Buying cookware sounds simple until you find yourself staring at two classics. One shines as it belongs in a fancy restaurant. The other looks like it has been cooking family recipes for years.

So, which one deserves a place in your kitchen? The answer depends on the kind of cook you are. Do you enjoy quick weekday meals with easy clean up? Or do you love slow-cooked comfort food that fills the house with amazing aromas? Let's settle the great cookware debate.

First impressions count

Looks are not everything, but they do make a difference in the kitchen. Stainless steel is all about clean style. A stainless steel pan has a polished finish that instantly makes any kitchen look smart. It fits right into modern homes and professional kitchens. It is light, shiny and always ready for the next meal.

Cast iron has timeless charm. Cast iron is the complete opposite. It is dark, heavy and full of character. Every mark tells a story, and a well-seasoned pan only gets better with age.