Will someone please tell me why I have not been shopping for dishes in antique shops before?
Don’t get me wrong, I have spent many a rainy afternoon browsing the offerings of dusty, quaint, creaky floored antique stores. But for some strange reason I would always skip over the aisles or tables with the dishes, choosing instead to head straight for the dusty books, anything wood or worn, or things to hang on my walls. Yet I ignored the dishes…me who hosts dinner parties? Boy have I been missing out!
Much to my delight, it was only recently, while on a fun local foray to Almonte, Ontario, that I finally started to take notice of all things shiny. Majestic porcelain dishes, depression glass in the prettiest hues, milky white glass vases, and beautiful silverware all caught my eye. I was like a hummingbird flitting around from one booth to another in search of a statement piece, something to wow our guests at our next dinner party.
I am happy to say that I walked away with some great pieces that will no doubt impress. So, next time you visit your favourite small-town main street, take some time to browse the plentiful antique shops in search of hidden treasure. Pick up some unique pieces and impress your dinner guests with your fun finds.
Here are some tips for all you treasure hunters out there.
Why you might love dishes from antique shops:
- Value for money: Unlike big box stores, shop owners will negotiate the prices. I paid $1.00 each for a beautiful set of antique forks and knives – which are silver and dated 1881!
- Unique one of a kind: Mulberry Chintz plates, made in England in the 1930’s are known as Bristol Crown Royal Ducal, and are in my opinion a work of art! Dishes like these provide a unique and charming canvas for your foodie creations.
- Eclectic vibe: There is something special and memorable when you pair antique finds with newer contemporary dishes. I saw this a lot at the Michelin Star Restaurants we visited in Ireland in Fall 2019.
Why you might not love dishes from antique shops:
- Chips and stains: If you cannot see the charm in a chipped plate, then maybe antique shopping is not for you. Sure you can find dishes that are chip free, but don’t be disappointed if one in the set has some damage. Embrace the chips!! It’s also common for porcelain to yellow over time. There are a lot of tutorials online to remove stains from china dishware and silverware – you just have to put in some time and elbow grease and you won’t be disappointed with the results.
- Incomplete sets: If you must have everything “matchy,” this can sometimes, be a challenge. If you really love something and you find four out of the eight in the set – just go for it! Buy what you can and make it an adventure searching for missing pieces to your collection in other towns or shops.
