Porcelain and stoneware: which material to choose for your tableware?

Choosing the right tableware is essential to enhance the identity of your establishment. Opt for porcelain and stoneware, materials that combine elegance, durability and practicality.

Whether you are looking for the sophistication of porcelain or the authenticity of stoneware, these options enhance the image of any establishment, guarantee a long service life and meet the needs of professionals.

What is the difference between porcelain and stoneware?

Porcelain: elegance and resistance.

Porcelain is a fine ceramic made of kaolin, quartz and feldspar. It is especially prized for:

✔︎ Its resistance: thanks to firing at very high temperatures (around 1400°C), porcelain is dense, non-porous and scratch-resistant.

✔︎ Its color: naturally white and bright, it adapts easily to sober or sophisticated designs.

✔︎ Cleaning: dishwasher safe and resistant to intensive cleaning products, it is suitable for large-scale services.

The main categories of porcelain:

✔︎ vitreous china: a very dense, non-porous, fine-looking but incredibly durable ceramic. It is ideal for high-end tableware.

✔︎ Bone China Porcelain (also known as bone ash): a particularly refined type of porcelain, known for its unique translucency, lightness and luxurious appearance. It is often considered one of the most prestigious porcelains.

Stoneware: authenticity and robustness

Stoneware is a thick, robust ceramic made from clay and minerals. Its advantages include:

✔︎ Its resistance: its high temperature firing (around 1200 to 1300°C) makes it durable and particularly resistant to thermal shocks.

✔︎ Its color: naturally nuanced, it offers organic tones, perfect for warm and modern presentations.

✔︎ Cleaning: easy to maintain, stoneware is also dishwasher and microwave safe.

The main categories of stoneware:

✔︎ Glazed stoneware: ceramic that is distinguished by the use of reactive glaze. This type of glaze is designed to interact with the surface of the piece and sometimes with other glazes during firing, creating unique and unpredictable visual effects.

✔︎ Dyed stoneware: a type of stoneware in which the color is incorporated directly into the clay mass before or during shaping. Unlike plain glazing, the color penetrates throughout the material, ensuring long-lasting uniformity, even in the event of wear or chipping.

Porcelain or stoneware, what are the main advantages for professionals?

Whether you choose porcelain for its refinement or stoneware for its authenticity, these materials have common advantages:

✔︎ Longevity: sustainable investment thanks to its resistance to mechanical and thermal shocks.

✔︎ Versatility: suitable for various types of cuisine and presentations, whether haute cuisine or fast food.

✔︎ Impeccable hygiene: its smooth or enameled surface prevents the accumulation of bacteria.

The characteristics of these two materials allow you to cover specific needs according to the identity and priorities of your establishment.

Porcelain: ideal for high-end service.

✔︎ Aesthetics: its immaculate whiteness and refined finish add a touch of sophistication to your tables.

✔︎ Adaptability: suitable for both gourmet restaurants and hotels.

✔︎ Durability: scratch and impact resistance ensures long-lasting use, even in high-volume environments.

Stoneware: a perfect choice for a cozy and authentic atmosphere.

✔︎ Unique style: its natural tones and irregular finishes seduce with their handcrafted charm.

✔︎ Versatility: perfect for modern concepts, such as bistros or casual chic establishments.

✔︎ Robustness: ideal for daily use thanks to its solidity.

How to make the right choice?

The selection depends on your needs:

✔︎ Choose porcelain if you are looking for elegant and durable tableware suitable for high-end establishments.

✔︎ Choose stoneware if you want a more natural, modern and authentic look.

Whether porcelain or stoneware, these materials are a safe bet to enhance your tables and provide an unforgettable experience for your customers. Explore our selection at pilsa.com and benefit from our long experience to provide your establishment with elegance and reliability.