Posts Tagged ‘gift guide’


2012 Holiday Gift Guide for Food Lovers

2012 Gift Guide for Food Lovers.jpg

Welcome to the third annual Holiday Gift Guide for Food Lovers! I can’t even believe it’s been three years now now that I’ve been writing these. And I can safely say that everything on year one’s list and year two’s list still makes a perfectly fabulous gift day (so long as they’re still on sale), so check out those guides, too, for some extra inspiration. This is one of my very favorite posts to write because it’s basically taking things I love and swoon over and sharing them with you. I say the gifts are for “food lovers” and by that I mean many things: people who enjoy eating, people who enjoy cooking, and people who just enjoy setting a pretty table. Basically, I think there’s something for everyone on this list. Probably even food haters (who are you and why??).

It’s Friday, so this weekend is the perfect time to get your shopping on! Enjoy :)

Gold Chevron Tray:

I’ve had this pinned on Pinterest for a while now. I’m generally a pretty big fan of chevron and this gold chevron tray ($98) is just stunning. I might serve things on it from time to time, but I’d totally keep it out on display all year round. Swoon.

Gold Chevron Tray.jpg

Chef’s Planet Measuring Colander:

This is one of those “why didn’t I think of that?” products. So incredibly simple, but useful. A Measuring Colander is just what it sounds like; a colander that also measures. Sometimes I find myself putting ingredients into a measuring cup AND trying to rinse them in it. Doesn’t work and this product would make life so much easier. Obvious, but awesome. I love gifts like that.

Chef's Planet Measuring Cups.jpeg

Vino to Go:

I mean, best idea ever? Vino to Go ($16) is, well, the best idea ever. Especially for someone like me who spills wine every chance she gets. I want to buy a million of these and throw a party and give them to everyone so they can carry a plate of food and their wine and not spill it everywhere. I know these are selling like hotcakes and their website is currently down… So, keep your eye on them and snatch them up when you can.

Vino to Go.jpg

The Smitten Kitchen Cookbook:

It’s the must-have cookbook of the year! And I have a feeling lots of people have The Smitten Kitchen Cookbook ($19.75) on their holiday list. Deb Perelman is just the best and her blog is the best and now her book will be the best. I mean, LOOK at that cover. I already want to make every single recipe. I had the opportunity to see Deb speak in Boston last week and yup, she’s just as fabulous in person as she is on her blog. In case you were wondering.

Also, this book lays flat open on your kitchen counter, making it much easier to cook with.

Smitten Kitchen Cookbook.jpg

Consider the Fork:

And the spoon and plates and all that. Basically the history of all the things we use each and every day, but never really think about. I’ve been intrigued with Consider the Fork ($16.07) since I first heard about it and think it’s the perfect food lover’s gift!

Consider the Fork.jpg

Offset Spoons:

For all those times you’re cooking and want to take a little taste. And a regular spoon just doesn’t cut it. Offset spoons ($24 for a set of 3) to the rescue. And no, I didn’t include this in my guide because Michael Ruhlman recommended them. Though I do trust him a huge deal.

Offset Spoons.jpg

Pop-Print Measuring Spoons:

If you’re ever looking for super fun, pretty kitchen gear, go to Anthropologie. I usually love everything in their home section, no matter how impractical it may be. I also happen to have a small measuring spoon addiction, so these Pop-Print Measuring Spoons ($18) are totally and directly up my alley. Beautiful! And I think they make the perfect gifty item, too.

Pop-Print Measuring Spoons.jpeg

Artisan Mini Salt Seller:

These mini salt sellers ($10-$12) are also from Anthropologie and also make the perfect little gift. Not enough people use salt sellers these days. And we should all be aiming to change that. Starting with these. I can’t get over the tiny spoons.

Mini Salt Seller.jpg

Kuhn Rikon Paring Knives:

I’m a knife fan as it is. Love a good knife. But when I saw this set of three Kuhn Rikon Paring Knives ($33) with polka dots, I about died. I’m not even a big fan of polka dots, but I’m still in love with these. Talk about making cooking (and chopping veggies!) a little bit more fun.

Kuhn Rikon Mini Paring Knife.jpg

Matte Porcelain Cups:

I don’t drink enough water and it’s mainly because I’m bored by it. But water in one of these matte porcelain cups ($25) from Leif? I’d drink a whole lot more. Sometimes it’s something as simple as a pretty color that makes you improve your life.

Leif Porcelain Cups.jpg

Mini Carafes:

I saw these adorable mini carafes ($85 for 6) in the Neiman Marcus holiday gift guide. You know, the one that has all kinds of ridiculousness (and awesomeness) in it. But these are actually affordable and practical. Well, they’re supposedly mini carafes, but I’d totally just use the to serve cocktails in. Nothing wrong with that, right? Gifts like these can be super fun with a bottle of liquor and some funky straws.

Mini Carafes.jpg

Neon Wood Dishes:

Because neon is super in. And these neon wood bowls ($180 for a set of four) are super fun. Sure, they’re a little pricey, but they’re handmade and totally original and awesome.

Neon Wood Bowls.jpg

Castle Peak Bouquet Vase by Kate Spade:

I just think this modern white Kate Spade vase ($80) is the prettiest and would make anyone happy to receive it as a gift. I envision it filled with pretty purple flowers.

Castle Peak Bouquet Vase.jpeg

Pretty Cupcake Liners:

If you have a baker in your life, baking supplies are always welcome gifts. And cupcake papers are some of the best. Especially when they’re as pretty as these. I’m obsessed with pretty much everything chevron, so I’m a fan of these Chevron Cupcake Liners ($4.99 for 60) from The Bakers Confections.

Chevron Cupcake Liners.jpg

And how lovely are these Houndstooth Cupcake Liners ($3.50 for 50) from Bake It Pretty?

Houndstooth Cupcake Liners.jpg

Infrared Thermometer with Laser:

I actually spotted this in a Cooking Light magazine gift guide and immediately realized it’s the perfect gift for anyone who loves to cook. Especially if you’re like me and you have serious thermometer issues whenever it comes to making candy or doughnuts or anything that requires something in a pot to be at a certain temperature. With the Kintrex Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer with Laser Targeting ($46.56), you can simply point the thermometer near whatever you’re cooking and it will register the temperature in seconds. You can also use this thermometer for all kinds of other things, but I’m really just concerned with the cooking part. This has pretty awesome reviews on Amazon and for the price, you can’t beat it.

Laser Thermometer.jpg

Kate Spade Business Car Holder:

Perhaps not for all food lovers. But I’m pretty sure all food bloggers can appreciate this business card holder from Kate Spade. I know this is certainly going on my holiday wish list as I desperately need a business card holder for both my work cards and my blog cards. Blog cards definitely belong in this case.

Kate Spade Business Card Holder.jpg

Bliss Blood Orange and White Pepper Body Wash and Bath Soap:

Blood oranges are heaven-sent and this Blood Orange and White Pepper Body Wash ($18) likely smells just as good as blood orange tastes. No foodie would be without a fun smelling body wash and this one is going to be a new favorite.

Blood Orange and White Pepper Soap.jpg

Julia Child Print:

I don’t have a whole lot of wall space in my kitchen, but this is one print ($15) I knew I had to have hanging up. Because it’s Julia Child. And because the saying is so, so true.

Julia Child Print.jpg

Cheese Making Kit:

Making your own cheese is a super fun activity and perfect for a cold winter weekend. There are a few specialized products you need, so it’s worth it to buy a cheese making kit for your first time. Ricki’s is one of the best and you won’t believe the awesome cheese you can make with it!

Cheese Making Kit.jpg

Craft Coffee Subscription:

This is one gift that is definitely on my wish list. A subscription to Craft Coffee. Basically you get the world’s best coffee, curated by industry experts,  delivered right to your doorstep. They have different plans, but if you get a year’s subscription, it’s $19.99/month and you get 4 oz. from three different roasters every month. It sounds silly, but I fully believe that coffee makes my life better. The smell makes me happy, I feel joy when I wake up to a nice hot cup in the winter, and I love drinking coffee with my husband on a lazy Saturday morning. And with Craft Coffee, you can have GOOD, high-quality coffee whenever you want.

Craft Coffee.jpg

Honeymaker Mead:

I’m a big fan of alcohol as a gift as long as it’s something nice and preferably in a pretty bottle. Honeymaker Mead ($14.00+) from Maine Mead Works fits the bill as it’s definitely unique and something your gift recipient probably doesn’t get every day. Plus it comes in a pretty bottle and there are plenty of fun varieties– Cranberry is perfect for the holidays.

Cranberry Mead.png

Colavita Olive Oil:

I think I put olive oil on my list every year, because it’s such an awesome gift and if you’re into food, you’ll most likely love a gift of olive oil. There are tons of fancy artisan oils you can buy, but this year I’m obsessed with Colavita Extra Virgin Olive Oils. They’re priced well, they’re exceptionally good, and they can be used in pretty much anything. I’m a fan of the Roasted Garlic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, but I also think it would be fun to give the World Collection 4-Pack as a gift and do a little tasting party. It comes with a bottle of Mediterranean, Australian, Greek, and Argentinian extra virgin olive oils.

Colavita Olive Oil.jpg

I hope you enjoyed this year’s selection of gifts for food lovers and maybe even found something for somebody on your list!

Have you started your holiday shopping yet? What’s the best gift you’ve bought so far?

Happy Shopping!

[Sues]

2011 Holiday Gift Guide for Food Lovers

It’s that time again! Time to get your holiday shopping on. If you’re anything like me, you have a lot of culinary gifts on your wish list (OK, so I’m basically just calling our wedding registry my Christmas list!). And chances are your friends and family wouldn’t mind a few foodie inspired gifts, too. After looking over my 2010 guide, I realize that almost all of my gift selections are absolutely timeless and they pretty much ALL still apply. So, definitely check last year’s gift guide out. It was packed with lots of basics and many unique gift ideas, too. In the meantime, here are several more holiday gift ideas for food lovers in 2011! They’re in no particular order; but I’m hoping you’ll be able to find at least a few items that will make good gifts for you to give this year… Or to ask for yourself :)

Owl Measuring Cups from West Elm:

File these Owl Measuring Cups ($19 for a set) under “kitchen essentials” for everyone in the world. I mean, can you think of anyone who wouldn’t be thrilled to measure out flour with these. Also, file these under things that are going on my Christmas list ASAP. Also, file under why the heck does West Elm not have a wedding registry option?!

Owl-Measuring-Cups.jpg

Recycled Glass Containers with Cork Lids from West Elm:

For any chef that strives to be more organized (read: everyone), these Recycled Glass Jars with Cork Lids ($14-24) are a must. Sure, they seem like a super simple gift, but they can make a world of a difference in the kitchen. Bonus points if you fill them up with your favorite grains and nuts before gifting them, allowing your gift recipient to try something new and be super organized.

Glass-Containers.jpg

Sunburst Tea Towel from West Elm:

Yes, it’s just one tea towel. And yes, it’s a pretty pricey tea towel at that, but this Sunburst Tea Towel from West Elm ($9) is a great add-on for any gift that’s not quite complete. Perhaps you have a few dollars left over and want to make your gift really impress. This tea towel will do the trick. Heck, I’d be thrilled if someone gave me this tea towel and only this tea towel. And I never say heck. I love Sunburst, but West Elm has lots of other fun patterns, too.

Holiday-Guide-Tea-Towel.jpg

Illustrated Tidbit Plates from Kate Spade:

There are few designers that I’m really truly loyal to and Kate Spade is one. Not only do they make what I consider some of the most fabulous handbags, but they also have some pretty stunning home decor. I’m especially loving these Illustrated Tidbit Plates ($50 for a set of 4). I think they’re absolutely adorable and something most people probably wouldn’t buy for themselves. They make me want to immediately whip up some finger foods and invite some girlfriends over. But I’d also be very tempted to hang these on my wall.

Gift-Guide-Kate-Spade-Plate.jpg

Molecular Gastronomy Kit from Think Geek:

This is what you get the cook who has everything… But still wants more. I mean, molecular gastronomy is SO in right now, but it’s nothing most of us home cooks really contemplate much. Until now. This Molecular Cuisine Starter Kit ($79.99) has everything you need to get started (that you didn’t know you needed to get started), including 50 individually proportioned chemicals, essential tools, and a DVD. This is awesome.

Molecular-Gastronomy-Kit.jpg

Digital Spoon Scale:

Now, I can’t speak to the functionality of this, but I have to admit it’s a pretty incredible idea. You want to measure your flour with a measuring cup, but you also want to weigh it, right? Well, this Digital Spoon Scale from Admetior ($19.99 from Bed, Bath, and Beyond) does both! This is the perfect gift for any bakers in your life.
Digital-Spoon-Scale.jpg

Obol, the Never-Soggy Cereal Bowl from Brookstone:

OCD? Take forever to eat a bowl of cereal? Or just like to keep your food compartmentalized? This bowl is perfect! Obol, the Never-Soggy Cereal Bowl from Brookstone ($19.99) keeps your cereal away from your milk, until you’re ready to combine them. Then again, you could also serve up a nice bowl of clam chowder and oyster crackers. Or chips and salsa. Or milk and cookies. The options are endless. And this bowl, which comes in tons of colors, is pretty fabulous.

Screen Shot 2011-11-29 at 9.46.02 PM.png

Willowherb Rolling Pin from Anthropologie:

I roll a lot of dough. Seriously. I have a flatbread-making problem and I’m in love with making bread, pastries, and more. Plus, I’m obsessed with the idea of perfecting the chocolate croissant. So, I think a pretty rolling pin is needed. Actually, I think it’ s pretty much a requirement of anyone who does much baking. These are the things that make spending time in the kitchen even happier. This Willowherb Rolling Pin from Anthropologie ($18) is one of my favorites because of the cheery colors and Scandinavian print.

Screen Shot 2011-12-01 at 9.04.50 PM.png

And you probably need the matching muffin pan ($36), too, yes? Um, I mean your gift recipient will need the matching muffin pan.

Screen Shot 2011-12-01 at 9.05.38 PM.png

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream:

What do you get for the person who has everything? Ice cream. And from what I’ve heard, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream is the top of the line amazing. If you know someone who’s been crying themselves to sleep at night because Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream isn’t available where they live, you will make their holidays very happy. Jeni’s website allows you to purchase and ship their ice cream. I think this Sublime Holiday Collection ($70) is perfect as it includes Cumin and Honey Butterscotch Cake, Smoked Tea and Plum Pudding, Vanilla Cedar Wood, The Black Forest, Black Currant Lambic Sorbet, and Frankincense and Almond Cake flavors. Can you say unique?

Gift-Guide-Ice-Cream.jpg

Of course, you could also pair it with the Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream cookbook ($13.61). I have this and it’s an insanely beautiful cookbook with the most unique ice cream recipes ever.

Holiday-Guide-Jenis-Splendid-Ice-Cream.jpg

Black Pepper Body Wash from Molton Brown:

So, it’s not really food. And it sounds a little odd. But I’ve heard absolutely amazing things about Molton Brown’s Black Pepper Body Wash ($28). Yes, it’s body wash that is made with black pepper oil. But something tells me if you’re a food lover, you’re a fan of black pepper. It will help relax your muscles, remove toxins, and wake you right up. The body wash is unisex, so it makes the perfect gift for everyone in your life.

Gift-Guide-Black-Pepper-Bodywash.jpg

Eat Boutique Gift Box:

Want to make your gift recipients swoon? Of course you do! Eat Boutique is the perfect way. The incredible Maggie (a blogging friend in real life!) started Eat Boutique for food lovers to celebrate local and handmade foods. Not only can you purchase her gift boxes to give as gifts (prices vary), but you can even purchase a subscription, which means your recipient will get a handmade food gift box every month. Maggie sent us the Holiday Breakfast Box and I’m absolutely in love with it. It has six local products (New Harvest Coffee, Whimsy and Spice Honey Lavender Biscotti, Lark Fine FOod Teacakes, Sweet Brook Farm Grade A Maple Syrup, Quince and Apple Orange Marmalade w/ Lemons, and Cown and Crumb Granola). We’ll be posting more about Eat Boutique soon, but for now, you should know the gift boxes make the perfect totally fun, unique gift for any food lover. Plus, the presentation is BEAUTIFUL!

IMG_3230.JPG

Meat T-Shirts from Wooster Meats:

I mean, does it get any better than a t-shirt proclaiming your love for Italian meats? I don’t think so. Wooster Meats offers meat t-shirts ($25) for everyone in your life. Well, the meat-eaters anyway. Particularly the ones who love Italian meats like prosciutto and soppressata. But they even have a Kosher matzo ball soup tee!
Gift-Guide-Soppressata-Tee.jpeg

Chalkboard Spice Rack from Etsy:

Maybe it’s not the most practical thing in the world, but this Chalkboard Spice Rack from Etsy shop Salt City Spice ($23) sure is cute. Spices are beautiful and it’s fun to display them. Plus, this chalkboard would be perfect to write your nightly dinner menu on, adding character to any kitchen.
Gift-Guide-Spice-Chalkboard.jpg

Core Bamboo Bowls:

These Core Bamboo Bowls ($12-$45) are my new obsession and you’ll probably see them making multiple appearances on the blog in the future. They’re fun, they’re beautiful, and they can really jazz up any table or meal. In fact, I truly believe these bowls could make even a boring romaine lettuce salad more exciting. Try it. Plus, they come in so many colors, you can definitely find one (or four) for everyone on your gift list.

Screen Shot 2011-12-01 at 10.02.00 PM.png

Bodum Pavina Double-Wall Thermo Glasses:

I’ve talked about these glasses before, but I’m saying it again. Bodum’s Pavina Double-Wall Thermo Glasses ($17-$30 for sets of 2) are a wish come true. They keep coffee hot, but don’t burn your hand. They keep water cold, but don’t give you the chills. And they come in all different sizes. Plus, they’re more fun-looking than the average glass.

Gift-Guide-Bodum-Glasses.jpg

Aerobie AeroPress:

Again, you’ve seen this contraption on We are not Martha before (read the post to learn more), but I highly recommend the Aerobie AeroPress ($25.95) as a gift for any coffee drinkers in your life. It’s super inexpensive and makes what I believe is some of the best coffee ever. Talk about value!
Gift-Guide-Aeropress.jpg

Contigo Travel Mug:

Another gift for the coffee-lovers out there. Anyone who takes coffee to work likely knows how annoying it is to a) get to work and have the coffee be cold and b) go to take a sip of coffee and have it spill all over you (and your white coat when you’re on your way to work… Not that I would know…). Well, the Contigo Travel Mug ($17.99) solves both those problems. It seriously keeps coffee hot for HOURS. Like so hot you won’t believe it. Plus, the autoseal lid actually automatically seals between sips so there will be no danger of spilling. Oh, and if you prefer cold drinks to hot coffee? Contigo keeps those cold for 12 hours.
Gift-Guide-Coffee-Mug-Contigo.jpg

Bloody Mary Gift Basket from GourmetGiftBaskets.com:

You must know someone who has a healthy obsession with bloody marys. If so, this is their dream gift. This Bloody Mary Gift Basket ($79.99) comes with everything (and much more!) you need for an amazing bloody mary. If you don’t know any bloody fans, there’s always the Mojito Gift Basket and many more.
Gift-Guide-Bloody-Mary-Gift-Basket.jpg

Sign up for Fab.com:

OK, this isn’t a gift, but more of a demand from me. Because you’ll find lots more holiday gifting inspiration here. You probably think the last thing you need is a daily deal site to send you emails. But Fab is, well, fab. That’s all. It’s filled with design inspiration and will make your heart melt. In a good way. You can sign up with my invite code and I’m pretty sure you’ll become as obsessed as I am.

Gift-Guide-fab-logo.jpg

I could keep going. Forever. Really. But, even though it’s December 1, the holidays are coming upon us quickly and I know you want to finish up your shopping! I hope you found a gift idea or two on this list… And remember to check out last year’s Holiday Gift Guide because I still highly recommend everything on there!

What’s your favorite holiday gift for food lovers this year?

[Sues]