What Is a Charger Plates
What Is a Charger Plate?
A charger plate, also known as a service plate or underplate, is a decorative and larger plate that is typically used during formal dining occasions. It is placed on the table setting before the meal begins and serves as a base for other dinnerware, such as soup bowls, salad plates, and dinner plates. Charger plates are not meant to be used for serving food; their main purpose is to enhance the overall presentation of a meal and add elegance to the table.
Charger plates come in various materials, shapes, and designs, allowing them to match different table settings and themes. They are usually larger than the average dinner plate, measuring around 12 to 14 inches in diameter. Common materials used for charger plates include glass, stainless steel, porcelain, and even woven materials like rattan or bamboo. The choice of material often depends on the desired aesthetic and the formality of the occasion.
The use of charger plates dates back to medieval times when they were used as functional plates to keep food from spilling onto the tablecloth. Over time, they evolved into decorative pieces that added sophistication to table settings. Today, charger plates are commonly used in formal events, such as weddings, banquets, and upscale restaurants, where attention to detail and presentation is paramount.
Why Use Charger Plates?
1. Enhance Table Decor: Charger plates are an excellent way to add a touch of elegance and style to your table setting. They come in various colors, designs, and textures, allowing you to customize the look and feel of your dining experience. Whether you prefer a classic and understated design or a bold and vibrant pattern, charger plates can complement your chosen theme and elevate the visual appeal of your table.
2. Protect Table Linens: Charger plates serve a practical purpose by protecting your tablecloth or placemats from spills and stains. They create a barrier between the food and the table, reducing the risk of accidental spills or messes. This can be particularly useful when serving saucy or oily dishes that may stain or damage the tablecloth.
3. Simplify Table Setting: Charger plates provide structure and organization to your table setting. They serve as a guide for where each place setting should be and act as a base for other dinnerware, such as soup bowls, salad plates, and dinner plates. establishing a designated space for each dish, charger plates help create a more organized and visually appealing table setting.
4. Create a Formal Atmosphere: Charger plates are synonymous with formal dining occasions. Their presence instantly elevates the sophistication and formality of any event. If you are hosting a special dinner party or celebrating a milestone occasion, charger plates can help set the tone and create a memorable dining experience for your guests.
FAQs about Charger Plates:
Q: Are charger plates dishwasher safe?
A: The dishwasher safety of charger plates depends on the material. While some charger plates, such as those made of glass or porcelain, are generally dishwasher safe, others, like those made of woven materials or with metallic accents, may require hand washing to maintain their integrity.
Q: Can charger plates be used with everyday dining?
A: Charger plates are commonly used for formal occasions, but there are no strict rules against using them for everyday dining. If you enjoy the elegance and aesthetic appeal of charger plates, feel free to incorporate them into your everyday table setting.
Q: How should charger plates be cleaned and stored?
A: The cleaning and storage of charger plates depend on the material. Glass or porcelain charger plates can be cleaned with mild soap and water and stored stacked or hung on plate racks. Woven charger plates should be gently wiped clean and stored in a cool, dry place to prevent mold or damage.
Q: Can charger plates be used with hot dishes?
A: Charger plates are not designed to come into direct contact with hot dishes or food. To protect the charger plate, hot dishes should be served on a separate dinner plate or bowl, which can then be placed on top of the charger plate during the meal.
In conclusion, charger plates are decorative and functional pieces that add elegance and sophistication to formal dining occasions. They enhance table decor, protect table linens, simplify table settings, and create a formal atmosphere. With their versatility in design and materials, charger plates can be customized to match any table setting and theme. Whether for special occasions or everyday use, charger plates are the perfect addition to elevate your dining experience.