Joybuy Insights

Gourmet set and table accessories: a practical guide to cosy dining

A gourmet evening sounds simple enough: plug it in, put the ingredients on the table, and everyone can get started. Yet many households end up buying a gourmet set or table accessories that don't quite suit their needs. A baking tray that's too small, parts that are difficult to clean, or dinnerware that can't go in the dishwasher – these things quickly become a source of frustration.

This guide will help you compare gourmet sets and table accessories on capacity, material, maintenance and safety. That way, you can make an informed choice between a raclette grill, electric fondue, wok pan set, dinnerware set, cutlery set and drinking glasses.

Three common pitfalls when buying

1. The number of people is interpreted too loosely

A gourmet set for 8 people doesn't always mean eight people have equal space to cook at the same time. So check the dimensions of the baking tray, the number of pans and the available space on your table. For a family, a compact model may be sufficient; for a group of friends, eight individual pans and a wide plate are more practical.

2. "Easy to clean" says little without details

Pay attention to which parts are removable and whether they can go in the dishwasher. The housing of an electrical appliance should generally not be submerged. With accessories, the difference is significant: some steak knives, wine glasses and gin glasses must be washed by hand, while certain pans and dinnerware parts are dishwasher-safe.

3. A non-stick coating isn't automatically PFAS-free

A product may have a non-stick coating without it being clear what composition has been used. If you're specifically looking for a PFAS-free gourmet set, check the product specification and the manufacturer's information. Wording such as "safe" or "healthy" is no substitute for a concrete material declaration. In the selection below, PFAS-free is only mentioned when this is stated in the product information.

Important specifications for your choice

Capacity, size and power

Don't just look at the stated number of people. A model for 4 people may be suitable for a small table, while an appliance for 6 to 8 people needs more space and a longer cable. The power affects how quickly an appliance reaches temperature, but also the electricity consumption.

As a practical guide:

  • A compact raclette grill of around 600 watts is designed for melting cheese and limited grilling.
  • A gourmet set for 8 people often uses around 1,350 watts.
  • An electric fondue with grill function can use around 1,950 watts.
  • A wok and pancake maker of 1,500 watts offers multiple cooking options, but takes up more table space.

Also check whether the thermostat is adjustable. A variable temperature control is handy when you want to grill not just meat, but also vegetables, mini pizzas, omelettes or pancakes.

Material and coating

With a grill plate or wok pan set, the base material and coating are important. Product information may mention aluminium, stainless steel or a non-stick coating. With a non-stick coating, it's better to use wooden or plastic spatulas, and stop using it when the coating is damaged.

For the Fritel Gourmet Wok Pancake GWP 2560, the product information states a PFAS-free version, a fixed grill plate with non-stick coating and eight wok pans with spatulas. According to the product description, the set is suitable for one to eight people. The wok pans are dishwasher-safe according to the specifications, but hand washing is recommended to preserve the coating for longer.

Maintenance and safety

An electric cooking appliance should be placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Keep cables away from table edges and don't let children touch hot parts. Check before buying:

  • Are the grill plates, pans or fondue bowls removable?
  • Are the parts dishwasher-safe?
  • Is there an automatic shut-off or overheat protection?
  • Are the handles heat-resistant?
  • Does the appliance have a CE mark where applicable?

For dinnerware and glasses, different points apply. A dinnerware set that is microwave and dishwasher-safe is better suited to daily use. A crystal wine glass or large gin glasses may require hand washing instead.

Recommendations by usage profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Fritel Cheese Raclette CR 1895 - Swiss Cheese Raclette + Grill

Fritel Cheese Raclette CR 1895

Why this suits the profile: This model is compact and focused on raclette with cheese and grilling. The temperature is adjustable up to 310 °C and the appliance is suitable for use with a cheese block or wedge.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states a fully demountable design, overheat protection and a non-slip base. This means maintenance and placement are clearly described.

Key benefit & highlights

600 watts, grill plate, adjustable cheese platform and, according to the product description, a PFAS-free construction.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality
Fritel Gourmet Wok Pancake GWP 2560

Fritel Gourmet Wok Pancake GWP 2560

Why this suits the profile: The combination of wok cooking, gourmet dining and pancake making suits households that want one appliance for different dinner occasions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The capacity, dimensions and accessories are clearly stated: eight wok pans, eight spatulas and use for one to eight people.

Key benefit & highlights

1,500 watts, variable temperature control, PFAS-free according to the product specification and a fixed grill plate.

Suitable for: Specific use & heavy users
Fritel Culinary Fondue FG 2970

Fritel Culinary Fondue FG 2970

Why this suits the profile: The electric fondue is designed for those who want to combine meat, fish, broth, vegetables or dessert fondue with grilling at the table.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The bowl and grill plate are removable and, according to the product description, dishwasher-safe. The two functions can be used simultaneously or separately.

Key benefit & highlights

2-litre capacity, 1,950 watts, adjustable temperature and six fondue forks according to the product information.

Suitable for: Daily use and complete table settings
Secret de Gourmet Colorama Dinnerware Set

Secret de Gourmet Colorama Dinnerware Set

Why this suits the profile: This 18-piece dinnerware set is suitable for six people and combines everyday use with a striking table colour.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The maintenance information is concrete: dishwasher and microwave-safe, but not suitable for oven or freezer.

Key benefit & highlights

18 pieces, stoneware, suitable for six people and easy maintenance according to the product specifications.

Table accessories that often make the difference

For a complete table set-up, you can supplement a gourmet set with practical accessories:

  • Steak knives: a serrated stainless steel blade is suitable for meat and pizza. The Secret de Gourmet steak knife set contains six knives and must be washed by hand.
  • Cutlery set: a 16-piece stainless steel cutlery set includes forks, spoons, knives and teaspoons. Do check the difference between the stated number of pieces and the number of people.
  • Drinking glasses set: stackable glasses of 28 cl save cupboard space. For daily use, dishwasher-safety is an important point to check.
  • Wine glasses and gin glasses: pay attention to capacity and maintenance. The gin glasses mentioned have a capacity of 70 cl, but according to the product information they are not suitable for the dishwasher.
  • Drink dispenser: a set with two 4-litre dispensers is useful for a barbecue or party. Check the temperature limit; this version is intended for drinks up to 60 °C.

Frequently asked questions

How many watts does a gourmet set need?

That depends on the size and application. For cheese raclette, 600 watts may be sufficient. A gourmet set for 8 people often uses around 1,350 watts. A combination with fondue and grill may require around 1,950 watts. A higher wattage doesn't automatically mean a better choice; capacity, thermostat and table space all matter.

How do you clean a gourmet set safely?

Let the appliance cool down completely and unplug it. Then only remove the parts that are stated as removable in the instructions. Grill plates and pans may sometimes go in the dishwasher, but the main unit, cable and plug must not be submerged in water.

How long does a gourmet set last?

The lifespan depends on frequency of use, storage and maintenance. Don't damage the non-stick coating with metal kitchen utensils, avoid moisture in the electrical base and follow the cleaning instructions. Also check the warranty when buying; several of the models mentioned have a two-year manufacturer's warranty.

Looking for more options?

We've put together a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.