My son got me a Japanese chef's knife several years ago that was fantastic, I've worn off the brand name 'A....a' and has been my favorite kitchen knife since. Fits my hand nice, cuts great and I do keep it sharpened regulsrily. Damascus steel where you get that layered pattern on the folded steel.
I do have other knives for heavier duty... like tough squash..

30" Damascus steel Wakizashi Musashi special