Tableware

Best Tableware & Kitchen Essentials in Denmark: Magasin, Bahne and Top Alternatives

Why your choice of tableware matters

Tableware is more than just plates and bowls — it’s the unsung hero of every meal. The right set can elevate a simple weeknight dinner into a memorable moment or make your morning coffee feel like a small ritual. In Denmark, where design and function often go hand in hand, choosing the right tableware blends aesthetics with practicality. This guide helps you navigate options from popular Danish stores like Magasin and Bahne, and points you to other trusted retailers so you can find pieces that match your lifestyle and budget.

Magasin: Scandinavian style meets variety

Magasin has a reputation for curated, design-forward homeware. Their tableware selection ranges from classic porcelain to playful contemporary pieces. If you like Scandinavian minimalism, Magasin often stocks brands and exclusive designs that lean toward timeless, clean lines without feeling cold.

What you’ll find at Magasin

Magasin’s assortment includes items like Olivenskål and the elegant Blue Fluted Hl Cup Spirit Sauces 24cl, along with pieces for everyday dining such as fluted cups, jugs, and baby sets like the Liewood Vivi Baby Spisesæt. They carry glassware too, such as the Eva Solo Legion Nova wine glasses, so you can coordinate your table from plates to stemware. This makes it easy to shop a cohesive look in one place.

Who should shop there?

If you appreciate curated collections, limited-edition designs, or want a one-stop shop for both contemporary and classic tableware, Magasin is a strong choice. It’s especially good when you want items that feel well-designed and a bit elevated without being fussy.

Bahne: playful patterns and everyday charm

Bahne leans into cheerful, modern designs that brighten up the table. Their range often includes more colorful, whimsical pieces that work wonderfully in homes with kids or anyone who enjoys an eclectic mix. If your style skews toward personality over strict minimalism, Bahne is worth a look.

Standout items to look for

Bahne’s lineup includes items such as the Cat Neko Kawaii Tayo Skål, colorful tumblers like the Tumbler Twist Glass in Green, and fun melamine cups and mugs—perfect for alfresco dining or households with children. They also offer larger statement pieces like the Flood Bowl with a brushed silver finish and playful Moomin-themed alphabet mugs that are both functional and nostalgic.

Best uses for Bahne pieces

Choose Bahne if you want to inject color and character into everyday moments. Their products are great for casual entertaining, picnic sets, or when you want tableware that sparks conversation without the worry of being too delicate.

Other top Danish stores to consider

Magasin and Bahne cover a wide style spectrum, but Denmark has several other excellent retailers where you can find everything from budget-friendly basics to designer collections. Here are a few names worth bookmarking.

Imerco — practical and affordable

Imerco is a go-to for practical, well-priced kitchenware and tableware. Their range includes solid everyday dinner sets, glassware, and useful accessories. If you’re furnishing a new home or looking for durable everyday items, Imerco delivers reliable options that won’t break the bank.

RoyalDesign — design-led and premium

RoyalDesign focuses on higher-end brands and designer collections. If you’re searching for iconic pieces—think high-quality porcelain, statement serving dishes, or designer glassware—RoyalDesign brings international and Scandinavian brands together in one place. Ideal for investments in timeless pieces.

Kähler and other Danish designers

Kähler is a classic Danish ceramics brand known for sculptural forms and textured glazing. Along with names like Stelton and Georg Jensen, these designer makers showcase the unique craftsmanship Denmark is famous for. These brands are perfect if you want tableware that doubles as art.

Materials and how to choose between them

Understanding material makes shopping easier. Each option has pros and cons depending on your needs: durability, aesthetics, or maintenance. Let’s break down the most common materials so you can match them to how you live.

Ceramic and porcelain

Ceramic and porcelain are the backbone of many dinnerware collections. Porcelain tends to be harder, thinner, and more refined, while ceramic covers a broader range of finishes and colors. Both offer great heat retention and can look beautiful on any table. Porcelain is ideal for formal settings and special pieces; ceramic works well for rustic or artisanal looks.

Stoneware

Stoneware is heavier and often has a textured, earthy finish. It’s forgiving of daily wear and looks wonderful in farmhouse or casual settings. If you like your dinnerware to have character and a handcrafted feel, stoneware is a good pick.

Glass and crystal

Glass is the obvious choice for tumblers, carafes, and some plates or serving bowls. Crystal adds sparkle to glassware and is often used for wine glasses and special-occasion stemware. These materials can be delicate, so consider how you’ll use them before investing.

Melamine

Melamine is a durable, lightweight plastic that’s great for outdoor dining and kids. It mimics ceramic finishes but won’t chip as easily. Just avoid using melamine in microwaves and be mindful of visible scratches over time.

How to pick the right set size and composition

Buying tableware isn’t just about design; practical questions matter too. Do you often entertain? Do you need chip-resistant mugs for kids? Here’s how to decide what set composition fits your lifestyle.

Starter sets vs. mix-and-match

Starter sets are convenient and ensure everything matches, but mixing pieces can create a more personal, layered look. If you enjoy variety, pick a neutral base set and add colorful or textured pieces for contrast. This approach also helps when replacing single damaged items.

How many place settings?

Think about your household size and entertaining habits. A set of 4 is fine for small households; 6-8 is ideal if you host often. Having a couple of extra plates or bowls stashed away is smart—they act like spare batteries: quietly lifesaving when needed.

Styling tips: create an inviting table without effort

Good table styling doesn’t require a degree in design. With a few simple tricks, you can make weeknight dinners feel special and impress guests without stressing.

Layering basics

Start with a neutral base plate and layer a smaller plate or bowl on top. Add a contrasting napkin and a single centerpiece item—like a simple vase or a wooden board with cheese. Think of the table like an outfit: start with a basic tee and add one statement accessory.

Mix materials for depth

Combine porcelain plates with wooden or metal serving pieces and glassware. The contrast between matte and glossy surfaces creates a tactile and visual depth that makes the table more interesting.

Care and maintenance: keep your set looking new

Proper care extends the life of your tableware. While many modern pieces are dishwasher-safe, treating them with a little extra love will keep glazes vibrant and delicate finishes intact.

Dishwasher tips and handwashing

Always check manufacturer care labels. Use lower temperature settings for delicate items and avoid overloading the dishwasher to prevent chips. Handwash delicate stemware and any hand-painted or gilded pieces to preserve their finish.

Stain removal and scratch prevention

Stains on light-colored plates can be removed with a paste of baking soda and water—think of it as a gentle exfoliation for your dishes. Use non-abrasive sponges to avoid scratches, and store stacked plates with paper or felt protectors if they’re especially precious.

Budgeting and finding the best deals

You don’t need to spend a fortune to get beautiful and durable tableware. With a little strategy, you can mix investment pieces with affordable finds.

Where to splurge vs. save

Splurge on items you use daily—quality dinner plates and good knives—because they’ll pay off in longevity and performance. Save on accessories like serving platters or seasonal pieces that you won’t use every day. Stores like Magasin and RoyalDesign are good spots for investment pieces, while Imerco and Bahne often have budget-friendly complementary items.

Timing your purchases

Seasonal sales, Black Friday, and post-holiday clearances are prime times to buy higher-end pieces at a discount. If you’re patient, you can build a beautiful set over time rather than buying everything at once.

Sustainable choices and ethical considerations

Sustainability matters more than ever. Many brands and stores in Denmark now offer eco-conscious options, from responsibly sourced materials to recyclable packaging. Choosing durable pieces that last reduces waste compared to disposable options.

What to look for

Seek brands that disclose material sourcing and manufacturing practices. Stoneware and porcelain that are made locally or in low-impact facilities, and melamine alternatives that are BPA-free, are better choices. Buying timeless designs rather than fast-fashion homeware prevents waste and keeps your table looking elegant for years.

Quick comparison: Magasin vs Bahne vs other stores

Here’s a quick mental snapshot to help you decide where to start shopping: Magasin is great for curated, design-forward collections; Bahne is perfect for playful, colorful pieces; Imerco offers budget-friendly practical solutions; RoyalDesign brings premium and designer brands; and Kähler or Stelton provide classic Danish craftsmanship.

Choosing based on your priorities

If your priority is design pedigree, start with RoyalDesign or Magasin. For everyday family-friendly options, Bahne and Imerco are excellent. For gifting or heirloom-quality pieces, Kähler and other Danish designers are the way to go.

Final tips before you buy

Measure storage space before buying large serving dishes, consider stackability if you have limited cupboards, and match goods to your lifestyle—durable for kids, elegant for entertaining. Don’t be afraid to mix brands; the best tablescapes often tell a story made of many different chapters.

Wrap up your shopping list

Start with a core set: dinner plate, side plate, bowl, and a mug or tumbler. Add a couple of specialty items like a pitcher or large serving bowl from places like Magasin or Bahne. Then, fill gaps with affordable yet stylish pieces from Imerco or seasonal buys from Bahne.

Choosing tableware in Denmark is a delightful mix of design, function, and personality. Whether you prefer the curated elegance of Magasin, the cheerful flair of Bahne, or the practical value of stores like Imerco and RoyalDesign, there’s something to fit every table and every budget. Happy shopping—and even happier dining.