Finding quality kitchen knives at a reasonable price can be challenging, as many affordable options sacrifice durability or sharpness. The Amazon Basics Color-Coded Kitchen Knife Set stands out for its budget-friendly price and dishwasher-safe design, making it ideal for everyday use. The imarku Santoku Knife offers a sharp edge and Japanese craftsmanship at a modest cost, perfect for those seeking versatility. However, lower-priced knives often mean compromises on blade longevity, handle comfort, or overall build quality. Continue reading for a detailed comparison to help you choose the best value knives for your kitchen needs.
Key Takeaways
- Top picks balance affordability with sufficient blade sharpness and durability for everyday tasks.
- Sets with added features like blade guards or color-coding offer convenience but may increase cost slightly.
- Higher-rated options tend to have better handle ergonomics and edge retention without a significant price premium.
- Simple, focused sets often outperform multi-piece collections that include less-useful tools in terms of value.
- Many budget-friendly knives are suitable for beginner cooks but may need eventual replacement for heavy use.
| Amazon Basics Color-Coded Dishwasher Safe Kitchen Knife Set, 12-Piece with Ergonomic Handles, Non-stick Sharp Blades, Multicolor |  | Best Budget for Color-Coded Safety | Number of Items: 12 | Blade Material: Stainless steel | Blade Coating: Non-stick | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| COKUMA 3-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Sheaths, 8-Inch Chef, 4.5-Inch Utility, 4-Inch Paring, Stainless Steel, Black |  | Best for Versatile Daily Use | Set Includes: 8″ Chef, 4.5″ Utility, 4″ Paring | Material: German High-Quality Steel (3CR13MOV) | Handle Material: ABS | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Astercook 15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Block and Sharpener |  | Best for All-in-One Value | Number of Items: 15 | Included Components: Sharpener, knife block, knives | Material: High-carbon German stainless steel | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Astercook 13-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Anti-Rust Coating and Blade Guards |  | Best for Safe Storage and Outdoor Use | Number of Items: 13 | Included Components: 6 blade guards, knives, shears | Material: Stainless Steel | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| CAROTE 12-Piece Knife Set with Wood-Grain Handles |  | Best for Everyday and Travel Use | Number of Items: 12 | Included Components: Various knives, blade guards | Blade Construction: Single-piece stainless steel | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Astercook 6-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Block |  | Best Overall Value for Stylish, Practical Sets | Brand: Astercook | Number of Items: 6 | Included Components: Kitchen shears, 7″ Kitchen Knife, 8″ Chef Knife, 8″ Slicing Knife, 5″ Utility Knife, Knife Block | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| imarku Santoku Knife 7 Inch with Sharp Japanese High Carbon Stainless Steel |  | Best for Precision and Versatility in a Single Knife | Blade Length: 7 inches | Material: Japanese high carbon stainless steel | Edge Angle: 15-18 degrees per side | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Astercook 12-Piece Color-Coded Kitchen Knife Set with Blade Guards |  | Best for Safety and Color-Coded Organization | Number of Items: 12 | Blade Types: Chef, Slicing, Santoku, Bread, Utility, Paring | Material: Stainless Steel | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lasnten 100 Pcs 8.78-Inch Stainless Steel Steak Knives Set |  | Best for Large-Scale Catering and Bulk Serving | Material (Blade): 2CR13 stainless steel | Handle Material: Polypropylene plastic | Overall Length: 8.78 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Alata 8-Piece Steak Knives Set, 4.7 Inch Full-Tang Serrated Sharp Knives |  | Best for Effortless Slicing and Daily Use | Number of Items: 8 | Blade Edge: Serrated | Construction Type: Forged | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| value kitchen knife | Number of Items | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Basics Color-Coded Dish | 12 | — |
| COKUMA 3-Piece Kitchen Knife S | — | German High-Quality Steel (3CR13MOV) |
| Astercook 15-Piece Kitchen Kni | 15 | High-carbon German stainless steel |
| Astercook 13-Piece Kitchen Kni | 13 | Stainless Steel |
| CAROTE 12-Piece Knife Set with | 12 | — |
| Astercook 6-Piece Kitchen Knif | 6 | — |
| imarku Santoku Knife 7 Inch wi | — | Japanese high carbon stainless steel |
| Astercook 12-Piece Color-Coded | 12 | Stainless Steel |
| Lasnten 100 Pcs 8.78-Inch Stai | — | — |
| Alata 8-Piece Steak Knives Set | 8 | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Amazon Basics Color-Coded Dishwasher Safe Kitchen Knife Set, 12-Piece with Ergonomic Handles, Non-stick Sharp Blades, Multicolor
This set stands out for its practical color-coded design, which helps prevent cross-contamination—an essential feature for busy kitchens or those handling diverse ingredients. Compared with the Astercook 15-Piece Set, it offers fewer knives but emphasizes safety and ease of identification. The non-stick coatings facilitate cleaner cuts and less food sticking, which speeds up prep work. However, the plastic blade guards might wear over time, and the set is limited mostly to basic kitchen knives, lacking specialized options. It’s a solid choice for home cooks prioritizing safety and organization without a hefty price tag.
Pros:- Color-coded system reduces cross-contamination risk
- Non-stick blades for cleaner, faster cutting
- Ergonomic handles enhance comfort during extended prep
Cons:- Plastic blade guards may wear or break over time
- Limited to basic knives, not suitable for complex culinary tasks
Best for: Home cooks seeking an affordable, safe, and organized knife set for everyday use
Not ideal for: Professional chefs or users needing specialized knives for precise tasks or heavy-duty cutting
- Number of Items:12
- Blade Material:Stainless steel
- Blade Coating:Non-stick
- Handle Type:Ergonomic
- Includes:6 knives with blade guards
- Dimensions:13.88 x 4.13 x 1.38 inches
Our verdict“This set is perfect for budget-conscious users who want safe, everyday kitchen knives with easy organization.”
COKUMA 3-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Sheaths, 8-Inch Chef, 4.5-Inch Utility, 4-Inch Paring, Stainless Steel, Black
This set offers high-quality German steel blades that excel in durability and sharpness, making it a reliable option for those who want a small but versatile collection. Unlike the Astercook 15-Piece Set, it provides only three essential knives but emphasizes craftsmanship and control with ergonomic handles and matching sheaths for safe storage. The need for hand washing and the limited number of knives mean it’s less adaptable for larger households or specialized cooking. It’s a smart pick for serious home cooks who prefer high-grade steel in a compact, manageable set.
Pros:- High-quality German steel blades for longevity and sharpness
- Ergonomic handles provide excellent control
- Includes protective sheaths for safe storage and transport
Cons:- Not dishwasher safe; requires hand washing
- Limited to three knives, may require additional sets for comprehensive needs
Best for: Home cooks who value quality and precision in a small, manageable set
Not ideal for: Large families or those who want a full range of knives for diverse tasks
- Set Includes:8″ Chef, 4.5″ Utility, 4″ Paring
- Material:German High-Quality Steel (3CR13MOV)
- Handle Material:ABS
- Blade Hardness:56 ± 2 HRC
- Blade Construction:Forged
- Dishwasher Safe:No
Our verdict“Ideal for users who want durable, sharp knives in a compact, quality-focused package for everyday tasks.”
Astercook 15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Block and Sharpener
This comprehensive 15-piece set provides a broad selection of knives, including a built-in sharpener and a sturdy hardwood block, making it suitable for families or enthusiasts who want a complete kitchen tool collection. Compared with the smaller COKUMA set, it offers more variety and convenient maintenance features. The high-carbon German stainless steel ensures durability, but the black coating might show wear over time, and the heavier weight could challenge some users. It’s best for those who want an all-in-one solution that covers most kitchen prep needs with minimal extra purchases.
Pros:- Includes a wide variety of knives and accessories for diverse tasks
- Built-in sharpener simplifies maintenance
- Durable high-carbon German stainless steel construction
Cons:- Black coating may wear or chip over time
- Heavy knives may be tiring for prolonged use
Best for: Home cooks who want a complete, ready-to-use knife collection with maintenance included
Not ideal for: Users seeking lightweight knives or minimalistic sets for small kitchens
- Number of Items:15
- Included Components:Sharpener, knife block, knives
- Material:High-carbon German stainless steel
- Blade Lengths:7, 8, 7, 5, 3.5 inches
- Knife Types:Chef, slicing, Santoku, bread, utility, paring, steak knives, shears
- Dishwasher Safe:Yes
Our verdict“A strong choice for those wanting a full, versatile set with easy upkeep and a lifetime warranty.”
Astercook 13-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Anti-Rust Coating and Blade Guards
This set emphasizes durability with stainless steel blades coated for anti-rust and non-stick performance, complemented by blade guards for secure storage. Compared with the 15-piece version, it offers fewer types but prioritizes safe handling and outdoor-friendly features. The lack of specific handle details and limited sharpness info suggest it’s better suited for casual or outdoor cooks rather than high-precision culinary tasks. It’s a practical choice for those who want secure, rust-resistant knives that are dishwasher safe and easy to carry around.
Pros:- Stainless steel blades with anti-rust coating for durability
- Includes blade guards for safe storage
- Dishwasher safe, suitable for outdoor and casual use
Cons:- Lack of detail on handle material and grip comfort
- Limited info on edge retention or sharpness durability
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts and casual cooks who need rust-resistant, safe-to-store knives
Not ideal for: Professional chefs or serious home cooks seeking detailed handle ergonomics or premium sharpness
- Number of Items:13
- Included Components:6 blade guards, knives, shears
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Coating:Anti-rust, Non-stick
- Blade Types:Chef, Slicing, Santoku, Bread, Utility, Paring
- Blade Guards:Yes
Our verdict“This set is well-suited for outdoor, casual, or space-conscious users who prioritize rust resistance and safety.”
CAROTE 12-Piece Knife Set with Wood-Grain Handles
This set combines stainless steel blades with a non-stick ceramic coating, complemented by attractive wood-grain handles and blade guards. Compared with the other sets, it emphasizes portability and style, making it suitable for everyday cooking, camping, or RV life. While the ceramic coating ensures sharpness and easy cleaning, the lack of detailed warranty information and uncertain edge longevity might concern more demanding users. It’s a good fit for those who want durable, stylish knives that are easy to carry and maintain in casual settings.
Pros:- Sharp, durable stainless steel blades with non-stick coating
- Ergonomic wood-grain handles for comfortable grip
- Blade guards for safe storage and portability
Cons:- No specific warranty details provided
- Limited info on blade edge types—serrated or plain
Best for: Travelers, campers, and casual cooks who need reliable, portable knives with a stylish look
Not ideal for: Professional chefs or those requiring heavy-duty or specialized knives for complex tasks
- Number of Items:12
- Included Components:Various knives, blade guards
- Blade Construction:Single-piece stainless steel
- Handle Material:Wood-grain finish
- Blade Coating:Ceramic nonstick
- Warranty:Not specified
Our verdict“A practical, stylish set ideal for casual cooking, travel, or outdoor use where portability matters.”
Astercook 6-Piece Kitchen Knife Set with Block
This set stands out for combining a sleek, modern design with high functionality. The high carbon stainless steel blades deliver excellent sharpness and rust resistance, making it a reliable choice compared to the more basic Amazon Basics set. The wood grain handle and stylish black knife block elevate the look of any kitchen, though they may require delicate cleaning to maintain appearance. While slightly more expensive than entry-level options, the set’s balanced blades and ergonomic handles reduce wrist fatigue during extended use. Its dishwasher-safe feature adds convenience, but the premium design might not suit those on an ultra-tight budget. Overall, this set makes a strong case for those seeking value without sacrificing style or performance.
Pros:- Elegant wood grain handle and modern aesthetic
- High carbon stainless steel blades resist rust and stay sharp
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
- Balanced, ergonomic handles reduce wrist fatigue
Cons:- More expensive than basic knife sets
- Wood handles require careful cleaning to avoid damage
Best for: Home cooks who want an elegant, durable set that enhances their kitchen aesthetics and offers versatility.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers who prefer basic, no-frills knives and are less concerned with appearance or ergonomic design.
- Brand:Astercook
- Number of Items:6
- Included Components:Kitchen shears, 7″ Kitchen Knife, 8″ Chef Knife, 8″ Slicing Knife, 5″ Utility Knife, Knife Block
- Item Length:11.8 inches
- Model Number:A60.K060119P
- Best Sellers Rank:#539 in Kitchen & Dining, #1 in Kitchen Utility Knives
Our verdict“This set is ideal for those who value style and durability at a reasonable price point, offering a balanced mix of form and function.”
imarku Santoku Knife 7 Inch with Sharp Japanese High Carbon Stainless Steel
This 7-inch santoku excels at slicing, dicing, and mincing, making it a versatile addition compared to the more specialized utility knives. The Japanese high carbon stainless steel blade provides a sharper edge that maintains its performance longer, although it may require more frequent sharpening than softer steel. The hollow edge design reduces food sticking, improving efficiency, while the ergonomic pakkawood handle offers comfort and stability during prolonged prep. Compared to inexpensive utility knives, this santoku’s quality steel and design make it more suitable for daily use, yet handle maintenance and regular sharpening are necessary tradeoffs. It’s best suited for cooks who want a reliable, sharp all-rounder without paying for a full knife block.
Pros:- Sharpened with high carbon stainless steel for durability
- Hollow edge reduces sticking for easier slicing
- Ergonomic pakkawood handle provides comfort
- Suitable for both home and professional kitchens
Cons:- Handle may crack if not maintained properly
- Edge needs regular sharpening to stay effective
Best for: Home cooks and semi-professionals seeking a single, high-performance knife for multiple prep tasks.
Not ideal for: Those who prefer a full set or dislike maintaining high-carbon steel blades, as they require careful handling and frequent sharpening.
- Blade Length:7 inches
- Material:Japanese high carbon stainless steel
- Edge Angle:15-18 degrees per side
- Handle Material:Pakkawood
- Thickness:2.5mm
Our verdict“This santoku is a smart choice for versatile, high-quality prep work, especially for those willing to care for a sharper blade.”
Astercook 12-Piece Color-Coded Kitchen Knife Set with Blade Guards
This comprehensive 12-piece set emphasizes safety, making it ideal for kitchens with multiple users or beginners. The color-coded, anti-rust coating helps prevent cross-contamination, especially useful for those who cook different types of food regularly. The set includes various essential knives, comparable to the Amazon Basics set but with the added benefit of blade guards for safe storage. The stainless steel blades are durable and dishwasher safe, though the coating might wear over time, and handle comfort details are limited. This set is perfect for those who prioritize safety and organization in a busy or shared kitchen but may not satisfy those seeking specialized or premium-quality knives.
Pros:- Color-coded design enhances safety and prevents cross-contamination
- Durable stainless steel with anti-rust coating
- Includes blade guards for safe storage
- Dishwasher safe for convenience
Cons:- Color coating may wear over time
- Handle comfort details are limited
Best for: Families or shared kitchens needing safe, organized, and durable knives for daily use.
Not ideal for: Serious cooks seeking high-end, long-lasting blades or those wanting a small, minimalist collection.
- Number of Items:12
- Blade Types:Chef, Slicing, Santoku, Bread, Utility, Paring
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Coating:Anti-Rust, Color-Coded
- Dishwasher Safe:Yes
- Warranty:Lifetime
Our verdict“This set offers a practical, safe solution for busy households needing a variety of knives with organized storage.”
Lasnten 100 Pcs 8.78-Inch Stainless Steel Steak Knives Set
This set of 100 steak knives is tailored for high-volume environments like catering or large family gatherings. The 8.78-inch length and pointed tips make slicing through cooked meats effortless, offering a level of durability and consistency not typically seen in smaller sets. The 2CR13 stainless steel blades resist corrosion and wear, while the plastic handles provide a comfortable grip. Compared to smaller steak knife sets, this bulk option is budget-friendly for large events, but the manual measurements can lead to slight inconsistencies, and the pointed tips require careful handling for safety. It’s a practical choice for bulk serving, although it’s not suitable for everyday fine dining due to the generic design.
Pros:- Large quantity suitable for big gatherings
- Durable stainless steel resists corrosion
- Comfortable plastic handles reduce fatigue
- Easy to clean with smooth surface
Cons:- Pointed tips may pose safety risks
- Slight size variations possible due to manual measurement
Best for: Catering companies, large families, or event organizers needing a high quantity of durable steak knives.
Not ideal for: Everyday home use or those seeking elegant, high-end cutlery for fine dining, as the plastic handles and bulk design lack finesse.
- Material (Blade):2CR13 stainless steel
- Handle Material:Polypropylene plastic
- Overall Length:8.78 inches
- Blade Length:4.33 inches
- Blade Thickness:0.02 inches
- Quantity:100 pieces
Our verdict“This set is a cost-effective, durable solution for large-scale serving needs but overkill for small families or everyday use.”
Alata 8-Piece Steak Knives Set, 4.7 Inch Full-Tang Serrated Sharp Knives
This 8-piece set of serrated steak knives is designed for straightforward, effortless slicing of cooked meats. The full-tang construction and high-quality stainless steel ensure durability and balance, similar to the Astercook set but with a more specialized focus. The ergonomic, triple-riveted handles provide comfort, making them suitable for daily use or special occasions. Compared with non-serrated knives, these blades require less force and maintain their sharpness longer. However, they need hand-washing to preserve the edge and are limited strictly to steak, not a versatile cutlery collection. Their straightforward design makes them a practical choice for those who want reliable steak knives without extra frills.
Pros:- Sharp serrated blades for easy slicing
- Full-tang construction for strength
- Ergonomic, triple-riveted handles for comfort
- Made from high-quality stainless steel
Cons:- Hand-washing recommended to maintain sharpness
- Limited to steak, not suitable for general kitchen use
Best for: Home users who primarily want dependable, easy-to-use steak knives for everyday meals or occasional entertaining.
Not ideal for: Those seeking a full cutlery set or versatile knives for different food prep tasks, as these are specialized for steak.
- Number of Items:8
- Blade Edge:Serrated
- Construction Type:Forged
- Blade Length:4.7 inches
- Handle:Ergonomic, triple-riveted
Our verdict“These serrated steak knives are a reliable, straightforward choice for everyday meat slicing needs, especially for those who prefer serrated blades.”
How We Picked
To determine the best value kitchen knives, I focused on affordability, performance, and build quality. I evaluated how well each set balanced cost with essential features like sharpness, handle comfort, and ease of maintenance. Durability and ease of cleaning were also key, as these influence long-term value. Ranks were assigned based on how each product offers practical performance for everyday cooking without unnecessary extras that inflate price. This approach ensures that the top picks deliver reliable quality at accessible prices, making them ideal for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on basic functionality.| value kitchen knife | Material |
|---|---|
| Amazon Basics Color-Coded Dish | — |
| COKUMA 3-Piece Kitchen Knife S | German High-Quality Steel (3CR13MOV) |
| Astercook 15-Piece Kitchen Kni | High-carbon German stainless steel |
| Astercook 13-Piece Kitchen Kni | Stainless Steel |
| CAROTE 12-Piece Knife Set with | — |
| Astercook 6-Piece Kitchen Knif | — |
| imarku Santoku Knife 7 Inch wi | Japanese high carbon stainless steel |
| Astercook 12-Piece Color-Coded | Stainless Steel |
| Lasnten 100 Pcs 8.78-Inch Stai | — |
| Alata 8-Piece Steak Knives Set | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Value Kitchen Knives
Choosing the right value kitchen knives involves understanding several key factors that impact performance and longevity. While price is important, focusing on quality and usability ensures you get the best bang for your buck. Consider how often you’ll use the knives, what tasks they need to handle, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. The following factors will help you narrow down your options to find knives that balance cost with core features.Blade Material and Edge Retention
Blade material directly impacts how long your knives stay sharp and how resistant they are to rust or corrosion. Stainless steel is common in budget options because it’s affordable and easy to maintain, but some steels retain sharpness longer than others. Consider whether you want a blade that can handle slicing and chopping for years without frequent sharpening, or if you’re okay with minor touch-ups. Cheaper steels may dull quickly, leading to more frequent replacements, so weigh this tradeoff carefully.
Handle Comfort and Ergonomics
An uncomfortable handle can make prep work tedious and even cause hand fatigue over time. Budget knives often have basic plastic or rubberized handles, which can vary in comfort and grip quality. Look for ergonomic shapes that fit your hand well, especially if you cook frequently. Handles that are too small, too bulky, or poorly balanced can diminish control and increase fatigue, reducing overall value despite a low price.
Blade Size and Versatility
Most budget sets include a range of sizes for different tasks, but not all sizes are equally useful. A 8-inch chef’s knife is versatile, while smaller paring knives excel at detail work. Consider what tasks you’ll prioritize—if you mainly do slicing and chopping, focus on a good chef’s knife. Sets with too many specialized blades might inflate the price without providing real value, so choose a configuration that aligns with your cooking style.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Ease of cleaning and maintenance can extend the lifespan of your knives and keep them performing well. Dishwasher-safe knives are convenient but may suffer from handle degradation or blade damage over time. Hand-washing and proper storage often provide better longevity, especially for blades with anti-rust coatings. Budget knives that are easy to maintain tend to offer better long-term value, even if they cost a bit more upfront.
Set vs. Individual Purchase
Buying a set can be more economical, but it’s worth considering whether all included knives are useful for your needs. Sets with a broad selection might include tools you won’t use often, reducing overall value. Conversely, buying individual knives allows you to invest in better quality for your most-used blades while skipping extras. Balancing the number of knives against quality and your actual needs helps maximize value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cheaper knives worth it for everyday use?
Cheap knives can be suitable for occasional or light use, but they often lack edge retention and may require frequent sharpening. For daily cooking, investing in a slightly higher-quality blade provides better durability, comfort, and performance. While the initial cost is higher, a well-chosen budget-friendly knife can last longer and perform better than the cheapest options, offering better overall value.
Should I prioritize a full set or buy individual knives?
Buying a set can be more economical if you need multiple knives, but it’s important to ensure the included blades meet your needs. Sets often contain extras that go unused, reducing overall value. Purchasing individual knives allows you to select high-quality models for your most-used tasks, often resulting in a better overall experience and longer lifespan for those specific blades.
Is stainless steel the best option for budget knives?
Stainless steel is the most common material for budget knives because it’s affordable, corrosion-resistant, and easy to clean. However, not all stainless steels retain sharpness equally; some dull faster than others. Look for options that specify a decent quality of stainless steel or include a coating to improve longevity. While not as durable as premium steels, stainless steel provides a good balance for everyday use at low cost.
How often should I sharpen my budget kitchen knives?
Budget knives typically require more frequent sharpening, often every few months depending on use. Using a honing steel regularly can help maintain their edge between sharpenings. If you notice slicing becoming difficult or tearing, it’s time to sharpen or replace the blade. Proper sharpening extends the useful life of budget knives and maintains their performance for daily cooking tasks.
What is the best way to store affordable knives?
Proper storage helps maintain edge sharpness and prevents damage. Using a knife block, magnetic strip, or blade guards is recommended over drawers that can nick or dull blades. For budget knives, investing in a simple storage solution that keeps blades protected and dry is key to prolonging their lifespan and ensuring safe handling.
Conclusion
For most home cooks, the Amazon Basics Color-Coded Kitchen Knife Set offers excellent value with its affordability and practical features. Those seeking a versatile, sharp, and budget-friendly option should consider the imarku Santoku Knife, which balances quality and cost effectively. For beginners, a simple set like the Astercook 15-Piece Kitchen Knife Set provides a range of tools without overwhelming. If you’re on a tight budget but want decent performance, focusing on single knives with good reviews can maximize value. Meanwhile, more experienced cooks who want durability at a modest price might prefer sets with stainless steel blades and ergonomic handles. Overall, your choice depends on how much you cook regularly and your specific needs in the kitchen.
