Details That Count — 8 Cutlery Sets to Upgrade Dinner

Investing in a cutlery set (or flatware, as it is known in the States) is an instant life upgrade. Your primary concern is function— weight perfectly balanced, handles well — but this is also an opportunity to select something that will delight and elevate mealtimes.

You could go for a classic. The robust resin handle and generous shape of David Mellor’s Provençal (first introduced in the 70s) speak to an easy-going approach to dining. Sori Yanagi’s hugely popular flatware (made in Japan), and Iittala’s Citterio 98, both feature elegant sweeping lines and distinctive silhouettes.

If you enjoy the hunt, shopping vintage on resale sites will surface out-of-production goodies that will be the envy of your dinner party guests. Vintage Dansk flatware goes quickly: search terms to save are Odin, Fjord, and a personal favourite, Summerhouse. 9.47 steak knives from Perceval are iconic, and a set makes for the most classy wedding gift.

Want more? Dung Ngo — the editor-in-chief of AUGUST Journal — boasts an insane collection of modernist flatware, which will be on view as part of the Denver Art Museum’s Knife Fort Spoon: Everyday Tools, Extraordinary Design exhibition, opening in May 2026. Ngo’s accompanying book will be published in August 2026 (pre-order now).

1. Korstick mustard acrylic and stainless steel. From €12 per pcs
2. Sori Yanagi stainless steel flatware. From $8 per pcs
3. Percival 9.47 steak knives in red. €124 for a pair
4. Korean chopsticks in stainless steel. £7.50 for 10 pcs
5. Jessi Burch Seven Ball cutlery set in sterling silver-plated brass. $595 for one setting
6. 1980s Habitat stainless steel set and stand. €364.65 for 24 pcs
7. David Mellor Provençal in black acetal resin and stainless steel. £116 for six pieces
8. Zani&Zani Piuma by Enzo Mari in matte stainless steel. €155 for four pcs