Why Every Holiday Table Needs a Gravy Boat: A Touch of Elegance

David in Food & Drink Aug 14 • 15 min read

In today’s fast-paced world, where casual meals dominate, the once-prized gravy boat may seem like a relic of the past. Yet, this seemingly modest piece of tableware carries with it a sense of tradition, elegance, and ceremony that can transform ordinary meals into special occasions.

Gravy boats, while not a necessity in daily dining, offer a unique way to elevate your table setting, especially during holidays and celebrations. This guide will delve into why a gravy boat is essential tableware and explore eleven beautiful options that bring both functionality and style to your dining experience.

The Role of the Gravy Boat in Modern Dining

A Touch of Tradition in a Modern World

Gravy boats have fallen out of favor as most meals no longer involve the traditional accompaniment of gravy. However, during holidays or special gatherings, their presence on the table instantly marks the occasion as different and more festive. Using a gravy boat signals that the meal is not just another dinner but a time to celebrate and savor the moment.

The Elegant Pour

One of the distinct pleasures of using a gravy boat is the controlled, delicate pour it offers. Unlike serving gravy directly from a pan or bowl, a gravy boat allows for neat ribbons of gravy to be drizzled over your meal. This method of serving not only feels fancier but also prevents the overwhelming blanket of gravy that can drown out the flavors of the dish itself.

Why Gravy Boats Make Celebrations Special

A Symbol of Effort and Care

In an era where convenience often trumps tradition, the use of a gravy boat is a reminder that joy requires effort. A beautifully set table, complete with items not usually used in everyday dining, like a gravy boat, speaks volumes about the care and thought put into the meal. This effort contributes to the overall enjoyment and sense of occasion, making the dining experience feel more special.

Beyond Function: Gravy Boats as Decor

While gravy boats serve a specific purpose, they can also double as decorative pieces. Whether filled with candy, herbs, or simply left as a centerpiece, a gravy boat adds a touch of elegance to your table. However, they don’t need to be repurposed to justify their presence. Using a special serving piece just a few times a year, solely dedicated to pouring gravy, becomes part of the ceremony and the joy of the occasion.

Choosing the Right Gravy Boat for Your Table

Gravy boats come in a wide range of styles, materials, and price points, allowing you to find one that perfectly suits your dining aesthetic and needs. Below, we explore eleven gravy boats that combine form and function, ensuring your next holiday meal is served with style.

1. Pottery Barn Emma Beaded Stoneware Gravy Boat - $29

Features: Made from durable stoneware, this gravy boat features a curved lip for easy pouring and a charming beaded design around the edge. It is dishwasher, oven, and microwave safe, offering both beauty and practicality.
Why We Love It: The classic design and versatility of this gravy boat make it a great addition to any table setting. Its durability ensures it will last for many celebrations to come.
Price: $29

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2. Crate and Barrel Gravy Boat with Saucer - $15

Features: This porcelain gravy boat comes with a matching saucer, adding a layer of sophistication to your table. It is also dishwasher, oven, and microwave safe, making it easy to use and clean.
Why We Love It: The included saucer not only enhances the presentation but also catches any drips, keeping your tablecloth clean. It’s an elegant and affordable option.
Price: $15

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3. Match Pewter Gravy Boat - $235

Features: Crafted from pewter, this gravy boat exudes timeless elegance with its sleek design. It requires hand washing due to its material but is a statement piece worth the extra care.
Why We Love It: The luxurious feel and antique look of pewter make this gravy boat a standout on any table. It’s perfect for those who appreciate classic, high-end tableware.
Price: $235

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4. Williams Sonoma Vintage Etched Gravy Boat - $30

Features: Made from glass, this gravy boat features a beautifully etched floral design. It is dishwasher, oven, and microwave safe, combining beauty with ease of use.
Why We Love It: The delicate etching adds a vintage charm, making it a lovely choice for traditional or romantic table settings.
Price: $30

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5. Anthropologie Old Havana Gravy Boat - $48

Features: This stoneware gravy boat is handmade in Portugal and features a stamped design, offering a unique and artisanal touch to your table. It is also dishwasher safe.
Why We Love It: The handmade quality and intricate design make this gravy boat a piece of art as well as a functional serving vessel.
Price: $48

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6. Williams Sonoma Sculptural Pumpkin Gravy Boat - $15

Features: Shaped like a pumpkin, this stoneware gravy boat is perfect for fall and Thanksgiving celebrations. It has the largest capacity at 27oz and is dishwasher safe.
Why We Love It: The whimsical design adds a seasonal touch to your table, making it a fun and festive choice for holiday meals.
Price: $15

7. Fiesta 18.5-Ounce Sauceboat - $36

Features: This ceramic sauceboat is available in vivid colors, adding a pop of color to your table. It comes with a 5-year chip warranty and is dishwasher safe.
Why We Love It: The bold colors and durability make it a vibrant and reliable choice for both casual and formal dining.
Price: $36

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8. Lyngby Porcelain Porcelain China Gravy Boat - $80

Features: Made from porcelain, this gravy boat features a geometric pattern and a taller shape, giving it a modern and stylish look.
Why We Love It: The contemporary design makes it a perfect choice for modern table settings, offering a sleek and sophisticated option.
Price: $80

9. Portmeirion Sophie Conran White Mini Sauce Jug and Ladle Set - $34

Features: This porcelain set includes a matching jug and ladle, providing a cohesive and elegant way to serve gravy. It is dishwasher and freezer safe.
Why We Love It: The matching ladle adds a touch of refinement and makes serving easy and precise, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Price: $34

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10. Pillivuyt Porcelain Gravy Boat with Warming Base - $100

Features: This porcelain gravy boat comes with a warming base that uses a candle to keep gravy warm throughout the meal. It is dishwasher safe.
Why We Love It: The warming base ensures that your gravy stays at the perfect temperature, making it an excellent choice for extended meals or buffets.
Price: $100

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11. Rorence Stainless Steel Double Insulated Gravy Boat - $19

Features: Made from stainless steel, this gravy boat is double insulated to keep gravy warm for up to an hour. It is also dishwasher safe, making it both functional and easy to clean.
Why We Love It: The practicality of stainless steel combined with the insulation makes this gravy boat perfect for those who prioritize function without sacrificing style.
Price: $19

The Final Pour

While a gravy boat may not be a necessity in everyday dining, it undoubtedly adds a layer of elegance and ceremony to special occasions. Whether you choose a modern design or a more traditional piece, a gravy boat serves as a symbol of the care and effort that go into creating a memorable meal.

From the controlled pour that keeps your dish looking pristine to the joy of using a special serving piece, the gravy boat plays a unique role in elevating the dining experience.

Moreover, the wide range of options available—from affordable pieces to luxury items—ensures that there is a gravy boat for every taste and budget. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of pewter, the vivid colors of ceramic, or the modern lines of porcelain, each gravy boat brings its own charm to the table.

In the end, investing in a gravy boat is about more than just serving gravy; it’s about creating moments of joy, tradition, and celebration. So, the next time you’re planning a holiday meal or a special dinner, consider adding a gravy boat to your table setting. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference, turning an ordinary meal into a cherished memory.