Alessi, the beloved Italian purveyor of high-style metal household objects-pots and pans, cutlery and cheese graters, corkscrews and fly swatters-has opened a flagship store here. Not as well known: The company also has a full line of kitchens, complete with cabinets, cooktops, and sinks, one of which, the Cucina Agreste (shown here), is on display at the store. Alessi Chicago, 611 N. State St., 312-274-6500; alessi.com

Quintessential Alessi: the sleek Colombina creamer and sugar bowl on a black melamine; Mami casserole pot atop the Tripod trive.