Feature: Tableware
T
hey say first impressions count and for those in the world of onboard catering
– that means tableware can be as critical to success as the meal itself. As Martin Piper, of Plane Talking, puts it: “In today’s gastro-savvy society, the way food is presented is as important as the food itself. It frames the food and sets the tone and style.” And, he adds: “While comfort, rustic and shabby-chic are some of the current buzz words in pub and restaurant dining, it seems that, contrary to this, the front end of the plane is still, very much, influenced by the traditional fine dining establishments. It is these that are still seen as the benchmark for the ultimate in dining experience.” Piper encourages those seeking excellence in
this area to view the tabletop as one complete area - with a common thread running through its looks and a clear relationship running through all items on the table. “Design and styling cues may be informed by the culture, branding or cabin style and then that should be apparent in the ceramics, glassware, linen and associated accessories”, he says. “With the style set, it is then for the airline, designers and providers of the equipment to create a dinner service that is somehow different and new and also reflects the particular style and personality of the carrier involved,” he adds. Global Inflight Products detects current customer trends going in two basic directions: a resurgence of elegant and modern lines coupled with a desire for a simple look. “Clients are looking for tableware that will heighten passenger perception and satisfaction,” says Lisa Benzaoui, ceo of Global Inflight Products. “Once our customer selects the general design, we work closely with them to refine the overall look and actual sizes of the plates. Presentation is key for our airline customers; they need to consider how the passenger meal or dessert will actually look on a particular plate style or size. They want to know if the porcelain will allow the food to be the star of the tray set-up; and see how the plate design may distract from the entrée? We guide our customers through this process and assist them in the creation of their custom-made,
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www.onboardhospitality.com
dine time to
Speaking to tabletop specialists recently in Hamburg it appears that designers are innovating with new materials and evolving conventional forms to add personality
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