Looking at Buying Cookware....Please help.

[hookemfox]

I'm looking into getting a cookware set (pots, pans, skillets, etc.). I have narrowed it down to 3 sets. The Calphalon One Infused, the Calphalon One Non-stick, and the Anolon Advanced non-stick. I talked to someone at Bed Bath and Beyond that said their most returned set is the Anolon set, and that I should go with Calphalon Infused. But after reading user reviews and Consumer Reports, the Anolon Advanced seems to be the way to go. Does anyone have any of these 3 sets that can offer any insight? Thanks.

 

[VacantlyOccupied]

No experience with any of the lines you mentioned, but if I were you I'd seriously consider going to Linens & Things and buying whatever Lodge cast iron cookware they have left at 50% off or whatever the discount is now.

Get a big skillet, small skillet, dutch oven in cast iron, then round out your collection with a couple of sauce pans and a stock pot in whatever brand you like.

 

[hookemfox]

I would normally do that, but I have a a lot store credit at BB&B.

 

[Smurfette]

We have a calphalon set from Target. I've been really happy w/ the pots-- they've held up really well. (And this is one of the cheaper sets as it was made for Target.) Granted, we don't have a dish washer, so that might mean we're a bit easier on them.

Now, the Calphalon specific utensils -- supposed to be made for the pots-- have not held up well at all. The Calphalon bake wear didn't hold up all too well either.

 

[jimmyjazz]

I have a set of Calphalons, but I don't know whether it compares to the "infused" or not. It's called Commercial Hard Anodized, and frankly, it kind of sucks. It's never been overheated or put in the dishwasher, but the anodizing is wearing off on some of the pieces.

I don't think solid aluminum is all that great, anyway.

 

[handcruser]

all of that boxed **** sucks.

 

[1990txgirl]

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[El Paso Way]

Like the others have said, I would buy piece by piece unless, of course, you find a deal. My wife has a collection of All Clad that is second to none. I use it sometimes and it is very high quality material. What I prefer is my Wagner and Griswold cast iron skillets and dutch ovens handed down from my great grand parents. I don't think they make either brand anymore but I've seen them in second hand stores. Yes, get you a couple of coated pans for frying eggs and such. Once you have some experiance in the kitchen, you will form your own opinions as to what works best for you. Don't skimp on the knives. Get the high quality German steel such as the Wustof or Henkels.