Flatware sets
Selecting a flatware set for your home can quickly turn from a simple item on your to-do list into a never-ending search for utensils. There are so many options available that it may be difficult to choose which flatware set is best for you.
To start, consider a small range of variables like the number of place settings you need to buy, your budget, the longevity of each flatware set and your personal style. These main criteria will help you narrow down your search and find a set of utensils that suits your needs.
Questions to ask before choosing a flatware set
How many guests do you regularly serve?
Count the number of people who normally eat around your table for a reasonable estimate of how many place settings you need to buy.
Here are some general guidelines for estimating the size of your next flatware set:
20- to 38-piece flatware sets serve four
40- to 58-piece flatware sets serve eight
60+ piece flatware sets serve 12
How often do you plan on using this flatware set?
If this is your first or replacement flatware set, you may be planning to use these utensils every day for as long as they stay in good condition. In that case, pay attention to how each set wears over time, whether they may rust and if they’re dishwasher-safe. You want them to hold up to the rigor of everyday use.
On the other hand, if this flatware set is an extra set you’re buying for special occasions, keep that in mind when browsing. You may be willing to invest in sets that aren’t dishwasher-safe or are a little more delicate since you’ll be cleaning and caring for them less frequently.
What’s your budget?
The price of flatware goes hand in hand with how many place settings you’re planning to purchase. Generally, you can buy most stainless steel flatware sets for $15-$100.
At the lower end, $15-$30 can get you a simple set of stainless steel flatware to serve four. You can find a range of stainless steel sets for $30-$50. For $50-$100, you can get good quality stainless steel sets. Top-of-the-line sets range from $100-$500 for name brand or designer options.
Best flatware sets
Best of the best flatware set
Lenox Portola 65-Piece Flatware Set: available at Amazon, Macy’s and Wayfair
Our take: The most comprehensive set, this 65-piece flatware set offers enough for a 12-person place setting as well as a complete hostess set.
What we like: The simple beaded finish offers a professional feel, and the stainless steel is resistant to rust and tarnishing.
What we dislike: After use, some report discoloration in a few of the hostess set pieces.
Best bang for your buck flatware set
Pfaltzgraff Garland Frost 53-Piece Flatware Set: available at Amazon and Wayfair
Our take: This set of flatware serves eight in high-end style without hurting your wallet.
What we like: Stainless steel can hold up against daily wear and tear. It includes a five-piece hostess set and features patterned handles that make the utensils easy to grip. The entire flatware set is also dishwasher-safe.
What we dislike: Some report damage or rust when washed in the dishwasher.
Best European-sized flatware set
J.A. Henckels International Alcea 65-Piece Flatware Set: available at Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, Kohl’s, Macy’s and Wayfair
Our take: This impressive European-sized flatware set offers a classy dining experience for both formal dinners and casual meals.
What we like: It includes 12 place settings and a hostess set, perfect for hosting dinner parties or family meals. The serrated knives can cut through steak, and the stainless steel set is dishwasher-safe.
What we dislike: The brand name is engraved on the visible side of the knives, and the larger European size may require an extra-large drawer organizer.
Best simple flatware set
Oneida Mooncrest 65-Piece Flatware Set: available at Amazon
Our take: A simple styled finish makes this flatware set uniquely versatile for any dinner table.
What we like: The pieces are highly reflective with simple lines and curves, appealing to people with minimal, contemporary taste. The set is dishwasher-safe and comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
What we dislike: The material used is a lower-grade stainless steel, which may be more susceptible to rusting and pitting through everyday use.
Best restaurant-quality flatware set
Mikasa Regent Bead 65-Piece Flatware Set: available at Amazon, Kohl’s and Macy’s
Our take: The 65-piece set serves a table setting of 12. The thick handles and delicate beading honor a classic restaurant dining experience.
What we like: The high-quality set is backed by a limited lifetime warranty. It comes with five serving pieces. The high-shine finish and hefty weight lend an air of elegance and prestige to the table setting.
What we dislike: The tight nooks and crannies can be hard to clean, leaving residue on some pieces.
Best colorful flatware set
Vandbao 20-Piece Rainbow Flatware Set: available at Amazon
Our take: The flashy ombre catches every light, letting this rainbow flatware set be the star of the meal. This colorful set of utensils is a fantastic specialty item.
What we like: The set of 20 pieces serves four, making this set an excellent gift for weddings, housewarming parties or holidays. The titanium rainbow coating is dishwasher-safe and the stainless steel set is nickel-free.
What we dislike: Some say the teaspoons and tablespoons are a bit larger than average, and some report the colors are not consistent across all pieces.
Best portable flatware set
Devico 8-Piece Single-Serve Flatware Set: available at Amazon
Our take: This single-serve flatware set offers a high-quality dining experience on the go.
What we like: The set includes a stainless steel knife, fork, spoon and chopsticks, as well as reusable straws. It comes with a convenient carrying case and pipe cleaner. It’s a timeless set with simple curves and a mirror finish.
What we dislike: Some report the carrying case is thinner than expected, and the spoon is a tablespoon rather than a teaspoon.
Katy Palmer is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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