We all have so much stuff, but there’s nothing better than giving a thoughtful, intentional gift you know the recipient will use and love!! I hope this list of FOOD LA LA’s favorites helps inspire you to find gifts that are useful and or joyful (many of my favorite small businesses are included!) Happy shopping!
STOCKING STUFFERS
SIXTH COURSE BUCK BARS
Hand painted dark chocolate candy bars from local San Francisco confection queen, Sixth Course. Definitely too cute to melt into hot chocolate!!
Champagne Stopper
Made in Italy and keeps Champagne bubbly for 3 days! (Can also be used on wine bottles.)
FOOD LA LA Sprinkles
The cutest touch for anything homemade or store-bought! Our favorites are: Fineapple, Flamingling, and our Cacti.
Wool Dryer Balls
These reduce drying time (reducing energy!) and double as a softener! Chris’s mom gave these to us last year and we love them!
A new tea I discovered this year! The tea is a roasted herbal so there’s no caffeine but it almost has a coffee vibe to it (perfect for somebody trying to ditch caffeine in 2021!) The caramel and coconut ones are my favorite, but this sampler pack would be a great place to start!
FOR THE FOODIE
Good olive oil is SO important. We love this brand. But also, FWIW, Oprah loves them too (they debuted on her Oprah’s Favorite Things 2020 list!) Small batch, hand pressed olive oil straight from Italy! Their subscription memberships are sold out, but try to snag an individual bottle if you can!
These boards are made with eco-friendly materials and are dishwasher safe! A really good alternative to plastic. I have both black and the natural color - a set of two mini ones would be a wonderful gift! They also have this riveted collection which is super fun!
Wusthoff Knife Set
Sharp knives are a must for anyone who spends time in the kitchen! A knife block is great, but really all you need is a chef’s and paring knife. I’m a sucker for the white handles!
DIY Macaron Kit
Obviously we’re biased, but this is a pretty fabulous gift! The kit comes with just about everything you need (add butter & eggs) to make 2 dozen + fancy macarons! Plus, recipients will receive 1-year access to our virtual macaron masterclass! (Choose gift wrap option for the fun copper bag!)
Stasher Bags
Ditch single-use plastic bags for these reusable silicone bags. Dishwasher, freezer, and microwave safe, plus they’re eco friendly :)
LIFESTYLE
Yeti Rambler
Who needs another water bottle or portable mug, right?! This is the one to keep and clean out the rest! It’s almost annoying how hot it keeps my tea :) I love the white, ice pink, and sagebrush green (monogram it for an extra special touch).
I-Recover Mind & Body Gel
My sister gave this to Chris last year and we’ve been obsessed! It’s like a clean version of Icy Hot. Rub it on your neck, back, and feet for a refreshing, tingly dose of relief! I used to love bringing this with me on the plane . . . hopefully again soon!
FOOD LA LA COOKING CLUB MEMBERSHIP
We all have so much stuff - sometimes the best gifts are experiences! This is perfect for a beginner or somebody looking to learn a few new tricks in the kitchen! They’ll receive access to two live cooking classes per month plus a library of replays. Classes feature inspired menus (with basic ingredients and tools) and artisan guests like olive oil makers, cheese mongers, master distillers, restaurant chefs, chocolatiers . . . oh my! When you gift a 3-, 6-, or 12- month membership, you’ll receive a free gift for yourself!
I use this to read while Chris sleeps—it holds the book open and illuminates the pages!
FOR FUN:
@mindybriarphotography
Hand Painted Accessories
A super thoughtful gift! Send a pair of your favorite tennis shoes (or even a jean/leather jacket!) and California based artist Alexa Dodson will turn it into a work of art sure to garner several “OMG - where did you get that?!”-s. (Submit a “contact” form on her website for these products.)
These are light (but feel like really good quality) and have long backs so they won’t slip out! Most styles come with stones, but submit a contact form to order the plain leaf style I’m wearing (it’s like the secret menu at In N’ Out :))
ILIA Mascara
Alas! A clean mascara that actually works! My sister gave me this last year as I slowly (but surely!) clean up my beauty products. LOVE LOVE LOVE!
I can’t wear these hoops without getting stopped! Ethically handmade by local San Franciscan designer LaToya McInnis, you’re sure to find something special (use code HOLIDAYDASH20 for 20% off site wide + free gift wrap and shipping - yay!)