Microplane Premium Classic Zester Review: The Must‑Have Tool for Citrus, Cheese & Spices
Aiming to add fresh citrus zest or finely grated Parmesan to your dishes without digging into bitter pith or risking a dull, uneven grate? The Microplane Premium Classic Zester delivers ultra-fine zest and effortless grating across citrus, cheese, garlic, ginger, nutmeg, chocolate, spices, and more. Loved by pro chefs and home cooks alike, it sets the bar for precision, comfort, and versatility without breaking the bank.
Features & Specs
- Ultra-sharp photo-etched stainless‑steel blade (400 micro‑teeth): ideal for fluffy, fine zest from lemons, limes, or oranges, and fine shavings of hard cheese and spices .
- Soft-touch ergonomic handle, available in many colors, enhances grip and reduces hand fatigue.
- Non-slip rubber feet at base provide stability when zesting over bowls or boards .
- Compact design (~8″ blade length), easy to store price usually around $17‑18 on Amazon.
- ULTRA SHARP BLADES – Blades are made of US Stainless Steel, at our facility in Russellville Arkansas; The Wood handle is…
Performance in Real Kitchens
Multiple reviews and tests confirm the Microplane Premium Zester as top-rated for finesse and durability:
- Serious Eats names it the best rasp-style grater for effortless citrus zesting and ease of cleaning editor praising its wrap-around blade edge and comfortable handle .
- Food & Wine endorses it as the go-to zester, used to grate citrus, cheese, ginger, garlic, nutmeg and chocolate with consistent performance even after years of use.
- EatingWell calls it an essential under‑$20 gadget, elevating salads and dressings by evenly distributing aromatics and flavor.
Customers on Amazon also praise:
“A best‑in‑class zester sharp, reliable, and ergonomic… we use it weekly for everything from lemon zest to cheese” .
- Snap-on Cover: It can be used as a scraper or container for collecting grated food. Store with blade covered when not in…
- Ultra-sharp Blade: Fast and effortless grating and zesting, made from razor-sharp stainless steel blade
- Anti-slip Handle: Non-slip cheese grater handle easy to control, comfortable while holding, effortless and safe while gr…
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Razor-sharp blades for ultra-fine zest without reaching bitter pith
- Versatile: citrus, cheese, garlic, spices, chocolate, ginger
- Comfortable soft-touch handle and stable rubber feet
- Lightweight and compact for easy storage
- Extremely durable even after years of regular use
- Exceptional value at ~$18 with thousands of positive reviews
❌ Cons
- Food can get stuck between blade teeth; cleaning may require brushing
- Larger box graters may perform better for high-volume jobs
- Some prefer a model with wooden handle (Master Series) for aesthetic but price increases
Who Should Buy It?
- Anyone who cooks with citrus lemons, limes, oranges—for zest or flavoring
- Home cooks who frequently grate hard cheese, garlic, ginger, nutmeg, chocolate
- Salad lovers, bakers, cocktail makers, and spice enthusiasts
- Anyone looking for high-quality performance in a compact, affordable tool
- Cooks building a curated utensil set—this one zester replaces multiple tools
Usage Tips (H3)
- For citrus, hold fruit and zest face-down over a bowl to avoid bitter pith—Martha Stewart’s recommended technique .
- Light pressure is all you need—blade glides easily, so no force required .
- After use, tap gently to drop loose bits, rinse under water or place in top rack of dishwasher. Brush grooves if needed to remove debris Amazon.
Comparison with Alternatives
- OXO Good Grips Zester & Grater: a less expensive option (~$11) that handles citrus and spices well—but lacks Microplane’s blade sharpness and stability .
- Microplane Master Series: higher-end version with wooden handle more aesthetic but similar performance and higher price .
Summary Table
| Feature | Microplane Premium Classic Zester |
|---|---|
| Blade | Photo‑etched stainless steel, 400 micro‑teeth |
| Handle | Soft-touch ergonomic grip with rubber feet |
| Ideal For | Citrus zest, cheese, spices, garlic, ginger |
| Maintenance | Tap off zest, rinse or dishwasher (top rack) |
| Durability | Consistent performance over years |
| Price Range | ~$17–18 on Amazon |
| Rating & Reviews | Thousands of 5★ reviews, chef-approved |
| Limitations | Grooves may trap bits; not ideal for bulk |
Conclusion & Call to Action
The Microplane Premium Classic Zester is more than just a grater it’s a kitchen essential that delivers unmatched precision, comfort, and versatility. Whether you’re zesting citrus, grating cheese or spices, or adding flavor to salads, sauces, and cocktails, this tool does it all with effortless finesse.
👉 Click below to view the current price on Amazon and pick up the Microplane Premium Classic Zester—elevate your prep with pro-level precision and flavor, at a value that lasts.
