That’s why we started this series, to take our readers along as we visit factories, meet the people behind the products, and experience the craftsmanship firsthand.
On a recent trip to Libbey’s factory in Toledo, Ohio, we got an up-close look at just how much goes into a glass before it ever reaches the table. Stepping onto the factory floor feels like entering another world; everywhere you turn, gobs of molten glass are being shot into molds, then twisted, pulled and shaped into the elegant, durable glassware that has made Libbey an iconic name throughout the hospitality industry.
There’s a reason Toledo is known as “The Glass City.” Founded in 1888, Libbey’s Toledo plant continues a long tradition of American glassmaking, remaining a leading manufacturer of glassware made in the U.S. Libbey remains dedicated to its classic catalog of tried-and-true shapes, while continuing to innovate through new designs and partnerships with heritage brands including Spiegelau and Nachtmann.
And what better time to appreciate great glassware than the holiday season? From a perfectly poured martini to Champagne at midnight, the right glass can make an occasion feel that much more special. With the season of entertaining and celebration upon us, we’re raising a glass to some of the shapes, collections, and innovations catching our eye right now.
Now in stock at Singer, Hi-Lite is the latest innovation in luxury crystal stemware designed for hospitality. This collection was created to elevate any beverage program with the sheer and lightweight crystal composition wine lovers love from Spiegelau.
The Tribute Collection by Rona honors heritage craftsmanship through contemporary, refined silhouettes designed to elevate every pour. Crafted from ultra-thin, high-quality glass, each piece balances remarkable lightness with strength to enhance aroma, flavor, and presentation. It’s signature rocks and highball glasses have a playful super imposed thumbprint etch design, straight from the hands of the collection’s designer Erik Lorincz.
The trendsetting, industry leading team at Nude Glass collaborated with renowned mixologist Giorgio Bargiani to create this collection, who was named International Bartender of the Year in 2023 at Tales of the Cocktail. Bringing elegance and charm to the drinking experience, Bar/Giani reimagines classic shapes for martinis, negronis, and more. Now in stock at Singer Equipment Company.
Arc Cardinal makes a splash with its new silhouette of ultra-thin stemware made in its French factory. At a surprisingly approachable price point for the elegance and quality of this shape, Mylla is sure to make a home in many settings; from a fine dining place setting to a bigger bottle service option for truly any restaurant that takes wine seriously. Now in stock at Singer Equipment Company.
Björn Frantzén is the only chef in the world to hold three Michelin stars across three restaurants simultaneously. Designed and developed by Frantzén himself, this collection brings Scandinavian design elegance and technical performance together, elevating every aspect of the wine experience. Building off a successful stemware launch, Orrefors has introduced a series of rocks and highballs to round out the line. One of our personal favorite pieces is the unassuming 8-ounce tumbler, perfect for water service on any table or any hotel room.
Disco isn’t dead with the refreshing launch of Discora by Arc Cardinal. The line offers tactile and visual interest and a festive feel. The refined design enhances presentation and elevates the drinking experience. Two new coupes have been added to the mix, creating a refreshing spin to any cocktail program. Now in stock at Singer.
This series by Mattias Stenberg is brand new, characterized by soft lines, and tall, slender stems, striking a balance between simplicity and everyday use. Machine-made in crystal, Nutid offers an array of shapes and sizes: wine, flute, cocktail, aperitif, beer and water glasses.
Join us next month for another installment of Straight to the Source as we continue our tabletop adventures around the world. Until then, explore our latest work on @singertabletop or connect with our team at
tabletop@singerequipment.com.
Molly Bishop is a Tabletop Specialist at Singer Equipment Company, supporting Singer Kittredge in the Greater Boston Area and beyond. With a background in broadcast journalism and over a decade in food media, she loves combining storytelling with hospitality. Molly is based in Newton, MA, and can be reached at mbishop@singerequipment.com.
