Home » Misc » Silverware best quality

Silverware best quality


The 9 Best Flatware and Silverware Sets of 2022

Tested & Approved

The Lenox Portola 65-Piece Flatware Set is our tester's best overall pick, offering a design so versatile, it can be used for both casual and formal dining, plus it sports enough place settings for 12 people. If you're looking for a budget pick, the LIANYU 20-Piece Silverware Flatware Cutlery Set has a simple design and is durable and easy to clean.

Choosing a flatware or silverware set can be tricky. On top of choosing between the variety of flatware designs and types of steel on the market, you're also tasked with figuring out aesthetics, budget, and the number of place settings you will need.

To help you pick the best flatware or silverware set for your home, we tested them out side-by-side and evaluated each on its design, durability, grip, weight, and overall value. Many soups, salads, and entrees (such as braised chicken) were spooned, forked, and knifed to make sure these flatware and silverware sets are truly the best.

Whether you're in search of a durable collection for everyday use or a high-end set for special occasions, we've researched and tested the best flatware and silverware for you to dine in style.

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Wayfair View On Walmart

What We Like

What We Don't Like

Lenox Portola 65-Piece Stainless Steel Flatware Set Review

Who else recommends it? The Strategist and Bob Vila both picked the Lenox Portola 65-Piece Flatware Set.

What do buyers say? 3,300+ Wayfair reviewers rated this product 4.8 stars.

This Lenox flatware set is made of 18/10 stainless steel, which means it has an 18 percent chrome content and a 10 percent nickel content. Nickel is what keeps stainless steel shiny meal after meal and dishwasher run after dishwasher run. (Yep, this set is dishwasher safe.)

The set comes with enough five-piece settings for 12 people, plus five serving utensils. The pieces are ergonomically designed to be comfortable to hold while eating, and the beaded channel design at the base is subtle. Our product reviewer appreciates the flatware's high-quality feel and minimalist but beautiful detailing. She also awarded the set points for being dishwasher safe and tarnish-resistant, but notes the importance of keeping the utensils dry to prevent rust.

Price at time of publish: $138

The Spruce Eats / Elizabeth Rago

What's Included: (12) 5-piece settings with a salad fork, dinner fork, knife, tablespoon, and teaspoon; (1) serving spoon, (1) serving fork, (1) pierced serving spoon, (1) butter knife, and (1) sugar spoon

What Our Testers Say

"This set is dishwasher safe and tarnish-resistant, but the utensils do require a little manual care. " — Elizabeth Rago, Product Tester

Courtesy of Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart

What We Like

What We Don't Like

LIANYU Flatware Set Review

Whether you’re just starting out or want extra flatware for an upcoming dinner, you can’t go wrong with this affordable set. You'll get enough pieces for four people to each have a salad fork, a dinner fork, a soup spoon, a teaspoon, and a dinner knife. The set comes in five different colors, in case you're looking for something with a little more personality than basic stainless steel. Our home tester appreciated how compact this whole set is—they don't take up a lot of space in the kitchen drawer or can simply be placed in a glass on the counter.

While reviewers do note that the stainless steel utensils are lightweight, many also mention that the pieces are durable and hold up well after multiple rounds in the dishwasher. No dishwasher? The simple design makes these easy and quick to hand wash. Be careful when you do so—this knife is sharper than one might expect from a butter knife. At-home testing found that the knives "have a serrated edge, so they work well for cutting things like ham, turkey, or vegetables."

Price at time of publish: $16

The Spruce Eats / Donna Currie

What's Included: (4) 5-piece settings with a salad fork, dinner fork, knife, soup spoon, and a teaspoon

What Our Testers Say

"The fork tines are pointy enough to stab into that cherry tomato on the salad, and they slide easily into meats and vegetables, so they’re easy to use." — Donna Currie, Product Tester

Courtesy of Mepra

View On Amazon View On Bed Bath & Beyond View On Verishop.com

What We Like

What We Don't Like

Mepra is known for its stylish Italian-made flatware featuring sleek, simple lines. The Stiria series is a minimalist, modern collection that has wonderful balance in the hand and a high-luster finish. Available in both 20- and 24-piece sets, it will add a touch of contemporary luxury to any tablescape.

Made from 18/10 stainless steel, these pieces are lightweight, but also very sturdy and balanced. The tines on the forks are narrow, yet functional—nice for spearing salad greens or holding meat in place while cutting with the included serrated knives. Our tester loved the gentle curves of the soup and teaspoon that make them super comfortable for eating and the long, slender handles that feel very elegant to hold.

These high-quality pieces are very easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher. Any spots could be wiped away with a dish towel. Mepra backs this set with a limited lifetime warranty, so expect that you'll be able to use it for a very long time.

Price at time of publish: $155

What's Included: Either (4) 5-piece settings with a salad fork, dinner fork, knife, soup spoon, and a teaspoon or (6) 4-piece settings with a dinner fork, knife, soup spoon, and teaspoon

What Our Testers Say

"Overall, these pieces feel very elegant in the hand. " — Bernadette Machard de Gramont, Product Tester

Courtesy of Wayfair

View On Wayfair

What We Like

What We Don't Like

This place setting combines contemporary finishes with a classic silhouette—a versatile mix of new and old. Available in both a matte black or antique gold finish, these attractive pieces will look at home alongside sleek modern dinnerware as well as more traditional table settings.

Each set comes with 20 pieces for a four-person service, including dinner and salad forks, tablespoons, teaspoons, and a dinner knife. According to our tester, these are quite substantial in weight and feel balanced and comfortable to hold, though the knife edge is smooth and therefore not quite sharp enough to cut through less tender meats. As for the fork, the tines are fairly thick, but still spear well without feeling awkward. The spoons feel nice in the hand and are nice for soup and sauces.

Made of 18/10 stainless steel, this set carries a 25-year limited warranty provided by the manufacturer. Our tester noted that the gold finish showed some signs of wear after a run through the dishwasher, so hand washing (and drying right away or else they will spot) will be the best way to preserve the finish on these pieces. The manufacturer does not recommend putting these in the dishwasher, anyway.

Price at time of publish: $95

The Spruce Eats / Vicky Wasik

What's Included: (4) 5-piece settings with a salad fork, dinner fork, knife, tablespoon, and teaspoon

What Our Testers Say

"The only potential downside is that the knife doesn’t have any serration, so it feels a bit dull for cutting proteins like steak or chicken unless they're very tender. " — Bernadette Machard de Gramont, Product Tester

Courtesy of Cambridge

View On Amazon View On Belk.com

What We Like

What We Don't Like

The sleek satin finish on this flatware set by Cambridge will add a dramatic accent to your table setting. This set includes four five-piece settings featuring a salad fork, dinner fork, knife, soup spoon, and teaspoon, each made of 18/0 stainless steel and specially treated to achieve the flat black finish.

Our tester noted that the pieces are lightweight, but not flimsy, and feel comfortable in the hand. The knife is serrated to aid in cutting through pieces of meat, and the soup spoon has an easy shape that holds a generous amount of liquid. The fork tines come to a gentle point that pierces food easily, giving you great control over whatever you're eating, from salad to fish and everything between.

While you can toss these utensils in the dishwasher, you'll want to avoid citrus-scented detergents, and when hand washing, don't use a scouring pad or metal polish as it may damage the finish. After running the set through the dishwasher, some spots were left behind but they are easily removed with a polishing cloth. Stubborn hard water spots can be removed with a bit of white vinegar and a warm water rinse, according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Price at time of publish: $160

The Spruce Eats / Vicky Wasik

What's Included: (4) 5-piece settings with a salad fork, dinner fork, knife, soup spoon, and teaspoon

What Our Testers Say

"These would be great for a themed table." — Bernadette Machard de Gramont, Product Tester

Courtesy of Amazon.

View On Amazon View On Bed Bath & Beyond View On Target

What We Like

What We Don't Like

Knork's 210 Original Collection Cutlery Is Ergonomic and Contemporary

Knork flatware's lauded design was the invention of the brand’s founder Michael D. Miller who, while struggling to eat a slice of pizza with a fork, was inspired to create a fork that’s more like a pizza slicer. He went on to design the Knork’s signature fork (part knife-part fork) with beveled outer tines that can be used to eat left- or right-handed and are sharp enough to cut many foods.

This set comes with enough utensils to set a full five-piece serving for four people. They are dishwasher safe. Our product tester likes that each utensil is ergonomically designed with noticeably balanced weight. Plus, the utensils feature a wide, flat finger platform for comfort and are designed to fit the contours of your hand. Each piece is hand-forged according to a 26-step process and is made of 18/10 stainless steel.

Price at time of publish: $80

The Spruce Eats / Elizabeth Rago

What's Included: (4) 5-piece settings with a salad fork, dinner fork, knife, tablespoon, and teaspoon

What Our Testers Say

"Knork’s branding seamlessly blends into the flatware’s design. ... You won’t find any bold brand etchings on your knife handles." — Elizabeth Rago, Product Tester

Courtesy of Overstock

View On Amazon View On Walmart

What We Like

What We Don't Like

Oneida Mooncrest 45-Piece Flatware Set Review

If your style is no-fuss, no-muss, you’ll appreciate the sleek and simple lines of this flatware. It's 18/0, which means it has 18 percent chrome to prevent rusting and wear and tear over time. Reviewers note that the flatware feels sturdy, so you won't have to worry about it warping with continued use. The set comes with a few serving pieces and enough forks, knives, and spoons for up to eight dinner settings.

Take care to dry these pieces carefully as our at-home testing found that rust formed when the knives were left damp too long. Our product tester also highlighted how easy to use these utensils were—their soft curves and balanced weight make them well-suited for all ages to handle.

Price at time of publish: $78

The Spruce Eats / Elizabeth Rago 

What's Included: (8) 5-piece settings with a salad fork, dinner fork, knife, soup spoon, and teaspoon; (1) serving spoon, (1) serving fork, (1) slotted serving spoon, (1) butter knife, and (1) sugar spoon

What Our Testers Say

"If you’re simply looking for an affordable starter collection, the Oneida Mooncrest 45-Piece Flatware Set has much to offer. The set checks many boxes, from affordability to design." — Elizabeth Rago, Product Tester

Courtesy of Williams-Sonoma

View On Williams-Sonoma

What We Like

What We Don't Like

Robert Welch Westbury Mirror Flatware Set Review

This timeless and elegant flatware is for anyone who prefers a minimalist approach to their tablescape. As some reviewers note, this pattern is sure to feel as contemporary and classic 10 years from now as it will when you buy it—and the quality means you'll still be able to use it every day. Its longevity is thanks to its 18/10 stainless steel and quality forging process. Our at-home tester found that the utensils' mirror-polished shine held up to everyday use. With a simple cloth wipedown, their brilliance was restored.

This flatware is available in sets of five pieces, 20 pieces, 42 pieces, and 50 pieces, so you can get the exact number of settings you need for your home. The larger setting sizes also include steak knives and serving pieces so that everything on your table matches.

Price at time of publish: $50

 The Spruce Eats / Sage McHugh

What's Included: (1, 4, or 8) 5-piece settings with a salad fork, dinner fork, knife, soup spoon, and teaspoon; with (1) serving spoon, (1) serving fork

What Our Testers Say

"This flatware set is perfect for anyone that prefers a more classic look to their tablescape, and we really appreciated the versatility of the set. " — Sage McHugh, Product Tester

Courtesy of Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

What We Don't Like

Hommaly Portable Flatware Set Review

Those who care about the environment likely cringe when they have to eat their takeout salad with a disposable plastic fork, but who wants to carry around their regular flatware with them everywhere they go? Enter this portable, reusable stainless steel set. It comes with everything you could need to enjoy lunch at your desk—even a set of chopsticks for those days when you order sushi—plus two metal straws.

Best of all, the utensils come packaged in a waterproof and washable bag that’s as easy to clean as the utensils. Several reviewers give this set high marks because it's available in a few different, fun colors, including rainbow, adding personality to their desk lunches. Our at-home product tester appreciated how sleek the packaging was, allowing for easy transportation and storage. In addition, the carrying case's interior features aluminum lining for quick cleanup.

Price at time of publish: $8

The Spruce Eats / Renu Dhar

What's Included: (1) 8-piece setting with a fork, knife, spoon, chopsticks, cleaning brush, bent metal straw, straight metal straw, and carrying case

What Our Testers Say

"A regular dishwashing cycle got the knife, spoon, fork, and chopsticks shining again." — Renu Dhar, Product Tester

Final Verdict

We chose the Lenox Portola 65-Piece Flatware Set for the top spot because of its sleek design that can work for both casual and fine dining. Plus, considering how many utensils are included, it's reasonably priced. For an affordable pick, we recommend the LIANYU 20-Piece Silverware Flatware Cutlery Set.

How We Tested

We sent 10 flatware and silverware sets to our experienced home chefs and product testers, who used each knife, spoon, and fork to eat various soups, salads, and entrees, such as braised chicken. Each flatware and silverware set was rated on design, durability, grip, weight, and overall value. Our testers then offered additional insights on each flatware and silverware set's strengths and weaknesses.

How We Test Products

 The Spruce Eats / Sage McHugh

What to Look for When Buying Flatware

By Marshall Bright

Material 

Silver: Flatware is often called “silverware” for good reason: Traditionally, it was silver. The rich showed off their wealth with elaborate table settings (hence the oyster fork) while the poorer classes made do with pewter or even wood cutlery. The invention of stainless steel—which is resistant to rust and corrosion—in the early 1900s changed all that. These days, you can find stainless steel in the finest restaurants and homes, but sterling silver flatware is still very much around. A single flatware setting can run from around $50 to hundreds of dollars. That means a full table setting of sterling silver flatware can easily be thousands of dollars. They also require a lot of upkeep and polishing.

Silver-plated: Silver-plated flatware is another option, but it can feel like a “worst of both worlds” scenario. Sterling silver flatware remains valuable because the material is valuable; silver-plated flatware has no such intrinsic value. You’ll have to care for it like it was sterling silver but without any opportunity for resale. If you like the antique look of sterling silver flatware but don’t have the thousands to spend, partial sets or individual pieces can often be purchased at antique stores for a fraction of the price. Even secondhand sterling silver, if all the pieces are included, can be incredibly expensive.  

Other plated silverware includes titanium, gold, and copper. Again, this is about looks rather than quality, so most will have a stainless steel core. Plated flatware can chip and wear over time and requires greater care than stainless steel.

Stainless steel: Stainless steel flatware is able to have the shine of silverware at a fraction of the price. Today, our flatware still owes something to those more formal silver settings of yore; you can find designs on even the most humble flatware handles that are meant to hearken back to actual silverware. 

While stainless steel makes bright, shiny cutlery more affordable, it is also far easier to care for than silver. This type of flatware can just be thrown in the dishwasher, dried off, and put away, over and over again.

Stainless Steel Grades

You can’t just grab any flatware that boasts the stainless steel logo, though. Good stainless steel will show a grade on the packaging or product page that looks like a fraction: usually 18/10, 18/8, and 18/0. 18/10 means the flatware is 18 percent chromium and 10 percent nickel, and so on. 18/10 flatware is the highest-quality: It will feel a bit more weighted in the hand, and the 10 percent nickel gives it more shine and more protection from corrosion. If no grade is listed, it’s best to assume it is of a lower grade, or may not even be stainless steel at all. In general, it’s easy to find a wide variety of styles and designs in 18/10 stainless steel, but lower grades are still a good option if you need to save money. 

 The Spruce Eats / Sage McHugh

Finish

Typically, higher-quality stainless steel with an 18/10 grade is going to be shinier because of the higher quantity of nickel. The bright shine of 18/10 stainless steel is usually called a “mirror finish.” Lower nickel amounts typically mean a satin finish, sometimes called a “butler finish” because it has the look of hand-polished silver. But there are exceptions to keep your eye out for. You can get 18/10 flatware with a “tumbled finish," which reduces shine and sometimes even gives it a textured look. Tumbled finishes can give your flatware an heirloom, hand-me-down quality, or a more hand-forged look. 

Stamped vs. Forged

Today, most flatware you’ll find is stamped, meaning it’s been stamped from a larger piece of steel. Forged flatware, which is forged by hand, tends to be more expensive. Traditionally, forged flatware has been seen as the longer-lasting option, but technology in stamped flatware has continued to improve. The main difference between a high-quality forged flatware set and a high-quality stamped set is going to be weight: Forged flatware is heavier. Whether that’s a positive or a negative may come down to taste, but odds are you are used to using stamped silverware for your everyday use.  

Quantity 

Most flatware sets come with five pieces for table settings: dinner knife, dinner fork, salad fork, tablespoon, and teaspoon, which should be more than enough for day-to-day use. Some larger sets will also include steak knives and serving utensils for those who like everything to match. But unless you anticipate regularly needing an oyster fork or dessert spoon, you don’t need to worry about investing in a giant collection of flatware.

Box sets: Settings are typically sold in a single pack (one of each) and sets of four, eight, 12, and so on. A flatware set with five settings will, for example, have 20 pieces. Also known as box sets, these packs are also commonly available in 45- and 65-piece sets (both come with the addition of serving utensils, with the former containing enough place settings for eight and the latter serving 12). 

How big a set you buy is totally personal and can be informed by your kitchen size, number of housemates or family members, and how often you run the dishwasher. Flatware stores flat (of course), so it’s better to err on the side of a slightly larger number of settings than a slightly smaller one—there’s nothing worse than reaching for a cereal spoon and finding only forks. 

Open stock: If you’re worried about getting too few, you can also check to see if the flatware set is sold in individual settings or individual cutlery. This is also referred to as open stock because retailers keep them in stock so that you can always buy more forks or settings later as the need arises. If the flatware only comes in a 20-piece set, you may just have to buy an entire second set one day as your needs grow.

Design 

Traditionally embellished flatware tends to have a more classic feel to it to mimic silverware. More modern sets typically pare down details with a more streamlined appearance: a straight, thin handle with no major elements. Because we are so used to design elements in our flatware, these more modern sets are often, paradoxically, more unique and interesting than a more ornate set. Many contemporary options also straddle these two worlds: Subtle shaping at the end of the handle, for example, will give it a traditional feel without other elements. 

Your choice comes down purely to taste: Both traditional and modern styles are made from stainless steel. The only major consideration is if you want stainless steel flatware in a different color. Black and gold flatware have become increasingly popular in recent years, largely because they're such a striking contrast to the bright silver cutlery we use almost everywhere, every day. These sets are typically made from stainless steel with another color added on top. While some are nearly as easy to care for as regular stainless steel, others may require more careful treatment to keep the coating from peeling off.  

The Spruce Eats / Elizabeth Rago

Sometimes you’ll see handles made from another material, like wood or plastic. This is reminiscent of a tradition even older than silverware: handles for knives made from materials like bone. The look can be impressive but has some drawbacks: A separate handle can loosen over time, especially if you’re tossing it in the dishwasher. Less expensive flatware is going to show wear and tear along the handle the quickest, and grime and food can settle into cracks. More expensive flatware with resin or wood handles will age better but tend to be expensive and require more care than a simpler, all-stainless steel piece. 

Ease of Use 

You probably don’t think much about the forks and knives you use every day, but shopping for a new set brings new considerations: Do you want a heavier, high-quality 18/10 stainless steel, or something lighter? Is the handle comfortable? While most basic sets are ergonomically designed to be comfortably held and used, fancier and more design-forward sets may offer more to think about: Is a giant soup spoon, as striking as it is on your setting, something you (or your kids) will want to reach for? Do you prefer utensils with skinny stems, or perhaps longer fork tines for more European-style dining?

Price

Even though most flatware sets are stainless steel, there's still a considerable price range. Design and stainless steel grades have the biggest effects on price, with 18/10 being the highest quality and most expensive. But even an inexpensive set, with proper care, can last a long time. A basic set of stainless steel flatware can run as low as $20 for a set of six table settings and go up from there; unique finishes and designs can cause the price to jump to several hundred dollars for a table setting for six. But you can still pick up an investment-worthy setting for six for around $60 to $100. 

The Spruce Eats / Elizabeth Rago

Pricier silverware is rarely sold in open stock: You’ll have to purchase additional full settings if you realize you need more spoons or forks. But because of that, open stock tends to be affordable—usually around $2 apiece. 

Types of Flatware Sets

Place Settings

Flatware is typically sold in settings with between three to five pieces per person. A typical table setting will usually have at least one fork, one spoon, and one knife. Five-piece settings, which are the most common, have a dinner and salad fork, a table spoon and teaspoon, and a dinner knife. Place settings can be sold individually or in sets of four, six, or eight. 

Disposable

Disposable flatware is ubiquitous these days and offers one advantage: convenience. The typical takeout set isn’t great at piercing, cutting, or ladling food. Then, once it’s done, the plastic goes into the trash and into a landfill. There are eco-friendly alternatives, however, like biodegradable birchwood utensils.

Reusable/Portable 

These days, the eco-conscious can find alternatives to disposable utensils that can still travel with you. Portable sets can be made of lightweight stainless steel, bamboo, or reusable plastic. If you want to get a travel set, look for one that comes with a carrying case; you’re more likely to actually take it with you if it’s easy and convenient to do so. 

Brands

Lenox

Lenox is perhaps best known for its china, and for good reason: the brand has made dinnerware for the White House and the Met Gala. Lenox flatware is just as high-quality, and a set is definitely an investment. But don’t be fooled by its storied past; these days, Lenox also sells unfussy, modern flatware and dinnerware. 

The Spruce Eats / Elizabeth Rago

Oneida

Like Lenox, American flatware company Oneida has well over a century of experience, but its backstory is fairly unique. It was originally founded as a way to fund a utopian community in Oneida, New York. Started in the 1840s, stories you’ll read from the commune sound like they’re out of the 1960s. The commune eventually dissolved, but the silverware production remained and eventually switched to stainless steel. You’ll never look at an Oneida fork the same way again.

Maintenance

There are a few simple rules for taking care of stainless steel, and most are pretty intuitive. Most stainless steel flatware can be hand-washed or placed in a dishwasher. Avoid steel wool or steel brushes, since those can nick the surface and cause corrosion or even rusting. If food dries on your silverware and can’t be gently scrubbed away, let it soak for a bit or try the more abrasive side of a soft sponge. If you have a color-plated flatware set, like matte black or gold, you’ll want to be extra careful about abrasive cleaners or sponges, as it could strip the finish. 

The Spruce Eats / Elizabeth Rago

“Stainless steel” can also feel like a misnomer because it can show some stains: namely, water stains from hard (mineral-rich) water. If your stainless steel starts to lose its luster, and to reduce mineral spotting, try drying it as soon as it’s out of the sink or dishwasher. Finally, don’t use bleach, which can stain stainless steel.

FAQs

What is in a 45-piece flatware set? 

Typically a 45-piece flatware set includes service for eight people, made up of a salad fork, dinner fork, soup spoon, teaspoon, and knife. Additionally, it includes five serving utensils including a serving spoon, slotted serving spoon, meat fork, butter knife, and sugar spoon.  

What does a five-piece flatware set include? 

A five-piece flatware set is typically a single service of flatware that includes a salad fork, dinner fork, soup spoon, teaspoon, and knife. 

How many flatware sets do you need? 

Generally speaking, you want to have double the amount of flatware settings as there are people in your household for everyday use. For example, a two-person household should have a five-piece setting for four. That way you’ve always got a set to use while another set is in the dishwasher. 

If you plan to entertain regularly, consider buying a larger set that includes serving utensils, as well as enough settings for guests. Buying a set that offers additional settings individually is convenient if you need to grow or replace parts of your set down the road. 

How do you set flatware on a table? 

You may have noticed in costume dramas on tv, your cousin’s fancy wedding, or at a high-end restaurant that flatware is laid out in a certain arrangement. You don’t need a full course in formal dining etiquette to set a nice table. A few points to remember include:

Why Trust The Spruce Eats?

Jenny Kellerhals is a food and beverage writer who lives and cooks in a tiny NYC kitchen, where only the highest-quality tools make the cut. She's into the flatware sets with more contemporary finishes, like the Gourmet Settings Birch Black Silverware Set (view at Wayfair) that can transition from a casual breakfast to a more formal-style dinner party.

This roundup was updated by Bernadette Machard de Gramont, an L.A.-based writer who specializes in global food and wine content. After a two-year stint at Williams-Sonoma Headquarters in San Francisco, she now researches and tests a variety of cookware, bakeware, and wine tools, and interviews field experts for their insight. She personally tested four flatware and silverware sets on this list.

12 Best Silverware Brands, Ranked

Irina Simkina/Shutterstock

By Jessica L. Pavia/Updated: Sept. 14, 2022 11:25 pm EST

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

We use it every single day. Your kitchen utensils are tools of necessity. So why should silverware be boring or brittle? Forks, spoons, knives — cutlery should always balance between a utilitarian purpose and aesthetic possibilities. If you use it three times a day (and often more), then your flatware should match your style and needs. Or maybe you want to splurge on a specific collection perfect for setting dinner party tables on those special occasions. Whatever your need, we're here to help.

We've compiled a list of 12 silverware brands, ranked best to least (though not necessarily worst). These are top-of-the-line kits, after all. Within these collections, there should be something for everyone. There's flatware made specifically for style, with less of a focus on the actual build, as well as high-quality flatware made of 18/10 stainless steel (more on that later) with a classic look to its design. Another consideration we took when ranking these brands was whether the pieces were truly dishwasher-safe. Though there are ways to prevent silverware from tarnishing, whether you'll have to carefully hand wash your new cutlery (or maybe even polish your silverware) is an important concern when spending money on something that will be used often. That said, these are our deep cuts for the best silverware sets on the market.

12. Fjord

Museum of Modern Art

Mid-century modern design has been at an all-time high for the past few years. It seems like everyone is on the hunt for hefty, well-made furniture pieces from the 50s and 60s to decorate their home. If you're looking for a smaller, though not much easier, way of bringing that postwar flair into your home (with a side of German inspiration), now's the time to seek out Dansk Fjord Flatware.

This set of silverware was the first product introduced by the Dansk company in 1954. This exact set can even be found on display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City — talk about functional art!

Oh boy, are these gorgeous ... but discontinued. Thankfully, they are still easily found on Etsy and eBay. You want to look for stainless steel silverware with teak base accents (a popular wood used in most mid-century designs). While the wooden detail is what makes this set so unique, it also means Dansk Fjord flatware must be hand washed. Combine that with this being a canceled line, and you get a low ranking, despite high praise for style and function.

11. HAY

HAY

Did you know the iconic and beloved Danish furniture company HAY also produces cutlery? Well, now you do. The set was conceived by the Swiss design studio BIG-GAME, which was founded by three men in 2004 and remains a small design team of five to seven. The line is called "Sunday," and you can purchase forks, knives, and spoons in sets of five.

Some of you may be asking yourself, "What is this iconic and beloved Danish furniture company?" Well, you maybe wouldn't recognize the name HAY just by looking at it, but you might be familiar with the organization crates they became Instagram famous for. The crates come in bright, pastel colors and fold up for easy storage when not in use. In essence, HAY is all about making the utilitarian playful and stylish.

Which flows into the flatware offered by HAY. Made of stainless steel, the Sunday forks, spoons, and knives feature a grooved art deco handle design. They are dishwasher safe, but it's recommended to stay away from citrus-scented detergents to keep them from tarnishing.

10. HARBORII

Amazon

These are stylish, sturdy, and trendy. Harborii only carries one style of cutlery, but the design comes in either silver, black, or rose gold. The Harborii set is sleek with long handles and modern tops. However, these pieces of cutlery should simply not be the only set you keep in-house. Because of the design, the spoon cannot hold as much, the knife cannot cut as much, and the fork cannot carry as much. But dang, do they look good. Just everything is a bit truncated in order to make the utensils appear so slim and sleek.

Harborii silverware can also be hard to find and seem to only be for sale on Amazon. Fortunately, however, the reviews are mostly positive, with 78% of the 1,028 global ratings falling in the five-star camp; and they're pretty consistent: "No issues with rust (had it for a couple of months so far) and pleased that's they came in stainless steel. They are a little on the light side, which I actually prefer over heavy-weight utensils, but thus can bend."

9. Marco Almond

Amazon

If you've been watching Selena + Chef, then you know how often her chrome-tastic blue knife set is complimented. The people (and the chefs) are obsessed. Selena's knives are made by a designer called Marco Almond, whose full set of kitchen knives and kitchen cooking utensil sets can be purchased on Amazon.

However, it seems that they don't carry flatware sets — yet, at least. For similar-looking cutlery, stay on Amazon and check out these by the brand WYT. The Selena + Chef-inspired set comes in 20-pieces in total, all mirror polished and dishwasher safe. The reviews are ultimately what you'd expect from a more playful option: the cutlery is cute and beautiful and fun in the kitchen, but the kit rusts after a few months.

If you're wondering what knife to buy and looking for an iridescent set of blades or cooking utensils, definitely go with the Marco Almond ones. However, if cutlery is your focus (since it is for this review), then make peace with the fact that sometimes you have a flatware set specifically for special occasions. But what's more special than these?

8. Fortessa

Fortessa

Fortessa is another one of those classic silverware brands. The company was started in 1993 by two brothers. What started as a small business importing and selling high-quality dinnerware out of their parent's garage has transformed into a well-respected company. You can now find Fortessa at Saks Fifth Avenue, Pottery Barn, Williams and Sonoma, and more. The company offers a variety of flatware options, but its classic set would be the Grand City Place Setting.

In particular, reviews under the Fortessa Lucca Flatware Set prove this collection is sturdy and beautiful. The comments almost unanimously herald the set for being perfect for everyday use while keeping a feel of luxury. One such comment from reviewers at Neiman Marcus says: "Looking for my first set of adult silverware, and I am SO obsessed with this set. Heavy, love the hammered silver detailing. It's perfect, and I'll know I'll have this set for years to come."

7. West Elm

West Elm

Can silverware be sexy? Because silverware from West Elm is sexy. Take one glance over on the site, and you'll find plenty of options to get the pulse pumping. There's an elevated sophistication to its style, each featuring long and svelte handles. Think of the flatware equivalent to that one restaurant lamp that got its own New York Times feature.

You'll find that West Elm really spans the gambit in quality as well. Some sets are 18/0 stainless steel with a satin finish (like the ones pictured above), while others are 18/10, and there are even some knives that are 13/0. Overall, that's what's so lovely about these West Elm collections: You can get a luxury look and experience for an affordable price. 

However, if you go exploring for reviews on the web, there are a few blog posts from regular buyers complaining about tarnish appearing after a few months of consistent use. One such review has almost ten assessments expressing the same issue. So consider West Elm flatware sets for those special occasion tablescapes, but not for everyday use.

6. Matilda Goad

Matilda Goad

We are ranking Matilda Goad sets so low simply because there are not many reviews on the actual make and quality of her silverware sets. However, knowing Matilda Goad and the products her interior design company, MG & Co. designs out of London, you can be relatively sure these pieces are well-made products. What we can explicitly discuss is the aesthetic of various flatware lines. Goad's products — whether lampshades or frames — are always colorful and whimsical.

There are three cutlery set offerings from Goad: reds, blues, and tortoise. The first two come in sets of 12, and the color names simply denote the hue each will exist in. What makes the Goad sets so unique is that each piece of the collection is a different color that, when combined, forms a glorious tapestry. As for the tortoise option, that's a six-piece set — which might seem a bit small for the price but is gloriously trendy and utterly pleasing with a baby blue accent color on end. Unique flatware is a new kitchen trend for a reason, after all.

Each piece of silverware is stainless steel and either acrylic or resin, depending on the version. The utensils are dishwasher safe, however, MG & Co. recommends handwashing so as to maintain the high-gloss finish. 

5. CB2

CB2

It's impossible to ignore: there are trends in silverware too. Gold sets really started popping into the picture around 2016 (as can be seen in this piece from POPSUGAR), and suddenly the dinner service was everywhere. We get it. The gold adds something new and different to the classic silver set. It adds a touch of luxury to an otherwise utterly utilitarian purpose.

So if you're looking for something a bit more lavish that can keep your kitchen on trend without breaking the bank, CB2 brand flatware is a great choice. Is it the best quality? No. But can CB2 be consistently used, thoroughly washed, and still look nice? Yes. If the gold flatware sets are still calling your name, try the 20-piece champagne gold option. CB2 also offers funky, skinny silverware that looks ready for a modern art exhibit. Some are flat, some ombre from one color to stainless silver, and some are simply moody, matte-finished, or sophisticatedly toned down. CB2 tableware is perfect for kitchens that leave themselves open to the changing tides.

4. Oneida

Kohl's

This is not the fanciest. The sets won't turn heads at a dinner party or make your partner's friend from work jealous. Instead, Oneida provides basic, run-of-the-mill, reliable flatware sets. Steadfast and sturdy, lightweight and affordable — walk into the average home, and these are likely what you'll find.

And still, the reviews abound. On just one Kohl's listing, there are 59 five-star reviews. "Nice heavy flatware;" "Excellent quality and value!;" "This is a simple yet elegant everyday design." If that isn't enough, you'll find just as many on JCPenny's website, at Bed Bath & Beyond, or on Amazon.

Oneida silverware is crafted from high-quality 18/0 stainless steel, which, admittedly, is the least expensive stainless steel. However, utensils don't always need to be made with 18/10 (stronger steel), especially when not put under high heat or required to lift much heavier than different cuts of steak. Perhaps what matters the most here is that Oneidas are dishwasher safe and tarnish resistant. Is there anything more, really, that you could ask for in silverware?

3. Liberty Tabletop

Liberty Tabletop

Not only are flatware sets by Liberty Tabletop vintage inspired and elegant, but the sets are also maderight in Sherrill, New York. Accordingly to the company's website, Liberty Tabletop is the only flatware manufactured in the USA. The flatware business is family-owned and focused on maintaining community through every step of its production process — from the tools used in the factory to legal and marketing hires.

But what about the silverware? Like the Gingko International brand above, Liberty also uses high-quality, 18/10 stainless steel to make its utensils. The sets are classic and refined, with some featuring more detail along the handle and others completely smooth stainless steel. An especially unique design is its set called "Weave," which features, as you might guess, a woven design on the utensil's bottom half. You can, and should, expect the prices to be higher, but remember where you're choosing to buy from. And most importantly, silverware pieces from Liberty are dishwasher safe.

2. Gingko International

Overstock

If your style is a little less modern and contemporary, look to Ginkgo International for some great classic offerings. The company's sets range from traditional bistro style to hammered silver stems, all coming in at an understandable price for the quality and build. Its Lafayette 42-Piece Service for 8 has 29 five-star reviews at Home Depot, and of the 652 reviews under the Ginkgo Bright Blue Stainless Steel Flatware Place Setting listing on Amazon, 80% are five stars.

Gingko International has been making flatware since 1977, with its latest design using high-quality 18/10 stainless steel. Steel quality makes the utensils especially sturdy and resistant to rust since the steel contains the highest amount of nickel.

According to one review on Amazon, the Gingko forks and spoons are also accessible for folks who may typically have difficulty holding silverware: "These forks and spoons are perfect for my son, who has cerebral palsy. He has difficulty with the regular items, but he is able to feed himself with ease using these forks and spoons."

1. Jean Dubost

Williams Sonoma

If you are looking for luxurious flatware that makes any dinner service an event, these are the sets for you. Jean Dubost's flatware is a cut above the rest and made entirely in Laguiole, France. Each dinner service is made in France and comes in a variety of colors, from olive wood handles to red iridescent. One thing each set has in common is stainless steel, which gives the forks, spoons, and knives a bit of heft.

You probably have come across Laguiole silverware at posh dinners but may not have known. The tell-tale sign that you've got a Laguiole in your hand is the silver bee that graces each utensil right where the neck meets the handle. Just be careful when purchasing, as many sites claim to sell the real deal but instead carry knockoffs. For instance, the reviews under a Laguiole listing on Amazon all read with similar strife: "This isn't the premium Laguiole line of flatware, the price indicates that, and the thinness of the metal confirms it." Your best bet is to buy it directly from the source.

Recommended

Silverware 925… What other types of silver exist?

Silverware 925… What other types of silver exist? 09/14/2021 00:00

Silverware 925… What other silver samples are there?

When buying silver jewelry, the first recommendation is always to evaluate the presence of a sample mark on the product, since it is the test that formally is an indicator of the quality of the product. True, most ordinary buyers do not have a very clear idea of ​​\u200b\u200bwhat these or those numbers on the sample actually mean, and therefore they do not always understand what quality the silverware is acquiring. nine0005

But this is still important, because it is not surprising to buy a set of silverware for a seemingly ridiculous price for such a level of products, and then find that the quality of this silver, alas, leaves much to be desired. That is why we will tell you what silver tests exist, and what silver is intended for, depending on its quality.

The highest quality and most common today are silver items 925th test. This is due to the fact that this sample is considered a kind of standard. Such silver is also called sterling silver and means that the alloy is 92.5 percent silver and only seven and a half is accounted for by another alloy metal (it can be cadmium, copper, nickel or aluminum). This ratio is optimal, since it allows you to maximize the aesthetic and functional qualities of silver, while maintaining a sufficient level of strength.

Today silver 9The 25th test is used both for making jewelry and for the production of silverware.

What about other samples? some readers will exclaim. After all, it cannot be that they do not exist at all! Of course it is. There are many samples of silver. Moreover, the above 925 is not the highest. The 960th test is recognized as such, but such silver is used almost exclusively for the manufacture of filigree products and in electronics.

If we talk about silverware, then 760 or 800 silver can be used for its production. These assays are considered to be low, and silver pieces therefore have a slightly yellowish tint. In addition, you will have to clean dishes made of such silver much more often, since the oxidation process in air is much faster. nine0005

You can also find utensils of the 875th sample. And this is not uncommon. For cutlery, which should be quite durable, it is quite suitable.

Other articles:

What does the hallmark on silverware mean?

Silverware and accessories: no secondary!

Diversity of the assortment of silverware in Moscow

Silverware as a feature of the era

Silverware. Past and thoughts. nine0008

Silverware - impeccable style

Silverware - tradition


Silverware composition

Daily
9:00-21:00

0 item(s) - 0.00 rub.

Cart is empty!

Login by phone

You will be sent a confirmation code

'; smspass += '

'; smspass += '

'; smspass += '

'; smspass += ''; smspass += '

'; smspass += '

  • Silver
  • Composition of silverware

2019-03-17 16:07:17