Seven common tableware and their Chinese names

One of the most significant aspects of studying the Chinese language is learning common vocabulary that we may use in everyday situations. Let's broaden your Chinese vocabulary with phrases from the kitchen or restaurant and learn the Chinese names for tableware! In Chinese, tableware is referred to as "餐具" (cānjù), where "餐" (cān) means "meal" and "具" (jù) means "tools."

01.                      Chopsticks (筷子 kuàizi)

Chopsticks, or 筷子 (kuàizi), are a prominent and iconic part in Chinese eating culture. Chinese chopsticks frequently represent the country's rich history and different regional influences, displaying patterns, colours, and craftsmanship. Even though chopsticks are the first thing you’ll encounter in China, you might still expect to find other things in a restaurant if you need them.

02.                      Spoon (勺子sháozi)

A spoon is one of the more "common" items for Chinese people and can be found in practically any restaurant. It's utilised in soups, congee, soft meals that are easy to break (like tofu), liquid sweets, and so on. To consume delicate delicacies like xiaolongbao, you can use a spoon and chopsticks.  Keep in mind that Chinese spoons differ slightly from Western "soup" spoons in that they are frequently made of ceramics and have a short, thick grip with higher sides.

03.                      Knife (刀dāo)

According to Chinese culture, knives belong in the kitchen. The cook uses it to cut all of the components into bite-sized pieces, eliminating the need for a knife at the table. Previously, this practice saved a lot of fuel during cooking because food sliced into small pieces cooked faster. Most Western restaurants will supply a 'fork + knife' set, but you may need to request it. 服务员，可以给我一个刀吗? Fúwùyuán, kěyǐ gěi wǒ yí gè dāo ma? Waiter, could you please offer me a knife? Using the modal verb 可以 (kěyǐ) - "can" adds politeness to the request. Feel free to replace the word "knife" with any other item you might need.

04.                      Fork （叉子chāzi）

A fork is a staple in the West, but it is uncommon in China. However, if you are unable to use chopsticks, you may always request it. And if you go to a Western-style restaurant or one that serves foods that require cutting (for example, large chunks of meat), the dishes will be provided with a knife and fork.

05.                      Plate （盘子pánzi）

盘子 (pánzi) is typically used to serve main dishes and appetisers. In Chinese eating culture, 盘子 has a symbolic meaning, indicating the abundance of sharing meals during family gatherings and other functions.

06.                      Bowl （碗wǎn）

Bowls are often composed of ceramic, porcelain, or plastic and available in a variety of sizes to fit different sorts of dishes. In China, 碗 (wǎn) is commonly used to serve rice, noodles, soups, and other dishes.

07.                      Cup / Glass （杯子bēizi）

There are numerous sorts of 杯子 (bēizi), each tailored for distinct beverages or events. Here are a few common types:

茶杯 (chá bēi) • tea cup.
Typically smaller in size, excellent for drinking various varieties of tea.

The term "kāfēi bēi" refers to coffee cups.
Often larger than teacups and appropriate for serving coffee.

水杯 (shuǐ bēi) = water cup
A cup used for serving water or other non-alcoholic beverages.

酒杯 (píjiǔ bēi) • beer cup
Sturdy and sometimes larger in size, ideal to serve beer.

高脚杯 (gāojiǎo bēi): goblet
A tall-stemmed cup, commonly used to serve wine or champagne.