Anthony Bourdain Called This Kitchen Tool ‘Essential,’ and It Only Costs $15

There were a number of kitchen tools the late, great Anthony Bourdain considered “essential.” According to this recently resurfaced 2009 interview, he said spending money on high-end versions of heavy-bottomed stockpots and serrated knives is “worth it” for efficiency and longevity, but he also recommended a few gadgets with small price tags and outsized importance in the kitchen. Among them, the humble Microplane. Only $15 at Amazon, this handy gadget is likely to become one of your favorite tools, as it has for so many Food & Wine editors. 

Microplane Classic Zester Grater 

It’s easy to dismiss such a small and seemingly unimportant gadget, but a sharp zester can make a world of difference when zesting lemons or grating nutmeg seeds. “Sharp” is the operative word here. After years of testing, we’ve come to the realization that not all brands are created equal. Some less expensive models with duller edges force you to exert more pressure while grating, often leading to bitter-tasting pith finding its way into your dish. A Microplane, on the other hand, requires very little effort thanks to its ultra-sharp teeth. 

Bourdain and our editors aren’t the only ones to swear by Microplane. Over 9,000 Amazon shoppers gave it a perfect rating for its dishwasher-safe design, comfortable handle, and honed serrations. One reviewer called it “a must-have kitchen tool,” adding that its “ultra-sharp stainless steel blades effortlessly zest citrus fruits, grate cheese, garlic, ginger, and more with minimal effort.” Another satisfied customer dubbed it the “magic wand of the culinary world” because of its “sharp blade, comfortable grip, and versatile nature.” A third shopper wrote that “no other fine grater should ever be made or bought,” since Microplane’s zester is so much better than its competition. 

You don’t often find kitchen tools with such glowing reviews. Follow the lead of Anthony Bourdain, editors who test kitchen gear for a living, and home cooks, all of whom can’t recommend Microplane’s Classic Zester Grater enough. It’s a versatile, long-lasting tool with a $15 price tag. What’s not to love?    

Shop More Kitchen Tools at Amazon

Jayvar Onion Holder 

Zulay Kitchen Premium Garlic Press Set 

OXO Good Grips Handheld Mandoline Slicer 

KitchenAid Gourmet Stainless Steel Wire Masher 

At the time of publishing, the price was $15.