Chargers serve a few purposes pending the table and meal. Chargers may come in all different materials, both formal or informal, and can be used to protect tables from heat and condensation of plates, or can simply be decorative. Food should never be placed directly on a charger, and instead only on plates.2 Oct 2019
Why is a table charger called a charger?
North America. Food is not actually served on chargers; they are often called underplates or chop plates. The word "charger" originated around 1275–1325 from the Middle English "chargeour". Formerly, a charger signified either a large platter or a large, shallow dish for liquids.
What is a dinner table charger?
The service plate, or charger, is laid down at the beginning of the meal and typically stays for some or all of the courses before the main entree. Once the entree is served, the charger is taken off the table and replaced with the main dining plate.2 Oct 2019
Do you use placemats with Chargers?
In most cases, using a place mat under a charger is not necessary. Placing on top of a tablecloth is fine. Chargers are decorative elements that protect the tablecloth or table and add color and formality, essentially serving the same purpose as place mats.
Do chargers go on top of placemats?
Set it on top of the tablecloth or placemat, in between the arranged flatware, and below the beverage glasses. Chargers should be two feet from one another to give guests enough elbow room.1 Feb 2021
What is the point of a charger plate?
Chargers plates are not intended to come in contact with the food that will be eaten. Their purpose is to add to the visual effect of your table, allow servers to easily replace the bowls and plates held on the charger and prevent stains and damage to your linens by catching food and spills!
Where does a charger plate go?
The service plate, or charger, is laid down at the beginning of the meal and typically stays for some or all of the courses before the main entree. Once the entree is served, the charger is taken off the table and replaced with the main dining plate. Dessert should never be served on a charger.2 Oct 2019
Do you put a placemat under a charger?
Bottom Line. In most cases, using a place mat under a charger is not necessary. Placing on top of a tablecloth is fine. Chargers are decorative elements that protect the tablecloth or table and add color and formality, essentially serving the same purpose as place mats.
Do charger plates stay on table?
A charger, also referred to as a service plate or an underplate, is larger than a dinner plate and is used for decorative purposes. In essence, if a charger is used throughout dinner, it will remain on the table and is only removed before the dessert is served.22 Apr 2019