Which table knife should you choose ?

Choosing a table knife is not just a matter of style or budget: it is above all a thoughtful decision, at the crossroads of aesthetics, comfort, cutting performance and the occasions it is meant for. At La Grande Coutellerie, each model is selected with great care, whether for everyday meals or refined receptions. To choose well, it’s important to understand the variety of uses, the technical features, the materials and the heritage behind iconic French cutlery brands such as Le Thiers® or Laguiole.

A variety of knives for a multitude of uses

Everyday table essentials

The first category includes versatile table knives designed for most meals. Among them:

Classic Laguiole table knife:
With its instantly recognisable silhouette and iconic bee, it’s a timeless choice. Perfect for an elegant, traditional table setting, often available with either a micro-serrated or smooth blade.

Laguiole Berlingot:
A more contemporary option, offered in a vibrant range of colours with a curved acrylic handle and a micro-serrated blade ideal for daily use. Its lively design brightens any family table.

Le Thiers® table knife:
A modern interpretation of the regional knife, known for its ergonomics, clean lines and comfortable grip. Available in a classic version as well as in the Épure or Richelieu collections with their minimalist, mineral-inspired design.

Specialised knives

Some meals call for specific knives. Here are those every lover of a beautifully set table should know:

Steak knife:
Its fine, serrated blade cuts meat cleanly without shredding. Often found in Thiers or Laguiole collections with discreet micro-serration to preserve food texture.

Cheese knife:
Featuring anti-stick holes or an openwork blade, it’s perfect for cutting soft or washed-rind cheeses without crushing them.

Carving set:
Essential for special occasions, consisting of a large knife and carving fork to slice roasts and large cuts precisely.

Table bread knife:
Increasingly common in modern table sets, its serrated blade cuts individual bread rolls cleanly.

Butter knife:
Often overlooked, yet it completes a refined table setting. Available in many collections to match your cutlery.

Oyster or foie gras knives:
Crafted for delicate, gourmet dishes, these illustrate the diversity and precision of tools offered by La Grande Coutellerie.

Fish service:
Specially shaped knives designed to respect the delicate texture of fish.

Materials, shapes and design: key factors to consider

Steel: safety and performance

The knives selected by La Grande Coutellerie are made from high-quality stainless steels meeting French food-safety standards. X50CrMoV15 steel, used in most premium collections, ensures long-lasting sharpness and excellent corrosion resistance.

Handles: comfort, aesthetics and care

From noble woods (ebony, olive, stabilised maple) to composite materials (mineral-based or acrylics), the handle greatly influences grip and maintenance. Natural woods offer warmth and character but should be washed by hand. Composite materials are more dishwasher-friendly while maintaining a refined appearance.

Aesthetics: finding visual harmony

A good table knife should match the overall atmosphere. Classic, rustic, contemporary or festive — it extends the identity of your table setting.
Le Thiers® pairs beautifully with mineral and modern tableware, while colourful Berlingot knives bring cheerfulness to everyday meals.

Which occasion? Which set?

- Daily use: choose sturdy, dishwasher-compatible knives such as the Laguiole Berlingot collection.

- Special occasions: handcrafted models with precious wood handles (ebony, juniper) offer timeless elegance.

- Gift ideas: a boxed set of 6 or 12 personalised Thiers or Laguiole table knives is a refined and lasting gift.

Why choose La Grande Coutellerie?

La Grande Coutellerie, led by Claudine Dozorme — Master Cutler — offers a demanding selection of table knives made in France, in Thiers, according to the strictest artisanal standards. With more than 30 years of expertise at the head of the Claude Dozorme manufacture, she now extends this excellence through boutiques in Clermont-Ferrand, Cannes and Paris, as well as via the online store.

Whether you're looking for a full set, a unique piece or a specialised table knife, you will find a wide selection of carefully curated models chosen for their technical quality, aesthetics and authenticity.