Portuguese tableware

Why Portuguese tableware?

If you're looking for plates and tableware that are not only functional but also create a beautiful experience, you'll quickly find Portuguese tableware. These pasta plates, dinner plates, and bowls bring a piece of Portuguese culture to the table: they're made of natural clay and minerals and contain no harmful substances. They retain heat well and are oven- and microwave-safe, so your dishes stay warm longer. Why should you choose Portuguese tableware?

On this page we delve into the history and discover what makes this tableware so special.

History of Portuguese tableware: from Moorish influences to modern art

Portugal's love of ceramics dates back to the Middle Ages. Moorish influences brought new styles to the Iberian Peninsula in the 8th century. In the 15th century, Portugal began importing porcelain from China; the demand for this luxury item led local craftsmen to produce their own. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the country became famous for its hand-painted azulejos —ceramic tiles that adorn churches, palaces, and homes. This blend of cultures, techniques, and stories is reflected in contemporary Portuguese tableware. Each generation learned the art of clay, glaze, and fire and passed on their knowledge. This created a tradition where craftsmanship and creativity converge.

What makes Portuguese tableware unique?

Besides its rich history, the production method of Portuguese tableware is exceptional. Pieces are fired at high temperatures (around 1150°C), making the stoneware strong and food-safe. The water absorption rate of approximately 2% makes the tableware durable and suitable for everyday use. At Mimo's production facility, all glazes are developed in their own laboratory: some are inspired by Japanese techniques, others are created through experimental processes. By using pure oxides, frits, and natural components, intense colors and textures are created that are unmatched. This creative process is based on the wabi-sabi philosophy, which embraces imperfection; no two plates are identical, but all pieces form a harmonious family.

Plates and crockery for every table

Portuguese tableware is versatile thanks to its depth, color, and texture. Mimo plates range from deep browns to ocean blues and midnight blues—perfect for Japanese interiors or country kitchens. The shape and size of a plate determine the look of your dish: a deep pasta dish perfectly holds sauces, while a flat plate allows for creative plating. Choose plates and pasta dishes in different colors to personalize your table; the reactive glaze ensures each piece is a work of art. Combine them with matching bowls and cups for a complete dinnerware set, or mix and match for a playful effect.

Pasta plates: function meets design

Pasta plates are a must-have these days. Whether you choose the brown On the Rocks plate, the green Ocean Breeze , or the deep blue Midnight Blue , each plate is a showcase of Portuguese craftsmanship and tells a story of nature and glaze.

Wabi-sabi: embrace imperfection

The creative process focuses on finding a balance between spectacular glaze effects and production stability. Variations in color and texture are cherished – they give each plate its own personality and illustrate the wabi-sabi principle of beauty in imperfection. Mimo also reuses recycled heat and water, minimizing the environmental impact.

Want to make your table even more beautiful? Shop for your favorite tableware set!