The Finishing Touches For hoteliers and restaurateurs seeking to deliver an outstanding dining experience, procuring the right cutlery can make all the difference. Words: Jenna Campbell
W
hen it comes to hospitality, the recurring
require a design with a timeless elegance, such as
theme – at least in the realm of
an 18/10 lustrous stainless steel, while conference
procurement – is to focus attention on
and banqueting functions might benefit from
big-picture components, while the finer details
using a contemporary range of coloured or matte-
like carefully selected cutlery can be all too easily
finished items, featuring bright golds and copper
overlooked. And yet, it is becoming increasingly
two-tone contrasts. In recent years, the shift away
evident that high-quality flatware makes all
from more ornate collections, towards adventurous
the difference when it comes to delivering an
iridescent palettes, alternative materials such as
outstanding culinary journey. Done well, it adds to
bamboo, or sculptured finishes using techniques
the ambience, complements the surroundings, and
such as sandblasting and planishing demonstrates
enhances the overall response to the dining concept.
the level of innovation and artistry that cutlery
Playing an intrinsic role in how food is experienced,
brands are employing in order to cater for modern
cutlery is often one of the first elements that a diner
tastes and discerning diners who covet experiences
comes into contact with, setting the tone for the
above all else.
experience ahead. However, there are a number of
While the Scandi-inspired minimalist designs
important considerations when selecting suitable
popular with Nordic-style establishments are still
flatware, from style and weight to durability
in vogue, top cutlery designers are always looking
and price point. Equally, haptic qualities – how
for new ways to push the boundaries, incorporating
that knife and fork feel in the hand – can affect
materials such as wood and brass into their ranges,
impressions of taste and quality. A study published
alongside cutting-edge methods of engineering to
in the Flavour Journal for example, found that
create quality-driven collections that can stand the
the brain makes judgements on food before it is
test of time.
consumed, to the extent that when the cutlery’s
In what is an increasingly dynamic and
weight corresponds to expectations, guests are
forward-thinking sector, just as demand for
more convinced of a dish’s quality; similarly, the
versatile flatware options increases, so too does
size, shape and colour can impact on perceptions
the variety of designs and styles on offer. In the
of flavour and value for money.
following pages, we showcase some of our favourite
Beyond the multisensory factors, those in charge of procuring cutlery will most likely want to select a range befitting the cuisine and style of dining on show. Venues specialising in fine dining may
cutlery brands, whose latest flatware collections effortlessly combine style and substance.
