Best Bets: 10 Stunning Serving Pieces
If you’re a host with the most, you know the importance of presentation to create a proper soiree. Whether it's pre-meal nibbles or the last cocktail of the night, an evening of celebratory provisions deserves to be showcased accordingly. These 10 pieces are sure to wow every guest.
Written by Sarah Schaale
Plate by Iittala x Issey Miyake
Made from vitroporcelain in a soft hexagonal shape, these small plates are perfect for pre-party nibbling. The fresh color palette—a dark green, pale pink and soft white—was designed especially for this collection, which is a special collaboration between Issey Miyake and Iittala. From plates to platters to home décor, the collection blends the craftsmanship and ambiance of both Scandinavian and Asian design traditions.
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Kastehelmi Cake Stand by Iittala
Whether homemade or straight from the bakery, this cake stand from one of Iittala’s signature series puts tasty treats on an elegant display. The distinctive dewdrop-like pattern was created by designer Oiva Toikka in 1964 to mask the joint marks that were inevitable in the production of pressed glass. The result was an enhancement to Iittala’s glass “recipe” and a look that quickly became one of the brand’s most recognized and beloved collections.
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Antechinus Cheese Knife by Alessi
Can a cheese knife start a conversation? If so, this petite blade would be the one to do it. Its smooth lines are reminiscent of both a mouse and his favorite snack, creating a sensuous grip that makes for easy slicing. But the shape isn’t merely functional—it makes for an attractive addition to that beauty of a cheese board you worked so hard on.
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Aarne Set of 2 Cocktail Glasses by Iittala
We love the modern, angular form of Goran Hongell’s Aarne collection, which is especially prevalent in this pair. The designer was one of the pioneers of Finnish glass tradition, and each set is made from mouth-blown glass. A heavy base adds stability to the delicate design.
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Brew Coffee Collection by Tom Dixon
For coffee aficionados, brewing the perfect cup is a bit of an art—and Tom Dixon’s Brew Collection ensures that serving it is, too. This shiny set is composed of soft dome shapes, polished cylinders and opulent copper finishes, with a beautiful piece for every stage of coffee making, from the scoop of the grounds to the first glorious sip.
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Fior D'Olio Olive Oil Pourer and Taster by Alessi
This pretty topper not only dresses up the condiment spread, it controls the oxidation process from opening a bottle of the green gold. It fits into the neck of a bottle of olive oil, providing the perfect drizzle right at the table. The bottom glass container serves a second function as a tasting glass, designed in compliance with professional tasting regulations.
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Nero Insulated Coffee Glasses by Blomus
No need to break out your tired collection of vacation mugs—this double-walled, clear glass duo is a sleek upgrade to a post-meal digestif. The form’s design is insulated to protect hands from the temperature inside. While this set is perfect for serving coffee creations, the parts can also be used for ice-cold desserts or individual party snacks.
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Cha Tea Set by Alessi
A refined and minimalistic way to brew—and serve!—a hot cup of tea, this design goes from the stovetop right to the tabletop. Careful curvatures and a mirror-polished stainless steel finish bring new life to the age-old tradition of tea time, especially when paired with the matching creamer and sugar bowl.
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Wine Breather Carafe Deluxe – Gold by Menu
Pro tip: Decanting a bottle of vino before serving it provides aeration that opens up aromas and flavors, especially for full-bodied varieties. So having a decanter on hand (especially one that dresses things up a bit) is a must-have for any home bar. With the Wine Breather Carafe, simply invert a full wine bottle into the top, then serve from the carafe or invert again to return an aerated blend back to the bottle.
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Fromage Dome with Slate by Nude
The myth: Fancy food under glass is stuffy and outdated. The truth: The Fromage Dome with Slate from Nude is a modern showpiece for contemporary tables. This teardrop-shaped glass cover will turn heads, while its built-in ventilation keeps fine cheeses from sweating. The presentation is a showstopper and worthy of centerpiece status on any buffet.
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