Serving Trays & Platters

How to Choose Serving Platters & Trays

When choosing serving platters and serving trays, the most important factors are material, occasion and size — each plays a role in how your table looks and functions.

Material sets the tone. A wooden serving tray or board brings warmth and a relaxed, rustic feel, making it ideal for grazing platters, cheese boards and casual entertaining. Marble and slate offer a more refined look, perfect for charcuterie, desserts and seafood, while naturally keeping food cool. For everyday versatility, a ceramic serving platter in porcelain or stoneware is durable, dishwasher safe and often suitable for oven-to-table use.

Think about how you’ll use it. Long rectangular boards are ideal for grazing and shared starters, while round or oval platters suit roasts, cakes and centrepieces. Trays with raised edges and handles are designed for carrying — whether it’s drinks, breakfast in bed or serving guests. For layered entertaining, stands and raised platters help create height and visual interest across the table.

Size matters depending on the gathering. Smaller platters are suited to side dishes and everyday use, while larger boards and trays become the focal point for entertaining. If you’re building a full setup, serving pieces pair naturally with coordinated table settings like dinnerware and glassware, helping create a cohesive look from kitchen to table.

With the right combination of materials and sizes, serving platters and trays become as much a part of the presentation as the food itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a serving platter?
A serving platter is a large, flat or shallow dish designed to present food for sharing at the table. Unlike a dinner plate or bowl, it offers a wide surface that showcases food visually, making it ideal for roasts, grazing boards, charcuterie, desserts and more.

What is the difference between a serving tray and a serving platter?
A serving tray typically has raised edges and often handles, designed for carrying food and drinks from the kitchen to the table. A serving platter is usually flat or shallow and designed to sit on the table for serving. Many pieces, especially wooden boards, can function as both.

What size serving platter do I need?
For everyday use or smaller groups, platters under 30cm are ideal. A 30–45cm platter is the most versatile for standard dinners, while larger platters and boards (45cm+) are best for entertaining and grazing tables.

What are wooden serving trays made of?
Most wooden serving trays are made from hardwoods like acacia, bamboo or mango wood. These materials are durable, food-safe and naturally resistant to bacteria. They should be hand-washed and occasionally oiled to maintain their finish.

Can serving platters go in the oven?
Some can. Porcelain and stoneware platters are often oven-safe and suitable for oven-to-table serving, but it’s important to check individual product instructions. Wooden, marble and melamine pieces should not be used in the oven.

How do you clean marble or slate serving platters?
Marble and slate should be hand-washed only. Use a mild detergent, dry immediately and avoid acidic cleaners, which can damage the surface. Proper care helps maintain their appearance over time.