An improved tableware stand with a cylindrical base providing vertical elevation of an adapter for use to receive and retain tableware, the cylindrical base including a circumferential sidewall adapted for receiving a removable, reversable tableware adapter which securely engages the food service item with misaligned receiving structure. The receiving structure includes a plurality of concentric channels for securely receiving and retaining different sized, dimensioned, configured, or shaped food service items while providing a substantially planar platform elevated from an underlying support surface.