Simply Oriental

We all love Chinese food at our house. I also love Japanese food and my son is a big Thai food fan. If we do Japanese or Thai we always order out. Most of the time when we do Chinese, we order out. Sometimes, though, I venture into making a Chinese meal in my own kitchen. Actually my husband makes excellent pork fried rice and egg drop soup and I like to try my hand at a few simple dishes. While I admit there are plenty of times when we plop down in the family room with a good movie, Chinese food cartons in hand, there are other times when its nice to eat at the table surrounded by a little Oriental ambiance. This table setting is so simple it can be set up in minutes and makes even takeout seem just a little bit special.

Here is the table set for three. We're trying to learn to use chopsticks so I have no other flatware on the table......of course there are always standbys close at hand. We at least start out the meal with chopsticks :0

The large black dinner plates are originally from Target. I say originally because I picked up four complete place settings while out Thrifting one day for only $5. I use them now in so many combinations. The black and white salad plate is from my wedding china, Coventry pattern Laurent. In this particular instance I'm using them for a mandarin chicken salad that I've recently learned to make. The oval mini-dishes are from a kitchen store and for this meal are used for sweet and sour sauce to go with the eggrolls. Colorful and reusable chopsticks round out the setting.

Aren't these glass bamboo cups and teapot adorable? Since we always have hot tea with these meals these work perfectly......from Target also, but I don't think they are available anymore.

The centerpiece here is from Joanne Fabrics Store, bought at the New Years Sale last year. I currently have this on a sidetable in another part of my home as part of a more permanent arrangement, but it is just perfect for this type of tablescape. The jumbo black candle gives off a nice little light and seems more appropriate on this table than thin tapers. Bamboo placemats and black napkins are from Bed Bath and Beyond. I consider these two items staples because they are so versatile.

I love setting a pretty table, but for everyday meals I appreciate something that can be put on the table in a hurry, don't you?

This is my first time participating in Tablescape Thursday so thanks for stopping by. Be sure to drop by to see Susan and the rest of the lovely Tabletops at http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/ I know you won't be disappointed.