Elevate Your Entertaining with Crate and Barrel Serving Essentials

So many ways to entertain - how do you choose?

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There's something magical about setting up an elevated buffet table or a polished drink bar! It brings all the elements of a party together. Even for casual gatherings, having reliable, timeless serving essentials makes everything feel special for family and friends.

The best serveware is what you pull out of the cabinet time and time again. These are your go-to items you simply can't do without. Plus, they're flexible enough to serve a variety of needs. Think of them as entertaining investments—pieces you'll cherish for years to come!

However, even if something is an 'investment,' you don’t want to break the bank. Quality matters! You need items that are durable and will last. So, while keeping budget, quality, flexibility, AND style in mind, I turn to Crate and Barrel (one of my absolute favorite retailers) to check all the boxes.

Whether you’ve just moved into your first apartment or need to simplify and modernize, this list features some of the very best entertaining essentials. And all together, they’re less than $100!

Crate and Barrel's Impressions 80-oz Pitcher

You'll reach for this pitcher every time!

A glass pitcher is my number one go-to for entertaining. Sometimes, it’s as simple as having fresh ice water ready for guests. Add some lime, cucumber, and a few mint leaves, and it’s like a mini spa experience! Other times, we serve iced tea with a few slices of lemon for a refreshing summertime option. It’s also perfect for pre-batched or brunch cocktails. If you don’t have a pitcher yet, look no further—this is all you need for effortless entertaining!

The Impressions 80-oz pitcher is generously sized, meaning you won’t have to refill as often. The clear glass makes a statement and allows crafted drinks and cocktails to sparkle. While this pitcher is hand-wash, the wide opening makes clean-up a breeze and keeps it looking crystal-clear longer. This pitcher is as versatile as it is stylish, and at under $15, it’s a must-have!

Crate and Barrel's 2-Piece Chip and Dip Set

This 2-piece chip and dip set will be your go-to for every gathering you host.

There’s so much to love about this 2-piece chip and dip set. First off, it’s dishwasher-, oven-, and microwave-safe (up to 375 degrees), making it easy to prep your dish or appetizer and clean up afterwards. The removable serving bowl is versatile—use it in the middle filled with zesty ranch and surrounded by veggies, alongside chips and warm queso, or outside the bowl to maximize space. Plus, you can use the pieces separately if needed!

Let’s not forget, the clean lines and bright white finish are both contemporary and timeless. It’s a ‘dress it up, dress it down’ serveware set that everyone needs for entertaining.

Crate and Barrel's Rectangular 16.5" x 10.25" Platter

You will never run out of reasons for using these platters!

You’ll never find a time when a platter isn’t necessary for hosting. I’d consider this rectangular 16.5" x 10.25" porcelain platter another essential party item. Whether serving chicken, burgers, or pork chops, it’s the ideal size for a main entree. Presenting prepared hors d'oeuvres? This platter does the trick! Hosting brunch? It’s perfect for scones, croissants, and other pastries.

Also dishwasher-, oven-, and microwave-safe (up to 350 degrees), you can easily keep food warm in the oven or heat it up without worry. Clean-up is a breeze—just toss it in the dishwasher! I find that square or rectangular dishes help save space on a table or kitchen island while creating a cleaner look. I have a feeling that once you own one of these, you’ll be back for more. I guarantee you’ll find hundreds of uses for this dish!

Crate and Barrel's Party of 12 Appetizer Plates

How many ways will you find to use your appetizer plates?

Appetizer plates bring a touch of class to a party while being extremely practical. These 6" x 6" appetizer plates (set of 12) are made of durable porcelain and are perfect for holding cheeses, crackers, and other appetizers. They also shine as dessert plates or for pastries during Sunday brunch. And yes, these too are dishwasher-, oven-, and microwave-safe (up to 350 degrees). I love bringing out my appetizer plates when hosting friends and family!

Thanks to their clean white finish, they complement any theme or look. Whether you’re using fine linens or fun, vibrant table decorations, they pull everything together—from charcuterie and appetizers to dessert and drinks. These appetizer plates are another highly versatile, cleanly-designed hosting option you shouldn’t miss out on.

And the Total Cost...

Drumroll, please: $96.80! So for less than $100, you have four very versatile, modern hosting pieces you’ll use over and over AND over. Believe me, the peace of mind that comes with having staples like these is well worth the investment!

Final Thoughts on Serving Essentials

Having confidence in hosting often comes from simply feeling prepared and having the fundamental items you need. That’s one of my favorite things about Crate and Barrel. They offer so many functional items to make hosting a breeze.

They look fabulous, too!

AND they’re reasonably priced.

How can you go wrong?

Happy shopping!

Crate and Barrel is definitely my go-to for all things entertaining.

Prices published in this post were obtained in Feb 2026 via www.crateandbarrel.com and may be subject to change by Crate and Barrel. Tax varies by state and is not included in the retail prices or the final total above. Always visit their site or your retail location for final pricing and availability.