The 14 Best Flatware Sets of 2023
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Elevate your place settings with durable yet stylish silverware.
Real Simple / Tina DiRosa
Given that flatware is something we use every day, it deserves more of our attention. A quality flatware set will not only give you years of use, but it will also pull together the look and feel of your dining table, whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or setting the table for a weeknight dinner.
Kristen Pena, principal designer at K Interiors, says top-notch flatware is “absolutely” an essential part of any kitchen—that includes forks, knives, spoons, as well as any other utensils commonly used while cooking and eating. Christine Bova, the vice president of category management in flatware, cutlery, and hydration at Oneida, adds that flatware should “complement your other tableware and bring not only functionality, but personally to the table.”
To find the best flatware sets on the market, we researched many different brands and products, and selected options that fit a range of styles, budgets, and materials. We also received expert insight on what to look for when shopping for flatware.
Best Overall Flatware Set: Pottery Barn Mason Flatware
What Stands Out
The design is versatile enough to work for both casual and formal settings.
What Could Be Improved
The price jumps substantially for the 20- or 42-piece versions.
For a top-quality set of flatware that will last you for years to come, look no further than the Mason Flatware collection from Pottery Barn. This five-piece set is simple yet elegant, made from high-grade 18/10 stainless steel with a brushed finish. Each piece has a curved silhouette with contoured handles, giving them a subtle elegance that’s versatile enough for both casual meals and holiday table settings.
The set comes in three different colors: gunmetal, champagne, and stainless steel. The regular five-piece set comes with a salad fork, a dinner fork, a knife, a soup spoon, and a dessert spoon, but you can also purchase it in a 20-piece or a 42-piece set. You can even pair the set with matching serving utensils and cheese knives for a seamless tablescape. Plus, it’s entirely dishwasher-safe.
Price at time of publish: From $50
Quantity: 5, 20, or 42 | Material: Brushed stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Budget Flatware Set: Gourmet Settings Strand Flatware
What Stands Out
All 20 pieces are sleek and shiny.
What Could Be Improved
The knives aren’t super sharp.
If you’re looking to totally replace your current flatware but don’t want to spend a fortune on a whole new set, we’ve found the perfect option for you. This 20-piece set from Gourmet Settings costs just $40, the equivalent of only $2 apiece. It contains four five-piece place settings, each of which includes a dinner fork, salad fork, tablespoon, teaspoon, and dinner knife—all made from sturdy stainless steel with a polished mirror finish.
These pieces have a classic design that can be used for both casual and formal settings, with sleek handles and a shiny veneer. The silver-like luster of each utensil is clean, bright, and meant to stay that way for a long time. Keep in mind, however, that the utensils are a bit smaller and more lightweight than that of some other silverware sets out there, and the knife isn’t as sharp as some home chefs might want. But if your priority is quantity and comfort, you’ll undoubtedly still be satisfied.
Price at time of publish: $40
Quantity: 20 | Material: Polished stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Splurge Flatware Set: Year & Day Four-Person Flatware Settings
What Stands Out
You can buy the individual pieces a la carte.
What Could Be Improved
There are no options for smaller sets.
Yes, this set is higher-priced than many others on our list, but if you can make the cost work, you won’t regret your purchase. This collection comes with four individual settings, each of which boasts two forks, two spoons, and a knife (you can also buy the individual pieces a la carte, starting at $11 per piece). The set comes in polished steel, matte steel, matte black, and matte gold, but as said, you can mix and match if you would rather have a multitude of styles in your kitchen drawer.
Each piece in this set is hand-finished and durable, meant to last for years without needing replacement or losing its shine. That said, if you’re not looking to spend very much on flatware or don’t need 20 pieces, this set is not going to be the right fit for you. But if you are willing to splurge a little and want a larger set, then we believe you won’t be disappointed with these pretty and reliable pieces.
Price at time of publish: From $225
Quantity: 20 | Material: Polished and matte stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Related: The 14 Best Places to Buy Tableware Online
Best Gold Flatware Set: Lenox Portola Gold 20-Piece Flatware Set
What Stands Out
The pieces all have gorgeous, delicate beading at the base.
What Could Be Improved
They’re not the most durable silverware on the market.
Are you not a big fan of traditional silver flatware? Then consider opting for gold pieces, instead, like this stunning set from Lenox. The ample 20-piece set features four salad forks, four dinner forks, four larger spoons, four smaller spoons, and four knives, all of which are crafted in a glowing satin hue that will look elegant and attractive in any kitchen.
Each piece in this set has a flared handle and delicate beading at the base, making it stand out from other flatware sets, in addition to the eye-catching gold coloring. It’s important to note that this is a slightly more expensive set than many others that offer similar styles and quantity, but if you’re able to swing it, we think you’ll be pleased to have added such a beautiful set of flatware to your home. Just make sure that the pieces don’t clash too much with the rest of your more traditional silver flatware, unless that’s actually the look you have in mind or you’re planning on replacing other utensils with gold versions in time.
Price at time of publish: $150
Quantity: 20 | Material: Satin stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Black Flatware Set: Fortessa Tableware Arezzo Flatware
What Stands Out
The set is fingerprint-resistant.
What Could Be Improved
The logo is stamped on each piece.
Although silver and gold can be beautiful colors for flatware, don’t sleep on black, because there are some gorgeous black pieces out there such as this Fortessa Arezzo set. It’s made from stainless steel but with a jet-black finish, giving it a unique and eye-catching quality. If you’re not into black, though, you can get the set in mirror stainless steel, brushed stainless steel, or even brushed gold, instead.
But about that black—this five-piece set has an appealingly modern design, with clean, broad lines and squared corners. It comes with one place setting that includes two forks, two spoons, and a knife. Or you can purchase the 20-piece set for four place settings.
This set is fingerprint-resistant, so the pieces stay looking fresh for a while, and it falls right in the middle of the flatware price range. Just keep in mind that if the rest of your flatware is regular silver, this set might stand out and not mesh well, but if that’s the effect you’re going for, then enjoy these notable pieces.
Price at time of publish: From $65
Quantity: 5 or 20 | Material: Brushed stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Vintage Flatware Set: Food52 Vintage Silver-Plated Eclectic Flatware
What Stands Out
They have a timeless, elegant look and high-quality stainless steel construction.
What Could Be Improved
The knives need to be hand-washed.
Some people tend to gravitate towards vintage and vintage-inspired items in their homes, and if that sounds a lot like you, you’ll enjoy taking a peek at this unique silverware set from Food52’s Vintage Shop. This flatware is sold in a five-piece set, a 20-piece set, or a four-piece set of each utensil type. No two pieces are alike—each piece features a unique detailing that’s hard to find on modern utensils.
These pieces are all silver-plated, with the knives sporting stainless steel blades. They’re rust-resistant and durable, and despite their older origin, timelessly elegant in both their look and feel. Of course, due to these utensils’ very vintage look, they’re definitely not going to be the right choice for everyone, especially those who love all things modern when it comes to kitchen decor (if so, see the next set on our list!). Plus, the knives need to be hand-washed, not put in the dishwasher, and the silverware has a lightweight feel overall. But if you love old-school design, then you’ll be glad you ordered this intriguing stand-out set.
Price at time of publish: From $40
Quantity: 2, 4, 5, or 20 | Material: Silver-plated stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes except for knives
Related: The 7 Best Silver Polishes
Best Modern Flatware Set: Atlas Mirror 20-Piece Stainless Steel Flatware Set
What Stands Out
They come in eight striking colors.
What Could Be Improved
They’re not super durable, leading the color to fade after a while.
For people whose design taste tends to be on the modern side, make sure to check out this super cool 20-piece set available at AllModern. Although the silhouette of each utensil is fairly standard, the set’s sleek finish, square look, and wide array of color options make it a great modern choice.
Every piece in this set, which includes four dinner forks, four salad forks, four tablespoons, four knives, and four teaspoons, is made from stainless steel and features a rust-resistant matte finish. The sophisticated design of the utensils means that you can use them for both casual and formal occasions, and you can choose from eight elegant colors: matte silver, black, copper, gold, matte black, matte copper, matte gold, and silver. Each piece features a balanced, easy-to-hold weight, too.
This is a very inexpensive set of flatware, and it might not end up being quite as durable as other pricier models. On the upside, it’s all dishwasher safe, and you’ll get plenty of use out of the pieces thanks to their versatility. Plus, they’ll look great in your modern-styled home, no matter which color you pick.
Price at time of publish: $35
Quantity: 20 | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Colorful Flatware Set: Mepra Fantasia Flatware
What Stands Out
The larger set options come with serving utensils, too.
What Could Be Improved
The lighter colors can stain after time.
No, flatware isn’t limited to just silver, gold, or black. This set from Mepra, for example, comes in a variety of vibrant colors, ranging from forest green to cobalt blue to desert mix (aka orange, off-white, yellow, and more)—18 options in total. They’re made from stainless steel and have a sturdy resin handle, with glass fibers built in to keep the colors looking bright no matter how often they’re washed.
This is a five-piece set, featuring two forks, a knife, and a spoon, although it’s available in larger sets going all the way up to 60 pieces. (Those bigger options also come with extra serving utensils, too, like salad forks and teaspoons). It’s on the pricier end of the flatware on our list, but the high quality and beautiful colors make it worth the cost. Just keep in mind that if you opt for lighter colors (like vanilla, oatmeal, and sky blue), they might stain if they’re exposed to or soaked in coffee, tomato sauce, and other easily-staining liquids for long periods of time.
Price at time of publish: From $100
Quantity: 5, 20, 30, 40, or 60 | Material: Polished stainless steel with resin handle | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Wood Flatware Set: Coronado Flatware Sets
What Stands Out
This versatile set can be used for a variety of occasions.
What Could Be Improved
They’re not dishwasher-safe and require a bit of extra care.
This gorgeous cutlery from West Elm features classic stainless steel blades with striking birchwood handles that come in two colors, charcoal or redwood. The set includes the usual five pieces, although if you’re willing to spend more, you can splurge on the 20-piece set that’s enough for four place settings.
Each piece in this set is easy to clean (although not dishwasher-safe, as is unfortunately the case for all wood utensils) and has a strikingly sleek, rustic look. Because of the material, you won’t have to worry about these pieces scratching your pots or other utensils, and their beautiful design means they stand out on your dining spread. They’re also lightweight, easy to grip, and as versatile as it gets—you can use this set for many different types of meals and occasions.
Keep in mind that this set is on the higher end as far as prices go. Also, take note that these items shouldn’t be soaked for too long in water or any other liquid or you risk damaging the wood.
Price at time of publish: From $98
Quantity: 5 | Material: Stainless steel, birchwood | Dishwasher Safe: No
Best Stylish Flatware Set: Gaze Two-Tone Flatware 20-Piece Place Setting
What Stands Out
They’re dishwasher safe and lightweight.
What Could Be Improved
This set is more expensive than most, though it does come with 20 pieces.
If you want your flatware to be functional and stylish, opt for this beautiful 20-piece set. It comes with five place settings’ worth of silverware and has a striking two-tone design, with gold-coated blades and jet-black handles.
The utensils are made from durable stainless steel and are dishwasher safe, saving you from cleaning everything by hand after each use. The pieces are fairly lightweight, too, and small in size, with thin handles that won’t take up much room in your silverware drawer. We also like the gold and black color scheme, which is unique but won’t clash with your remaining utensils.
This is definitely a pricer flatware set than most, but if you can swing the cost, you’ll be glad you invested in such gorgeous utensils—especially because they’re the type of pieces that can be used for fancy and casual meals.
Price at time of publish: $200
Quantity: 20 | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Ergonomic Flatware Set: David Shaw Silverware Isla Stainless Steel Flatware Set
What Stands Out
The pieces are heavy and long-lasting.
What Could Be Improved
There’s only one color option.
A great set of flatware should fit right into the contour of your hand, and this option from David Shaw Silverware is a great example. The ergonomic set comes with five place settings of silverware, all made from stainless steel with a sleek silver mirror finish. The designs are unique and sculptural, featuring lifted necks on the fork, curves on the knives, and nearly square tops to the spoons.
This heavy and durable set is also rust-resistant so it can stay looking fresh for years on end. You can wash each piece in the dishwasher or by hand, and the silver color will blend in nicely with your serving utensils and other kitchen products.
If you love the unique look of these pieces and want to keep costs fairly low (this is a budget-friendly option), then you’ll be happy with this set.
Price at time of publish: $100
Quantity: 20 | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Heirloom Flatware Set: Studio77Vintage Mismatched Vintage Flatware Set
What Stands Out
You can set up to 12 place settings.
What Could Be Improved
The pieces might have some scuffs.
If you prefer a vintage aesthetic over something super modern, opt for this unique flatware set. The mid-century-inspired set comes with 40 pieces (enough for eight place settings), but if you want an even bigger selection, you can choose options for 10 or 12 place settings too.
It comes mismatched, meaning you get many different styles, and you’ll find that no two pieces will be alike—which is exactly what makes this heirloom set so playful. Each piece is made from stainless steel and has a cool, old-school look that will undoubtedly stand out on your dining room table.
Keep in mind that because everything is used, some pieces might have scuffs and may not be in mint condition. Still, the brand polishes each piece beforehand so they are in good shape and ready to use.
Price at time of publish: From $125
Quantity: 40 | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Slim Flatware Set: CB2 20-Piece Rush Brushed Silver Flatware Set
What Stands Out
There are five colors that can suit any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved
The gold color may fade if not hand-washed properly.
If you want to save some room in your silverware drawer, check out this beautiful set from CB2, which has 20 pieces designed with slim matte handles and shiny mirror-finish heads, all made from forged stainless steel.
This flatware set comes in five colors: blackened, brushed gold, brushed silver, shiny silver, and brushed black—so whether you like a classic look for your flatware or something more unique, there’s an option for you. Regardless of which color you choose, the set is versatile enough to be used for any occasion, casual or formal.
Cost-wise, this is a moderately priced set, and the relatively lightweight but durable pieces should last you a good long while. Just don’t be shocked if you opt for the gold shade and find the hue fading after a few years, especially if you’ve opted for dishwashing over handwashing. While you can put this flatware in the dishwasher, taking the time and effort to wash the pieces by hand (especially for gold) will ensure that they don’t lose their color so quickly.
Price at time of publish: $80
Quantity: 20 | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Hammered Flatware Set: Hudson Essentials 40-Piece Hammered Stainless Steel Silverware
What Stands Out
They’re very comfortable to hold.
What Could Be Improved
It only comes in one color.
Hammered flatware has a distinct and attractive look yet still manages to not feel too different from the norm. We like this pick from Hudson Essentials, which comes with 40 pieces (for eight settings) all made from stainless steel with hammering and a smooth mirror finish on the handles.
The hammered handles aren’t just stylish—they’re also highly functional, because of how comfortable and sturdy they are to hold. As for the heads of these pieces, they all have a classic curved style that easily blends in with the rest of your cutlery. The whole set is dishwasher safe and designed to last for years, and the price is very reasonable considering how many pieces you get.
The flatware only comes in one color, and if you don’t dry the pieces immediately after washing, it may develop rust. But if you’re on top of washing, this is a lovely, sturdy set of flatware you can put to use time and time again.
Price at time of publish: $90
Quantity: 40 | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Final Verdict
Our top pick is the Pottery Barn Mason Flatware because of its elegant silhouette, high-quality material, reasonable price point, and versatility. We think this set would work well in a variety of kitchens, thanks to its classic design. For a more budget-friendly option, the Gourmet Settings Strand Flatware has a timeless polished mirror finish and comes out to just $2 per piece.
How to Shop for Flatware Sets Like a Pro
Material and Grade
Most flatware is made from stainless steel, as it’s durable, attractive, and often mid-to-low priced. “There are two main materials in flatware: 18/0 stainless steel and 18/10 stainless steel,” says Christine Bova, the vice president of category management of flatware, cutlery, and hydration at Oneida.
18/0 refers to 18 percent chrome and 0 percent nickel, and is “more prominent in the market and value oriented,” according to Bova. 18/10 stainless steel, which refers to 18 percent chrome and 10 percent nickel, “is more durable, brighter in color, has increased rust resistance and is more suitable for detailed design work due to the addition of nickel,” but is usually pricier.
Finish
When choosing between finishes for flatware, think about what overall look you like. The common “mirror” finish is highly-polished and shiny, while the “satin” or “brushed” finish tends to be more muted and less intense. “Many people refer to finishing in reference to color; PVD is the color application for flatware, which includes colors like gold, black and rainbow,” says Bova. “Plating is also used in higher end flatware to achieve a look with actual gold, again it comes with a price.”
Quantity
A traditional place setting calls for five utensils—a salad fork, a dinner fork, a knife, a soup spoon, and a dessert spoon. Thus, you’ll find that flatware sets are most commonly sold in quantities of five, 20, or 40 pieces, so which one you pick depends on how many people will be using it, as well as how many other pieces of flatware you already own.
Style
There are many different styles of flatware to peruse from, and it all comes down to your personal taste. Some flatware is all about clean, traditional lines, while others have vintage-inspired designs or modern looks that feature stripes and patterns. If you like color, too, make sure to pick a set that comes in bright hues so you can feel cheered every time you use the pieces.
Maintenance
Most stainless steel flatware is machine washable, making it easier to maintain. You should wash each piece “as soon as possible after each meal,” according to Bova. “Do not let it soak or leave unwashed overnight.” She adds that if you put them in the dishwasher, “load loosely, avoid harsh detergents, and dry by hand.”
If you have flatware made of wood or another delicate material, then be prepared to handwash your flatware regularly with hot water and mild soap after each use and dry them immediately afterwards, per Bova.
Related: The 10 Best Utensil Organizers to Store All of Your Kitchen Tools and Flatware
Questions You Might Ask
What is the difference between flatware and silverware?
“Flatware is cutlery or eating utensils like a fork and a knife,” explains interior designer Kristen Pena. “Silverware refers to the metal something is made with.” Despite this distinction, Bova notes that the two terms “are used interchangeably in the market today.”
How many flatware sets should you have?
Two is plenty, according to Pena, since that means one set for everyday use and another set for fancier occasions. “Unless you collect vintage,” that is, she adds, because “then you never can have too many sets of fun mix-and-match pieces!”
Many people follow a “less is more” approach and invest in just one high-quality set of flatware, but if they do buy a second set, they lean “towards fashion over formal,” according to Bova.
What are the best flatware brands?
Everyone’s preferences are different, of course, but Pena says she currently loves Mepra (see our best colorful flatware set) “for all the styles and customization options.” Bova also praises Mepra for its “great quality and detailing.”
How can you tell if a flatware set is good quality?
To determine if your stainless steel flatware is high-quality, look for the grade, which can be 18/0 or 18/10. 18/10 stainless steel tends to be higher quality because it’s more durable and rust-resistant, so it can last longer than flatware made from 18/0 stainless steel.
You can also look at whether the flatware was forged (aka it was individually cut out of a heated piece of stainless steel) or stamped (aka it was cut like a stamp out of a non-heated piece). Due to the heating process, forged flatware tends to be stronger and more durable than its counterpart.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Rachel Simon, a writer for Better Homes & Gardens, Real Simple, The New York Times, and many other publications. She frequently covers kitchen products and researched a variety of flatware for this story, including speaking with Kristen Pena, principal designer at K Interiors, and Christine Bova, the vice president of category management of flatware, cutlery, and hydration at Oneida.
Related: The 14 Best Places to Buy Tableware Online
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