By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
We’ve made a list and checked it twice and we think these Christmas gift ideas for foodies will impress even the fussiest eaters!
1. A cookbook: from page to plate
Whether you’re spoiling the seasoned Chef who’s mastered the mille-feuille or the friend who’s still making their way around mac and cheese, a cookbook is the perfect personalised present. Excellent options include Crumbs by Ben Mims - which will satisfy sweet tooths with its selection of cookie recipes from around the world. Looking for something with a more tailored touch? There’s a Story Behind Every Meal from Tweed Real Food blends recipes with the heartfelt narrative of untold farm stories and beautiful rural imagery. For the carnivore with a sense of humour, A Huge Missed Steak by Australian Hospitality powerhouse Mark Filippelli delivers both flavour and laughs.
2. A gift voucher: pick your own present
For a gift that’s guaranteed to fit - and avoid the re-gifting pile (sorry scented candles!) - a voucher from a favourite restaurant is as much meaningful as it is convenient. Try an option that can be utilised at multiple venues - such as one from ESCA Restaurant Group, which includes Nour, Aalia and Joji - opening the door for your favourite foodie to enjoy unforgettable dining experiences and exceptional meals crafted by top Chefs.
3. An epicurean experience: memories in the making
Experiential gifts are an excellent option for the foodie who has it all. Try a wine-tasting tour - like the one at Chateau Tanunda in South Australia. Or, mix things up with a cocktail-making class at Lil’ Darlin, where they’ll master the art of shaking and stirring. For a sweet escape, send them on a nougat-making adventure at Mondo Nougat in WA’s Swan Valley.
4. An ice cream maker: churning up fun
When it comes to cool gifts, the Ninja Creami Ice Cream Maker is the cherry on top (of a very good sundae). Whether they’re whipping up gelato gold or sorbet sensations, this gadget lets them churn out custom cones. Plus, you might just get a scoop of the action as an official taste tester. It’s a gift that’s sure to melt hearts and serve smiles all year long!
5. A baking bundle: for oven enthusiasts
For the buddy who loves whipping up baked goodies, the Our Place Bakeware Set is a showstopper. Its elegant design and versatility will inspire everything from cakes to casseroles. Pair it with a few specialty ingredients for a truly thoughtful gift.
6. A coffee maker: whole latte love
We’re going to spill the beans…a sleek coffee machine is a truly brew-tiful gift. Spoil someone special and splurge on the JURA S8 Chrome Coffee Machine - a high-end gadget with customisable settings for every coffee connoisseur. Or, opt for a more affordable alternative in the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg - and bring barista-level quality into their kitchen. For a Secret Santa present that’s sure to perk them up, stock up on a few packets of L’OR Coffee Popping Pearls - a unique way to add a little buzz to their brews.
7. An essential appliance: kitchen cred
Streamline their kitchen routine with an investment-worthy appliance. The Durapres Prep Master Pro Food Processor (created in collaboration with Curtis Stone) is a powerhouse that will save time and make cooking more enjoyable for busy food lovers. Similarly, the Philips 5000 Series Air Fryer is an excellent option for those with ‘Get Healthy’ New Year’s resolutions in their line of vision. Perfect for whipping up everything from golden fries to crunchy tofu, without oil, it’s a wholesome indulgence they’ll love long after their best-laid January 1 plans have fallen to the wayside!
8. A knife set: cutting-edge cool
A slick set of knives is a cut above the rest for both aspiring and experienced cooks. The Furi Bread and Board Set pairs functionality with flair, and is a slice of luxury that proves that great meals start with great tools.
9. A beautiful bowl: serve in style
Bowl them over with the stunning W.J. Sanders Rockpool Sterling Silver Bowl. This exquisite table accessory piece doubles as homeware and a conversation starter, perfect for displaying fruit, serving salads or holding holiday treats.
10. A spice mill: spice things up
A spice mill may seem small, but it’s a mighty addition to any kitchen. The elegant Bolia Spice Mill allows foodies to freshly grind their favourite seasonings, adding a burst of flavour to every dish.
11. A delicious hamper: ho, ho hungry
There’s no shortage of brands offering Christmas hampers. Balmoral Hamper Club has created some truly beautiful ones featuring a range of gourmet goods that you’ll genuinely want to eat (no quirky quince paste here!). For those who prefer the DIY route, our favourite suggestions for building your own basket include Giorgio’s Artisan Cheeses - an exclusive range of six dairy delights, Hagen’s x Darling Distillery Christmas Pudding Ham Glaze, or a pot of luxe liver pate - crafted from the signature Fook Wong Cockerel - by Aurum Poultry Co.
Don’t forget to add a delicious dessert that doubles as decoration - like Stokehouse’s Tropical Christmas Pudding, a tasty treat that is offering three lucky customers a chance to find a hidden golden mandarin within their pudding - and win a $200 Stokehouse dining voucher to enjoy in the New Year!
12. Stocking stuffers: our selection
Finally, for a stocking stuffer with personality, the Tarramarra Fluffy Avocado Keyring by Ugg Express is irresistibly adorable - and a cute and quirky way for your fave foodie friend to guac their personal style. So too are Frank Green’s latest lunch containers, which come in delicious shades such as mint green and can be monogrammed for a tailored touch. Or, if you like to take the stocking stuffer suggestion literally, our pick is a pair of socks - like the limited edition collab by Hommey x Yo-Chi - a range of frozen yogurt-themed foot covers for the froyo lover in your life!