As a child, Sur La Table was an unexpected favorite of mine during mall visits with my mother. I eagerly anticipated browsing the aisles of cookware and artisanal foods, especially during the holiday season. I often imagined building my own kitchen and selecting the perfect glasses, plates, and gadgets from the store's shelves. Reflecting on these fond memories, I now realize that my current job aligns perfectly with my passion for culinary arts. As I review the brand's latest cookware, I approach it with high expectations, eager to put it to the test.

What is Sur La Table's new private label cookware collection?

In commemoration of its 50th anniversary in 2022, Sur La Table has recently introduced its own line of cookware, which has been approved by professional chefs. This exclusive collection encompasses a diverse array of pots and pans, crafted from various materials such as enameled cast iron, 5-ply stainless steel, ceramic nonstick, and hard anodized nonstick, catering to a wide range of culinary requirements. This remarkable addition complements Sur La Table's existing assortment of kitchen products, encompassing everything from glassware to pantry essentials and cooking utensils.

The cookware line was launched earlier this year and is conveniently available both in-store and on the Sur La Table website. The pricing for individual pieces commences at $69.95, while sets are priced from $99.95 onwards.

What I tested

I opted to give the traditional 5-ply stainless steel two-piece skillet set a try, available in both 8- and 10-inch sizes, along with the classic saucepan in the same material. Both the skillets and saucepan are oven-safe up to 500°F and dishwasher-safe. The stainless steel is combined with aluminum to enhance heat conductivity and distribute it evenly, while the skillets also contain copper to further enhance their searing capabilities. Additionally, all of these cookware items boast a rounded interior and dripless edges, making cooking a breeze.

What I liked about Sur La Table's cookware

They heat evenly and quickly

The efficiency of the material and design of the saucepan allowed for rapid boiling of water, making meal preparation much faster than anticipated. Additionally, the 10-inch pan proved to be capable of cooking multiple pieces of salmon in a short amount of time. To test the evenness of heat distribution, each pan was greased and floured, resulting in even browning throughout the saucepan and skillets.

They have a user-friendly design

Whether you possess extensive culinary experience or are just starting out in the realm of cooking, it is undeniably effortless to admire the intricate features of this cookware that greatly facilitate certain culinary endeavors. Take, for instance, the interior measurement markings within the saucepan, which effortlessly guide you in adding precise quantities of liquid without the need for prior measurement. Furthermore, the dripless pouring rims present on all the pans simplify the tasks of draining, pouring, and drizzling, rendering them considerably easier and less prone to creating a mess.

Moreover, the handles of these cookware items remain cool to the touch, even when subjected to high heat while simmering food. Additionally, the weight of the largest skillet, although robust, is not excessively heavy, allowing for the effortless flipping of vegetables with a single hand.

They're made of durable materials

The pots and pans are made from 18/10 stainless steel, a durable material that can withstand high heat temperatures without deteriorating or warping. This type of stainless steel contains the highest percentage of nickel compared to 18/8 and 18/0 stainless steels, making it highly resistant to rust and ensuring its original polish remains intact.

Furthermore, the professional-grade 5-ply construction of these cookware ensures compatibility with all types of stove tops, including induction, and guarantees long-lasting performance.

What I didn't like

The initial shine didn't last

The dishwasher-safe label on these pans is misleading as searing often leaves crusty oil residue that requires manual scrubbing before placing them in the machine. Even when the saucepan was seemingly clean after cooking rice, it still had residual markings that didn't come off in the dishwasher. Additionally, water drop markings were sometimes left on the pans after washing, requiring manual cleaning. Despite their initial shine, the pans developed gray-ish spotting after only a few uses that didn't disappear with washing. While it's possible to restore their shine, it's disappointing to have to do so soon after purchasing.

The skillets don't come with lids

When pan frying in a skillet, it's typically best to avoid trapping moisture in order to achieve that crispy browning on meat, veggies, and the like. However, there are certain situations where covering the skillet while cooking is necessary, such as preventing oil splatters, melting cheese, and cooking meat and fish through after searing. Unfortunately, these skillets don't come with lids and there aren't any accompanying lids available for purchase. One option is to use the pot lids from a full cookware set, but they may not fit snugly. In my experience, I've used my own lids with these skillets, which worked well but left small air gaps.

Is the Sur La Table stainless steel cookware line worth it?

YES!

We are unable to provide an accurate assessment of the other material varieties available in Sur La Table's new cookware line. However, we can assure you that the stainless steel skillets and saucepan would make a valuable addition to your kitchen. These pans are capable of effortlessly preparing a wide range of dishes, including soup, stir-fry, and meat. Whether you are an experienced chef or a novice cook, you will find these pans to be efficient and user-friendly. Furthermore, these cookware pieces exude a sense of luxury without carrying an exorbitant price tag.