Tomer Botner

Florentine Kitchen Knives

Knife maker

©Claudia Maurino

A sharp embodiment of functionality and design

Tomer designs and creates handmade knives for professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts
He shares his expertise at culinary events and workshops
His designs are influenced by the Mediterranean and contrasts

Tomer Botner produces modern yet timeless knives using time-tested sharpening techniques, following a belief that knife making demands dedication, precision and passion. A product designer from Tel Aviv with a background in hospitality, Tomer developed his craft from his love for food, largely through trial and error. Tomer founded Florentine Kitchen Knives in 2012, an atelier based in Barcelona's Poblenou district since 2022. His workshop remains a vital part of the local and global community thanks to culinary events and courses he offers. "My mission is to perfect my craft. I have a deep respect for tradition, but I am still driven by my curiosity about technology, materials and processes, to guarantee that each knife I make embodies functionality and design," Tomer says. "I want to bring my customers joy through cooking and provide them with valuable tools," he explains.

Interview

©Claudia Maurino

©Claudia Maurino

How and when did you get started?: I worked with experienced individuals who took great pride in their work in the hospitality industry, and that has stayed with me. Later, I entered a competition on Instagram with my final design school project, a set of kitchen knives, and was chosen to be featured on their profile. From then, my fate was sealed.
How is your craft linked to the territory where you live?: It is hard for me to imagine leaving the Mediterranean, a sea I was born on the shores of. My designs reflect both my origins and history, as well as my present and outlook on the future. This is not limited to using local materials. It is about being a part of a community, in craftsmanship and beyond.
What was the turning point in your practice?: Being in the local paper for the first time made me feel like I cannot stop now. I am not allowed to give up on my craft until it succeeds. One of the things that got me there was being approached by Nick Bril and Sergio Herman to make bespoke knives for The Jane, their new Antwerp restaurant. This was the door that opened many other doors.
What life lessons have you learned from knife making?: Over the years, I learned that the artisan journey is an individual one, but it is better and more interesting when it is shared with others.

Tomer Botner is a master artisan: he began his career in 2012 and he started teaching in 2018