In a city like Paris, inspiration lies around every corner. Having lived there for two years, I know this firsthand. Everything caught my attention – from the grand architecture on the boulevards to the chic fashion choices of the city dwellers. Even the flatware in Parisian bistros piqued my curiosity – I always saw the same style everywhere I ate, and in my mind, it became synonymous with French bistro culture.
Although it's been years since I've lived in Paris, I was recently reminded of my time in the city after seeing its distinct style of flatware pop up within the spring collections at brands like H&M, IKEA, and Anthropologie. With colorful handles and metallic rivets, these flatware styles are identical to what I'd use when I'd eat out in Paris. Now, I've got my eye on one set in particular – this $48 Jubilee Flatware Set from Anthropologie. With this set, I'll be able to channel the charm and chic style of Parisian bistros in my tiny New York kitchen.
This 16-piece flatware set consists of four dinner forks, four dinner knives, four soup spoons, and four teaspoons. These utensils are made from stainless steel, and they feature colorful handles with the iconic rivets that aid in giving them their retro, French bistro-inspired look. This set is available in three different colors, and for convenience, it's dishwasher safe.
Almost every bistro that I went to in Paris had tables arranged with cutlery sets that looked just as chic and retro as the one above from Anthropologie. Even my first apartment in Paris (which came pre-furnished) was stocked with utensils that had this specific look – a stainless steel finish and metallic rivets positioned in the center of each utensil's colorful handle.
The reason why this style of cutlery is so strongly associated with Parisian bistro culture is that it's modeled after the designs of the iconic French tableware brand, Sabre Paris. This brand popularized the colorful handle and exposed rivet cutlery style back in the 90s, and now, the style is practically everywhere in Paris – cemented as a must-have for all of the city's cafes, bistros, and brasseries.
If you want to populate your kitchen with authentic French flatware, Sabre makes plenty of styles that'll give your home that chic bistro feeling in no time. The only downside is that these sets aren't cheap (a five-piece set starts at $93.50). That's why I'm so excited about this Anthropologie find at just $48 for 16 pieces.
As if this set couldn't get any better, it has some pretty fantastic reviews. Reviewers have commented on its chic and classic design, while others mentioned its materiality, explaining that these utensils feel durable and sturdy for everyday use. 'I have not been able to stop admiring how this set changes the vibe of my meals!' one reviewer wrote.
So, if you're looking to make your kitchen feel like it belongs in the heart of Paris, or if you're simply tired of using plain silver cutlery, bistro-style flatware is just what your home needs. Shop six more styles that are just as chic, below.
Shop More French Bistro-Inspired Flatware
This 16-piece set from H&M is almost identical to Anthropologie's Jubilee Flatware Set. The only difference is that these handles are slightly longer and boxier in form. Nonetheless, it's a classic set of cutlery in a sophisticated colorway that'll elevate the style of your kitchen with some Parisian charm.
IKEA's take on the iconic French flatware style is slightly more contemporary than other variations, as these utensils feature handles with gold rivets that widen at the bottom. That said, this set is just as solid a pick for your kitchen, and it boasts some positive reviews, too.
Although slightly different in design, this 20-piece cutlery set channels the French bistro vibe just as well as any other set. Each utensil's handle leans a bit more traditional in form, with a curved, ergonomic shape and small metallic rivets. However, its bright blue color makes this set a fun choice for your kitchen.
It doesn't get any more French than this. Named Bistrot by Sabre, this set of cutlery is easily one of the brand's most recognizable designs. It nails the classic French bistro look, too, with its visible metallic rivets and colorful handle. Sold at McGee & Co., this set is also available in ivory and navy blue.
This 5-piece cutlery set features utensils with slightly longer and rounder handles – making for a more comfortable grip while eating. This set is just as classically French as other variations, too, with its rivet details and its deep blue color. Get a few of these sets and your kitchen will be complete with the chicest flatware arrangement.
Designed with the same riveted handle as the others, but a crisp, white finish, this 20-piece set is perfect for anyone looking to channel elevated, chic French bistro vibes in their home. This set is entirely dishwasher safe, making it a convenient choice for busy homes.
A trip back to Paris might not be on the cards for me in the next few weeks, but this style of cutlery making an appearance is bringing back feelings of nostalgia, and it's the perfect dose of color for my New York kitchen.
