Get your FREE guide “How to match pasta with sauces”

Click Here
kitchenware shop: shelves filled with cookery pots and pans

Italian Kitchenware: 5 Of My Best Picks For 2023

Apr 22, 2023

Silvana Lanzetta

Written by Silvana Lanzetta

In Blog | Buyers' guide

Discovering the perfect Italian kitchenware can be a challenge with so many options out there! Join me as we explore top brands and tips to make your cookware choice a breeze. Let’s elevate your culinary experience together!

Continue Reading: 8min Read

I know how much of a difference the right kitchenware can make when you’re whipping up your favourite dishes. Italy, a country famous for its mouth-watering cuisine, also happens to be home to some of the most incredible kitchenware brands. But let’s be honest, with so many options available, choosing the perfect set can feel overwhelming! That’s why I’ve put together this article to guide you through the world of Italian kitchenware, sharing my top picks for cookware sets and offering helpful tips to make your decision easier. So, join me as we explore these fantastic brands that combine quality and design to elevate your cooking experience and bring a touch of Italian flair to your kitchen.

On this Page
2
3

My favourite Italian kitchenware

1. Alessi Mami

I found a cookware set that deserves a top spot on my list because of its incredible sturdiness and durability. The secret is in the material – it’s made of 18/10 stainless steel with a polished finish, so you know it’s built to last.
The Alessi Mami 7-Piece SG100S7 set is perfect for anyone who wants a robust saucepan set that’s not only stylish but also easy to clean (yes, even in the dishwasher!).

The Alessi Mami 7 Pezzi SG100S7 is an elegant ensemble of saucepans, designed by Stefano Giovannoni, that pays homage to the classic forms of traditional cookware utilized in bygone eras. The set comprises the following items:

1 pot Ø 20

2 saucepans Ø 20 and 24 cm

1 saucepan with long handle Ø 14 cm

3 lids Ø 14, 20 and 24 cm

2. Barazzoni Mediterranea

You know what’s awesome about each piece in this set? They all have two things in common: a rounded body that gives you extra room to cook, and a triple-layer bottom (steel-aluminium-steel) that makes sure the heat spreads evenly. Plus, they’ve got this great anti-scratch satin finish on the inside.
 
Let me tell you, Barazzoni is a 100% Made in Italy brand that’s all about high-quality, safe, and long-lasting products.
 
Now, I know the price might seem a bit steep, but trust me, you’re getting a 24-piece set that’s going to last you for years.

The Barazzoni Mediterranea collection comprises an extensive array of 24 durable cookware pieces, constructed from robust, corrosion-resistant, and hygienic 18/10 stainless steel. The set includes:

1 pot Ø 20 cm

1 pot Ø 24 cm

1 saucepan Ø 16 cm

1 saucepan Ø 20 cm

1 saucepan Ø 24 cm

1 ML saucepan Ø 14 cm

1 pan Ø 24 cm

1 steam cooker Ø 24 cm

1 milk boiler Ø 12 cm

1 strainer Ø 14 cm

7 lids Ø 14, 16, 20 (x2) e 24(x3) cm

7 kitchen utensils

3. Lagostina Igenio

You know what really caught my eye about this product? It’s designed to save you so much space! The pieces can be stacked together, and the special handles are even removable. This makes it a breeze to serve food straight to the table or pop the pans in the fridge.

And speaking of the handles, they’re seriously strong – they can hold up to 10 kg, work with all the pan bodies included, and boast 3 patents! Plus, the non-stick Mineral coating is free of PFOA, cadmium, and lead. It’s also enriched with mineral particles, so it’s extra scratch-resistant.

I think the Lagostina Ingenio 10-Piece Set is an amazing choice for anyone who needs a space-saving and versatile set of pots.

The Lagostina is one of the most famous  Italian kitchenware brand. Igenio collection comprises a sophisticated ensemble of 10 distinct cookware pieces.

1 wok Ø 28 cm

1 saucepan Ø 24 cm

1 pan Ø 28 cm

1 deep saucepan Ø 16 cm

2 handles

3 glass lids Ø 16, 24, 28 cm

1 plastic lid Ø 16

4. Tognana Stone & Wood

Let me tell you about these super stylish Tognana Stone & Wood frying pans. They’ve got this gorgeous marble-effect finish and a silicone handle that looks just like wood. I’ve been trying out both the 3- and 8-piece sets, and I’m loving them.

The 3-piece set comes with 20, 24, and 28 cm pans, while the 8-piece set has two frying pans (28 and 24 cm) and three saucepans (16, 20, and 24 cm) with matching glass lids. They’re made from forged aluminium, and the thick base works great on any cooktop – gas, electric, or induction.

What I really appreciate is how lightweight and comfy these pans are to handle. Plus, they heat up quickly and evenly, so everything cooks just right. The 4-layer non-stick coating is awesome, too, since I can cook with way less fat.

Of course, remember to treat the non-stick surface with care – no metal utensils or abrasive cleaners, okay?

Now, considering the fab quality and wallet-friendly price, I gotta say I’m pretty impressed. These Tognana Stone & Wood sets are a fantastic choice for healthier cooking and easy cleaning (yup, they’re dishwasher safe!).

The only tiny issue is the handle attachment. It’s got a screw instead of rivets, so it might loosen up over time. Just give it a quick check now and then, and tighten the screw if needed to keep everything secure. No biggie!

So, if you’re in the market for new cookware, I’d definitely recommend giving these Tognana Stone & Wood sets a try.

The Tognana Stone & Wood collection is a refined set of 8 cookware pieces, featuring:

1 frying pan 1 handle Ø 24 cm

1 frying pan 1 handle Ø  28 cm

1 saucepan 1 handle Ø 16 cm

1 saucepan with 2 handles Ø 20 cm

1 saucepan with 2 handles Ø 24 cm

3 glass lids  Ø  16, 20, 24 cm

5. Agnelli AL-BLACK

I’ve been trying out this fantastic set of pots that’ll help you master any cooking technique! These pots have sleek lines and super cool stainless steel handles that are hollow inside, so they’re easy to grip and won’t get too hot.

You’ll find these pots are super versatile with their different heights, perfect for boiling, creaming, frying, braising, sautéing – you name it!

And let me tell you about the amazing coating on these pots. It’s called B-cristal multilayer Teflon, and it’s a game-changer. It’s so innovative that even professional caterers use it for tasks like sautéing omelettes or caramelising because it’s super non-stick.

Now, about the Agnelli Set Al-Black 2 – it’s 3 mm thick and works like a charm on induction hobs too. Honestly, it’s got all the top-notch features that professional chefs love, but without the hefty price tag. That’s why it’s in my list!

The Agnelli Set Al-Black 2 constitutes a collection of cookware pieces, which encompasses:

1 saucepan with 2 stainless steel handles Ø 20 cm

1 saucepan Ø 16 cm

1 saucepan Ø 28 cm

1 pan Ø 24 cm

1 lid Ø 20 cm

How to choose your Italian kitchenware

Picking the perfect cookware set can be tricky. With so many brands and models to choose from, it can feel overwhelming. You’ve got stainless steel, cast iron, aluminium, copper, and even combinations of different materials.
So, how do you find the right set for your budget? First, you need to know exactly what you want. That means understanding some key features of different models to make an informed choice.

A few things to think about when choosing a cookware set:

  1. Heat Conduction: Some metals conduct heat better than others. Copper, for example, is a fantastic heat conductor, while stainless steel isn’t quite as good. Better heat conduction means more evenly cooked food and quicker response to temperature changes.
  2. Price: Your budget is a major factor. Try to pick the best cookware set you can afford.
  3. Durability: Some cookware lasts longer than others. Stainless steel is a top choice for durability.
  4. Reactivity: Certain metals can react with specific types of food. Aluminium, for example, can react with acidic foods like tomatoes. This might cause your food to absorb metal particles. So, it’s important to know the characteristics of the material you choose for your cookware set.
  5. Maintenance: If you don’t want to spend a lot of time polishing your cookware, think about the maintenance required for different models. Copper or cast iron cookware needs more upkeep to stay looking nice, while stainless steel is much easier to maintain.
With these factors in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect cookware set for your kitchen!
Copper cooking pots on display

Let’s look at it in more detail

Which material is best suited to your needs?

Let’s talk about materials! When it comes to choosing the right cookware, the material plays a huge role in durability, maintenance, and how well it conducts heat. Here are the most popular choices:

  1. Stainless Steel: This common material is perfect for induction hobs and is a mix of steel, carbon, and chromium. It’s called “stainless” because it resists corrosion. While it’s not the best heat conductor, you can find options with aluminium or copper cores. Stainless steel is affordable, long-lasting, and doesn’t react with food. Plus, it stays shiny for ages!
  2. Cast Iron: This old-school favourite has been used for centuries, but it requires some TLC. Cast iron is long-lasting, inexpensive, and retains heat well. On the downside, it can react with certain foods, requires maintenance, is pretty heavy, and may rust over time.
  3. Aluminium: About half of the pans out there are made of this heat-conducting material. However, it’s a soft metal and can be damaged by strong flames on gas hobs. That’s why it’s often used as a core layer between other metals. Anodizing can make aluminium more scratch-resistant and less reactive with food. The only downsides are its reactivity with acidic foods and susceptibility to scratches.
  4. Copper: These pricey pans are a favourite among professional chefs thanks to their amazing heat conduction. They react super quickly to temperature changes and are often combined with other materials like stainless steel. The biggest drawbacks are the high cost and the need for regular maintenance.

So, now you know the ins and outs of these popular cookware materials. Keep this in mind as you hunt for the perfect set for your kitchen!

How many pieces do you really need?

You’ll want to think about the number of pieces in a set, which includes pots, lids, and sometimes even accessories like ladles and forks.
For singles, couples, or small families of up to three people, a 5-9 piece cookware set might be just right. It’s also great for supplementing a set you already have or replacing essential pieces.
On the other hand, if you’ve got a big family or need to cook a wide variety of dishes, you might want to go for a complete cookware set with over 20 pieces. These sets typically have everything you need, like pans, saucepans, cylindrical pots, milk pans, grills, and more.

How big do your pots and pan need to be?

Size is definitely a key factor when you’re picking out the perfect cookware set. You’ll want a set with pots and pans in various sizes to suit all your cooking needs. Typically, a standard set includes pots in sizes like 16 cm, 18 cm, 20/22 cm, and 24 cm. Some sets even have larger elements, measuring up to 28 cm.
So, when you’re searching for the best cookware set on the market, think about your personal cooking habits and make sure the sizes included in the set match your needs. That way, you’ll be ready to whip up anything from a small side dish to a family feast!

Don’t forget to consider handles and lids!

When it comes to choosing a cookware set, handles and lids are two critical factors to keep in mind. For handles, stainless steel is a top choice since they’re durable and easy to clean. Plus, they’re oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly. However, they get hot, so you’ll need to use pot holders to handle them safely.
On the other hand, silicone or plastic handles stay cool to the touch, but they might not hold up as well in the dishwasher or withstand high oven temperatures. Some stackable kitchenware sets even feature removable handles, making them extra practical and versatile.
As for lids, you’ll typically find them in either steel or tempered glass. Tempered glass lids are super handy because they let you keep an eye on your cooking, but it’s essential they have a vent valve to let steam escape. So, as you hunt for the perfect cookware set, don’t forget to consider handles and lids – they’ll make all the difference in your cooking experience!

Double check the compatibility with your hob.

When shopping for a cookware set, it’s crucial to make sure it’s compatible with your stove. Not all cookware works well with induction or glass-ceramic cooktops. This kind of hobs need pots and pans with thinner bottoms.
On the flip side, gas stove tops are better suited for cookware with thicker bottoms. Kitchenware with a triple-layer steel-aluminium-steel construction can withstand high flame temperatures. You’ll find compatibility information on the packaging or in the product description. Always double-check to ensure your new cookware set will work with your stove!

How much should you spend?

Price can vary significantly depending on factors like material quality, durability, functionality, and design. Generally, higher-quality cookware is more expensive, but it performs better and lasts longer.
Here’s a breakdown of the main price ranges for cookware sets and what you can expect from each category:
 

1. Budget-friendly cookware sets: Falling between $20 and $50, these sets feature cheaper stainless steel or aluminium materials and a basic non-stick coating. While their lifespan might be limited and the non-stick coating may wear off over time, they’re suitable for occasional use and cooking simple meals. 

2. Mid-range cookware: Priced between $50 and $150, this category includes sets made from high-quality stainless steel or premium aluminium alloys. They generally have a more durable non-stick coating and longer-lasting performance. You might even find some copper pans in this range, known for their superior heat conductivity. These cookware sets are great for everyday use and for preparing more elaborate dishes. 
3. High-end cookware sets: Costing over $150, high-end cookware is crafted from top-notch materials like surgical stainless steel, titanium, or solid copper. These sets usually boast elegant and sophisticated designs, high-quality finishes, and fine details. They can withstand very high temperatures and offer exceptional performance in terms of heat conductivity, wear resistance, and durability. Perfect for professional use or cooking gourmet meals at home.

A list of the best Italian kitchenware brands

Italy is well-known for its high-quality cookware, and many prestigious manufacturers have earned a global reputation for excellence. Here are some of the top Italian kitchenware brands you should keep an eye on:

 

  1. Lagostina: A leader in innovative and stylish cookware, Lagostina is renowned for its quality and performance.
  2. Alessi: Known for its unique and artistic designs, Alessi offers a wide range of kitchenware and home accessories.
  3. Ballarini: A popular brand that provides durable and functional cookware for both home and professional kitchens.
  4. Bialetti: Famous for its iconic Moka Express stovetop espresso maker, Bialetti also offers a variety of cookware and kitchen tools.
  5. Mepra: With a focus on elegant and functional design, Mepra creates high-quality stainless steel cookware and tableware.
  6. Sambonet: This prestigious brand is known for its premium flatware, tableware, and cookware, often found in luxury hotels and restaurants.
  7. Ruffoni: Crafting artisan copper cookware, Ruffoni combines traditional techniques with modern innovations for exceptional performance and aesthetics.
  8. Pintinox: Offering a variety of stainless steel cookware, flatware, and tableware, Pintinox is known for its quality and design.
  9. Paderno: A leading brand in professional cookware, Paderno provides a range of products for both home cooks and professional chefs.
  10. Silikomart: Specialising in high-quality silicone bakeware and kitchen accessories, Silikomart offers a range of products for creative and functional cooking.

Latest Articles

Latest

Get your FREE guide "How to match pasta with sauces"

Head to your inbox to download your guide! If you can't find the email, please check your junk folder before contacting me!

Your email is secure with us

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This