Alice’s Mortar and Pestle
Best premium tool for discerning home cooks and design enthusiasts.
Elevate your culinary creations with Alice's Mortar and Pestle, a collaboration with renowned chef Alice Waters. Inspired by the Japanese suribachi, this hand-thrown ceramic piece by Colleen Hennessey is perfect for grinding spices, mashing herbs, and preparing sauces or dips. The solid maple pestle, crafted by Sam Mercer, offers a comfortable grip and effective grinding. Its rough interior texture ensures efficient mashing and grinding, making it an indispensable tool for any home chef seeking authentic flavors and textures.
$280.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
359
/ 872
#359 in Mortars & Pestles
Price vs Category Average
+454%
Above average
Material
Ceramic, Maple
/ Ceramic, Maple
Who it's for
- Home cooks seeking a long-term kitchen investment
- Design-conscious individuals valuing both form and function
- Culinary enthusiasts prioritizing fresh, intense flavors
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for an affordable option
- Apartment dwellers with limited kitchen counter space
- Busy individuals preferring low-maintenance kitchen tools
Performance breakdown
Grinding Efficiency
Rough ceramic interior provides superior friction for rapid spice breakdown.
Ergonomic Grip
Solid maple pestle feels natural and balanced in the hand.
Aesthetic Appeal
Hand-thrown ceramic design serves as a stunning kitchen countertop centerpiece.
Cleaning Ease
Manual hand-washing is required to preserve the delicate ceramic finish.
Stability
Substantial weight keeps the mortar firmly anchored during vigorous grinding.
Versatility
Perfectly sized for everything from delicate herb pastes to dry spices.
Key Specs
Material
Ceramic, Maple
Mortar Diameter
7.5 inches
Mortar Height
3.25 inches
Pestle Length
7.5 inches
Pestle Diameter
1.5 inches
Interior Texture
Rough
Care Instructions
Hand wash only
Features
- Collaboration with Alice Waters
- Japanese Suribachi Inspired Design
- Hand-thrown Ceramic Mortar
- Solid Maple Pestle
- Rough Interior for Effective Grinding
- Unique Handmade Piece
- Ideal for Spices, Herbs, and Sauces
What customers say
Customers consistently praise Alice’s Mortar and Pestle for its exceptional design and superior quality. Many highlight its elegant aesthetic, noting how it enhances kitchen decor while offering robust functionality. Users appreciate the substantial feel and durable materials, which contribute to effective grinding and a satisfying culinary experience. The craftsmanship is frequently mentioned as a key differentiator, making it a cherished tool for both everyday use and special preparations. Its timeless appeal and reliable performance resonate strongly with buyers.
Know before you buy
The textured, unglazed interior acts like a grater, providing the necessary friction to break down spices, herbs, and aromatics more efficiently than a smooth surface. This design is inspired by the Japanese suribachi, which is specifically engineered to create fine pastes and emulsions.
Yes, it is versatile enough for both. The rough ceramic surface is excellent for grinding dry spices into powders, while the depth and stability of the mortar make it ideal for emulsifying vinaigrettes or pounding wet sauces like pesto.
The pestle should be hand-washed with mild soap and warm water, then dried immediately to prevent the wood from warping or cracking. Avoid soaking it in water or putting it in the dishwasher, and consider applying a food-safe mineral oil occasionally to keep the wood conditioned.
No, each piece is unique. Because the mortar is hand-thrown by Colleen Hennessey and the pestle is hand-turned by Sam Mercer, you should expect slight variations in shape, size, and finish, which are hallmarks of the artisanal process.
No, this piece is hand-wash only. The combination of the delicate ceramic construction and the natural maple pestle requires gentle care to maintain the integrity of the materials.
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