Amazon buyers: Be careful, there's some unscrupulous sellers on Amazon advertising this and shipping some cheap imitation. The latest reviews are full of complaints.
Thank you for the advise, I love a bargain and wood handles . Today I ordered a few Victorinox Spatulas for my daughters and they were on sale, oh lucky us !
You nailed it! we pick the right pan the right size and then we beat it up with a bad spatula...I love my fish spatula, I use it on my non-stick pans with care because it just works.
Every time I go into a thrift store I head for the cooking tools section. The BEST spatulas are the older ones made of stainless spring steel ~3x4.5", skinny handles with plastic grips. I have three now, and I've even repaired the welds on one to keep it as long as possible. I have a fish spatula, but it's cheap and the handle collects water when washing, and comes out later when using it - gross. Thanks for the great review!
Even more expensive but to me more effective than the whustof , is the global knives GS27 fish spatula , it has the advantage over the whustof because it's inox handle doesn't burn on a hot skillet , yes you don't like the metal handles in that comparison , but the global textured inbox handle doesn't slip even with wet hands . Absolute perfect design . Basically it's a life long item to buy .... indestructible !
Why are the traditional spatulas so incredibly thick these days? I love the old ones that are thin and maneuverable (even moreso than fish spatulas), but I have to look for them at tag sales or antique stores. They should really see a renaissance!
I like the old vintage Ekco and Flint spatulas with the riveted handles. Made back in the 1960's. Unfortunately, everybody else likes them too. So they go for a small fortune on Ebay.
I initially was going to purchase the runner-up MiU France spatula, which is actually a Chinese company, but I then found the same spatula rebranded under another brand name; a common business practice in China. I read through many reviews of the MiU and after finding out that the handle was reportedly hollow and prone to melting if left to touch a hot skillet, I decided to look elsewhere. After quite a lot more research on Amazon, I found a similar looking spatula to the Wüsthof. Not that it's equal to the german-made spatula but at just under $14 and a 4.5 star rating for a stainless steel fish turner spatula from the catalog of Ateco, an american company in NY, I decided to give it a try. The spatula, Ateco's #1364, is also made in China but to Ateco's specifications. It has a very comfortable solid plastic handle with a great sized slanted head design. After three months of use, I couldn't be happier with the purchase and I'm laughing all the way to the bank. You can find it at amzn.com/B004M5H6R4
Now I would call those turners, because they are used for turning stuff over in a frying pan. A spatula is a parallel sided very flexible affair used in cake decorating. But then I'm English. A good turner has a straight end so it fits the flat bottom of the pan and will scrape stuff off it.
As my cooking set was Revere Ware, All Stainless, there were some perks included: 2 looking spoons, 1 slotted, 1 not. 1 lovely soup ladle, And 1 dandy pancake Turner and one shorter Turner... ALL stainless steel.. No need to go searching for my basic tools. Pampered Chef is a fine retailer, as well.
5:03 A left handed person using a tool designed for right hand users, good luck with that. It's funny that she didn't even bothered to talk about any downside/ inconvenience like this one for the top pick. In addition, fish spatula is so in favour to certain ways of cooking that it loses versatility. I can't imagine how much food will stuck in the gaps when using it to make stir fries.
I have left Lisa the question of where does a lefty find left-handed utensils and I mean in the store(s) and not online. Hoping she can give me a helpful answer.
In my view it is much better with a flat front edge, compared to a curved one. This is because only a flat edge will have contact with the pan along its width. I was surprised you didn’t mention this, considering that all the spatulas you liked had this property.
Hot Vodka Same with their knives. I had to use a chefs knife to cut cookie dough in school. It hurt because the spine dug into my hand. Not good knife.
Went down this road to replace my one from the eighties that handle was dying. Lee Valley is the way to go for this one if you want a “conventional spatula” with the flexibility, durability, and grip. Only complaint is the traditional one runs a bit small.
i got 2 generic wood handle fish spatula. one is standard size while the other is large. the fish spatulas are way more versatile for everything both delicate and tough. the metal is thick but still fairly flexible.
I have two favorite spatulas, one's a fish turner, the other is a grill spatula that I use on my cast iron. Fish turner for delicate items like fish and eggs, the grill spatula is what I usually use for steaks and burgers. Fish turners are great, but they're not that great for pressing meat into a hot surface like the firm spatulas, but I'd agree that fish turners are generally more usable than the regular spatulas.
Two of the most popular metal spatulas come in a set from IKEA that I didn't see tested here. Stainless, slotted and solid. Great value w 2 ladels, 1 long steak prong, etc.
You missed one excellent spatula, the Cutco spatula. Thinner than the traditional shapes you reviewed but still beefy enough to handle burgers etc. The handle is standard Cutco material, dishwasher safe and comfortable. The handle also has a curve that moves your hand closer to, and higher up from the pan. Possibly the best spatula I've ever used.
When Lisa McManus said “Maybe I’m extra fussy. OK, I am.” I knew I had a new TH-cam crush! Toss in the delightfully awful pun when announcing the winners and I knew what I was going to watch as many of her videos as I could find until it was time to make dinner!
I have four different spatulas for four different types of food. Which cover every single category from Sugar cookies to fish and heavy burgers/steaks. No one is allowed to touch my fish spatula, it was quite pricey because, I purchased it from Williams Sonoma. I had to lay down the law because, somebody took my very expensive Soup Ladle and used it as a hammer!
It took me ages to find it but I have a really great spatula, its a fish spatula style, its metal but the outer edge has a thin silicone edge which means I can use it in non-stick cookwear, mine is flat though.
I got my Dash of That fish spatula from Kroger at half off price , I think it cost $3. Its handle is made of bamboo. The tip edge is sharpened slitly, tilting up just a little bit. It's been working great. I'm not spending that much money on a fish spatula. It's not like the chef's knife which you need extra technology to figure out the formula for the steel.
Don't forget, the best one is the one that works well and fits YOUR hand. Mercer Hell's Handle is my #1 pick. My beefy hands love that indestructible tool.
I'm so glad to see other people love and use their fish spatulas for every day use. I have more than 10 spatulas in my drawer, but only use my OXO fish spatula for EVERYTHING!!! (No, it's not the best one, but it works for me.) I thought I was the only one who did that. I just found this channel and found my people. 😂
The best rated doesn't mean it's the best for any particular person. How you hold and use things affects a lot. I'm thinking about getting the Mercer because the only real complaint it had was the handle is too thick. And I have long thin fingers, and a touch of arthritis. Which makes wrapping my hands around skinny handles a bit tiring, the opposite of what they found in testing, where they found that bigger handles made holding it a bit tiring, even for those with slightly larger hands. So if it works well for you, enjoy it.
I feel like this is a bogus test. I should be clear that I think Lisa McManus has good intentions and is no fool in the kitchen. However, to me it seems like when America’s Test Kitchen made this video they didn’t objectively think, “hey let’s find the best spatula.” Instead they started with the premise, “isn’t it dumb how no one uses fish spatulas more often?” and proceeded to work backwards from their favorite two. While I agree with the fish spatula premise on the grounds that it is more versatile than a conventional spatula I don’t think they gave conventional spatulas a fair shake. They seem to have picked the worst ones for the test in order to drive their point home about the specialist being superior to conventional spatulas. More importantly I feel that the two fish spats they preferred are not actually superior. I judge this on the grounds of handle meltability, which I considered to be more important than handle thinness when it comes to utility of fish spats. I don’t by the argument that a thinner handle necessarily makes the fish spatula easier to maneuver. That is just a matter of practice and comfortability with the fish spat that you have. Were I the judge, I would’ve picked the Hell’s Handle fish spat (which full disclosure, I own. It’s made by Mercer and it’s def under $20...has a handle that is heat resistant to something like 550 degrees F), followed by the fish spat with the metal handle. Neither handle will melt, and you don’t need to waste a bunch of fish fillets or ground beef for “pub style burgers” (whatever the fuck THAT is) in order to “test” their functionality. Again, I admire Lisa McManus and Cook’s Illustrated I just think this particular review is dumb.
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Though I am a trained chef I have not thought of those differences. I wile definitely think about this "lesson" for my home kitchen!
I have a metal fish spatula with a slightly angled leading edge I picked up for $5.95 (by New Star Foodservice). Being left-handed, it's a wee bit tricky at times but I've adapted and it has performed flawlessly. I am always wanting a non-stick version and was hoping Lisa would review those as well. Maybe next time!
I have been using the “Pioneer Woman” fish spatula from Walmart for over a year now. I like the solid construction and wooden handle with brass rivets and at way under $10, it’s a bargain.
Wood spatula is the best in my opinion. I never have to worry scratch my nice pan while scraping the fond (brown bits on the bottom when cooking) off to develop flavors. You just need one of each nice metal, wood, and silicone spatulas. Then you are set for almost anything.
Very nice video! thank you. Am I right that these shouldn't be used on a non-stick skillet? Can you do a review on what silicone spatula is best for non-stick skillets?
Chinese cook here: we use traditional spatulas on woks...since they are so big and you fry way too much food to be flipped by a small spatula...the handle has to be long to reach the bottom center of the wok! I could never imagine cooking with one of those huge spatulas on a small stove pan though! But then again I use chopsticks so....
She's just the right amount of nerdy and cute (Velma from Scooby doo). Now, I know that may not be a requirement but I think the best women are ATK hosts with Bridget as my fave!
The recommended MIU Metal Spatula has a hollow plastic handle. It can get melt if you don't place it away from the heat. That is what happens to my MIU spatula. Don't know how it gets an NSF certification.
Not sure what you think an NSF certification means, but the fact that plastic melts when in contact with hot metal is pretty irrelevant to getting the certification. Now, if you could place the spatula on the pan and it melted so badly that plastic ran down into the pan with the food in short order, then it would probably not be certified.
Cook's Illustrated tested grill spatulas for their June 2014 issue, and subscribers to the Web site can look up all the tests both current and past. I subscribe to the magazine as well as all the Web subdivisions: Cooks Illustrated, Cooks Country, and America's Test Kitchen. I think it's a bargain. If you want to see the grill spatula test, see: www.cooksillustrated.com/equipment_reviews/1521-grill-spatulas
SeikiBrian , thank you! I have an ATK account but can not access the link you provided with that login 🤷♀️. Might you remember what spatula they found best?
Yeah, an ATK-only subscription wouldn't work on the Cook's Illustrated site. The winning grill spatula was the Weber Original Stainless Steel Spatula, with the OXO Good Grips BBQ Turner coming in second. The Weber is only $4.00 more than the OXO, at about $15.00.
Odd that Lisa didn't test the OXO 1130900 Good Grips Fish Turner because they usually include an OXO product and they often 'win'. It's my favorite AND it costs less than the MIU. Btw, as so often happens when ATK recommends a product, the price magically increases; the MIU is now US$23.
I noticed the fish spatulas are not straight on the end, but slanted a certain direction. It looks like it would be easier for right-handed folks. As a leftie, I can see how this might make it less comfortable for me. Maybe there are some left-handed ones available as I am definitely convinced these are the best!
Victorinox and Wusthorf spatulas might as well be die punched out of the same sheet roll of stainless steel on the very same punch die. The only difference is the Wusthorf has 3 extra manufacturing steps to finish it: Edge bevelling, slurring polishing and hand polishing at the buffing wheel.
yay, your back. can you do more of these reviews. they are very informative. can you review other household item such as storage sacks for onion/potato, miscellaneous tools of kitchen, or anything unique that may be an addition to the kitchen
Is the MIU spatula made in France, I got one, China, handle rusted at edge where it meets support, snapped off in less then a year. I miss brick mortar stores, I would pay the premium knowing it’s the real product over Amazon. Does ATK do long term testing? I assume they put more miles on an item.. .
I have a very old small spatula I use for getting into tight spots to flip or release from a pan, It has a distal taper and is very flexible, but rigid enough not to ever buckle like the very flexible ones of today that are just a piece of thin sheet metal welded to the handle. I am forever looking for it's equal at a larger or same variety. Naturally, a fish spatula is great, but if anyone knows of one that is better, please tell. Does anyone have a DUE BUOI FLEXIBLE Narrow Spatula? I wonder if it's any good.
Now, it's February of 2020 and the best buy, MIU France Flexible Slotted Fish Turner, is $22 on Amazon. Still better than $50+ for the Wusthof (for those of us on a budget). Thanks, ATK!
Ah, finally, this video has better, clearer sound than almost all of them. It's still not that loud though, my computer's volume is set full blast and this video came out sounding normal rather than blasting me out of my chair. If I set my volume to slightly less than half way up, the video is way too quiet to hear well. and no, I'm not deaf. Other videos from other channels don't have to be played at full volume to be heard at all.
Would love to see reviews on kitchen shears, mason jars, garlic press and peelers. Potato especially. Love the recommendations. I use so many of them everyday...victorinox knife, oxo cutting board, etc.
As much as I love the IDEA of fish spatulas/ turners, I'm too nervous about scratching the seasoning on my cast iron. OXO has a silicone pancake spatula that works great, although it doesn't have the bells and whistles of a fish turner.
I have used only metal with my cast-iron for over 40 years and they are fine. I search for metal utensils to avoid plastic endocrine disruptures in all cooking. Good video.
My moms cast iron has only seen metal spatulas, steel wool, and dish soap for 40+ years and I promise you, it's the smoothest cast iron you'll ever see. No issues with seasoning. Cast iron lasts a century for a reason, there's no need to baby it
I absolutely LOVE your reviews, but one that seems to be left out of this review is a less expensive fish turner made by Oxo. I’ve been using one for about a year and absolutely love it. And it’s not expensive m
Amazon has a Lamsom left handed turner. I bought the black handle but it comes in wooden as well which I kind of wish I’d bought. I love it. Angle is on the right side to turn things properly and as a lefty you appreciate how it works.
Always question I think of, why are both items called a spatula since one for scraping the inside of a bowl the so much different as a giant flat one for flipping pancakes? I mean there is a smaller difference between a spoon and a ladle they have different names? Cooking terminology is so confusing sometimes.
Stonedune the correct name for the steel type spatula is a ‘fish slice’ Americans just don’t call it that because they like to be different to everyone else 😂
@@bendavies1758 Incorrect. The long spatula is called a "fish turner". And both the fish turner and fish slice are types of spatulas. So calling them a spatula isn't even remotely wrong. Just less specific. Just like calling both a 4 door Toyota sedan and a Ferrari cars isn't wrong, but they aren't the exact same thing.
Probably has something to do with the fact that spatula is a very old word (1500's) related to the word Spade, and simply means a handle with a flat end on it. So as you can see, they are both spatulas. Which is why we have subcategories, and context.
Oh, and a ladle is *literally* a spoon with a long handle and cup shaped bowl. why people decide to use the category name for some multiple items, and not for others is beyond me, but it's what people do.
@@lordgarion514 actually in British English every metal 'spatula' is a fish slice, no matter the length or shape. Google it. A spatula here would be for mixing or scraping food out of something, such as the silicone or wooden kind. These do not have any holes in them, whereas a fish slice does have holes in it. Also we have such a thing as palette knives, which Americans also label as 'spatula'. We call it a fish slice to simply differentiate between the objects.
How hard might it be to bend the end of the second place spatula so it will have the same angle as the first place one? Is that the only difference between the two spatulas?
I would say easy to bend but not recommended. It'll break very quickly. Unless you have a touch and safety gear to heat it up until its red than bend it and seal it. Just bending wound fracture the metal. It also looks like that one got the most beating when they heated the handles, but the winner (if the one next to it was the winner) didnt have as deep and as many marks.
I just can't bring myself to like fish turners. I've had a Dexter Russell turner with a wood handle and 4-inch blade for about 10 years and it works with ease on everything. If I could find it on Amazon, I'd share the info.
A very much enjoy and appreciate the clips from America’s Test Kitchen. Always a good production! I did order the 2nd choice, the MIU 3 x 11 spatula. It was a long time coming as it was apparently out of stock, but it arrived a few days back. However, I’m disappointed with this item. I should have guessed it was made in China, a source I’m doing my best to avoid for SO many reasons. Need I elaborate? I’m Canadian and two of my countryman are languishing in a Chinese prison on trumped up charges over this Huawei issue. I’m sorry I did not buy the Wusthof. Paying more really is not such a hardship. And that country of origin respects human rights. Rethink price!!!
Don't kid yourself. A lot of Wustoff is MADE IN CHINA. They pay nothing, and you pay a lot so their profit margins are huge. They don't care for human rights as long as they funnel your money into their bank. Buy the cheapest and best regardless of origins. I'm sorry for the Canadians in jail in China. I hope they got out. Nasty Commie bureaucrats and repressive regime same as Russia.
Your best buy winner link goes to the offset version of the spatula, which I find awkward to use. Can you please provide a link to the one shown in your video?
My all over favourite spatula is the OXO Good Grips fish spatula. It's less than $20.00 and I use it exclusively. I've noticed you aren't testing as many OXO utensils. Any reason why?
@@sisterinSC That's awful! Was it older? What size was it? Good thing they aren't too expensive! Or will you not replace it? Mine's around a year or two old. I actually have 2. The large one and a smaller one. I really like that they're so flexible.
@@sisterinSC I thought they might. OXO seems to be a good company. I'm glad they replaced it. I own a number of their products. But let me warn you~the 🥑 avocado tool they sell doesn't work at all well! I gave mine away. 😂 Hope you're well and stay safe. It isn't over yet (are you as sick of this virus as I am? But we're still fighting it. Retired nurse here, ☺ I can't help but say stay safe)
2:18 Who in their right mind use a long handle conventional spatula in such a tiny frying pan? Those spatulas are made for very large (12"+) woks and deep frying pans with curved bottom.
Hey ATK, can you take the the cheaper MIU Spatula and then bend it a little more to try and make it more like the Wusthof? I'm also wondering a Lefty can just bend the metal the other way to make a left-handed spatula. I'm sure the metal integrity will be compromised...but maybe not too much? These Equipment Reviews are the BEST, thank you!
The runner-up’s front edge could probably be bent slightly, if that would help its usability, though w/ its shorter handle, I don’t know if it would remain ergonomic w/ the modification.
Amazon buyers: Be careful, there's some unscrupulous sellers on Amazon advertising this and shipping some cheap imitation. The latest reviews are full of complaints.
A few months ago i found the winning Spatula at goodwill for $1.99 after watching this video now i know why i like it so much.
Yeah. $1.99
That's an awesome find! : )
Wow!!! What a bargain. That's fantastic.
yeah / I would be embarrassed to by a $50 german spatula unless there were no alternatives. $1.99 for a good tool is something to be proud of.
Me too!! Lol
the Victorinox Spatula has a wood handled version which is MUCH MUCH cheaper for some reason, I got that one and I love it
Thank you for the advise, I love a bargain and wood handles . Today I ordered a few Victorinox Spatulas for my daughters and they were on sale, oh lucky us !
This is fantastic. As a person who likes to buy the right product once, and keep it, rather than waste, this is very useful. Thank you.
these review + comparison vids are basically my favorite thing about atk.
You nailed it! we pick the right pan the right size and then we beat it up with a bad spatula...I love my fish spatula, I use it on my non-stick pans with care because it just works.
Every time I go into a thrift store I head for the cooking tools section. The BEST spatulas are the older ones made of stainless spring steel ~3x4.5", skinny handles with plastic grips. I have three now, and I've even repaired the welds on one to keep it as long as possible.
I have a fish spatula, but it's cheap and the handle collects water when washing, and comes out later when using it - gross. Thanks for the great review!
I agree. The atk really love their ludicrously pricy gear. If you pay more than two bucks, you got the wrong one.
Even more expensive but to me more effective than the whustof , is the global knives GS27 fish spatula , it has the advantage over the whustof because it's inox handle doesn't burn on a hot skillet , yes you don't like the metal handles in that comparison , but the global textured inbox handle doesn't slip even with wet hands . Absolute perfect design . Basically it's a life long item to buy .... indestructible !
Me watching a spatula review at night is by far the deepest impact the coronavirus had on my life. And I'm on lockdown since the beginning of March.
i hear you. hang in there!
Ditto! At almost 75 yrs old and on self isolation, ATK tool reviews are superlative watching. Much better than Law &Order reruns.
I go in and out of the house all the time with almost no caution or care for the virus and never had any symptoms. God protects the faithful 🙏
@@papasfritas6071 You're lack of empathy is sad.
@@Matt-fl8uy Empathy? What does that have to do with anything he said 2 years after OP?
I watch these now Saturday mornings
The fish type spatulas are also great for cutting in the pan. The slightly angled top and beveled edge is great to size up any food
Wow! Lisa is so organised, logical and articulate in these reviews. This might sound nerdy, but that was actually a really interesting video.
Why are the traditional spatulas so incredibly thick these days? I love the old ones that are thin and maneuverable (even moreso than fish spatulas), but I have to look for them at tag sales or antique stores. They should really see a renaissance!
easy to make. No precision necessary.
They're called pancake turners now ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ . Check out the Good Cook Pancake Turner, that's what I use.
I bought the All Clad fish turner and its very thin and very flexible. Too much! A bit more stiffness is needed.
I definitely agree with your choice for #1. I don't own a fish spatula. But have used them. They are absolutely wonderful to cook with. ♥️👍
I like the old vintage Ekco and Flint spatulas with the riveted handles. Made back in the 1960's. Unfortunately, everybody else likes them too. So they go for a small fortune on Ebay.
The BEST spatulas hands down! They are getting so hard to find now. Nothing comes close
I initially was going to purchase the runner-up MiU France spatula, which is actually a Chinese company, but I then found the same spatula rebranded under another brand name; a common business practice in China. I read through many reviews of the MiU and after finding out that the handle was reportedly hollow and prone to melting if left to touch a hot skillet, I decided to look elsewhere.
After quite a lot more research on Amazon, I found a similar looking spatula to the Wüsthof. Not that it's equal to the german-made spatula but at just under $14 and a 4.5 star rating for a stainless steel fish turner spatula from the catalog of Ateco, an american company in NY, I decided to give it a try. The spatula, Ateco's #1364, is also made in China but to Ateco's specifications. It has a very comfortable solid plastic handle with a great sized slanted head design. After three months of use, I couldn't be happier with the purchase and I'm laughing all the way to the bank. You can find it at amzn.com/B004M5H6R4
Now I would call those turners, because they are used for turning stuff over in a frying pan. A spatula is a parallel sided very flexible affair used in cake decorating. But then I'm English.
A good turner has a straight end so it fits the flat bottom of the pan and will scrape stuff off it.
I have always used a fish spatula as my regular spatula and love it for all of the same reasons.
Thank you for sharing✌💛☺
Lisa is the ultimate presenter for any review. Lady you are the BEST👍👍👍👍
As my cooking set was Revere Ware, All Stainless, there were some perks included:
2 looking spoons, 1 slotted, 1 not.
1 lovely soup ladle,
And 1 dandy pancake Turner and one shorter Turner... ALL stainless steel..
No need to go searching for my basic tools.
Pampered Chef is a fine retailer, as well.
Welcome back, Lisa! We missed your videos!
5:03 A left handed person using a tool designed for right hand users, good luck with that. It's funny that she didn't even bothered to talk about any downside/ inconvenience like this one for the top pick. In addition, fish spatula is so in favour to certain ways of cooking that it loses versatility. I can't imagine how much food will stuck in the gaps when using it to make stir fries.
I have left Lisa the question of where does a lefty find left-handed utensils and I mean in the store(s) and not online. Hoping she can give me a helpful answer.
Wow, I have been using the wrong spatula all these years. Another greatly appreciated product review.
In my view it is much better with a flat front edge, compared to a curved one. This is because only a flat edge will have contact with the pan along its width. I was surprised you didn’t mention this, considering that all the spatulas you liked had this property.
The equipment reviews is the only reason I'm subbed to this channel.
I'm surprised an OXO didn't top the list. ATK usually loves their OXO.
I'm a big OXO Good Grips fan, but I looked at the OXO spatulas at a store and said "Nope. Not going to cut it."
Yeah Oxo spatulas suck for some reason
I use my OXO fish spatula every day and love it! It doesn't have the best curved edge, but it has worked wonderfully for me for years.
Matthew Waterhouse the oxo one was the really flimsy one.
Hot Vodka
Same with their knives. I had to use a chefs knife to cut cookie dough in school. It hurt because the spine dug into my hand. Not good knife.
Went down this road to replace my one from the eighties that handle was dying. Lee Valley is the way to go for this one if you want a “conventional spatula” with the flexibility, durability, and grip. Only complaint is the traditional one runs a bit small.
I’m so glad I found your channel. Thanks for all you do!
My fish spatula is vintage and is my favorite stir fry tool
i got 2 generic wood handle fish spatula. one is standard size while the other is large. the fish spatulas are way more versatile for everything both delicate and tough. the metal is thick but still fairly flexible.
I have two favorite spatulas, one's a fish turner, the other is a grill spatula that I use on my cast iron. Fish turner for delicate items like fish and eggs, the grill spatula is what I usually use for steaks and burgers. Fish turners are great, but they're not that great for pressing meat into a hot surface like the firm spatulas, but I'd agree that fish turners are generally more usable than the regular spatulas.
I love Lisa's reviews, she's just awesome!
Lisa is the best on ATC
Two of the most popular metal spatulas come in a set from IKEA that I didn't see tested here. Stainless, slotted and solid. Great value w 2 ladels, 1 long steak prong, etc.
You can bend steel spatulas to the angles you prefer. This works on the handle angle and the tip swoop.
Updated silicone spatulas next??
You missed one excellent spatula, the Cutco spatula. Thinner than the traditional shapes you reviewed but still beefy enough to handle burgers etc. The handle is standard Cutco material, dishwasher safe and comfortable. The handle also has a curve that moves your hand closer to, and higher up from the pan. Possibly the best spatula I've ever used.
When Lisa McManus said “Maybe I’m extra fussy. OK, I am.” I knew I had a new TH-cam crush! Toss in the delightfully awful pun when announcing the winners and I knew what I was going to watch as many of her videos as I could find until it was time to make dinner!
I have four different spatulas for four different types of food. Which cover every single category from Sugar cookies to fish and heavy burgers/steaks. No one is allowed to touch my fish spatula, it was quite pricey because, I purchased it from Williams Sonoma. I had to lay down the law because, somebody took my very expensive Soup Ladle and used it as a hammer!
Yeah Lisa! Thanks for the review! Very thoughtful!
It took me ages to find it but I have a really great spatula, its a fish spatula style, its metal but the outer edge has a thin silicone edge which means I can use it in non-stick cookwear, mine is flat though.
I fell in love with Mercer hell handle as a kitchen manager and now the fish spatula and griddle spatula are my favorite
I got my Dash of That fish spatula from Kroger at half off price , I think it cost $3. Its handle is made of bamboo. The tip edge is sharpened slitly, tilting up just a little bit. It's been working great. I'm not spending that much money on a fish spatula. It's not like the chef's knife which you need extra technology to figure out the formula for the steel.
Don't forget, the best one is the one that works well and fits YOUR hand. Mercer Hell's Handle is my #1 pick. My beefy hands love that indestructible tool.
I'm so glad to see other people love and use their fish spatulas for every day use. I have more than 10 spatulas in my drawer, but only use my OXO fish spatula for EVERYTHING!!! (No, it's not the best one, but it works for me.) I thought I was the only one who did that. I just found this channel and found my people. 😂
The best rated doesn't mean it's the best for any particular person.
How you hold and use things affects a lot. I'm thinking about getting the Mercer because the only real complaint it had was the handle is too thick. And I have long thin fingers, and a touch of arthritis. Which makes wrapping my hands around skinny handles a bit tiring, the opposite of what they found in testing, where they found that bigger handles made holding it a bit tiring, even for those with slightly larger hands.
So if it works well for you, enjoy it.
My oxo broke in half this morning. That is why I am here looking for a new one.
Please test:
1) Countertop glass storage jars
2) Pot holders
3) Best wooden utensil set
4) Honing steels
Yes pot holders! Also plastic or silicone turners for non stick pans
Thanks. I never heard of a fish spatula until this video. It was a great tutorial.
Excellent video. Detailed but still straight to the point.
I feel like this is a bogus test. I should be clear that I think Lisa McManus has good intentions and is no fool in the kitchen. However, to me it seems like when America’s Test Kitchen made this video they didn’t objectively think, “hey let’s find the best spatula.” Instead they started with the premise, “isn’t it dumb how no one uses fish spatulas more often?” and proceeded to work backwards from their favorite two. While I agree with the fish spatula premise on the grounds that it is more versatile than a conventional spatula I don’t think they gave conventional spatulas a fair shake. They seem to have picked the worst ones for the test in order to drive their point home about the specialist being superior to conventional spatulas. More importantly I feel that the two fish spats they preferred are not actually superior. I judge this on the grounds of handle meltability, which I considered to be more important than handle thinness when it comes to utility of fish spats. I don’t by the argument that a thinner handle necessarily makes the fish spatula easier to maneuver. That is just a matter of practice and comfortability with the fish spat that you have. Were I the judge, I would’ve picked the Hell’s Handle fish spat (which full disclosure, I own. It’s made by Mercer and it’s def under $20...has a handle that is heat resistant to something like 550 degrees F), followed by the fish spat with the metal handle. Neither handle will melt, and you don’t need to waste a bunch of fish fillets or ground beef for “pub style burgers” (whatever the fuck THAT is) in order to “test” their functionality. Again, I admire Lisa McManus and Cook’s Illustrated I just think this particular review is dumb.
Though I am a trained chef I have not thought of those differences. I wile definitely think about this "lesson" for my home kitchen!
I love watching Lisa’s videos!
I have a metal fish spatula with a slightly angled leading edge I picked up for $5.95 (by New Star Foodservice). Being left-handed, it's a wee bit tricky at times but I've adapted and it has performed flawlessly. I am always wanting a non-stick version and was hoping Lisa would review those as well. Maybe next time!
I have been using the “Pioneer Woman” fish spatula from Walmart for over a year now. I like the solid construction and wooden handle with brass rivets and at way under $10, it’s a bargain.
I picked one up for $1 at clearance
The cheaper one could be easily bent to mimic the style of the expensive one, no problem.
oh my god I just check this channel about a week or two ago for a spatula video I’ve been looking for a good one
thank you! what would b a good option for non stick?
Wood spatula is the best in my opinion. I never have to worry scratch my nice pan while scraping the fond (brown bits on the bottom when cooking) off to develop flavors. You just need one of each nice metal, wood, and silicone spatulas. Then you are set for almost anything.
Did you test the Pampered Chef fish spatula? It would be nice to know which ones you did test
Very nice video! thank you. Am I right that these shouldn't be used on a non-stick skillet? Can you do a review on what silicone spatula is best for non-stick skillets?
Chinese cook here: we use traditional spatulas on woks...since they are so big and you fry way too much food to be flipped by a small spatula...the handle has to be long to reach the bottom center of the wok!
I could never imagine cooking with one of those huge spatulas on a small stove pan though! But then again I use chopsticks so....
i was hoping for lisa to show up again!
didn't ask for your weird opinion
Agreed. She's probably my favorite out of all of the test kitchen
She's just the right amount of nerdy and cute (Velma from Scooby doo). Now, I know that may not be a requirement but I think the best women are ATK hosts with Bridget as my fave!
I love her reviews also. I have seen enough of hers that there is a certain rhythm I am now used to and expect from all reviewers.
I'm falling in love with her, their product reviews are so informative it's insane.
The recommended MIU Metal Spatula has a hollow plastic handle. It can get melt if you don't place it away from the heat. That is what happens to my MIU spatula. Don't know how it gets an NSF certification.
Not sure what you think an NSF certification means, but the fact that plastic melts when in contact with hot metal is pretty irrelevant to getting the certification.
Now, if you could place the spatula on the pan and it melted so badly that plastic ran down into the pan with the food in short order, then it would probably not be certified.
How about a review of best spatulas for grilling? Not too thick and with a manageable handle length to keep hands away from flame. Thx
Cook's Illustrated tested grill spatulas for their June 2014 issue, and subscribers to the Web site can look up all the tests both current and past. I subscribe to the magazine as well as all the Web subdivisions: Cooks Illustrated, Cooks Country, and America's Test Kitchen. I think it's a bargain. If you want to see the grill spatula test, see: www.cooksillustrated.com/equipment_reviews/1521-grill-spatulas
SeikiBrian , thank you! I have an ATK account but can not access the link you provided with that login 🤷♀️. Might you remember what spatula they found best?
Yeah, an ATK-only subscription wouldn't work on the Cook's Illustrated site.
The winning grill spatula was the Weber Original Stainless Steel Spatula, with the OXO Good Grips BBQ Turner coming in second. The Weber is only $4.00 more than the OXO, at about $15.00.
SeikiBrian oh nice, we actually have the Weber spatula. Thx again.
Odd that Lisa didn't test the OXO 1130900 Good Grips Fish Turner because they usually include an OXO product and they often 'win'. It's my favorite AND it costs less than the MIU.
Btw, as so often happens when ATK recommends a product, the price magically increases; the MIU is now US$23.
Now it's around $30
@@BlueGorillaInTheMist
Interesting and not surprising.
That makes the current OXO price half of that 'at popular outlets'.
I noticed the fish spatulas are not straight on the end, but slanted a certain direction. It looks like it would be easier for right-handed folks. As a leftie, I can see how this might make it less comfortable for me. Maybe there are some left-handed ones available as I am definitely convinced these are the best!
Miu clamped in a vice and a quick bend and now I saved a bunch plus I get the cool angle
Victorinox and Wusthorf spatulas might as well be die punched out of the same sheet roll of stainless steel on the very same punch die. The only difference is the Wusthorf has 3 extra manufacturing steps to finish it: Edge bevelling, slurring polishing and hand polishing at the buffing wheel.
How about silicone heat resistant spatulas?? Nevermind... Found the video. Thanks test kitchen!! 😁😁😎
Lamaon chef slotted turner 3x6 is the best fish, sunny egg, burger,etc spatula !
Any One let me know how it goes ?!
Any One Amazon is where I got mine. It’s a great investment. And I’m glad I could be of help.
Lamson I believe.
yay, your back. can you do more of these reviews. they are very informative. can you review other household item such as storage sacks for onion/potato, miscellaneous tools of kitchen, or anything unique that may be an addition to the kitchen
Viet Huynh What do you like about their back?
Do fish spatulas come in left-handed and right-handed models?
Is the MIU spatula made in France, I got one, China, handle rusted at edge where it meets support, snapped off in less then a year. I miss brick mortar stores, I would pay the premium knowing it’s the real product over Amazon. Does ATK do long term testing? I assume they put more miles on an item..
.
I have a very old small spatula I use for getting into tight spots to flip or release from a pan, It has a distal taper and is very flexible, but rigid enough not to ever buckle like the very flexible ones of today that are just a piece of thin sheet metal welded to the handle. I am forever looking for it's equal at a larger or same variety. Naturally, a fish spatula is great, but if anyone knows of one that is better, please tell. Does anyone have a DUE BUOI FLEXIBLE Narrow Spatula? I wonder if it's any good.
Now, it's February of 2020 and the best buy, MIU France Flexible Slotted Fish Turner, is $22 on Amazon. Still better than $50+ for the Wusthof (for those of us on a budget). Thanks, ATK!
Now it's around $30
Ah, finally, this video has better, clearer sound than almost all of them. It's still not that loud though, my computer's volume is set full blast and this video came out sounding normal rather than blasting me out of my chair. If I set my volume to slightly less than half way up, the video is way too quiet to hear well. and no, I'm not deaf. Other videos from other channels don't have to be played at full volume to be heard at all.
Would love to see reviews on kitchen shears, mason jars, garlic press and peelers. Potato especially. Love the recommendations. I use so many of them everyday...victorinox knife, oxo cutting board, etc.
It looks like you tested fish spatulas and grilling spatulas. Where are the short handle, non fish type turners?
As much as I love the IDEA of fish spatulas/ turners, I'm too nervous about scratching the seasoning on my cast iron. OXO has a silicone pancake spatula that works great, although it doesn't have the bells and whistles of a fish turner.
Don't worry about it. The seasoning builds back up as you cook.
I have used only metal with my cast-iron for over 40 years and they are fine. I search for metal utensils to avoid plastic endocrine disruptures in all cooking. Good video.
My moms cast iron has only seen metal spatulas, steel wool, and dish soap for 40+ years and I promise you, it's the smoothest cast iron you'll ever see. No issues with seasoning. Cast iron lasts a century for a reason, there's no need to baby it
I feel I need one ASAP I’m looking at my draw of old ones and thinking. Life is shit. I need a new one. Thanks kitchen first world
I absolutely LOVE your reviews, but one that seems to be left out of this review is a less expensive fish turner made by Oxo. I’ve been using one for about a year and absolutely love it. And it’s not expensive m
Apparently from the comments while a lot love it, a lot admit it isnt that great.
wish they made a left handed fish spatula !
Exactly my thought!
Pretty late reply, but here's an option: www.amazon.com/dp/B0078PXSDG/ref=twister_B07J5SMB3M?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Amazon has a Lamsom left handed turner. I bought the black handle but it comes in wooden as well which I kind of wish I’d bought. I love it. Angle is on the right side to turn things properly and as a lefty you appreciate how it works.
What happens to all the test food? Do you just throw ir away and waste it? I often wonder
Always question I think of, why are both items called a spatula since one for scraping the inside of a bowl the so much different as a giant flat one for flipping pancakes? I mean there is a smaller difference between a spoon and a ladle they have different names? Cooking terminology is so confusing sometimes.
Stonedune the correct name for the steel type spatula is a ‘fish slice’
Americans just don’t call it that because they like to be different to everyone else 😂
@@bendavies1758
Incorrect. The long spatula is called a "fish turner".
And both the fish turner and fish slice are types of spatulas. So calling them a spatula isn't even remotely wrong. Just less specific.
Just like calling both a 4 door Toyota sedan and a Ferrari cars isn't wrong, but they aren't the exact same thing.
Probably has something to do with the fact that spatula is a very old word (1500's) related to the word Spade, and simply means a handle with a flat end on it.
So as you can see, they are both spatulas. Which is why we have subcategories, and context.
Oh, and a ladle is *literally* a spoon with a long handle and cup shaped bowl.
why people decide to use the category name for some multiple items, and not for others is beyond me, but it's what people do.
@@lordgarion514 actually in British English every metal 'spatula' is a fish slice, no matter the length or shape. Google it.
A spatula here would be for mixing or scraping food out of something, such as the silicone or wooden kind. These do not have any holes in them, whereas a fish slice does have holes in it.
Also we have such a thing as palette knives, which Americans also label as 'spatula'.
We call it a fish slice to simply differentiate between the objects.
How hard might it be to bend the end of the second place spatula so it will have the same angle as the first place one? Is that the only difference between the two spatulas?
I would say easy to bend but not recommended. It'll break very quickly. Unless you have a touch and safety gear to heat it up until its red than bend it and seal it. Just bending wound fracture the metal. It also looks like that one got the most beating when they heated the handles, but the winner (if the one next to it was the winner) didnt have as deep and as many marks.
Thank you, ordered one immediately.
More equipment reviews from you please! :)
the amazon link for the best buy is 8.87 with free shipping, how could you go wrong?
I just can't bring myself to like fish turners. I've had a Dexter Russell turner with a wood handle and 4-inch blade for about 10 years and it works with ease on everything. If I could find it on Amazon, I'd share the info.
Thank you this is very helpful
A very much enjoy and appreciate the clips from America’s Test Kitchen. Always a good production!
I did order the 2nd choice, the MIU 3 x 11 spatula. It was a long time coming as it was apparently out of stock, but it arrived a few days back.
However, I’m disappointed with this item. I should have guessed it was made in China, a source I’m doing my best to avoid for SO many reasons.
Need I elaborate? I’m Canadian and two of my countryman are languishing in a Chinese prison on trumped up charges over this Huawei issue.
I’m sorry I did not buy the Wusthof. Paying more really is not such a hardship. And that country of origin respects human rights.
Rethink price!!!
Don't kid yourself. A lot of Wustoff is MADE IN CHINA. They pay nothing, and you pay a lot so their profit margins are huge. They don't care for human rights as long as they funnel your money into their bank. Buy the cheapest and best regardless of origins. I'm sorry for the Canadians in jail in China. I hope they got out. Nasty Commie bureaucrats and repressive regime same as Russia.
Your best buy winner link goes to the offset version of the spatula, which I find awkward to use. Can you please provide a link to the one shown in your video?
Pretty sure I can bend the spatula a little bit, and save myself the $35
And don't they look like they were cut with the same die!?!?!
Tried that. Didn't work ~ at all. It wasn't at all flexible and eventually broke where it was bent. Spend $20 bucks, you won't regret it!
Its not $20. One is $9 and the other is $50
I had the same thought lol
@@farbod21 the cheaper one was $16
Great info, great video. Thanks
The Miu Spatula would be my choice for 1 important reason: dishwasher safe
Fish spatulas are the bomb. Can I be on Team Fishspatula?
My all over favourite spatula is the OXO Good Grips fish spatula. It's less than $20.00 and I use it exclusively.
I've noticed you aren't testing as many OXO utensils. Any reason why?
Mine broke in half today.
@@sisterinSC
That's awful! Was it older? What size was it? Good thing they aren't too expensive! Or will you not replace it?
Mine's around a year or two old. I actually have 2. The large one and a smaller one. I really like that they're so flexible.
It was the regular size one. The store replaced it. It was under a year old.
@@sisterinSC
I thought they might. OXO seems to be a good company. I'm glad they replaced it.
I own a number of their products.
But let me warn you~the 🥑 avocado tool they sell doesn't work at all well! I gave mine away. 😂
Hope you're well and stay safe. It isn't over yet (are you as sick of this virus as I am? But we're still fighting it. Retired nurse here, ☺ I can't help but say stay safe)
2:18 Who in their right mind use a long handle conventional spatula in such a tiny frying pan?
Those spatulas are made for very large (12"+) woks and deep frying pans with curved bottom.
What do you guys do with all of the food you cook?
If they don't partner with a homeless shelter/charity they really should
Hey ATK, can you take the the cheaper MIU Spatula and then bend it a little more to try and make it more like the Wusthof? I'm also wondering a Lefty can just bend the metal the other way to make a left-handed spatula. I'm sure the metal integrity will be compromised...but maybe not too much?
These Equipment Reviews are the BEST, thank you!
Wondering about non stick pan versions with the silicone edge, review please...?
The runner-up’s front edge could probably be bent slightly, if that would help its usability, though w/ its shorter handle, I don’t know if it would remain ergonomic w/ the modification.