Restaurant dinnerware is a type of tableware used in restaurants and includes everything from plates and cups to serving dishes and ramekins. It is generally heavier than standard dinnerware and is typically made from sturdier materials to withstand the rigors of commercial use. Restaurant-styled dinnerware comes in many different styles and materials, each with advantages and disadvantages. Different types of dinnerware include china, porcelain, melamine, plastic, and stainless steel. It differs from traditional tableware in several ways, one of the most important being its durability. Regular tableware is not designed to withstand the daily rigors of a commercial kitchen, including hot surfaces, frequent use, and exposure to harsh chemicals. Because commercial dinnerware is designed for commercial use, it is much more durable and can withstand daily use in the harshest commercial environments. Another significant difference between standard tableware and restaurant dinnerware is its size. In most cases, restaurant dinnerware is much larger than standard tableware. This is done on purpose, as large dinner plates and soup cups are much easier to handle with heavy mitts than small ones.