Ina Garten, cookbook author and celebrity chef, has said that knives are the most important kitchen tool, and German Wüsthof Classic knives are her top choice.
Wüsthof blades are forged from a single, very durable piece of steel and sharpened with laser-precision, so the blade can last a lifetime if taken care of properly.
There are two length options: a 6-inch for $135 and an 8-inch for $170. Be sure to store it upside down in the knife block as Garten does to extend its life span.