Italian Cookware Buying Guide: Everything You Need To Know

CRYSTAL H.  | ,   |   Updated
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Italian cookware adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen. The right tools help to transform your cooking and elevate any meal. Read on to learn more about the history of some of the biggest names in Italian cookware and their worthwhile features to consider when looking for new pots and pans.

Italian cookware buying guide

What are the worthwhile features of Italian Cookware

People buy Italian cookware for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, Italian cookware is known for its high quality and durability.

All the Italian cookware brands mentioned below make products built to last, and they are all backed by warranties. Additionally, Italian cookware is known for its beautiful designs and innovative features. Each brand has its unique style, and all products are made with attention to detail.

You may not think it, but Italian cookware is often more affordable than other high-end brands. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, it is still more affordable than some top-of-the-line brands.

Where are These Made, and Who Makes Them

Some popular Italian cookware brands include Ruffoni, Ballarini, Lagostina, Bialetti, and Inoxriv.

Ruffoni cookware

Fremide Ruffoni founded Ruffoni in 1962 in the Italian Alps, where the company is based today. All of its products are handcrafted in Italy by skilled artisans. Ruffoni cookware is known for its beautiful designs and superior quality and has been featured in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens.

Ruffoni Symphonia Cupra Frying Pan / Fry Pan / Skillet - 10.25 Inch, Brown


Ruffoni copper pan

available at Amazon

Ballarini 

Ballarini cookware has been making quality products since 1892, and the company is still family-owned and operated today. Ballarini cookware is made in Italy using the latest technology and the highest-quality materials. The company is known for its innovative designs and attention to detail, and professional chefs and home cooks prize its products.

Lagostina

Lagostina was founded in 1902 in the Italian city of Alessandria. The company is based in Italy, and all of its products are made in-house at its manufacturing facility in Alessandria. Lagostina cookware is known for its high quality and durability, and chefs worldwide have used it for generations.

Lagostina Martellata Hammered Copper 18/10 Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set, 10-Piece, Copper

Inoxriv

Inoxriv was founded in 1941 by a group of engineers passionate about cooking. The company is based in Italy, and all of its products are made in-house at its manufacturing facility in Tuscany. Inoxriv cookware is known for its exceptional quality and durability, and it has been used by professional chefs and home cooks alike.

Bialetti

The Bialetti company was founded in Italy in 1919 by Alfonso Bialetti. He invented the first aluminum stovetop espresso pot, which quickly became popular in Italy. The company continues to produce a wide range of cookware, including pots, pans, kettles, and more. Click here for five great designs in pots and pans of Bialetti cookware!

What type of cookware are they

All the brands mentioned above make a variety of cookware, including pots and pans, dutch ovens, and skillets. However, each brand specializes in a particular type of cookware.

For example, Ruffoni is known for its beautiful copper cookware, Inoxriv is known for its quality stainless steel cookware, Lagostina is known for its durable cast iron cookware, and Ballarini is known for its high-quality ceramic cookware.

Bialetti cookware specializes in coffee machines, including the MOKA pot (Amazon link).

What are the downsides, if any

The main downside to Italian cookware is the price. While it is more affordable than some top-of-the-line brands, it is still more expensive than some of the lower-priced options.

Additionally, many of the brands mentioned above are only available through specialty stores or online, so they may be difficult to find in brick-and-mortar stores.

How do they compare in price to other, more common cookware

Italian cookware is often more expensive than other high-end brands. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, it is still more affordable than some top-of-the-line brands. However, Italian cookware is often less expensive than other high-end brands.

Any special care or maintenance requirements and warranty

Yes, all of the brands mentioned above require special care and maintenance. For example, Ruffoni copper cookware must be polished regularly with a specific polish to maintain its shine.

Additionally, all of the brands mentioned above come with warranties.

For example, Lagostina offers a warranty on all its cookware following normal use. Ballarini cookware provides a lifetime warrantyBialetti carries a two-year manufacturing warranty.

Where Can You Buy Them

All the brands mentioned above sell their products through specialty stores or online. Lagostina and Ballarini both have official websites where you can purchase their products.

Inoxriv can be purchased through its website or various online retailers, including Amazon. Ruffoni cookware is available through its official website, but some lines are available at Amazon (see above).

Sources

120 years of Lagostina – Interni Magazine

History & heritage – Bialetti

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