Tasting Table 2026 Kitchen MVP Awards

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Buying the right accessories for all of your kitchen needs can be a frustrating task. There are so many appliances, gadgets, and doohickeys that define the line between arduous and enjoyable cooking. With seemingly endless options available, how do you figure out what's right for you? Well, the strategy is really the same as it ever was: Trust the experts. 

The Tasting Table 2026 Kitchen MVP Awards recognizes the absolute best items you can purchase to optimize your kitchen. This year's accolades cover seven different categories: storage and organization, kitchen cleaning, cookware and bakeware, prep tools, skillets, small appliances, and coffee devices. Selections were based on tried and tested preferred picks from our team of writers, whose ranks include culinary pros, recipe developers, award-winning baristas, and more. 

While value was a consideration in selecting these items, quality and function are top of mind. No matter if you're shopping for yourself, another, or simply just scrolling through our Kitchen MVP awards for inspiration, you're bound to find something that will help take your kitchen to the next level.  

Few things are more frustrating when preparing a meal than a disorganized kitchen, let alone not having enough space to house all of your appliance, gadget, and pantry essentials. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to make the most of what what you're working with, and we have a few helpful suggestions.  

We surveyed our writers for their must-have storage and organization tools, from sleek spice racks to rolling kitchen carts. These items offer a mix of value and function, along with that intangible way of making cooking feel good by way of slight simplification. Our kitchens wouldn't be the same without these simple remedies for maximizing kitchen space.

When I moved into a new house two years ago, I realized that my vintage wall-mounted spice rack wouldn't work for the space. The kitchen walls are thick stucco, and because I rent, I can't put screws in them. Storage was also limited, so I started looking for organization hacks to create more kitchen counter space. None of the options really seemed like they would work for storing spices, however. What I really wanted was a solution that would keep spices off of the counter, where space was at a premium, but also carefully organized at arm's reach so I always knew exactly where each seasoning was.

I finally found the ideal solution: A magnetic spice rack is a cheap, small kitchen upgrade that keeps my spices tidy and easy to reach. This Mystozer rack can be mounted on a refrigerator or any other large magnetic surface. It even comes with hooks that can be attached to hold kitchen utensils, towels, or measuring cups. I opted for this brand over the hundreds of others because it is inexpensive and has a 4.8-star rating with close to 3,000 reviews. I have a four-pack on the side of my fridge by my counter, and the racks hold 48 standard-size spice bottles. Not only are they cute, they're also incredibly sturdy and durable and have never fallen off in the two years I've had them.

Purchase the Mystozer Magnetic Spice Racks on Amazon, where they are available in multi-packs in 13 different patterns and colors for between $15 and $30.

- Dee Lopez

Thanks to a recent cross-country move, I was able to completely declutter my home. I moved from a larger house with plenty of cabinets and storage space, to a smaller, empty-nester home with a lot less. I adore the new home but had to get creative with storage. Plus, as a food writer, I always have an ample supply of ingredients that need to be stored yet easy to find.

One of the first things I purchased for under-the-sink storage was plastic bins. I wanted something clear so I could see what was inside, and I preferred bins without lids so I could add taller cleaning products. I stumbled upon Sorbus' clear plastic bins with handles and chose a mix of sizes so I could play around with them in different cabinets. After placing the bins under my kitchen sink, I raced to my computer and ordered three more sets. I love the different sizes and now use the bins to store condiments in my refrigerator, as well as spices, flour, sugar, pasta, canned goods, and other products in my pantry. I also use them in bathrooms and to store holiday ornaments. I believe I'm up to five purchases at this point. My only negative experience was the tight-fitting packaging with one set; the bins were nestled so tightly I could barely get them apart.

Purchase Sorbus Clear Plastic Fridge Organizer Bins on Amazon, where it's available as a set of 10 (4 Large, 2 Medium, 4 Small) for $34.99.

- Robin Miller

My tiny apartment has a tiny kitchen, and thus a significant lack of cabinet space. For the longest time, I was fighting daily battles with the boxy, rectangular food containers: They were constantly in the way and really only served one purpose. On the days I didn't actually have any leftovers to store, they were just clutter. Until one day, I found the Bestämma trio from Ikea — the three round, stackable glass containers that comfortably cover all my food storage needs, don't take up a bunch of space, and have plenty of diverse uses.

The largest container can hold 24.6 ounces, which is plenty for meal prep and leftovers, but in my home it commonly doubles as a soup bowl. The mid-sized container is one of those Ikea finds that'll make your fridge the most organized spot in your home; I use it to store deli meats, cheese, leftover sauce, unused chunks of butter, you name it. The smallest container is great for storing (and serving) dips, quickly whisking together a salad dressing, or saving grease that I want to reuse. Because these bowls come with tight-fitting lids, I never have to worry about anything leaking, spilling, or leaving behind a smell in the fridge. Best of all, the full set can go into the dishwasher, lids and all: A non-negotiable for me.

You can find the BESTÄMMA food containers at Ikea for $9.99.

- Luna Lupus

I have a very small kitchen, but because I cook and bake a lot, I also own a huge variety of cookware, bakeware, and small kitchen appliances. There just isn't an easy way to store them in the kitchen so they're out of the way, yet still accessible when I need them. To solve this problem, I started looking for a flexible, useful kitchen organization tool to help me get rid of clutter without resorting to keeping things in my laundry room or backyard shed.

I eventually discovered that a moveable cart is key for easily organizing a small kitchen. This Amazon Basics 3-Tier Metal Rolling Utility Cart makes it easy to keep small appliances and accessories neat and tidy. I can stash it away in a closet when I don't need it, and roll it into the kitchen when I'm cooking or baking. I love them because they are easy to put together, yet they're also durable and well-constructed. They roll around smoothly and can hold a lot of weight.

In fact, I have these in three colors, and I've found a lot of different ways to use these rolling carts in my kitchen for maximum organization. I use one for cookware and bakeware, one for appliances, and one for pantry staples. The cart has a 4.6-star rating on Amazon with over 15,000 reviews, with customers highlighting its versatility and performance.

Purchase the Amazon Basics 3-Tier Metal Rolling Utility Cart for around $45.

- Dee Lopez

A great set of knives is essential for any home cook, but how you take care of those knives is equally important. Having your knives properly stored protects both you and the blades, which is why I love the Knife Dock In-Drawer Knife Organizer from Williams Sonoma. I've had this cork in-drawer organizer for over a decade, and love how secure and flexible it is. The rows of cork dividers mean you aren't tied to a single layout like you are with a knife block, and the low profile fits easily into a standard shallow kitchen drawer, saving counter space and keeping knives safely tucked away when not in use. We've moved with it four times, and the bamboo frame of the organizer is still in fantastic shape, too.

We have amassed a diverse knife collection through our years as avid home cooks (with an intermission as restaurant owners), and because they are a variety of brands and styles, most of the blades or handles wouldn't fit into a wooden knife block with set grooves. I can easily slide a knife into the organizer wherever it fits, including tucking short paring knives between longer chef and bread knives to maximize storage. We use stones to keep our knives sharp, and never have to worry about the cork nicking a blade and undermining our hard work. If you're serious about taking care of your knives, this is the organizer for you.

Purchase the Knife Dock In-Drawer Knife Organizer for $29.95 from Williams Sonoma.

- Jaimie Mackey

There's not a lot of kitchen equipment I've bought in the past that also doubles as a piece of home decor, but the Lodge Cast Iron Cookware Tower does just that. It's an easy-to-assemble, freestanding metal tower that holds heavy pots and pans of varying sizes, and it looks cool to boot. You might think a nearly 5-foot tower would look a little out of place in your kitchen, but after I put mine together, it actually made the kitchen look lived-in in a functional way.

It's also practical. Cast iron pots and pans can be pretty tough to store if you don't have a lot of room, which is where this thing absolutely comes in handy. I don't use my Dutch oven all the time, so it needs somewhere to live without getting in the way or taking up valuable space in a cabinet (and potentially scratching it). The Dutch oven fits comfortably in the base of the tower, plus my other pots and pans fit on other shelves above it, and they're easy to access right when I need them. Yes, I can see a few of you complaining, since it's over $100. But the tower is sturdy, and you want somewhere safe to put your coveted cooking equipment. This is easily one of my favorite kitchen accessories — and I don't even cook with it.

Buy the Cookware Storage Tower from Lodge for $129.90.

- Dennis Lee

There are a lot of reasons to keep a clean kitchen. It's sanitary, first and foremost, not to mention good for your mental health. Finding supplies that are high quality and functional is key. With that in mind, we tirelessly scrubbed and sprayed to come up with our list of the very best kitchen cleaning essentials. 

These recommendations are trusted for all of your cleaning needs, from pristine counters to sparking kitchen floors. Covering mops and brushes, sponges and cloths, and the best cleaning solutions for grime, this year's choices are all you need to let your kitchen shine.

Every time I clean my kitchen, I basically morph into Danny Tanner from "Full House" and approach the task with type-A precision. I get meticulous about grout, polish every surface, and then, like Danny, I clean my cleaning supplies. The kitchen floor is a touchy subject, mostly because I want a new one (someday), but in the meantime the PurSteam 10-in-1 steam mop keeps the worn tiles looking and feeling their best. In addition to being effective, PurSteam's mop is fairly affordable at around $100 and very easy to use.

The sleek mop (which folds in half for easy storage) requires nothing more than water to do its job. Fill the tank, attach the cloth mop pad, plug it in, and within seconds, it's producing steam. From there, you can run it over the floor and watch stains disappear — it's super satisfying, and you don't have to push too hard. The "10-in-1" descriptor refers to the PurSteam's conversion abilities: The middle portion of the mop that holds the water detaches to become a Dirt Devil-shaped handheld steamer, to which you can connect one of the mop's numerous attachments.

There's a grout brush (a personal fave), squeegee, fabric steamer, and small nozzles and brushes for fine detail work. The PurSteam 10-in-1 can be used on carpet, tile, and sealed hardwood surfaces. When you're done, just empty the water tank and toss the microfiber mop pad in the washing machine.

Buy the PurSteam 10-in-1 Steam Mop at Target for $99.99

- Mary K. Cahill

I live in a coastal area with lots of rain, snow, and mud, so I've logged a lot of mop time. Over the years, I've used everything from old-school rag mops to sponge mops to microfiber mops. Some were improved by "easy wring" features or replaceable heads, which admittedly are handy. None of them addressed the real problem, though, which is the wash water getting steadily dirtier as I clean. Then, earlier this year, I bought O-Cedar's RinseClean spin mop and bucket set. It has replaceable heads and a built-in spin wringer, but the real news is that it keeps my wash water clean. It has two buckets that nest together: The top (inside) one holds your clean, soapy wash water; then, when you use the spin wringer, your dirty water collects in the outer (lower) bucket. It's simple, it's brilliant, and it works like a charm.

Unfortunately,  don't have a mudroom or porch outside my back door, so all the mud and manure of my rural homestead gets tracked into the entryway and up our stairs. I really appreciate being able to get the whole floor clean without needing to change the water. Excuse the cliche, but it's a genuine game-changer.

Buy the O-Cedar RinseClean Clean Water Spin Mop and Bucket System from Amazon for $54.99.

- Fred Decker

Between working in restaurants, food styling in studios, and cooking at the houses of clients, I've been in a lot of kitchens; and no matter what, every kitchen needs its dishes washed. Over the years, I've learned which products work best and have settled on a lineup of cleaning tools I enjoy using the most at home. The sponge I favor most is an unexpectedly cute dual soft-scrubber with a friendly face — and it happens to come with a whole family of excellent counterparts.

The Scrub Mommy comes from the same makers of the Scrub Daddy, but in this bow-clad version, features a second, softer side perfect for sudsy, soft washes. I use the hard FlexTexture side to gently scrape away stuck-on foods and sauces, then I turn it around and use the soft ResoFoam to work the soap in deeply. Both sides genuinely last around 2 to 3 months before ripping apart or smelling, and can be used for glass, plastic, and countertops without issue. For more challenging messes I also keep Scour Daddy Scouring Pads handy, which are designed like softer, more ergonomic steel sponges that can be used on cast iron, coated enamel, and even glass-topped stoves without harming the surfaces. Between the two sponges, I can get many months of powerfully washed dishes without damaging my pots, pans, and glassware, which is why I believe the Scrub Mommy to be the best sponge on the market.

Buy the Super Absorbent Sponge Side Scrub Mommy from Amazon for $8.30.

- Michelle McGlinn

After a few uses, thick sponges and bulky dish rags can start to smell funky when dry. This doesn't, exactly, make me want to wash dishes with them (though zapping a kitchen sponge in the microwave beforehand does help). As someone who handwashes dishes on the daily, I've come to love Trader Joe's reusable sponge cloths. Their texture is a literal happy medium between a sponge and dish rag. They're thin enough to dry quickly and absorbent enough to create soap suds, which, combined with burning hot water, makes me feel like I'm actually cleaning my dishes.

These are Trader Joe's answer to Swedish dishcloths, which I first started seeing in stores in the early 2020s. Like Swedish dish cloths, the reusable sponges are designed to be sanitized in the dishwasher or washing machine. This can be done after a few uses and definitely helps extend the sponge cloth's life. I appreciate the environmental angle, though after a few dishwasher tours I usually retire the cloth and grab a new one from the pack.

Trader Joe's sponge cloths are cheaper than the average Swedish dish cloth, but unlike their Scandinavian counterpart, the packaging doesn't explicitly say they are biodegradable. Still, the combo of convenience and capability is what keeps me loyal. I even installed a mini towel rack near my backsplash to hang-dry sponge cloths between uses, which is probably pretty nerdy, but I'm at peace with it.

Buy these resusable sponge clothes at Trader Joe's for $3.99

- Mary K. Cahill

Cleaning is a total drag, but I actually look forward to it when I use Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner — and that's saying something! Mrs. Meyer's makes all sorts of cleaning products, from hand soaps to air fresheners. The brand's products take inspiration from the garden, avoiding the use of harsh chemicals in favor of essential oils and cruelty-free, biodegradable ingredients.

While I love all of the cleaning spray scents, there's just something special about the brand's lavender offering. As a bonus, it's widely available. Scrubbing stubborn counter stains doubles as aromatherapy, and the pleasant smell lingers in the air long after the kitchen is clean. Though this is not a scent I usually love, I find that it's not as polarizing and overpowering as typical lavender fragrances.

Being a general cleaning spray, you can use it on nonporous countertops, floors, tiles, and even walls, making it perfectly suited for wide applications in the kitchen (though you'll want to avoid spritzing it on unsealed natural stone or unfinished wood). It sprays on and wipes off easily, and I haven't seen that it ever leaves streaks. It's a gentle formula that's well-suited for light maintenance days, but also has mild antibacterial properties, so it can tackle tougher jobs, too (though it is not a true disinfectant). For daily spruce-ups, it can't be beat.

Purchase Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner (Lavender) on Amazon for a list price of $5.99.

- Becky Stephenson

One of my absolute favorite kitchen items is my scrub brush. That might seem strange to say, but it's true. When there's a bunch of high-tech, complicated kitchen gadgets crowding your countertops and glitching at the worst moment, a no-nonsense solution is refreshing. That's the case with the Kamenoko Tawashi scrub brush. It's simple. It works. And it's made to last.

Kamenoko offers a variety of tawashi or natural-fiber scrub brushes, but I opt for the original: the Tawashi No. 1, first produced in 1907. Made from coconut fibers (which are naturally antibacterial) bound together into a sort of bloated oval — the shape is the inspiration for the company's name which means baby turtle — the bristles are firm, but flexible. They're stiff enough to remove stuck-on foods from dishes, but won't damage the coating on nonstick pans. One minute they're bending to the curves of bowls and the rounded corners of casserole dishes; the next they're poking into the nooks and crannies of water bottle caps and Tupperware lids.

I buy Kamenoko's brushes in sets of three, but I rarely need to open a replacement. After a quick rinse, I hang them to dry over the sink, and I've never had one start to mold or smell, even when I don't remove bits of food particularly well. When it is time to throw one out — I use them until they become misshapen, which takes months — you can feel good knowing they're biodegradable.

You can purchase a 3-pack of the Kamenoko Tawashi No. 1 scrub brushes on Amazon for $14.99.

- Hannah Fullmer

High-quality and easy-to-use cookware and bakeware are the foundation of your kitchen. There are plenty of factors to consider, chief among them durability — they should last for many, many years, maybe even seasoning and improving over time. Are they multifunctional? Aesthetically pleasing? The perfect for your particular kitchen design?

We tried and tested a variety of items that span the average cook's needs, covering the basics and then some. These sets of pots, pans, and various baking dishes have been relied on by our writers to get them through dinner parties, busy holidays, and regular weeknight dinners. They come in a range of costs, but each would be a quality addition to your kitchen.

It's always Le Creuset this and Staub that. While these high-end Dutch oven brands are fantastic for displaying on your shelf or putting out on your stove when guests come over to make your space look more put-together, they are so pretty (and so friggin' expensive) that you may be afraid to use them. Enter: Lodge. It's no surprise that customers say Lodge's 6-quart Dutch oven is one of the absolute best Dutch ovens on the market. Like its cast iron skillet, this sizable and well-constructed Dutch oven is ready for anything.

The finish on it is fantastic and non-stick — provided you take care of it, avoid metal utensils, and keep it out of the dishwasher — and I've found that it holds up just as well as my higher-end Staubs and Le Creusets. This is one that you can't beat the price of, and while it may not come in as many trendy hues as its competitors, it is one of the best value-for-money kitchen items that any home cook can buy. I'm going on five years with mine, and I will be buying another after it.

Purchase the Lodge Essential Enamel Cast Iron 6-Quart Dutch Oven on Amazon for $89.90. 

- Sara Klimek

I used to have a set of inexpensive nonstick cookware, but like most people, I gave them up when the concerns about forever chemicals in nonstick pans became public knowledge. I then went on a hunt for the best healthy, non-toxic pots and pans that I could afford with a budget of around $100. While I did find some affordable ceramic nonstick cookware, I also discovered the benefits of having both stainless steel and ceramic pans in the kitchen during my research. Professional chefs swear by having a good set of stainless steel pots and pans, as they are non-toxic, low-maintenance, versatile, durable, and offer exceptional heat retention.

As I explored the most highly-rated stainless steel pans, however, I quickly realized that most were way out of my budget. My options were either to buy pots and pans individually as I could afford them, until I assembled an entire set, or settle for a mid-range option with good reviews. I decided on the latter, and found that Cuisinart, a brand I trust, offered an 11-piece set with great reviews at a reasonable price. It came with all of the cookware I would need on a regular basis, as well as an 8-quart stockpot with a steamer basket insert. Plus, it was dishwasher-safe, oven-safe to 550 F, and made from durable stainless steel with an aluminum encapsulated base for improved heat distribution and retention.

Purchase the Cuisinart Chef's Classic 11-Piece Stainless Steel Pots and Pans Set on Amazon for around $130.

- Dee Lopez

All-Clad makes premium cookware that is actually worth the significant investment, and the D5 stainless steel line is some of its best. This 10-piece cookware set includes 1.5 and 3 quart sauce pans with lids, a 3 quart saute pan with lid, an 8 quart stockpot with lid, plus 8- and 10-inch frying pans. It's everything a kitchen needs, without any lesser-used pieces that can sometimes make a large cookware set feel like it's not worth the money.

It's not just a thoughtfully curated set though. All-Clad's D5 pans are made with five alternating layers of stainless steel and aluminum, which gives them reliably even heating and superior strength against thermal shock. They can go from the stovetop to the oven or broiler and are guaranteed to withstand temperatures of up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit (the lids have a lower temperature ceiling of 500 degrees Fahrenheit).

As durable as they are, perhaps the best features of these pans are the finer points. The pan edges are flared to discourage spills while pouring, and the grooves in the elongated handles are carefully designed to give the cook a secure grip and unparalleled pan control. The only potential drawback is that these pans are not dishwasher safe. Over time, caustic detergents can wear down the finish and corrode the aluminum inside. But luckily, they are easy to clean by hand.

Purchase the All-Clad D5 Stainless Steel Core 10 Piece Cookware Set on Amazon for $999.95.

- Bobby Lewis

I'm one of the designated birthday cake bakers in my family, and whether I'm whipping up a rich dark chocolate cake or fluffy Asian fruit cream cake, I know I can rely on Fat Daddio's 8-Inch Anodized Aluminum Round Cake Pan. I mainly do gluten-free baking, which can be a complicated beast, but these wonderfully consistent pans take out a ton of guesswork. They're durable, long-lasting, and always produce beautiful, evenly-baked cakes.

The magic of Fat Daddio's lies in the anodized aluminum. Plain aluminum heats up fast and maintains temperatures well, helping cakes to bake evenly, but it's also scratch-prone and reactive, meaning acidic ingredients will damage it. Anodization makes aluminum corrosion-free, scratch- and chip-resistant, and nonreactive, creating the ultimate combo of great performance, durability, and easier maintenance. The light color of Fat Daddio's pans also prevents cakes from browning excessively on the outside, a pitfall I've encountered with dark pans.

I purchased my first Fat Daddio's pans back in 2022 and they still perform flawlessly in 2026, so I haven't had to shell out a cent for replacements. My cakes never turn out unexpectedly under- or over-baked or get hopelessly stuck, even with recipes where you're not supposed to grease the pan, like chiffon cake. I even ordered an extra pair of these pans to my mom's house across the country — I couldn't fit them in my suitcase, but wouldn't bake my nephew's birthday cake without them.

Fat Daddio's PRD-83 Anodized Aluminum Round Cake Pan, 8 x 3 Inch is available on Amazon for $18.99.

- Dee Lopez

In addition to doing a lot of baking throughout the year, I also make around 300 holiday cookies each December to give to family and friends. This means that I need a wide variety of heavy-duty, dependable baking sheets that I can count on year after year. I don't love using ceramic nonstick options because I have concerns about forever chemicals, and I hate washing large baking sheets by hand — especially when I've dirtied 20 of them in one day. So I needed to buy the perfect cookie sheets that were non-toxic, dishwasher-safe, and had a good reputation for quality and durability.

My decision came down to Nordic Ware vs. Wilton. I already owned a lot of Nordic Ware bakeware and cookware, and trusted the brand as it's been a staple of the industry since 1946. The brand's Nordic Ware Naturals line is crafted from pure aluminum, which offers superior heat conductivity, virtually guaranteeing that baked goods come out perfectly. Its sheet pans are deep with encapsulated steel rims, and are oven- and broiler-safe to 500 F. Best of all, I can use metal utensils on the pans and put them in the dishwasher.

I have about five sets of the multi-size pans, which come in full-, half-, and quarter-sheets. The different sizes make it easy to fit dozens of cookies in the oven at once, and I regularly use the half- and quarter-sheets for small sheet pan meals or making baked potatoes, fries, or chicken thighs. The high rim prevents splatters in the oven, and the pans are incredibly easy to clean.

Purchase a three-piece set of Nordic Ware Naturals Aluminum Sheet Pans at Walmart for around $22.

- Dee Lopez

Though this baking dish might bring to mind casseroles, it's capable of so much more, as I've tested and found out. Glass is one of the best materials for baking dishes, but paired with a matching lid, this set is one of my most-used baking dishes for larger recipes. I love how evenly everything from macaroni and cheese to brownies cooks in this dish and that it's easy to throw on the lid and pop it in the fridge after cooling.

And for the times I want to reheat the dish in the oven, I can simply remove the lid and slide the leftovers back into the oven. The lid also makes this dish excellent for things like layered Jell-O that need to be covered and reopened repeatedly. I even turn to this handy set to store iced cookies since it's deep enough to store several layers of set cookies. It's a versatile option that I frequently reach for when I need something that can do more than a single bake.

Buy the OXO Good Grips 3-Quart Glass Baking Dish with Lid on Amazon for around $23.

- Molly Harris

Cooking's biggest downside? Washing the dishes, obviously. One of its greatest upsides? Taking raw components and shaping them into something that feeds your body and your creativity. Yes, prepping can be time-consuming and, admittedly, tedious, but also, when you get in the flow, working with the ingredients that will together become a meal is pretty profound. Prepping can also be fun when you have tools that grease the wheels (and also tools that make the wheels look really cool as they spin). 

Our prep tool picks cover each stage of the cooking process, comprising the basics of what a well-supplied kitchen can make use of. Maybe you need a knife set, or some separate cutting boards for proper food safety? These kitchen essentials will soon become a seamless part of your culinary life.

When I was working in fine-dining restaurant kitchens, all my fellow chefs obsessed over Japanese knives. While Japanese knives are known for being excellent, they can also be quite expensive and delicate. They're also sharpened at the factory with an asymmetrical bevel designed for right-handed users, with left-handed models a little harder to come by. As a poor, clumsy, left-handed line cook, I opted for a knife from a different country with a long history of manufacturing excellent cutlery: Germany.

The German-manufactured Wüsthof Classic Chef's Knife is my favorite kitchen knife for several reasons. Its plastic handle is comfortable and sturdy — it won't shrink or become loose over time like wooden handles can. The blade is made from a high-carbon stainless steel alloy that is soft enough to sharpen well (harder alloys are difficult to sharpen at home) but hard enough to maintain an edge for a decent amount of time. This knife is thick and sturdy, so it can withstand being knocked around a bit. That makes it on the heavier side, but it's so well-balanced that it doesn't feel fatiguing to use, even after hours of chopping. And fortunately for my left-handed brethren, it works the same regardless of which hand you use.

The 8" model offers the perfect compromise between maneuverability and length — you'll rarely find yourself running out of blade edge while slicing, but it doesn't feel overlong and clumsy. I use it for almost everything, from dicing vegetables to carving meat and filleting fish.

Buy the Wüsthof Classic 8" Chef's Knife from Cutlery and More for $170.

- Crawford Smith

You might be familiar with Le Grande Epicerie Paris from its viral social media mentions that share how to buy French butter and vacuum-seal it at this stunning grocery store to travel home with. But if you wander through the dizzying floors and aisles of delectable French goods, you'll find beautifully crafted kitchen tools as well. That's how I found this olive wood-handled serrated bread knife made in partnership with Claude Dozorme, a master cutlery shop dating to 1902.

I've been shocked at just how beautifully this knife cuts through the chewiest, toughest of baguette crusts — even those a few days old that I turned into croutons. This knife is particularly long, making it easy to cut through large loaves without needing to saw or crush the bread to reach the other side. The serrated teeth are sharp and deep, making it easier to gain traction as you slice through dense loaves of bread.

Pick up or order this exclusive Claude Dozorme olive wood-handled bread knife for roughly $45 from Le Grande Epicerie Paris.

- Molly Harris

If you've been knife-shopping recently, you know that they are usually far from cheap. While I swear by my Wüthof chef's knife, I am in no way paying more than $500 for an entire set. That's what initially led me to Zwilling, a more budget-friendly brand, and I am happy to report that its knife set does the job — and does the job well. This sub-$400 set comes with all of your essentials: A peeling knife, vegetable knife, serrated utility knife, slicing knife, bread knife, chef's knife, kitchen shears, and steak knives, along with the wooden block to store them.

The German-made knives arrived well-sharpened and have decent construction (especially at the price point). They're not as swanky as a higher-end knife brand, but I think they are a great value for folks who are looking for a beginner knife set and don't want to shop around for individual knives. They are about as stain-resistant as the brand says they can be, and the handle on each of them is quite comfortable and easy to hold.

Purchase the Zwilling Gourmet 14-piece Knife Block Set on Amazon for $349.95.

- Sara Klimek

While Boos Block cutting boards can be pricey, especially when compared to plastic cutting boards, it has been well worth the upfront cost in my kitchen. This cutting board has become my go-to for most meals because it's the perfect size for chopping and preparing most produce, tofu, cheeses, and more. I love that I don't have to worry about microplastics when using a wooden cutting board, but I also enjoy that this cutting board is elevated on feet.

While it might seem like a small thing, it makes it easy to set a prep bowl along one edge where I can periodically push the sliced, diced, or otherwise prepared ingredients to a bowl for seasoning or mixing. Another advantage of this cutting board is its size. Though I have a larger cutting board, I constantly reach for the smaller Boos Block instead because it is easy to grab for quick cutting, wash by hand, and store again after drying, without taking up too much space.

A B-series 9-inch wooden Boos Block costs around $53 on Amazon.

- Molly Harris

One of the biggest takeaways I learned while working in restaurants is to have multiples of basic kitchen tools, and I definitely apply that rule to my own busy home. I've been very happy with Williams Sonoma Synthetic Prep Cutting Boards, which are available in a set of three (small, medium, and large). Each one is in my kitchen's constant rotation for different tasks. The smallest one is usually out on the island throughout the day, ideal for cutting and nibbling on small snacks and girl dinners, while the other two are useful for my large-scale prep work.

Other than the multiple sizes, these cutting boards have other key features that keep my kitchen operations running smoothly. Made with a BPA-free polypropylene, they're durable, resist stains, and don't absorb odors. They are safe to clean in the dishwasher, so I don't need to always wash them by hand. I also really love the nonslip rubber ends on two sides, which keep the boards in place while I'm chopping chuck, mincing garlic, or hand-kneading bread. And while one side on each board has a shallow ridge to catch any juices (I never have the best coordination when making that second martini of the night), I appreciate how the reverse side is completely flat. It's useful for evenly rolling out dough for pastries, scones, and cookies.

Buy these Williams Sonoma Synthetic Prep Cutting Boards on Williams Sonoma for $59.95.

- Nikki Cervone

The OXO Good Grips Chopper lives on my counter, no matter what my husband says. Unlike my slow cooker or ice cream machine attachments, it's the one appliance I reach for year-round, though what I make with it changes with the seasons.

In fall and winter, this chopper is my shortcut for starting any soup or ragout with a basic mirepoix, that holy trinity of onions, celery, and carrots. Once summer arrives, the same chopper moves on to salsas, dicing tomatoes, onions, and jalapenos into pieces small enough to pile onto a tortilla chip. Year-round, I use it to prep the crunchy vegetables that go into my chopped salads.

I also love the OXO Good Grips Chopper for its range. It's excellent for vegetables like carrots, onions, cucumbers, and peppers, but it's soft enough to handle firm tomatoes. It also works just as well for nuts, with a quick pulse turning almonds or pecans into a topping for gratins or a bowl of soup. The 1-cup catcher holds just enough for a single diner, and the whole thing comes apart easily to go in the dishwasher once I'm done. No other chopper in my kitchen gets this much use, which is why my husband has mostly learned to live with it taking up counter space. Luckily, it's pretty compact.

Purchase the OXO Good Grips Chopper from Amazon for $24.99.

- Knesia Prints

I cook with a lot of garlic, so a sturdy, durable garlic press is a must. My mom initially gifted me this garlic press when I went to college, as it was the exact same model she had. And I can say that it is one of the best gifts I've ever gotten. This garlic press is sturdy and heavy — like, you-could-probably-use-it-as-a-meat-mallet heavy. I've worked with flimsy plastic presses before that break when you push the clove, but since this one is virtually all metal (aside from the comfy handle), you won't need to worry about it breaking at all.

I love that I can easily open the hinge and remove the garlic peel or any leftovers, which makes cleaning easy. Plus, when I'm done, it just needs to be popped into the dishwasher. Some home cooks may not like its weight (it can be heavy on the wrists if you're going through 10 cloves in a single sitting) and its price, which is markedly more than other models, but this is one garlic press that you will quite literally have your whole life.

Purchase the Williams Sonoma Garlic Press for $32.95.

- Sara Klimek

Mixing bowls are a non-negotiable in any kitchen, but having one space-saving set that can truly do it all is a game-changer — especially in small kitchens. That's exactly why I replaced my first set of plastic mixing bowls with this nesting set made in France by Duralex. With sizes ranging from 1 ounce to 2.5 quarts, these bowls are suitable for everything from mise en place to whisking together batter or tossing large salads. Another advantage that I love about this set of bowls in particular is their ability to be used to melt chocolate over a double-boiler.

Because the bowls are made of tempered glass, they're more resistant to chipping and shattering, but they're also safe for thermal shock. The bowls can withstand temperature changes that range below zero degrees to over 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This set can be used in the microwave and tossed in the dishwasher for easy cleaning, which makes it the most versatile set of mixing bowls I've encountered yet. It's a swap I made for plastic ones over seven years ago, and I certainly haven't regretted the upgrade.

A set of nine Duralex bowls is about $60 on Amazon.

- Molly Harris

As a big home baker, my oven mitts get more than their fair share of usage. I'm pretty picky about which ones I tend to to reach for, as I've got a lot of requirements. First off, it needs to feel good on my hands, which disqualifies most of the pure silicon options, which are essentially weird, thick surgical gloves that have to be washed like Tupperware. However, pure cotton can't take the heat or grip nearly as well.

Enter my goldilocks oven mitt option: The KitchenAid Beacon Two-Tone Non-Slip Oven Mitt. The majority of it is cotton, meaning it feels good to wear and can be machine washed on cold. However, the exterior palm section is lined with silicone strips, creating a great, heat-hardy grip. The sleeve length is just right, as it protects my forearm from the hot grates when reaching deep into the oven. Finally, this is the kind of aesthetically pleasing tool that I'm happy to leave on display in my kitchen. As a bonus, a cotton loop on the glove makes it easy to hang from whatever handle or hook is handy. Though I personally love the sunny Majestic Yellow color option, you can snag these mitts in shades like Aqua Sky, Pistachio/Graphite Green, and Passion Red/Bordeaux.

The KitchenAid Beacon Two-Tone Non-Slip Oven Mitt can be purchased on Amazon for $14.09.

- Kyle Grace Mills

Before you can use these cheese grater hacks you didn't know you needed, you obviously need a cheese grater. And the Ikea UPPFYLLD should be a top contender. I would know -– I've had it for 26 years. I originally bought it at the Ikea in Boston in 2000 for $2. It has moved around the country -– and world –- with me, and gone from apartment living to being the go-to grater in a family household. Sure, there are fancier shredders on the market with ergonomic handles and six sides for varying grating and slicing capabilities, but it's the ease of this Ikea find that makes it magical. I can shred a container full and pop on the included lid to store it in the fridge for later use by me or the kids.

The UPPFYLLD comes with a standard size hole and a finer one, which I've used for parmesan and ginger. Both have always shredded well, even with a couple decades of use. It's also dishwasher-safe and easier to pop into the machine than a bulky stand-up style grater. The price has risen in 26 years — it's now seven bucks. The shape has also changed slightly and the base container has gone from navy to clear, which I suppose is handy so you can see what's in there. But there's no mistaking the navy container in my fridge -– it's one of the most used kitchenware items we have. And, come on, for that price? Why wouldn't you get it?

Purchase the UPPFYLLD Grater With Container for $6.99 at Ikea.

- Meg Hemphill

As an avid home baker, I've found this to be the most durable and affordable scale that can handle all of my cooking and baking needs. While most home cooks likely don't need a scale that reads out the smallest possible increments, the OXO Good Grips 11-pound digital scale provides a quick, accurate reading down to the gram or tenth of an ounce with a tare function to eliminate the weight of the bowl. I love that the platform is made from stainless steel and that it's detachable for easy cleaning.

I also find the pull-out display to be a helpful feature for easy reading when I'm using larger bowls or pans. The simple buttons make it quick and easy to convert measurements as needed, too. I appreciate that this scale requires very little power, so I can always count on it to be ready with very seldom battery changes needed. To me, however, one of the best advantages of this kitchen scale is that it's made by OXO because the company has such a good policy and reputation for providing replacement items or repair parts as necessary.

The OXO Good Grips 11-Pound Digital Kitchen Food Scale can be purchased from Amazon for $60.

- Molly Harris

Growing up in a big family, cooking a meal involved a community. We didn't have numerous gadgets and gizmos in the kitchen. We had our hands, some knives, and a few of those old-school, pencil-thin, swivel head peelers. The kitchen stayed full of laughter and chatter and also included challenging and celebratory moments when someone got all the potato or apple peel off in a single long curl. And I have kept this joyous hands-on cooking approach in my own kitchen with the help of OXO. I don't want or need a mandoline or electric rotary slicer. All I need is one of my OXO Good Grips Y-Prep Peelers.

Whether my hands are wet or dry, this peeler stays put in my hand without needing a tight grip. It's easy to hold in multiple positions depending on what you're peeling. The bladed head has just enough swivel to make it easy to do its job. I have had a full set of OXO peelers that I use on a regular basis and even throw in the dishwasher that have never shown a hint of discoloration or rust. And I am in awe of the sharpness the OXO peelers maintain. Bonus for safety, this peeler (and partner peelers) comes with a small plastic cap that snaps over the blade for storage. So, I never have to worry about accidentally cutting myself.

Grab your OXO Good Grips Y-Prep Peeler on Amazon for around $11.

- Meredith Johnston Burkhart

Without a doubt or hyperbole, the skillet is probably among the top five most important tools in your kitchen. It's a foundational cooking tool. Of course, if you've ever purchased a cookware set, you likely have a skillet or two, maybe even one you love. If you don't, well, first and foremost, we'd like to offer our condolences. The way that a good skillet can make cooking feel easy and artistic is magic in this world. Second, you can change that. You can get a skillet that unlocks the simple and powerful joy that cooking can be. 

Unsurprisingly, we have a lot of cooks at Tasting Table, and quite a few professional chefs. Our staff recommendations for the best skillets thusly cover several major categories. Whether non-stick, stainless steel, ceramic, or cast iron, these skillet suggestions aim to strike a balance between longevity and value, with a special consideration for performance, of course.

ast iron skillets are one of the most frequently used pans in my kitchen, and I have used many brands of them over the years. But the one that I keep coming back to because of its sturdiness, quality, and value is Lodge. It's one of the absolute best frying pans you can buy at Walmart, and I've found that its overall performance is leaps and bounds above what its competitors offer — which can be priced several hundred dollars more than it.

I personally own several sizes of the Lodge skillets, and I would recommend home cooks also invest in the same, especially if they do a lot of high-heat or stovetop-to-oven recipes. They do come pre-seasoned, though I highly recommend using a ton of oil and reseasoning them often to keep their coating in good shape. The pan itself is durable, and the handle is just wide enough to be easy to hold. I also appreciate that there is a helper handle on the other side, as it makes transferring it to my oven even easier.

The biggest sell for me, of course, is the price. Many of the more expensive cast iron pans I've had over the years are so beautiful that I don't want to use them. My Lodge, on the other hand, is a workhorse and is seemingly up to every challenge, whether that's a Dutch baby, pancakes, fried chicken, or seared salmon.

Purchase the Lodge Pre-Seasoned 10.25-inch Cast Iron Skillet on Amazon for $24.90.

- Sara Klimek

I've owned lots of GreenPan cookware over the years and, in two words: It's amazing. GreenPan's Reserve Pro Ceramic Nonstick Frypan set is durable and modern with a totally sleek upscale design. Honestly, with all the options out there, it's like no other nonstick pan I've ever purchased. The brand is also relatively affordable. We use our set every day — in fact, several times a day — and haven't had a single issue with the nonstick coating: No peeling, scratches, or any other damage (which is one of the biggest concerns for most buyers of these kinds of products). From eggs and pancakes, to soups, veggies, chili, and sauces, we love the way our pans feel; they're light, sturdy, and comfortable to handle. These ceramic nonstick frypans also heat up fast, and the temp distribution is even, so your food is consistent throughout which, you know, is important when it comes to the best part: eating. I'll admit, scrubbing pots and pans isn't one of the joys of cooking for me, but that chore is pretty much eliminated because cleaning these pans is super easy — everything basically slides off with gentle pressure from a soft sponge. GreenPan is kind of a dream to cook with, actually.

Having been through our share of nonstick pans, my wife says she's "cooked" with GreenPan; I agree. Moving forward, for us there's no reason to purchase anything else.

Purchase GreenPan's Reserve Pro Ceramic Nonstick Frypan set for a listed price of $299.99.

- Randy Sean Schulman

I love cooking with stainless steel because I can sear, sauté, fry, stir-fry, and roast almost any food without worrying about releasing toxic chemicals into the air or damaging the pan. As long as I use the right oil or fat, food doesn't burn, and, in fact, I can successfully brown and caramelize meats and veggies and create the perfect crust on steak and fish. My go-to stainless steel skillets have proven to be the most reliable, durable options I've tried in my 25+ years of cooking.

The Cuisinart MultiClad Pro Triple-Ply Stainless Skillets are crafted from triple-ply stainless steel with a core of pure aluminum for superior heat retention. This construction ensures even heat distribution across the bottom and sides of the skillets, while the handles stay cool due to the brand's patented Cool Grip technology. They are oven-safe to 500 F as well as dishwasher-safe; although, another reason I love using stainless steel cookware is because I can scrub pans out with a brush and baking soda without worrying about damaging them.

I have these skillets in three sizes: 8-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch. While I also use nonstick ceramic cookware for delicate foods that are more likely to stick or burn, these Cuisinart pans can handle everything else with ease. They have hundreds of positive reviews on Amazon, with customers pointing out that they are high-quality, easy to use and clean, and offer excellent heat distribution. In fact, one reviewer says, "I was torn between the Cuisinart and the slightly more expensive All-Clad. Based on user reviewers, the performance of these two are comparable and the difference negligible."

Purchase the Cuisinart MultiClad Pro Triple Ply Stainless Skillets on Amazon between $40 and $90.

- Dee Lopez

A quality non-stick frying pan is an integral part of any kitchen, but I hate to spend a ton of money on a tool so easily damaged. So let me amend my initial statement: An affordable, durable, quality non-stick pan is integral to any kitchen — that's why I'd rebuy my Tramontina Professional 10-Inch Non Stick Frying Pan any day.

There are definitely higher-quality non-stick pans out there, but the Tramontina Professional easily dominates the competition in value — you can't get a better bang for your buck. Its non-stick coating is durable and holds up well against daily use even when I'm not as careful with it as I should be. Similarly affordable non-stick pans I've had have lost their coating after just a few months, but I've had my Tramontina Professional for over a year, and it's still going strong.

The Tramontina Professional is also lightweight and well-balanced. I struggle to get a good grip on and reliably toss other frying pans, but with this pan (and its removable silicone handle), I'm flipping pancakes and tossing vegetables with the most muscular chefs out there. I can even smoothly transfer it from the stove to the oven — it's oven-safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit — confident I'm not going to lose my dinner to the kitchen floor.

For stainless steel pans, I'll save up to get something buy-it-for-life quality, but for a non-stick pan, I'm more than happy to pay the Tramontina Professional's modest sticker price whenever I need to replace it.

You can purchase the Tramontina Professional 10-Inch Non Stick Frying Pan on Amazon for $34.99.

- Hannah Fullmer

Bigger isn't always better, and that holds true for the tools that you use in your kitchen. There are plenty of small appliances that offer big impact on the way you cook and clean.

Our small appliance award winners cover everything a serious kitchen needs, from stand mixers to blenders, air fryers, and beyond. The tools selected have earned their chops, having been suggested for their crucial functions, intuitive use, and quality output. Add a consideration for aesthetics and value, and you've got a list of picks that will make cooking easier while leaving more options to optimize your precious kitchen space. 

Cosori's 9-in-1 Air Fryer Pro keeps things sleek and simple without sacrificing versatility. I use it multiple times a week to fry up everything from sweet potato discs to salmon to chocolate soufflé, and the results are always cooked-through and delicious. Its nine modes include "Preheat" and "Keep Warm" functions, plus cooking presets for chicken, fries, frozen foods, steak, seafood, veggies, and even bacon. For serious cooking jobs, it can reach temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and cook times up to one hour.

The touch panel is super user-friendly — I started using this appliance straight out of the box without even consulting the manual (unwise but hopefully relatable) and haven't experienced any issues. Using the "Shake" feature is also a breeze. With this function enabled, the air fryer beeps halfway through the set cook time, allowing you to remove the basket, shake the contents for even cooking, and resume heating, all without resetting the temperature or timer. The beeps are on the louder side, but the fryer's hum is barely noticeable.

The 5-quart basket and crisper tray have an easy-to-clean ceramic coating, and both can go straight in the dishwasher. The appliance itself has a pretty small footprint (11.7 x 10.8 inches), so it's the ideal countertop tool for frequent fryers. Plus, it's modestly priced at about $90 — still double digits, but not so cheap as to throw its longevity into question.

Get the Cosori's 9-in-1 Air Fryer Pro on Amazon for $99.99.

- Sarah Blumert

I live in Arizona, where it's hot practically year-round and using my oven quickly sends my kitchen to temps of 95 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. This means that I end up using my air fryer more than my actual oven. When the Breville model I had been using since the mid-2000s died, I wanted to find a new one that would last just as long.

Although a more expensive air fryer isn't always the better choice, I didn't want a budget off-brand appliance that could prove unsafe or that would die in less than a year. I read thousands of customer reviews and made a list of my must-haves for the appliance. I wanted one that was large enough to fit a 12-inch frozen pizza and that could air-fry tater tots, fries, and chicken strips to perfection. It also needed to be an established brand with a reputation for quality, so that I could depend on it lasting for at least a few years. I already knew that I trusted Breville, as the brand was responsible for making a toaster oven that had lasted me over 10 years.

Plus, one of the best Breville smart appliances according to reviews is the brand's Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, which checked all of my boxes: Sleek, stylish, and big enough for a pizza — in fact, it can even fit a 14-pound turkey, 5-quart Dutch oven, and a 12-muffin tray. It offers 13 cooking functions and utilizes super convection technology, allowing me to air-fry tots, meatballs, and more to perfection in 10 minutes or less.

Purchase the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro at Amazon for around $400.

- Dee Lopez

The Cuisinart Custom 14 Cup Food Processor stands above the competition thanks to its durability and versatility. I love that this handy machine can do everything from chopping mirepoix for my sauces and pureeing pesto and hummus until silky smooth, to kneading pie and biscuit dough. And its capacity allows me to whip up large batches in one go, with a convenient feed tube that saves me time (and mess). This food processor is a true powerhouse that can do it all, which is why it's a permanent fixture in my kitchen.

Simplicity also helps set this food processor apart; it just makes my life so much easier when I'm cooking, baking, or prepping. With only an on/off and pulse button and a selection of great attachments, this tool doesn't overcomplicate things or require me to consult a product manual to figure out a dozen different settings. It's stayed strong for years, and in my opinion has more than delivered on the value for its price.

Cuisinart is a long-standing brand with a good reputation. And when it comes to this piece of equipment in particular, I'm not the only one who thinks it's a winner, as evidenced by thousands of positive customer reviews. It's highly rated at 4.7 stars from nearly 2,000 reviews on the Cuisinart website, with 95% of customers recommending it. A great food processor doesn't need frills. The Custom 14 Cup Food Processor does the job, almost every job, and does it well.

Purchase the Cuisinart Custom 14 Cup Food Processor on Amazon for $249.95.

- Carly Weaver

Sometimes, when choosing a kitchen appliance, it's best to go with the originator: KitchenAid invented the stand mixer in the early 20th century, and the company's version of this appliance has never been surpassed.

It's a truism that "they don't make stuff like they used to," but that doesn't apply to the KitchenAid; the mixer's retro midcentury look is matched by its sturdy midcentury construction. This thing is heavy, and it's designed to take a lot of abuse in the kitchen without any complaints or breakdowns. Whether kneading sticky bread dough for 15 minutes or whipping egg whites to a light foam, the KitchenAid accomplishes everything you want from a mixer with aplomb.

Another advantage of buying the industry standard mixer that hasn't changed much in decades is that it's easy to buy accessories and parts for KitchenAid mixers without fear that they'll be incompatible or that the base mixer will be discontinued. Everything from replacement bowls to pasta makers to meat grinders are readily available and should fit your KitchenAid machine, whether you bought it in 2026 or 1996. This makes the KitchenAid mixer a versatile, and irreplaceable, kitchen essential.

The KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-quart stand mixer is available from Walmart for $399.99.

- Crawford Smith

As a caterer who works in an industrial kitchen, I regularly whip up party-sized pastries and dips using a 20-quart stand mixer. But at home, when the ingredient volume is smaller and I don't want to lug my 5-quart Cuisinart up from the basement (or clean it after I'm done), my go-to blending workhorse is a KitchenAid 5-Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer.

After sampling other highly-rated hand mixers over the years -– a Hamilton Beach that handled the basics but lumbered through anything thicker than brownie batter and a Breville that I use only for quick jobs at work because that sucker is heavy –- I recently settled on KitchenAid's 5-speed model as my hand-mixing soul mate. Lighter and quieter than many of its peers, it has five speeds starting with super slow. Not only does this reduce cream splashes and powdered sugar storms in my kitchen, it allows me to ease into more nuanced tasks like muffins and quick breads, where overmixing is a common mistake. It also incorporates nuts, chocolate chunks, and other additions without missing a beat. I don't use it for kneading dough or anything heavy duty, but I know this model has attachments you can order for those tasks. At its highest speed, it whips egg whites into meringue like a champ without vibrating the bowl (or my arm). And in the end, I can eject the beaters without getting my hands dirty thanks to a quick release button.

Purchase the KitchenAid 5-Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer from KitchenAid for $59.99.

- Liz Jaros

In my years as a professional cook, I worked restaurants of all levels, from food trucks to sports bars to fine dining places. One piece of equipment was always the same, no matter what type of restaurant I was in: the Vitamix 5200 blender.

The Vitamix 5200 is the workhorse of professional kitchens because it eliminates all unnecessary features. In a world where blender companies try to stand out from the competition by adding a bunch of blades, throwing in extra blend settings, or trying to be a food processor too, the 5200 is defiantly simple: on/off, a speed control, and a turbo switch, all running to two basic blades at the bottom of the blender carafe.

The appliance's singlemindedness means it focuses on being the best possible blender, with no distractions. Its motor is terrifyingly powerful, and I've never used another blender that could get its blades spinning this fast. Pureed soups become velvety-smooth, with no need for pushing through a sieve. Thick foods like hummus don't even come close to jamming the blades or over-taxing the motor. Mayonnaise comes together in about 5 seconds. Spices get ground into a fine, uniform powder at the blink of an eye. I've even used the Vitamix to grind coffee and mill grains into flour. Sure, it's more expensive than most of its competitors, but you'll get a lifetime of use out of it — in my experience, these are basically impossible to break.

Buy the Vitamix 5200 from the manufacturer for $499.95.

- Crawford Smith

Anyone who knows me knows that I don't like to spend a ton of money on kitchen appliances. However, from one stingy shopper to another, you better believe that a Zojirushi rice cooker is worth it. My Zojirushi NP-HCC10XH was the yard sale find of a century — costing just $5. This high-tech rice cooker has lasted me almost 10 years now, and I assume that it will last me at least 10 more.

Aside from making standard rice, it also makes sushi rice, porridge, brown rice, quick rice (my go-to setting), sweet rice, and more. And the rice turns out consistent every single time. I've never had a technical failure with this rice cooker and find that it cooks every single grain equally. I also appreciate its large capacity — capping out at 5.5 cups — which comes in handy for meal-prepping for the week. You might side-eye its $400-plus price tag, but after you cook with it, you'll understand why there is no reason to buy any other brand but Zojirushi.

Purchase the Zojirushi Induction Heating System Rice Cooker and Warmer on Amazon for $419.95.

- Sara Klimek

Rice cookers, yogurt makers, and steaming baskets, stand aside. There's not much that an Instant Pot Electric Pressure Cooker can't do. In fact, I use our Instant Pot so frequently that I often wish we had two. Its automatic nature removes the need to wait around counting whistles, and its burn warning has been especially handy during those times I've forgotten to add water altogether. A few years ago, we purchased the air fryer lid attachment and still regularly use it to make crispy tofu.

To get the most out of your Instant Pot, purchase a dedicated Instant Pot cookbook to help you get familiar with the machine and its many uses. Or, check out our list of Instant Pot recipes to make on busy weeknights. It won't take long to get used to the intuitive interface and learn how to adjust pressure, add or reduce cooking time, and release steam.

There are more advanced versions of the Instant Pot, but this is the one I'd buy again for myself and recommend to others who are just getting started. I don't use all the functions on my current pot, so can't imagine getting much use out of the more expensive versions with additional buttons.

Purchase the Instant Pot Duo 6 Quart 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker for $109.99 on Amazon.

- Sierra Winters

After my trusty dual-drip coffee maker with a heated water reservoir died, I decided to streamline my coffee and tea process to better suit my workspace — which notably doesn't have a stovetop for the traditional kettle I had. That's exactly where my Fellow gooseneck kettle came in. While the price seemed steep when I was shopping and buying, I've never looked back or had an issue in the five years I've used the Fellow Stagg EKG electric kettle. I love that the newer model has tons of handy controls that I can readily opt in and out of with a twist of the knob.

While features such as the pre-boil function and timer are easy to use and convenient, I particularly appreciate the pre-set temperatures. This makes switching from the ideal temperature for my pour-over coffee to a lower temperature that's perfect for my afternoon cup of tea an easy option that doesn't require any thought. Another feature I frequently use is its ability to accurately hold the set temperature — followed by an automatic shut-off after up to an hour. Apart from the sleek aesthetics of this kettle, the gooseneck is quite efficient for precise pouring.

The Fellow Stagg EKG Electric Kettle starts at $180 directly from Fellow.

- Molly Harris

This convenient countertop Cuisinart machine single-handedly unlocked my passion for making ice cream. I had tried the Ziploc freezer bag method as a child and found the results so disappointing that I assumed only professionals could make real ice cream. But since adding this ice cream maker to my wedding registry on a whim, I've made dozens of recipes over half a decade.

The included freezer bowl is essentially a large ice pack that will hold its frozen temperature as the machine churns up to 2 quarts of your favorite ice cream, frozen yogurt, or sherbet. Simply pour the mixture into the frozen bowl and toggle the only knob to "on." While churning, it's easy to pour mix-ins through the large-mouth cover, if desired. Either way, it will be done churning in less than 30 minutes.

There are many ice cream makers on the market, but this one is the best because of its simplicity. It's intuitive to use, effortlessly easy to clean, there appear to be few moving parts to break down, and there's no touchscreen that will eventually malfunction. It simply churns a frozen dessert, and churns it well. No more, no less.

Purchase the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker, 2 qt on Amazon for $99.94.

- Bobby Lewis

Much to my dentist's chagrin, I can't stop chewing ice. So after a decade plus of constantly refilling ice cube trays and doing unknown amounts of damage to my teeth, I knew it was time for a change. And that change was nugget ice.

Enter the GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker, which I can say with all seriousness has greatly improved my quality of life. When I was shopping around for an ice maker (though, full disclosure, GE did send me a sample of the Opal 2.0) I was most concerned with the size of the machine and how much noise it would make. My Opal hits the mark in both categories: It's compact enough to fit under my desk without crowding me or my precious kitchen counter space. It makes so little noise I don't even notice it, including at night.

The GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker is super easy to clean and you can even buy special filters for the water chamber so you don't have to descale it as often as other ice machines require you to. The Opal works quickly, meaning I can expect ice within a few minutes of turning it on — crucial for hot summer days or when I'm shaking up some fun cocktails for friends. And of course the best part, this machine makes ice that is the perfect combo of soft and crunchy. True nugget ice fans (or at least fellow ice chewers tired of being scolded by the dentist) need this machine in their kitchen.

Buy the GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker on Amazon for $449.

- Heather Clark

If you or someone you know is having a tough time making quality coffee, we're here to get your morning off to the right start. There are plenty of ways to step up your brew-making process and save you money — forget that pricey Starbucks run!  

Our team of writers includes coffee fanatics and industry professionals, from former and current baristas to award-winning roasters. They're here to provide picks for the best home espresso machines, single cup brewers, and stovetop coffee makers, along with other essentials like grinders and milk frothers. These award winners are all you need to turn your regular everyday cup of joe into a full experience.

The mantra, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it," is a fitting description for my feelings about the Bialetti moka pot. It's been around forever (well, since 1933 anyway), and with proper care it'll probably last forever, too. No, really, the simple, Italian-made aluminum tool has been known to last generations.

A Bialetti moka pot doesn't need computerized mechanisms to make gorgeous, bold coffee day after day — its only requirements are coffee grounds, water, and a heat source. Plus, it's portable, so you don't have to disrupt your coffee routine if it's something sacred to you. Take your moka pot camping, bring it to your friend's house, or stash it in your work bag before putting in some hours at the office.

Bialetti's moka pot was the first mass-produced design of its kind and has spawned many imitations. There's no harm in using one from another brand; I just happen to have a thing for the original. The plain aluminum model is the most classic, but Bialetti now offers a host of colors and designs. Sizes range from 1 cup to 18 cups, and you can customize the strength of your brew by manually adjusting your grounds to water ratio (more grounds + less water = stronger coffee).

Purchase a Bialetti 3-cup moka pot from Amazon for $49.99.

- Mary K. Cahill

I drink a coffee every single day, so I need an espresso machine that can not only keep up but also offer numerous beverage options in a single machine. This, along with the seamless design and operation, is why I love my Ninja Luxe Café Espresso Machine. For one, the machine is probably smarter than I am; it has a built-in grinder that will adjust based on the whole beans you add to it (note that this machine only takes whole beans) and the drink you're preparing, whether it's espresso, drip coffee, over ice coffee, cold brew, or even espressos for your espresso martini cocktail.

Another facet of this machine that I love is that it has a hands-free milk frother. You don't need to stand next to the machine, holding the milk jug at a precarious angle to ensure that it steams just right. Add the milk to one of the lines (it has 5- and 8-ounce lines so you know how much milk you need for a cappuccino or a latte), pop it in the slot, and walk away. You can set the milk setting to high or low froth and even make a cold foam for your coffee. The auto-purge function also comes in handy for cleaning.

For the price, this is a terrific and easy-to-use machine. It's one that I often recommend to family and friends because you don't need to have barista-level training to use it. I wouldn't trade mine for the world.

Purchase the Ninja Luxe Cafè Espresso Machine on Amazon for $599.99.

- Sara Klimek

In a world of Keurigs and Nespressos, you'd have to fight me for my Dolce Gusto, thank you very much. I've had it for six years now, and despite being a coffee enthusiast, I never felt the need to upgrade it for a fancier machine. I adore its simplicity and efficiency, and I'll happily sing its praises any day. To me, this is the greatest single-serve coffee maker on the market because it allows you to have the best of both worlds. It makes fantastic espresso, lungo, Americano, or any other type of black coffee you can find the pods for.

But unlike most single-serve coffee makers, it can also make barista-style drinks, hot or iced, with pods alone — cappuccino, latte, chococcino, white mocha, etc. You also have complete control over how much coffee and milk you want in your cup, so there's plenty of room for customization, which I really enjoy. My favorite time to use the Dolce Gusto is when I have company; it just makes such good coffee, and I feel extra special when I can serve someone's favorite café drink right in my home, within a few seconds, with zero fuss.

You can find a new NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto on Amazon for $124.54.

- Luna Lupus

As a veteran coffee professional who loves filter brews, I'm fascinated by how many drip machine options there are. Modern coffee gear companies keep unveiling new models that brew coffee in this way— some even integrating Bluetooth features and Wi-Fi connectivity. But I always come back to a decidedly low-tech, analog dinosaur compared to modern brewers: the Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV. This Dutch company began making filter coffee machines by hand in 1969, and anything made by hand just screams "quality."

Beyond the quality the company is known for, what also makes these machines my favorite is their timeless aesthetics. So many big-box store coffee makers look clunky, best hidden away in cupboards after they've birthed a fresh pot. I've owned my gorgeous Moccamaster KBGV for six years now, and I can attest that it makes a consistently stellar brew, mostly because it can heat the water up to 205 degrees F. Cheaper machines simply can't get the brew water hot enough, and this results in uneven brews. The Moccamaster heats up quickly and, over five minutes, evenly extracts the grounds in the brew basket. I get tons of comments from guests about my KBGV — which I proudly display on the counter — for both its looks and the tasty coffee it makes.

Buy a Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV on Amazon for $353.10.

- Jon Dempsey

Fellow, a San Francisco-based coffee company, has been making elevated, design-forward coffee gear for over a decade. We coffee pros have taken notice and, beyond the sleek looks, tend to agree that the brand's gadgets are legit. I've owned and tested dozens of Fellow products, but I use my Ode Brew Grinder Gen 2 daily.

As someone who really appreciates kitchen gear with a strong Venn overlap of design and performance, I was drawn to Ode when I set out to upgrade my grinder. Good design is timeless, and the Ode channels the sophistication and minimalism into a stunning workhorse. The newest Gen 2 Ode features 31 grind settings, giving me plenty of versatility; it can handle everything from moka pots to French press to Chemex. It comes with 64-millimeter burrs, which not only makes for better flavor separation, but also increases its durability. It also has a magnetic catch cup, an anti-static ionizer, which makes it easy to clean, and a PID-controlled motor that automatically stops when the beans are properly pulverized. With so much functionality, this is, without a doubt, my favorite grinder I've owned.

You can find the Ode Brew Grinder Gen 2 on Amazon for $399.95.

- Jon Dempsey

I don't need barista-grade latte art at home, but I do love a little foam in my morning coffee. As such, I really wanted a simple, handheld frother. Enter: A string of disappointments as I bought frother after frother, each either dying within a year or being abysmally weak and barely creating any respectable foam. And then, my sister gifted me the SEVERIN milk frother for Christmas four years ago. I still have it, and it still works as perfectly as it did the very first day.

This little thing is powerful, let's start with that. It froths the milk to a creamy perfection within seconds. I love experimenting with plant-based milks and the Severin will froth almond and oat milk with the same vigor as full-fat dairy milk. After a while, I wanted to see what else it could do, so I started using it for mixing vinaigrettes; honestly, a 10/10 experience. After each use, it only needs a tiny drop of detergent and some hot water to get clean, and it's as good as new — no lingering flavors whatsoever.

It runs on batteries, which last me several months even with daily use. I'm not exaggerating when I say that this is my dream milk frother. It does exactly what I need it to do, lives on my countertop, and is the key piece of my morning coffee routine. Thanks, little sis!

Get your own SEVERIN milk frother on Amazon for $28.25.

- Luna Lupus