01/30/09

Great Selection, Savvy Staff

by JessicaSophia

This is my go-to place for cookware, gadgets, specialty baking items and kitchen appliances. It's rare that this packed-to-the-gills store doesn't have what I need. The salespeople are super-helpful and knowledgeable, and obviously have a passion for what they do. And I love that they have such a full and varied schedule of in-store classes. The class I took, on pressure cookers, was very informative and entertaining.

• Pros: Good selection, helpful staff
• Cons: Can be pricey

A warehouse full of tools and toys for anyone who's serious about cooking.

by Contributor

The Scene
This massive store offers wares for the professional and amateur chef alike. It's easy to get overwhelmed, but don't panic, a knowledgeable sales staff will point you to the right whisk, the latest stoneware and the greatest serving platters.

The Goods
Brands such as Krups, Le Creuset, CuisinArt, Themador and Subzero ensure that you'll be stocking your kitchen with high-class goods. Pros can stock up their restaurants with anything from chafing dishes and fondue pots, to salad spinners and cooking thermometers. Staples such as spatulas and serving dishes show that the amateur chef is just as welcome here. After all, those less confident in the kitchen can take advantage of nightly cooking classes on everything from basic kitchen skills to how to cook a North Indian curry.