Japanese knives are coveted for their beautiful and detailed design, as well as the cuts they produce. Their blades are typically thin and delicate, and prone to breaking if you don’t take care of them properly — not ideal for the clumsy chef.
There’s a question we hear constantly, usually whispered with a mix of curiosity and concern: “Is a £300 knife actually worth it?” And we get it. Three hundred quid is serious money. You could buy a whole set of decent knives for that. Or a new coat. Or several nice dinners out. So let’s talk […]
When you first see a Damascus knife, the reaction is almost always the same. That mesmerizing wave pattern catches your eye, those flowing lines that seem to move across the blade like water. It’s the kind of beauty that makes you pause, that makes you want to touch the steel and trace those patterns with […]
When it comes to upgrading your kitchen tools, Japanese knives represent one of the most transformative investments you can make. But with dozens of traditional blade types—each designed for specific tasks. Choosing the right Japanese knife for home cooking can feel overwhelming. Which knife truly delivers the best value, versatility, and performance for everyday home […]
Japanese knives represent centuries of refinement, with each blade shape evolved to perfection for specific culinary tasks. Unlike Western knife sets that often include multiple redundant pieces, every Japanese knife type serves a distinct purpose, born from the precision and specialisation inherent in Japanese cooking culture. In this guide, we’ll explore every major Japanese knife […]
If you’ve recently installed a magnetic knife rack, you’ve probably encountered a surprisingly heated debate: Should you hang your knives with the blade pointing up or down? It’s one of those kitchen questions that seems simple but sparks passionate opinions. Food bloggers insist blade-down is safer. Professional chefs often prefer blade-up. And plenty of experienced […]
Whether you’re a complete beginner stepping into the kitchen for the first time or a seasoned home cook looking to upgrade your knife game, understanding kitchen knives can transform your entire cooking experience. A good knife isn’t just a tool—it’s an extension of your hand, a precision instrument that can make the difference between tedious […]
The brown delivery van pulls away from your doorstep, leaving behind a package that weighs more than you expected. Inside that unassuming shipping box lies months of obsessive attention to detail, countless prototypes, and a level of perfectionism that borders on the unreasonable. This is the story of what really goes into creating your Oishya […]
Among the vast family of Japanese knives, the Nakiri (菜切り包丁) holds a special place — particularly among chefs who value precision, ease, and beauty in vegetable prep. Its simple, clean lines and purpose-built design make it a beloved tool in kitchens around the world. Whether you’re a professional or a passionate home cook, the Nakiri […]
When a knife becomes part of your daily cooking ritual, it does more than cut food — it shapes how you cook, how you feel at the counter, and the memories that meal prep makes possible. At Oishya, we believe kitchen tools should be crafted to last and used to spark joy. That’s why knowing […]
Kitchen knives are more than just cutting tools—they’re the bridge between ingredients and inspiration, the instruments that transform raw potential into culinary art. Yet despite their fundamental importance in every kitchen, most home cooks know surprisingly little about what makes one knife different from another. The truth is, all knives are decidedly not equal. The […]
Getting into Japanese knives is akin to discovering a world where culinary tradition meets artistic craftsmanship. As you start this new chapter, picture the countless meals, the bursts of creativity, and the sense of achievement that lie ahead. At Oishya, we believe that choosing the right knife isn’t just about picking a tool – it’s […]
For passionate home cooks seeking to elevate their culinary experience, understanding different knife styles is key to finding the perfect kitchen companion. Let’s explore four versatile Japanese knife types, each with its unique strengths and characteristics. Kiritsuke: The Chef’s Sword The Kiritsuke is a multi-purpose blade that combines elements of other Japanese knives: Shape: Long, […]
For the culinary enthusiast seeking to elevate their home kitchen to professional-grade status, few purchases are more worthy of consideration than a premium, handcrafted Japanese kitchen knife. These blades represent the ultimate intersection of ultra-sharp performance, low-maintenance practicality, and generations of highly-refined metal- and blade-smithing traditions. However, one of the key decisions faced when selecting […]
The world of Japanese kitchen knives is a captivating realm where centuries-old traditions intersect with modern culinary innovation. As you embark on this journey, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to invest in an individual knife or a complete set. This choice can seem daunting, especially for those new to the intricacies […]
In the annals of Japanese history, few traditions command as much reverence as the forging of Ni-honto, the legendary Japanese swords that have captured the imagination of warriors, scholars and collectors alike. These extraordinary blades, born from the exacting processes of firing and folding rare steel, are not mere weapons; they are living embodiments of […]
In the world of culinary arts, the choice of tools is as vital as the ingredients used. Among these tools, Japanese knives are highly esteemed for their exceptional craftsmanship and performance. This article explores these exquisite knives, with a focus on the renowned Sakai Kyuba and Seki Kyuba ranges, offered by Oishya, a provider of […]
The timeless allure of Damascus steel Damascus steel, a term that evokes images of ancient warriors and exquisite craftsmanship, remains one of the most fascinating materials in metallurgy. Its distinctive wavy pattern, not just aesthetically captivating but also a marker of exceptional quality, continues to intrigue both historians and craftsmen alike. This legendary steel, known […]
So, you’ve decided to upgrade your kitchenware, moved to a new house, or perhaps you’ve heard that Japanese knives make the perfect, personal gift? You’re in for a treat! Japanese knives are not just tools; they’re a gateway to a world of culinary craftsmanship, precision, and tradition. Whether you’re a passionate home cook, an adventurous […]
As a woman who loves to cook, you understand the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating delicious meals for yourself and your loved ones. Cooking is not just about nourishment; it’s a creative outlet, a form of self-expression, and an opportunity to share unforgettable moments. To fully embrace this culinary journey and elevate your […]
In the world of culinary artistry, a high-quality cooking knife serves as an essential tool for chefs and home cooks alike. When selecting the perfect knife, factors such as ergonomic design, lightweight maneuverability, precision cutting, and durability come into play. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the realm of rust-resistant cooking knives, delving into […]
Women have always played a vital role in the kitchen, and their passion for cooking has inspired many innovative kitchen utensils. Among these tools are Japanese knives, known for their excellence in precision, sharpness, and design. From the hands of skilled Japanese artisans, these knives have been crafted for centuries using unique techniques that make […]
Japanese knives are renowned for their exceptional sharpness and precision in cutting. They are an essential tool in any chef’s kitchen and require proper care and maintenance to keep them performing at their best. In this article, we will delve into the world of Japanese knives and explore the various types available, as well as […]
If you are looking to purchase a new kitchen knife you have probably encountered two important knife types: Western and Japanese kitchen knives. In today’s article, we asked professional Chef Olivia Burt to talk to us about Western vs Japanese knives and her preferences. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JfhWOp66kbA In Chef Olivia’s words: What I love about Japanese knives […]
When you hold an Oishya knife, you’re not just grasping a culinary tool – you’re connecting with ancient history. Every Sakai Kyuba knife features bog oak that has been naturally preserved for over 2,500 years, making each handle a unique piece of living history that predates the Roman Empire. But what exactly is bog oak, […]
As a team of foodies working at a Oishya, we often get asked about whether it’s better to invest in a kitchen knife set or individual knives when starting out. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, we’re here to share some tips and insights to help you make an informed decision that works best for […]
Before we can go into the details of each wood type, we must identify what makes wooden handles so good. So why opt for wooden handles? Wood is natural material that is warm to the touch, comfortable to hold and long lasting. Therefore, it is no surprise that wood has been widely used as a […]
Japanese knives have become an essential kitchen tool for any chef or home cook. But what exactly is it that makes Japanese knives so good? Are they really better than Western knives? The blade’s hardness There are two ways to make a Japanese knife: honyaki or kasumi. Where, honyaki involves using solid high-carbon steel whilst kasumi forges a […]
Selecting the best Japanese kitchen knife for your needs Is it your first every proper knife? If yes, then go for a gyuto, it’s a multi-purpose knife. Once you feel more confident, you can compliment your set with nakiri (ideal for fruit, veggies) and petty (utility knife, a small knife for all the rest of […]
A bit of a knife history… The city of Sakai is situated by the Osaka bay at the Japanese main island. It is said that the foundations for knife making were laid down as early as the fifth century AD. That is when the great mounds, the Kofun, were built. This required excellent tools, which […]