Good for precise portions of meat and vegetables. Great when dieting, even better when baking (not dieting).

The best peeler I've ever used, and the replaceable blades are the cherry on top.

You don't *have* to get a Batali...any flat wooden spoon will do. Use as spoon and spatula.

I had lusted after one of these for years, and finally scored one. I don't have the best track record with baked goods, but this upped the ante considerably!

I've had a great time with these, although the spaghetti cutter hasn't worked all that well.

I had been terrified of large chef's knives until I took a knife skills class...and ended up buying the tools we used. A good chef's knife, a small paring knife, and a bread knife are about all you need. Maybe a flexible boning knife. And keep 'em sharp! A knife is incredibly personal -- best to try some out in your hand, at a store, than buying one blind (sorry, Amazon).

I only wish I used these more often (made myself a good hot lunch every day).

Worth the space it takes up in my cupboard.

Great for cheddar, monterey jack; use a microplane for parmesan and citrus zest.

Don't know how I lived without it for fresh parm on pasta and for zesting.

Great for herbs all winter long.