The way a dish looks has been important to the dining experience since forever, but perhaps never more than now. Relaxed and homey. Or vibrant and celebratory. And perhaps shareable, too.
“Chefs know that guests spend a lot of time looking at their plates,” says Chandra Ram, associate editorial director of Food & Wine magazine.
“So it’s another detail, before you eat, to help set the stage for a visual experience. This is especially true for dishes they know are going to make it onto Instagram — a beautiful plate makes for a better (and more shareable) image, which helps market the restaurant.”
As with restaurants, so with the home.
Design is all over new tableware. The classic white ceramic circle has ceded some ground to plates in a variety of creative shapes and colors.
“Chefs and restaurants are moving away from traditional ways of food presentation,” says Thomas Kastl, director of dining at Ambiente, the global homewares trade fair in Frankfurt each year. “The latest trend embraces handmade-style tableware, or irregular shapes inspired by nature, like leaves or shells.”
A look at the Gaza war protests that have emerged on US college campuses
People from across the globe reveal the 'obvious signs that someone is an American'
Hyderabad curries favour: No one knows the origin of biryani
Veteran DEA agent sentenced to 4 years for leaking intelligence in Miami bribery conspiracy
I took a trip on America's CHEAPEST cruise
Gas prices are on the rise again. Here's where experts say they are going next.
The city break that'll bring even the surliest of teens to life: Inside Washington DC
Southwest Airlines flight attendants ratify a contract that will raise pay about 33% over 4 years
The biggest holiday price hikes of the past 50 years revealed by Which?
David Beckham broke major rule at wife Victoria's star
First look: Alton Towers' 50mph Nemesis rollercoaster is unveiled to the public with a brand