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A mezzaluna (/ˌmɛtsəˈluːnə/; [ˌmɛddzaˈluːna]) is a knife consisting of a single or double curved blade with a handle on each end. It is often used for chopping cheese, or, as a less common alternative, can be used for herbs. Very large single blade versions are sometimes used for pizza. Common uses in Italy include preparation of a soffritto or a pesto, etc.
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Name
Mezzaluna means "half moon" in Italian, after the curved shape of the blade, and is the most common name used in the UK. Other names used include herb chopper or hachoir [aʃ.waʁ], which is its French name.
Cutting board
Mezzalunas may be found sold with a cutting board that has a shallow indentation in it, marketed as a herb chopper.
Other uses
It is also the name of a restaurant chain. Both Ron Goldman and his friend, Michael Nigg, worked as waiters at Mezzaluna Trattoria, located at 11750 San Vicente Boulevard in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles. Nicole Brown Simpson was a frequent diner there.