Upscale restaurants and homeowners usually select drinkware made of glass. It is more elegant than plastic but can break more easily, so be careful when handling the cups. Do not clink the rims together because the cups can break. Casual dining establishments usually choose plastic because it is less expensive and more durable than glass. Plastic cups are also a good option for employee drinks. If you will be serving coffee, be sure to get some ceramic mugs as well.
Regardless of the type of drinkware you choose, restaurants should order one case more than they think they need, because cups will inevitably break or be accidentally thrown away, and they will need immediate replacements.