You have bought an y-shaped peeler, mandolin, fish spatula, pasta strainer, potato ricer, meat thermometer, spice grinder, mesh strainer, and kitchen tongs. What’s next? It’s time to invest in the best chef’s knives.
Probably, you have done some research all over the internet. Maybe, you have visited many websites to find the best chef’s knife. Whatever your case might be, the variety of options is overwhelming and confusing to deal with.
Of course, any enthusiast wants the right chef’s knives. The selection process, however, is more difficult and complicated than ever.
Also read: Santoku Knife vs Chef Knife
Worry no more! In this article, we have gathered the top 7 knives for chefs. Without further ado, let’s get started! Enjoy!
Contents
- Vie Belles Chef’s Knives
- Henckels Professional S Chef Knife
- Wusthof Classic Ikon Santoku
- Messermeister Meridian Elite Stealth Knife
- Messermeister Oliva Elite Stealth
- 7 Inch Global Santoku (G-48 or G-80)
- MAC MTH-80 - 8 Inch Professional Series Chef Knife with Dimples
- Factors to Consider When Searching for the Best Chef’s Knife
Vie Belles Chef’s Knives
When searching for the best chef’s knife, there are many things to consider.
The manufacturer is the first factor to weigh in mind. Is the knifemaker reputed and reliable? Then, they are good to go.
But with a number of brands out there, it would be confusing to narrow down your options. Vie Belles has a reputation for providing one of the highest quality and the best knives in today’s industry.
With their years of experience and wide expertise as a knifemaker, Vie Belles has been the go-to option for many clients in different parts of the world.
One of the top products in this company is their Chef’s Knife Vie Belles. Similar to other kitchen knives, this version from Vie Belles feels good in the hands. It is comfortable to hold and use. Whether you will be slicing meat or vegetables, it is fun and simple to utilize.
Features
Chefs also love the sharp edge of this knife. Whether you have been using a poor quality or inefficient chef’s knife, this item from Vie Belles is a great replacement you should have today.
It is made from the finest materials, ensuring high performance, usability, and flexibility as well. It lasts for months without losing its efficiency and quality.
Available at a competitive rate, it is a complete addition to your collection, leveling up any cooking session.
A combination of ultra-modern technology with great craftsmanship and ancient tradition, this knife is a perfect solution for every professional and non-pro cook.
PROS
What sets Chef’s Knife Vie Belles apart from other knives is that it is considered as a Japanese knife with a Western-style.
Just like the other knives for chefs, it provides a well-balanced stability for home cooks. Thanks to its Cocobolo wood handle. It is sleek, comfortable to use, and easy to hold.
The blade, on the other hand, is equipped with the pure VG-10 steel core and 67 layers of SUS 430 Japan stainless steel. Each side comes with a razor-sharp 15 degrees blade angle. Also, the hardness is superb and fantastic.
But wait, there’s more! The double-bevel edge is hand-sharpened, making it an excellent choice for both right and left-handed people. It is a flexible investment, indeed.
The style and design are impressive. Aside from the aesthetic appeal, it offers stick-resistant cutting performance that you would enjoy thru the years. Thanks to dedicated folding, re-squaring, or recombining steels.
Henckels Professional S Chef Knife
- QUALITY MANUFACTURING: Manufactured in Germany. Special formula high...
- RESILIENT BLADE: Ice-hardened FRIODUR blade starts sharper stays...
- PRECISE CUTTING: Precision honed blade and laser-controlled edge...
- BALANCED KNIFE: Ergonomic polymer three rivet handle is perfectly...
- RETAINS SHARP EDGE: 57 Rockwell hardness is equal to excellent edge...
Are you searching for the best knife? Don’t look further than Henckels Professional S Chef Knife.
Made by one of the largest knifemakers around the globe, this 8-inch knife can compete with other knives in today’s market.
Since the 1700s, Zwilling J.A. Henckels has been producing a maximum of 24 lines of knives. The Henckels Professional S, for example, is one of the company’s bestsellers since its availability.
Features
What makes it unique from others is that Henckels Professional S is forged from steel with a three-rivet handle, a full -tang, and bolster. Yes, it has a classic design that everyone shouldn’t miss.
Before, wood was the major component in knife handles. Things have changed today. The Henckels Professional S, for example, has a handle packed with synthetic and other special materials. So, the longevity level varies.
New and seasoned chefs love the feel of the knife. It is well balanced. If you’re slicing meat of any type, this 8-inch chef’s knife is good to go. It is comfortable to use and perfect for hours of cooking for birthdays, wedding anniversaries, or other special events.
PROS
While the steel is not as hard as you imagine, this 8-inch knife is heat-treated, enabling everyone to enjoy performance and usability. Even after months of use, it remains razor sharp. But don’t forget to get it professionally sharpened to have a stress-free and convenient cooking.
Unlike older knives, Henckels Professional S has upgraded. The handle, for instance, was converted into matte. It is aesthetically pleasing that you can boast to closest friends, colleagues, and family.
The blade thickness, on the other hand, is thinner to compete with Japanese knives. The blade shape and handle are the same things. The feel remains great.
The Henckels Professional S is also available in 8 and 10 inches. If you are uncomfortable with 8, the 10-inch J.A Henckels will be a perfect investment. It is easy to use and can level up your experience.
While the International Classic has caught people’s attention and interest, the J.A Henckels is a much better option.
CONS
The knife has a thin steel blade that might be a problem for some.
So, what are you waiting for? Add it to cart today and see its difference among other chef’s knives. It is user-friendly, competitively priced, long-lasting, sturdy, and impact-resistant. Also, it is experts-recommended and highly certified, which can complete your collection.
Since you’re already aware of the best knife and some selection pointers, what’s your choice? Visit popular ecommerce platforms like Amazon. You can also visit the official website of the manufacturer to enjoy great deals.
Wusthof Classic Ikon Santoku
- Comfortable and highly-durable polyoxymethylene
- handle with a traditional look and feel
- which prevent extra thin or soft slices from sticking to the blade
Perhaps, you have heard of Wusthof Classic Ikon Santoku. Maybe, you are a bit skeptical about whether or not to choose this best knife. It’s all right, and it is part of the process.
Generally, Wusthof Classic Ikon Santoku is an excellent choice for many. While it is designed with the classic Santoku style, the company puts a modern spin on it. The aesthetic appeal is perfect without compromising its durability and usability.
Features
With the high demand from the public, kitchen knives are costly. But the Wusthof Classic Ikon Santoku remains competitively priced. Customers can expect the best experience while saving some cash. It is suitable for those who are on a tight budget.
It is well made and forged by a professional, skilled, and capable team. More than the experience and expertise, the company is surrounded by friendly and accommodating staff that is always ready to assist everyone.
The design of the blade is a top option when making effortless and thin cuts. Thus, the quality, taste, flavor, and presentation of every meal are not compromised.
PROS
Made with a piece of high carbon steel, Wusthof Classic Ikon Santoku is forged with laser precision. Yes, the company uses state-of-the-art and innovative technology to meet the clients’ changing demands.
After a careful forging, this best chef’s knife is then tampered to ensure long-lasting and convenient sharpness. Once the blade is uncomfortable to use, get it professionally sharpened. It’s worth it.
It comes with a kullened edge designed to create less friction when cutting. For that reason, it allows food to fall from the blade as easily as possible.
What else? This best chef’s knife is available with a triple-riveted black handle. Aside from the aesthetic style, it is contoured for a stress-free grip while maintaining sufficient balance.
The full tang, on the contrary, extends thru the handle, creating enough heft and keeping balance in perfect condition.
Aside from dicing, the Santoku shaped blade is ideal for slicing. Within a minute or two, you can slice different types of meat, fruits, and veggies like butternut squash.
The triple-riveted handle is also constructed to guarantee security. So, professional and non-pro chefs can cook their favorite meals without any injuries.
A combo of the high quality blade and German style, this knife only requires minimal maintenance. It is perfect for those who have a hectic schedule
CONS
This knife might not please other users.
Messermeister Meridian Elite Stealth Knife
- CHEF’S KNIFE - Meridian Elite knives define tradition with the...
- BLADE WITH A PURPOSE - The smooth, fine edges on this chef’s knife...
- HIGH QUALITY - Our 15-degree blades are handcrafted from German 1.4116...
- OUR STORY - Founded in 1981, Messermeister is a leading manufacturer...
Another best chef’s knife is this option from Meridian Elite. What makes it stand out from many competing brands is its industrial strength polyoxymethylene handle. It is indeed perfect for every kitchen across the globe.
Aside from the POM handle, the stealth blade is hand forged. Yes, the company gets it done with extra caution, attention, and care.
Not only that, but the blade is also 10% lighter and 25% thinner than an old-style chef’s knife. Then, it has been ground down to achieve the desired thinness, creating a razor shape edge for different cutting, slicing, and dicing tasks.
Features
Made with high carbon, this best chef’s knife blade is corrosion-resistant. With minimal maintenance, it can resist rust for years or decades. But getting it professionally sharpened is crucial.
Apart from being rust-resistant, the blade can also withstand stains from vegetables, the meat of any type, or fruits.
With the high carbon and German-style stainless carbon alloy, Messermeister Meridian Elite Stealth Knife exhibits durability and toughness, making it a flexible solution for many.
Made to hold its edge retention, this best chef’s knife is fun to resharpen and achieve a razor-sharp edge.
Similar to other chef’s knives, Messermeister Meridian Elite Stealth Knife is one-piece, hot-drop hammer forged. Well-developed and tailored, it produces one of the strongest blades in the industry.
The blades are half treated. Then, they are cooled to provide a Rockwell of 57-58.
Apart from the blades, the 15-degree Elite edge is hand stropped on a cloth wheel. This creates the sharpest cutting surface over time.
The bolsterless heel has been designed to simplify all sharpening, cutting, and even honing tasks. Thus, you may earn or get the most out of the entire blade.
PROS
Messermeister Meridian Elite Stealth Knife is perfectly handcrafted in Solingen. As one of the best German knives, it levels up its razor shape characteristics and performance.
This best chef’s knife also offers a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
Messermeister Meridian Elite Stealth Knife requires minimal maintenance. It is hand washable. With the use of a mild detergent and warm water, you can keep it in a great condition for years. Then, rinse and dry this knife.
Most importantly, avoid placing it in the dishwasher to keep it rust-free and clean.
CONS
The knife cannot resist a cleaning solution that contains citrus extracts, bleach, and other harmful chemicals.
Messermeister Oliva Elite Stealth
- CHEF’S KNIFE - The blade, bolster & tang of Oliva Elite knives are...
- BLADE WITH A PURPOSE - The smooth, fine 15-degree edge on this...
- THINNER & LIGHTER - The Oliva Elite Stealth 8” Chef’s Knife is...
- HIGH QUALITY - Our blades are handcrafted from German 1.4116 steel...
- OUR STORY - Founded in 1981, Messermeister is a leading manufacturer...
If Messermeister Meridian Elite Stealth Knife does not meet your unique needs, this version from the company is another fantastic alternative you should buy.
Packed with a stunning olive wood handle, this chef’s knife from Messermeister will surely bring your kitchen to the next level. Also, any cutting, mincing, chopping, or dicing tasks will be as easy as 1, 2, 3.
Features
As one of the most sought-after German knives of 2020, it is a sharp and durable option you should weigh in mind. Plus, the quality is excellent and guaranteed to last for years.
Just like the Messermeister Meridian Elite Stealth Chef Knife, this 9-inch chef’s knife has a high carbon stainless alloy blade. This is one of the primary components the company uses due to its durability.
More than the tough and sturdy features, this chef’s knife is resistant to corrosion and stains. But wash it when used in different cutting, mincing, or slicing tasks in the kitchen.
Additional interesting feature about this knife is its handle. In fact, it is made of Italian olive wood that can beat Japanese knives and other competing products.
With the Italian olive wood, this stunning golden-brown handle is tested to provide a secure, ergonomic, and comfortable grip with a fantastic and accurate balance. The handle, however, is chunkier than the previous model. This means it is suitable for bigger hands.
PROS
Before, it was hard to search for a multipurpose chef’s knife. Today is different as the selection process has been easier with Messermeister Oliva Elite Stealth. You can use it for mincing, slicing, and dicing thru tough ingredients. When looking for a professional chef’s knife, your long wait is finally ended with this particular Messermeister model.
Messermeister Oliva Elite Stealth kitchen knife comes with a bolsterless heel, which streamlines all honing, cutting, and sharpening tasks. This allows you to use the entire blade, ensuring a quality cooking experience.
The industrial-strength, on the other hand, reach the industry’s highest standards. The POM handle, for instance, provides maximum control and balance while you mince, slice, chop, or slice.
Messermeister Oliva Elite Stealth chef’s knife is competitively affordable. Ideal for those who are on a tight budget, this kitchen knife is feature-packed. From durability, functionality to flexibility, it has them all. So, what’s your thought? Level up your cooking skills with this knife.
CONS
The knife might not reach other people’s expectations.
7 Inch Global Santoku (G-48 or G-80)
- All-purpose 7-inch hollow-ground Santoku knife for chopping, dicing,...
- Blade made of high-tech molybdenum/vanadium Stainless steel
- Face-ground with long taper so edge remains sharp longer
- Stainless-steel handle molded for Comfort and dimpled for safe grip
- Measures approximately 11 by 3 inches; wash by hand; Lifetime
Introduced in the 1940s in Japan, the Santoku Knife has been available for many years now.
Before, home chefs used a wide array of Japanese knives depending on the dish to prepare.
In the World War II era, chefs started exploring Western cooking styles. Then, they sought an all-purpose knife for the chef. The Santoku came into play.
When Rachael Ray, a celebrity chef, featured the Santoku in her cooking show, the knife became more popular than ever. This 7-inch Global Santoku has been a tried and tested option for many.
Features
Unlike other knives chefs of 2020, this 7-inch Global Santoku is easy to love.
The versatility, for instance, is the major advantage to expect from this Santoku model. As an all-purpose knife, it can be used for different tasks. These include slicing, chopping, mincing, and dicing.
While the knife has a smaller profile than other knives, Global Santoku has been labeled as a kitchen workforce, which can cut up a whole chicken and even mince garlic.
The precision is where Global Santoku excels the most. Having a lightweight and thin blades, this knife is simple to maneuver, making it an ideal solution for precise slicing.
PROS
Most Santoku knives feature a hollow edge, creating pockets between the food and blade. This means you can achieve clean slices, leaving your family with a bright and satisfied smile.
Although the Santoku is available with a simple design, there’s a variety of shapes, construction, material, or even cutting angle.
This 7-inch Global Santoku, for instance, is made of molybdenum or vanadium stainless steel. It is sturdy and long-lasting.
If you are not comfortable with a stainless steel knife, a ceramic or laminated layer might be a great choice to take into account.
This 7-inch Global Santoku has other features you would love. The face-ground with long taper allows the edge to remain sharp even after months or years of use.
Once it begins to rust, contact a professional expert to sharpen your knife. But if you have a prior experience and knowledge, you can get it done yourself.
The price, however, might be costly to some homeowners and professional chefs. Its features make the price worthwhile.
Whether you have been using a low quality or ineffective chef’s knife, get it replaced with this 7-inch Global Santoku.
CONS
The knife might be costly to some customers.
Global is indeed one of the trusted and reputable names in the industry.
MAC MTH-80 - 8 Inch Professional Series Chef Knife with Dimples
- 2.5mm blade. The added dimples help the knife to glide through sticky...
- Lightweight. Knife Length- 12.63 inches
- Pakka wood handle. Blade thickness - 2.5 mm
- Hand wash is recommended Not dishwasher safe
- Made In Japan
MAC chef’s knives are one of the best-kept secrets in today’s market.
Professionals rave about these knives with celebrities, including the late Charlie Trotter and Thomas Keller.
Before, home cooks have never heard of them. Over the past few years, its popularity has drastically changed. Thanks to internet marketing, the company used it.
Features
As one of the best Japanese knives, this 8-inch professional series chef knife with dimples is a new product in the industry.
Despite that, the chef’s knife composes of harder and thinner Japanese steel with some Western-style blades.
Although it is not as appealing as Global, its sharpness is outstanding. While some knives are forged, this 8-inch professional series chef knife is highly machined.
Throughout the years of long-lasting performance, the MTH-80 Professional has been recognized as the workhorse of Mac’s product lines. It’s no surprise as the model provides a maximum sharpness and efficiency.
PROS
This 8-inch knife for chefs is available with a welded-on bolster developed to create a combination of a thin blade with additional weight. Like a German-style knife, it offers a good balance.
The handle, on the contrary, is on the slim side. This means it is a perfect choice for those who have smaller hands. While it has a small size, the quality and durability are not sacrificed to ensure the client’s satisfaction.
Compared to a Western chef knives, MAC MTH-80’s blade is unique and special. The tip is narrower. The heel is a little wide.
Measuring around 2.5mm, the steel blade glides thru potatoes, butternut squash, apples, and other sticky foods.
The knife is lightweight, making any cooking session convenient. Furthermore, it is hand washable and made in Japan.
CONS
Unfortunately, the heel of the knife is not as wide as the other German-manufactured alternatives.
Factors to Consider When Searching for the Best Chef’s Knife
Let’s be honest! Looking for the best chef’s knife is difficult. But if you know what to do, the selection process will be easier than ever.
Now, here are the factors to consider when buying the best knife:
Cost
Many homeowners are tempted to invest in the cheapest chef’s knife. But low price doesn’t guarantee efficiency and performance. It is always a better idea to direct your attention to trustworthy brands so that you may earn bigger savings.
Construction
Aside from the cost, the construction of knives should be taken into consideration.
Currently, there are two ways that knives are constructed. These are forged and stamped.
Forged knives are created when extreme heat is applied to steel. Then, they are molded into a specific shape.
Stamped knives are made with a machine. Then, they are punched out of steel. Once the steel blade is formed, the edge is sharpened.
Sharpness
A dull chef’s knife is frustrating to use. The best kitchen knives are sharp and can stay functional for a longer period of time.
Other considerations include the weight, balance, handle comfort, ease of use, maintenance, corrosion-resistance, and material.
