When it comes to selecting the right dinnerware for your business, whether it’s a restaurant, hotel, or corporate dining facility, the material plays a critical role in both functionality and style. Steelite, a leader in the dinnerware industry, offers a range of high-quality materials—vitrified china, stoneware, porcelain, and bone china—that are known for their durability, aesthetic appeal, and ability to meet the demands of commercial environments.
In this guide, we’ll explore each of these materials, comparing their key differences to help you make an informed decision for selecting your ideal dinnerware for your foodservice operations.
Steelite Dinnerware Materials
What is Vitrified China?
- Durability
The term "vitrified" refers to the glassy, non-porous finish of the ceramic, resulting in a material with extremely low porosity. This low porosity is a key factor in ensuring food hygiene, making Vitrified china an ideal choice for high-standards environments where cleanliness is essential. Vitrified china is resistant to chipping, scratching, and thermal shock, which makes it a top choice for busy commercial settings. - Style
Vitrified china offers a sleek, smooth finish that enhances its overall elegance. It comes in a variety of colors, shapes, and designs, offering versatility that fits both casual and fine dining experiences. - Ideal Use
Perfect for busy restaurants, hotels, or catering services, vitrified china is designed to withstand heavy usage. Its durability also makes it an excellent choice for outdoor events or establishments that need a sturdy, reliable dinnerware option. All Steelite Distinction and Performance items are fully vitrified, ensuring they meet the highest standards of strength and hygiene.
What is Porcelain?
- Durability
Porcelain is one of the most durable materials available for dinnerware. Fired at higher temperatures than most ceramics, porcelain is incredibly strong, resistant to cracking, and can withstand high heat. Despite its impressive durability, porcelain is generally lighter than stoneware or vitrified china. - Style
Known for its delicate, refined appearance, porcelain offers a smooth, glossy finish that is both elegant and timeless. It’s available in a variety of shapes and is often chosen for fine dining or upscale restaurant settings due to its sophisticated look. - Ideal Use
Porcelain is perfect for upscale restaurants, fine dining establishments, and high-end hotels where presentation is as important as the food itself. It’s also a top choice for formal events like weddings, banquets, or corporate gatherings where style and durability are essential. Porcelain’s elegant design makes it a standout option for high-end settings.
What is Stoneware?
- Durability
Stoneware is dense and durable, often thicker and heavier than other dinnerware materials. It’s excellent at retaining heat, keeping your dishes warm longer, and is highly resistant to thermal shock. - Style
Stoneware offers a rustic, earthy aesthetic with a slightly textured finish. Its unique glazes and handcrafted look provide a casual yet charming vibe that fits both traditional and modern settings. - Ideal Use
Stoneware is ideal for restaurants, cafes, and casual dining establishments that want to create a cozy, homely atmosphere. It’s especially great for serving comfort foods or showcasing hearty, well-crafted meals. Its robust nature also makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor dining.
What is Bone China?
- Durability
Bone china is incredibly durable, offering both strength and elegance in one lightweight material. Made from a blend of porcelain and bone ash, it has an exceptionally strong structure while remaining delicate and refined. Its translucency and resistance to chipping and scratching make it a luxurious yet durable option. - Style
Known for its refined beauty, bone china offers a smooth, glossy surface and delicate finish. Steelite’s traditional English-style bone china features the highest natural bone ash content, adding to its luxurious look. The range includes classic shapes and a full Asian offering, making it perfect for high-end dining presentations. Bone china is available in white collections, decorated patterns, and bespoke commissions for a unique and luxurious finish. - Ideal Use
Bone china is ideal for fine dining establishments, luxury hotels, and catering services that specialize in premium experiences. Its combination of durability, lightweight design, and luxurious finish makes it the perfect choice for formal events, gourmet restaurants, and upscale hospitality settings.
When it comes to selecting the right dinnerware for your business, there’s a lot to consider. Whether you need the durability and hygiene of vitrified china, the refined elegance of porcelain, the rustic charm of stoneware, or the luxurious finish of bone china, Steelite offers the perfect solution to meet your needs.
