A trusty cheese grater is a kitchen essential, and for good reason: Cooking with grated cheese, rather than sliced or crumbled, ensures an even, perfectly melted coating of dairy goodness (try using shredded cheddar instead of sliced on your next grilled cheese and you’ll see what we mean).

This sleek, conical grater from award-winning German designer Richard Sapper blends form and function. When it’s not in use, display the wood-and-steel stunner on the counter—it’s culinary couture.
Alessi “Todo” Grater – $100
store.alessi.com

Rebecca Haley-Park

Rebecca Haley-Park is culture's former editor and resident stinky cheese cheerleader. A native New Englander, she holds a BFA in creative writing from University of Maine at Farmington.

Photographer Dominic Perri

Dominic Perri is a passionate food photographer splitting his time between Massachusetts and New York City. He has been professionally photographing food for almost 10 years. See more of his work at http://www.dominicperri.com/