Design Scissors Chroma – Stainless Steel · 21.6 cm | Craighill
Kotai is a French knife brand from Lille, founded by Jérémie Plane. Inspired by a trip to Japan and his first blade purchase on the famous Kappabashi Street in Tokyo, Kotai combines the sharpness and aesthetics of Japanese blades with the robustness of Western knives. At Charles & Marie we carry 10 Kotai products.
East Meets West
Kotai knives are a deliberate hybrid: the blade geometry and sharpness profile follow Japanese models, while the material (high-grade stainless steel) and grind are optimised for Western demands of easy maintenance and robustness. The result: knives that cut with Japanese precision but are less delicate.
At Charles & Marie: Knives, Accessories & Sets
The range covers the essential knife types: the Gyuto (chef’s knife, 20 cm blade), the Santoku (multi-purpose, 18 cm), the fillet knife (20 cm), the serrated bread knife (20 cm), the Cleaver (19 cm) and the paring knife (9 cm). Each knife comes with a wooden Saya sheath and bamboo gift box. Plus: honing steel, dual-sided sharpening stone (1000/6000 grit), Chef Knife Roll-Up Bag (canvas & leather) and the Nomad Knife Set with 6 knives, honing steel and bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kotai?
Kotai is a French knife brand from Lille that combines Japanese blade precision with Western robustness. Founded by Jérémie Plane after an inspiring trip to Japan.
What is a Saya?
A Saya is a traditional Japanese wooden blade sheath. It protects the knife blade during storage and transport. Every Kotai knife comes with a matching Saya.
What’s the difference between Gyuto and Santoku?
The Gyuto (20 cm) is the Japanese counterpart to the Western chef’s knife — versatile, with a slightly curved blade for rocking. The Santoku (18 cm) is a multi-purpose knife with a wider, flatter blade, ideal for chopping vegetables, fish and meat.
Are Kotai knives good gifts?
The bamboo gift box and Saya sheath make every Kotai knife instantly gift-ready. The Nomad Knife Set is a premium gift for ambitious home cooks.
How do I care for Kotai knives?
Hand wash recommended, dry immediately after use. For maintenance sharpening, use the honing steel regularly; for thorough sharpening, the dual-sided sharpening stone (1000/6000 grit).
Kotai at Charles & Marie — French-Japanese kitchen knives with Saya & bamboo gift box. Gyuto, Santoku, sets & accessories.
