Small Dishes. Plenty to Share.
From olives and dips to warm starters and side dishes, terracotta tapas bowls bring a warm, rustic look to the table. Choosing the right dish means comparing capacity, depth and shape, as well as how many pieces you need.
This guide compares four TheOwnas terracotta designs: small round ramekins, deeper round bowls, mini oval dishes and wider, shallow round dishes.
Compare Sizes, Capacities and Pack Options
External measurements help you plan your table layout and storage. Internal measurements describe the space inside each dish. All capacities below are per individual bowl or dish.
| Design | External Size | Internal Size | Capacity | Pack Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small round ramekin | 12 cm diameter × 4 cm height | 10 cm diameter × 3 cm depth | 200 ml | 3 or 6 pieces |
| Deeper round bowl | 14.5 cm diameter × 5 cm height | 12.5 cm diameter × 4 cm depth | 450 ml | 2 or 4 pieces |
| Mini oval dish | 15.5 × 9.5 × 3 cm | 12 × 8 × 2.5 cm | 200 ml | 3 or 6 pieces |
| Wide shallow round dish | 16 cm diameter × 3.5 cm height | 13.5 cm diameter × 2.5 cm depth | 350 ml | 2 or 4 pieces |
Pack availability may vary. Check the individual product page for current options.
12 cm Round Ramekins: Dips and Smaller Portions
The 12 cm round ramekins have a 200 ml capacity and an internal depth of 3 cm. Their compact size makes them a practical choice for serving hummus, olives, sauces, nuts and small individual portions.
Choose a three-piece pack for a small selection of accompaniments, or six pieces when you want to arrange several different flavours across the table.
14.5 cm Round Bowls: More Depth and Capacity
The 14.5 cm bowls hold 450 ml each, giving them the largest capacity in this comparison. Their 4 cm internal depth provides more space for side salads, vegetables, rice and dishes served with sauce.
Available in packs of two or four, they work well when you want fewer, more generous serving bowls alongside smaller tapas dishes.
Mini Oval Dishes: A Different Shape for the Table
The oval dishes measure 15.5 × 9.5 × 3 cm externally and hold 200 ml each. Their elongated shape offers an alternative to the small round ramekins while keeping the same listed capacity.
Use them for olives, antipasti, dips, small starters or individual desserts. Mixing oval and round dishes can help you arrange a varied spread on a serving board or dining table.
16 cm Shallow Dishes: Wider Food Presentation
The 16 cm round dishes have a 350 ml capacity and an internal depth of 2.5 cm. Their wider, shallower shape gives you more room to spread food across the dish.
Consider them for roasted vegetables, small baked starters and tapas portions where a broad serving area suits the presentation.
A wider dish does not always hold more. The 16 cm dish holds 350 ml, while the deeper 14.5 cm bowl holds 450 ml. Compare both capacity and depth before choosing.
Create a Tapas or Mezze Spread
Choose dishes around the food you plan to serve rather than using the same size for everything.
- For dips and sauces: start with the 200 ml round ramekins or oval dishes.
- For more generous sides: use the deeper 450 ml bowls.
- For spreading food out: choose the 350 ml shallow round dishes.
- For a varied table: combine different shapes and sizes, allowing space for serving spoons and guests to reach each dish.
The number of dishes you need depends on your menu as well as your guest count. Several small dishes can hold different accompaniments, while larger bowls can serve shared sides.
Oven Use and Everyday Care
These four designs are listed as ovenproof terracotta dishes. Follow the instructions supplied with your specific product for preparation, heating and any temperature limits.
Use oven gloves when handling heated dishes and place them on a suitable heat-resistant trivet before serving. Avoid sudden temperature changes, such as adding cold water to a hot dish.
Check the individual product instructions before using a dish on a hob, under a grill, over an open flame, in a microwave or in a dishwasher. Oven suitability alone does not confirm every other use.
For routine care, let the dish cool before cleaning. Use a soft sponge and mild detergent, then dry thoroughly before storing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which bowl has the largest capacity?
The 14.5 cm round bowl holds 450 ml, the largest capacity among the four designs in this guide.
Do the round and oval 200 ml dishes hold the same amount?
Both have a listed capacity of 200 ml. Their shapes and internal dimensions differ, so choose according to the food and presentation you prefer.
Are capacities shown per dish or per pack?
The capacities in this guide are per individual dish. For example, each bowl in a four-piece 450 ml set holds 450 ml.
Can tapas bowls be used for other foods?
Yes. Depending on their size and shape, they can serve dips, sauces, salads, side dishes, starters and individual desserts as well as tapas and mezze.
Choose Your Terracotta Tapas Dishes
Compare dimensions, capacities and pack options to create a serving collection that suits everyday meals and gatherings.