Retailer feature : In The Kitchen

We love our Opinel retailers! Learn about their business, how they discovered Opinel, why they brought Opinel into their store. They even share some local tips! This month's feature is Pittsburgh-based In The Kitchen with Marketing & E-Commerce Director, Lana Pasko.

Tell us a little bit about yourself! 

We’re In The Kitchen, Pittsburgh’s home for housewares since 2002. Located in the heart of the Strip District, we proudly serve home cooks, professional chefs, culinary students and food lovers with a carefully curated selection of cookware, cutlery, bakeware, gadgets and more.

Founded by KC and Jim Lapiana, In The Kitchen was built on a passion for cooking and a commitment to helping customers find the best tools for their kitchens. Since moving to the Strip District in 2008 from our previous location north of the city, we’ve become a trusted destination for high quality products, expert advice, and exceptional customer service for the Pittsburgh community.

In addition to our retail store, we offer online shopping, cooking classes and gift registries designed to help customers celebrate life’s special moments. Whether you’re outfitting your first kitchen or upgrading your favorite tools, we’re here to help you cook with confidence.

How would you describe your store?

If you asked our customers, they’d likely say “the place for every kitchen item you never knew you needed!”

At our heart, we are a specialty kitchen retail store that curates a thoughtfully selected mix of tried-and-true products and unique finds for every kind of cook or baker. We focus on offering tools that are both functional and worth-having… products that you’ll rely on and use.

But what sets us apart is we don’t just stock our shelves with great quality products; we actually guide our customers through them. Our team is highly knowledgeable about the brands we carry and passionate about helping our customers find the right tools for their cooking styles, skill levels, and budget.

How did you hear about Opinel?

We first became acquainted with Opinel in 2020. As a specialty kitchen retailer, we feature a knife wall showcasing approximately 16 different knife lines, yet we are always searching for unique products to bring to the Pittsburgh community.

While researching knives specifically designed for children, Opinel came to our attention through a visit from Alex Delecroix, who personally traveled to Pittsburgh to give us an introduction to the brand. Initially, we were looking for smaller, safety-focused knives for young cooks. However, that introduction quickly became an education in the rich heritage and craftsmanship behind Opinel.

Why did you choose to carry Opinel?

We were impressed not only by the functionality of the products but also by the rich heritage behind the brand. And when Opinel became a Vendor Member of our buying group, HTI Buying Group, it was even more a reason to. What began as a search for a specialty item has grown into a valued partnership with a brand that embodies the quality and craftsmanship we strive to offer our customers every day. Today, we proudly carry a comprehensive selection of Opinel knives, tools, and accessories.

What do your customers like most about Opinel?

It’s a toss-up between the brand’s history and the simple, functional design they bring to every tool.

Customer are drawn to the story behind the brand and the fact that they’ve stayed true to their roots for generations. At the same time, they love how straightforward and function-forward the products are. Everything is designed to do its job well without unnecessary complexity.

Do you have a favorite Opinel knife or tool?

While our hearts want to say the No.02 Keychain knives (they’re so whimsy and fun!), our heads say the Picnic Plus Complete Set. What we love most is its versability! Combining the iconic pocket knife with flatware attachments brings together the simplicity and craftsmanship that Opinel is known for, while making you ready for any real-life moments beyond the kitchen.

What is your favorite thing to do in your city/town?

Stroll the Strip District in search for items for a specialty meal (or an elite snack!) Our neighborhood is loaded with produce stands, ethnic grocers, meat and fish markets, and other local gems. It’s a favorite for both new visitors and returning Pittsburghers and one of the best places to source ingredients not found in your regional grocery stores.