How to Set the Table Properly: How to Set the Perfect Table

Setting a table properly means arranging the dishes, cutlery, and glasses according to established rules. The general guidelines are: place the plates in the center, the cutlery on either side, and the glasses to the right, above the knives. Matching napkins, placemats, and decorations create a harmonious overall look.

‍

Setting a table properly does much more than simply create a place to eat. A properly set table sets the mood, showcases the food, and conveys appreciation to guests. Especially in the summer, when life moves outdoors and time spent together on the patio or in the garden is particularly enjoyable, table settings take on special significance. While they always depend on the occasion, a few basic elements ensure that a properly set table delights guests and puts a smile on their faces no matter the season.

‍Howto Set the Table Properly: Step by Step

If you want to set a table properly, follow a few simple basic rules. By following these steps, you can create a harmonious and functional table setting in no time.

Plate: Place it in the center in front of the seat.
Fork: Place it to the left of the plate.
Knife: to the right of the plate, with the blade facing the plate.
Spoon: Place it to the right of the knife.
Glasses: Arrange them in the upper right corner, above the knives.
Napkin: Place it to the left of the plate or arrange it decoratively on the plate.

Choosing the Right Tableware

When setting the table properly, the tableware draws the most attention. It shapes the first impression. Shape and color define the character and showcase the food to its best advantage. Especially in the summer, it’s a great time to add pops of color. Natural tones, soft pastels, or Mediterranean hues lend the table a sense of lightness and freshness. Organically shaped plates and bowls are particularly on-trend. For example, the Orbita line from Steelite makes it easy to embrace this trend. With their soft contours, they add a relaxed touch to the overall look and can be combined in many different ways.

Arranging Cutlery Properly

In addition to plates and side dish bowls, cutlery naturally plays an important role as well. It not only complements the tableware functionally but also contributes significantly to the overall impression of a set table. Clean lines create a harmonious look and can be combined with various tableware collections. The Fine Line collection from premioStar meets this exact requirement. Its sleek, timeless design blends seamlessly into any table setting and underscores the elegance of the table without drawing undue attention to itself. To set a table properly, start with a dinner fork, dinner knife, and dinner spoon as the basic set. Depending on the menu, appetizer or dessert cutlery complements the table setting and ensures that every course can be served in style. To highlight the cutlery and plates even more, matching placemats and napkins—such as the Dinnertex Prime napkin—are ideal. This allows for an even more deliberate pop of color. They also add texture and give the table setting a personal touch. For an extra eye-catching touch, these can be individually personalized.

Placing Glasses Correctly

Glasses play a special role, especially on warm summer days. They present refreshing beverages just as stylishly as a fine wine, while also adding a touch of elegance to the table setting. With the Impulso glassware series from premioStar, this is effortless. The clean lines and timeless design give the series a modern look and make it the ideal companion for summer table settings. The glasses are placed on the right side of the table, above the knives. A water glass is essential, especially in the summer, complemented by a white wine glass for the appetizer and a red wine glass for the main course. Carafes and wine coolers ensure that beverages can be served stylishly at all times. This keeps the drinks at a pleasant temperature while also allowing them to be displayed decoratively.

Table lamps as an atmospheric addition

A harmoniously and beautifully set table creates the perfect setting for moments of enjoyment. Carefully selected items and coordinated colors create a welcoming atmosphere where guests feel completely at ease. Table lamps are an excellent way to create a special ambiance, especially in the evening. They cast particularly atmospheric accents of light and lend a warm and inviting atmosphere to a summer-themed table setting. This creates an ambiance where good food, stimulating conversations, and shared moments take center stage.

Do you need help coming up with the perfect table setting?

Request a consultation now

Latest posts

September 2, 2026

Our new showroom is ready

In our showroom, you'll find newly redesigned areas, fresh inspiration, and even more opportunities to discover our products right on the spot.

September 2, 2026

New Colors for Concorde: Blue and Green

The popular Concorde series from Folio by Steelite is getting some colorful new additions

May 28, 2026

The future has a history

To mark the 80th anniversary of Gastroimpuls, food journalist Andrin Willi looks back on polished cutlery, legendary hulu containers, and eight decades of change in the Swiss restaurant industry.