I know, I know - another 5-star review from a Vine reviewer. In this case, it's well-earned, and I don't give 5 stars very often (check my reviews). This pan is among the best I've ever tried in the 20+ years I've been testing kitchenware. I've actually already purchased more pieces in this line for when I need more than one pan to cook dinner. 1. Great size for one or two people. I cook 5-7 days/week for myself and my husband, and this pan really does replace pretty much everything for us. Previously, I used a 2-quart saucepan, 3.5-quart saute pan (straight sides), and/or a 12-inch skillet for pretty much every meal - this one does all those jobs in spades. Stir-fry, soup, spaghetti sauce, vegetables, eggs -- it all works. I've bought the 8.5 inch skillet and 2 quart saute pan to supplement, but I can get away with only using this pan when I cook from one-pan cookbooks. 2. What people say about clean-up is true. I've never found stainless steel especially difficult to clean unless I did something truly disastrous, so I figured this would be about the same. No. Not even remotely. I can practically use my fingers to clean off anything on this pan, once it's cooled in the sink. Anything really stuck on can be attacked with steel wool, according to the instructions, but I've yet to have the need. 3. Comfortable to use. The handle is at a good angle for me, and doesn't seem to heat up as quickly as other pans. The shape of this pan makes it easier to carry and pour than the 3.5 quart saute pan, too. 4. Good heat distribution. I haven't noticed any hot spots using my gas range. The instructions recommend heating your oil on medium to medium-high, and paying close attention, since this pan heats faster than stainless. I've found this to be true, which has meant I have to adjust my mis en place a bit - I usually leave some of it for when the pan is heating, but I can't with this baby. 5. Lid fits securely - but of course it gets hots. No problems with steam escaping that I've seen, better than many pots I've used. 6. Looks great. I keep my pans in a drawer, so I really don't care how they look, but for those who like beautiful cookware, this is it. Definitely dry immediately after you wash, though, because it'll get water spots if you leave it to air dry. These wipe up easily, too, though. The company included a sample of their cleaner to refresh your pan if it lose its pretty finish, but I've yet to need it. Note that they say you can also just use a cut half of a lemon if you notice any blue-ing of the finish from cooking. Kinda handy to know! Overall, I'm genuinely thrilled with this pan, and kind of amazed how much better I like it than my All-Clad, Calphalon, and Breville cookware. Definitely recommended.
