Cookware. Were should I start?

I've moved out on my own recently, and have a rather basic assortment of pots and pans. I was wondering if any of you savvy cooks out there had any recommendations, anything from good brands, to basics things to look for in good cookware. Money isn't a huge concern of mine, but I think we can all appreciate good value ^^;

Depends on do you want to show off your stuff or just something to cook well.


Stainless steel with copper bottoms are good. Depending on the store a full 10 piece is 99$ to 1500$. If your willing go to a restaurant supply shop and get what restaurants get Steel... pricey. Your just cooking for yourself then you need

10" and 12" fry pans.
2-qt. and 4-qt. saucepans
4 1/2-qt. sauté pan
8-qt. stockpot or
7-qt. tall stockpot with pasta insert.

I do recommended an enamel baking dishes, Cast iron dutch oven and skillet... comal with a lip is nice.

A good set of knives, with a decent sharpener, a griddle for pancakes/eggs/grilled cheese, spatulas. Get things that match what you like to cook. If I said get a wok, but you don't like to make food with it, it sucks if you do. Get stuff that makes sense.