Forget naughty or nice—as far as we’re concerned, everyone deserves a ceramic French butter keeper this year. Find more gifts that stand the test of time—and those that don’t (chocolate covered malt balls, anyone?)—for every budget and carry-on size, in our guide to the gifts we’ve been coveting all through 2015.
The BA Gift Guide: Under $50 | $50-100 | $100+
From the brand that chefs like Naomi Pomeroy and Paul Kahan swear by, in a heavy Italian chambray that will get even softer with use.
The Little Black Dress of salt cellars.
"This kit smells amazing, and the packaging is beautiful. Also, a hand soap/moisturizer combo is great for the kitchen." —Emily Eisen, associate photo editor
"I am obsessed with these $$$ tea canisters from Japan. They patina amazingly. I buy their $16 tea scoops instead." —Christine Muhlke, executive editor
Just imagining this shiny 13"-diameter tray loaded up with cocktails makes us thirsty.
“Jon Broida at Japanese Knife Imports is known for collaborating with small Japanese manufacturers to offer exceptional knives at good value. In fact, he talked me out of a higher-priced blade and sold me on this model, an all-purpose chef’s knife that’s thin, light, and capable of doing everything your current knife can do, just a lot better.” —Chris Morocco, senior food editor
“Matt Alexander, who made all the chairs, tables, and bar stools for Rolf and Daughters, uses wood from his family farm outside Nashville for these boards. I have a hickory one in my kitchen, and it pops. I like to imagine what it’s going to look like in 10 years, because it’ll wear really well.” —Phil Krajeck, chef, Rolf and Daughters, Nashville
“Ingenious design makes this teapot more than just good-looking. Hinged handles hold the lid in place for spill-proof pouring. I love mine so much that I gave one to everyone in my family.” —Liesel Davis, recipe editor
For the baker who has (almost) everything, this striking cake plate from Oakland, CA, designer Melanie Abrantes makes even crumbs look good. It’s a nice way to display cheese, too.
Sometimes bigger is better. This giant (21"-diameter!) platter can be a statement piece on the kitchen counter, a charming base for a side dish, or a way to show off all those Christmas cookies.
“If a wooden spoon could be an investment piece, this would be it. It’s gorgeously crafted and beautiful to look at. That it can dish out quinoa salads and rice pilafs is a nice bonus.” —Adam Rapoport, editor in chief
“Last year, I gave my father a custom-made knife from Bloodroot Blades. Best investment I’ve ever made: Not only did he get a consultation to choose the style, materials, and size of the blade and handle, the knife makers offer free sharpening for life.” —Rochelle Bilow, senior associate web editor
A serving tray that earns its keep: A sliding wood insert is great for meat and cheese when you’re entertaining (and easy to pop out when you’re eating in bed).
“My wife and I received a Dualit toaster as a wedding present 21 years ago, and it’s still turning out excellent toast today. It may be a big spend, but you can’t beat the durability.” —Michael Cimarusti, chef, Providence, L.A.
“This should be a staple in the kitchen of anyone who loves to cook. I use this for everything, from roasting chicken to baking bread to one-pot meals.” —Melissa Perello, chef, Octavia, San Francisco
Buying an amazing knife won’t get you very far if you don’t have the tools to maintain it. This set has everything you need to sharpen knives: three stones, a stone cleaner, and a bamboo holder that can be secured over most kitchen sinks for mess-free sharpening.
These oak-lidded earthenware vessels are definitely the first storage containers we’ve ever called sexy. Use the 7"-tall one for storing grains; try the 4"-tall one for leftovers.
“A home cook can only be as ambitious as his or her largest serving dish, which is why you need a gigantic wooden bowl. It doesn’t just allow you to make, say, salad for 20; it encourages you—in all its humble beauty and generosity of scale—to do it more often.” —Amiel Stanek, assistant editor
"This cork dining table by Ilse Crawford for IKEA has a hidden sling underneath where you can stash your papers before dinner." —Christine Muhlke, executive editor
This is how you turn a humble spice bowl into the handsomest piece on the table.
"All I want for Christmas is this stove that looks like a Lacanche—for a quarter of the price!" —Christine Muhlke, executive editor
Gift subscription, from $12
The first issue of the gift subscription will come in a gift box along with a Bon Appétit tote and holiday card.
Bon Appétit's Best Recipes 2015 cookbook, $27.99
150+ recipes, full color photographs of every dish, hardcover, cookbook comes in gift wrap and a gift box. Expedited shipping available.
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