The white plate has, and probably always will, reign supreme for hospitality professionals — for its extreme flexibility and ability to make virtually every type of food shine. But, when used wisely, infusing distinctive colors and styles to your presentations can bring new energy and create a unique character that set your destination apart.

Expressive dinnerware can make for an experience that is funky, eclectic or adventurous — and always memorable. Whether it’s a colorful accent or a full-on visual spectacle, here are five tips for bringing new hues, textures and shapes to your presentations — creating an even more memorable experience for your members and guests.

1. A LITTLE GOES A LONG WAY

It doesn’t take a rainbow of dinnerware to introduce a fresh look. Consider mixing in just a few elements to your existing collection. Whether for a shared plate or the chef’s specials, a unique accent piece of tableware can focus attention on the main attraction.

Libbey’s extensive and growing dinnerware selection provides stunning trend-forward options that are made to flexibly mix and match for virtually endless combinations. That means you can get even more usage from your tableware through inspired combinations.

2. STRIKING CONTRASTS

Creating vivid contrast between the dinnerware and food helps create presentations that pop. Dishes that can look blah against a white plate, like fettuccini or white rice, take on new depth and interest when plated against a rich color. This kind of contrast can dramatically influence people’s perception of food. In fact, contrasting the food and plate has even been proven to make a smaller amount of food look more substantial — great for presenting dishes with a more modest portion.

Well-chosen color complements are a great way to create pleasing contrast. The deep blue hues of new World® Stonewash pattern create a stunning backdrop to orange and brown hues, like those in the oyster dish featured here. Add to the visual tapestry by pairing it with the stylish patterns of SCHÖNWALD Shabby Chic, from Libbey’s Artistry Collection™ of premium brands, or create striking contrast against bright-white dinnerware, such as Constellation™ dinnerware.

3. THE “HANDMADE” LOOK

As evidenced by the rising “maker” movement, the handmade look is definitely in vogue. Pieces that are “perfectly imperfect” create a down-to-earth charm — adding authenticity and depth to your presentations.

Serve your members and guests with stoneware that’s rich with character — like new World® Dulcet pattern. With a distinctive dash-and-dotted design, it comes in natural-looking colors, including pink, cream and gray.

4. ORGANIC HUES AND TEXTURES

In addition to going to the vibrant side of the color spectrum, your dinnerware can also create a rich natural aesthetic that brings a cultivated feel. Introducing organic textures and design can further intensify the character and intrigue.

The new Hedonite pattern from World® Tableware is formed with a heat-reactive glazing process that introduces a distinctive spectrum of intermingling colors, and no two pieces are the same. Additionally, options from Libbey’s World Driftstone pattern provide a range of rich earthy tones, including a new clay body color.

5. FAR-OFF PLACES

Introducing global influences lets your diners taste the world. Let your tableware enhance the adventure with bold designs that engage the imagination and inspire the wanderlust within.

The tribal style of newly introduced Afar is ideal for creating adventures on the plate with your worldly-inspired dishes — providing a thrilling culinary journey to far-off lands. As with Hedonite, these expressive textures look great when contrasted against Driftstone.

LIBBEY OFFERS A FULL SPECTRUM OF CREATIVE OPTIONS

Your members and guests constantly crave something new. That’s why Libbey® is always bringing you the fresh, insight-driven tabletop solutions that help you serve your one-of-a-kind experiences. We help you blend your venue’s unique character with today’s major culinary trends — keeping people coming back for more. For more inspiration, explore our new 2018-19 Libbey Professional Tabletop Collection catalog or visit foodservice.libbey.com