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4 unique table setting ideas to create a restaurant-style dining experience at home
1. A romantic French bistro
Ideal for intimate dinners, or date nights where you want to create a sense of luxury. This table setting idea offers elegance and romance in one. Soft lighting, rich colours, and delicate details come together to create a table that feels both inviting and elegant.
Romantic table setting ideas:
- Mix and match
The table setting plays a key role in setting the tone for the entire evening. Contrasting patterns with complimentary colours bring visual interest to the table while keeping the overall tone cohesive. The delicate botanical pattern of the classic Ostindia Floris in a delightful shade of green contrasts perfectly with a striped linen napkin. And the contrasts needn’t stop there. Bring depth into the setting with textured water glasses like the beautifully rustic and unique Ultima Thule from Iittala. - Bring height to the table
A simple centre piece can bring sophistication and visual interest to your table setting. Keep it simple with just two or three candles in a chunky candle holder, Festivo from Iittala is perfect, be sure to avoid cluttering the table or blocking the sightline of your guests.
Plate like a chef
For the ultimate at home dining experience plate your food like a chef with these simple tips
- Serve smaller portions:
Restaurants often serve smaller, visually appealing portions. Don’t overload plates. Instead, focus on leaving space on the plate to create an artistic presentation. - Garnish thoughtfully:
Garnishes should be both beautiful and functional. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of sauce, or a wedge of citrus can elevate the appearance of your dish. Just be mindful to use garnishes that complement the flavours of the dish. - Use height and layers:
Professional chefs use height and layers to add dimension to their plating. Stack or arrange food vertically, this can be as simple as placing a piece of meat on top of vegetables for a more dynamic presentation.
Romantic table setting ideas
2. Classic fine dining
For those who appreciate simplicity a clean, modern table setting offers understated elegance. Perfect for formal gatherings when you want to showcase the food as the star of the meal.
Modern white table setting ideas:
- A crisp white table setting
Nothing says elegant restaurant like a clean white table setting with a freshly ironed tablecloth and napkins. Elegant white porcelain like the carefully crafted Swedish Grace paired with the elegant line of the Cobra candle holders for an eye-catching centre piece and a unified setting. - It’s in the details
A bottle of wine on the table in a wine cooler; understated elegance in the form of the Bernadotte napkin rings and matching cutlery that complement the polished chrome serving bowls from Georg Jensen and bring the table together; it’s the little details that make your table setting feel considered and your guests feel welcome. - An added extra
Go the extra mile, great your guests at the door, take their coats and jackets and invite them inside with a signature cocktail or the house wine just like their favourite restaurant would.
Modern white table setting ideas
3. The bohemian lunch spot
If your style is more down to earth with a rustic touch, then perhaps this bohemian table setting is for you. Perfect for casual gatherings, or dinner parties where you want to cultivate a laid-back but stylish atmosphere.
Rustic bohemian table setting ideas:
- Let the tableware create the drama!
Choose eye catching plates in bold colours and patterns, combine different parts of the highly patterned Taika collection with the retro and ever fashionable Teema collection, both from Iittala, for an eclectic contrast that creates visual interest. - Think natural and organic
Use linen table cloths and napkins for texture and a coloured glass vase with dried flowers works as a simple but rustically elegant centre piece. Keep the table simple, the key to a real restaurant feeling at home is to create something visually appealing while also keeping the table free from too much clutter.
Rustic bohemian table setting ideas
4. The playful retro diner
If you want to create a fun and lively atmosphere, especially for casual gatherings or celebrations, a playful and colourful table setting is the way to go. Don’t be afraid to mix and match clashing and vibrant hues to really wow your guests.
Colourful table setting ideas:
- Contrasting colours
Dare to be bold. A delicate lilac mug with a moss green handle? A beige bowl with a vibrant yellow edge? Sounds like an unlikely marriage and yet in the Play collection they make the perfect playful paring. - Keep it simple
This table setting is all about the vibrant pops of colour, keep everything else simple. Place a clear glass vase like Alvar Aalto on the table with flowers that compliment your setting and nothing more.
- Quirky details
Want to up the fun factor even more? Add quirky details to your table setting. A Birds by Toikka Robin in moss green (of course) or something equally playful is sure to get your guests talking.
Colourful table setting ideas
Creating a restaurant experience at home, no matter your style, is all about blending fine dining elements with the warmth of a home setting. Pay attention to the ambiance, table setting, and food presentation and you can elevate a dinner party into a sophisticated, restaurant-style affair. With a little planning and attention to detail you’ll not only impress your guests but also create an atmosphere that feels cosy, personal, and unforgettable.
Photography: Angeliqa Daldorph
Shot at Portal restaurant, Stockholm, Sweden
