Mercer Millenia M22707 7-Inch Santoku Knife
Bentgo All-in-One Stackable Lunch/Bento Box
One other note, this is a new company and their website is still going through growing pains. There are a number of broken links and other issues. That said, their customer service does respond to emails pretty quickly.I love my Bentgo! I was getting tired of using ziplock bags (too much waste) as well as glass containers (too clunky) and mismatched plastic containers (well okay. I realize that's just fine and functional, but I wanted something *sleek*, you know?). Hunting for Bento boxes online, I decided to go for the Bentgo as my first Bento to see if the Bento lifestyle worked for me.
The price point is phenomenal for the size and quality. Go ahead and do a Google search for Bento box providers and you'll see what I mean. I found that, for about this price, you could get big Bento boxes that weren't microwave or dishwasher safe, or you could get teeny Bento boxes made out of durable, food-safe plastics. Now you see why I picked the Bentgo a decent sized Bento that is microwave, dishwasher, fridge, and freezer safe, as well as BPA-free for under $15! Wow!
Now for the Bentgo's performance. I LOVE this thing. I know some have mentioned they would like the size to be a little larger, but I have no qualms here. I normally put a leftover meal (i.e. chicken and rice something or other, pasta with a thick sauce, etc) in the lower compartment, with cold fruit and veggies in the top divided portion. I have also been able to pack a sandwich in the lower compartment if I cut it diagonally and situate the pieces so that they fit. I haven't had any situations where I wish I could pack more food in the Bentgo or anything like that. That's considering my usual lunchtime appetite, so YMMV. I'm not normally one to take salads for lunch, so I can't speak to how it works for salads, and that's where I have seen most people have issues with the Bentgo.
As far as the Bentgo's watertightness goes, I have not had any issues here, either so far. For thicker sauces, such as a thicker dressing (ranch, thousand island, etc) and some pasta sauces that aren't particularly viscous such as spaghetti sauce or thicker Alfredo's and pestos should not present any problems at all, really. As long as you're not replacing your football with your Bentgo or tossing it gleefully into the air as you walk, these sauces shouldn't come loose. I wouldn't recommend packing any oil and vinegar or broth-based soups in this thing, as they recommend against it, and I can see why. The silicone barrier seals well enough, but not completely, and the same goes for the upper lid. I have packed saucy dishes and ranch dressing in my Bentgo and have had no problems at all as long as I keep it upright.
The strap also works well and fulfills its duties admirably: it appears to be strong, durable, and does it's job keeping the two compartments fitted together well.
My only nit-picky item would be that the silicone barrier does stain, but it washes clean completely with just the stain left behind. This is purely cosmetic, and not anything I am concerned with at all, but it's worth mentioning. A simple bleach followed with a boil may take care of this issue, but I haven't tried that yet. Also, the utensils do pop out occasionally, but not always (for me). If they do pop out, I have found they do still keep the utensils in place during transit, they just aren't stuck in there.
The Bentgo delivered on everything I was looking for in a Bento: size, ease, and durable plasticity. I am now happily enjoying the Bento lifestyle, thanks to the Bentgo!
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I got these on sale, but still feel I may have overpaid.1st: The utensils are neat, but don't fit very well in the slots and therefor don't stay secure in my experience. Plus, the fork tines are fairly wide, so I actually don't even bother to use any of them.
2nd: The band (by design) fits tightly. This is good, however it's a bit tricky to get on the set.
3rd: I've been using one for about a week. I washed it in the dishwasher initially and have hand washed each day since. The top box now has warped a bit around the center divider and the lid does not like to stay on at this point. I can get it on and as long as I put the band over it immediately, it still works. So even though they're dishwasher and microwave safe, the top box will warp.
If you are still interested in this product, my advice is to use the separated section for cold foods and hand wash that.
tl;dr utensils are crappy and the separated section will warp with heat.
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I use this every single day and I love it! Just adds some convenience to my hectic lifestyle. Would definitely buy again......and again......and again....Convenient! Small enough not to be a hassle to carry but big enough to store food plus it looks cute! Has utensils inside and even came with a coupon for me to get another strap for free in case I lose the original :)Core Bamboo Aster Collection Bamboo Cutting Board with Non Slip Grip
The green rubber feet work well to keep the board stable and off of the counter surface. I am happy to have a board where I have two surfaces to use! One flat and the other with a drip groove to collect the juices. Actually the rubber feet they use are a ingenious design. I wonder if they will give any problems down the road... I'm worried they may dry and crack or something. Again, only time will tell.
Overall I am very pleased, the size is perfect for us next to our sink, and over all it seems very well put together.
I'll report back and update my review if I have any major problems with the board.
4/21/2012: This cutting board is great. It's still going strong and a year and a half later it still looks great. I oil it about every 3 or 4 months and it comes back to live wonderfully. Rubber corner grips look the same as the day we first got it. I have no concerns now about the ability of this board to hold up over time. We use it everyday, several times a day in our busy home.
It has a few cutting marks in it but nothing severe. I would say that we will use this for at least several more years to come.
If it is the size you want or need, Buy It! By the way, they're customer service is, courteous and responsive as well!
Buy Core Bamboo Aster Collection Bamboo Cutting Board with Non Slip Grip Now
Oneida Voss 45-Piece Flatware Set, Service for 8
Douglas Quikut 4859 Ginsu 5-Piece Stainless Knife Prep Set, Natural
Buy Douglas Quikut 4859 Ginsu 5-Piece Stainless Knife Prep Set, Natural Now
Ginsu 4859 5 piece Stainless prep setThese knives are amazing for the price. You can't beat it! They are sturdy, cut amazingly well, never need to be sharpened and I haven't had any problems with rust! I never put them in the dishwasher because I know that they would probably start to rust. Its so easy just to hand wash them. Nothing will stick to the blade so its an easy rinse wipe and your done! For anyone looking to buy great knives but don't want to spend a lot of dough, this is the buy for sure!
Read Best Reviews of Douglas Quikut 4859 Ginsu 5-Piece Stainless Knife Prep Set, Natural Here
These are possibly the sharpest knives that I have ever used in my life!! Apparently all these years I've been using dull/below average knives. The reason that I did not give 5 stars is because the block that it comes with is not truly made for these knives. They fit so-so into the slots. The smallest knife we actually had to force into the smallest slot. Other than that I would recommend these knives!! Fantastic!Want Douglas Quikut 4859 Ginsu 5-Piece Stainless Knife Prep Set, Natural Discount?
Its a nice set for the price. They cut nicely, are weighted nicely and are attractive and the block is attractive and takes up the minimal space I had for it.Mountain Woods Acacia Wood Cutting Board with Steel Band
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I was looking for a good quality very thick cutting board that was dark wood and stainless steel trim so I could leave out on my counter all the time and it would look nice. I found it, this is exactly what I wanted and I proudly leave it out for everyone to see next to my new knives in a matching block. Looks like a chef kitchen to me. I keep it in tip top shape with special conditioner designed for wood that is food safe. The handle on one side is just slightly bent, most people wouldn't notice, but I'm very pickey and notice what others usually would not...otherwise I'd give it 5 stars.Read Best Reviews of Mountain Woods Acacia Wood Cutting Board with Steel Band Here
This product was received in a timely manner and was just what expected when opened. Beautiful! Great Price! Won't regret this purchase.Want Mountain Woods Acacia Wood Cutting Board with Steel Band Discount?
The cutting board is pretty but flawed.The metal band is not tight against the wood. In several places, it's loose enough to catch something, like fingers and hands. Since the metal edge is also very sharp, I managed to cut myself four times before I finally threw the blasted thing away.
Wenger Swibo 12-1/4-Inch Butcher Knife, Rigid Blade with pointed Tip
Gourmet Settings Silver Tear Stainless Steel Cocktail Forks set of 4.
small bites which are necessary in the recovery process. They are highly durable and wash great in the dishwasher.
They will fit in a toothbrush holder so you can take to restaurants or for a brown bag lunch.These cocktail forks are wonderful. I ordered them for a small party I was hosting and they were just perfect for the appetizers I served. They look pretty and they are comfortable in the hand, considering that they are small. The forks are also easy to wash and care for. I was quite pleased with this product.
Buy Gourmet Settings Silver Tear Stainless Steel Cocktail Forks set of 4. Now
I have the Gourmet Settings Silver Tear silverware set, so when I saw the matching mini spreaders, mini forks, and mini spoons I had to have them! I've had them for a couple years now and they're heavy duty; none of my silverware has bent out of shape. Overall, great buy!Read Best Reviews of Gourmet Settings Silver Tear Stainless Steel Cocktail Forks set of 4. Here
I use these forks to take small bites of food for weight loss reasons. It fits in my hand great, too.Want Gourmet Settings Silver Tear Stainless Steel Cocktail Forks set of 4. Discount?
We ordered four sets of cocktail forks. We used our cocktail forks over the holidays and received rave reviews. We are considering ordering other utensils. I would recommend.Lenox Venetian Lace 5-Piece Flatware Place Set
Wusthof Classic 3-1/2-Inch Paring Knife
Like all the knives in the Wusthof Classic line, this knife is fully tanged and bolstered. The tang extends into the handle and offsets the weight of the blade, and the bolster sits on your index finger to provide the fulcrum point. The result is a knife that is remarkably responsive and balanced. Some reviewers prefer the larger utility knife to this 3.5 inch parer. This knife is lighter and shorter, and therefore provides a balance point that is more comfortable for a smaller hand.
If you want the full arsenal of Wusthof prep knives, get the bird's-beak parer for digging the eyes out of potatoes and the stems out of peppers, get the serrated utility knife for slicing citrus and tomatoes, get the trimming knife for cutting off stems and boo-boos, and get the utility or boning knife for for slicing and meat prep. But if you just want to buy one, get this one.I strongly advise people to get GOOD knives. You don't end up with a drawer of junk, and you will grab for this one probably more than any other in the kitchen. This is my workhorse, and I love Wusthof knives. I've had a set for 20 years, and only replaced my paring knife because it was missing from my set after a move. I do everything with this, peel vegetables, cut dice, slice or dice onions.
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I received this paring knife (included in the course fee) when I took a Wusthof knife skills course at a local shop. It's everything a knife should be sharp, solid, well-balanced, and a comfortable fit in the hand. Wusthof got the proportions of the classic-style handle about right; not too fine, not too chunky... just right for comfort and control. After the course I gave it to my mother, who was surprised at its sharpness. (I already owned a Henckels Pro-S 3" paring knife, which has a slightly longer handle... IMO the two knives are similar in quality.)This is also the knife that inspired a friend who finally bought one to exclaim, "I'm surprised you didn't say, 'You call that a knife????? THIS is a knife!' when you were using my (old, stamped, serrated) knives!" She now understands my addiction to forged German steel.
As always, it's best to try several knives in person and see how they fit your hand before buying, but it would be hard to go wrong with this one.
Read Best Reviews of Wusthof Classic 3-1/2-Inch Paring Knife Here
Undoubtedly the most often used knife in my kitchen, and the one I absolutely cannot do without. The Wusthof Classic paring knife has a 3-1/2-inch blade that's perfect for small cutting jobs and peeling. (It's pointed tip pops eyes out of potatoes!)Whether slicing lemons, quartering an apple, or taking a nibble from our favorite cheese block, this is always the knife I reach for. It's quality is unsurpassable--it's forged to precision and perfectly balanced.
Wusthof has been producing quality cutlery for almost 200 years--it's a product you can rely on!
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Having already owned two of the larger Wustof Classic knives it wasn't a difficult decision to buy this one when the price came down to $29.After buying some hard beets at the farmers market I grabbed a knife from a good enough set, took one slice then remembered this new knife was in the drawer. The difference in slicing between a good enough knife and this one was the difference between good enough and outstanding.
Rada Cutlery W211 Ham Slicer Knife
Messermeister 4" Parer Edge-Guard
Buy Messermeister 4" Parer Edge-Guard Now
This is a piece of plastic that will tightly cover the business end of your knife and prevent you from reaching into a drawer and slicing your hand open...what more can I say about it? It does what it's supposed to do. I think all of these knife guards are over priced for what they are. Buy a set of them if you want to save a few dollars.Made of a hard, thick plastic these covers slip over the blade of a knife and pinch it's spine in order to stay on. If you're just using these to store your knives in a drawer I'd say it's just fine. For traveling it'll probably work just as well as long as the knives are wrapped in something. You see, the guards can slip off somewhat if they're moved too much (say, if I hold the handle and swing the blade a little). They are other edge guards that clasp shut and don't really have this problem, but that doesn't keep me from recommending this product especially given the price.Every time I purchase a new professional knife, I purchase one of these to cover the blade so I can put it in my drawer and not worry about the blade being damaged or me being cut. Highly recommend.Joyce Chen 51-0621, 6-1/4-Inch Unlimited Scissors
I actually don't think I could cook without a pair of these in the kitchen. They are the best thing I've found for snipping a few fresh herbs, and can go right to the garden to cut fresh flowers for the dinner table. I have also used them to cut through chicken bones and then tossed them into the dishwasher for sanitizing. If I were to make a list of my favorite kitchen items, these would be right up there with my microplane grater and extra long cooking tweezers that also make my life so much simpler. Bottom line is buy some, you'll love them!I heard about these scissors from another student in my metalsmithing class. She raved about them and showed me how great they are for cutting sheet metal. When I got home I the first thing I did was go online and order them. They arrived before my next class the following Saturday. I absolutely LOVE them!!
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These are the second pair of Joyce Chen scissors that I've purchased. The first on is still going strong, but they are now used for the workshop. These scissors stay sharp and strong, and are indispensable in the kitchen. My wife nagged me to quit using her old pair in my workshop, so I stole them and bought her these new ones. That'll teach her...Read Best Reviews of Joyce Chen 51-0621, 6-1/4-Inch Unlimited Scissors Here
I own three or four pairs of these scissors and wouldn't be without them. A marvel of simple, elegant design, they are tough, sharp, versatile, and comfortable. The large handle loops let you use all four fingers on one side and your whole thumb on the other -they work the same for lefties and righties -or, for even more leverage, you can grab them by the outsides of the handles, which are covered with a rubbery plastic for comfort. When I got my first pair about 25 years ago (still have 'em) I used to show off by using them to cut bottle caps in half. Yet they'll cut paper cleanly. We keep my old pair in the garden for cutting greens, pruning tomatoes, cutting twine and the like, a pair in the junk drawer for all-purpose cutting, and one in the kitchen for everything from slicing open spice packets to cutting up poultry. Can't have too many of these.Want Joyce Chen 51-0621, 6-1/4-Inch Unlimited Scissors Discount?
I have a pair of these scissors that is 35 years old, still cutting. They cut everything from plant stems to leather to food products and plastics! Quite wonderfulPom Handle Bread Knife - 10"
Progressive International Set of 6 Chopping Mats
Recommended, but with these limitations: (1) Because they are so thin, you don't want to put anything hot onto them -they will warp. (2) Because they are so light, they can slide around the counter. These limitations eventually made me switch to much more expensive, thick, rubber-footed cutting boards -but only after a long period using these with good results.I purchased these because they were highly recommended by Cooks Illustrated. The best chopping mats I've used to-date. Love the individual colored mats for fish, meat, veggies, etc.....helps avoid cross contamination. Will purchase sets for my children when they go out on their own.
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You can chop on these then bend them to pour into whatever dish you're making. Plus, the multiple set allows you to chop veggies, meat, chocolate, etc. and not have to clean or worry about cross contamination. They easily fit into the dishwasher. Best purchase for the kitchen.Read Best Reviews of Progressive International Set of 6 Chopping Mats Here
At first glance, these seemed like sturdy cutting mats. But the larger size will not stay flat they curl, making them useless. Cheap price, cheap product.Want Progressive International Set of 6 Chopping Mats Discount?
These chopping mats are useless and a total waste of money. They curl on the sides so that they don't lie flat making them impossible to cut on. And the curling only gets worse if you put them in the dishwasher (they are supposed to be dishwasher safe). I'm throwing them out and looking for another set.ZHEN Japanese VG-10 Damascus Fruit Paring Knife, 3.5-Inch
Shun Kaji Fusion 8-Inch Chef's Knife
Here are my observations after several months of use:
The substantial blade is razor sharp-and has stayed that way. It slices through tomatoes and london broil like a hot blade through butter-no "sawing" motion required. I typically have a knife for each job around the kitchen, but this knife does the job of several, quite easily.
I was initially surprised how well the handle fit in my hand. The handle has grooves where you fingers rest, and I thought that perhaps they would feel oddly placed, as my hands are quite small. This wasn't a problem... and the knife felt very natural.
I did a little research, and read that the design of this handle is unique in that it places your hand in "the perfect position in relation to the blade for less effort and fatigue." Hmmm... I don't know if I have ever felt "fatigue" while using my other knives, but I do see now how I was never holding the handle properly,forcing the knife with pressure to cut, chop and slice. Knife-science...who knew?!?!
I find that my other knives are getting little use in my kitchen. I reach for this knife again and again.
I'm hinting to my husband that another knife in this line would make a great Christmas gift.Overall sharp blade, good heft and right size. If you take care of this knife it will last a lifetime.
Handle: I have small hands and honestly some knifes have such a long handle it feels a bit awkward. When I used this knife, I felt like Goldilocks, it was the right size. The handle has these grooves which helps with placement of your fingers, allowing you to cut with minimal effort. I was able to cut thin slices of salami without thought and no sawing motion. With my other chef's knife, I always had to concentrate on the right placement as it did not feel natural. No such worries with this one.
Blade: Aesthetic wise, I love the designlooks like it could have come right out of my Fable game. The blade is very sharp and it cut through the Thanksgiving ham as if it was butter with minimal sawing motion.
Weight: There is a good weight to the knife, heavy enough to be substantial but not so heavy that it is burdensome.
The knife is expensive but worth it because it is a great staple knife that will work for the majority of your needs in the kitchen.
Buy Shun Kaji Fusion 8-Inch Chef's Knife Now
I admit that I have a bit of a steel fetish which is limited by financial restraints. That being said, I took a chance and treated myself to the Shun Kaji Fusion. The shipping was quick and tonight I had an opportunity to use the knife to cut potatoes for home made french fries. I have used Wustoff knives for many years in the kitchen and have been satisfied. This however was a completely new cutting sensation. Very minimal pressure was required to glide through the russet potatoes and the pieces did not stick at all. I have larger hands (6'8") and the knife fit very well, my wife (5'2") tried the Shun and she was amazed at how balanced it was, which speaks to the manufacturing of the implement. Expensive...yes, but fit, form and finish are immaculate. If you want to cut a tree...a can and then have to slice a tomato perhaps not. If you want a knife that will be a cherished, beyond surgically sharp and designed to last generations, look no further.Read Best Reviews of Shun Kaji Fusion 8-Inch Chef's Knife Here
I bought this on a lightning deal, and was a bit hesitant since the price was still much more than I ever thought I would spend on a knife! Let me tell you, I do not regret my purchase at all! This knife is wonderful! Its extremely sharp and the handle has a nice grip with grooves, so I dont ever feel like the knife will slip. Its a good weight, heavy enough to know its not something flimsy, but not overwhelming. I have owned one other Shun knife, and both are FANTASTIC!Have had this for over a year and has stayed very sharp. It has a yearly "free" sharpening but I don't find that it needs it, especially since I am extra careful with it. Feels very stable with use. Had gotten a great lightning deal; might not have paid usual price for this handsome knife.BUILT Neoprene Spicy Relish Lunch Tote, Mini Dot, Navy
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Roomy for filling up containers of food, washable in case it gets dirty, and has durable strap. Its also pretty!Read Best Reviews of BUILT Neoprene Spicy Relish Lunch Tote, Mini Dot, Navy Here
A little pricey but worth the extra $. I love the size of the bag, the fact that the material stretches and that it is machine washable.It's also cute, so you don't have to look like a dork carrying around reused shopping bags.
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I was looking for a lunch tote but I wanted one with a long strap. This definitely fulfilled my needs and it looks cute.HIC Brands that Cook Mango Slicer
Ginsu 7134 Signature Series 9-Piece Steak Knife Set
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/home-garden/kitchen/kitchen-knives/kitchen-knives-ratings/models/overview/ginsu-chikara-99023867.htm
From the About.com review, "This set looked good on paper, but out of the box it's absolutely stunning...The Ginsu Chikara cutlery not only looks beautiful but performs much better than expected. It has the makings of a durable, high-quality knife set with blades that will hold their edges well and look nice for a long time...It presents well and would make a lovely affordable gift...I like the look, feel and efficiency of these knives...The free lifetime sharpening is also very nice.Ordered these two weeks ago. Zero feedback on when they will be available. Communication lines completely dead on this one. Suggest you pass . . . . .

