I recently put the Our Place Pot and Pan to the test over the past six months and wanted to share my unfiltered experience with both items.
The Aesthetic Appeal: I initially purchased the Always Pot and Perfect Pan due to their aesthetic charm – opting for the sleek "steam" color to complement my neutral black and white-themed kitchen. The investment was initially daunting at $310, but the aesthetic allure convinced me to take the plunge, and I snagged them for $265 as a duo.
First Impressions: Upon arrival, the products exceeded my expectations. The wooden spatula and steamer basket accompanying the pan, along with the roasting/steaming rack for the pot, showcased attention to detail. The lightweight design (3 pounds for the pan and 4.5 pounds for the pot) was a pleasant surprise.
Innovative Features: The built-in strainer in the pot's lid proved to be a game-changer during pasta preparation, eliminating the need for a colander. However, I must caution that the knobs on the lids can get uncomfortably hot, especially on the pot handles.
Non-Stick Marvel: The non-stick feature lived up to its hype, facilitating effortless cooking and cleaning. Despite its initial brilliance, the coating showed signs of wear after three months, particularly when exposed to high heat. The pot's non-stick function still thrives after six months with proper care.
Staining and Durability: Resistant to internal stains from vibrant spices, the pot maintained its pristine look. However, the pan's bottom suffered significant staining from direct heat, prompting some inconvenience during video shoots.
Pros & Cons Summary: Pros:
- Super cute with unique colors
- Outstanding non-stick performance
- Built-in strainer for the pot
- Steamer and wooden spoon included
- Lightweight and works on all stovetops
Cons:
- Hot knobs on the lid
- Pot handles get hot, not the pan
- Avoid high heat for non-stick preservation
- Pan not oven-safe; pot up to 425°F
- External staining on the pan
Final Verdict: Despite the quirks, I wholeheartedly recommend the Our Place Pot and Pan. If you value aesthetics, are aware of the upkeep needed, and embrace the unique features, the $300 investment is worthwhile. However, if the visual appeal isn't your priority, the conventional alternatives might be a more practical choice.
