A Comprehensive Guide to Indian Tableware

Indian cuisine is more than just food, it’s an experience. The combination of bold flavours, aromatic spices, and vibrant colours makes every dish a sensory delight. But what truly enhances this experience is the right tableware, which not only adds authenticity but also elevates the overall presentation. At Cooksmill, we specialise in supplying high-quality Indian tableware to hundreds of restaurants and homes across the UK. From copper karahi bowls to elegant thalis, we provide everything you need to create an unforgettable dining experience.

In this guide, we’ll explore the essential Indian tableware items that every restaurant or home cook needs to impress guests and customers. With these essential tableware items, you can turn every meal into a celebration of Indian culture and tradition.

Karahi Dishes: The Heart of Indian Cuisine

When you think of Indian food, the first image that likely comes to mind is a steaming bowl of curry served in a karahi. Karahi dishes are an integral part of Indian dining, known for their deep, curved shape that retains heat and keeps food warm throughout the meal. They come in a variety of styles and materials, each offering its own unique charm.


Black iron karahis, for instance, bring a sense of sophistication to any table setting. Their robust design not only looks elegant but is also built to last, making them a favourite among professional chefs. On the other hand, copper-bottom karahis offer a more traditional aesthetic, emphasising authenticity and refinement. We also offer melamine karahis and copper karahis, perfect for serving a range of curry-based dishes. These timeless pieces are perfect for showcasing the heritage of Indian cuisine while ensuring durability.

Pickle Trays: The Perfect Side

No Indian meal is complete without its signature accompaniments, and that’s where pickle trays come into play. These versatile trays are designed to hold a variety of condiments, from tangy pickles to creamy chutneys and savoury dips. They add a layer of depth to the dining experience, allowing diners to customise their meal with complementary flavours.

Cooksmill offers pickle trays in a variety of materials, including stainless steel and copper. Each option has a unique appeal, ensuring there’s something to match every table setting.

Naan Stands: Space-Saving Elegance

Naan is a staple of Indian meals, loved for its soft, fluffy texture and ability to pair perfectly with curries and tandoori dishes. However, serving naan in a visually appealing way can be a challenge, especially in busy restaurant settings where table space is usually limited. That’s where our naan stands come in.

Naan stands are designed to hold multiple pieces of bread at once, saving valuable space on the table. Crafted from high-quality materials, these stands feature sturdy bases and multiple hooks, allowing the bread to hang neatly and remain easily accessible. Not only are they practical, but they also add a touch of modern elegance to the presentation, ensuring naan is served in style.

Sizzlers: Bring Drama to the Table

If you want to create a memorable dining experience, sizzlers are the ultimate showpiece. Known for their crackling heat and enticing aroma, sizzlers are perfect for serving dishes like chicken tikka, kebabs, or paneer. They bring a sense of excitement to the table, captivating diners with their theatrical presentation.

Our sizzlers come with tasteful wooden blocks that enhance their visual appeal while protecting the table from heat damage. Beyond their practicality, sizzlers are a great way to promote dishes to other customers. When they see dishes being served on this sizzling pan, they may be persuaded to order the same for themselves.

Handis: Functionality Meets Tradition

Handis are a versatile addition to any tableware collection, ideal for serving rice, curries, and other dishes that require deep bowls. Their ability to retain and evenly distribute heat makes them an excellent choice for keeping food warm and flavourful.

Available in materials like stainless steel and terracotta, our handis come in various designs to suit different aesthetics. From hammered finishes that offer rustic charm to smooth, polished styles for a more modern look, there’s a handi for every preference. These dishes not only serve a functional purpose but also add an authentic touch to the dining experience.

Thalis: A Celebration of Diversity

Thalis are more than just plates; they celebrate Indian culinary diversity. Designed with multiple compartments, thalis allow diners to sample a variety of dishes in one serving, from curries and rice to pickles and desserts. This unique format highlights the rich flavours and vibrant colours that define Indian cuisine.

We offer thalis in copper and steel, providing options for every style and budget. These plates are perfect for buffets, traditional meals, or themed events, blending practicality with presentation.

Why Choose Cooksmill?

With years of experience supplying restaurants and catering businesses, we understand the importance of combining authenticity, functionality, and affordability. Our extensive range of products ensures you’ll find exactly what you need to enhance your dining experience.

Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our tableware is designed to help you create a memorable and authentic Indian meal. Explore our collection at Cooksmill and discover how we can transform your tabletop into a masterpiece of Indian tradition.

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