I bought my first Treble Clef set from Gourmet Settings when I was 18 or so and saved it for my first apartment. So I didn't move out until I was 26, but shortly after I did, I bought my second set and was gifted the matching serving set. I am 34 now and this flatware is in the same condition as the day I bought it. They've been in dishwashers and washed by hand. They been in all sorts of unusual situations where maybe I'd have been better off using something from my tool box but a butter knife was more handy. Seriously, I abuse the crap out of this flatware and they've held up. My friend, fellow Yelper Dan G loved my set so much he bought his own.
You can find them at all sorts of retailers. I think my first set was purchased at TJ Maxx and I've recently seen them at Bed, Bath, and Beyond.
This, however, was my first experience dealing directly with Gourmet Settings. Over the years, a piece or four have gone missing. (Yes, old roommate Nick, I know you stole some of my forks.) I don't really need another entire set, but I've finally gotten to the point where I really don't like having the missing pieces either, so I called Gourmet Settings directly and asked them where I might purchase open stock.
Jane, the wonderfully friendly woman I spoke to, suggested I figure out exactly what I'm missing and she'll rummage through returned sets to see if they have what I'm missing. She said if they have it, and it's only a few pieces, she will gladly just mail them to me for free. Yes, free. And, if not, she will do whatever she can to find a better way to assist me.
So here we have a company that not only makes a wonderful, durable, beautiful affordable product (they are approximately $60USD for a complete setting for 4 and there are lots of different styles too). But they also have exceptional customer service.
This company is the kind of company that sets the standard for five stars. If you're in the market for flatware, I HIGHLY suggest you check out Gourmet Settings. Even if you're looking for a LOT of flatware (like for a restaurant), they have selections that cater to that as well.
Oh, and good news! It looks like they've just added a line of elegant simple dinnerware. I'm sure this will be the first set of many and I can't wait to see what they come up with. Maybe all of my plates will one day be Gourmet Settings too. read more