What does the term holloware mean?
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The foodservice industry is peppered with unique terms and phrases. We seem to be experts at generating jargon better than almost any other profession. The term “holloware” is a great example and is a term rarely used by someone who has not owned or operated a restaurant or diner.

What Exactly is Holloware?

Once you know what holloware is, you will recognize it immediately everywhere. It will be in front of you when you stop at a local diner for coffee. It will be on your table when you stop to grab a bite to eat at your favorite burger-joint. Holloware refers to a variety of pieces of metal tableware used in serving. This includes things such as platters, sugar bowls, coffee pots, soup tureens and more.

These encompass receptacles of many different kinds. In other words, they hold things.

Another defining feature is that the holders are made of metal. Traditionally, they are made of silver or silverplate. In the modern context, we see stainless steel versions as well.

Outside of the foodservice industry, the term is used for items made of other materials such as glass or ceramics.

A traditional holloware sugar bowl from World Tableware.
A traditional holloware sugar bowl from World® Tableware.

Holloware is typically more durable than other metal or silver-plated products. For example, you would not normally consider decorative tea and coffee service sets holloware. Holloware items get used quite frequently. Therefore, they must resist the dings and scratches often encountered in commercial applications.

The term does not include things such as plates, flatware, cutlery, or serving utensils. Even if those items are constructed of similar metal materials, they are not considered holloware. However, products including candlesticks, vases, and napkin rings are also sometimes grouped under the term holloware. It is important to remember, holloware items are typically serving accessories.

One of the most popularly seen pieces of holloware is used for coffee creamer like this one from World Tableware. It's at home from the most humble diner to the most ritzy restaurant.
One of the most popularly seen pieces of holloware is used for coffee creamer like this one from World® Tableware. It’s at home from the most humble diner to the most ritzy restaurant.

Makes a Great Gift

As a fun fact, silver holloware is considered to be the recommended gift for a 16th wedding anniversary. It’s hard to imagine a table setting being complete without silver serving pieces. Of course it’s not necessary to wait 16 years to add nice serving pieces to your dining room table. Simply use the special occasion as an opportunity to upgrade or add some silver holloware to your personal dining decor.

Accessories such as an elegant water pitcher like this one from Worthy, Noble & Kent can really add to the overall tabletop presentation.
Accessories such as an elegant water pitcher like this one from Worthy, Noble & Kent can really add to the overall tabletop presentation.

Great Tabletop Design

We often focus on china, flatware and glassware when designing a stunning tabletop display. However, including the appropriate holloware pieces to your design strategy completes your tabletop presentation. This in turn improves your customer’s experience and encourages repeat visits.

It is important for every restaurant owner to consider how their guests will interact with the tabletop design. A robust tabletop strategy that includes halloware will ensure your dining area is both functional and beautiful. Having all the functional accessories needed to provide an amazing dining experience is critical to the overall customer experience.

Now that you know what halloware is, rest assured you will notice it everywhere. Now set your tables and be sure your customers have the servingware they need to enjoy their food. You will know your halloware placement is perfect when your patrons don’t even notice it’s there. They will simply remember having a great dining experience at a beautiful venue. Then they will share that experience with others, which is the best compliment you could receive.

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