I have been using an MSR Whisperlite for about 10 years now, and it has never let me down. It burns very hot, will boil quickly, it is fuel efficient, easy to use, and durable. The only down side is that simmering is somewhat more difficult, but not bad once you get it down, just put very little pressure in the fuel bottle. MSR also makes great cookware sets. They are all good but it depends on the amount of money you want to spend.

You can also go with a propane/butane stove like an MSR pocket rocket or something similar (I am just familiar with MSR not trying to be biased). The propane stoves are easier to use and lighter, but finding fuel can be more difficult, and then you have to throw the spent fuel containers away.

For all around use, a liquid fuel stove is hard to beat.