Sakai Takayuki Shironi Honyaki Yanagiba 270mm

For this knife we specially requested the material and quenching method, blacksmith, and sharpener. There really are no other knives like these ones and they are a great addition to any serious collector’s kitchen. Just because they’re fancy doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use them. Read more about this knife here.

About the Shape - The Yanagiba is a slicer’s dream. Graceful, sexy, and capable of amazing sharpness, you’ll find a Yanigiba in the hands of every sushi chef worth their salt. Yanagi means “willow leaf” and refers to this knife’s long, narrow shape. The Yanagiba is a traditional Japanese blade that is only sharpened on one side, which is called “single bevel”, and allows it to cut more precisely than other blades. Traditionally used for slicing sashimi, they are equally at home with roast beef, ham, or calf’s liver. Once you go Yanagiba, you’ll never go back.

About Sakai Takayuki - Sakai Takayuki is well-known as the largest knife maker in Sakai. The company hosts a number of blacksmiths and craftsmen who work together to create a huge array of knives. Although the Sakai region traditionally specializes in single-bevel blades, Sakai Takayuki makes many different shapes.
The most famous blacksmith at the company is Itsuo Doi - they have built a factory for him to work in and produce his art. The collective is also host to the knife-sharpening Yamatsuka family.