Abstract: The foldable flatware utensil includes a shank with an integral spoon bowl, knife or fork. An elongated handle has an end that is telescopically connected to an end of the shank. A bore in the shank is aligned with a bore in the handle when assembled for use. A line has one end anchored in the bore in the shank. Another end of the line holds a portion of the line in the bore in the shank. If the line is elastic, the handle is urged toward the shank for use and stretches to permit the handle to be disengaged from the shank and folded for storage. If the line is inelastic, a sleeve is retained on the line and fixed in the bore in the handle. When removing the handle from the use position, a portion of the line is pulled through the sleeve and permits the handle to be folded for storage. A detent maintains a connection between the handle and the shank if needed.