Tomita Bladeless Grater

At first glance, this stainless steel grater from Tomita seems like a trick: Can something completely smooth to the touch actually work as a grater? The answer is a resounding yes. The Bladeless Grater’s surface is covered with raised ridges and bumps that reduce garlic cloves, ginger, turmeric and fresh wasabi to a pulp in seconds. It quickly turns Parmesan to nubby bits that melt evenly and even grinds hard nutmeg to fine dust. Plus, the Tomita cannot wear down or go dull because it has no blades—it will remain as effective as it was on day one for years.

Beyond its performance, the Tomita grater couldn’t be easier to clean. Its bladeless design is inspired by oroshi, the traditional “sharkskin” graters sushi chefs use to grate fresh wasabi root. While oroshi are incredibly delicate and require meticulous maintenance, the Tomita is made from tough, dishwasher-safe stainless steel. Rasp-style graters tend to get fibrous bits stuck in their teeth; not so with the Tomita. With nowhere for leftover pulp to hide, it rinses completely clean. Finally, its flat, low-profile design fits in any drawer—and since it’s smooth to the touch, you don’t have to worry about nicking a finger when reaching for it.