Prep Tools

Bottle Opener

Pops bottle caps and corks for the cook and the table

Pries off bottle caps and, in waiter's-friend form, pulls corks too. A solid metal one outlasts flimsy versions and won't bend on a stubborn cap. Handy at the stove and on the table alike.

A bottle opener pries off bottle caps and, in waiter's-friend form, pulls corks too. A solid metal one outlasts flimsy versions and won't bend on a stubborn cap. It earns its keep both at the stove — opening beer for a braise, wine for a sauce — and at the table.

Types & varieties

Handheld cap opener

Simple, sturdy, and cheap; just pops caps. Hard to beat for reliability.

Waiter's friend

Folding tool with a cap lifter and corkscrew worm — the all-in-one a pro carries.

Winged corkscrew

Two levers that rise as you turn in; easy leverage for pulling corks.

Wall-mounted opener

Fixed to a wall or bar with a cap catcher; great for entertaining areas.

Cap vs. cork

If you only open caps, a simple sturdy handheld is all you need. If you open wine, a waiter's friend is the most versatile single tool — it pops caps and pulls corks, folds flat, and travels. Set the worm's tip in the center of the cork and twist straight down so it doesn't crumble.

Simple cap opener for beer and soda
Waiter's friend for both caps and corks
Center the corkscrew worm and twist straight
Pull steadily — rocking can break a dry cork

Common uses

Popping caps off beer and soda bottlesPulling corks from wine bottlesOpening bottled ingredients for cookingServing drinks at the table or barLifting crown caps off homemade ferments and sodas

Tips & pitfalls

Center the corkscrew on the cork and drive it straight down to avoid crumbling.
With a waiter's friend, use both notches of the lever in two stages for easier pull.
A heavy solid opener won't flex or slip on a stubborn crimped cap.
Keep one in the kitchen drawer and one with your serving things so you always have it.
Wipe the corkscrew worm clean so old wine doesn't dry and flake into the next bottle.