If you google flatware pattern identification you'll find several websites with online catalogs of known patterns.

Or you could just make your bread and butter call, compliment the flatware and ask what the name is. :) Sometimes the direct approach works wonders!

Be direct. Ask. And then tell us what it is!

Try Replacements.com but plan to spend hours digging about on website. You could draw it and then send drawing to the company, but that's a guess on my part.

For what it's worth, most manic tablesetters (like me) are thrilled when someone notices such things and would not be offended if you contacted to just say thanks and ask about the tableware. Might be a link between you and a potential new friend as well!

Check out the Yamakazi flatware pattern called cache. It has the vine motif you mentioned.

Here is a link that might be useful: cache flatware

I'd be cautious about asking directly for the pattern name if you then intend to copy them by buying another set for your home. While some people would be flattered (I would), there are others who would take offense, especially if it is a distinctive and unusual pattern.

Maybe the most direct approach of all would be to ask for the pattern AND ask specifically if they would mind if you also bought it?

Ask 'em. It's a compliment!

Thanks everyone.

I sent a thank you note via email and as a PS did ask. I received a reply that they were delighted to have us and too look forward to more shared dinners but the question was ignored. LOL, guess I'll have to sneak a picture or get a better look at the back if we go again

Wasn't planning on copying or anything but I was curious.

I know I'd be flattered if someone asked me what my flatware pattern was. I also wouldn't know what it was! Maybe she's checking????

Sounds like antique silver. Was the fork heavy? Were there designs on both sides? Crown at the bottom or could it be a shell?

Start here at fina

Check out the photo on the bottom right of this link -- the vine going up the fork tiffany . Mouse over the patterns to see detail (they should have better pics IMO)

When stuff is super expensive people often don't like to say what it is. If it isn't here, there's English silver to look at also 3 or 4 other brands.