What Are French Cookware Brands, And Are They Better?

The French have a very well known reputation for producing exquisite and incredibly sophisticated foods and I would say that reputation translates to much of the French cookware brands also. But just because something is “French” does that mean it is better? Do you think something that is “French” or any other nationality that would mean it is better or worse than another brand? Sure, there are stereotypes and opinions built off experiences with products from a specific country, like China for example. If you were of the opinion that products made in China are of less quality than those made in France, would you be shocked to find out that some of the French brands are actually made in China for those French companies? Below you will find a list of 8 of the most well known (in America) French cookware brands in along with information about their products so you can evaluate each one.

Best Known French Cookware Brands

Cristel Cookware

CRISTEL is a renowned French brand that specializes in manufacturing high-quality cookware. With a focus on providing exceptional cooking experiences, CRISTEL’s cookware is loved by both professionals and cooking enthusiasts alike. All their products are meticulously crafted in their factory in Burgundy, France, ensuring that they meet the strict standards of the Origine France Guarantee. By controlling the entire manufacturing process, CRISTEL can deliver top-notch cookware that guarantees durability and culinary success.

One of the distinguishing features of CRISTEL cookware is its use of the finest stainless-steel materials. This choice not only ensures excellent performance but also allows the brand to offer a limited lifetime warranty on all their stainless-steel products. Whether you’re cooking, simmering, grilling, or baking, CRISTEL’s cookware is designed to make your time in the kitchen more comfortable and enjoyable.

CRISTEL understands that different cuisines require specific cookware, which is why they have developed expansive product lines suitable for various culinary styles. From premium frying pans and saucepans to stockpots, oven dishes, and steamers, CRISTEL caters to the demands of all types of cooks. Professionals in the culinary industry have long appreciated CRISTEL’s expertise, and now individuals can also experience the same level of craftsmanship and culinary excellence.

By choosing CRISTEL, you not only gain access to cookware manufactured with exceptional know-how but also to a brand that prioritizes longevity and customer satisfaction. Their commitment to using only the highest-quality materials ensures that their products will continue to serve you for years to come. With CRISTEL, you can take your cooking to the next level and enjoy the pleasures of a professional kitchen.

>> See Cristel Cookware Here

de Buyer Cookware

de Buyer was founded in 1830 and has over 3000 cookware and kitchen items in the product catalog ranging  from copper cookware to silicone molds and other gadgets like mandolins. While not being very well known in the US, their products are generally regarded with high quality by those who know about de Buyer. Many of their products are made in France, although there are just so many I can’t possibly check each one.

>> See de Buyer Cookware Here

E. Dehillerin Cookware

E. Dehillerin are known as an iconic cookware shop in Paris, where they sell hand-crafted tinned copper cookware among other kitchen items. While shopping for French cookware in Paris is definitely something most foodies would consider a fantastic time, it unfortunately is not a reality for most of us. Luckily E. Dehillerin have an online shop and their products are also occasionally on eBay.

>> See E. Dehillerin Cookware Here

Emile Henry Cookware

Since 1850, Emile Henry cookware are manufactured in the Burgundy region of France, known for some exceptional wines. The clay and soil of the region contribute to these wines’ flavor and they also contribute to the Emile Henry cookware as the clay and soils from Burgundy are utilized to create Emile Henry ceramic cookware and bakeware.

>> See Emile Henry Cookware

Le Creuset Cookware

Le Creuset is probably the most well known brand of French cookware in America and can be seen in many shops around the country along with a large number of places online. They were established in 1925 in Fresnoy-le-Grand, France which was along a trade route for the raw materials they needed to manufacture their enamel coated cast-iron cookware. “Creuset” in French means cauldron where liquid cast iron was heated to a liquid state to create their products. Each piece of cast iron cookware is created with 2 molds created from sand to form the shape of the cookware, and then the molds are destroyed so each piece is unique. While most people will picture their signature enameled cast iron cookware, Le Creuset is now a multi-national company that manufactures many other products including stainless steel cookware sets and many other cooking tools. As such, not all their products are manufactured in France.

>> See Le Creuset Cookware Here

Matfer Bourgeat Cookware

Matfer Bourgeat began 200 years ago in France and is a moderately sized company with around 1000 employees which primarily focuses on creating products for commercial kitchens such as restaurants, hotels and other food service industries. Their cookware and other items are available to the general public but because of their focus toward the food service industry, their brand is not well known among most home cooks. They offer cookware made from copper, stainless steel, black steel cast iron and ceramic and many other traditional kitchen tools and specialty items.

>> See Matfer Bourgeat Cookware Here

Mauviel Cookware

Mauviel was established in 1830 in a village named Villedieu-les-Poêles, known as “the city of copper” in the Normandy region of France. They are well known by professional chefs. Emile Henry and Mauviel are somehow part of the same company although I don’t know which owns which.

>> See Mauviel Cookware Here

Staub Cookware

Staub was founded in Alsace, France in 1974 but is now owned by J.A. Henckels and their cast iron cookware is still manufactured in France. Their cast iron cookware are manufactured using one-time-use molds similar to Le Creuset. They claim better moisture retention while cooking compared to competitors and “self-basting spikes on the lid create a rain-forest effect evenly returning juices back onto food.” For their ceramic line a higher quality ceramic that is less porous, although their ceramic cookware is made in China.

>> See Staub Cookware Here

Why is using high quality cookware important?

High-quality cookware plays a pivotal role in achieving successful cooking. Irrespective of our preferences in the kitchen, we all desire our recipes to turn out delicious. Choosing cookware of exceptional quality is essential in order to meet this expectation. When it comes to the finest cookware, French-made products are considered the industry standard. With over three decades of experience, CRISTEL has established itself as the leading French removable handle cookware company, catering to both professionals and individuals. Opting for cookware that is 100% made in France ensures that you are investing in high-quality products. At CRISTEL, all our cookware is meticulously manufactured in our factory located in Burgundy, France, which is accredited by the Origine France Guarantee. This accreditation highlights our commitment to maintaining control over the entire manufacturing process, allowing us to deliver the best product quality to our customers. Moreover, our dedication to using only the finest stainless-steel materials ensures that our cookware is built to last. In fact, we are so confident in the longevity of our stainless-steel products that we offer a limited lifetime warranty on all of them. In short, high-quality cookware is crucial in achieving successful cooking as it guarantees durability, optimal performance, and the best possible cooking experience.