In the market for a new set of knives and don’t want to spend an arm and a leg? Of course, you could go to any kitchen supply store or big-box retailer and grab yourself a set for cheap but if you’re looking for quality, you might want to read on. Over here at WanderEater, we’re all about knowing when to spend and when you can save and trust us — you don’t want to skimp on knives. If you take really good care of your knives, you’ll have them forever and when buying a set, you truly do get what you pay for. Now obviously we’d all splurge if we could but times are tight and that’s why the launch of Kilne Cookware is so exciting.
Founded by Mike Gettis, who’s also known for founding mattress empire Endy, and Noelle Hjelte, Kilne is all about delivering a better product at a better price. The brand’s first product is their 6-piece knife set that features a chef’s knife, Santoku knife, bread knife, paring knife, detachable kitchen shears, and sharpening steel. Plus it also includes a gorgeous wooden block. If you’re curious about if these knives are chef-approved, know that star Chefs Claudio Aprile and Suzanne Barr have tested them out and they’re fans too so you know the knives are the real deal.
Wondering what we think of the Kilne Cookware Knife Set? Keep on reading to find out. Plus, get to know the brand’s founders Mike and Noelle.
Upon receiving the knife set, I was instantly impressed. First off, my order arrived very quickly which, in today’s COVID era, is practically unheard of and the shipping was free — extra win! As I unpacked each knife and gave it a quick wash, I noticed the weight of the knives and was extremely pleased that they didn’t feel too light. I always like to feel a bit of weight in my hand when slicing and dicing as I feel it helps garner control and precision.
My most-used knife in my kitchen is easily a chef’s knife. As someone who is very comfortable using a large blade with speed, I need something that can get through everything from butternut squash, to steak with ease and let’s just say that Kilne’s chef’s knife did not disappoint.
I fired through my dinner prep in no time and even used the shears to finely cut some herbs as well. I don’t normally use scissors while cooking but I’m glad they’re part of the set because now I’m hooked.
All in all, I’m absolutely in love with this knife set. You get all the knives your kitchen needs and they sit proudly and safely in the wooden block. Some knife blocks are massive but I really appreciate that this one is skinnier because in my condo kitchen, I need all the counter space I can get.
Now, meet Kilne Cookware’s founders Mike and Noelle.
WanderEater: Congratulations on the launch of Kilne! What was the driving force behind side-stepping into the culinary world?
Mike: After we had two kids, we started upgrading our kitchen essentials and saw very
quickly that to get quality products you need to pay pretty big price tags. We saw the
opportunity to not only improve on knives specifically but to pass along substantial
value to our customers.
WE: What is it about Kilne that sets the knives apart from other knife sets?
Mike: The quality of our steel. It’s some of the best German steel available. As a result,
the knives have a strong weight and make chopping a breeze.
WE: Why was it important for you to partner with Chefs Claudio Aprile and Suzanne Barr?
Noelle: Having their culinary expertise was great for testing and launching the knives.
Working with some of Canada’s best chefs was important to us in order to develop the
highest quality tools for the home cook.
WE: Through this new launch have you gotten into the kitchen yourself? What do you like to cook?
Noelle: With two young kids we both end up in the kitchen a lot- usually preparing snacks and
quick family meals, part of the inspiration for Kilne. We definitely end up using the
knives every day!
WE: Which knife from the collection do you use the most? Do you have a favourite?
Noelle: My favourite is the paring knife. It’s so sharp and precise. I also end up using the bread knife a lot — I discovered through one of our chefs that it’s also great for cutting watermelon which is a hit at our home.
Mike: I love the Santoku knife. The blade is a bit thinner like Japanese knives so it makes it the perfect workhorse chopper.
Feature Image: Kilne Cookware