
Demeyere Atlantis 12 Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- 7-ply induction bottom remains flat and leads to 30% more efficiency on induction cookers
- Keeps heat within the pot, rather than heating up the surrounding air; speeds up cooking
- Durable, warp resistant, heavy gauge 7-ply stainless steel and copper base for even heating
- Includes heavy lids and drip-free rims for easy pouring
- Made in Belgium with a 30 year warranty; dishwasher safe, although hand-washing recommended
$1,999.95
Debating Between Demeyere Atlantis and All-Clad Copper Core
Cooking has always been one of my greatest passions. There’s something so satisfying about taking raw ingredients and transforming them into a delicious masterpiece. Over the years, I’ve honed my skills in the kitchen and have developed a real chef’s palate. My old worn-out pots and pans just weren’t cutting it anymore – I was ready to invest in a professional-grade cookware set to take my culinary endeavors to the next level.
After doing some research, it seemed like the two frontrunners were the Demeyere Atlantis and All-Clad Copper Core sets. Both are made by reputable companies known for their top-tier cookware. The All-Clad set has a beautiful copper core for superior heating, but comes with a hefty price tag. The Demeyere Atlantis, while still an investment, is a little more affordable. I had a tough choice to make!
To make the best decision, I dug deeper into the key features and differences between these high-end cookware lines. Here’s an overview of what I learned during my quest to find the holy grail of cookware.
Demystifying Demeyere Atlantis Cookware
The Demeyere Atlantis line is crafted in Belgium and features a patented 7-ply construction. The base is made from three layers of stainless steel encapsulating an aluminum core on the bottom and sidewalls. This provides excellent heat distribution and eliminates hot spots.
The cooking surface is made from a thick 5mm layer of 18/10 stainless steel. This stainless steel interior is non-reactive, so you don’t have to worry about foods taking on a metallic taste. It’s also highly resistant to corrosion.
Unlike many sets, Demeyere Atlantis cookware does not have a non-stick coating. Instead, it relies on the rumored “Demsiloy” technology to create a perfectly smooth cooking surface that prevents sticking without the use of Teflon or other coatings that can degrade over time.
Justifying the Investment – Is Demeyere Worth the Price?
With a full cookware set priced between $700-1000, Demeyere Atlantis is clearly an investment purchase. As I debated making the splurge, I came up with a few justifications for the hefty price tag:
- It’s professional-grade – this cookware is used in restaurants and by serious home chefs. The performance and durability matches the price.
- Lifetime guarantee – Demeyere stands behind its cookware and offers a warranty against defects in workmanship. These pots and pans are built to last.
- Even, responsive heating – the 7-ply construction means no hot spots and exact temperature control. Perfect for delicate simmering or searing.
- Timeless designs – unlike trendy brands, the minimalist aesthetic of these pans won’t go out of style anytime soon.
- Easy maintenance – the cookware is dishwasher safe and won’t discolor or degrade with proper care.
When you consider the long lifespan and constant use a good cookware set gets in a home kitchen, the price seems more reasonable. This is not a purchase I plan to make often – investing in Demeyere Atlantis now will last me decades.
How Demeyere Atlantis Stacks Up Against All-Clad
In my search, it seemed like All-Clad was the main competitor and comparable option to the Demeyere Atlantis. All-Clad is known for its American craftsmanship and innovative bonded constructions. Like Demeyere, All-Clad pots and pans have fantastic heating capabilities and can last a lifetime.
Some key differences:
- The All-Clad D5 Brushed line has 5 bonded layers like Demeyere, while the Copper Core has 5 layers plus a copper interior core for the absolute best conductivity and precision.
- All-Clad’s interior cooking surface is stainless steel like Demeyere, but they also offer non-stick options. Demeyere only uses stainless steel.
- All-Clad has a wider range of pan shapes and sizes, though both brands offer all the essential pieces.
- Demeyere claims to have superior even heating with its 7-ply 3.7mm construction compared to All-Clad’s 5-ply 2.5mm.
- All-Clad is produced in the US, while Demeyere Atlantis is handmade in Belgium.
- All-Clad tends to be lower priced than Demeyere, though prices fluctuate. Demeyere’s 7-ply build comes at a premium.
For me, the decision ultimately came down to the craftsmanship and heating performance of the Demeyere Atlantis line. I was drawn to the brand’s European style and reputation for durability. The higher price was justified by the perfect heat distribution I was seeking to step up my cooking.
Key Differences Between Demeyere Industry and Atlantis Lines
In my research, I came across the Demeyere Industry cookware line. This is Demeyere’s 5-ply line, as opposed to the 7-ply Atlantis. The Industry line has many similarities to Atlantis, just with a couple key differences:
- It has a 5 layer construction rather than 7 layers. The base is still tri-ply clad with aluminum and stainless steel.
- The exterior is a brushed finish rather than the unique silvery finish of the Atlantis line.
- It’s thinner at 2.3mm compared to the 3.7mm Atlantis cookware.
- More affordable pricing – a 5-piece Industry set runs ~$500 compared to $700+ for a 5-piece Atlantis set.
The Industry line is still professional-quality cookware. However, I opted for the Atlantis for the superior heating properties promised by the 7-ply build. The extra layers of stainless steel and thickness result in better distribution, less hot spots, and extra durability. For my needs, Atlantis was worth the step up in price. But the Industry line is a great option for a lower budget while maintaining Demeyere’s quality.
Using Demeyere Atlantis on Induction Cooktops
I was thrilled to learn that Demeyere Atlantis cookware works on all cooktops, including induction. The stainless steel and aluminum construction allows the pans to heat up quickly and efficiently on an induction burner.
Induction cooking relies on magnetic qualities – so pots and pans must contain iron in order to work. The stainless steel interior and exterior of Demeyere Atlantis contains enough iron to generate the heat.
The aluminum core also boosts induction compatibility. Aluminum on its own would not work on an induction cooktop. But when sandwiched by stainless steel like in the Atlantis pans, it becomes induction-ready.
This versatility makes Demeyere Atlantis a great investment, even for those with induction ranges. I don’t currently have induction, but I like knowing these durable pots and pans are compatible when I eventually upgrade my stovetop. The even heat distribution will pair nicely with the precise control of induction cooking.
Cookware Included in the 7-Piece Demeyere Atlantis Set
One perk of springing for the complete 7-piece Atlantis cookware set is that it comes with all the essential pans I need on a regular basis. Here’s what’s included:
- 9.4 inch fry pan – perfect for cooking eggs or other solo meals
- 11 inch fry pan – the workhorse skillet for weeknight cooking
- 1.2 quart egg pan – round pan ideal for omelets or fried eggs
- 2.3 quart saucier pan – curved sides make this a saucepan and skillet combo
- 3.2 quart sauté pan – low sides allow for easy stirring and evaporation
- 8.5 quart stockpot – large enough for pasta, soups, or boiling water
- 8 inch sautoir pan – wide bottom distributes heat for braising or pan roasting
Together, these pans provide all the essential shapes and sizes I need for everyday cooking. From simmering sauces to frying an egg, this set has me covered. The versatile saucier pan also lets me sauté and boil in one vessel.
While some other sets come with extras like a grill pan or steamer, these 7 basic pieces are all this home cook needs! I’d rather invest in quality over quantity.
Caring for Atlantis Cookware – Cleaning and Maintenance
One concern when investing in such high-end cookware is keeping it in good condition for the long haul. Luckily, Demeyere Atlantis is low maintenance compared to other premium pans. Here are my tips for cleaning and caring for these pots and pans:
- Let pans cool before washing to prevent warping and thermoshock.
- Handwashing is always safest, but Atlantis is dishwasher safe if needed. Avoid overly harsh detergents.
- Some foods will discolor the stainless steel – this is purely cosmetic and can be removed with baking soda.
- Avoid metal utensils that can scratch the interior cooking surface over time. Use wood or silicone.
- Dry thoroughly after washing to prevent mineral deposits from water spots.
- Apply a small amount of cooking oil after drying for a protective barrier. Helps prevent sticking.
- Deglaze and clean pans after cooking acidic foods to remove traces that can dull the stainless steel.
With just a little extra care, these sturdy pots and pans will stay beautiful and functional for a lifetime! The durable stainless steel is built to handle regular cooking and cleaning.
Oven Safety – Understanding Demeyere’s Max Oven Temp
I rely on my oven just as much as my stovetop, so I wanted cookware that can seamlessly transition from stovetop to oven. Demeyere Atlantis pots and pans are oven-safe up to 500°F.
This high temperature threshold enables a wide range of cooking methods. I can start skillet-searing meats or veggies on the burner and transfer directly into a hot oven to finish cooking. The 18/10 stainless steel construction means these pans withstand high oven heat without warping.
However, Demeyere advises against using temps higher than 500°F. The company claims exposure to excessively high heat can compromise the stainless steel over time. For most cooking, I find 500°F more than adequate, even for heavy roasting. But it’s good to be mindful of that max threshold when finishing off recipes in an extremely hot oven.
Where to Purchase – Best Places to Buy Demeyere Atlantis
Once I decided the Demeyere Atlantis line was the set for me, the next step was actually procuring this premium cookware. Demeyere products are specialty kitchen items not carried at common big box stores. Here are some go-to retailers where shoppers can find Atlantis sets:
- Manufacturer’s website – Demeyere sells Atlantis sets directly through their own e-commerce site. This ensures you’re getting legitimate Demeyere. They also offer great educational resources.
- Sur La Table – This upscale cookware store carries the full range of Demeyere Atlantis pieces for individual purchase or as sets. Helpful sales staff can answer questions.
- Williams-Sonoma – Alongside other luxury brands like Le Creuset, you’ll find selections of Demeyere Atlantis available here. Retail locations and online.
- Cutlery and More – Specialty cookware e-tailer with competitive Demeyere Atlantis prices and wide selections. Reliable shipping.
- Amazon – Convenient access and free shipping, but be sure you’re buying from a reputable seller. Easy returns.
I was thrilled to find multiple retailers that give me access to this top-tier Belgian brand. Supporting specialty stores helps justify the investment in this high-end line.
Analyzing the Benefits of 7-Ply Construction
The 7 layers of Demeyere Atlantis sets it apart from other cookware lines. This innovative construction is key to the performance of these pans. Let’s break down each layer and its benefits:
1. 18/10 Stainless Steel – The food contact layer is non-reactive to prevent sticking without a man-made coating. Easy to clean and maintains sleek appearance over time.
2. 18/10 Stainless Steel – Adds extra durability as the first of 5 exterior layers wrapped around the aluminum core.
3. Aluminum Core – Provides fast, even heating. The core runs up the sides for optimal heat distribution where food contacts walls.
4. 18/10 Stainless Steel – Another layer protecting the aluminum center and reinforcing the pan body.
5. 18/10 Stainless Steel – Fourth exterior layer keeps heat consistent across pan and contains/insulates the aluminum.
6. 18/10 Stainless Steel – Final outer layer ensures structural integrity and gives that brilliant, polished finish Atlantis is known for.
7. Stainless Steel Pour Lips – Spouts are encased in stainless steel for drip-free pouring.
This 7-layer build makes Demeyere Atlantis extra strong, durable, and efficient. The aluminum core paired with all that 18/10 stainless steel delivers the fast, even heating needed for high performance cooking.
Demsiloy – The Non-Stick Secret
Demeyere Atlantis cookware achieves non-stick abilities without using synthetic coatings like Teflon, a feature I really appreciate. Rather than a man-made material, the non-stick effectiveness (called Demsiloy) comes from two natural properties:
1. Ultra-smooth stainless steel – Demeyere polishes the interior until it’s 100% smooth, leaving nowhere for food to cling.
2. Stainless steel’s natural anti-adherence – The chromium in steel makes it naturally resistant to food bonding.
This gives Demeyere pans their non-stick equivalent abilities. Demsiloy provides easy food release for eggs, fish, and sticky foods without worrying about scratching, wearing down, or ingesting a coating over time.
It’s reassuring knowing my cookware has non-stick convenience without concerns over chemicals or durability issues. The stainless steel will keep providing natural stick resistance for the life of the pans.
Built to Last – Understanding Demeyere’s Durability
Durability was a top priority for me in choosing a luxury cookware line – I don’t want to have buyer’s remorse! I was impressed with Demeyere Atlantis pans during my product research. Everything about them seems designed for longevity:
- The 7-ply construction is thicker and more reinforced than many competitors. The extra layers prevent warping or damage.
- The stay-cool cast stainless steel handles are double bolted on. No loose or weak handles.
- Metal lids fit snugly and have a unique bimetal rim that resists denting or warping.
- The polished finish on the exterior makes the cookware more stain and scratch resistant.
- The smooth, thick cooking surface can be revived after discoloration or wear and tear. It won’t degrade like coatings.
- Made in Belgium, renowned for quality manufacturing and materials.
- Lifetime guarantee against defects reflects confidence in longevity.
When cared for properly, Demeyere Atlantis seems poised to become true heirloom cookware passed down through generations. Everything about it is made to perform and endure years of cooking.
Demystifying Dishwasher Use with Demeyere Pans
Many high-end cookware brands advise strictly against dishwashing to protect the interiors. I was pleased to learn that Demeyere Atlantis pots and pans are dishwasher safe, which adds convenience to my busy schedule.
However, Demeyere does recommend hand washing when possible to prolong the life of the cookware. The intense heat and harsh detergents in dishwashers can degrade stainless steel over time. But busy home cooks don’t need to panic if a pan gets tossed in the dishwasher accidentally.
To hand wash, I use warm soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth. A gentle scrub with baking soda removes stuck-on residues. Dry immediately to prevent water spots. Then apply a tiny amount of oil for seasoning.
When absolutely needed, the dishwasher won’t ruin Atlantis pans. But avoiding it whenever I can will help this cookware last decades. For me, the small effort of hand washing is worth preserving my investment.
Warranty Protection on Demeyere Atlantis Cookware
When I make any major kitchen purchase, I look closely at the warranty. With something as pricey as Demeyere Atlantis, I wanted assurance that my investment is protected.
Demeyere offers a lifetime warranty against manufacturing and material defects. This applies to normal household use as long as you care for the cookware properly. If issues arise from the construction or workmanship, Demeyere will repair or replace your cookware.
Keep your receipt or order paperwork to provide proof of purchase. Make sure pans are being used as intended – commercial use would void the warranty. Follow the cleaning methods recommended by Demeyere.
With this lifetime guarantee, I felt confident putting down the high upfront cost. Even quality products sometimes have flaws. But now I have peace of mind that my Atlantis cookware is backed by a solid warranty should issues arise.
Comparing the Heating Abilities of Demeyere Atlantis
For me, wanting professional-style cookware came down to heating performance above all else. I don’t just need durability – I want fast, even heat I can control. This led me to the 7-ply construction Demeyere Atlantis offers.
The aluminum core running from base to walls gives Demeyere Atlantis an advantage over other stainless steel cookware when it comes to conductivity and responsiveness. Aluminum heats quickly but also scorches easily – the surrounding stainless layers prevent that.
Having multiple layers helps avoid hot spots. The heat travels evenly across the pan, so no cold corners or scorching in one area. The 7-ply build enhances this even further compared to 5-ply options.
When I cook with these pans, I immediately notice that precision in temperature control. The pan responds quickly when I adjust the burner, allowing me to perfectly pan-sear and then gently simmer all in the same vessel.
For finicky recipes, or whenever I’m cooking over fickle gas burners, I appreciate cookware that gives me exacting control over heat. Demeyere Atlantis delivers the reactive, even heating needed for restaurant-quality results.
Common Complaints About Demeyere Atlantis
No product is perfect, and reading user reviews revealed a few common complaints about Demeyere Atlantis pans:
- Warping – Some users report pans losing their perfectly flat shape after exposure to high heat. This seems rare but can happen.
- Discoloration – Stainless steel can take on rainbow hues after cooking acids, salts, soy sauce, etc. Cosmetic-only but annoying.
- Prone to sticking – Occasional reports of food sticking, especially before the pans are broken in and seasoned.
- Weight – Similar to most clad cookware, these pans are fairly heavy, especially when full. Difficult for some users to lift and handle.
- Price – The ultra-premium price tags on Atlantis pans and sets are simply unaffordable for many home cooks.
However, most of these seem like isolated incidents and avoidable with proper use and care. Proper preheating and not maxing out oven temps prevents warping. Overall, consumer love for Demeyere Atlantis seems to outweigh any drawbacks for those willing to splurge.
Preventing Sticking with Demeyere Atlantis Pans
While Demeyere Atlantis is designed to provide a non-stick cooking experience without using actual non-stick coatings, food may still occasionally stick, especially when pans are brand new. Here are my best tips for preventing stubborn sticking or residues:
- Slow preheating – Bring pans to temperature gradually to allow the metal to expand smoothly. Avoid shocking pans with sudden high heat.
- Proper oil heating – Fully heat oil before adding food. The oil will help prevent sticking best when it’s already shimmering.
- Ample oil/fat – Don’t skimp on fats – a generous amount of olive oil or butter helps food release better.
- Lower heat for eggs – Use medium-low heat and plenty of butter for foolproof fried or scrambled eggs.
- Deglaze – After cooking, deglaze the pan with a little wine or broth while hot to dissolve any cooked-on bits.
- Clean thoroughly – Use baking soda or non-abrasive scrubbers to remove discoloration or residues without damaging the interior.
With some trial and error, I’ve found these tips really help me avoid tacky pancakes or stuck chicken breasts. A little technique adjustment is all it takes to master non-stick stainless steel cookware.
Do Professional Chefs Use Demeyere?
As I decided whether Demeyere Atlantis was worth the investment, I paid attention to what the pros use. It seems Demeyere is the top choice of many celebrity chefs and cooking professionals.
Chefs like Alain Ducasse, Thomas Keller, and Heston Blumenthal tout Demeyere as their cookware of choice at home and at their acclaimed restaurants.
The reason? Demeyere allows chefs to achieve restaurant-quality results at home. The unrivaled heating capabilities provide the control professional chefs demand. The durability withstands the rigor of daily cooking.
Demeyere’s reputation for being the choice of famous chefs gave me confidence that investing in this line was right for my connoisseur cooking. While I’m no Michelin-starred chef, I want cookware that can keep up with my discerning palate.
If Demeyere Atlantis performs for the best in the culinary world, I’m convinced it will take my own cooking to restaurant-caliber heights. It’s like cooking with the same pots used in the world’s best kitchens.
High-Heat Cooking Safety with Demeyere Pans
High heat cooking methods like searing require thick, sturdy cookware that retains heat. I sometimes like to cook with intense heat to get a good crust on meats, so I needed to know if Demeyere Atlantis can handle the high temps.
The 7-ply stainless steel build means these pans have no problem withstanding high burner heat. Searing, frying, and other high-heat cooking won’t damage the cookware at all. The 18/10 stainless steel can handle up to 500°F oven temps.
The key is making sure your stovetop burners don’t exceed the max capacity of your cookware. Watch that flames don’t lick up the sides of the pan. Bring pans to temp gradually so the aluminum core heats evenly.
Use a fat like oil when cooking over high heat – it will help regulate the pan temp and prevent scorching or uneven hot spots.
With reasonable care, Demeyere Atlantis provides the ideal cookware for intense stove-to-oven cooking methods. The professional-grade construction means not having to sacrifice performance for durability.
Demeyere Frying Pans vs. Saucier Pans – What’s the Difference?
When outfitting my kitchen with Demeyere Atlantis cookware, I noticed they offer both frying pans and unique saucier pans. What’s the difference, and which is better?
Frying pans have straight vertical sides and are optimized for searing, frying, and sautéing foods with ample surface contact. The flat bottoms allow you to flip or slide foods easily. Great for traditional omelets, pancakes, grilled cheeses, etc.
Saucier pans have rounded, curved sides inspired by traditional French pans. The walls facilitate whisking and stirring sauces or liquids. The sloped walls let steam escape to intensify flavors. The shape mimics a saucepan and skillet in one vessel.
I find myself reaching for the Demeyere saucier pan for its versatility – I can start recipes on the stovetop and transfer to the oven. The sloped sides are also easier to clean. However, the traditional frying pan shape excels when you need maximum browning surface.
For me, having both available covers all my sautéing and pan sauce needs. But the unique saucier pan sees the most action for how well it transitions from stovetop to oven. I use the frying pan for select recipes that demand intense direct heat over a flat surface. Together, they’re a dynamic duo in my Demeyere collection.
The Thrill of Cooking with Demeyere Atlantis
My journey to find the holy grail of cookware led me to Demeyere Atlantis – a line truly in a league of its own. While the price caused some initial hesitation, the unrivaled performance, heating precision, and lifetime durability have made it one of my all-time best kitchen purchases.
Now when I cook, I feel like a pro. The responsiveness of the 7-ply material gives me exact control to execute recipes perfectly. Searing steaks develop that crave-worthy crust without overcooking internally. Fragile fish gently poaches without breaking apart. Fruit preserves simmer to the ideal syrupy consistency.
I’m still learning the nuances of how these premium pans channel heat. But the results already have me addicted. My food has never tasted better. Now when I serve dinner to guests, I can confidently say it was prepared in world-class cookware.
The Demeyere Atlantis line has elevated my culinary skills and provided a cooking experience I look forward to each night. I have no doubt this cookware will continue delivering for decades to come. While the cost was high at first, it’s a small price for the joy I feel cooking with Belgian perfection in my kitchen every single day.