Where can you get the best selection of fine china dinnerware? 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.
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Mikasa, with its origins as a dinnerware importer dating back to the 1940s, has a rich history of supplying fine china to upscale department stores like Bloomingdales and Macy's. Over the years, their offerings expanded to include direct retail sales to the public, encompassing a diverse range of home decor items such as vases and picture frames.
Easy-to-shop online store
Mikasa offers an extensive selection of dinnerware, including just over three dozen patterns in the fine china category alone. To make your shopping experience easier, take advantage of their filters. Depending on your needs, consider clicking on "Fine China" and selecting "Place Settings" or use the "Sets" filter to choose service for 4, 8, or 12. You'll find additional options to refine your search, such as color, pattern, shape, and more.
View the china at different angles
One convenient feature Mikasa provides is the ability to view essential details as you explore their china dinnerware. You can click the heart icon to save your favorite items, and hovering over an image allows you to see close-ups or different angles. While some china items may not have many customer reviews, you can still find the average rating for those that do.
Read the details
When considering a specific china dinnerware pattern or set, be sure to read the "Additional Details" section on the product page. This section provides important information about whether the china is microwave- and/or dishwasher-safe. For example, the Parchment Gold collection is hand wash only and should not be used in the microwave, while the Holiday Traditions pattern is a-okay to go in the dishwasher (but not the microwave). You'll also find details about the dimensions and capacity of plates, bowls, and cups.
Budget-conscious can still be beautiful
Out of all the brands we've examined, Mikasa stands out as one of the most budget-friendly options. Few fine china manufacturers offer 5-piece place settings for under $75, but Mikasa offers several choices at or near that price point. Check out collections like Parchment, Cameo Gold, and Love Story to explore affordable options. You could fill your china cabinet with a 40-piece service for 8 for just $229.99 in the Parchment, Platinum Crown, and Regent Bead patterns.
Can you spot the savings opportunities?
Plus, Mikasa often offers storewide sales, occasionally reaching discounts as high as 25% off, including clearance items. If there's no sale happening when you're ready to order, you can still enjoy a 15% discount on your first order by signing up for the Mikasa mailing list. Plus, orders over $40 qualify for free shipping.
Parent brand isn't so well-liked
When it comes to Mikasa's reputation, it might initially appear confusing. The company is part of Lifetime Brands (who also owns well-known brands like Pfaltzgraff and Instant Pot), which holds a "D-" rating from the Better Business Bureau due to failure to respond to several customer complaints. However, it's important to note that most of these negative reviews were not specifically about Mikasa but rather other brands within the extensive Lifetime Brands portfolio.
Mikasa has improved its reputation
And, when you look at the hundreds of independently-verified reviews on the Mikasa site, both for specific china dinnerware patterns and items as well as for the company itself, you'll see why we've moved this brand up in our rankings. Most customers wind up really liking their Mikasa dinnerware - and if not, the store's "No Hassle 90-Day Return Policy" for new and unused items is a good backup, at least if you take it out of the box and don't like what you see. Mikasa also has a free breakage replacement policy, but be aware that it only applies to their "Vegan Bone China" dinnerware.
A recommended brand for china dinnerware
Mikasa has grown to become an excellent choice for those seeking well-priced china dinnerware in a variety of patterns. Whether you buy it directly from the brand or you get it through one of the third-party retailers on our list, your Mikasa bowls, plates, cups, and matching serveware should last for many meals and parties in your future.
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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.
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!
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