Enhancing South African Dining with Stylish Plates and Platters
If there’s one thing I believe can instantly elevate your hosting game or even just everyday meals, it’s a well-chosen plate or platter. These items do more than simply serve food — they help tell your story at the table. From big family lunches in the Joburg sun to an intimate cheese platter night under Cape Town stars, the humble plate and platter are essential elements in any stylish South African home. Let’s explore their functionality, versatility, and how they bring beauty into our kitchens and dining spaces.
Key Takeaways
- Plates and platters enhance everyday mealtimes and special occasions alike.
- Choosing the right shape, material, and size can uplift your table aesthetics.
- South African decor trends favour earthy tones and natural finishes.
- Use statement platters as functional art for coffee tables or wall displays.
- Layering plates and serving boards can create beautiful, curated tablescapes.
- Mixing modern ceramic with rustic wood adds charm and contrast to your decor.
The Heart of Home Entertaining
Whether you’re plating up roast lamb for Sunday lunch or serving a quick cheese and biltong board, plates and platters take centre stage. We’ve come a long way from serving everything straight from the pot. Today, how you present your food matters just as much as how it tastes — and the right labelled platter or elegant plate can seal the deal.
Stylish Functionality
The beauty of plates and platters is their dual purpose: they’re practical but also decorative. One of my personal favourites is the Golden Pineapple Plate. It's bold, tropical, and hands-down a conversation starter at any get-together. Whether you're serving olives or using it as a decor tray, this plate offers personality with purpose.
In smaller dining spaces, opt for layered serving: use a round ceramic plate over a wooden platter to create height and interest. It’s a tip I picked up while styling my patio dining area — not only does it look lush, but it also feels curated and intentional.
What to Look for When Choosing Plates and Platters
1. Material Choices: Ceramic, Wood, or Glass?
Ceramic is timeless and durable — great for everyday use and a favourite in many SA homes. Wood adds warmth and an organic touch (perfect for farmhouse or coastal styles), while glass and metal scream modern luxury. For a budget-friendly and versatile combo, the Blue Bamboo Board Platter Combo is a simple way to introduce layers and function to your table without fuss.
2. Size and Shape
Choose pieces based on what you actually plan to serve. Smaller, round plates are perfect for starters or desserts. Long rectangular platters are ideal for meats, sushi spreads or antipasto. It helps to include a mix in your collection — I’ve found that having 2-3 different platter sizes really opens up creative options when setting the table.
3. Local Trends and Style
South African decor draws heavily from natural elements — think muted greens, soft greys, and earthen textures. If you want your plating to follow suit, neutral-toned ceramics like those found across our Platter Collection fit beautifully into most themes, from rustic chic to clean minimalism.
When I refreshed my kitchen in early spring, I used rustic ceramic platters alongside eucalyptus stems and textured table runners. It instantly gave the space a warm seasonal refresh without needing a full decor overhaul.
Layering for Impact
Here’s a tip I use whenever friends come over: layering isn't just for fashion — it's for food styling too! Start with a larger wooden board, add a ceramic middle layer, and finish with a small garnish dish. Not only does this look polished, but guests feel like they're being served something special, even if it’s just crackers and cheese.
More Than Just for Food
Plates and platters don’t have to stay stuck in the kitchen. Use a large platter for displaying candles on your coffee table, or hang a handpainted ceramic plate as wall art. You actually don’t need to store them away at all — let them be part of your decor. If you're stuck for ideas, we've shared more styling hacks over on our blog about Decorative Accessories.
Conclusion
There’s something quite grounding about having beautiful but useful pieces in your home. Plates and platters give the chance to combine style with hospitality, and in South Africa where food is culture, that goes a long way. From braais to bridal brunches, they deserve more credit than just being something you eat off of. So next time you're setting the table or looking to upgrade your kitchenware, think about how these pieces can double as decor and part of your story at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right size platter for entertaining?
Think about what you’re serving — for main dishes, go with a large rectangular or oval platter. For sides or smaller snacks, medium round or oval shapes work best. Mixing sizes in your collection is a good idea for flexibility.
Can I use platters as home decor?
Absolutely! Display them on open shelves, coffee tables, or even mount a few beautiful ceramic plates on the wall for a local-meets-modern gallery vibe.
What’s the best material for outdoor or patio use?
Go for bamboo, melamine, or treated wood. They're lightweight, durable, and won’t chip easily. Our platter combos make a great addition to your outdoor tableware collection.
How should I care for wooden serving boards?
After use, wipe them with a damp cloth, avoid soaking, and occasionally rub with mineral oil to prevent cracking. Never use harsh detergents.
Do I need matching plates and platters?
Not at all — mixing styles adds charm! Just keep a cohesive colour palette or consistent material (like all ceramic or all wood) to maintain visual harmony on the table.
Where can I find stylish platters in South Africa?
You can browse a range of modern, rustic and contemporary serving pieces in our curated Decor Collection. Whether you're after functionality or flair, there's something ideal for your space.
