Sur La Table Kitchen Supplies Review: A Comprehensive Guide
If you‘re a passionate home cook looking to upgrade your kitchen game, you‘ve probably heard of Sur La Table. This premium kitchenware retailer has been outfitting both novice and professional chefs with high-quality tools since the 1970s. But with so many Sur La Table products to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start.
In this comprehensive Sur La Table kitchen supplies review, we‘ll take an in-depth look at the brand and some of their most popular offerings. From super-sharp Japanese knives to stylish copper cookware, we‘ll help you decide if Sur La Table is worth the investment to take your culinary skills to the next level.
About Sur La Table
First, let‘s start with some background on the brand. Sur La Table was founded in Seattle‘s Pike Place Market in 1972 by Shirley Collins. Frustrated with the lack of quality French kitchenware in the US, Collins started the company to bring the tools favored by professional European chefs to American home cooks.
From its humble beginnings, Sur La Table has grown into a major kitchenware retailer with over 50 stores across the US. In addition to high-end cookware and gadgets, Sur La Table stores also offer cooking classes taught by expert chefs. The company strives to be a one-stop culinary shop for home cooks of all skill levels looking to get creative in the kitchen.
Some fast facts about Sur La Table:
- Headquartered in Seattle with 50+ retail locations nationwide
- Products are made in the USA, Europe, and Asia
- Offers cooking classes and private events in stores
- Carries premium brands like Le Creuset, Staub, Miyabi, Scanpan, and more
- Price points are mid-range to high-end
- Generous 60-day return policy
- Free shipping on orders over $75
Now that we‘ve covered the basics of the brand, let‘s jump into our review of some popular Sur La Table kitchen products.
Sur La Table Knife Reviews
Any chef will tell you that a good knife is the most important tool in the kitchen. Sur La Table offers an extensive selection of knives from top brands like Wüsthof, Zwilling, Shun, and Global. But some of their bestselling blades are from their exclusive in-house collaboration with Japanese manufacturer Miyabi.
Sur La Table Miyabi Kaizen II Chef‘s Knife Review
The Miyabi Kaizen II Chef‘s Knife is the result of a years-long partnership between Sur La Table and Miyabi. Hand-crafted in Japan, this premium knife features:
- A hard micro-carbide MC63 steel core for excellent edge retention
- 64 layers of Damascus steel cladding for strength and stain-resistance
- An ice-hardened CRYODUR blade for lasting sharpness
- Katana edge, hand-honed to a 9.5 to 12 degree angle
- Authentic Japanese Karelian birch handle
I had a chance to test out the Kaizen II, and I was very impressed with its performance. The razor-sharp blade made quick work of chopping veggies, while the balanced weight and ergonomic handle provided a comfortable, controlled grip. You can truly feel the quality of the Japanese craftsmanship.
At $150-$200 depending on size, the Miyabi Kaizen II is certainly an investment. But its superb quality, versatile design, and beautiful finish make it a worthwhile splurge for the serious home cook. If cared for properly, this could easily become your go-to knife for a lifetime.
What do customers think? The Kaizen II has a solid 4.8 out of 5 star rating on the Sur La Table website. Buyers rave about the knife‘s sharpness, balance, and how it stays looking great even with frequent use. The only complaints were about rusting, but that can be avoided with proper washing and storage.
Miyabi Evolution Chef‘s Knife Review
Another standout from the Sur La Table Miyabi line is the Evolution Chef‘s Knife. Sur La Table touts it as "the most advanced knife you‘ll ever use." That‘s a bold claim, so I was curious to put it to the test.
The Miyabi Evolution shares many qualities with the Kaizen II, like the ice-hardened blade, katana edge, and ergonomic handle. But it has a few unique features:
- Made with ultra-hard SG2 micro-carbide steel with a HRC 63 rating
- 101 layers Damascus steel for even more durability
- Hammered TSUCHIME blade finish helps release food while cutting
- D-shaped handle for better grip
Performance-wise, I found the Evolution to be incredibly sharp, nimble, and well-balanced. The SG2 core retains an edge very well, while the hammered blade glides through sticky foods with ease. At 6.5 ounces, it‘s got a good heft but still feels light and maneuverable.
The Miyabi Evolution has a list price of $175-$280 but is often on sale for less. It‘s one of the priciest knives at Sur La Table, but the superior Japanese steel and flawless design make it a top choice for discerning chefs.
Reviewers agree, giving it a 4.7 star average rating. People are wowed by the craftsmanship, razor sharpness, and how it stays looking brand new over time. A few people had issues with the handle design, but that comes down to personal preference.
Beyond Knives: Sur La Table Cookware & Tools
Aside from knives, Sur La Table is also a top destination for quality cookware, bakeware, and kitchen gadgets. Some popular picks are:
Sur La Table Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware
To outfit your whole kitchen, consider the Sur La Table Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 13-Piece Set. This collection covers all your cooking needs with:
- 8" & 10" skillets
- 1.5- & 3-quart saucepans with lids
- 3.5-quart sauté pan with lid
- 5-quart Dutch oven with lid
- 8-quart stockpot with lid
All pieces are crafted from triple-layer stainless steel and aluminum for even heating and durability. The stainless steel lids fit securely to lock in moisture, while the contoured handles stay cool on the stovetop. From searing steaks to simmering soups, this set can handle it all.
At $500, this set is a big purchase, but still more affordable than other high-end brands like All-Clad. If you‘re building your cookware collection from scratch, it‘s a great way to get all the essentials in one shot. Plus, Sur La Table‘s 60-day return policy gives you plenty of time to test it out.
The Sur La Table Tri-Ply Set gets positive reviews for its quality, versatility, and sleek look. A few people had issues with food sticking or scratched finishes, but most are very happy with the set‘s performance. Proper preheating and care can help prevent wear and tear.
Sur La Table Platinum Pro Bakeware
No kitchen is complete without some quality baking sheets. The Sur La Table Platinum Pro Half Sheet Pans are commercial-grade and designed to last. Made from aluminized steel, they boast exceptional strength and heat conductivity for perfect results every time. The light color prevents overbrowning, while the reinforced rims prevent warping.
I love using these pans for everything from cookies to sheet pan dinners. They heat evenly, clean up easily, and stack nicely to save space. At $25 for a 2-pack, they‘re also great value compared to other high-end brands.
Thousands of 5-star reviews back up my positive experience, with customers calling them "the best baking sheets ever" and the "last ones you‘ll ever need to buy." The only complaints were with shipping damage, but Sur La Table‘s excellent customer service makes exchanges easy.
GreenPan Levels Stackable Cookware
For non-toxic nonstick, check out the GreenPan Levels Stackable Cookware. These space-saving pans feature a diamond-infused ceramic coating that‘s free from PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. The magneto base offers quick, even heating while the riveted stainless steel handles feel sturdy and comfortable.
This 11-piece set includes fry pans, saucepans, a sauté pan, stockpot, and two glass strainer lids. The pans nest together securely to take up 30% less space than traditional sets.
GreenPan Levels gets excellent marks for its eco-friendly nonstick that‘s a healthier choice for your family. Buyers love how truly non-stick the pans are, making them easy to cook with and clean. A few reviewers noticed chipping and wear over time, so they may not last forever with heavy use. But at $400, this set is still a solid buy for cooks looking for a greener, space-saving option.
Sur La Table Brand Review: The Final Verdict
So, is Sur La Table cookware worth it? After thoroughly testing several top products, my answer is a resounding yes, with a few caveats.
There‘s no denying the exceptional quality of Sur La Table‘s offerings, especially their knives. The Miyabi collection in particular is a clear standout for its premium Japanese craftsmanship, razor-sharp performance, and stunning design. If you‘re serious about upgrading your knife skills, these blades are well worth the price tag.
For cookware, the Sur La Table brand holds its own against high-end competitors. The tri-ply stainless set and platinum baking sheets offer even heating, durability, and attractive style for a relatively accessible price. If you‘re looking to replace some worn-out basics, these are reliable choices.
That said, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Sur La Table‘s website has numerous complaints about slow shipping and unresponsive customer service. Most issues seem to eventually get resolved, and in-store shopping may be a smoother experience. Just be prepared for potential delays and headaches with online orders.
Additionally, while Sur La Table‘s prices are reasonable for the quality, they‘re still not cheap. The knives and cookware are definitely more of an investment than beginner cooks may be ready for. Luckily, Sur La Table‘s frequent sales and their rewards program offer good opportunities to save.
My suggestion? Take advantage of the 60-day return policy and order that chef‘s knife or cookware set you‘ve been eyeing. Put it to work in your own kitchen, and if you don‘t absolutely love it, send it back. Chances are, you‘ll be more than impressed with your new Sur La Table tools and wonder how you ever managed without them.
