I just joined an upscale restaurant as their chocolatier. I make candies, pastries, and other nibbles about 1 inch in diameter which are served in quantities of 2 to 6 with the check.

I am looking for an inexpensive (but not cheap looking), possibly square plate about 3 inches across with some sort of rim on which to place the candy or pastries. A plain design is much better for us (like simple white, stackable porcelain). A subtle Japanese influence would be wonderful.

Do you know of a company which sells anything close to what I am looking for?

By W.DeBord on Friday, September 29, 2000 - 08:06 am: Edit

I tend to think that the retails stores have equal if not better prices than food equipment supply sources when it comes to dishes. Boy, if you lived in Chicago or a large city you can go to China town and find what your looking for very inexpensively.


Right now square plates are "in" and many stores have them. Have you looked at Pier One, Crate & Barrel,William Sonoma, Pottery Barn even Marshall Fields might have them.

We also have a large/upscale flie market in my area and if you want to mix and match (some colored plates highlight chocolate better than blk & wht)you can get tons of great dishes (depression era) at great prices. I have personally purchased square bread and butter plates there. Also when you mix and match you have less problems finding replacements over time......

By Joal on Saturday, October 07, 2000 - 10:37 pm: Edit

Dear WD,

Thanks. I landed up at Pier 1 buying exactly what I needed for $1.00 a piece minus 20% off for their big sale. What a deal!

By the way, I grew up in Chicago meeting friends under the clock at Fields, shopping at sleezy flea markets on the south side, and generally having a great time. We'll be visiting Chicago in a few weeks and will be eating at Kendall College's Culinary School and at Trio (in Evanston). I'm looking forward to it a bunch.

Thanks again.

By W.DeBord on Sunday, October 08, 2000 - 10:41 am: Edit

Glad to hear you found what you needed.

If you land here on the first weekend of the month check out Kane County flea market...there aren't many like it.

Are you from Kendalls program? I know a few people who went there. I think they must do a good job...at least I know they do a good job interacting with the entire cooking industry in Chicago. I think their the ones who are starting a pastry chefs association.?