What is dining al fresco? “Al fresco” is an Italian term that means “in the cool” or “in the fresh air”. Originally used to refer to outdoor air, the term has been adopted by English-speaking people to mean outdoor dining simply.
Now, don’t confuse al fresco dining with going on a family picnic or enjoying sandwiches and pickles while sitting on a blanket in a lakeside park. Both are enjoyable open-air options, but dining al fresco usually involves comfortable seating, refined tablescapes including your best silverware sets, and a casual but often party-like or festive atmosphere.
Many restaurants and cafes offer outdoor dining, with terrace restaurants offering heated outdoor areas with large seating spaces for groups celebrating a birthday or other special occasion.
Dining outdoors goes beyond just enjoying a meal; it involves a relaxed, social atmosphere that can instantly boost your mood. It’s all about slowing down and enjoying time with each other, whether it’s a dinner for two or a group of friends. And let’s not forget that worldwide belief that says food just tastes better outdoors.
Set a romantic al fresco table with your best silverware sets
There is something romantic about dining al fresco. Being surrounded by nature seems to heighten relaxation and a sense of intimacy. So set up a table for two, add delicious food, and get ready for a memorable evening!
We set up an al fresco table for two and included a selection of our best silverware sets for a pretty and practical table setting. Enjoy the lovely summertime tablescape and our tips for setting your al fresco table.
Laying the groundwork
Just like laying the groundwork is important to having a successful garden, prepping the foundation of your outdoor table can make a statement when setting your al fresco table.
Bright yellow was the predominant color of this tablescape, and this vintage embroidered daisy vine tablecloth made a dreamy summery backdrop to the place settings.
With its one-of-a-kind handles and warm antique copper finish, the Celia copper flatware collection is both rustic and elegant. Hand-hammered and hand-polished to a brilliant shine, this artisan flatware set is one of our top picks for best flatware sets for dining al fresco.
Let Mother Nature Take the Lead
At INOX Artisans, we love an elaborate table setting as much as any table stylist out there, but sometimes it's good to take a more simplistic route and use the natural beauty of your surroundings to give a dinner-for-two a unique ambience.
We set our table near plush greenery, shaded by rose of Sharon trees, honeysuckle bushes, and vines.
Black flatware makes a bold impression on any table, whether you’re having a large family dinner party or a romantic dinner for two. Black is such a classic shade, and because your flatware set should be one of the first things everyone notices on a table like this one, we opted for black-handled flatware from the Jason collection.
Jason flatware has classic square handles that widen slightly.
Square forks and large spoons are simple, striking, and showcase the heirloom quality of this handcrafted flatware set. When it comes to putting our best flatware sets on the table, the Jason collection is always a top contender.
Incorporate nature’s beauty
Create a gorgeous table with an organic feeling by adding flowers from your garden for a centerpiece or simply clipping a few fresh herbs to add to each place setting.
Faux florals make a low-maintenance but vibrant centerpiece. We love the idea of using your favorite flowers at any time of the year, and this lovely vintage pitcher with ivory and yellow tulips adds a romantic touch.
Stack your best silverware set
For a more casual setting that fits with the relaxed outdoors, why not opt for stacking your flatware set right on top of the plate? It’s a win-win for easy table setting and lends a laid-back elegance to your table.
We opted to partially stack the Diana PVD gold flatware set. The dinner fork and knife are overlapped on the edge of the plate, inviting a relaxed aesthetic to this al fresco table for two.
Lighten the mood
Candlelight is romantic, but not always a practical choice on a breezy summer evening! String lights are still trending, and it’s understandable because they offer the same benefits of dining with light without the hassle. A simple string of lights in the trees alongside our table was all the mood lighting needed.
🕯️Hint: Want to bring out your best silverware sets for a romantic dinner for two? The luxurious shine of our handcrafted gold and bronze PVD flatware sets captures the light from any source, whether it be a candlelit table or outdoor hanging lights.
Put your best fruit forward
How eye-catching is that tumble of lemons? They complement the yellow charger plates and add a pleasant pop of color with a slight citrusy aroma.
A guaranteed conversation starter, these lemons can become part of the meal, adding a hint of flavor to a summer salad, or grab a few and slice them for after-dinner cocktails!
Along with putting our best fruits forward, this lemony table setting is finished with another standout flatware set for dining al fresco.
The Plateau design features unique square handles with beveled ends. Geometric handles add a sophisticated touch to your table settings, and the distressed vintage gold handles are the perfect balance of modern and rustic.
One final tip
Don’t be afraid to bring out your best silverware sets when dining al fresco. The weight and feel of real flatware enhance the eating experience. What’s more, the unique nature and heirloom quality of our handmade stainless steel flatware can turn ordinary outdoor dining into a delightful dining al fresco experience.
While we never did find the answer to why food always tastes better outdoors, we hope these tips will encourage you to have fun when setting your outdoor tables.
We invite you to browse our best flatware sets and serving pieces to make this summer a memorable one.
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