Do people still use chargers under plates?
Chargers serve a few purposes pending the table and meal. Chargers may come in all different materials, both formal or informal, and can be used to protect tables from heat and condensation of plates, or can simply be decorative. Food should never be placed directly on a charger, and instead only on plates.
Can I use plastic charger plates?
While plastic charger plates can be quite durable, they do not always last as long as the more expensive ones. The quality also is not as fine as porcelain, and the lacquer or paint may chip away or darken in spots over time. A decorative charger plate never directly touches any food.
What are charger plates called?
underplates
Food is not actually served on chargers; they are often called underplates or chop plates. The word “charger” originated around 1275–1325 from the Middle English “chargeour”. Formerly, a charger signified either a large platter or a large, shallow dish for liquids.
What purpose does a charger plate serve?
A charger plate is a large, decorative plate that is used in formal settings such as weddings, catered events, banquets, or fine dining restaurants to elevate the ambience and dining experience of the guests. The average size of a charger plate is 13 inches, while a typical dinner plate is about 10 to 10.5 inches.
When should charger plates be removed?
Wait for guests to finish eating: Chargers are always removed from the table after all guests are finished eating the main entree. Chargers should then be taken away with the dinner plate still on top, as this clears the table and leaves it ready for dessert to be served.
Are charger plates worth it?
Charger plates are an essential element of fine dining, but should not be used to serve food. At formal dining events, charger plates play a supporting role – catching spills and helping hot dishes, such as soup, retain heat.
Do you use placemats with charger plates?
Keep in mind that charger plates are traditionally larger than standard entrée dinner plates. Place a charger plate on top of the tablecloth or placemat at each seat, and finish setting the table. The charger plate is designed to act as a base.
Do you remove charger plates before eating?
The charger plates should be on the table when the guests are seated. The soup, fish or salad course are served on top of the charger. It is customary for the charger plate to be removed prior to the serving of the entree or dinner course.
Do you need placemats if you use chargers?
In most cases, using a place mat under a charger is not necessary. Placing on top of a tablecloth is fine. Chargers are decorative elements that protect the tablecloth or table and add color and formality, essentially serving the same purpose as place mats.