Forks

123 products

Forks are the most-used piece of flatware on the table, so pattern, weight and finish matter. This collection covers dinner forks, European (continental) dinner forks, and salad and dessert forks in stainless steel patterns from cafeteria basics to banquet and fine dining.

You'll find Oneida, Steelite (including WNK and Varick), SignatureWares, Browne, Corby Hall, Libbey World Tableware and Tableware Solutions, mostly in 12- and 36-packs. Match knives and spoons in the same pattern from our Flatware range.

Types of forks

  • Dinner forks – the standard entrée fork, typically around 7 to 7.5", in patterns like Oneida Barcelona, Browne Oxford and Steelite Charleston.
  • European dinner forks – longer, heavier continental forks for larger plates and upscale table settings.
  • Salad and dessert forks – shorter forks for salads, appetizers and desserts, often sold as a combined salad/dessert fork.

What to consider when choosing forks

  • Steel grade – 18/10 and 18/8 stainless resist corrosion and hold their shine; 18/0 is lighter, magnetic and more economical. Check each product's specs.
  • Weight – heavyweight patterns feel substantial in fine dining; medium and economy weights suit cafeterias and high-loss settings.
  • Pattern continuity – choose a pattern that's available as knives, spoons and specialty pieces, so you can add or replace pieces later.
  • Dinner vs. European size – match fork length to your plate size; European forks look right on 11 to 12" plates.
  • Finish – mirror finishes show scratches; satin and brushed finishes hide wear in heavy use.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between a dinner fork and a European dinner fork?

A European (continental) fork is longer and usually heavier than a standard dinner fork, and suits larger plates and formal settings.

How many forks do I need per seat?

A common starting point is three to four sets per seat for dinner forks, so you can cover a full turn while others are in the dish machine. Add salad/dessert forks if they're on every setting.

How do I keep stainless forks from spotting?

Pre-soak in a flatware presoak, wash handles-down in cylinders, then sort and re-wash handles-up, and dry promptly to prevent water spots.

Prefer to talk it through? Find a Russell Hendrix representative.