There’s more to New Orleans than Café Du Monde. Look no further than Cure and Cane & Table, two New Orleans restaurants with kitchens led by executive chef Alfredo Nogueira, or Fredo for short. A Big Easy native, Nogueira combines the Cajun flavors of the city with his Cuban heritage to create dishes that evoke the memories of his mother’s and grandmother’s cooking. From a $23 knife that comes with Anthony Bourdain’s endorsement to the coffee maker Nogueira uses to get his team and himself ready for service, these are the tools the New Orleans chef can’t cook without.

Victorinox Offset Serrated Knife

“An offset serrated knife is recommended in chapter two of Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain. That’s what drew me to these knives, and I’ve used them ever since I read his book. It’s great for bread and tomatoes if you want a clean cut — and I cut a lot of bread and tomatoes. The Victorinox fish spatula is pretty essential in the kitchen as well — it’s not just for fish!”

Eddington 50002 Italian Olive Wood Cooking Spoon

“I like to do a lot of long cooking, and this spoon helps in the process. When you’re browning and stirring, you really need a good wooden spoon. They have a nice feel to them, and they do have an effect on the dish.”

ThermoWorks Thermapens

“These are instant-read thermometers, so the temperature comes up quickly. A really good thermometer like that can be a lifesaver, because the temperature can make or break a dish. It’s also crucial if you’re making the turkey at Thanksgiving.”

Bialetti Moka Express

“I’m of Cuban descent, and these stovetop espresso makers are common in every Cuban household. It’s simple to use, and it makes coffee that’s just about as strong as it gets. You can get the whole staff moving really quickly. I’m a known coffee-drinker, so it’s necessary in the kitchen.”

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.