I mean, there are a bunch of American cast iron companies still making really good stuff, most are just kinda pricy, like 100 bucks for a skillet. Lodge is just notable for being super cheap, 20 bucks for a skillet, and having a very crude finish compared to the others.
But if you have an orbital sander, just get a lodge, spend a few minutes smoothing it out, throw it in the oven on self cleaning mode, then season it with grapeseed oil a few times.
I mean, there are a bunch of American cast iron companies still making really good stuff, most are just kinda pricy, like 100 bucks for a skillet. Lodge is just notable for being super cheap, 20 bucks for a skillet, and having a very crude finish compared to the others.
I absolutely love my Smithy pans.
But if you have an orbital sander, just get a lodge, spend a few minutes smoothing it out, throw it in the oven on self cleaning mode, then season it with grapeseed oil a few times.