The winter holidays approach, which means gift-giving season is here. All this week, Nosh is bringing you ideas for unique, local food-related gifts that are easy to snag in a local East Bay venue, or can be ordered and shipped with a few clicks of the keys. After all, everyone on your gift list has to eat!
For thoughtfully designed gifts that blend both practicality and style, look no further than kitchen tools and accessories. These are the gifts that they’ll reach for again and again throughout the year, truly relying on essential cookbooks and sharp knives, and taking pleasure in speckled ceramics and soft linens.
Sure, it’s easy to stock up at Williams-Sonoma, a Bay Area tastemaker since 1956. But there are so many small and independent shops that are actually local to the East Bay, places where you can find gifts that go way beyond the same-day-shipped.
Here are the highlights this holiday season, whether you’re shopping for your best food friend, or craving something for your own wishlist.
For someone who eats everything in bowls
Oakland ceramicist Sarah Kersten’s basin collection. Courtsey: Sarah Kersten
Listen, eating food in bowls is no longer a trend, it’s officially a lifestyle. And local ceramicist Sarah Kersten’s new basin bowl collection is breathtakingly pretty: wide and shallow bowls, speckled as naturally as quail eggs or Appaloosa ponies.
She handshapes them all in her studio in Oakland, and supplies many cool restaurants across the Bay, from Sister and Jo’s Modern Thai in Oakland to Octavia in SF and Valley Bar + Bottle in Sonoma. And they come in a range of colors and sizes, from the tidiest olive dish to the broadest pasta bowl.
These Palm + Perkins napkins embrace the mismatch. Courtesy: Palm + Perkins
This local general store carries a wide range of clothing, homewares, and other gifts, and they love featuring sustainability this season. But it doesn’t feel like a lecture with these handsome napkins, mismatched in blues and grays, and sporting jaunty stripes and checks.
The fabric just happens to be made from 100 percent recycled materials (80 percent cotton from clothing and 20 percent poly yarn from plastic bottles, to be precise). Plus, it’s a festive time of year to set out cloth napkins, and inspiration to avoid tossing so many paper towels.
Palm + Perkins, 2950 College Ave. (near Ashby Avenue), Berkeley. Shop in person 11 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, or purchase online.
For the cocktail connoisseur living that highball life
Even tap water tastes better when it’s from a cool glass, like this one from Aderia. Credit: Umami Mart
The highball craze keeps high rolling across cocktail menus in the East Bay. And they do go down easy, don’t they? Thanks to good whisky, lots of ice and bubbly mix-ins, which help lower the ABV. Everyone’s favorite Japanese market has several cool sets of tall glasses, so you can keep chilling and sipping at home.
They’re made by Aderia, a collectible glass maker in Japan, whose whimsical and retro designs date back more than 200 years. Umami Mart carries several of their patterns, including this “slash” design, with cuts fanning around the base of the drink. Of course, Umami Mart also stocks excellent Japanese whiskies, if you want to pair with a bottle.
Umami Mart, 4027 Broadway (near 40th Street), Oakland. Open 12-6 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and Sunday, 12-7 p.m. Saturday, also available online.
For the gastro-traveler who won’t shut up about their trip to Portugal
This little terracotta pig does double duty as a cute centerpiece and as a showy assador. Credit: The Spanish Table
May we present the real party animal of this holiday season: A little terracotta pig who serves as an assador — a mini tabletop grill for sausages. Set him out with drinks and snacks, pour alcohol into his belly and strike a match. Then throw chourico or linguica sausage onto his back, and let it roast in the flame.
Is he a one-trick pig? Maybe, but look, that’s never stopped anyone from gifting a Swiss fondue set. So for the friend who keeps going on about the anchovies they ate in Lisbon, this could be a fun party trick. Plus, how cute!
The Spanish Table, 1814 San Pablo Ave. (near Hearst Avenue), Berkeley. Open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11-5 Sunday, or order online.
For the dedicated diner who still misses Brown Sugar Kitchen
The cover of Oakland chef Tanya Holland’s latest book, California Soul. Credit: Ten Speed Press
Chef Tanya Holland closed iconic soul food restaurant Brown Sugar Kitchen in January 2022, serving her last fried chicken and waffles. The Oakland chef remains front-and-center, however, with her latest cookbook, California Soul.
Holland’s book features Black farmers and foodmakers from across California, while serving fresh interpretations of Dungeness crab gumbo, collard green tabbouleh and lavender buttermilk pie, among 80 recipes. It’s available wherever good cookbooks are sold, but if you pick up a copy at local Marcus Books, you’ll be supporting another Black-owned business in the East Bay.
Marcus Books, 3900 Martin L King Jr Way (near 39th Street), Oakland, open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 12-4 Sunday, also available online.
For the serious cook who deserves a Japanese knife
The Hida Santoku at Hida Tool is serious knife business. Credit: Hida Tool
Berkeley cooks get their knives sharpened at Hida Tool, a hardware store that sources the finest kitchen, woodworking, and gardening tools from Japan. For serious cooks, they carry an array of chef’s knives, from straight to western handles, and with different lengths and curves of blade.
The Hida Santoku is their own original creation, crafted in collaboration with knifemaker Sakai Kikumori. It features modern and durable stainless steel, but finely sharpened to a Japanese bevel, and fitted with a traditional octagonal handle made of lightweight magnolia. Your minced herbs may never be the same.
Hida Tool, 1333 San Pablo Ave. (near Gilman Avenue), Berkeley. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, or purchase online.
For the neat freak who lives for pantry organization
Hard to imagine a spice rack more Instagrammable than this one from Sweet July. Credit: Sweet July
For anyone who thinks heaven must resemble the Container Store, here’s a sweet little slice of organization. At Sweet July, Ayesha Curry’s airy retail shop in Oakland, the television star and domestic polymath stocks a variety of different ceramics, linens and other home goods. Including this simply perfect spice rack, made of blonde acacia wood, petite enough to slide into most cabinets, and offering a triplet of tiered steps.
So you can easily spy what’s inside every bottle! No more rummaging around in the spice cabinet up to your armpit. Either place existing bottles on the rack, or invest in the matching glass set with acacia stoppers (sold separately). At only twenty-something bucks for the rack, you could even throw in a bottle of Jamaican curry or jerk seasoning from Oaktown.
Sweet July, 455 23rd St. (near Valley Street), Oakland. Open Monday, and Wednesday-Saturday from 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 11-6 (closed Tuesday), or order online.
For the farmer’s market rat who stalks seasonal produce
If time must pass, a calendar from Maria Schoettler makes it do so more deliciously. Credit: Maria Schoettler
She’s an icon. She’s a legend. She is the iconic vegetable calendar from Oakland illustrator Maria Schoettler. If you’ve ever stood in a kitchen, scrutinizing the brushstrokes of a lovingly hand-painted red kabocha or leaf of dino kale, perhaps you already understand.
Schoettler has been making these kitchen calendars since 2008, and she paints them fresh every single year. “Fresh produce for a fresh year, baby,” as she writes on Instagram. They’re printed on thick and textured art stock and hang on a sturdy wire hook, so you can flip through the months and get excited for every microseason. There is no greater gift for hyperlocal produce obsessives in the East Bay.
If you’re shopping for foodies this holiday season, whether it’s friends who love to cook or family who love to eat, we’ve discovered a secret source of the best kitchenware holiday gifts you can find — museums! Rather than giving a mug or useful kitchen tool, museums have a variety of kitchenware and dining items that are just as beautiful as they are helpful.
We’ve rounded up the best kitchenware gifts that represent a diverse range of cultures, interests, and art styles. Even better, they come in a wide range of prices so you can grab a white elephant gift for the office, a nice present for the in-laws, and something to wow your too-cool sibling or cousin who is impossible to shop for.
Each item on our list offers a fascinating history, unique and eye-catching design — or both. From rainbow-hued fold-by-number napkins to a replica of an ancient tea set, you’re bound to find something for everyone on your list, not to mention a few items that deserve a spot in your own kitchen too.
Holly Tea Towel and Napkins Set from The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History
Give the gift of holiday cheer with a useful purpose. Any host or hostess would love to receive this 100-percent cotton set of Holly tea towels and napkins from The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History ($52 at the time of publication). Each towel and napkin features vintage botanical holly artwork from the Cavallini Archives. This useful gift also has holly’s scientific name (aquifolium) printed on them and the towels and napkins read “Noel” across the top. Helpful for busy hosts this time of year, they are also machine washable. Even better, it comes ready for gifting in a reusable muslin drawstring bag.
Killer Whale Tea Cups from The Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian
This set of porcelain Killer Whale Teacups ($42 at the time of publication) from The Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian features a teal hobnail textured exterior. After your gift recipient finishes their drink, they can savor the beautiful contemporary indigenous North American killer whale design inside the cup in a complementary blue color with contrasting dark brown touches, making this a useful and beautiful gift for a boss, friends, or family, whether they are tea, coffee, or hot cocoa drinkers. Killer whales, or orcas, in many North American Indigenous cultures are potent symbols of longevity, harmony, and protection according to Spirits of the West Coast Art Gallery. These cups are microwave and dishwasher-safe and hold 12 ounces each.
Tyrannosaurus Rex Animated Chopsticks from The American Museum Of Natural History
Whether they eat meat like a T-Rex or are more of an herbivore, this set makes mealtime more fun for kids still learning the right way to use chopsticks (or adults — we won’t judge!). Coming from the shop at the American Museum Of Natural History in New York City, these green Tyrannosaurus rex chopsticks ($11 at the time of publication) don’t just make grabbing food easier; they have an articulating jaw that “chomps” when they’re squeezed open and closed. Even if they’re not a dinosaur buff that knows that a T-Rex ate as many calories as about 80 people a day (via FiveThirtyEight), this set is guaranteed to have your young recipient roaring.
Italian Armor Etched Stainless Steel Ice Bucket from The Metropolitan Museum Of Art
Mixing the perfect drink is a fine art, so why shouldn’t the ice bucket you use to hold your cubes be a work of art too? Part of a set of barware from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Italian Armor Etched Stainless Steel Ice Bucket ($180 at the time of publication) is designed to celebrate Italian-made armor from circa 1510 that is in the Arms and Armor galleries at the Met. The ice bucket comes gift boxed and has a touch of leather on the handle to mimic the leather waistband of the armor that inspired it. The bucket is hand-wash only and is not dishwasher safe.
Pantone Tritan Drinking Bottle from The National Gallery Of Art
This jolly red Pantone Tritan Drinking Bottle ($40 at the time of publication) courtesy of the National Gallery of Art helps your favorite art enthusiast or graphic designer get in touch with the punchiest color of the season: Color 2035, of course. If you’re not into design, Pantone offers thousands of different colors to be used for a wide variety of graphic designs and products, drinking bottles included. This 16.9-ounce bottle has a twist-on stainless steel cap and a narrow 2.5-inch width, which means it will fit well in backpack bottle pockets and cupholders in their car — because there is nothing more annoying than a beautiful new water bottle that won’t fit in your cupholder!
Blue and White Tea Set from The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art
Have a tea lover in your life? This ceramic and stainless steel tea set ($88 at the time of publication) from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art is an ideal gift. The delicate blue and white artwork is the same design found on a set in the Freer Gallery at the National Museum of Asian Art’s permanent collection. This set includes six cups and a teapot that comes with a stainless steel inset tea strainer for their favorite loose-leaf teas. The teapot holds up to 14 ounces and each cup holds three ounces. As an added bonus, the entire set is dishwasher-safe.
Puffin Space Suit Beverage Holder from The Kennedy Space Center
If you’re looking for a fashionable alternative to the standard Koozie, the Puffin Space Suit Beverage Holder ($29.99 at the time of publication) is truly out of this world. We’ve scoured the galaxy and decided that this is the best gift for your friend who is obsessed with all things space. The koozie-style can insulator can accommodate a 12-ounce can of beer, cider, or soda as well as tall and slim 16-ounce cans. This adorable tiny space suit is hand wash-only and the little backpack on the back actually opens and closes to keep an extra cookie, candy, or other small objects close at hand.
Florentine Serving Tray from The Getty
This impressive Florentine Serving Tray ($60 at the time of publication) from the Getty museum in Los Angeles might be just the thing for your hard-to-buy-for in-laws. It’s not just a beautiful tray for breakfast in bed either; great pains were taken to use historically accurate 14th-century techniques in the creation of this work of art. Despite its reasonable price point, it’s made of carved wood which is decorated by hand. Measuring about 10-by-15 inches, it’s well-sized for a plate of food and drinks or perhaps to just serve a few beverages — it’s made to be safe for use with hot drinks and to be alcohol-resistant. This is a hand-wash-only item.
Alma Thomas: March on Washington Tray from The National Gallery Of Art
This 10-inch acrylic tray ($60 at the time of publication) would be a fantastic choice for anyone who entertains and might need something to carry drinks or appetizers. It was created to celebrate the National Gallery of Art’s Afro-Atlantic Histories exhibit which featured the oil painting “March on Washington” by Alma Thomas. Printed on the tray, the work, painted in 1963 by Thomas after she took part in the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, is a depiction of the protest against the unequal treatment of Black people and other people of color during that era, according to Clio.
Marrakesh Rainbow Birch Wood Spatula From The American Museum Of Natural History
Anyone who cooks on the regular could use another spatula in the kitchen. This rainbow-colored birch-wood spatula ($15 at the time of publication) from The American Museum Of Natural History is designed to evoke the marketplaces in Marrakesh, Morocco. It’s well-sized at 12 inches long and it has a hook on the handle so it can be hung up for storage. This heirloom-quality spatula isn’t safe to go in the dishwasher. Because it’s made of wood, this is a hand-wash-only item or it can be wiped clean. However, it’s safe to be used for all cooking surfaces — even nonstick pots and pans.
Davis Ceramics from The Art Institute of Chicago
Beautiful modern artwork you can eat off? Yes, please. These food-safe ceramic trays ($90 at the time of publication) from the Art Institute of Chicago’s museum shop can be purchased separately and they also have matching vases if you’re looking to create a set of your own. The minimalist yet colorful art is the work of Mary Anne Davis, a contemporary Hudson Valley ceramic artist. We think the trays would be just as great for a small cheeseboard as they would for homemade sushi or appetizers. All of the pieces are handmade and hand decorated. Just keep in mind that they are hand wash-only.
Art Institute of Chicago Collection Coaster Set From The Art Institute Of Chicago
No one likes rings on their furniture from a sweating or dripping drink, which is why these coasters ($15 at the time of publication) have “stocking stuffers” written all over them. The six coasters are printed with paintings hanging at the Art Institute of Chicago including Vincent van Gogh’s “The Bedroom,” Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s “Two Sisters (On the Terrace),” Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte,” Paul Cezanne’s “The Basket of Apples,” and a pair of works from Claude Monet: “Water Lilies” and “The Artist’s House at Argenteuil.” Each coaster is made to last using high-density fiberboard and backed in cork to keep them in place on a coffee table.
AMNH Shark Thermal Mug from The American Museum Of Natural History
The AMNH Shark Thermal Mug ($35 at the time of publication) from the American Museum Of Natural History is the handiest gift for keeping drinks hot or cold year-round. The mug holds up to 12 ounces in its copper-plated interior to maintain the temperature of the drink enclosed. A cork base keeps it from skidding on tables and the thumb-operated lid allows you to close the spout for travel or to keep the liquid warm or cold. The minimalist line art on this official American Museum Of Natural History mug features a hammerhead shark. Due to the metal, this isn’t safe for the microwave, and hand washing is recommended.
Walnut Cutting + Serving Board from SFMOMA
If you’re looking for a truly impressive holiday gift for a foodie, consider the Walnut Cutting and Serving Board ($110 at the time of publication) from the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. This artisan-crafted cutting board is a substantial 16 inches long and almost 9 inches wide, making it large enough for a serious cheese board or for everyday slicing and dicing. The board is made of solid black walnut wood and has an inlaid raw brass logo that will gain an aged patina look with time and use. Crafted in the San Francisco Bay area, each board has its own unique wood grain pattern making it one of a kind, just like your loved one.
Reversible Lid Ice Box from MoMA Design Store
A genius gift for anyone who entertains or appreciates a well-mixed cocktail, the Reversible Lid Ice Box ($34 at the time of publication) from the MoMA Design Store offers an easy, level place to make unique hexagonal ice and a box to store them in as well. Each batch makes 33 ice cubes and the bowl can hold up to 150 cubes in total. Measuring 9-by-9 by-5 inches, this ABS plastic and silicone ice box takes up only a reasonable amount of room in the freezer too. It comes in white with a black interior or black with a white interior.
Takashi Murakami Flower Pancake Pan From MoMA Design Store
The only thing more smile-inducing than fluffy pancakes? Fluffy pancakes that are smiling back at you. This adorable pan is inspired by the first NFT courtesy of Japanese artist and entrepreneur Takashi Murakami and features his signature smiling flower design. The Takashi Murakami Flower Pancake Pan ($40 at the time of publication) is safe for induction and gas stovetops. The pan is just over 5 inches across for perfectly proportioned pancakes. A resin handle keeps hands safely out of the way from the stainless steel material of the pan itself. It even comes with a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.
All-In-One Kitchen Tool Set From MoMA Design Store
Looking for a gift for someone who just moved into a new house or apartment? The colorful All-In-One Kitchen Tool Set ($30 at the time of publication) from the MoMA Design Store is an ultra-useful gift that they’ll be thankful for. The tools in this striking bottle include a funnel, lemon juicer, spice grater, egg masher, lid opener, egg separator, and measuring cup. The compact stacking fashion in which the tools store together would also make this a thoughtful gift for anyone who likes to cook while traveling, replacing a drawer-full of kitchen tools in about the same space as a bottle of wine. This set which is designed by Akebono Sangyo, is hand wash-only.
Wire Mesh Bowls from The MoMA Design Store
Made of powder-coated steel, this architectural Wire Mesh Bowl ($50 at the time of publication) from the MoMA Design Store is a striking and usual gift that comes in three colors: red, blue, and yellow. This would make a fantastic fruit bowl to store apples, bananas, or citrus — but not together because bananas and apples off-gas ethylene, making citrus rot faster (certainly not the best way to keep your lemons fresh). The open-air nature of the design allows for maximum air circulation, making it a great option for storing onions, garlic, and shallots too. It’s just short of 5 inches tall and 10 inches in diameter, and it comes with a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.
Fold-by-Number Napkins from SFMOMA
The gift that keeps on giving, these Fold-by-Number Napkins ($42 at the time of publication) will be your go-to holiday gift for anyone who loves throwing dinner parties. These vibrant rainbow-hued napkins are printed with fold lines to help guide your gift recipient, teaching them how to fold napkins in six entirely different ways (a separate set of instructions are also included). The designer created this reusable, washable cotton napkin set based on childhood memories of being taught how to fold napkins by her grandmother and your gift recipient can help carry on that tradition. Each of the six napkins included in the set is a sizable 20 square inches.
Clara French Press from MoMA Design Store
The Clara French Press ($99 at the time of publication) is as thoughtfully crafted as your coffee-obsessed friends are picky about the coffee beans they’ll use to fill it. The black minimalist design will be at home on any countertop. It has a vacuum-insulated interior to keep coffee hot and it has fill lines for grounds and boiling water to make it even easier to get a few cups of java ready in a flash. The BPA-free plastic lid can pour from any side, saving coffee lovers from needing to line it up with the spout. The stainless steel interior is free of PFTE and PFOA.
Tipsy Bottle Opener from SFMOMA
Upgrade that college-era bottle opener for something artsier — but make it fun. The perfect gift for friends, family, or as a hosting gift, the Tipsy Bottle Opener ($28 at the time of publication) from SFMOMA is a two-piece set that includes a cast metal, chrome-finished cone-shaped base and balancing bird bottle opener. This unique gift is interesting enough to leave out on display but it’s also a useful bar accessory your recipient will cherish for years. The pyramid base is 4 inches tall and the bird is 6 inches in length, making it easy to hold when in use. We admit we want to buy this one for our home bar!
Andy Warhol Campbell’s Soup Mug from LACMA
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is home to two of Andy Warhol’s famous soup can paintings and its shop offers this cheeky Campbell’s Soup Mug ($14.99 at the time of publication) in both a blue and version. When asked why he painted his soup can series, Warhol replied, “I used to drink it. I used to have the same lunch every day, for 20 years” (via LACMA). With a price point of $15 at the time of publication, this is a great choice for any pop art fans — or soup fans in your life. The 16-ounce ceramic mug features a sturdy handle for hot beverages and comes ready to gift in a red and brown cardboard gift box.
Trivet Hokusai The Great Wave from The Museum of Fine Arts Boston
Help your recipient protect their countertops from a pan of focaccia straight out of the oven with this beautifully rendered The Great Wave trivet ($16 at the time of publication) courtesy of The Museum of Fine Arts Boston. Featuring the stunning work from Edo-period artist Hokusai, the trivet is 8 square inches and heat resistant up to 450 F with special heat-releasing channels on the back to help air circulate under a hot dish. The slip-resistant food-safe silicone material is safe to pop in the dishwasher on the top rack when it’s gotten grimy too. It can also be used as a trivet for pitchers or as a spoon or spatula rest to keep counters clean.
Fixie Bike Pizza Cutter from The Museum Of Contemporary Art
For all the pizza lovers in your life! Making pizza requires getting the perfect crust-to-sauce-to-cheese ratio. What better way to celebrate that balance than gifting Fixie Bike Pizza Cutter ($24 at the time of publication) from The Museum Of Contemporary Art. Will it work on delivery pizza? Absolutely. Does it deserve a homemade pie? We think so. The set comes with two pieces: The bicycle-shaped pizza cutter with a stainless steel blade plus an adorable kickstand. Assuming your loved one doesn’t have small children running around, this is a kitchenware gift they can leave out on the counter or shelf to display as a piece of art between slicing pies.
Rivsalt Himalayan Sea Salt Grater From The Museum Of Contemporary Art
Leave your loved one salty — in a good way — with the Rivsalt Himalayan Sea Salt Grater ($32 at the time of publication) from the Museum Of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles. The set includes a Japanese-style stainless steel grater specially designed for salt and an FSC-certified oak board for holding salt that also functions as a stand for the grater. Also included (of course) are Himalayan salt crystals, which are pink due to naturally-occurring impurities that include 84 trace minerals. The pieces come neatly boxed so they’re easy to wrap and the under-$40 price point (at the time of publication) make them a solid option for many recipients.
I might be biased, but when it comes to gift-giving, it’s pretty difficult to go wrong with food-related gifts. After all, everyone needs to eat.
But I also believe that purchasing gifts from local shops and artisans makes the experience even more special. Not only are many of the gifts one-of-a-kind, but they have a huge impact on both the local economy and the people who live and work here.
So before you head online to order from a big box store or national gift box company, take a look at this list and see if you can find a local substitution. Most of the items are available for purchase online. So you can still do your holiday shopping from the comfort of your own home, while also doing some serious good for local establishments.
The following list will not only give you an overview of some of the amazing foodie gifts available from local retailers, it’s also a curation of some of my own favorite items, all of which I’d be delighted to give (or to receive).
If you have questions or need more suggestions for specific gift ideas, you can also feel free to email me at lori@onmilwaukee.com. I’m happy to make recommendations or help however I can. Happy holidays everyone!
All of these newly published tomes (plus probably a dozen more) are on my personal wish list this year, so my guess is they’d be great bets for any of the serious (or curious) cooks in your world. As a bonus, all are currently in stock at Boswell Books.
You can’t expect to pick up a book by J. Kenji López-Alt and not learn something. It’s one of the things I love about his cookbooks (and his YouTube video series), both of which offer much in the way of education, while keeping me liberally entertained.
While this book definitely focuses on technique, it’s not short on recipes. You’ll find things like Sichuan-style blistered green beans, cheesy scallion pancakes, pad Thai and his “internet famous” San Francisco–Style garlic noodles (which I cannot stop making). There are also plenty of lessons to be learned here from proper freezing techniques to a velveting technique (an approach to keeping meat tender) that actually works. Ultimately – and much like his former cooking bible “The Food Lab” – The Wok is an absolute goldmine of knowledge.
I’ll admit the title of this book did not draw my attention. But the recipes inside definitely did. In Baraghani’s quest to find his style, he combines the home cooking he learned from his Iranian parents with his professional cooking background to reimagine countless well-known dishes in utterly delicious ways.
The big flavors in this book drew me in and the recipes – which are unique but still accessible – offer tons of inspiration. The recipe for Very Crispy Garlic Chile Oil is reason alone to purchase this book. But you’ll also find mouthwatering recipes for things like buttered potatoes with salted lemon; big shells with spicy lamb sausage and shawarma roast chicken with shallots and lemon.
I don’t follow many food blogs these days; but The Woks of Life is an exception. It’s taught me a great deal about navigating the condiment aisles at Asian grocery stores and purchasing the best quality items. I’ve also found more than a handful of stellar recipes. So when I saw that the Leung family had released a book with 100 of their favorite recipes, I didn’t hesitate to purchase it.
Recipes run the gamut from easy weeknight meals like beef and broccoli to spicy beef biang biang noodles and cantonese pork belly fried rice. In fact, it’s become a great addition to my growing collection of Chinese cookbooks thanks to its home cook-friendly lay-out and trustworthy recipes.
The fruit of a 586-day, 20,000 mile road trip throughout Mexico, this cookbook by Rick Martínez not only offers up a lovely collection of recipes that showcase the diversity of cuisines in Mexico, but Martínez’s personal story as he delves into his Mexican heritage. The book is worth it for recipes like cochinita pibil from the Yucatán; Oaxacan tamales; and a huge collection of salsas, including the gorgeously smoky salsa de chipotle y chile de arbol, which I could eat on just about anything. But you’re sure to find more favorites from the collection of 100 unique dishes.
I love this book because it tells an important story. Each recipe is personal and it’s part of the author’s quest to get to know his homeland (and therefore himself) through food. As Martínez points out, it’s also an important counter to the long-lauded written by white authors including Diana Kennedy and Rick Bayless. Thank you, Martínez.
It’s been a while since I hosted a party, but I’ve definitely got the bug. And this book has no shortage of inspiration for easy-to-make dishes that are worthy of a simple weeknight happy hour or a bigger bash with friends. In fact, it’s among the more user-friendly guides to boozy eating and entertaining that I’ve come across.
Recipes include tasty options like smoked rosemary almonds, a reimagined cheese ball, cherry kofte, piri piri shrimp cocktail, soba noodles and even a few desserts. You’ll also find over 30 cocktail recipes, companion cocktails for each dish, curated menus for a variety of occasions and tips for saving time, including batching cocktails.
I love the idea of gifts that keep on giving, and magazine subscriptions are one of those lovely gift ideas that I think we often forget about. In the case of EATEN, it’s a beautifully designed indie print magazine that focuses on all things food history. You’ll find old recipes, intriguing essays and stories about fascinating people who’ve graced the edible landscape over time.
The art direction is zany and wonderful and the content is smart and well-researched. So, if you know someone who loves learning more about food, culture and the stories behind items like Earl Grey tea, the rise and fall of tiki culture and the Oleo Wars, you might consider wrapping up an issue of this feast of a magazine (along with a full subscription) and putting it under the tree. Find it at eatenmagazine.com (single issues $20; one-year subscription $55)
Experiential gifts have so many benefits. They don’t take up space. They allow recipients to break from their usual routines. And they have the potential to create happy memories that can last a lifetime.
Gift cards
It’s going to be a long winter for restaurants. Give them a boost by gifting a foodie you know with a gift card from one of our great locally owned bars or restaurants. It’s among the best gifts you can give this season.
Got a friend who appreciates the arts? There’s no better gift than a dining experience at Saint Kate – Arts Hotel where dining experiences vary from locally inspired artisanal fare at ARIA to bubbly brunch or evening drinks at their Giggly Champagne & Wine Bar. Neapolitan style pizza at Proof and well-prepared casual fare at The Bar in the gorgeous lobby are also up for grabs.
Give the gift of experience, and let us give back to you! When you buy a $100 Marcus Gift Card, you get a $25 Promotional Bonus Card to keep! Hurry, this Promotional Bonus Card offer expires December 31st.
Summerfest itself might not be a foodie destination. But did you know that these handy gift cards are good for all sorts of fun things, including tickets to food-based events like Milwaukee Food Truck Fest and Taco Fest, which take place on the Summerfest grounds? Indeed. It’s a gift your food-loving friends will love.
Know someone who would appreciate a year filled with discounts at local bakeries and cafes? This new coupon book would make a great stocking stuffer! The new Wisconsin Bakery & Cafe Book includes 30 locally-owned bakeries, cafes, and coffee shops throughout Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties. Books are $20 and contain 30 opportunities to get $5 off of every $20 purchase at any of the participating venues (up to three times at each location). Even better, a portion of all proceeds from each book sold will be donated to the Wisconsin Bakers Foundation with the goal of raising $20,000 to fund scholarships for individuals pursuing careers in baking and pastry arts. Purchase your Bakery & Cafe Book here ($20).
Cooking classes
Cooking a meal at home is one of life’s greatest joys, especially when you’ve mastered the techniques needed. For those interested in learning a new skill or how to make a new dish, cooking classes can be an amazing gift (and one that keeps on giving). The following venues offer gift cards which can be redeemed for cooking classes. Check out their websites, call or stop in for additional details.
Plants bring life to any home; but edible plants bring even more benefits. Consider these indoor edible garden kits as gifts for anyone who’d appreciate the joy of harvesting something fresh, even during the winter months.
Microgreens are teeny tiny sprouted greens that are packed with both intense flavor and concentrated nutrition. They’re flavorful, versatile and can be added to soups, salads, smoothies, eggs, sandwiches, pizza (and well, just about anything). They’re also easy to grow at home, with first harvest in as little as a week after planting. Each kit contains step-by-step instructions, a reusable growing container and mister and enough soil and seeds for two harvests. Grow kits are available in three assortments: broccoli and radish; purple kohlrabi and turnip; or purple cabbage and kale. Refill kits are also available.
Know a mushroom lover who would get a kick out of growing their own mushrooms at home? River Valley Ranch sells kits which contain everything needed to grow cremini or white button mushrooms.They even provide step-by-step instructions and video tutorials on their site to ensure mushroom growing success. Get them from River Valley Ranch ($22-$32).
This mini indoor herb garden is the perfect gift for a home chef who loves the flavor of fresh herbs all year round. It uses seed cultivars appropriate for indoor use and comes with a timber planter box that’s sized well to fit in a bright window. The Mediterranean kit includes thyme, rosemary and chives. The Culinary herbs kit includes parsley, basil and cilantro. They also come with a money-back guarantee.
Did you know that you can cultivate an endless supply of winter herbs for the kitchen by taking cuttings? You can. In fact, if you happen to know someone who has both a green thumb and a penchant for cooking, this wooden propagation station is the perfect gift. Choose from various types of wood, as well as the positioning of the glass vases. Get it from Camino Woodshop ($20-$42).
‘Tis the season for burning candles. It’s also the season to celebrate. For that reason, I’d argue that this candle is a particularly apt gift. It bears notes of citron, white peach, pineapple, cardamom, jasmine and flint. But, at its core, it smells like a flute of champagne… in other words: delicious. Give this one to your bubbly-loving friend… or anyone who needs a reminder that every day is a reason to celebrate.
These whimsical greeting cards are perfect for the mushroom lover in your life. They’d make the best thank you cards ever… and heck, snail mail is a lost art, so let’s bring all the love notes back! While you’re there, get them the matching notepad or mini notebook too!
Made locally by Milwaukee’s Sugarhouse Leather, these “Let’s Go. Tacos.” coasters are a sure bet for the taco lover in your world. Hand-cut and stamped, these lovely leather coasters develop a lovely patina as they age. Mix up a few of these with the “Shoot it. Tequila.” coasters and you’ve got a set that’s certain to garner a smile from the lucky recipient.
This fruity, woodsy incense from P.F. Candle Co. blew my mind when I purchased it at a gifty shop in De Pere. So when I ran out and found it locally at Orange and Blue Co., I was pretty excited. It smells of fruit, spice and evergreen trees, so it’s perfect for the holidays. Find it at Orange and Blue Co. ($11).
Give them a beautiful bold reminder to Be The Change in the world every single day, while treating them to a home filled with amazing culinary-inspired scents. Choose from spiced honey, black amber and plum (my personal favorite), coconut bamboo or chili pepper and mandarin.
“We write to taste life twice, in the moment and in retrospect” (Anais Nin). Maybe I’m old school, but I often keep a notebook on hand in the kitchen to jot down ideas, refine recipes or jot down items that need to make it onto the grocery list. This one is well-built with a heavy weight cardstock cover and chipboard back and its twin loop binding allows it to lie flat for writing. Find it at Swoon ($13).
I don’t know about you, but I miss a few things about summer. One of them is the smell of tomatoes picked fresh from the garden. This soy-based candle from Fern & Nettle burns clean and puts off top notes of lemon peel and tomato leaf, herbal mid-notes and a base of green leaves and moss. Best of all, it’s all but guaranteed to fill someone’s kitchen with that intoxicating aroma. And that’s positively priceless. Get it at Fern & Nettle ($16 for an 8-ounce candle).
Every food lover deserves a gorgeous slate board, which provides a dramatic display (and cool surface) for displaying any number of foodstuffs from fabulous cheeses to appetizers, sushi or sashimi. This gorgeous board made by Brooklyn Slate Co.is lovely and comes in an easy size to store. Bonus? It’s dishwasher safe. Find it at Village Cheese Shop ($39).
Does anyone really need a brie baker? Well, no. But it’s among the little luxury items that make perfect gifts (largely because most people wouldn’t bother purchasing one for themselves). These sleek modern bakers would make a lovely gift for anyone who entertains. At 7″ wide, these ceramic dishes will accommodate an average round of brie or camembert (or even a round of glorious Rush Creek Reserve). It also comes with a wooden spreader for serving. Find it at The Home Market ($32).
Housemade pasta is generally simple to make and it doesn’t require a lot of fancy tools. But as you branch out, there are a few gadgets that make the process easier. Take for instance a gnocchi board, which makes it easy to add all those little grooves which help the pasta to pick up all the delicious sauce. This wooden gnocchi board is not only functional, it’s pretty enough to hang on the wall in the kitchen.
This cheerful design is bound to instill a bit of joy each time the lucky cook lays down their spoon (or puts it away). The hand-thrown and glazed spoon rest is 5″ x 5.5″, so it accommodates just about any utensil. It’s also dishwasher and microwave safe.
I’ve been on the hunt for a great salt cellar for years (currently, my salt resides in a mason jar, which isn’t the most efficient set-up). But I recently came across these gorgeous wooden cellars made from painted sycamore wood and I fell in love. They’re stylish, appropriately sized and boast an inset lid, so it stays put. Other colors are available.
There’s nothing like freshly ground spices. And while I love my mortar and pestle, sometimes I’d prefer to shortcut the process. That’s where the CrushGrind Mill comes in handy. It works great for pepper (or salt); but it also accommodates multiple spices for creating custom blends. It produces grinds from coarse to fine and boasts ceramic parts (with a 25-year warranty), so it’s a solid investment. It’s among the tools every cook should have in their kitchens. Find it at Spice House ($45); local pick-up is available.
Ceramic mugs
For me, mugs serve multiple purposes. I use them as drinking vessels for just about any type of liquid (they keep cool liquids cooler longer than glass). And when they’re filled with coffee, tea or any type of hot liquid, they double as hand-warmers. Handmade ceramic mugs are also a source of joy for me. Every time I pull one out of the cupboard, it makes me smile. I can’t be the only one. Here are some mugs that I think would make remarkable gifts.
These gorgeous mugs are tall and attractive, boasting cheerful blue stripes and a sandy glaze. They’re made by Milwaukee-based maker Covet and Ginger. Find them at Orange & Blue Co. ($42); local pick-up is available.
The contrasting pattern on this Eucalyptus mug made by Indigo Pottery Studio in Georgia is fantastic. The over-sized handle ensures a comfortable grip (and lots of real estate for hand-warming).
The best handwarmers are the mugs without handles. These 8-ounce winter-themed tumblers are among my favorites from local ceramicist Pottery by Jessie, based in Mukwonago. They’re sure to be a go-to choice for coffee, tea and hot chocolate all winter long. Find them on Etsy (set for $120); local pick-up is also available.
Enjoying each moment is a goal to which we should all aspire. And this mug reminds – albeit with tongue-in-cheek messaging – that few things are important enough to get our undies in a bundle about. Made by Gilhouse Pottery in Muskego, you can find this mug in a few different iterations online at the Gilhouse Pottery site, at Pop’s Marketplace or at Vintage Grounds Coffeehouse ($25).
These chic black and white mugs made by Milwaukee-based maker Aaron Zeleske are not only eye-catching, but the coloration varies from mug to mug, ensuring you’ll have a unique set if you purchase more than one. Find them at The Waxwing ($40).
These gorgeous bowls are made from dark stoneware clay with a glazed interior and a beautiful rustic unglazed exterior. They’re the perfect size for a heartwarming bowl of delicious pasta, but they’re shallow enough to make the perfect serving vessel for any number of dishes. Gift them on their own or pair them with a bag of housemade pasta from Semolina pasta shop just down the street. Find them at Ursa ($28).
These handy rocks glasses celebrate Wisconsin’s award-winning cheeses and cheesemakers. Printed right here in Milwaukee, they’d make the perfect gift for any cheese-loving spirits or cocktail lover.
Speaking of cheese… this wine bottle shaped cheese board ($24) would make a great gift unto itself, but it’s fun and easy to spiff it up with items that are perfect for unique cheese pairings. Examples include Nutkrack candied pecans ($15); Quince & Apple pear mostarda ($8) and Indulgence Dark Chocolate Sea Salt bar ($7). Include a patterned cheese knife ($5) to round things out! Find these items at Story Hill BKC Bottle Shop.
These are gifts for the foodies who have everything. They’re little indulgences that will make their everyday lives more delicious. Even better, every time they create something delicious using one of these items, they’ll think of you.
I’d argue that good olive oil is an everyday must-have. But it’s definitely more costly than the grocery store variety. Fortunately, we have Oro di Oliva, an exceptional locally owned olive oil shop, right in our backyard. Here are some of my favorite Oro olive oils.
As extra virgin olive oils are concerned, I have a love affair with the Picual Spanish olive oil, which is gorgeously grassy and a bit peppery with hints of tomato leaf (375 mL for $21).
However, if you want to venture into flavored oil territory, I’d highly recommend the harissa oil, which is spicy, slightly smokey and perfect on so many things from potatoes and salmon to roasted chicken; it plays beautifully with orange zest ($15 for 200 mL). Oro’s rosemary olive oil is another of my go-to’s; it adds an herbal depth to everything it touches, from scrambled eggs to roasted cauliflower ($16 for 200 mL). I’ll also never go back to store bought roasted sesame oil after trying Oro’s. It’s deep and rich and a little goes such an incredibly long way. Try it on popcorn or drizzled over ice cream. Seriously. ($16 for 200 mL). Get them at Oro di Oliva
If you have a friend who cooks, they probably want a bottle of this. But I’ll let you decide for yourself. Here’s what they say about it: “Meet Momofuku Soy Sauce. If you’re used to grocery store soy sauce, you’ve never had anything like this. Our restaurant-grade version is made from organic ingredients and steeped with kombu for 48 hours to unlock a world of depth and flavor.”
Gift the spice loving cocktail lover in your life with this unique flavor enhancer (which can also be used to liven up just about any recipe). Use it to spice up a margarita, negroni, bloody mary or even a cup of hot chocolate. This brandy-based infusion incorporates Bird’s Eye, Scotch Bonnet, Aji Panca and Chiltepin chilis along with cinnamon, Euphrates mint, rosewater and sea salt to create a balanced – but very spicy – flavor bomb. Use with caution. Find at Bittercube Bazaar ($18).
Vine-ripened and hand-harvested in southwestern India, this pepper is complex with notes of red wine and nutmeg. It’s excellent for simple dishes that showcase its remarkable flavor. Think: steak au poivre or cacio e pepe.
It looks festive, but it’s delicious all year round. Santa Salt, named for the red and green colors in the blend, combines the fruity, floral heat of pink peppercorns with organic rosemary. It’s delicious on everything from scrambled eggs and seafood to poultry and pasta. Surprising uses? Try it in a shortbread recipe. Or add some to your next gin & tonic. It’s magical. Find it at Scout Wine Merchants ($8).
The sourdough craze that tipped off in 2020 has made lots of people sourdough curious. This is a gift for that friend who’d love to bake bread (or sourdough pancakes, waffles, English muffins or pizza), but thinks they don’t have time. Get them a jar of this dehydrated sourdough starter (yes, its name is Roy) and a copy of “10-Minute Sourdough: Breadmaking for Real Life” by Vanessa Kimbell. Life-changing. Find the sourdough starter at Ursa ($10).
Know a chocolate lover who also enjoys tinkering with fun DIY projects? These infusion kits from Tabal are available in two sizes in flavors like cacao and cinnamon or cacao and vanilla. They can be used to add flavor to any type of high proof alcohol (vodka, brandy, whiskey, etc) for use in cocktails or baking. A cacao-vanilla old fashioned? Yes, please. Find them at Tabal Chocolate ($10 or $20).
Aprons are utilitarian, but they don’t need to be boring. In fact, this gift-worthy apron is a worthy choice for that strong, fashionable female friend who also happens to kick ass in the kitchen. It comes complete with a convenient front pocket for stashing a towel, oven mitt or other useful items. Get it at The Waxwing ($38)
I also found this amazing hand-sewn “Nightmare Before Christmas” apron, which is just perfect for any Tim Burton fan. After all, folks like us listen to that soundtrack all year round (or at least between October and January). Fits sizes medium to 2XL. Also available in purple.
Every cook needs a great oven mitt (or three); and they’re typically among the most utilitarian (read: boring) items in a kitchen. So why not liven things up with these hilarious, super insulated 100{d2b09b03d44633acb673e8080360919f91e60962656af8ade0305d5d8b7e4889} cotton oven mitts made by Blue Q.
Not only will they elicit a smile every time they’re used, 1{d2b09b03d44633acb673e8080360919f91e60962656af8ade0305d5d8b7e4889} of the sale of all Blue Q Oven Mitts is donated to hunger relief throughout the world, including malnutrition programs at Doctors Without Borders.
If there’s one thing that has a tendency to wear out in an active kitchen it’s the kitchen towels. That makes them a welcome gift for most cooks. Of course, if you can find towels that are both functional and fun, that’s even better. These fit the bill.
I’m in love with the gorgeous color of this hand-dyed flour sack towel. It’s 100{d2b09b03d44633acb673e8080360919f91e60962656af8ade0305d5d8b7e4889} cotton and lint-free, so it’s perfect for drying glassware. It measures 26” x 26”. Additional colors are available.
This towel would be a great fit for any Wisconsin kitchen. This 28” square towel is made of absorbent cotton. Also available in white with green or red print.
These 20” rainbow hued hand-dyed cloth napkins give me an immediate burst of joy. They are made from absorbant finely woven 100{d2b09b03d44633acb673e8080360919f91e60962656af8ade0305d5d8b7e4889} cotton, making them perfect for everyday use. A set of six includes one of each color: fuschia pink, aqua teal, sunshine orange, leaf green, royal blue and golden yellow. Get the set from local maker Kilo Delta Designs ($48).
