient arrangement in a row. You can easily create a sense of movement or flow across the plate. Oval has a similar nature but a softer, and more inviting silhouette that enhances the natural shape of the food.

Triangle

This is gaining popularity but isn't that common yet. The shape does proper justice when plating a single item, like a slice of cake or dessert. Yet it has space to play with smaller garnishings. A modern yet playful twist to serving, this is often used for tea parties, cafes, or lunch menus.

Quirky Geometrical

Get artistic with abstract and asymmetrical! Breaking away from conventions, have fun with plating in these statement pieces. We promise that each presentation will feel like a unique work of art!

Based on what you are serving, each shape has its individual features and benefits. It works towards showcasing your food quality and cooking techniques while engaging the diner’s senses.

Some quick tips to ace effective plating in your available wares:

• Keep it simple yet stylish (and easy to execute if it's your first time hosting)
• Try to compose the elements in a way that creates harmony (easy on the eye)
• Pair the flavors, colors & textures carefully (don't overdo it)
• If your plate is too angular (like a rectangle), create arcs, swirls, and swooshes with the dips and sauce to soften the appearance and give it fluidity.
• You can add layers to add height and dimension to the dish.
• Don’t overfill a plate, leave a little room so that there is no spillage. 
• Aim for the correct temperature as hot food calls for slightly pre-heated plates & cold food needs chilled plates.
• Natural & organic is aesthetically pleasing. It is alright if each guest’s plate looks slightly different.

How does plating work?

You prepare the dish, and as you present it you incorporate the freshest ingredients, cut pieces or slashes precisely and finally pull it all together with sauces, garnishes, etc.

MAIN ITEM (Primary Dish of mostly one muted color) + SUPPORTING ITEM (Like veggies for color pop) + Sauces (As a side or spilled on it) + Garnishes (in the side or sprinkled)

The size of the plate affects the perception of quantity, i.e portion size!

Oversized plates provide negative space to bring out the colors & characteristics of the food, preventing crowding and food overflowing. The larger the plate, the smaller the portion appears to the diner. Hence small bites are served on smaller plates.

Lastly, don’t forget that the most important ingredient or element is your love and personal style. Serving food is an act of compassion and beauty. It sets the stage for the good times to follow. So do it with a smile and add that touch of ‘you’. Happy Hosting!