Buy artisanal Japanese knives, cast-iron cookware and more at this local store
By Home & Decor Team -
If you’re looking to up the ante in the kitchen, start with your knives. You may get artisanal knives at Razorsharp, one of the first retailers to bring Japanese knives (handcrafted cutlery of carbon steel) into Singapore.
David Lim, a former computer hardware vendor, started Razorsharp in 2002 . “I believe mine is the only shop in Singapore to offer such serious Japanese knives. In the beginning, turnover was slow, but over the last three to four years, the market has come to appreciate it. So much skilled craftsmanship goes into them,” he says.
In his shop, you'll find the elegant Kasumi knives from Seki, Japan, the Wusthof series with ergonomic handles from Germany, and custom ordered knives as well. Of them all, the Japanese Honyaki range (brought in from all over Japan) is the most fascinating; these prized knives are hand-forged from a single piece of carbon steel and represent the highest level of traditional craftsmanship. Only a few skilled craftsmen can make these knives, and as the process is time- consuming, quantity is limited.
(Pictured: The Gyuto, the Japanese version of the classic Western chef’s knife.)
The store also stocks cookware and accessories such as Lodge Cast Iron Cookware from the US, Japanese-style charcoal grills, and culinary tweezers.But what sets Razorsharp apart from other kitchenware providers is its expertise in knife care, and a willingness to share that knowledge with fellow enthusiasts. Sharpening and repair services are also available at the shop for a fee.
(Pictured: Cast iron tea kettle by Oigen Maromiarare)
“I have customers asking me how to sharpen and how to repair their knives, so I had to pick up the skill. In those days, I had to learn by observation and practice, as the professionals would only demonstrate, but not let you in on the details.”
(Pictured: The Suribachi grinding bowl)
Those who are keen to dive into the intricacies of fine blades can add this speciality store to their list. Visit the store at #01-03 Tan Boon Liat Building; Tel: 6227-7515; www.razorsharp.com.sg.
(Pictured: The Japanese Konro barbecue grill, which is great for doing yakitori.)
This story was first published on The Peak.