Our reviewers evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.
China dinnerware, often referred to simply as "china," is a type of fine porcelain or ceramic dinnerware that has been cherished for centuries for its elegance and timeless beauty. Despite the changing trends in dining and tableware, china dinnerware remains popular for several reasons.
First, china dinnerware is renowned for its delicate and refined appearance. The intricate patterns, often featuring floral or geometric designs, exude a sense of timeless beauty that enhances any dining experience. The delicate translucency of fine china also adds to its charm. But, while china may seem delicate, it is actually quite durable when properly cared for. High-quality china can last for generations, making it an excellent investment.
Sunday, October 6th
Lenox, a brand with over a century of history, offers an extensive range of dinnerware including bone china, ironstone, porcelain, and stoneware. The inventory also includes brands like Kate Spade New York, Dansk, and Oneida, with options ranging from playful to formal in a wide range of colors. With a 120-day return policy and an updated Breakage Replacement Program that offers free replacements for broken Lenox-brand china, it's easy to see why this company gets rave customer reviews and an "A+" rating from the BBB. Whether you prefer formal elegance or themed patterns, Lenox adds charm to your table and continues to get our recommendation as the #1 option for china dinnerware.
Wayfair offers an extensive selection of china dinnerware, with over 2,500 options, including well-known brands like Wedgwood and Lenox. The website is easy to navigate, and filters help you find exactly what you're looking for. Prices range from budget-friendly to high-end, and Wayfair provides free shipping on orders over $35. Customer reviews and detailed product information are abundant on the site, and the company maintains an "A+" rating and accreditation from the BBB. If you want the broadest possible selection of china dinnerware, Wayfair is the way to go.
Mikasa has tons of budget-friendly dinnerware, including bone china. You could get a full dinner service for 8 for just over $200. Plus, frequent sales often reach 25% off, and signing up for their mailing list gets you a 15% discount on your first order with free shipping over $40. While their parent company has a "D-" BBB rating, Mikasa itself enjoys high customer satisfaction and offers a "No Hassle 90-Day Return Policy." It's a top choice for affordable china dinnerware, whether you buy direct from Mikasa or you get it through another retailer on our list, and we're pleased to be able to move this brand up in our rankings.
Noritake, a distinguished Japanese brand established in 1904, is renowned for its exquisite tableware and craftsmanship. Noritake offers patterns for both traditional and contemporary tastes, featuring over 200 sets in bone china alone, and their user-friendly website simplifies browsing with filters for style and functionality. While Noritake falls within a moderate price range, its quality and durability are well-regarded, although customer reviews are limited. The brand also provides a breakage replacement program, offering discounts of 25% to 50% based on the pattern. Combining affordability and elegance, Noritake remains a reliable choice for high-quality china dinnerware, though slightly outpaced by some of its closest rivals.
Tiffany & Co., known as Tiffany's, is a renowned American luxury brand founded in 1837 in New York City. Famous for its exceptional jewelry, elegant timepieces, and high-end accessories, Tiffany's has become a symbol of timeless sophistication and exquisite craftsmanship. Shopping for Tiffany's china dinnerware offers exclusivity but with limited design choices. Buyers must assemble sets piece by piece, but Tiffany's customer service includes concierge assistance and complimentary delivery. As you'd expect, Tiffany's holds an "A+" rating and BBB accreditation. Tiffany's china dinnerware suits those enamored with the brand's allure, but those seeking diverse high-end china options as well as a seamless online shopping experience should consider other brands and retailers.
Bed Bath and Beyond, now under Overstock's ownership, offers a wide range of china dinnerware with over 330 options to choose from, including both budget and high-end selections. The shopping experience closely resembles how Overstock was, with no physical store options for pickup or returns. The fine china category offers various well-loved brands, and you can shop for place settings or complete service for specific numbers of people. Prices are competitive and you'll get free shipping on any order if you're in the lower 48 states. Customer reviews are available for some products, but product info can be a little lacking. While the rebranding raises some caution due to the recent bankruptcy and merger, you might still find your ideal china dinnerware here if you're willing to take a chance on the new-and-hopefully-improved Bed Bath and Beyond.
Macy's, with over 150 years in business, offers a diverse selection of china dinnerware. They feature nearly 40 brands, including Royal Copenhagen, Vera Wang Wedgwood, American Atelier, and Mikasa, at competitive prices that often rival brand websites and plenty of complementary pieces to go along with your setting. Macy's stands out with the convenience of online ordering and in-store pickup, especially for last-minute needs. Unfortunately, Macy's customer service for online orders has faced criticism, with numerous complaints regarding undelivered orders, refund difficulties, and unresponsive representatives. While Macy's offers competitive prices, we recommend that you consider other options before making your purchase decision , especially if you value rivals' perks like free breakage replacement and generous return policies, as well as responsive customer service.
Wedgwood, known for its china dinnerware with a rich history dating back to 1759, offers eclectic designs and remarkable durability while maintaining the finest quality. Expect the price tag to reflect that. Despite being a high-end brand, Wedgwood no longer offers free shipping, and we're disappointed that Wedgwood doesn't offer a breakage replacement policy. Despite the brand's reputation, its higher prices, eclectic styles, and difficult-to-reach customer service might give you pause. If you're set on seeing your table laid with china dinnerware by Wedgwood, purchasing through a third-party retailer may offer you better customer support.
OKA offers unique china dinnerware with bold patterns, allowing for mix-and-match customization. They sell individual pieces rather than full place settings, with prices ranging from around $35 to $595, that make this a potentially pricey option for larger gatherings. Free shipping may be available with a site-specific coupon code, and returns are accepted within 45 days, with free return shipping. However, there's no breakage replacement policy, and customer reviews have raised concerns about durability. While most Trustpilot reviews are positive, OKA seems pretty risky with respect to china dinnerware. As the brand expands its selection and gathers more feedback, it may become a more appealing choice; but, for now, OKA isn't one we feel comfortable recommending.
Oneida, established in the 1800s in New York, is a well-known brand celebrated for its flatware and dinnerware collections and is affiliated with sister brands like Lenox and Kate Spade. While Oneida offers affordable options for basic dinnerware sets, its limited selection and uncertain direction in the dinnerware business earn it a lower ranking. For customers seeking beautiful or unique patterns and the ability to replace individual items, Oneida won't hold a candle to brands that invest more in their dinnerware lines.
Also, many people reserve their china dinnerware for special occasions like holidays, anniversaries, and celebrations. Using it during these moments adds a sense of tradition and significance to the event. Of course, you can always live like every day is special, because china can be suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual family dinners to formal gatherings. Its versatility allows you to create different table settings to suit various events and moods.
Finally, collecting china dinnerware has been a popular hobby for many. Some patterns and brands have become highly sought-after collectibles, with enthusiasts scouring antique shops and auctions for rare pieces. The sturdy construction ensures that it can withstand daily use and occasional accidents.
However, when you're out shopping for china dinnerware at your local stores, you might notice that your options are a bit limited. Those big-box retailers usually stock just a couple of brands and a handful of patterns. So, if you want to match your china with your home decor or you have a particular brand in mind, turning to online stores is your best bet. They tend to have a wider selection, often at better prices.
Online shops make it super easy and fun to find the perfect china for you. They've usually got handy filters and clear images of each plate, cup, bowl, and saucer. The only tricky part might be trying to pick just one pattern from all the gorgeous options they offer!
Ready to get shopping? Here are some ways to narrow down the options as you search for your perfect china dinnerware:
Whether for everyday use or special occasions, the right china dinnerware can elevate your table settings and create lasting memories. To help you find the best patterns and settings, the experts at Top Consumer Reviews have evaluated and ranked today's most popular brands and retailers. Your table will be picture-perfect in no time!
Select any 2 China Dinnerware Stores to compare them head to head