A mezzaluna is a curved blade with a handle at each end, and you rock it back and forth over food to chop it. It excels at fresh herbs, garlic, nuts and leafy greens, and some larger versions double as pizza cutters. The rocking motion is quick once you have the rhythm, and it keeps herbs from bruising the way a dull knife can.
The six options below include single blade choices, a double blade chopper and a few simple stainless models. We have not used these tools ourselves, so confirm blade size, handle material and whether a board or cover is included on the current listing before you buy. The descriptions are general and based on how each type is commonly sold.
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What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Blade count | Single blades give clean cuts; double blades chop faster but are harder to clean |
| Blade length | Longer blades handle more food per pass, while shorter ones fit small bowls |
| Handles | Two comfortable handles make the rocking motion easier |
| Blade cover | A cover keeps the blade safe in a drawer |
| Material | Stainless steel resists rust and is easy to clean |
| Board | A curved chopping bowl or board helps keep food in place |
| Storage | A guard or a drawer-friendly shape keeps a curved blade from catching other tools and keeps fingers safe |
Specs at a Glance
| Mezzaluna | Blades | Material | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Messermeister Mezzaluna | Single | Stainless steel | Check listing for the blade length |
| Zwilling Mezzaluna | Single | Stainless steel | Established German maker |
| Fox Run Mezzaluna | Single | Stainless steel | Simple, widely sold |
| HIC Mezzaluna | Single | Stainless steel | Often sold with a blade guard |
| Bellemain Mezzaluna | Single | Stainless steel | Sometimes sold with a board |
| Kuhn Rikon Mezzaluna | Single | Stainless steel | Swiss maker; check listing details |
The 6 Best Mezzaluna Knives
1. Messermeister Mezzaluna
A well-regarded herb chopper from a cutlery brand known for its precise blades. The curve is designed for a smooth rocking motion over a board.
Suits: herbs and garlic. Strengths: a precise edge and a trusted brand. Weaknesses: sizes differ, so read the listing closely. Skip it if you rarely chop herbs.
View Messermeister Mezzaluna on Amazon
2. Zwilling Mezzaluna
A mezzaluna from the long-established German maker, with a stainless blade meant for herbs, vegetables and nuts. It follows the classic two-handle design.
Suits: anyone who likes German steel. Strengths: a recognizable brand and solid feel. Weaknesses: it needs hand washing. Skip it if you want a dishwasher-safe tool.
View Zwilling Mezzaluna on Amazon
3. Fox Run Mezzaluna
A simple stainless mezzaluna that does the job without extras. It is a practical option for someone trying the style for the first time.
Suits: first-time buyers. Strengths: a basic design that is easy to use. Weaknesses: fewer extras. Skip it if you want a premium finish.
View Fox Run Mezzaluna on Amazon
4. HIC Mezzaluna
A straightforward herb chopper in stainless steel. Some versions come with a protective guard, which is handy for drawer storage.
Suits: tidy storage. Strengths: a safe place for the blade. Weaknesses: accessories vary by seller. Skip it if you want a heavy, forged tool.
5. Bellemain Mezzaluna
A stainless blade with a dual-handle design. Some listings pair the knife with a wooden bowl for chopping, so check what is included before ordering.
Suits: herb gardens and salads. Strengths: an inviting design and a possible bowl. Weaknesses: bundles vary. Skip it if you prefer to use your own board.
View Bellemain Mezzaluna on Amazon
6. Kuhn Rikon Mezzaluna
A mezzaluna from a Swiss kitchenware maker known for colorful, thoughtful tools. Confirm the exact style and size on the listing.
Suits: those who like Swiss design. Strengths: a thoughtful, tidy look. Weaknesses: limited detail in some listings. Skip it if you want the biggest blade available.
View Kuhn Rikon Mezzaluna on Amazon
Care and Setup
- Wash by hand and dry the blade right away.
- Use a board with a bit of give, such as wood or plastic.
- Store the blade in a cover or drawer organizer.
- Hone or sharpen it when it starts to bruise herbs.
- Hold both handles firmly and keep fingers clear of the edge.
- Wipe the blade from the spine outward, never along the sharp edge.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Pressing straight down instead of rocking the blade.
- Chopping on a glass or stone surface.
- Rushing the rocking motion.
- Leaving the blade wet and uncovered.
- Using it on bones or frozen food.
- Choosing a size that is too big for your board.
Mezzaluna Knife FAQ
What can I chop with a mezzaluna?
It excels at herbs, garlic, shallots, greens and nuts. A larger one can also cut pizza.
Is a mezzaluna better than a chef’s knife?
It is easier for herbs and small pieces, but a chef’s knife is more versatile.
Are double blades better?
They chop faster, but they are harder to clean and can crush delicate herbs.
How do I sharpen a mezzaluna?
Follow the maker’s advice. Many makers suggest a honing steel or a professional sharpening service.
The Short Version
For a precise edge, the Messermeister. For German steel, the Zwilling. For a simple first mezzaluna, the Fox Run. For a guard, the HIC. For a possible bowl, the Bellemain. For Swiss design, the Kuhn Rikon.