Is Stoneware A Good Fit for Your Restaurant? 

You have plenty of options in the types of dinnerware you present to your guests - could stoneware be a good choice?  While unusual, stoneware can make for an extremely memorable dining experience, and it's easier to work with than you might think!

What Makes Stoneware Unique Among Fired Dinnerware

First, a definition: Stoneware is, specifically, a ceramic made from a non-porous clay that is fired at a temperature between 2150- and 2330-degrees Fahrenheit. This results in an extremely thick and hard form of fired dinnerware. While it is typically glazed as a finishing technique, stoneware does not necessarily have to be glazed, unlike some alternatives.

Stoneware is different from porcelain mostly in that porcelain is significantly thinner, and easier to break. It varies from earthenware in that earthenware is naturally quite porous, and as a result, must be glazed to be usable for food consumption.

In general, stoneware has a vibe of being earthy and rustic, making it a good fit for restaurants aiming for that feel. It has attractive looks and feels good to eat off of, while still being sturdy enough to survive in a busy dining environment.

How Can Stoneware Be Used?

In most cases, unless the manufacturer has used certain specific glazes, stoneware is safe for:

• Ovens
• Microwaves
• Freezers
• Dishwashers

In other words, stoneware can be used in virtually any role in the kitchen that might be served with more traditional types of plates and dishes.  However, you would want to check the packaging or the manufacturer's website to ensure this is true of any particular piece, as there can be exceptions.

Care and Cleaning of Stoneware

Since most stoneware is dishwasher-safe, it can generally be treated like any other piece of dinnerware. However, there are a few specific care tips and tricks to be aware of:

1. Never soak stoneware in water for an extended amount of time. Depending on its exact composition, the glaze could begin to break down after as little as 30 minutes of soaking.
2. Hard metal scrubbers can easily damage the glaze. Use a paste formed from baking soda and vinegar to gently scrub out tough stains.
3. Use lemon juice (or any acidic juice) to gently remove grease, without damaging the glaze.

Zanduco Restaurant Equipment & Supplies Has Your Restaurant Supplies

Zanduco Restaurant Equipment & Supplies proudly carries a huge range of products aimed at providing every non-food item a restaurant might need. Click here to browse our catalog!