Dinner Knives
A dinner knife is used to cut and spread food and help push it onto the fork. A traditional table knife is recognizable by its blunted or rounded end, though many modern styles and lengths are available. More
Table Knives: What You Need to Know
Though dinner knife sets come in many styles, each option tends to share some common traits. Whether it be a dinner, butter, or dessert knife, most options feature a wide blade with a rounded tip and blunt edge. Most models measure between 8 and 10 inches in length and are made of 18/0, 18/8, or 18/10 stainless steel, though some economy options may feature 13/0 stainless composition. Disposable models are often made of plastic or wood and may be individually wrapped for sanitary use.
Common Questions About Dinner Knives
What is a dinner knife used for?
Unlike kitchen knives, eating knives have a thick, blunt design that typically doesn't include sharp points or edges. These utensils are useful for cutting soft foods and aren't effective for slicing chicken, pork chops, or steak. This type of knife is commonly used to butter rolls; cut soft, cooked food into bite-sized pieces; and spread jams, jellies, sauces, or soft cheeses onto bread, toast, buns, or rolls. At locations where guests frequently consume spreadable foods – along with any dine-in location place settings are provided – these knives come in handy for tasks where a fork or spoon just won't cut it.
Is a dinner knife serrated?
Some options are serrated, but most models have a smooth edge. A serrated table knife typically features small, shallow grooves and is unsharpened, meaning it's not useful for cutting hard or tough food. For slicing items such as meat or thick vegetables, a steak knife is a better option. Eating knives are more useful for cutting up soft food and scooping it onto the diner's fork in a controlled manner.