What kind of difference is there between say the mafter mandoline ($169) and a much lower priced mandoline? Is it worth it to pay the extra dough? Thanks.

[Isa]

With the expensive French mandoline, you can do waffle cuts but you can't with the Japanese mandoline. It comes with three blades. At about 22$ in Chinatown it's a good buy.

[Mezzaluna]

I have the Matfer (paid $75 in Paris, but had to lug it home). As Sisi said, you can do waffle cuts with it. But I think the cheaper one is fine for slices and juliennes and you don't have to sweat it if it gets a little rough usage. I do love mine, though.

[Live_to_cook]

The plastic mandolines are good for most uses but in some models you can't replace the blades if they get dull... have to throw out the unit.

Look around on eBay. I got my Bron (French) mandoline for $110, including shipping, instead of the $165 or more in stores around here. It's MUCH fancier than I need, but I'm a tool nut anyway. As with any good tool, it is a real pleasure to use it.

Mike

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travelling gourmand

[Dlee]

nella,

It's kinda like buying a car, any car can take you from point A to point B. But you can buy a car with more frills ETC...

Both mandolines are good for different reasons. The more expensive one can be passed down to your grandkids. While the least expensive one will last a couple of years.

My I suggest that, unless you are going to earn money or you do a lot of parties, then with out a doubt get expensive one. You should get the least expensive one if you will only use it from time to time.

VIP- Be careful and follow the safty suggestions.

D. Lee

got the mafter mandoline for christmas...just wanted to report it is indeed great!! Thanks.