Sharper Than New

I had seen a story about Krystina in the Sarasota Market newsletter. I had a number of old knives that were very dull, and an expensive mandoline that was so dull it wouldn’t cut anymore. We went to see Krystina at the market on a Saturday morning. Despite being busy, she took the time to evaluate all the knives we had brought and evaluate whether they were worth getting sharpened. One knife she said wasn’t worth sharpening and she explained why. She obviously knew her knives and was very patient answering all of our questions and explaining what she would do very thoroughly. We agreed on a price — a very reasonable price — and a date to meet at her shop. True to her word, when I called on the specified day, she told me everything was ready for me to pick up. She was also very accommodating on meeting us after I got out of work. It was such a thrill to start cooking again — she did an incredible, meticulous job — I couldn’t believe how effortless it was to cut with precision sharpened knives! The pride in craftsmanship and knowledge of her trade really shows through and is reflected in the high quality of work she does. Anytime I need knives or tools sharpened, I will always take them to Krystina!

So grateful to find a convenient, quick way to get my cleavers and kitchen knives in tiptop shape. Christina, owner of Sharper Than New, has been honing knives for chefs, restaurants and home cooks for many years. I had let my collection go way downhill and was happy to find she had improved their cutting quality by 100 per cent. Her prices are fair and the turnaround was just a couple of days (important for those of us who cook every day). She is knowledgeable and will honestly tell you whether a knife is worth sharpening or should be put in a back drawer for emergencies. Leave a message when you call. Most of her sharpening equipment is in the back (under an oak tree).