Table-topping styles
If your table-setting routine starts with "fork on the left" and ends with "knife on the right", it might be time for a tweak.
Perth's best eateries share their tips on refreshing your table.
Il Lido Italian Canteen, Cottesloe
Warm and homely but with added drama from its long tables, is how Daniel Goodsell described the interior of seaside cantina he manages, Il Lido Italian Canteen.
It's a style that continues when he's entertaining at home.
"I'm always on the go - cooking, serving and eating at the same time - it's like a storm," he laughed.
"For me, it's about sharing and cooking fresh because whatever's in season will always have the best colours and look good on the table."
After years of working in restaurants, Mr Goodsell likes a detour at home from the crisp white plates restaurants favour.
"I'm a fan of mid-century stoneware - they're not all a traditional size, they're a bit smaller - and there's usually music and, of course, fresh flowers."
The Peasant's Table of The Mezz, Mt Hawthorn
Simple and earthy does the trick when cooking for friends, said Jacki O'Hara, general manager of The Peasant's Table, a modern, rustic venue with statement lighting and beautifully stained timber-clad walls.
"There's usually a wooden centre runner, small glass pinch jars for seasonings, a set of cutlery and a pre-set plate for each guest, and serving tongs," she said. Ms O'Hara utilises her collection of platters to style her table at home.
"I have some wonderful timber, metal and ceramic platters - I use them all the time and they work with any occasion," she said.
The daily meal is a simple, uncluttered affair with crisp white plates, placemats and napkins.
"I don't set the table with flowers but always have condiments and seasonings on it."
The inner-city Trustee Bar and Bistro, Perth
Approachable, loved and lived-in is how Angie Taylor, a co-owner of The Trustee, described her inner-city bar and bistro.
To channel The Trustee's look on your table at home, Ms Taylor said don't be afraid to use dark colours and pieces that are a little different.
"Pieces that are aged and a little eccentric make great talking points," she said.
For a dinner party, Ms Taylor likes a full, luscious look for the table and a glass of champagne to start. "Have candles and foliage, a great tablecloth, a full pre-set of cutlery and make sure it's set and ready to go before your guests arrive," she said.
To make the daily meal at home a little bit special, Ms Taylor said music and candles went a long way. "A decanted bottle of wine is also a nice touch," she said.
