Several renowned chefs and television personalities rely on Wüsthof knives for their durability and traditional German blade style. Famous culinary names who use or endorse the brand include Ina Garten, Gordon Ramsay, and Ree Drummond.
Wüsthof collaborates with famous chefs worldwide including Martha Stewart (Classic range), Gordon Ramsay (Classic Ikon range), Jamie Oliver (both Classic and Ikon), James Martin (Culinar), Michael Cox, and Emeril Lagasse (Emeril) who endorse and use Wüsthof knives.
Per the Kitchn, Flay shared that he likes the Shun Classic Western Chef's Knife. He stated, "I pretty much use a chef's knife for everything and Shun is one of my very favorite brands."
Gordon Ramsay, renowned chef and television personality, is known for his culinary precision and high standards, especially when it comes to his kitchen tools. He primarily uses Henckels and Wüsthof knives, both of which are renowned brands in the culinary world.
Knife preference is a personal thing, and we're honored that so many professional chefs count WÜSTHOF among their favourite brands (including Mina Stone, Gabriel Rucker, Irene Li, Elle Simone Scott, Paul Toussaint, and Grace Ramirez). Even Ina Garten likes to give our knives a shoutout!
Neither is definitively "better," but they cater to different preferences and budgets. Wüsthof knives are generally preferred for their slightly harder steel (meaning edges last longer) and heavier, blade-forward feel. Henckels (specifically their premium Zwilling lines) offer better ergonomic balance, easier sharpening, and stronger overall value.
Bobby Flay most frequently uses Shun knives, specifically the Shun Classic Western Chef's Knife. He loves these Japanese-crafted blades for their lightweight balance and versatility. For smaller, all-around prep, he has also been known to reach for the Shun Classic Hollow-Ground Santoku.
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The Wüsthof Classic is a premium, forged knife built for heavy-duty, long-term durability, whereas the Wüsthof Gourmet is a lightweight, stamped knife designed for affordability and beginner-friendly handling.
Gordon Ramsay was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer. He underwent successful surgery to have the cancerous cells removed from his jawline and used the opportunity to share photos of his stitches and a public service announcement encouraging fans to wear sunscreen.
Anthony Bourdain famously recommended the Global G-2 8-Inch Chef’s Knife. He celebrated it in his memoir Kitchen Confidential for its lightweight design, razor-sharp edge, and ergonomic sand-filled handle, making it a perfect, affordable workhorse for both beginners and professionals.
Bobby Flay's 10-year marriage to actress Stephanie March ended in 2015 following allegations of infidelity, with reports alleging he had a three-year affair with a young assistant, Elyse Tirrell. March was reportedly left "sobbing uncontrollably" upon learning of the betrayal, and the divorce became contentious over a prenuptial agreement.
The Knives: At home, Voltaggio relies on a 9" chef knife, santoku, and 6" chef. When he's at work, he reaches for an oversized 12" chef.
Cutco and Wusthof represent two completely different philosophies in knife making.
What is Ina Garten's favorite type of Knife? Ina swears by German brand Wüsthof Classic for her kitchen knives.
When deciding between Shun and Wüsthof knives, you are essentially choosing between two distinct cutlery philosophies: razor-sharp, lightweight Japanese precision versus durable, heavy-duty German workhorses.
The Wüsthof Classic Ikon is widely considered the best overall series for its blend of high-end comfort, precision, and modern design. If you prefer traditional styling, the Wüsthof Classic remains the best entry-level premium choice, while the Wüsthof Gourmet is best for budget-conscious beginners.
When you use a WÜSTHOF knife, you can be sure that you are holding one of world's best kitchen tools in your hand. We have been developing and manufacturing our products in Solingen, Germany, the “City of Blades,” since 1814 – loyalty that pays off in the quality and reliability of our family business, knife by knife.
Best Chef Knives Overview
The kitchen knife brands in the list above—Zwilling J.A. Henckels, Wusthof, Messermeister, Global, MAC, and Shun—all have proven track records and lifetime warranties. Some have been making knives for hundreds of years. The first three brands are centered in Germany, the last three in Japan.
Bobby Flay uses a few different premium brands depending on his specific go-to at the moment, most notably favoring Japanese-style blades. His favorite recommendations include the handcrafted Shun Classic Western Chef's Knife.
If you have one chef's knife, one paring knife, and one bread knife, consider yourself equipped with thetop three knives every kitchen needs. Now it's time to find something good to cook!
Imperial pocket knife from the Duke's collection
John Wayne's personally-owned and -used vintage circa 1973 Imperial 'Diamond Edge' (858 DE) two-blade pocket knife, measuring 4″ closed and 7″ open.
De Laurentiis has also gone on record saying her favorite chef's knife is a Japanese santoku knife, which has a shorter, thinner blade than a traditional chef's knife.
In the high-end folding knife community, the original "Holy Trinity" refers to three legendary American makers who pioneered the modern premium tactical folder. Together, their designs set the gold standard for durability and precision.
HENCKELS Nola knives are fully forged from high-quality German stainless steel for precise slicing. Curved for comfort, the triple-rivet handles provide an ergonomic grip for tireless cutting, and are adorned with Emeril's signature “E” logo.