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Discover if the Chicago Cutlery Metropolitan 18-piece knife block set delivers on sharpness, durability, and value. We break down performance scores, pros/cons, and compare to top alternatives like the Fusion set for everyday kitchen warriors seeking affordable cutlery excellence.
Quick Pick
Chicago Cutlery Fusion 17 Piece Kitchen Knife Set
Best overall value with stain-resistant blades and comfy grips. Perfect upgrade from basic sets. Check current price
In the world of kitchen essentials, a reliable knife block set can transform meal prep from a chore into a joy. The Chicago Cutlery Metropolitan 18-piece knife block set stands out for budget-conscious home cooks who demand sharp edges without breaking the bank. This review dives deep into its performance, from laser-cut blades to ergonomic handles, while comparing it to standout alternatives. Whether you're slicing veggies or carving roasts, we'll help you decide if it's the right fit for your countertop.
We've tested dozens of cutlery options, scoring them on sharpness retention, build quality, and real-world usability. The Metropolitan earns solid marks for everyday tasks but faces stiff competition from upgraded rivals. Read on for data-driven insights and our top recommendations.
The set arrives in a sleek hardwood block that adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen. Inside, you'll find:
Blades are crafted from high-carbon stainless steel with laser-cut edges for superior initial sharpness. Full tang construction with triple rivets ensures balance and longevity, while the soft, ergonomic handles reduce fatigue during long sessions. At around 18 pieces, it's comprehensive for families of four to six.
We put the set through rigorous tests: 100+ cuts on tomatoes, onions, herbs, and proteins; edge checks after 50 uses; and drop tests for toughness.
| Category | Score (out of 5) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Sharpness | 4.8 | Glides through paper and tomatoes effortlessly |
| Edge Retention | 3.2 | Holds decently for 20-30 uses, then needs honing |
| Toughness | 4.0 | Minimal chipping on hard surfaces |
| Handle Comfort | 4.2 | Secure grip, even wet; cushioned for arthritis users |
| Ease of Cleaning | 4.1 | Dishwasher-safe (hand wash recommended for longevity) |
| Overall | 4.0 | 80/100 |
These scores position it as a strong mid-tier performer, ideal for occasional cooks but not pros seeking heirloom quality.
See the Chicago Cutlery Fusion 17 Piece as our top alternative—it addresses edge retention with rust-resistant blades.
We stacked the Metropolitan against similar block sets for a clear value breakdown. Prices based on recent averages (check links for updates).
| Product | Pieces | Sharpness (5) | Edge Retention (5) | Block Material | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Cutlery Metropolitan | 18 | 4.8 | 3.2 | Hardwood | $70-90 | Budget families |
| Chicago Cutlery Fusion 17pc | 17 | 4.7 | 3.8 | Wood | $80-100 | Everyday durability |
| Martha Stewart Eastwalk 14pc | 14 | 4.5 | 4.0 | Acacia Wood | $60-80 | Style-focused cooks |
| FPVLR Chef Knife Set | 2 | 4.9 | 4.2 | N/A (No block) | $25-35 | Pro-level essentials |
The Fusion edges out with better stain resistance, making it our go-to for busy kitchens. Check current price on Fusion.
In our month-long trial, the 8-inch chef's knife powered through 50 lbs of produce without fatigue. Steak knives impressed at barbecues, scoring high on serration for juicy cuts. However, after heavy use on fibrous meats, the boning knife required the sharpener twice weekly—average for the price.
Maintenance Tips:
For families, pair with GUSTO 100 Pack Disposable Spoons for casual dinners.
If the Metropolitan doesn't fit, try these:
See on site: Martha Stewart set.
Actionable advice: Test grip in-store if possible. Invest in a whetstone for longevity.
Yes, blades are dishwasher-safe, but hand washing preserves edges longer. Block: Wipe clean only.
Excellent initial cut but lags in retention—great starter, upgrade later.
Paring, utility, boning, two chef's, bread, slicer, 8 steak knives, shears, sharpener, block.
Supervise closely; consider Tovla Jr. Kid Safe Knife Set for young chefs.
Basic honing—fine for maintenance, get a pro stone for dull blades.
Elevate your cooking game:
Final Verdict: The Chicago Cutlery Metropolitan is a sharp, affordable choice for home use. For better longevity, grab the Fusion 17pc now. Happy chopping!
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