Food and Drink
1-374 of 374
|
-
Silicone Wine Glasses
Who better to imbibe in a cocktail encased in bendable, durable silicone than a mother? That woman is either chasing a toddler or carrying a metric ton of baby gear. She needs a drink, and that drink needs to be as ready-to-go as she is.
$19 at Uncommon Goods | Buy
(Set of 2)
-
Stack Wines
Here is a great reason to kick off picnic season. Stacks are a set of four wine ‘glasses’ zipped up in a sleeve for easy transport. Unzip, pop the glasses apart, and toast to the return of outdoor drinking. It is that easy, and yes, the wine is that good.
-
Tea For All Reasons Downton Abbey Blend Tea
One simply cannot watch Downton Abbey without a proper cup of English tea. It just isn’t done. This blend of Orange Pekoe black tea, grenadine, and vanilla is aromatic, slightly sweet, and a little dark - just like our favorite show. Putting your tea in a cup emblazoned with the phrase “Free Mr. Bates!” is optional, but highly recommended.
$6 at Tea For All Reasons | Buy
-
Molecule-R Molecular Gastronomy Kit
Turn the traditional Valentine’s Day steak and lobster dinner into steak foam and lobster beads that burst in the mouth. You and your honey will have a blast experimenting with this kit that includes five pre-measured food additives, five specialized molecular tools, and a 50-recipe DVD to help you get started on the journey to food transformation.
-
-
Himalayan Salt Tequila Glasses
Wine isn’t your significant other’s thing. They would rather spend hours tasting and discussing the merits of reposado, blanco and añejo tequilas, and they shudder when someone orders a frozen margarita at a restaurant. Treat them to this set of four shot glasses carved from pink Himalayan salt. They’ll add a nuanced, salty tinge to shot, but don’t forget a few lime wedges and a bottle of their favorite tequila.
$30 at Uncommon Goods | Buy
-
Compartés Mexican Hot Chocolate Truffles
Spice up the traditional February 14th box of chocolates, South of the Border style. Rich artisan dark chocolate is taken to another level with hot chocolate and cinnamon, then printed with Mexican Dia de los Muertos skulls to warn your tongue of the fiery inferno to come. Yum!
$25 at Compartes Chocolatier | Buy
-
Lovebirds Cookie Platter
Some gals and guys aren’t really into candy, but gourmet cookies send their hearts a-racing every time. Instead of a box of chocolates, this selection of twelve hand-decorated, hand-baked chocolate sugar cookies is sure to be a hit come February 14th. We especially adore the lovebirds cookies - how tweet!
$35 at Trish Lynch | Buy
-
Organic Spanish Chocolate Bars
Valentine’s Day means chocolate to a lot of people, but why does it have to be a boring Whitman’s Sampler (no offense to those of you who love it)? These decadent bars are made in Spain from organic ingredients, and come in some pretty amazing gourmet flavors, like Milk Chocolate with Orange and Cardamom, Dark Chocolate with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and White Chocolate with Lemon and Pink Peppercorn. At just $7 apiece, you can pick up all five flavors for the price of one of those heart-shaped boxes - and be assured that your gourmet-loving sweetie will eat every last bite, as opposed to discreetly throwing said heart-shaped box away.
$7 at Schoolhouse Electric | Buy
-
-
Bamboo Sushi Set
Irasshaimase! (The traditional Japanese sushi bar greeting, literally meaning, “Come in!”) Now you can have the sushi bar experience on your sofa with this perfectly proportioned bamboo sushi tray, chopsticks, and soy sauce dipping dish. Get a few spicy tuna hand rolls and some sashimi from your favorite sushi joint, queue up a Miyazaki movie on your DVD player, and enjoy a night in.
$16 at Urban Outfitters | Buy
-
BKR Bottles
Beloved by eco-conscious celebs like Natalie Portman, these glass water bottles are encased in candy-hued silicone sleeves to ensure they won’t break every time you drop ‘em. They feature a leak-proof silicone gasket and polypropylene cap, and are even dishwasher safe. Available in 16 colors.
$28 at Spirit Beauty Lounge | Buy
-
Chile Crunch Condiment
Move over, Sriracha, Tabasco, and salsa, there’s a new spicy topper in town. This crunchy, tongue-teasing condiment is made from roasted chiles, herbs, spices, garlic, and onions sauteed in canola oil. Spoon it onto any savory food (or some sweet ones) to instantly oomph up the heat factor.
-
Eli’s Frango Mint Cheesecake
Ever sampled a chocolatey, peppermint-y Frango Mint? You got addicted, didn’t you? Well, now those melty delights have been transformed into cheesecake perfect for bringing to holiday dinner parties as a dessert-slash-hostess gift. Don’t be surprised, though, if you have to fight the other guests for the last crumbs on the plate.
-
Christmas Hat and Sweater Bottle Topper
Top that bottle of bubbly you’re gifting to your hairstylist with this sweet red-and-white Nordic patterned sweater & stocking cap, and you’ll instantly make that $10 bottle seem more like a $25 one. Devious? Maybe, but with so many people to give gifts to this year, you’ve got to make that budget stretch somehow.
$5 at Cost Plus World Market | Buy
-
Williams-Sonoma Peppermint Bark
Want to get in good with your mother-in-law? Bring a tin of this decadent peppermint bark to Christmas dinner or the ornament exchange party she’s hosting. One bite of the layered Guittard chocolate, white chocolate, and crunchy handmade peppermint candy-studded bark, and she’s sure to forgive any sins, perceived or otherwise.
$40 at Williams Sonoma | Buy
-
French Farm Coffee Collection
Staying overnight? Thank your host in the morning with a chic glass jar of French Farm Coffee. Pick from one of four blends of whole bean coffee and score some major guest points over breakfast.
$25 at Farmhouse Wares | Buy
-
Marrakech Tea Tins
A beautiful tea tin can hold endless treats- tea, sweets, or any little ‘thank you’ you can think of. Teavana’s Marrakech tins are a lovely way to present a gift, and are really a gift themselves.
-
Cocktail Hour Gift Set
What time is it? It is cocktail hour somewhere in the world, and best you be prepared should one pop up on your social calendar. Stonewall Kitchen has the essentials covered in this cute little set that includes a pomegranate cosmo mixer, cheese ball mix and sea salt crackers. All that’s missing is the booze and a fabulous location.
$18 at Stonewall Kitchen | Buy
-
Bella Figura Wine Set
A bottle of red, a bottle of white- a perfect pair for any wine enthusiast. Pasanella & Figilio’s organic wine set will impress and refresh hosts in need of some holiday unwinding.
$35 at Pasanella and Son | Buy
-
The Whisky Advent Calendar
Advent calendars with stale pieces of chocolate behind each door are best left to the kiddos. For a hostess gift that adults will drool over (and will result in you being invited back again and again), this over-21-only alcoholic advent tracker is a sure bet. Behind each of the 24 doors lies a bottled dram of a different whisky - one of them is even a 50 year-old Scotch whisky! We�d understand, though, if you wanted to buy this for yourself.
$238 at Master of Malt | Buy
-
Laguiole Cheese Knives
Made in France, these ooh-la-la fancy Laguiole cheese knives are a party must-have. Impress your host with your great taste and pair this set with a selection of yummy cheeses that will definitely be a party pleaser.
-
Knitted Cup Cozy
Your morning coffee deserves to be cozy, too. Wap this hand-knitted cup cozy around your mug to keep your hands warm but not hot and your beverage toasty.
$18 at Natalya's Studio | Buy
-
New York Public Library Mug
Gotta work through lunch again? Sip your lunchtime tea or coffee in this limited-edition mug with the words Lunch Hour facing out, and maybe, just maybe, your boss will leave you alone until youve finished eating your Cobb salad.
$17 at Fishs Eddy | Buy
-
Ampersand Bottle Opener
Raise a glass- or a bottle- to great pairs: Wine & cheese, beer & burgers, you & me. Some things just go together.
$10 at fred flare | Buy
-
Black + Blum Stacking Bento Box
Switch up your usual brown bag and tupperware routine for this eco-friendly tiffin-inspired bento set. A handy handle (ha ha) and included spork, plus watertight seals to keep everything locked away, make for one perfectly packed lunch box.
-
Halloween Party Wine Charms
Clip on a black charm to keep track of your magic potion while you kick up your heels on Halloween. Wine charms are perfect for parties, and especially for costumed get togethers. This cute Halloween themed set is a great hostess gift, too.
$10 at A Wine Twist | Buy
(set of 4)
-
True Blood: Eats, Drinks and Bites From Bon Temps
Hosting Bill for brunch, or having Sookie over for snacks? Indulge in some seriously southern, seriously good eats from this cookbook inspired by the hit vampire series, True Blood. Pro tip: Fangs are better for biting, not chewing.
-
Shortbread Finger Cookies
Ew. But yum? I am so conflicted. All I know is, the first one to pull a trick on Halloween is getting one of these under their pillow.
$20 at Williams-Sonoma | Buy
-
Impulse Diva Black Martini Glasses
After the wee ghoulies and ghosties (okay, more like Iron Men and Bratz, these days) have gone to bed on Halloween night, mix up a batch of pumpkin-flavored cocktails and serve them to fellow tired parents. We cant guarantee tricks, but anything served from this set of four unique, gothic martini glasses is sure to be a spooky good treat.
$45 at Overstock.com | Buy
-
Passionate for Pumpkin
You know its fall when pumpkin/pumpkin spice-flavored everything hits stores and restaurants. Pumpkin bread with a pumpkin spice latte for breakfast? Dont mind if I do. Pumpkin soup for dinner with pumpkin cheesecake topped with pumpkin ice cream for dessert? Yes, please!! Ready for a couple new ideas on what to do with the ol orange gourds? Read on!
Get glowing! One of the reasons pumpkin is so good for you? Its loaded with healthy antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals! Raid the pantry and give yourself a pumpkin facial, buff your bod with pumpkin body scrub, and finish it off with an exfoliating, tightening papaya pumpkin enzyme mask. And no, none of these will turn your skin orange. (PS Anyone up for an at-home pumpkin-themed spa party? Well bring the wine!)
Gardening, anyone? After Halloween, chop your Jack-o-Lantern into big pieces and add it to your compost pile. The nutrient-rich flesh makes great fertilizer and could really make a difference in your veggie, fruit, and flower gardens next year.
Smoothie time, baby! If youre one of the many who swear by daily fruit-and-veggie smoothies to get your nutrition in, have we got a treat for you! Pumpkin puree freezes beautifully in ice cube trays, after which you can quickly toss them in freezer bags to have ready for a healthy vegan treat, a new twist on a banana-yogurt smoothie, or go all out and treat yourself to the Pioneer Womans decadent pumpkin pie in a glass.
Oh, and one more thing: Weve all had pumpkin bars, pumpkin-and-chocolate brownies, pumpkin soup, and even pumpkin pizza (trust me, its divine - roasted pumpkin wedges, sage leaves and fontina cheese on crust, no tomato sauce), but this Armenian pumpkin stew recipe takes the cake (ha) for the most unique, tasty pumpkin-based recipe Ive ever found. Its easy to make vegetarian by omitting the lamb meat and swapping the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and a great way to clear out your spice cupboard to boot.
This content series is in partnership with smartwater. Fall is delicious: Click here to learn more.
$0 at smartwater | Buy
-
Indelicate Doilies Coasters
Let these bawdy coasters say what you would never dare. Don’t worry, no one will get mad at such a pretty and old-fashioned doilly coaster, regardless of how vulgar (but funny) it is.
-
Jonathan Adler Bird Salt + Pepper
Birds of a feather coo together in Jonathan Adler’s charming ceramic salt and pepper shaker set. A sweet tweet for the table, these charming birds will add instant whimsy and a bit of fun to any dinner party.
-
Carved Wooden Bottle Openers
Hand-carved wood with brass details, these bottle openers are as stylish as they are rustic. Pick from a menagerie of animals- we’re partial to the sweet elephant.
$30 at Pop Deluxe | Buy
-
Charley Harper Sunset Glasses Set
Todd Oldham has brought Charley Harper’s iconic illustrations to a new glassware collection exclusively for Fishs Eddy. This beautiful and unique set makes for a perfect wedding or hostess gift for fans of good design or those with fond memories of Harper’s work.
$34 at Fishs Eddy | Buy
(Set of 6)
-
Teak Servers
Teak table accessories are a gracious gift for any couple who enjoys entertaining. This sweet set features several servers plus a darling pear bowl, perfect for sauces or pinches of spice.
-
Happy Days Punch Bowl
Who says punch bowls are old fashioned? This cheerful acrylic bowl from designer Matz Borgstrm is ideal for cool al fresco refreshments, and the modern design and sleek style will make it a tabletop stand-out.
$40 at Broadway Panhandler | Buy
-
Waste-Free Snack Kit
Picnic weather is finally here, and even if you can’t spend the afternoon lolling in the grass you can at least grab your lunch break on a bench in the sun. This kit from Kids Konserve is the green way to eat al fresco- every piece, from the recycled cotton napkin to the reclaimed stainless steel containers- are as eco-friendly as can be. Let’s hope your actual lunch is just as healthy.
$35 at Branch Home | Buy
-
Beer Making Kit
Add beer making to your summer DIY list. Brooklyn Brew Shop sells convenient 1 gallon kits with everything needed to brew varieties like Bruxelles Blonde or Coffee & Donut Stout.
$40 at Brooklyn Brew Shop | Buy
-
Mom Cup
Moms been up all night feeding, rocking, and changing diapers. Some coffee is in order. And, its your turn to hold the baby.
$14 at Wandersketch | Buy
-
With Love House Red Wine
Does mom have a hankering for some Bordeaux? Wet her whistle and warm her heart with a sentimental bottle of Swamson Vineyards House Red. At the end of a long day, anybody’s mother could use a glass of wine.
$25 at Swanson Vineyards | Buy
-
19 Piece Spring Ballotin
Celebrate your mom with a big fancy box of chocolates- an indulgence she would never ask for but will always appreciate. She will be so impressed with your gift-giving she just might share a delicious, chocolaty treat with you.
-
The Macbeth Collection Party Tray
Who is ready to party? Looking for a fabulous housewarming, shower, or wedding gift this spring? We love personalized and functional gifts, and this tray from The Macbeth Collection fits the bill. Pick a print and add a monogram or personalize the tray any way you like. Your recipient will delight over a gift made especially for them, that they will actually use.
$78 at Orange And Pear | Buy
-
Picnic Carrier For Two
Be prepared for when the perfect picnic opportunity arises. Keep this classic kit in your trunk for impromptu park dining, and rest easy you’ve got everything you need in one charming basket. From salt and pepper to a trash bag to a cutting board, Picnic And Beyond thought of everything to make your picnic picture-perfect.
-
Hampton Cheese Marker Set
In charge of the cheese plate for the upcoming holidays? Make it a one-two gift combination and give the host this adorable set of cheese markers as well. The earthenware set can be used again and again, long after that cheese log runs out.
-
Lucky St. Patrick’s Day Cupcake Flags
Top O’ the cupcake to you! Deliver a sweet treat- with a sweet message- on St. Patrick’s Day, or use these flags as a friendly reminder during the rest of the year.
$8 at Go Against The Grain | Buy
-
The Clean Program By Dr. Alejandro Junger
If it is good enough for Gwyneth, it is good enough for you. Restart your, um, system with a cleanse. Follow the straightforward guide, down the shakes and supplements, and come out feeling like a squeaky-clean and brand new you on the other side. Chris Martin sold seperately.
-
Bicycle Old Fasioned Glass
Queen said it best: I want to ride my bicycle, I want to ride my bike! This set of screen-printed old fashioned glasses will charm any lucky recipient. Sipping cocktails out of whimsically designed glasses in a rainbow of colors? Weeeee!
(Set of 10)
-
Grow At Home Mushroom Kit
Mist and grow, it’s that simple. Grow your own fancy pearl oyster mushrooms in your kitchen, right in the box. Snatch off a few stems when you need them and watch for more ‘shrooms to bloom. Just like that, you’re a localvore.
$20 at Abe's Market | Buy
-
Gingerhaus Ultimate Gingerbread House Kit
Don’t freak out- this gingerbread house kit is totally doable. Gingerhaus supplies the frame for your confectionery mansion, so all you really have to do is a little baking and add the decorative flair. And then snack on it through New Year’s, of course. A fun and fancy way to embrace the holidays.
$30 at Sur La Table | Buy
-
Wine Bottle Attire
Cozy up that wine gift, it’s cold out there! Holiday party wine bottles call for festive attire- a jaunty hat and scarf. No need for mittens.
$10 at Sundance Catalog | Buy
(Buy 3 or more sets for $8 each)
-
Villa Manadori Balsamic
Aged balsamic vinegar that will make your next dinner party a hit with some french bread and mozzarella. This stuff is to die for!
$50 at Williams-Sonoma | Buy
-
Harry & David Trailside Gift Box
A perfect gift for co-workers or friends. It includes a gourmet assortment of nuts, moose-munch, sausage, and cheese.
$20 at Harry & David | Buy
-
Spiced Acorn S’mores
Make your hosts ever-so thankful for inviting you to Thanksgiving. Presenting a platter of Spiced Acorn S’mores will, in fact, secure your return invitation for years to come. Two Hearts Bakery whips up these delectable treats, sealing hand-cut marshmallows (made with cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg) between cinnamon-spiced graham crackers. And then they dip that entire pile of deliciousness in dark chocolate. Congratulations, you’ve just earned a seat at the adults table.
$25 at Williams-Sonoma | Buy
-
Whiskey Lover Set By Teroforma
Make like the country club set and enjoy some whiskey by a roaring fire this winter. Teroforma has made a one-stop set for distinguished imbibing- minus the hooch, of course. The set includes two crystal tumblers (fancy!) and 6 whiskey stones that will keep the good stuff nice and cold. Cheers to that!
$60 at Seltzer Studios | Buy
-
Chocolate Ghosts
Hands off, trick-or-treaters! These delicious treats are for grown-ups only. While the kids are gorging themselves on fun-sized candy bars, the adults can enjoy hand-dipped white chocolate ghosts, a seasonal treat from renowned chocolatier L.A. Burdick. Pair with some spiked cider for a spooky good time.
$18 at L.A. Burdick | Buy
-
Trolley Cooler
For a serious tailgater, serious gear is required. Insulated and waterproof, the cheerful, easy-to-spot orange trolley will smoothly tote tons of goodies to the next big game and fold up neatly when you’re all out of beer.
$80 at Crate and Barrel | Buy
-
Teacupcakes Cupcake Molds
Would you like a cup of tea to go with your cup of cupcake? A teacup-shaped silicone mold is a clever and cute way to serve a delicious spot of treat.
$15 at Paper Source | Buy
-
Salad Dressing Shaker
If you prefer your vinaigrette shaken, not stirred, invest in a eye-pleasing shaker that adds style to the table and flavor to your salad.
-
Glass Salt Bowl
Seasoning never looked so pretty. Keep your salt handy while cooking with a lovely glass bowl perfect for prep or snacks.
-
Linen Tray
This charming linen tray is technically meant for children, but we won’t tell if you use it to pass around treats at your next party. Made in Lithuania by Fog Linen.
-
Mesh Food Cover
There is nothing grosser than realizing a tantalizing picnic spread has suddenly turned into an insect playground. Toss on a few food covers to protect the delectables and chow down without having to check for tiny legs. (Ew.)
$13 at Bed Bath & Beyond | Buy
-
Bamboo Wine Table
Make any spot in your yard a romantic rendezvous for two. Stab the bamboo stake into the grass and enjoy some wine and cheese as you take in the scenery.
$22 at Uncommon Goods | Buy
-
Stanley Classic Flask
Camping trip with the kids? Flight grounded in Boise? Road trip with you in-laws? You need a flask. Pack this essential stainless steel Stanley flask, and good luck.
$20 at Dundee General Store | Buy
-
If You Can’t Stand the Heat Tray
A boldly graphic melamine tray that let’s your guests know who’s the boss in the kitchen.
(On sale)
-
Mandarin Curve Teapot
Kick back with a cozy cup of tea and bask in the glow of this supremely cheerful teapot. This citrus-hued beauty comes with its own infuser for fancy teas and will instantly liven up your your table.
$72 at Conran Shop | Buy
-
Yellow Knit Cozy Bone Ceramic Cup
A snuggly mug is the best kind. This ceramic cup comes with a handknit cozy, perfect for protecting your skin from too-hot coffee but still allowing you to warm your hands up.
$26 at Sprout Home | Buy
-
Spice Rub Collection
Why pick just one when you can give your favorite foodie Dean & Delucas’ entire collection of nine spice rubs? If they’re feeling Cajun or Moroccan, or anything in between, their meat is covered. Stand by the grill and reap the tasty spoils of your gift.
$60 at Dean & DeLuca | Buy
-
Caracas Cookies
Mix up the traditional tea time assortment with some tropical flair. Elsylee’s scrumptious poppy seed thumbprint cookies are buttery and delicious with sweet mango-pineapple yumminess in the center. Give a gift of a dozen Caracas cookies to a foodie looking to stretch their sweet sensibilities, and reward yourself with a few for being oh-so thoughtful.
(price is for 12)
-
Mean Beans
Substitute Mean Beans for pickles and be pleasantly surprised. These spicy stringbeans are pickled in cayenne and dill and add plenty of zing to a Bloody Mary (forget the boring celery) or to any dish that needs a little heat and oomph.
$10 at Ricks Picks | Buy
-
Sel Gris French Grey Salt
Himalayan Pink Salt is sooo last year. Sel Gris (grey salt) from Brittany is where it’s at- perfect for seasoning your foodie’s leafy greens and grilled veggies. Ooh la la.
-
Les Moulins Mahjoub Wild Mountain Capers
Capers aren’t popular in the States, but they are ubiquitous in Europe. Maybe 2011 will be the year capers make it big across the globe. Help spread the trend with the good stuff- hand picked in Tunisia and then coated in sea salt. Capers instantly adds depth to sauces and gravy, or can even liven up tuna fish salad. Your foodie will thank you.
$10 at Sur La Table | Buy
-
Chocolate Chilli Cashew Biscotti
A foodie certainly isn’t dipping Chips Ahoy into his coffee. Give that distinguished diner something truly delicious to dunk, like rich chocolate biscotti. The subtle heat from the chilli and the nuttiness of the cashews elevates this snack time treat into palate-blowing greatness.
$6 at Whimsy & Spice | Buy
(Price is for 10)
-
Hair Bender Coffee & Jar
Need a little pick-me-up? No wait, make that A LOT of pick-me-up? The Hair Bender will get your motor running like no other coffee. A blend from different growing regions and embodying chocolate and caramel flavors, this cuppa is meticulously crafted by the folks at Stumptown. Shoot a cup back and conquer your morning.
$30 at Stumptown Coffee | Buy
-
Wasabi Horseradish Cream Sauce
Make your mouth go zing and clear those nasal passages with this intensely delicious cream sauce. Wasabi and horseradish are a match made in fiery heaven and this creamy sauce can be used as a spread, in dips or marinades or wherever else a foodie finds it to be a tasty accompaniment.
$6 at Stonewall Kitchen | Buy
-
Chocolate Covered Bacon
Where two guilty pleasures collide, there is chocolate covered bacon. So wrong, yet so right.
$7 at Marini's Candies | Buy
-
French Macarons
Treat yourself to an after-dinner delight you’ll hardly be able to wait for. These handmade macaroons are the real deal, made fresh daily and available in a range of mouth watering flavors, from the simply delicious lemon or caramel, to the eyebrow raising violet cassis and earl grey tea.
$19 at Paulette Macarons | Buy
(price is for 12)
-
Asiago & Cracked Pepper Popcorn Seasoning
Full bodied, smoky pepper and cheese (because cheese makes everything better) adult-ifies popcorn into a sophisticated, savory snack. Definitely worth smuggling into the movie theater.
$6 at Urban Accents | Buy
-
Beer Lovers Towel Set
Handy kitchen towels for a beer enthusiast. The bold masculine black print makes this set a great gift for a guy who’s known for spilling his beer, and also known for never having any clean towels.
$21 at Nesta Home | Buy
-
Coaster Notz
This coaster pulls double duty as both a stylish resting place for your cocktail and a handy notepad. Made of silicone, the Notz are meant to be written on, and ink is easily cleaned off. So feel free to doodle while you dine, or scribble while you sip.
$23 at modern-twist | Buy
-
Nuance Wine Finer
Step aside, Vinturi. The newest, hottest wine aerator is the Nuance Wine Finer, which filters, pours and aerates–noticeably enhancing flavor–all in one easy step. The clever product slips right into your bottle and includes a tight-fitting stopper for use when storing your wine.
$30 at Lekker Home | Buy
-
Tea Lovers To Go Cup
Tea lovers unite, there is finally a ceramic to go cup just for us! This adorable ceramic cup has a rubber lid and rubber holder to keep tea in and hands cool, respectively. But here is the truly marvelous part: wrap the string of the tea bag around the little teapot-shaped button to keep everything tidy and in place. Genius!
$18 at Urban Outfitters | Buy
(Comes in both blue and red floral patterns.)
-
Soup and Sandwich Ceramic Tray
Finally, a classic comfort food combo in one convenient serving piece. Keep your soup steady and your sandwich in place with this smart ceramic tray. The uses are endless, but this time of year, tomato soup and a grilled cheese seem so right.
$30 at Uncommon Goods | Buy
-
X and O’s Smores
Win the heart of pretty much anyone by sending them a scrumptious set of smores. Delicious dark chocolate and gooey marshmallow make for a sweet treat perfect for sharing with the ones you love.
$25 at Williams-Sonoma | Buy
-
Ceramic Gingerbread Cookie Platter
-
Mechanical Pastry Bag
Bake like a pro with the mechanical pastry bag that has every attachment you need for this season’s spectacular sweets.
$28 at Williams-Sonoma | Buy
-
Message-in-a-Cookie
Don’t bother trying to write the perfect holiday message in icing this year. Instead, grab your message-in-a-cookie and let the cutter do all the work!
$20 at Sur La Table | Buy
(Comes with three fun designs!)
-
Tea Cupcake Kit
Tis the season for tea parties and cupcakes. Serve up some sophisticated sweets at this year’s party with reusable, silicon teacup-shaped molds.
-
Cranberry Pear Infusions
The perfect gourmet gift for the foodies and amateur mixologists on your list, with a karma-boosting benefit: fresh fruit will be donated to food banks with each purchase.
$35 at Donate Fruit | Buy
-
Brownie Pan Slice Solution
Perfectly even and perfectly baked, each slice is a bite of chocolate perfection.
$25 at CookinStuff | Buy
-
Gingerbread Cookie Mold
Make the perfect gingerbread house every time with this easy-to-use cookie mold.
$13 at Sur La Table | Buy
-
Stainless Steel Roaster with Rack
Roast your turkey in style with this stainless steel roaster this Thanksgiving, and for many more.
$160 at Williams Sonoma | Buy
(Comes with a meat thermometer!)
-
Seasons Serving Plate
A serving plate just the right size for a generous helping of mom’s turkey and stuffing.
$28 at Redefine Home | Buy
-
Odd Shape Sake Set
A slightly off kilter sake set. And don’t worry, it looked like that before you started drinking.
$26 at Pearl River | Buy
-
Large Gravy Boat
A modern (and dishwasher safe!) way to serve this year’s gravy.
$6 at Crate and Barrel | Buy
-
Mangowood Bowl and Pears
The unique mangowood bowl will look just as nice empty after the delicious pears have been gobbled up.
$50 at Harry & David | Buy
-
Olive Oil and Balsamic Cool Combo Wrap
Lime olive oil and white balsamic vinegar tasty enough to slurp straight out of the bottle.
$37 at The Olive Press | Buy
-
Mini Halloween Caramel Apples
Way too good to pass out to trick-or-treaters. Keep these treats for yourself!
$33 at Williams-Sonoma | Buy
-
MMMunchy Spider Bowl
Want to send a special Halloween gift to someone far away? Check out this munchy spider bowl.
$25 at Harry & David | Buy
-
Hand Painted Wine Glass for Bridesmaids
These wine glasses make for a beautiful (and personalized) bridesmaid gift for your favorite ladies.
-
Marshmallow Twig Roaster
If you’re planning on making s’mores this season, be sure you’ve got this marshmallow twig roaster on hand!
(Perfect for camping and sleepovers!)
-
Some Like it Hot - Spice Gift Box
A fiery gift box which includes a premium blend of the hottest spices around.
$20 at The Spice House | Buy
-
Apple Bottle Opener
A seasonal take on the traditional bottle opener that serves as both functional and decorative.
-
Ceramic Cheese Plate
A cheese platter that’s not only cute, but helpful. Decorated with party-pleasing cheeses and protected by a little bird, this platter is sure to turn heads.
$28 at Redefine Home | Buy
-
Germack Cherry Berry Nut Mix - No Salt
The incredibly healthy blend of raw nuts and dried fruits is a winning combination. Wonderful for healthy snacking and an impressive party dish or gift item.
$9 at Germack Pistachio Company | Buy
-
Water Bottle Ice Cubes
The simplicity and genius of this makes the mind boggle.
$5 at Think Geek | Buy
-
2007 Pey-Marin “Trois Filles” Pinot Noir.
Dubbed the Prince of Pinot. Received an astounding 94 points for the 2007 vintage. A fresh, seductive middle weight combination of flavors that stimulate the mouth and melt into a tangy, dusty and lingering finish.
$39 at Pey-Marin Vineyards | Buy
-
Organic Fair Trade Hot Chocolate
Organic, fair trade and delicious all in one tin? That’s enough good Karma to last you through the year.
$10 at Lake Champlain Chocolates | Buy
-
MixStix Wooden Mixing Spoons
Work on your rim shots while waiting for the sauce to thicken.
$12 at Kate's Paperie | Buy
-
Hot/Cold Coffee Cozies
Save your weight in cardboard with a reusable (and hip) coffee cozy. These come as a set of 3, so gift one or two to pals or keep all three for yourself in strategic places: Car, purse, pocket, desk drawer.
(Ittybittybag)
-
Spider Cupcake Holder
The boys will laugh at the girls may scream- but as long as there is still a cupcake inside, they’ll all be thrilled.
$2 at Crate and Barrel | Buy
-
Carnivore Blends Spice Set
Make your favorite meat-eaters blood pump with 7 custom spice blends in handy magnetic jars.
(Gneiss Spice)
-
The Cowgirl Collection
If you like cheese, you will fall in love with this Cowgirl Creamery collection. These delicious, decadent and divine foods are truly one of California’s treasures.
$55 at Cowgirl Creamery | Buy
-
Pumpkin Ice Cream Starter
Kick off the season with this do-it-yourself pumpkin ice cream kit. Drizzle caramel on top for the ultimate Fall treat.
$12 at Williams Sonoma | Buy
(Makes 2 quarts!)
-
Vine Cast Iron Tea Pot
Not your average tea pot, this cast iron masterpiece is covered in intricate vine design and serves as both kettle and decoration.
-
Clean Bottle
If you’re anything like me, there are things stuck on the bottom of your water bottle that will simply not come off, no matter how hard you scrub, or how long you soak. But, wait! Not anymore. Just screw the bottom off now, and mystery spots are history! Excellent.
$10 at Clean Bottle | Buy
-
Hanging Wine Rack
If kitchen space is an issue, don’t make your wine suffer behind closed cabinets. Instead, hang bottles on the wall in this sturdy wine rack.
-
Baking Illustrated
-
Cupcake Stacker
As cupcakes continue to invade kitchens worldwide, make yours stand out with this stylish (and convenient) cupcake stacker.
-
Wine: From Grape to Glass
This coffee table book takes you on a journey through the winemaking process - from the grape to your glass - with visually stunning images along the way.
$39 at Barnes and Noble | Buy
-
Thumb Wine Decanter
This unique spin on the wine decanter offers an easier way to serve wine. Say goodbye to drips and hello to fuller flavor.
$20 at World Market | Buy
-
Tweet Treats Cupcake Set
Let your cupcake decorating take flight with this sweet set of wrappers and toothpicks.
$12 at Urban Outfitters | Buy
-
Bamboo Wine Bottle Rack
Hold up to 9 bottles in this Asian-inspired (and kitchen-friendly) bamboo wine rack.
$30 at Kitchen Kapers | Buy
-
The Great Cupcake Pan
Regular-sized cupcakes are so passe. So get in on the next big thing with this giant cupcake pan.
$36 at Williams Sonoma | Buy
-
Fleur De Lis Wine Stoppers
Wow your next dinner party with wine stoppers made from actual iron gates.
$22 at Knobstoppers | Buy
-
Chalk Note Stemless Wine Glass
Never again worry about whose cup is whose. Put out some chalk and let your guests customize their own wine glasses.
-
Custom Beehive Cups
Plastic keg cups with a sophisticated pattern and customized initial. Talk about worlds colliding.
$120 at Neiman Marcus | Buy
-
Collapsible Basket and Cover
A sturdy frame and a variety of cover options make this basket a star.
$51 at Garnet Hill | Buy
-
Tovolo Yellow Groovy Pop Molds
You can remove them one at a time, which means you have to really think about eating your third one at a sitting.
-
Cabela’s All-Meat Breakfast Special
Because nothing would make him happier than bacon with a side of sausage.
-
Little Robots PDF
It’s 3 a.m., and you’re cutting out little robots so you can glue them to toothpicks. Best parent ever.
$2 at Goldylocks | Buy
-
Drop Tea Infuser
A futuristic pyrex tea infuser that takes us one step closer to Tea. Earl Grey. Hot.
$35 at Supermarket | Buy
-
Bubble and Brown Baker Set
You’ve destroyed two pads of steel wool trying to remove the crust from your old Pyrex baking dish.
-
Victoria Bunny Egg Cozies
Uh. Product designer? Bunnies don’t lay eggs.
$25 at Dean and DeLuca | Buy
-
Organic Tea Towel . Flourish
The kitchen will look cleaner if you have new dishtowels.
$18 at Bird Mafia | Buy
-
Egg Platter
Nothing like a few dozen dye-stained deviled eggs to get an Easter brunch rolling.
$20 at Crate and Barrel | Buy
-
Sculptured Bundt Cake Form Large
A genius glass bundt pan cooks more evenly and shows you where the cake might be sticking.
-
Easter Cupcake Stencils
Hold one of these babies over your cupcake, sprinkle sugar or cocoa, and you’ve got a perfect springtime silhouette.
$5 at Crate and Barrel | Buy
-
Bamboo Compost Pail
Because a non-eco compost pail is too ironic.
$52 at The Field Museum Online | Buy
-
Roost Amethyst Salt and Pepper Shaker
Magical salt and pepper shakers. Via Design for Mankind
$100 at Velocity Art and Design | Buy
-
Teas Glass Mug
We have a set of glass mugs, and they’ve become the go-to glassware in our house. Apparently, seeing your beverage from all sides is somehow preferable.
-
Polished Stainless Steel Traditional Champagne Bucket
It’s always best to be prepared for celebration.
-
Urban Pitcher
Suddenly you’re nostalgic for the days when you had a pint glass of milk with your breakfast.
-
Turquoise French Butter Keeper
Water at the base of the crock seals your butter, keeping it fresh and room temperature. Extra-buttery toast for you.
$20 at Aloha Carol Ann | Buy
-
Linen Bistro Apron
Honestly? Your apron could have a train, and you’d still wind up with flour all over your clothes.
-
Digit Spice Jar
If only the numbers went up higher, these would make a killer advent calendar.
$5 at Anthropologie | Buy
-
Functional Rolling Stamp
Spell anything you want with this multi-letter stamp. Lets your crafty friend make more professional looking indecent cards.
$25 at Nothing Elegant | Buy
-
R & M Pie Bird Set of Two
Bake these hollow pie birds into your Thanksgiving pies to let them vent. Also, for adorableness.
-
X-RAY Corset Cupcake Toppers
Sexy/creepy. Plus, a helpful reminder that you’ll need a corset to fit into your jeans after all these cupcakes. It’s cupcake flair and a public service announcement.
-
Stanley Classic Lunchbox Cooler and Bottle Combo
Everybody’s image could use a little more Working Class Hero.
-
Arnaud Soubeyran Marshmallow Ropes
These extra-long marshmallow sticks were featured in Domino a zillion years ago, and have been sold out since. They’re so fun (and photogenic) with cups of cocoa. Stock up for camping, or freeze them so you have them on hand when the air turns crisp.
$29 at Mel and Rose | Buy
-
Le Whif Chocolate Inhaler
A breath of fresh chocolate. The Le Whif gives you your chocolate fix in vapor form. I’m surprised this is legal.
Via Wired
$14 at Le Labo Shop | Buy
-
Stubb’s Legendary Combo
Give the new dad a break from his steady diet of reheated casseroles. This combo includes smoked whole beef brisket and a slab of smoked baby back ribs.
via Esquire
$89 at Stubb's BBQ | Buy
-
Palo Alto Firefighters Pepper Sauce
Yum! I’m not usually much for hot sauce, but this is a winner.
My husband calls the Palo Alto Firefighters Pepper Sauce “cowboy syrup,” and and puts it on everything. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him using it as an ice cream topping.
The sauce is savory with just a tiny bit of kick, and it’s excellent with barbecue or breakfast dishes like eggs or fried potatoes. Try it, and see if you don’t order a few more bottles.
$5 at Palo Alto Firefighters Local 1319 | Buy
-
Au Chocolat Gift Tea Set
She adores chocolate, but she’s watching her weight. And you’re no saboteur.
$34 at Mighty Leaf | Buy
(On sale, regularly $42.)
-
Whirly Pop
Blow your kid’s mind on Easter morning. Three days later, find a half-eaten, five-inch lollipop stuck to the dog.
Awesome party favor, by the way.
$3 at Hometown Favorites | Buy
-
Chocolate Covered Peeps
Sugar-coated bunny marshmallows “for the sophisticate.”
$13 at Chocolate.com | Buy
-
Biodegradable Cold Cups
It’s surprisingly hard to find attractive, disposable party cups at all. Now you can have your pretty cups, and feel morally superior about your eco-consciousness.
$7 at Branch Home | Buy
(For fifty cups. Bulk pricing available.)
-
Ultimate Egg
A set of three chocolate and praline eggs packed inside actual egg shells. Rad!
This is exactly the kind of thing I’d try to make on my own. Twelve hours later, cut to me spooning melted chocolate into my mouth and weeping.
$29 at Bissinger's Confections | Buy
(For three eggs.)
-
Sugar Egg
I have lovely memories of peering into the miniature worlds inside sugar eggs, but they’re nearly impossible to find now. Perhaps it’s because they taste terrible.
And yet, it’s impossible to deny my kid the magic of hoarding his sugar egg, until he finds it covered with ants.
$18 at Bissinger's Confections | Buy
-
Stainless Steel Stemware Plate Clips
Hands free cocktail mingling with your wine glass and a plate. If you use a blue tooth headset at the same time, you can sell insurance while you mingle, which is so endearing.
$15 at The Container Store | Buy
(For a set of six.)
-
Vacu Vin Pineapple Corer
I know, specialized gadgets are lame. However, have you seen how cheap a whole pineapple is when compared to a ready-to-eat pineapple?
But you really want this thing because it makes a glass for your next cocktail. You need drink umbrellas. And rum.
-
Make Your Own Ice Cream Flavor
Customized ice cream. Was there ever a more perfect gift for a pregnant woman?
-
Gummi of the Month Club
A different gummi candy each month. Excellent for your dentist, and for your butt.
$139 at Candy Warehouse | Buy
-
Beef Jerky of the Month Club
Mmmmeat! Six months of high quality beef jerky, and a new flavor every month. Subscribers receive half a pound of jerky for six months. Amusing, and delicious.
$108 at House of Jerky | Buy
-
Assorted French Macaroons
From the DesignSponge Gift Guide.
So much easier to ship than cupcakes.
$12 at Sucre Bakery | Buy
-
BottleBob Bottle Cap Punch
Core 77’s 77 Design Gifts Under $77
A hole punch that creates a perfectly straw-sized hole in bottle caps. Sweet party trick.
-
Awesome Office Supply Gift Box
Treat the office to a little pre-holiday girth enhancement. The Zingerman’s Office box feeds about twelve people and includes: Sourcream Coffeecake, Koeze’s Cream-Nut Peanut Butter Clusters, Italian Biscotti, Peeled Snacks all natural dried Mangoes, all natural Smooch Lion Gummis, Virginia Peanuts, Zingerman’s Freshly Roasted Coffee, Homemade Spiced Pecans, two Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, a Ginger Jump Up Cookie, and a couple Magic Brownies.
That last one should be especially popular.
$150 at Zingerman's | Buy
-
Fleur de Sel Caramels
Salty-sweet caramels coated in dark chocolate. You really do love her.
$23 at Recchiuti Confections | Buy
-
Van Gogh Gumdrops Cookie Kit
All the fun of decorating cookies without the mess of baking. Comes with twelve blank sugar cookies, and ten food-coloring markers.
Great for busy moms, or far-away aunts and uncles who’d like to send some cheer. Also makes a great birthday party activity and take-home favor.
$45 at Gumdrop Cookie Shop | Buy
-
Tabasco Mini Packs
-
Kahlua Coffee Liqueur (50 ML)
An airplane bottle of Kahlua makes Christmas morning extra merry.
$3 at Beverages and More | Buy
-
Peeled Snacks Fruit Picks Variety Pack
Holy holy – these dried fruit and nut packs are delicious. They taste so fresh, much more lively than their bulk-bin counterparts. Peeled even wraps the nuts separately so they don’t get all soggy in the packet.
Great to keep in the car for an an emergency blood sugar dip, and there are so many flavor options. The pears are my favorite, but the Shock-olate (pears, apricots, almonds, walnuts & dark chocolate) is worth trying too.
$25 at Peeled Snacks | Buy
-
Tuscan Barbecue Polenta Chips
As it turns out, deep-fried polenta is a great idea. Salty, crispy, delicious, with a slight corn-nut aftertaste. The company sent a big box of snacks, and these were gone immediately.
While you’re at it, try their avocado-oil fried potato chips. Almost makes you feel virtuous about eating chips.
$26 at Good Health Natural Products | Buy
(For a pack of 12.)
-
Spicy Catch Up
Fancied up with red bell peppers and a hint of wine, this highbrow condiment turns regular hamburgers into wham-bamburgers.
$5 at Made in Napa Valley | Buy
-
Vosges Gift Set of Exotic Mini Candy Bars
Great gift for your weekend hosts. If you’re on the receiving end, hide the Barcelona bar for secret eating.
$25 at Vosages Chocolates | Buy
-
Pre Fab Chocolate Party
This kit comes with everything you need to throw a simple chocolate party: two balloon sculptures, coordinating fabric banner, graphics for invites, paper boxes for displaying chocolates, and a handpicked list of unique chocolates to stock the party.
So much better than a wine tasting.
$135 at Food+Flower+Style | Buy
-
Chocolate Letters
This product just expanded my world. A selection of possible uses for your new chocolate letters:
-Names on birthday cakes
-Personalized after-dinner cupcakes
-Monogrammed sweets to leave on your guest room pillows
-Place-cards for the kids’ table
-Wedding favors
-Sending inside-joke candy grams.
You can order letter by letter, or choose one of phrases the site offers.
via Jordan Ferney
$3 at Food+Flower+Style | Buy
-
Dom Perignon ‘99
A bottle for the happy couple to open on their five-year anniversary. Or in the hotel room after the ceremony.
$134 at Beverages and More | Buy
-
Miracle Fruit
I love the idea of throwing a tasting party around a small berry that makes everything taste sweet for about thirty minutes afterward.
Via kottke
$60 at Miracle Fruit Man | Buy
-
Clase Azul Reposado Tequila
This perilously smooth sipping tequila is produced in Jalisco and aged in oak. Comes in a handmade, hand painted Talavera bottle.
$80 at Mission Liquor | Buy
-
Del Maguey Minero Mezcal
A single-village mezcal prepared in a clay still with bamboo tubing. This one is only mildly smoky, so if your dad is a tequila fan who’d like to try something funkier, start here.
$70 at Hi Time Wine | Buy
-
Hendrick’s Gin
Hendrick’s is a slightly exotic gin made with cucumbers and rose petals. Its softness makes a particularly refreshing gin and tonic.
Bonus points for the old-timey medicinal bottle, which fits right in with dad’s steam-punk lifestyle.
$39 at Internet Wines and Spirits | Buy
-
1997 Niepoort Vintage Port
Your dad knows his port, so you want something really good, but not $400 a bottle good, you know? This is relatively young, as vintage ports go, but ready to drink. Throw in a few cigars while you’re at it.
$150 at Wine Access | Buy
-
Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier Marzen
If your dad’s a beer drinker, try a selection of interesting options from Bottle Trek.
This Marzen has been around since 1678. It’s an unusual savory beer with a smoky flavor some compare to roasted meat or sausage.
$6 at Bottle Trek | Buy
-
Clear Creek Pear Brandy
The folks at Clear Creek Distillery in Oregon grow these pears inside the bottle, scrub the bottle and fruit by hand, and pour in their subtle eau de vie.
I found out about them on a road trip to Portland with our Mighty Junior editor, Melissa Summers. Her husband warned her not to come home without a few bottles, because he uses the brandy to make unstoppable pear sidecars. Now he can get his fix online.
(Bottle sans pear is $40.)
$77 at Amarco Wines | Buy
-
Macallan Fine Oak 15 Year Old Scotch
You don’t want to mess with a man’s scotch. If your dad’s a scotch drinker you probably already know what he likes, so get that.
If your dad appreciates good scotch, but isn’t brand-loyal (yet), it’s tough to go wrong with Macallan.
$79 at Beverages and More | Buy
-
Hangar One Vodka
Hangar One Vodka is made by hand in an old military airplane hangar on the San Francisco Bay, and it’s a beautiful sipping vodka or drink base. They use small pot stills instead of column stills, and Hangar One contains none of the weird synthetic flavorings used by larger brands. Tie a bow around the neck, and throw it in the freezer next to a couple of tall shot glasses.
$32 at Caddell Williams | Buy
-
La Favorite Rhum Agricole Ambre
Produced by one of the last family-owned distilleries in Martinique, La Favorite isn’t made with molasses, but fresh-pressed sugar cane juice. Dad can sip it, or make an unforgettable block-party punch.
$47 at Internet Wines and Spirits | Buy
-
Basil Hayden Bourbon
A light, Kentucky blended-bourbon with a dry finish. Bring your dad a rocks glass and ask him how business is going.
$40 at Beverages and More | Buy
-
Licorice Sampler
Either you pick out the black jelly beans, or you buy them in bulk and keep them in your bag. If you know a licorice lover, this will keep them satisfied for weeks.
$40 at The Candy Store | Buy
-
De Loach 2006 Green Valley Pinot Noir
This is a bottle of wine to begin the evening, before you’re too tipsy to notice what you’re drinking. A fruity, slightly spicy pinot that reminds me of ripe, dark cherries and the smell of leather.
$39 at Fine Wine House | Buy
-
Key Lime Apples
I would very much like you to try these. Crispy, freeze-dried applies coated in dark chocolate. Once you have a box, please call me so we can exclaim over them. Thank you.
-
Bodin Sourdough
This has become one of our favorite gifts to send out-of-towners. Fresh-baked sourdough shipped from San Francisco to your doorstep. You get one 1 lb. long loaf, one 1.5 lb. round loaf and three 7” sandwich rolls. Once you have this in your picnic basket, nothing else matters.
-
Bubbies Pickles
My friend Sara puts together these amazing Fantasy Burger Nights where you can have a burger exactly how you want it. For me, the ideal burger is all about the pickle, and I discovered Bubbies on our grocery run. Bubbies are fresh, crunchy, spicy, salty perfection. If you appreciate a good dill pickle, you’ll find yourself hoarding these.
$5 at Organic Direct | Buy
-
Piper Sonoma Brut
I’m a sparkling wine fan, and this is the bottle I turn to for mini celebrations: first picnic of spring, crossing the last item from my to do list, finally vacuuming out the car. Also, the heavier base makes it easier to balance on the grass next to your lawn chair. Bonus.
-
Boccalone Salami Sampler
Gorgeous small-batch salami made by hand in the Bay Area. They cold-cure the meats, giving them less salt and more time. Everything Boccalone makes is “seasoned by hand, tied by hand, hung by hand, checked by hand, and packaged by hand.”
From their hands to my mouth.
$40 at Boccalone Salumi | Buy
-
Cup-a-Cake Saver
Why go to all that trouble piping on a pretty little frosting design if it’s just gonna end up smashed against some aluminum foil? Excellent for lunch boxes and romantic, celebratory picnics.
If you need more cupcake-carrying power, you know what to do.
$3 at Container Store | Buy
-
Personalized M&Ms
Choose M&Ms in any color, with any message you like. It turns out monogrammed M&Ms taste much classier.
(For four, 7 oz. bags.)
-
Poco Dolce Bittersweet Tiles
Friends of ours included these in hotel baskets for members of their wedding party, and they’re one of those perfect things. The packaging is impeccable, each “tile” is just the right amount of chocolate, and the crunchy sea salt sprinkled on top brings out the savory notes in the burnt caramel. I wish I had one right now.
$18 at Poco Dolce | Buy
-
Brownie of the Month Club
It’s really a shame you can’t choose what time of the month these will arrive.
$84 at Zingerman's | Buy
(Price varies by number of months.)
-
Pecan Trio Assortment
So fresh, they taste like someone just made them in the kitchen.
$28 at Cane River Pecan Company | Buy
-
Benton’s Smoked Country Bacon
You’re lucky bacon comes from pigs, because if it came from angels, you’d probably still have to kill them. And then God would be extra pissed at you.
From Esquire Magazine’s Second Annual All Meat Gift Guide.
$20 at Benton's Hams | Buy
-
Partnership in a Lobster Trap
Rent a lobster trap for a season.
This program ships you all the lobsters caught in “your trap” during a single lobster season. You can have them shipped to whomever, wherever, whenever you choose. You’re guaranteed at least 40 lobsters, and when you ship four or more at once they throw in dessert and some shellfish.
I find this a hilarious, but it would make a tough-to-top gift for a gourmand.
$2,995 at Catch a Piece of Maine | Buy
-
Lavender or Rosemary Salt
So, technically, you have to order this by phone, but it’s worth it. A perfect host gift, this salt and the rosemary salt are amazing sprinkled over tomatoes, scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes.
$8 at Lavender Farm | Buy
-
Mister Mustard Sweet Hot Mustard
Awesome retro label aside, this is my favorite hotdog mustard. It’s delicious, and it has a little kick, but it’s not trying to be more than it is. Excellent to have on hand for post-feast sandwich fests.
-
Scharffen Berger Chocolate Covered Ginger
Crystalized ginger covered in 99 percent cacao unsweetend chocolate. The bite of unsweeted chocolate is an excellent complement to the spicy, sweet center. I keep them in my desk drawer.
They’re great with sparkling wine, or have a few with your evening coffee – so flavorful that three or four will satisfy. Of course, that need not stop you from pouring the entire container into your mouth.
$9 at Scharffe Berger | Buy
-
Sigg Thermos
There are few things as pleasant as opening a thermos to find that your coffee is still toasty.
-
Bacon Salt Sampler
Bacon potatoes, bacon popcorn, bacon ice cream. There’s nothing in your way.
$13 at BaconSalt.com | Buy
-
Microbrewed Beer of the Month Club
Each month, you get twelve, 12-oz. beers from two different lightly distributed U.S. microbreweries. The pretzels you have to take care of yourself.
$60 at Beer of the Month Club | Buy
(For three months.)
-
Build Your Cellar Premium Wine Club
The good life delivered to your doorstep. Every month, subscribers receive two superior bottles of red wine from acclaimed wineries with 90+ point ratings within the past three released vintages.
-
The Z Club
An excellent gift for folks who already have too much stuff. Zingerman’s seeks out rare foodstuffs and ships them direct. Every box is a surprise, but past shipments have included long-“extinct” raw stilton cheese, marmalade made from tiny Southeast Asian oranges, and an exotic elixir made from the tears of virgins. Delicious.
$600 at Zingerman's | Buy
(For four shipments of 8-10 items each.)
-
Sigg Water Bottles
I adore this thing. It keeps tap water cool and crisp, reigns in my expensive and destructive plastic water bottle purchases, and helps me keep track of how much water I drink in a day. Also, the bottle opening is little, so I’m not constantly sloshing water all over myself while I’m on the treadmill. It comes in a kazillion colors and designs, but my favorite is the swirly black and white. Go get one.
-
Masala Chai
A subtle, authentic Chai Blend that doesn’t taste as though someone mixed lumps of brown sugar into the tea. Spicy, cozy, and delicious.
$8 at Portsmouth Tea Company | Buy
(2.2 oz)
-
Tobasco Gallons
Hotter. HOTTER. Enough Tabasco to last you at least a week.
$37 at Country Store | Buy
-
Giant Finocchiana
Four pounds of exquisite artisan salami made with naturally raised pork and wild fennel seed. You’ll practically be able to smell it through your computer screen.
$50 at Zingerman's | Buy
(4 lbs.)
-
BBQ Sauce of the Month Club
Show him you understand how much grilling season means to him. He’ll receive two bottles of small-batch barbecue sauce every month. Sign him up for three, six, or twelve months.
$60 at Amazing Clubs | Buy
((for three months)
-
Laphroaig 10 Year Old Cask Strength
This cask-strength single malt tastes best when mellowed with a bit of spring water and a round of golf.
-
6-Cup King-Size Muffin Pan
Lets you make extra-tall cupcakes and muffins, like this. (via Not Martha)
-
Self-Seal Tea Bags
These will only seem revolutionary if you’ve been heat-sealing your hand-filled tea bags, or using the unattractive draping tube that cligs moistly to the side of your teacup. Self-seal bags let you spoon in your whole-leaf tea, then simply press shut. Lovely, lovely. Thanks, Heather!
-
Dagoba Gift Box
Upgrade the emergency Hershey’s bar your mom keeps in her purse. This gift box contains twelve bars of top-notch organic chocolate, and a can of cacao powder for her morning mochas.
-
My Jones Custom Soda
A case of Jones Soda with the photo of your choice on the label. Definitely use the one of your cat.
$35 at Jones Soda | Buy
(For a twelve pack.)
-
Stout Cheese Board
A selection of cheeses meant to be consumed with a solid stout – sort of a more masculine version of high tea.
-
Blue Bottle Coffee Subscription
Blue Bottle is a San Francisco-based small batch roaster that’s a little OCD about coffee. As their site says, “We take freshness and small-batch roasting to an extreme not considered practical anywhere else in the coffee business.” What does that mean exactly? Essentially, a cup of coffee so delicious that you feel it in your spine. The good news for you? They offer bean gift subscriptions. You need never sleep again.
$18 at Blue Bottle Coffee | Buy
(Per month)
-
Variety Box of Sausage
OK. Nothing is funnier than sending someone a “variety box of sausages.” These sausages are made to order, and this box contains two five-pound packages of Italian Sausage and one each of the Classic and the Spicy. Ha. Sausage box.
(10 lbs)
-
Apple-ation Apple Brandy
God bless a vintner with a pet project. Guy Davis decided to take advantage of the organic apple orchards in the Russian River Valley to make small batch apple brandy. Davis eschews the usual practice of fermenting just the apple juice; however, he leaves the peels and fruit in during fermentation for a deeper apple flavor. The results are spectacular.
$35 at Davis Family Vineyards | Buy
-
Rejuvenation Gift Set
Tea Forte’s choice teas come in aesthetically pleasing pyramid-shaped bags. The mesh bags even have wired tags that hook over the side of your cup, so you’ll never have to fish around in scalding tea for an escapee. This soothing gift set comes with a lidded tea cup, tiny trays for the used tea bags, and a selection of whole-leaf teas. It’s a bundle of calm escape, and you don’t even have to wrap it.
-
Old Cavendish Fruitcake
I’m mostly listing this because I think sending fruitcake on Christmas is funny, but also because these cakes got good reviews around the office. They’re packed with nuts and real dried fruits, as opposed to the weirdly colored fruity gels you find in most cakes. The consensus seemed to be, “If you like fruitcake, this is good fruitcake.”
$23 at Old Cavendish | Buy
(16 oz., shipping included)
-
Garlic Crusher
STOCKING STUFFER GUIDE An easy-to-clean garlic press that won’t leave chunks of old, dried garlic in your fresh new meal.
$15 at Cooper Hewitt | Buy
-
Snack-Size Deep Fryer
Finally! A deep fryer small enough to keep on the counter for all of his convenience frying needs. Seriously though, fresh potato chips? Yes, thank you.
$40 at Improvements Catalog | Buy
-
Stout Cheese Board
A selection of cheeses meant to be consumed with a solid stout – sort of a more masculine version of high tea.
-
Club Recchiuti
They say buying experiences makes you happier than buying things. Once a month, set aside an evening and share a box of perfect chocolates over glasses of champagne.
(For a three-month membership.)
-
Jerky Society 3 Months
Eight ounces of top-quality beef jerky every month for three months. Nothing says love like a meat subscription.
-
Coral Chinese Peony Luncheon Napkins
So what does it say about us as a society that our disposable products are becoming more attractive than the dishes and napkins we’re supposed to use every day? One thing’s for sure, we enjoy a good luncheon.
$6 at Plum Party | Buy
(Set of 20, 6.5" x 6.5".)
-
Earl Grey Lavender Tea
This Earl Grey with a hint of sweet lavender is a nice update on a classic. Ideal between bites of shortbread, the tea comes in cute little boxes that make you feel like you’re opening a present for yourself every time you make a cup of tea.
$8 at Revolution Tea | Buy
(For twenty servings.)
-
Hostess Twinkies Non-Stick Baking Pan
You’re craving Twinkies, but you don’t remember them tasting quite so much like formaldehyde when you were a kid. This Twinkie kit lets you make homemade treats with buttery cake and real whipped cream. Because what the world really needs is a way to make Twinkies more delicious. (via Not Martha)
$20 at Brylane Home | Buy
-
Food Chopper
Our friend Jason swears by this timesaver. Put an onion inside and whomp, whomp, you have a diced onion. Your omelets, sauces, and broths will be veggietastic henceforth.
$29 at The Pampered Chef | Buy
-
Cut-N-Seal
This device seals in the peanut butter and jelly and makes an attractive, sofa-safe pocket sandwich for your kids. Way cooler than using the top of a glass.
$9 at The Pampered Chef | Buy
-
Numi Tea Flower Chest
Tea that blooms. Each tea rosette can be brewed up to three times, and they look spectacular sea creatures in a glass teapot.
$45 at Sur La Table | Buy
-
Lisbon Lemon Olive Oil
Yum! This is my new favorite host gift. It’s about the same as a cheap bottle of wine, but so much more unique and thoughtful. Plus, it’s lemony delicious – fantastic in mashed potatoes, pasta salads, or as a light dressing for veggies or white fish.
$11 at Stonehouse | Buy
(7.61 oz)
-
Anchor Old Potrero 18th Century Style Rye
A pet project of the Anchor Steam Brewery on San Francisco’s Potrero Hill, Old Poetrero Rye is their attempt to recreate the original American whiskey. Rye is nearly impossible to find in bars or liquor stores, so if you know a whiskey lover, this is a can’t-miss gift. Old Potrero is made in a small copper pot still at the distillery, and aged for a year in Oak barrels. There’s never enough to go around, so get yours while it’s in season and available.
$61 at Beverages and More | Buy
-
Play and Freeze Ice Cream Maker
ON SALE All right already, people! I decided against posting this ice cream maker, but then I got a bazillion emails from people suggesting it. As I am a slave to popular opinion, here it is. You put the ingredients in, add ice, and then play with it like a ball. You can toss it, roll it, whatever. Makes a pint of ice cream in about twenty minutes.
(Regularly $35.)
-
Collapsible Funnel
A rubber funnel that folds up flat when you’re not using it.
$24 at Scandinavian Details | Buy
(6.5")
-
Ingenuitea
My friend Heather cannot say enough about this teapot. The site has a very clear description of how it works: “When tea is ready, simply place it atop your cup. This will cause a valve at the bottom to release: crystal-clear tea flows down, while the mesh filter retains all the leaves.” Golf claps all around.
$19 at Adagio Teas | Buy
-
Laptop Lunch Bento Box Set
A reader wrote in to say: “This is an awesome lunchbox for kids, my standby birthday gift! Compartment setup really encourages people to avoid pre-packaged foods in favor of more eco-friendly (and healthy) options. Everyone on the playground has been asking me about ours.” The site calls them American-style bento boxes and says they’re dishwasher safe. Sounds good to me.
-
SleekStor Collapsible Measuring Cups
Neat! If you’re short on space, these useful silicone measuring cups smoosh into flat discs. You throw them in a drawer, and then pop them out into full sized cups when you’re ready to use them. They come in several colors and are dishwasher safe in your top rack.
$20 at Chef Resource | Buy
-
Twig Cream and Sugar Set
It’s like animated Disney birds suddenly went into business making charming tableware!
?Guest posted by Evany Thomas$105 at Koo de Kir | Buy
(Silver plate, 3")
-
Club Recchiuti
So all the “need”s have already turned to “have”s on the happy couple’s registry? Surprise them with a steady supply of treats from one of San Francisco’s best chocolatiers. Possibilities include rich sauces, unbelievable truffles, s’more kits, and more.
?Guest posted by Evany Thomas$90 at Recchiuti Confections | Buy
(Price reflects a three-month membership. Six-, nine-, and twelve-month subscriptions are also available.)
-
Ulu Knife
The traditional Native Alaskan Inupiat Indian Ulu knife puts the cutting power right in the palm of your hand, letting you slice and dice with tender precision.
?Guest posted by Evany Thomas -
Snacks on the Run Gift
All the kids love a good snack. The twelve tins in Dean and Deluca’s box of treats includes dark chocolate orange peel, rum cordials, kona beans, milk chocolate caramels; German berries, chocolate mints, licorice and sanded fruit salad; smoked almonds, pistachios, cashews and mixed nuts.
-
Yoga and Chocolate Chakra Box
Ha! Chocolate to align your chakras. The premise is that you have seven chakras that put out different energies in your body. You’re supposed to eat each truffle while sitting in a particular yoga pose to stimulate the various energies. It’s a tour of your spirit. Or a box of really good chocolate with an inspirational book. Either way, you can’t go wrong.
$36 at Vosages Chocolates | Buy
-
Tuscan Pepper Mill
Why is it so hard to find an attractive, functional pepper mill?
$85 at Bergdorf Goodman | Buy
( 10" H)
-
So Smooth Bundle
OK, I know you intended to prepare politically correct, highly nutritious, organically certified meals for the whole family, and then pop them in the blender for baby, but seriously. You’re tired. Homemade Baby delivers organic fruit and veggie baby food to your door. You go take a nap.
$24 at Homemade Baby | Buy
-
Mighty Leaf Tea Sampler
Delicious! When I admitted to being a tea freak, a bunch of my readers (most notably, Elise) sent notes urging us to post about Mighty Leaf Teas. I feel silly to have forgotten about Mighty Leaf for so long, because they’re an old favorite. Mighty Leaf packs tasty, whole-leaf tea into convenient, silky tea bags. (Most other tea bags are filled with crushed, bitter leaf flakes that are practically undrinkable.) This sampler gives your favorite tea snob 108 moments of peace, and many of the teas are even better on second brewing. Includes: Breakfast Americana, Earl Gold, Vanilla Bean, Orange Jasmine, Marrakesh Mint, Green Tea Tropical, African Nectar, Chamomile Citrus, and Mint Melange. (If you want the tea, but don’t need the pretty box and menu, you can purchase a refill box for only $54.)
-
One Dozen Custom Fortune Cookies
VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT GUIDE Custom fortune cookies let you choose your fate. You get a dozen fortune cookies, each with a different fortune written by you. Present them as a package, or slip a few into your carryout order when your sweetie isn’t looking.
$23 at Custom Fortune Cookies | Buy
-
Organic Calming Chamomile Herbal Tea
ON SALE Though I’m a tea fanatic, I’ve never much enjoyed herbal teas. This chamomile tea has made me a convert. When you open the tin, you’ll find a jumble of sweet-smelling, whole chamomile flowers that look lovely in your cup. It has a touch of lavender and jasmine that make it a bit spicier and more honeyed than an average chamomile tea, but the effects are just as soothing. The site suggests reusing brewed blossoms in your bath, which sounds just fine.
$11 at The Healing Sun | Buy
(Regularly $13. 1.9oz - makes approx. 40 cups)
-
White Monogrammed Candy and Cake Boxes
Baking porn for the meticulous homemaker in your life.
$27 at Williams-Sonoma | Buy
( For a set of eighteen, ten, or six, depending on box size.)
-
Henckels Pro S 8-Inch High Carbon Stainless Steel Chef’s Knife
This knife makes me purr. We received one as a wedding gift years ago, and it still makes me smile every time I pull it out of the drawer. Hold one in your hand, and you’ll see what I mean. Resist the temptation to lick it, though. That smarts.
-
Chocolate Voodoo Doll
Five ounces of semi-sweet revenge. An excellent gift for the recently brokenhearted.
-
Gingerbread House Kit
It comes pre-baked with all the candy included. All you have to do is put it together and eat it.
-
Caja China
Roast an entire pig (or turkey, or rib slab) at a go. The Caja China comes with a charcoal pan and grid, large dripping pan, two stainless steel grills, four hooks, and a marinating syringe.
$269 at La Caja China | Buy
-
Bacon of the Month Club
Oh, my friends. Is there a more hedonistic gift than the gift of bacon? That is, the monthly gift of bacon? Delivered to your door by women in Playboy bunny costumes! OK that last bit isn’t true, but that would be just about the only thing that could make this better.
$190 at The Grateful Palate | Buy
(For a six-month subscription.)
-
Sunflower Seeds
Like peanut M&Ms, but with sunflower seeds inside. Wee bits of sweet.
$6 at The Cocoa Room | Buy
-
Good Morning Basket
Breakfast in a basket includes real maple syrup, wild blueberry syrup, lemon curd, raspberry peach champagne jam, and pancake or waffle mix. Now if only it came with bacon.
$50 at Stonewall Kitchen | Buy
-
Safari Chef Portable Grill
The Safari Chef is my new favorite camping gizmo. It’s a lightweight stove, grill, non-stick griddle, wok, and boiling pan in one. Everything stacks up nice and neat, and zips into a small carrying bag. My sister in law gave us one for Christmas, and now a few of our friends have bought their own after using ours. For portability and versatility, I prefer it to our two-burner Coleman stove. Not built for backpacking, but great for everything else.
-
Our Favorites Gift Set
If you have a picky friend, or one who just doesn’t need any more stuff, send along Dean & DeLuca’s box of chart-topping treats. It includes: Molinari Sopressata, Raye’s Down East Schooner Mustard, Starr Ridge olive oil, Dean & DeLuca’s Grafton Round cheddar; strawberry jam from Italy, espresso brownies with nuts, Aldo’s hazelnut biscotti, Dean & DeLuca’s Kansas City Blend coffee, Virginia salted peanuts, Bella Viva mixed dried fruits, and Brent’s Beer Brittle , and Bridgewater Bark.
$130 at Dean & DeLuca | Buy
-
Teastick
An artfully designed option for loose-tea drinkers, the teastick scoops up your tea, slides shut, and rests against the side of your mug or teacup while the tea brews. The designers claim that it supports the “optimum flow for perfect steeping.” I just think it’s pretty. Thanks for the tip, Heather!
-
1980s Retro Candy Gift Box
Lemon Heads, Atomic Fireballs, Pixy Stix, Jolly Ranchers… how long has it been since you ate a piece of candy that turned your tongue completely green? This Retro Candy Gift Box brings the Quickie Mart to your doorstep. Just skip the soda when you break open your Pop Rocks. We all know what happened to Mikey.
-
Aphrodisiac of the Month Club
Looking to spice things up? You could position a trampoline at the foot of the bed, install a pole near the closet, or bolt a trapeze to your bedroom ceiling. On second thought, try uncorking some champagne to accompany this month’s selection from the Aphrodisiac of the Month Club. A little less wild perhaps, but it greatly reduces the danger of anyone ending up in the emergency room with some uncomfortable explaining to do.
$108 at Aphrodisiac of the Month | Buy
(For three months.)
-
Flower Crystallization Kit
Cupcakes look so much more dignified with boutonnieres. You can buy sugared flowers from this site for around $2 a pop, or you can learn to make them yourself with this handy kit. Includes directions, a sample crystallized flower, and everything you need to crystallize about 75 flowers.
$24 at Candied Flowers | Buy
-
Love Nuts
Love Nuts aren’t nearly so risqu’e as they sound, though they do come in a close second to sex.
The lightly caramelized nuts are covered in silky milk chocolate, and then dusted with dark cocoa. They’re crunchy, creamy, a tiny bit salty, and more effective than Prozac. If have a touch of PMS, an irritable boss, or a tantrum-prone kid, these babies will pull you back from the edge.
I like the cashews, but you can also get them in almond, hazelnut, pecan, and macadamia. At only ten bucks a bag, they make excellent, unique host gifts.
$10 at Comparte's Chocolatier | Buy
-
Grandma’s Chicken Soup
Have you ever been far away from a loved one who’s sick and wished you could do something to make them feel better? Now you can send them some homemade chicken soup. This one comes with or without matzah balls.
(For half a gallon.)
-
BYO Lunchbag
This grownup neoprene lunchbox holds a drink in one compartment, and food in the other. It insulates, and opens to form a placemat. Also, you can throw it in the washing machine without incident. Pretty cool digs for your PBJ.
-
Fruit Forward Wine Club
Spend less, drink more. Who could disagree with the concept behind Fruit Forward, the wine club that offers small-winery selections and shipping for $10 a bottle? Each month, you get two reds, two whites, or one of each, shipped to your doorstep. The package even includes unpretentious tasting notes. Best of all, you can select the exact number of months you’d like to subscribe. Takes the guesswork out of buying on a budget. (via Budget Living)
$20 at Fruit Forward | Buy
(Per month)
-
Good Earth Teas
Tuck a few Good Earth teabags in your purse and you’ll never have to submit to the indignity of Lipton again. Their original Sweet ‘N’ Spicy Blend, is like a chai without all the calories and prep work. It also makes a feisty, satisfying iced tea. Their Green Tea Blend includes lemon grass, which gives it a mild tang.
-
Girl Scout Cookies
When I moved to a big city, it never occurred to me that I’d be sacrificing my Girl Scout cookies. The wee green ones don’t come to my door or stake out the grocery stores I frequent. My cupboards are cookie-free, and I’m starting to have withdrawal symptoms. The Girl Scouts don’t sell cookies online, but I did find a site where you can download a mail-order form and have Lemon Cremes delivered direct to your door. You have until the end of April to stuff your freezer with Peanut Butter Patties and Caramel deLites before the cookies disappear for another year. Stock up.
-
June Taylor Jams
Heather can’t stop raving about June Taylor Jams. She mentions them whenever we see each other, and she sent me this note: “June Taylor has a booth on Saturday morning down at the farmers market where you can taste them all Heaven in a spoon. I have three jars at home that you’re welcome to sample: Apricot, Pluot and Lavender and Rhubarb. All so good you might want to skip the toast and butter.” She’s right. So good, they make your tastebuds hurt.
$11 at June Taylor Jams | Buy
(Prices vary, $25 minimum.)
-
Xocolatl Hot Chocolate
Delicious. Xocolatl (pronounced Choco-la’tl) emphasizes the “hot” part of hot chocolate. It’s based on a traditional Aztec drink that combines chocolate with a whomp of chilies and a little cinnamon. If you need a gallon of water to get through a tamale, don’t try this at home. But if you can appreciate a dessert with some kick, this cocoa is the spice of life.
(12 oz.)
-
Single Origin Varietal Chocolate Bars
Guittard recently launched a line of origin-specific chocolate bars. They offer three 65 percent bittersweet varietals. The Sur del Lago comes from Venezuela, the Ambanja from Madagascar, and the Chucuri from Columbia. Each has it’s own unique and delicious flavor. Pick up a bottle of wine to match each region, and have some friends over for a tasting.
(per 2 oz. bar)
-
Toasted Head Chardonnay
I know it’s not particularly sophisticated, but I’m a sucker for a good wine label. Toasted Head wines have an adorable fire-breathing bear that’s smashing at a party. And, best of all, they’re relatively cheap and yummy. This chardonnay smells like apricots. It’s sweet, fruity, and bright. The name Toasted Head derives from the process of burning the barrel heads to give the wine a caramelized flavor. I don’t taste any caramel, but I can taste a bit of the oak. A great match for the chicken wings at your backyard BBQ.
-
Droste Cocoa
Throw away the Nestle Quick. This unsweetened cocoa from Holland will make your toes curl. Whisk it into hot milk and sweeten with Bailey’s Irish Cream or Frangelico. If you can get your hands on some homemade marshmallows you might be able to ascend. It’s also amazing in baked goods.
$10 at igourmet.com | Buy
(About 9 oz.)
-
Spice Gift Boxes
Penzey’s spice boxes make fantastic housewarming or wedding gifts. Prices and sizes vary. You can get a small package of four spices or go for broke with the Grand Spice gift crate that includes 19 spices. You can choose your spices based on the recipient’s cooking preferences: baking spices, Indian curries, grill and broil, spice, and several more.
$34 at Penzey's Spices | Buy
(For an eight-pack of spices.)
-
Tomales Bay Deluxe Collection
Cowgirl Creamery makes some dreamy cheeses. I feel nothing but tenderness for their Mt. Tam Triple-Cream Brie. It’s rich, indulgent, and ever so friendly. Cowgirl Creamery offers all kinds of cheese clubs, but my favorite product is their sampler pack of three tasty cheeses, all made in the Tomales Bay region. You’ll get the Mt. Tam, a bum-fortifying triple-cream brie, Point Reyes Original Blue, and Matos St. George cheddar. With this in your picnic basket, don’t bother with sandwiches.
$50 at Cowgirl Creamery | Buy
-
Mr. Beer Premium Edition Kit
Instant beer, just add water. Well, actually you have to wait a week for the beer, but you can make up to twenty bottles every week. You get a brew keg, beer mix, a booster, a recipe book, and eight plastic amber quart bottles with screw caps. Once you use up the malts and hops that come with the kit, you can buy additional blends separately. If you’ve ever wanted to brew your own beer, this kit will let you check out the process without a huge investment.
-
Sofia Mini Blanc de Blanc
Brilliant! I’m completely charmed by these flirty individual servings of bubbly. Ideal for celebration of personal triumphs. The design is entirely too persuasive. They come in a four-pack and have tiny telescoping straws attached to the sides. It’s the much giddier alternative to grabbing a six pack on your way to ladies night. Yes, you’re thinking, but does it taste like can? No. It’s actually quite good. I found it light, with a faint taste of green apples. If you like sparkling wines, you’ll enjoy this. I will say that when I tried sipping without the straw, I found the smell of the can a bit distracting. If you pour it into a glass, there’s no lingering aluminum scent. One can holds about two flutes’ worth. Finally, an inexpensive way to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine without ruining a whole bottle. I’m keeping a few in the fridge for Sunday-morning mimosas, but I expect to see the pink cans showing up for wedding toasts, bachelorettes, showers, beach picnics, and girls’ nights on the town. (Thanks, Amanda!)
$15 at Rosso & Bianco | Buy
-
Republic of Tea’s Ginseng Peppermint
I don’t usually like herbal teas, they tend to taste like a bunch of sticks floating in warm water. Glah. This ginseng peppermint tea, however, is tasty. It contains eleuthero (no idea), peppermint, cinnamon, licorice, and echinacea root. It’s minty, of course, and the licorice flavor isn’t discernable, but it leaves a sweet aftertaste in your mouth. If, like me, you’re bouncing off the walls from your five or six “nice cups of tea” a day, give this a try. It will mellow you right out.
$9 at Republic of Tea | Buy
-
Breakfast Basket Gift Pack
There’s something hilarious about a gift of meat, and Niman Ranch makes some seriously good meat. They’re known for their humane treatment of animals, feeding them all-natural food, and allowing them to mature, so there are no hormones in your food. Their Breakfast Basket Gift Pack includes award-winning applewood smoked bacon; two different breakfast sausages, thier original link and their maple link; two ham steaks; and 4 thinly sliced New York steaks. They have several other meat packages (if you will), I just especially like the idea of sending someone breakfast.
$105 at Niman Ranch | Buy
-
Dean and DeLuca Sugar Collection
Go all out for this year’s cookie-decorating party. These sugar crystals come in such brilliant, rich colors, you’ll want to eat them right out of the tin. (Don’t do that though, because then you’ll have colored-sugar mouth, and no one will want to use the sugar to decorate their cookies because they’ll know you licked the tins, which is totally gross.) A luxurious gift for bakers, or artists who need a good pallette for baking inspiration.
$35 at Dean and DeLuca | Buy
(Eight 7.2 oz tins.)
-
Molten Chocolate Cake Mix
You may not know a bundt pan from a garden rake, but if you can add water and melted butter to a mix, you can make this knee-weakening dessert. It’s a bittersweet chocolate cake with warm melted fudge in the center. If your mouth isn’t watering, you don’t deserve any. In fifteen minutes you get a dessert that will impress the toughest mother-in-law. A sound gift for the baking impaired.
$24 at Williams Sonoma | Buy
(Makes about ten cupcake-sized cakes.)
-
Gingerbread House Kit
Have you ever made a gingerbread house from scratch? Before you can get all Martha on the decorations, you have to put the thing together. You bake the walls, and then they crack into useless (albeit tasty) gingerbread shards. This 11”x19” gingerbread house arrives fully assembled, which means you skip the frustrating breakage, and go straight to the fun-filled gumdrop roof. The kit includes icing mix, coloring, and candy. Now all you have to do is pour yourself an eggnog and explore your artistic side.
$25 at Stonewall Kitchen | Buy
-
Lindemans Framboise Lambic
I don’t like beer. I’ve tried to like beer, really I have, but beer and I just aren’t friends. That means I end up drinking a lot of flat cider in bars where no one orders cider. On occasion, I’m thrilled to find a place that offers lambic, and Lindemans Framboise Lambic is my favorite. It’s a fruity, frothy, thirst-quenching yeast beverage. The Framboise is an ideal balance of sweet and tart, with a pleasant, mellow aftertaste. Like a complex, tipsy soda pop.
$6 at Beverages and More | Buy
(12 ounces)
-
Amarena Wild Cherries
I tried these for the first time at a friend’s wedding. The groom was a bartender, and these were the cherries they used as drink garnishes. They are nothing like maraschino cherries. The texture is dense, and the cherries have a rich, fruity flavor. They’re preserved in thick syrup, and are fantastic as an ice cream or cheesecake topping. Or drop a single cherry into a fizzing glass of prosecco or your evening Manhattan. They’re incredibly hard to come by online (in fact the site I’m sending you to doesn’t even have a photo of the product), but you can pick them up at Italian grocers, and Beverages and More carries them on occasion. Such a treat.
$15 at A Taste of Italy Foods | Buy
(18 oz. jar)
-
Delicately Hot Caramel Dessert Sauce
Holy yum! Tina Tovey wrote in to tell me about this sneak-attack sauce, and I owe her one. At first it tastes exactly as you’d expect–a mild, silky caramel. The magic is in the aftertaste. Once the caramel flavor fades a bit, the sauce is spicy. In fact, it’s got quite a kick. So good, I felt like dancing around with my spoon. Eat some, these Cowgirls know their stuff.
$11 at Cowgirl Chocolates | Buy
(9.5 oz jar)
-
Clove Gum
This nostalgia gum is unique in that it actually leaves your mouth tasting better after you’ve spit it out. (Try that trick with some watermelon-flavored Bubble Yum.) It really does taste like cloves, though a mild, sweet and tingly version of the real thing. If you’re looking for a breath freshener that doesn’t leave you smelling like a candy cane, this is a good bet.
$1 at Candy Direct | Buy
-
Dagoba Dark Chocolate Lavender Bar
Dagoba makes all kinds of organic, flavored chocolates. They have mint, coffee cinnamon, and chai; but lavender is the best of the lot. The bar is 59 percent cocoa, and the lavender essence is offset with dried wild blueberries. The effect is a crisp, tart flavor undercut by the deep bittersweet of the chocolate. Sprinkle a few shavings atop a chocolate torte, or add a square or two to a cup of hot coco. The spicy aftertaste will win you.
$3 at World Wide Chocolate | Buy
($10 for a four-bar pack)
-
Dagoba Dark Chocolate Lavender Bar
Dagoba makes all kinds of organic, flavored chocolates. They have mint, coffee cinnamon, and chai; but lavender is the best of the lot. The bar is 59 percent cocoa, and the lavender essence is offset with dried wild blueberries. The effect is a crisp, tart flavor undercut by the deep bittersweet of the chocolate. Sprinkle a few shavings atop a chocolate torte, or add a square or two to a cup of hot coco. The spicy aftertaste will win you.
$3 at World Wide Chocolate | Buy
($10 for a four-bar pack)
-
Moravian Cookies
A delicate afternoon treat with your tea, these crisp, wafer-thin cookies have been made with the same techniques since about 1766. They’re from a Moravian settlement “living museum” in Winston Salem, North Carolina. You can order the large tins in flavorful ginger or lemon, or order a variety pack that includes black walnut and sugar cookies.
$17 at Old Salem Online | Buy
-
Mrs. Richardson Butterscotch Caramel Topping
It is a complete pain in the rear to melt or make caramel for a sauce. Skip the sugar burning and the pan scouring, and pick up a jar of this dreamy sauce. In stores, you’ll find it with the ice cream toppings, but I use it on popcorn or as a dip. The next time you have friends over, cut up some apples. Then, pour a jar of Mrs. Richardson’s over a block of cream cheese to make an apple dip. Keep an extra jar on hand to spare guests the indignity of licking the bottom of the bowl.
$10 at Made in Rochester | Buy
(for a pack of three jars)
-
Candy Bubbles
These are so much fun! They work just like regular bubbles, except they’re made with concentrated flavoring so they taste good when you catch them in your mouth. (Don’t drink them though. Seriously, that’s not a good plan.) They come in grape or cherry, both of which pretty much taste like “sweet.” The fun part is running around the yard trying to get hold of one. The kids, and the family dog, will go nuts.
$3 at Fun for All Toys | Buy
-
Judy’s Sugar-Free Vanilla Caramels
Yum! Judy’s Candy Company sugar-free caramels taste as good (or better) than most regular caramel. Surprisingly, there’s no discernable fake-sugar aftertaste to alert the unsuspecting, and they’re diabetic friendly. Each caramel comes individually wrapped and is about the size of three Brachs caramels you’d get in a bin at the grocery store. They’re only 60 calories each, are light on carbs for the Atkins crowd, and they taste just as soft and creamy as the real thing.
$1 at Diabetic Friendly | Buy
(per piece)
-
Photo Cookies
These crack me up. They’re customized shortbread cookies with the photo of your choice printed on the icing. The ink is an edible food dye, and cookies come in rectangle, round, or heart shaped. They’re a little pricey, but they’d make fun wedding favors or birth announcements.
$42 at Mrs. Beasley's | Buy
(for a dozen)
-
Izze Sparkling Fruit Juices
Izzehh! (Well, actually it’s pronounced “iz-ee,” but I’m feeling enthusiastic.) It’s possible that I’ve been suckered in by the cool packaging, but these new sparkling fruit juices are tasty. They come in six flavors: blackberry, blueberry, clementine, lemon, pear, and grapefruit, which is my favorite. The carbonation and real-fruit flavors are satisfying when you’re really thirsty. If you don’t feel like having them shipped to your door, you can buy them for a bit less at Starbucks, Target, and Whole Foods Markets. (via Oprah’s O List)
$2 at Soda Pop Stop | Buy
-
Junipero Gin
Junipero is a beautiful gin. It’s a pet project of the brewmaster at Anchor Steam in San Francisco, and is made by hand in a small, copper-pot still. Martini Republic’s description hits it on the head: “Clean but not light like Plymouth. It is smooth but not the least bit tame, the spices shining through and the finish leaving a bit of a tang in the nose. The aroma is not as strong as Sapphire, nor as mediciny as Bombay.” Pour it over some crisp ice, give a brief stir, and ease it into your martini glass. A breath of vermouth is all you’ll need. Now find someplace to put your feet up.
-
Candy Cigarettes
Return to a time when parents gave their children cap guns, Cracker Jacks still had swallowable toys inside, and you could buy candy shaped like a carcinogen. Candy cigarettes sure take you back. They may taste like sugared chalk, but the nostalgia factor is off the charts. Lean against the nearest wall, dig for your imaginary lighter, and lift one to your lips. When the powdered-sugar smoke goes straight up your nose, double over in a fit of uncontrollable coughing. Now that’s satisfaction.
$6 at Candy Warehouse | Buy
-
Steep Teas
Tea is good for you. It warms you up, calms you down, and gets you good and thinky. Forget the mug of bitter black water with a limp Lipton bag stuck to the side. Bah! Treat yourself to a tidy little package of quality, whole-leaf tea that tastes as good as it makes you feel. Steep tea is a small, hip company made up of people who obviously love what they’re doing. They mix their own tasty blends, and the flavors are always changing. Steep also has a handy caffeine-content rating system, and their package design is amazing. Their variety packs have helped me figure out what kinds of teas and ingredients I prefer, and the sweet “tea matchboxes” make you feel like you’re opening a small present every time you brew yourself a cup. Try some. You will like it.
(for a selection of teas)
-
Candy Cigarettes
Return to a time when parents gave their children cap guns, Cracker Jacks still had swallowable toys inside, and you could buy candy shaped like a carcinogen. Candy cigarettes sure take you back. They may taste like sugared chalk, but the nostalgia factor is off the charts. Lean against the nearest wall, dig for your imaginary lighter, and lift one to your lips. When the powdered-sugar smoke goes straight up your nose, double over in a fit of uncontrollable coughing. Now that’s satisfaction.
$6 at Candy Warehouse | Buy
(24-count box)
? These decadent bars are made in Spain from organic ingredients, and come in some pretty amazing gourmet flavors, like Milk Chocolate with Orange and Cardamom, Dark Chocolate with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and White Chocolate with Lemon and Pink Peppercorn. At just $7 apiece, you can pick up all five flavors for the price of one of those heart-shaped boxes - and be assured that your gourmet-loving sweetie will eat every last bite, as opposed to discreetly throwing said heart-shaped box away. "Pin It")
 Now you can have the sushi bar experience on your sofa with this perfectly proportioned bamboo sushi tray, chopsticks, and soy sauce dipping dish. Get a few spicy tuna hand rolls and some sashimi from your favorite sushi joint, queue up a Miyazaki movie on your DVD player, and enjoy a night in. "Pin It"){kind=spacer}
 to instantly oomph up the heat factor. "Pin It")
 http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/elis-cheesecake-8-frango-mint-cheesecake?ID=605860&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results&media=http://mightygoods.com//system/pictures/0002/0440/elisfrangomintcheesecake_thumb.jpg&description=Ever sampled a chocolatey, peppermint-y Frango Mint? You got addicted, didn’t you? Well, now those melty delights have been transformed into cheesecake perfect for bringing to holiday dinner parties as a dessert-slash-hostess gift. Don’t be surprised, though, if you have to fight the other guests for the last crumbs on the plate. "Pin It")
, this over-21-only alcoholic advent tracker is a sure bet. Behind each of the 24 doors lies a bottled dram of a different whisky - one of them is even a 50 year-old Scotch whisky! We�d understand, though, if you wanted to buy this for yourself. "Pin It"){kind=tracking}
 and included spork, plus watertight seals to keep everything locked away, make for one perfectly packed lunch box. "Pin It")
 have gone to bed on Halloween night, mix up a batch of pumpkin-flavored cocktails and serve them to fellow tired parents. We cant guarantee tricks, but anything served from this set of four unique, gothic martini glasses is sure to be a spooky good treat. "Pin It")
<p>
<b>Gardening, anyone?</b> After Halloween, chop your Jack-o-Lantern into big pieces and add it to your compost pile. The nutrient-rich flesh makes great fertilizer and could really make a difference in your veggie, fruit, and flower gardens next year.
<p>
<b>Smoothie time, baby!</b> If youre one of the many who swear by daily fruit-and-veggie smoothies to get your nutrition in, have we got a treat for you! Pumpkin puree freezes beautifully in ice cube trays, after which you can quickly toss them in freezer bags to have ready for a <a href='http://www.healthfulpursuit.com/2011/09/pumpkin-spice-smoothie/'>healthy vegan treat</a>, a new twist on a <a href='http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/banana-pumpkin-smoothie-10000001041857/'>banana-yogurt smoothie</a>, or go all out and treat yourself to <a href='http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/10/pumpkin-smoothie/'>the Pioneer Womans decadent pumpkin pie in a glass</a>.
<p>
Oh, and one more thing: Weve all had pumpkin bars, pumpkin-and-chocolate brownies, pumpkin soup, and even pumpkin pizza (trust me, its divine - roasted pumpkin wedges, sage leaves and fontina cheese on crust, no tomato sauce), but this <a href='http://www.nytimes.com/recipes/495/Armenian-Pumpkin-Stew.html'>Armenian pumpkin stew</a> recipe takes the cake (ha) for the most unique, tasty pumpkin-based recipe Ive ever found. Its easy to make vegetarian by omitting the lamb meat and swapping the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and a great way to clear out your spice cupboard to boot.
<p><br>
This content series is in partnership with smartwater. Fall is delicious: <a href='http://www.facebook.com/smartwater'>Click here</a> to learn more.
<p>
<a href='http://www.facebook.com/smartwater' target='_blank' onMouseOver='self.status='http://www.facebook.com/smartwater'; return true;' onMouseOut='self.status='';return true;'><img src='http://static.fmpub.net/banners/20120905/50477b34b5c94smartwater_125x125.jpg' width='125' height='125' alt='' title='' border='0'></a> "Pin It")
 it is. "Pin It")
 between cinnamon-spiced graham crackers. And then they dip that entire pile of deliciousness in dark chocolate. Congratulations, you've just earned a seat at the adults table. "Pin It")
 and 6 whiskey stones that will keep the good stuff nice and cold. Cheers to that! "Pin It")
 "Pin It")
 or to any dish that needs a little heat and oomph. "Pin It")
 from Brittany is where it's at- perfect for seasoning your foodie's leafy greens and grilled veggies. Ooh la la. "Pin It")
 adult-ifies popcorn into a sophisticated, savory snack. Definitely worth smuggling into the movie theater. "Pin It")
 way to serve this year's gravy. "Pin It")
 bridesmaid gift for your favorite ladies. "Pin It")
 coffee cozy. These come as a set of 3, so gift one or two to pals or keep all three for yourself in strategic places: Car, purse, pocket, desk drawer. "Pin It")
 cupcake stacker. "Pin It")
 bamboo wine rack. "Pin It")
_thumb.gif&description=Graduation? This calls for a drink. "Pin It")
 with cups of cocoa. Stock up for camping, or freeze them so you have them on hand when the air turns crisp. "Pin It")
 "Pin It")
 "Pin It")
. You need drink umbrellas. And rum. "Pin It")
.
So much easier to ship than cupcakes. "Pin It")
A hole punch that creates a perfectly straw-sized hole in bottle caps. Sweet party trick. "Pin It")
_thumb.jpg&description=An airplane bottle of Kahlua makes Christmas morning extra merry. "Pin It")
 is worth trying too. "Pin It")
 "Pin It")
 around a small berry that makes everything taste sweet for about thirty minutes afterward.
Via [kottke](http://www.kottke.org/remainder/08/05/15748.html) "Pin It")
 editor, Melissa Summers. Her husband warned her not to come home without a few bottles, because he uses the brandy to make unstoppable pear sidecars. Now he can get his fix online.
(Bottle sans pear is $40.) "Pin It")
, it's tough to go wrong with Macallan. "Pin It")
. "Pin It")
.
"Pin It")
"Pin It")
[1]: http://flickr.com/photos/mypapercrane/376745795/in/photostream/
[2]: http://www.notmartha.org "Pin It")
[1]: http://www.notmartha.org/ "Pin It")
[1]: http://www.dailyolive.com/ "Pin It")
 options. Everyone on the playground has been asking me about ours.' The site calls them American-style bento boxes and says they're dishwasher safe. Sounds good to me. "Pin It")
 sent notes urging us to post about Mighty Leaf Teas. I feel silly to have forgotten about Mighty Leaf for so long, because they're an old favorite. Mighty Leaf packs tasty, whole-leaf tea into convenient, silky tea bags. (Most other tea bags are filled with crushed, bitter leaf flakes that are practically undrinkable.) This sampler gives your favorite tea snob 108 moments of peace, and many of the teas are even better on second brewing. Includes: Breakfast Americana, Earl Gold, Vanilla Bean, Orange Jasmine, Marrakesh Mint, Green Tea Tropical, African Nectar, Chamomile Citrus, and Mint Melange. (If you want the tea, but don't need the pretty box and menu, you can purchase a [refill box][1] for only $54.)
[1]: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?link_code=ur2&tag=mighgood-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&path=tg%2Fdetail%2F-%2FB0001FZ7X4%2Fqid%3D1137708081%2Fsr%3D8-1%2Fref%3Dsr_8_xs_ap_i1_xgl251%3Fv%3Dglance%26s%3Dgourmet-food%26n%3D507846 "Pin It")
 at a go. The Caja China comes with a charcoal pan and grid, large dripping pan, two stainless steel grills, four hooks, and a marinating syringe. "Pin It")
[1]: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?link_code=ur2&camp=1789&tag=mighgood-20&creative=9325&path=tg/detail/-/B00006BILS/qid=1115663779/sr=8-1/ref=pd_csp_1?v=glance%26s=magazines%26n=507846 "Pin It")
 emphasizes the 'hot' part of hot chocolate. It's based on a traditional Aztec drink that combines chocolate with a whomp of chilies and a little cinnamon. If you need a gallon of water to get through a tamale, don't try this at home. But if you can appreciate a dessert with some kick, this cocoa is the spice of life. "Pin It")
 "Pin It")
, peppermint, cinnamon, licorice, and echinacea root. It's minty, of course, and the licorice flavor isn't discernable, but it leaves a sweet aftertaste in your mouth. If, like me, you're bouncing off the walls from your five or six 'nice cups of tea' a day, give this a try. It will mellow you right out. "Pin It")
, I just especially like the idea of sending someone breakfast. "Pin It")
 A luxurious gift for bakers, or artists who need a good pallette for baking inspiration. "Pin It")
 gingerbread shards. This 11'x19' gingerbread house arrives fully assembled, which means you skip the frustrating breakage, and go straight to the fun-filled gumdrop roof. The kit includes icing mix, coloring, and candy. Now all you have to do is pour yourself an eggnog and explore your artistic side. "Pin It")
, but you can pick them up at Italian grocers, and Beverages and More carries them on occasion. Such a treat. "Pin It")
 It really does taste like cloves, though a mild, sweet and tingly version of the real thing. If you're looking for a breath freshener that doesn't leave you smelling like a candy cane, this is a good bet. "Pin It")
 They come in grape or cherry, both of which pretty much taste like 'sweet.' The fun part is running around the yard trying to get hold of one. The kids, and the family dog, will go nuts. "Pin It")
 than most regular caramel. Surprisingly, there's no discernable fake-sugar aftertaste to alert the unsuspecting, and they're diabetic friendly. Each caramel comes individually wrapped and is about the size of three Brachs caramels you'd get in a bin at the grocery store. They're only 60 calories each, are light on carbs for the Atkins crowd, and they taste just as soft and creamy as the real thing. "Pin It")
 It's possible that I've been suckered in by the cool packaging, but these new sparkling fruit juices are tasty. They come in six flavors: blackberry, blueberry, clementine, lemon, pear, and grapefruit, which is my favorite. The carbonation and real-fruit flavors are satisfying when you're really thirsty. If you don't feel like having them shipped to your door, you can buy them for a bit less at Starbucks, Target, and Whole Foods Markets. (via Oprah's [O List][1])
[1]: http://www.oprah.com/omagazine/olist/omag_olist_main.jhtml "Pin It")
