The kitchen is a battleground for space. Whether you live in a tiny apartment or a sprawling home, the quest for efficient tools that don’t clutter countertops is real. That’s where Our Place’s Always Pan 2.0 enters the picture. Launched as an update to their viral original, this pan promises to replace a cabinet full of cookware. But does it deliver? After a month of exclusive testing, here’s a breakdown of what makes this pan stand out—and where it falls short.
What Is Our Place, and Why Does It Matter?
Our Place emerged in 2019 with a simple mission: to streamline home cooking with high-quality, space-saving cookware. Founded by Shiza Shahid and Amir Tehrani, the brand quickly gained traction through social media, offering aesthetically pleasing, non-toxic alternatives to traditional kitchen tools. The key is that they’re addressing a real need. Modern kitchens are often small, and consumers want fewer, more versatile items rather than a drawer full of single-use gadgets. This trend reflects a broader shift towards minimalist living and conscious consumerism.
The Always Pan 2.0: What It Offers
The Always Pan 2.0 builds on the success of its predecessor, aiming to be the one pan you reach for first. It boasts a non-toxic ceramic nonstick coating, capable of handling 10 different cooking tasks: braising, searing, steaming, sautéing, frying, boiling, baking, roasting, and serving. The updated version is also oven-safe up to 450°F.
Each pan comes with a modular lid, a built-in spoon rest in the handle, and a beechwood spatula. A steamer basket/colander is included. At $135, the question is whether the convenience justifies the price.
Rigorous Testing: From Fried Eggs to Chicken Thighs
To put the Always Pan 2.0 to the test, we ran it through a series of real-world scenarios:
- The Fried Egg Test: A classic measure of nonstick performance. Eggs slid out cleanly, proving the coating is effective.
- Cheese Frico Challenge: Piles of shredded cheddar melted and lifted effortlessly, further validating the nonstick claims.
- Chicken Thigh Sear & Bake: The pan browned chicken thighs well, but the nonstick surface prevented the skin from getting truly crispy.
- Cleanup Ease: Warm water and soap removed all residue with minimal effort, confirming its low-maintenance design.
Performance Breakdown: The Good, the Bad, and the Sticky
The Always Pan 2.0 excels at nonstick cooking. Foods release effortlessly, making it ideal for delicate dishes like eggs and cheese. The pan’s versatility is also impressive—it handles boiling pasta, sautéing vegetables, and even baking with ease.
However, the nonstick surface has its limits. While it browns food, it won’t deliver the same level of sear as a stainless steel or cast iron skillet. The lack of friction prevents that deep caramelization that many cooks crave. Furthermore, the pan’s depth can be restrictive for larger portions, like spaghetti, making it hard to stir without breaking noodles.
Cleanup is a breeze, but handwashing is recommended to preserve the coating. Dishwashers and abrasive sponges will degrade the ceramic over time.
Who Is This Pan For?
The Always Pan 2.0 shines for cooks with limited space or those who want a streamlined kitchen setup. It’s perfect for small apartments, college dorms, or anyone looking to simplify their cookware collection. The eco-conscious will also appreciate Our Place’s recycling program.
However, serious cooks who prioritize high-heat searing or require large-capacity pots may find it limiting. This pan is an excellent all-rounder, but it won’t replace specialized tools for every task.
Where to Buy and Current Deals
You can purchase the Always Pan 2.0 directly from Our Place’s website or at their brick-and-mortar store in Los Angeles. As of today, the site is running a holiday sale with discounts up to 46% off. Signing up for the mailing list grants early access to deals and launches.
The Verdict: Is It Worth the Hype?
At $135, the Always Pan 2.0 is a solid investment for most home cooks. Its non-toxic coating, versatility, and space-saving design make it a valuable addition to any kitchen. Just remember that it won’t replace every specialized tool—a cast iron or stainless steel skillet is still essential for achieving a perfect sear.
Ultimately, the Always Pan 2.0 delivers on its promise of simplifying cooking without compromising quality. It’s a smart, stylish, and practical solution for those who want less clutter and more convenience in the kitchen.
