I do most of our buying and I’m very particular — we don’t carry anything I don’t love. So it was difficult for me to narrow it down to only a selection of gifts. Here is a mix of my current favorites, old and new, that I think would make great gifts for just about anyone.
Atlas Copper & Brass Mills — These were one of our foundational products for Tenzo, one of the things that inspired us to create a kitchenware store. After owning a set of the copper for ten years, they still bring me so much joy. Truly heirlooms.
Suribachi — I love a mortar & pestle, and I own a lot of them. This Japanese one is my favorite because the grooves make it that much easier to grind up spices or make garlic paste, and the silicone bottom is genius.
Mineral B Oval Roasting Pan — This is my go-to pan, especially in the colder months when I’m roasting vegetables just about every night. It makes a perfect roast chicken and can even transition right to the stovetop for making gravy with the drippings.
Seasonal Produce Calendar — In our digital world, it’s such a pleasure to glance up at a beautiful wall calendar rather than down at my phone. Maria’s illustrations are just gorgeous, and the heavy, textured paper they’re printed on make each calendar feel like it was hand-painted just for you.
Tortilla Press Kit — This press has been a game changer for us, especially this year when it’s been harder to just pop to the store for a pack of tortillas. With a bag of masa in the cabinet, we’re ready for tacos any time.
Farm Lunch — I’m so inspired by this simple little book. Marjory has managed to distill an entire cooking ethos into a few dozen pages, effectively teaching her reader how to assemble an endless variety of meals rather than make discrete recipes. Such a breath of fresh air compared to the often-fussy and overladen mainstream cookbooks.
Sandstone Coasters — I discovered these in a roadside rock shop on the way to Santa Fe last year and knew instantly I needed to stock them for Tenzo. I collect coasters, I have so many (sets that belonged to my parents and grandparents even), and these just might be my favorite. I love the way the porous stone soaks up the condensation from drinks, and they’re heavy enough that they don’t get stuck to the bottom of the glass, like some wooden ones do.
Fino Stacking Glass — This is another new item for us this year, and another thing I use everyday. I drink everything out of these glasses, from water to tea to wine, and I love how thin and elegant the glass is.
Copper Kettle — It’s such a pleasure using a beautiful object for an everyday routine. Using this kettle brings so much joy to my mornings. Yes, it’s expensive, but it will last essentially forever. Special objects have a way of marking time — you’ll always remember when you received a gift like this.