6 Best Outdoor Tableware – Elevate Your Outdoor Dining Experience

Outdoor dining is the perfect summer pastime as the warm breeze beckons and the sun shines brightly. Whether it’s cosy alfresco dining in your backyard, a picnic in the park, or a camping adventure, indulging in the joy of outdoor dining is easier with the right equipment. Since a new generation of durable and aesthetically pleasing tableware is easily available at affordable prices, it is very easy to elevate your dining experience.

outdoor tableware

The best outdoor dinnerware combines functionality, durability, design, and is easy to clean. Forget about disposable plates, bowls and dishes which are not cost effective or environmentally friendly. Nowadays, outdoor dinnerware is crafted to withstand the challenges of alfresco dining without sacrificing elegance or convenience, from unbreakable plates and bowls to sturdy glasses and utensils.

List of best outdoor tableware

Things to consider before buying 

Material

Modern advances in material technology have paved the way for innovative alternatives to delicate china or glassware. From sturdy melamine and BPA-free plastics to bamboo and stainless steel, outdoor tableware is designed to be shatterproof, resists scratches, and durable. Melamine and bamboo are light to carry and eco-friendly alternatives to disposable items.

Functionality

Many outdoor enthusiasts value the convenience of stackable and lightweight sets that are easy to carry, store, and clean. Spill-resistant cups and bowls prevent accidental spills and leaks, especially when dining on uneven surfaces, keeping your outdoor setting pristine, while utensils with ergonomic designs and non-slip grips add to a comfortable dining experience.

Style and design

From vibrant and colourful patterns to minimalist designs and different shapes, there’s a vast array of options to suit various tastes and aesthetics. Rustic charm, a modern flair, or a playful touch, outdoor dining sets can add a touch of personality and flair to your next outdoor eating experience.

Maintenance

It is not always easy but try to clean the tableware right after use to prevent stains and buildup by rinsing off any food particles or debris. Never use harsh chemicals  or bleach but use warm water and mild dish soap to hand wash gently. Although the ‘new’ outdoor tableware is durable and resistant, we recommend to treat it gently and to avoid stacking heavy items on top.

Overview of best outdoor tableware

Most popular – Amazon Basics 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set

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This break-resistant 100% melamine dinnerware set is available in 11 different classic designs. Perfect for outdoor use in an RV or camper, but equally suitable for frequent indoor use. Be aware that it is dishwasher safe only on the top rack but not for use in a microwave.

This 12-piece set serves for 4 and includes 4 dinner plates, 4 salad plates, and 4 bowls and comes with a 1-year limited warranty.

Read also: Best gas barbecues

Best wheat straw – Sweven Wheat Straw Dinnerware Sets

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Another reusable set that is convenient for indoor and outdoor dining. This lightweight set is made with natural organic wheat straw and is eco friendly while being breakfree and is suitable to use in the microwave, freezer as well as the dishwasher. This set is available for 4 or 8 persons and has the option with or without cutlery.

Read also: Ideas for an easy picnic

Best bamboo – MORGIANA 8PCS Bamboo Dinnerware Set, Reusable Tableware

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We like that this Morgiana bamboo dinnerware set is made of a high proportion of renewable resources including organic bamboo fibres, corn starch, and wood fibres. It includes 2 dinner plates, 2 salad plates, 2 soup bowls, and 2 drink cups. All are made to use in a dishwasher but not suitable for the oven. At Morgiana they only want happy customers and have a 45 day refund or replacement policy, but please note that we didn’t test this service.

Read also: Turn your garden into an alfresco dining experience

Best plastic – Shopwithgreen Plastic, Microwave and Dishwasher Safe, Unbreakable, Lightweight Reusable Dinnerware Set

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This plastic dinnerware set is unbreakable and lightweight while sturdy and durable. Temperature resists to up to 120 ℃ (248°F) which means it’s usable in the microwave. Besides, it’s dishwasher safe but also easy to clean with hot water and soap. This set for 6 persons consists of 36 pieces dinner plates, dessert plates, cereal bowls, mugs, spoons, and forks. You can choose for an all black set or one that comes with a mixture of 4 beautiful colours. 

Read also: How to ghost an unforgettable BBQ

Best melamine – Certified International Lemon Zest Melamine 11″ Dinner Plates, Set of 6, Multicolor

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This set is made of only 6 dinner plates made of 100% durable melamine, but when it comes to reviews from Amazon customers it has an almost perfect score! These are dishwasher safe but not for use in the microwave. The design is beautiful which makes it a great gift and it can be used for casual outdoor or indoor dining.

Best budget – 350 Piece MCIRCO Gold Dinnerware Set

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This is part of a disposable upscale dinnerware set. It scores best for budget and is suitable for use when catering for a large group of people (up to 50). The entire set is suitable for 50 persons and made of plastic, but it is easy to make your party stylish due to the gold decoration. Gold rimmed dinner plates and cups with gold coloured cutlery as well as  linen like gold paper napkins are part of the set and ideal for weddings, birthday parties, graduations, festivals and more! Also available with a silver accent. Although this is a disposable set, we found the plates and cups durable enough to be washed and reused meaning it is possible to be eco-friendly on a budget! 

Round-up of bbq information

Equipment:
Gas barbecue reviews
Electric indoor grill reviews
BBQ utensils and accessories
Grill pan reviews
Outdoor dinnerware

Barbecuing and grilling information:
How to host a bbq in 6 steps
7 Steps to grilling on a gas barbecue
Setting up your outdoor kitchen area
BBQ vs grilling vs smoking

Recipes:
Grilled watermelon with feta cheese
Asian chicken skewers on the grill
Marinated monkfish kebabs on the grill
Grilled marinated lamb with wine and peppercorns
Grilled pork cheeks with white peaches
Mediterranean lamb chops on the grill
Grilled prawns in green herb marinade
Chinese pork ribs on the barbecue
Potato salad is the perfect barbecue sidedish

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