There’s nothing as frustrating as having to manage a terrible dinner knife for a special delicacy that you’ve been craving.
The quality of your dinner knife can also influence the satisfaction you derive from your dining.
Without mincing words, if you want to dine with better satisfaction, it is important to invest in dinner knives. Whether for your home, restaurant, or events, getting quality dinner knives should be the priority.
However, we know how challenging it can be to select dinner knives. There are various things to consider when selecting dinner knives, and we have compiled them for you.
So, if you are fed up with complaining while dining, you should take a look at our review of the top 10 impressive dinner knives to buy.
Table of Contents
What To Consider When Buying Dinner Knives
There are many dinner knives available on the market; hence, finding your choice can be daunting.
Are you finding it hard to pick the best dinner knives for your needs?
Not anymore! Below are some important things to consider when making your decision.
Material
Dinner knives are made from different materials. The popular ones are silver and stainless steel, but gold, titanium, and copper knives exist. Therefore, there are various things to expect from them.
Some dinner knives have plastic or wood used for their handles. Let’s talk about some popular materials.
Silver
Flatware is also referred to as silverware, and that’s because silver was the first material used. It used to be a popular option until the 1900s. They are more susceptible to corrosion and require higher maintenance.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is the most used material for dinner knives (and other flatware). There’s barely any home without stainless steel flatware. It became popular in the 1990s, coming with several advantages over its silver counterparts.
They are attractive, more affordable, easy to clean, safe to use, and less challenging to maintain. However, stainless steel for flatware comes in different grades, often represented by fractions. These grades are determined by the quantity of nickel and chromium in the stainless steel.
- 18/10 stainless steel: It comprises18-percent chromium and 10-percent nickel. It is the best quality available, with more weight, shine, and higher corrosion resistance.
- 18/8 stainless steel: It comprises 18 percent chromium but a lesser percentage of nickel (8%).
- 18/0 stainless steel: It comprises 18-percent chromium but zero amount of nickel. It can attract magnets; therefore, it will be great for magnetic retrievers.
- 13/0 stainless steel: It comprises 13 percent chromium and zero quantity of nickel. It offers a sharper surface for cutting food.
Finish
Some dinner knives appear brighter than others, right? Some dinner knives look more appealing. This is primarily due to their finish. There are two common types of finish.
- Mirror finish –Dinner knives with this finish are known for their reflective properties, as the name suggests, “mirror.”They have more shine, which makes them suitable for parties, classic restaurants, and formal settings
- Satin finish –It is also called matte or brushed finish. Satin-finished knives are lustrous; hence, they are best for home or casual settings. They do not retain fingerprints like mirror-finished knives.
Design and Aesthetics
Before you buy dinner knives, you should consider where you want to use them. Some dinner knives appear narrow, while some are broad and thick. There are different colors of dinner knives as well.
Designs may be etched into them; therefore, some dinner knives may carry a more modern look than another.
Some may be mixed with other materials (e.g., gold, plastic, or wood) to enhance their aesthetics or grip. There are some dinner knives with bone handles, all for aesthetics.
Quantity
Like other flatware, dinner knives come in different quantities per pack. Some packs may come with as high as 36 dinner knives, while some are sold individually. Buying dinner knives in bulk can help save money.
Identify what works best for you. Consider the size of the gatherings (family, restaurant, or parties) and, most importantly, your budget.
Nevertheless, it is best to have a little excess in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Comfort And Ease Of Use
Your comfort depends on what you choose. Do you want a heavy or lightweight dinner knife? Some people feel more satisfied with heavy dinner knives than lightweight ones and vice versa.
Generally, forged dinner knives are heavier and more expensive than those stamped out of a large piece of stainless steel. While you may feel satisfied with heavy options, your children may not be comfortable with them.
Your dining style also matters. Longer, heavier knives are fantastic with European-style dining than American-style dining.
How To Clean Dinner Knives
The way you clean your dinner knives is dependent on their build material. Most dinner knives are made from metals like stainless steel. However, some dinner knives may come with plastic, wood, or other materials, especially for the handle section.
The best way to clean them is hand-washing, particularly if they have parts made from plastic or wood. It would be best if you wash them not long after dining. A mild sponge and soap should do the trick but ensure you wipe dry and store immediately after washing.
If you are occupied or trying to save time, you may also use a dishwasher, but you must confirm that your flatware is dishwasher-safe. Dishwashers use a high water temperature and detergent for cleaning. Therefore, it can be pretty harsh on some silverware.
This explains why you must confirm if your dinner knives support dishwashers; else, they will lose their aesthetics (finish). When loading your dishwasher, it is ideal to place your dinner knives (and other flatware) in a separate basket to avoid scratches.
How To Store And Care For Your Dinner Knife
Even if you have the proper dinner knives, you still need to handle them with care. It is recommended that you wash your dinner knives (and any other flatware) immediately after use.
It would be best to avoid exposing them to acidic foods and proteins(e.g., eggs) for a long time. Such foods can corrode or stain your dinner knives; thus, reducing their aesthetics.
After every washing session, you should dry your dinner knives with a soft towel immediately to prevent spotting. Always store them in a cool, dry place. You can store them in a tray organizer or hang them on a rack if they come with holes for that.
How To Sharpen Dinner Knives
Over time, your dinner knives may become dull, and you may struggle to cut hard food (e.g., meats).
Then, the next line of action is to sharpen your dinner knife. Although there are many ways to sharpen a knife, the best ones for dinner knives are sharpening rods, triangle-shaped sharpeners, and whetstones.
The usage principle is similar for the three options. Since dinner knives are serrated, you have to sharpen each groove. Find the best spot on the sharpening rod that matches the groove.
Move the sharpening rod along the groove but be careful not to widen them. The same applies to triangle-shaped sharpeners and whetstones. For triangle-shaped sharpeners, the edges are easy to move along the groove.
Whetstones may be a little tricky. Hence, it is advisable to purchase those with prominent edges to help you pick the grooves effortlessly. You will notice metal fillings if you are doing it correctly. Then, move to the next groove till you are through.
Dinner Knife Reviews
1. Amazon Basics Dinner Knife
Product Information
| Package Dimensions | 10.04 x 5.31 x 0.59 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 2.38 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Amazon Basics |
Highlighted Features
- 10-inch long
- Evenly balanced weight
- Stainless steel 13/0 construction
- Easy to hold
- Attractive silver color
With reliable stainless steel construction, the Amazon Basics Dinner Knife makes an excellent option for homes, restaurants, and kitchens. It has an overall length of 10 inches and comes in a minimal, single-piece design.
Although the handle appears thicker, the weight of this knife is well-balanced to ensure maximum user comfort. Thanks to the handle’s thickness and shape, you can rely on the knife while enjoying a good grip at all times. It features a long blade (serrated on one side) that makes it easy to cut through a large chunk of food.
The knife’s minimal design allows you to match and mix it with other existing cutlery of yours. It isn’t difficult to clean this knife –wash it immediately after use with a dishwasher or warm water and mild soap.
2. Hiware Dinner Knife
Product Information
| Package Dimensions | 9.76 x 2.2 x 1.46 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 2.2 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Hiware |
Highlighted Features
- Heavy-duty stainless steel
- Rounded handle
- Mirror-polished modern design
- Corrosion-resistant
The Hiware Dinner Knife is for those that would like to emphasize elegance in their table settings. Thanks to its simple design, it can fit into different scenarios while blending nicely with existing silverware.
You won’t be shopping for replacements anytime soon since it is a durable knife made from heavy-duty stainless steel (18/8) to tolerate daily use. Apart from being safe to use, the knife is corrosion-resistant and compatible with a dishwasher.
The weight of the knife is carefully distributed such that handling is pretty uncomplicated. Taking a look at the aesthetics, it comes in a modern design with rounded edges and a mirror polish look that doesn’t tarnish quickly.
For a comfortable grip, the handle of the Hiware Dinner Knife is rounded and reasonably weighted. This means more comfort as you cut and push your food around the plate.
3. New Star Foodservice Dinner Knife
Product Information
| Package Dimensions | 1 x 2 x 7 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 1 pound |
| Manufacturer | New Star Foodservice Inc. |
Highlighted Features
- Weighs one pound
- 8.2-inch long
- 18/0 stainless steel
- Resistant to corrosion and stain
If you are looking for a knife that can contribute more to the dining experience, you won’t go wrong with the New Star Foodservice Dinner Knife. The knife’s prominent attribute is its classic bright appearance that looks ideal for the most formal and home settings.
Bearing in mind your safety, the knife is carefully constructed from 18/0 stainless steel, known for non-toxicity and extreme durability. Additionally, this construction is designed to reward you with several years of usage – free of corrosion and stain.
Interestingly, it weighs a pound. Despite its weight, it holds well in the hand while doing its job diligently. Also, it measures 8.2 inches in length, making it more portable than most options available. For easy cleaning, the knife can be washed with a dishwasher.
4. Oneida Vale Dinner Knife
Product Information
| Package Dimensions | 11.3 x 5 x 0.4 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 1.3 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Oneida |
Highlighted Features
- Made of stainless steel (18/0)
- Satin finish
- Built to last
- Rust-resistant
Whether for daily home meals or casual restaurants, the Oneida Vale Dinner Knife fits in so well. This knife combines impressive aesthetics and top-notch durability. Aesthetics-wise, the knife flaunts a satin finish that easily matches your other flatware.
Its durability stems from its18/0 stainless steel construction. Not only is it built to last, but it is resistant to rust or corrosion. It can also go into the dishwasher and return undamaged and untarnished.
If your priority is a not-too-heavy choice, you can also consider this a reliable option. This flatware measures 11.3 inches in length with enough space on the handle for grip. The handle is thick and shaped to fit pretty in the hands.
Overall, it is super easy to handle the knife while using it. Despite its reliable construction, the Oneida Vale Dinner Knife comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
5. Eslite Dinner Knife
Product Information
| Package Dimensions | 10 x 2 x 2.5 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 3 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Eslite |
Highlighted Features
- Weighs about 0.2 pounds
- Thick handle
- Dishwasher safe
- Highly polished(mirror) finish
- Stainless steel build
Judging by its design, the manufacturer probably seemed very engrossed in ensuring maximum user handling for a quality dining experience. The Eslite Dinner Knife is one of the lightweight options you get at the moment, weighing about 0.2 pounds.
The knife measures 9 inches in length and features a broad blade shape that helps you push and cut food quickly. Besides its lightweight, it has a sleek, simple design that includes a super thick, ergonomic handle shape. With this design, it can match and mix with other stainless silverware in your kitchen.
For everyday use, the knife’s durable construction ensures that it does not disappoint. It is constructed with high-quality stainless steel and comes with a highly polished finish. Remarkably, it doesn’t rust, get dull, or corrode even if washed with a dishwasher.
6. Winco Dinner Knife
Product Information
| Package Dimensions | 8 x 0.63 x 0.13 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 1.6 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Winco USA |
Highlighted Features
- Made with 18/0 stainless steel.
- Line pattern on the handle.
- Overall length of 8 inches.
- 4.5-inch long handle.
- Lightweight.
If your priority is a portable, lightweight, and budget-friendly dinner knife, you can settle for the Winco Dinner Knife. It is an ideal option for everyday use and can be used in homes and casual restaurants.
It is another top-quality dinner knife fabricated with 18/0 stainless steel that measures 8 inches in length. It doesn’t take up much space. It has a broad blade shape and narrow etched lines on the handle that improves its overall aesthetics.
The handle has a length of 4.5 inches and a width of 0.5 inches such that it can fit both small and large hands. Thanks to its light weight of about 0.1 pounds, it doesn’t burden your hands like some dinner knives.
Being a lightweight knife doesn’t make it less durable; we appreciate how it can tolerate heavy use and the rigors associated with dishwashers.
7. Sharecook Matte Black Dinner Knife
Product Information
| Package Dimensions | 9.7 x 2.1 x 1.8 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 12.8 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Sharecook |
Highlighted Features
- Matte Black finish.
- Ergonomic handle with rounded edges.
- Dishwasher safe.
- 18/0 stainless steel.
- Corrosion-resistant.
The Sharecook Matte Black Dinner Knife is ideal for those in need of a unique set of knives for their table settings. It also makes an excellent choice for those looking for eye-catching, elegant knives perfect for casual or home use.
The knife is crafted from 18/0 stainless steel that can tolerate all the dining rigors and last a long time. You also don’t need to panic about the flatware’s durability as it is resistant to rusting and corrosion. Also, the black matte finish doesn’t fade and can remain pristine for a long time.
It features an ergonomic handle that possesses rounded edges. We love this shape as it guarantees an excellent grip while cutting your potatoes and meat. It is best to hand-wash; however, it won’t become dull when thrown into a dishwasher.
8. HOMMP Dinner Knife
Product Information
| Package Dimensions | 3 x 2 x 10 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 2.9 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Homeproduct |
Highlighted Features
- High-polish finish.
- Heavy; well-balanced weight.
- Super thick.
- Stylish handle.
If your priority is durability and ease of handling, the HOMMP Dinner Knifewould be a great choice. Characteristic of a dinner knife presentable in casual and formal settings, it is stylish and reliable with a well-balanced weight between the blade and its handle.
Each knife in the pack (of 16) doesn’t appear low-grade as it is fabricated from heavy-duty stainless steel. It has a high-polish (mirror) finish that gives it that fantastic lustrous look.
Fascinatingly, the knife is rugged to the extent that its appealing mirror finish doesn’t wear off quickly. The handle appears narrow, but its thickness makes up for it, allowing you to make easy, accurate cutting with a satisfying grip.
With its narrow shape, it will be more appreciated by people who prefer the European dining style. It cleans well after use, and you can also wash it with a dishwasher without damaging it.
9. Winco Toulouse Dinner Knife
Product Information
| Package Dimensions | 8.75 x 0.75 x 0.13 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 0.6 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Winco USA |
Highlighted Features
- Beautiful mirror finish.
- Attractive design.
- Weighs 0.04 pounds.
- 18/0 stainless steel.
The Winco Toulouse Dinner Knife is balanced and super lightweight, with decent work done on its aesthetics. We love the Toulouse pattern on the knife as it enhances both aesthetics and user grip.
It is one of those popular choices made from high-grade 18/0 stainless steel. Its weight measuring far less than a pound will appeal to those who prefer light flatware. Despite this unusual weight, its durability is uncompromised as it doesn’t rust or corrode.
We appreciate the beautiful mirror finish and how it would blend easily with existing silverware. The handle is balanced with the blade and holds well in hand. With the knife’s excellent grip and overall length of 9.1 inches, it is convenient for either American or European dining styles.
10. Tramontina Dinner Knife
Product Information
| Package Dimensions | 7 x 11 x 1 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 1 Pounds |
| Manufacturer | Tramontina |
Highlighted Features
- Minimal design.
- Stainless steel.
- Narrow handle.
- Dishwasher-safe.
And here is another impressive dinner knife to consider. ThisTramontina Dinner Knifeis sold in a pack of 36; hence, it makes sense for large gatherings and restaurants. The minimal appearance gives it a neutral feel, making it suitable for many table settings.
Like many others on this list, this lightweight knife is made with reliable stainless steel. The chances of rusting or corrosion are slim, so you won’t have to buy replacements soon. It can go into dishwashers without losing its shimmering finish.
Being a medium-weight knife, it effortlessly strikes a perfect balance between handling and user comfort. Its wide blade is joined to a narrow handle, which has rounded edges. We like how the narrow handle fits in small hands with a feel that enhances users’ grip.
Final Thoughts
We understand how frustrating it is to use a terrible dinner knife, but we are happy you read our article to the end. We agree that everyone should eat and dine without stress from their flatware.
The ten reviewed dinner knives are confirmed to be of acceptable quality, and you can be sure to delight in whichever one you pick. For a straightforward decision-making process, we included a simple buying guide and also added some useful information.
To enjoy a delightful dining experience, we recommend the Amazon Basics Dinner Knife. Apart from its minimal design, this dinner knife has a durable 13/0 stainless steel construction and an evenly balanced weight, making it easy to hold.
If your budget is small and you desire to buy a top-quality option, the Winco Dinner Knife should be your top priority. In addition to being dishwasher-safe, it combines aesthetics, reliable construction, and lightweight.