Modern Style Utensils For Your Table
When it comes to choosing flatware for your table, there are a lot of things to keep in mind. The size, style and weight of the pieces should all feel comfortable in your hand and balanced on your plate. And, of course, your utensils should be functional as well. They should be able to slice, stir and lift with ease. Luckily, there are plenty of modern styles that tick all these boxes.
From sleek pleated silverware to affectionately engraved utensils, these dynamic designs channel an artfully modern aesthetic and make your next meal that much more special. And with all the smart design details that go into these pieces — from tubular handles that add balance to stainless steel fork tines that are as thin as a piece of string — you might just start to wonder how you ever lived without them.
The flatware on this list is a great place to start if you’re shopping for something that feels decidedly modern but still plays well with more traditional tablescapes. It’s made from lightweight 18/10 stainless steel and has the kind of thoughtful transitions — see those brushed handles that transition into the shiny heads, for example — that elevate the overall aesthetic. And, at just over $40 per set, it’s a solid value.
If you’re looking for a more substantial flatware option, this one from Fortessa is a workhorse that’s suitable for everyday use and many formal occasions. Its stainless steel composition includes 18% chromium, which protects the pieces from corrosion and helps them maintain their shine. Plus, it’s crafted from solid silver, so you know that your pieces will hold up to repeated use and regular cleaning.
Another option is this Mepra set, which has a similar construction process to the Fortessa set but includes more serving pieces for an entire place setting. Its mirrored finish is elegant, and the pieces are heavy enough to be considered substantial in both style and function. It’s also backed by Mepra’s limited-lifetime warranty, so you can be sure that these durable and stylish utensils will stand the test of time.
While you’re browsing these sets, note that there are two different types of utensils: cold ones used for cutting and removing food from the plate before eating and hot ones like spoons used to stir or mix during cooking processes that involve heat. For that reason, it’s important to have a variety of utensils in your kitchen so that you can switch them out depending on the task at hand.
When it comes to using your utensils, you should always follow the recommended guidelines for handling your plates and other utensils to help avoid cross-contamination. And, of course, always wash your utensils after each use to ensure that they stay sanitary and clean. For more on these best practices, check out this article from Eater Chicago.