Finding the right kitchen knife is like finding the perfect pair of boots—everyone has their own personal favourite that just fits. We asked our team in Toronto about their go-to Japanese kitchen knives, and their picks did not disappoint. Whether you’re looking for a gift or simply want to upgrade your own kit, these are the blades that our crew can’t live without.
The Kobayashi SG2 150mm Petty is basically a small gyuto with the cutting feel of a laser. It’s my go-to for fine herbs and precision work. The length is just right, making it nimble and effortless to maneuver. Plus, Kobayashi’s sharpening skills are next-level—this thing comes out of the box ridiculously sharp and stays that way for a long time. If you want the same petty, but with a bit more kick visually, the Kobayashi SG2 Damascus 150mm Petty is also a wicked option.
The Masakage Koishi was the first knife I fell in love with, and let me tell you—it’s still perfect. The finish, the performance, the handle—everything just works. The Aogami Super core clad in stainless steel is my ideal combo, giving me top-tier edge retention without the headache of full-carbon steel maintenance. If you want a high-performance workhorse, this is the one.
If you want a laser, this is it. The Takamura Akagouhan 210mm Gyuto is thin, sharp, and incredibly nimble. It’s also a great choice for those who prefer a Western handle but still want that refined Japanese cutting experience. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to take care of because of its powdered stainless steel construction, making it a fantastic first step into high-end Japanese knives.
The Masashi Kokuen 135mm Ko-Bunka is the perfect balance of nimble and powerful. It has a scalpel-like precision that makes every cut feel effortless. And let’s be honest—it just looks cool. The handle is a dream to hold, and the overall craftsmanship makes it a knife I keep reaching for. SLD is a great steel and the way Masashi-san heat treats, is the best, bar-none.
I love supporting young blacksmiths at the start of their careers, especially when they make knives that feel as personal as the Miyazaki Ko-Hakata. Miyazaki san’s work blends elegant, modern shapes with deeply traditional techniques. The simple but stunning flower maker’s mark caught my eye, and the blade itself is a dream to use. Plus, hearing that his lunch on workdays is just a pack of cigarettes reminded me of those long shifts in restaurants where smoke breaks were the only break we got. This knife carries that same relentless energy.
The Ryusen Blazen Ryu 240mm Gyuto is sleek, simple, and fierce. Its stainless steel construction makes it super low-maintenance while still holding an edge for ages. And the Canadian walnut handle? Absolutely stunning. The subtle taper in the handle makes it one of the most comfortable knives I’ve ever used. If you want a blade that looks as good as it performs, this is the one.
A knife should perform, but it should also look dope—and the Hado Sumi 210mm Gyuto checks both boxes for me. This knife is the result of an exclusive collaboration between Knifewear and HADO Sakai, bringing together traditional craftsmanship and modern refinement. The extremely high bevel, its laser-like feel when cutting, the polished spine, and the oak handle make this knife truly stand out. This one’s for those who appreciate the finer details in a blade. It is prone to rust, but once that layer of protective patina forms—ooh la la, it’s beautiful!
There you have it—our Toronto team’s absolute favourite Japanese kitchen knives. Whether you’re after something big, small, flashy, or functional, there’s a blade here for everyone. Got a favourite knife of your own? Let us know, we’re always looking for more knives to obsess over!
There are many hidden, unknown and remote blacksmiths in Japan. Once upon a time, Kisuke Manaka-san was one of them. I first discovered his beautiful works of knife art on his Instagram...
There are many hidden, unknown and remote blacksmiths in Japan. Once upon a time, Kisuke Manaka-san was one of them. I first discovered his beautiful works of knife art on his Instagram...
Christmas is coming! I love gift-giving, but rather than filling up my loved one’s stocking with random junk, I like to give gifts they can use, items that provide a...
Christmas is coming! I love gift-giving, but rather than filling up my loved one’s stocking with random junk, I like to give gifts they can use, items that provide a...
Few will admit that gift-giving is the competition it actually is—family wargames centered on LED-flickering pines and buttresses of ribbon-wrapped parcels—surrender never an option, everyone desperate to rise above the...
Few will admit that gift-giving is the competition it actually is—family wargames centered on LED-flickering pines and buttresses of ribbon-wrapped parcels—surrender never an option, everyone desperate to rise above the...
As someone who’s verged on being a hoarder in the past, I really loathe clutter. As a result, I’ve worked hard to get my kitchen, my wardrobe, my toolkit, etc.,...
As someone who’s verged on being a hoarder in the past, I really loathe clutter. As a result, I’ve worked hard to get my kitchen, my wardrobe, my toolkit, etc.,...
