Late last year, I realized it was time to retire my pots and pans from their daily rotation. The mixed set of pieces I acquired over the years had served me well but they were clearly past their prime. After researching many different styles and brands of cookware, I purchased a set of Chef's Classic Stainless Cookware by Cuisinart.

• 8 inch skillet
• 10-inch skillets
• 1-1/2 quart covered saucepan
• 3 quart covered saucepan
• 3-1/2 quart sauté pan
• 8 quart covered stockpot

After using the set for about eight months now, I think I've put it through every test imaginable. Since the instruction booklet said these pots and pans could take it, I've used them for freezing, baking, frying, sautéing and broiling. On the stovetop, each pan and skillet cooks evenly, with no hot spots. The lids fit snugly and their handles remain cool except when exposed to prolonged high temperatures. The riveted pot and pan handles are sturdy and easy to grip. The stockpot, with its aluminum core is functional and deep yet lightweight. Despite long stretches in the freezer and oven, there has been no warping or discoloration whatsoever.

Since my cookware hangs from a pot rack in my kitchen, appearance is important to me. The mirror finish on all the pieces has remained bright and lustrous despite almost daily trips through my dishwasher.

The only difficulty I have had with this cookware occurred when I inadvertently burned rice in one of the saucepans (not a regular occurrence, I assure you!). Following Cuisinart's recommendation, I simmered a tablespoon of dishwasher detergent in the pan to loosen the residue but, despite repeated attempts, so far it has not worked. The stubborn stain poses no problem to the performance of the pan, I just don't care for the way it looks.

Overall, I am quite happy with Cuisinart's Classic Stainless Cookware set and look forward to supplementing it with future purchases from their product line. I would heartily recommend this set to anyone ready to purchase stainless steel cookware.