How to Use Charger Plates ?

A charger plate is a service plate on the table for a meal setting. You will often see them in restaurants and at formal events. Also known as a chop or service plate, the charger plate does not have food come in contact with it. Charger plates can be made from wood, standard china, glass, metal and even mother of pearl. They can be plain, elegantly simple or works of art, and they are found in a variety of shapes. This under plate is larger than a dinner plate and smaller than your serving platters. Charger plates can be part of your tableware supplies or rented for special occasions. You can use charger plates for your next family, romantic or celebratory meal.

Instructions

  • 1. Place the charger plate on to the table exactly 1 inch from the edge at each place setting before or as the guests arrive.
  • 2. Set the table with the silverware placed on both sides of the charger plate.
  • 3. Set first course dishes, such as individual soup bowls, on to the center of the charger plate.
  • 4. Remove the first-course serving dish from the charger plate. If there is any food residue on the charger, remove it from the table. Take the charger plate to the kitchen. You can quickly wipe the food residue from the charger or hand wash it, if necessary. Replace the charger plate.
  • 5. Serve the next first-course dish. For example, a salad plate would be set in the center of the charger plate.
  • 6. Decide if you wish to keep the charger plates on the table during the entree serving. You can place the entree dinner plate directly onto the charger plate.
  • 7. Remove the charger plates from the table before serving dessert.