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The 13 Best Cookbooks of 2025

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
A collage of cookbook covers from 2025 in three rows.

Whether you’re looking for a new recipe to make for dinner on Friday or simply love a stack of cookbooks for bedtime reading, you’re in luck. 2025 has been a great year for the cookbook lover. A special shout-out to Tra Publishing – a relative newcomer (they launched in 2016) – who are creating some gorgeous cookbooks that also celebrate the interesting and unusual in food.

Julia Leonard Takes Us Through the 13 Best Cookbooks of 2025 

A cookbook cover of a woman in front of an American flag.

Padma’s All American: A Cookbook by Padma Lakshimi 

Lakshimi’s latest book is a welcome reminder that American food is by definition the food of immigrants who have come here and call this country home. She draws on her years of travel for Top Chef and Taste the Nation as well as the work she’s done as an Artist Ambassador for immigrants’ and women’s rights for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) to create a culinary tapestry of all that is best in what we eat and cook in this country. Published by Knopf.

A white book cover with pink and yellow and blue and green letters.

Good Things: Recipes and Rituals to Share with People You Love by Samin Nosrat 

Six years ago, on the heels of the massive success of Salt, Fat, Acid Heat, Samin Nosrat’s world turned upside down and the sense of joy that cooking brought her disappeared. Eventually she emerged with a renewed appreciation for the importance of feeding those we love. “It has reminded me that something as simple as cooking for my loved ones can carry as much meaning, as much worth, as any achievement or career milestone,” she says. This is sharing food whether it’s her Fluffy Pork Meatballs (served on olive oil-fried bread rubbed with garlic, please) or Chicken Braised with Apricots and Harissa. Nourishing, joyous, as well as loving dishes from a deeply thoughtful cook and writer. Published by Random House. 

A yellow illustration with a branch featuring a lemon, pomegranate, and black lime.

Lugma: Abundant Dishes and Stories from My Middle East by Noor Murad 

Noor Murad is a Bahraini-British chef and author who worked as a sous chef at one of the Ottolenghi restaurants in London as well as the Ottolenghi Test Kitchen. I’d polish off her Sauteed Greens with Yoghurt, Fried Onions and Turmeric Oil – serves four but who’s counting – or Pan-Fried Tomatoes with Za’atar, Pine Nuts and Halloumi with abandon. These are beautifully conceived and then executed recipes in a cookbook that deserves space on your shelf. Published by Quadrille.

A table spread with plate of food all over it.
A man cuts into a piece of steak on his plate.
A cookbook cover with gold designs on it.

Service by Anna Hedworth, Food You Want to Eat by Thomas Straker, The King Cookbook by Clare de Boer, Jess Shadbolt, and Annie Shi 

Three outstanding chef-driven cookbooks from three chefs who are at the top of their game. As Anna Hedworth says in Service, “A good restaurant welcomes you into its fold; it feels like family, like friendship, like home, sometimes like a raucous party that everyone wants an invitation to.” Service, Food You Want to Eat, and The King Cookbook, all bring that experience to the page – the feeling that we too can be the consummate host, polishing plates, as well as planning meals, ready to welcome friends and soon-to-be-friends to our table. Published by Quadrille, Bloomsbury, and Flatiron Books.

An ItaloPunk cookbook with a woman with salami on her eyes.

Italopunk: 145 Recipes to Shock Your Nonna by Vanja Van der Leeden 

Italian cuisine is steeped in rules and rituals from the type of pasta you serve with Bolognese (never spaghetti, always tagliatelle) to what you’ll find in a ribollita. But Van der Leeden – who lived for years in Italy – wants to shake that up. A traditional basil pesto gets spicy with jalapeno and lime; mozza in carrozza (fried mozzarella) is sandwiched with a South American chimichurri; and a traditional Panzanella salad goes heretical with the addition of mango, lime, and a drizzle of fish sauce. Yes, Italian nonnas (grandmothers) will be shocked but I won’t tell them if you don’t. Published by Tra Publishing.

A green cookbook with plants on the cover.
Various vegetarian dishes like carrots and salad and eggplant sit on a red table.

Boustany: A Celebration of Vegetables from My Palestine by Sami Tamimi and Sabzi: Vibrant Vegetarian Recipes by Yasmin Khan 

My favorite vegetarian cookbooks this year by two of my all-time favorite food writers. I would gladly sit down to a bowl of Khan’s Spinach and Kale Soup (the perfect way to use up lingering greens from your fridge) topped with Crispy Chickpeas but that’s true of every dish in her latest cookbook. She is a consummate writer and deft cook. Tamimi – of Ottolenghi restaurant fame – creates food that sings, like his Pan-baked Tahini, Halva & Coffee Brownie or a colorful and zippy Chilled Tabbouleh Soup. Published by Ten Speed. Published by WW Norton. 

A blue cookbook with lime, jalapeño, and cilantro illustrations.

Monsoon: Delicious Indian Recipes for Every Day and Season by Asma Khan 

Food writer, chef, and restaurateur Asma Khan’s latest is an ode to the food of her native India as well as the seasons and flavors that influence it. She dedicates each of the six chapters to a season. They run through Summer, Monsoon, Fall, Dry Season, Winter, and Spring. They also showcase the six Ayurvedic flavors sour, tangy/astringent, spicy/pungent, sweet, salty, and bitter. The best meals, Khan feels, combine as many of these flavors as possible. She makes it easy for readers with menus that feature dishes like Gobi Manchurian – a stir-fried spicy cauliflower or Tawa Toastie – a grilled cheese on steroids filled with cheese, chopped onion, cilantro chutney, green chiles and a cilantro chutney on the side. Published by DK (Red).

A drawing of a sunflower with a pair of cherries on either side.

Sour Cherries & Sun Flowers: Recipes from Eastern Europe and Beyond by Anastasia Zolotarev 

A trip to Kyiv reminded Sydney-based food writer of her Ukrainian heritage and then started a journey to rediscover her culinary roots. The result are her twists on classic dishes like borscht as well as recipes that draw on Eastern European ingredients to surprising and delicious results like her Kefir Ice Cream with Blackcurrant Preserve. Published by Quadrille.

A table with a white and blue table cloth and food on top.

Mostly French: Recipes from a Kitchen in Provence by Makenna Held 

In 2016, Makenna Held bought Julia Child’s summer home in Provence sight-unseen. Little wonder then that this inspired collection of recipes feels like hanging out with your best friend over a glass (or two) of rose on a sun-drench Provencal patio. And let’s be honest – who wouldn’t with dishes like Cherry Clafoutis with Cobanero Chile or Roasted Bone Marrow with Crisp Mushrooms and Herbed Vinaigrette. A great gift for the Francophile in your life who longs to luxuriate in the South of France, especially in the dead of winter. Published by Simon Element.

A green mountain cookbook cover with green mountains and valleys.

Green Mountain: Walking the Caucasus with Recipes by Caroline Eden 

Caroline Eden is that rare author who writes equally well on both food and travel (Her memoir Cold Kitchen: A Year of Culinary Journeys is in our Best of Foodie Memoir list). In Green Mountain, she takes us along on a journey through the Caucasus with stops throughout Armenia and Georgia. Read it for the travel or read it for the recipes but really read it for both – it’s captivating journey with the most able guide to lead you along the way. Published by Quadrille.

Story by Julia Platt Leonard

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Gift These Wine Bottles This Holiday Season

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
Five bottles of wine stacked on a table for gifting.

Wine is a great gift because it is inherently meant to be shared. This means that your gift goes beyond the reciever you have in mind and into their circles of family and friends. Your gift can be the centerpiece of a family meal, drinks with friends and commemorating a special occasion. These special events can be the beginning of a memorable moment or the creating of a core memory… all thanks to you!

Best Wine Bottles for Gifting This Holiday Season

Freixenet

A flirty and jovial Spanish sparkling wine that is an on-budget crowd-pleaser! Makes a great gift wine. Dry and effervescent, it will kick off a wide range of holiday occasions without breaking the bank.

Nebbiolo

Gorgeous Nebbiolo hails from the small but high quality wine region of Langhe, nestled in Italy’s Piedmont region. This is a great bottle to gift during the holidays. It’s layered yet delicate, and will pair well with most holiday meals.

Sancerre

The gem of the Loire Valley will make you the gem of the party. This high acid and crisp white wine is perfect for many main dishes, including turkey and ham.

CDP

The name is born from Pope John XXII who encouraged viticulture in the area and created a sort of papal summer retreat. This was wine made by priests from the best french vines for the Pope. This is an incredible regal wine that if decanted properly (one hour in advance) will be smooth and silky to the tongue. Please advise your reciever that this special bottle that should be for a special occasion with loved ones.

Ruinart Champagne

What better way to kick off the holiday season than by uncorking a bottle of champagne. Ruinart is a wonderful sparkling rosé because it has a perfect of red fruit and brioche notes. This elegant bottle will impress your host and hostess with its ability to pair well with many dishes — but particularly with hors-doeuvres.

Story by Camila Alarcón Cordón
Photography by Dave Bryce

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We Taste Tested 5 Mashed Potato Recipes from Celebrity Chefs to Find the Best

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
A bowl full of creamy mashed potatoes with a sprig of thyme in it.

Whenever it comes to the holiday dinner table, or frankly any gathering, there’s one dish that is a must-have no matter what entree you’re supporting or how big of a crowd you’re serving. Mashed potatoes. You can bet we’ll always have room on our plate for these creamy, delicious mounds of tender potatoes, milk, and butter. Even during weeknight dinners, mashed potatoes reign as an easy and versatile side dish.

While we can all agree on the importance of mashed potatoes, the world cannot seem to come to a consensus on how to make the best mashed potatoes. Do you heat your milk before adding it? Melt your butter first? Only use a certain kind of potato?

If you responded passionately to one or more of those questions, you’re not alone. Most of us have a go-to recipe that we stick with, out of habit or nostalgia. However, what if we push boundaries and pit mashed potato against mashed potato? What recipe would come out on top? 

A group of people with plates of potatoes and papers at a table.

We gathered a group of 12 TABLE Magazine friends to taste test four famous chef’s mashed potato recipes and one from our own Editor-in-Chief, Keith Recker. After sampling each recipe, our guests marked down their rating from one to three, one being the worst and three being the best. We also asked them to mark down if they thought the recipe was an everyday recipe or a holiday one as well as any additional comments. Our consensus? Well you’ll just have to read ahead to find out.

Taste Testing Five Celebrity Chef’s Mashed Potato Recipes

Two women sit at a table with plates of mashed potatoes.

Julia Child’s Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Who doesn’t love a little garlic with their potatoes? Julia Child’s Garlic Mashed Potatoes start off with cooking 30 cloves of garlic in butter. You add flour and eventually hot milk to turn that into a smooth and flavorful béchamel sauce. Then, you rice the potatoes and whip in her flavorful sauce along with a handful of finely chopped parsley. Its velvety texture, thanks to the béchamel sauce, invites you in but it’s that hefty garlic flavor that leaves you coming back for more. Our group decided this was one of their favorites of the recipes due to its ability to please just about everyone. It’s a safe bet but still takes you outside your comfort zone. 

Two men eat mashed potatoes at a table.

Martha Stewart’s Classic American Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a recipe that leans more towards the traditional and the familiar, Martha Stewart is the chef for you. Her Classic American Mashed Potatoes are as simple as it gets with five ingredients including Yukon Gold potatoes, nutmeg, salt and pepper, butter, and heavy cream or whole milk. While there’s not a lot of flavor going on here, these are sure to be among the creamiest potatoes you’ll ever try. These middle of the road potatoes are great when you want your main dish to stand out and be the star. But, if you’re looking for something to take your potatoes to the next level, then you might want to keep searching. To quote one of our tasters, “I think she discovered this recipe when she was in jail.” 

Three women sit at a table with papers and plates.

Anthony Bourdain’s Buttery Robuchon-Style Mashed Potatoes

Before we get into the specifics of Anthony Bourdain’s butter-rich recipe, we should note you need to serve these potatoes as soon as you make them. If the butter sits too long, it becomes a bit of a congealed mess. However, when these mashed potatoes come fresh out of the pot, they’re one of the most delicious recipes we have ever had. So you might be wondering, just how much butter goes into these mashed potatoes? Six sticks of unsalted butter. That’s right, there are six sticks of butter in this vibrant golden recipe.

While this might sound like too much, we promise it’s not. When it first comes out the potatoes absorb the butter so well that you don’t have that pooling on top that you normally get when mixing in melted butter. This is one of those recipes that left us asking, “Why does butter have to be so good?” 

Three men sit at a table holding their forks up.

José Andrés’ Manchego Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Manchego cheese is lovely, flavorful cheese with a nutty sweetness and a hint of salt. This also makes an excellent cheese to melt into mashed potatoes since it cuts through all the other ingredients. For José Andrés’ Manchego Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, you’ll also use olive oil instead of butter and plenty of roasted garlic to form a flavor that’s unlike any other mashed potatoes you’ve had. These potatoes actually split our group into a discussion about what mashed potatoes should be and what is too outside the box. Some of our tasters loved the sharp manchego taste and the light indulgence of olive oil. But, other tasters thought the manchego took over the flavor a bit too much, resulting in mashed potatoes you would prefer a smaller serving of. 

A cast iron pan of Green Chile and Cheddar Mashed Potatoes with a spoon, salt, and orange flowers beside the pan.

Keith Recker’s Cheddar Green Chile Mashed Potatoes

While our Editor-in-Chief is not a famous chef, we do have to say he makes some mean mashed potatoes. Recently, Recker explored the possibilities of what can be added to mashed potatoes. Looking for a bit of a kick, he prioritized green chile and then took the recipe from there. His Cheddar Green Chile Mashed Potatoes add a savory bite to your usual cheddar mashed potatoes. They’re the most flavorful on our list due to the perfect combination of green chile heat and rich cheddar cheese. He notes that he came up with the recipe while trying to find a way to elevate his usual roasted chicken. Our group immediately dug into these piles of cheese-drenched potatoes that are truly a holiday specialty. It’s one of those recipes that you keep on hand for when you really want to impress your guests. Try the recipe for yourself here.

A Note on Reheating Mashed Potatoes 

If we learned one important thing from this taste test it’s that mashed potatoes are not meant to be reheated, period. Unless you decide to press your leftovers into pancakes that you fry in oil, reheating flattens textures and flavors. When you reheat mashed potatoes, something weird happens with the consistency. The whole thing starts to break down and fall apart, separating butter from potato and creating a grainy texture. In order to get the best mashed potatoes possible, we recommend making them right before your dinner. This way they’re still warm and utterly fluffy, allowing the ingredients to meld rather than separate. 

So, What is the Best Mashed Potato Recipe?

We know it sounds cheesy but it’s true: The best mashed potato recipe is the one you enjoy with the people you love. We found that while sitting around a large table together as our own little family, no matter what mashed potatoes we were tasting, we were satisfied. So, feel free to stick to the classic recipe you know and love. Or, try something new that brings a bit of adventure to your dining table. Either way, you’re eating mashed potatoes, and that’s one of the best ways to live.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photos Courtesy of Keith Recker

Poached Pears in Spiced Red Wine 

By
Keith Recker
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0
Three poached pears in a red color sit on a small plate while a larger plate and bowl holds another full pear off to the side of the table setting.

One of winter’s most gorgeous fruits is the pear. It’s simple, sweet flavor and crunchy texture stay ripe and ready during the colder months. But, what if you could take this fruit and make it into a tender and delicious delicacy. By poaching pears in a bit of dry red wine, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, coriander, lemon, and ginger, you create stunning red pears drizzled overtop with syrup. Just one bite fills your mouth and soul with feelings of comfort and quiet luxury.

What are Poached Pears?

Poached pears gently cook in a liquid until they become tender while still keeping their shape. The poaching liquid is usually a mixture of water, wine, juice, or syrup. Often it’s also flavored with sugar, spices, citrus peel, or vanilla to reflect those seasonal tastes. As the pears slowly simmer, they absorb the flavors and develop a soft, delicate texture. Try pairing them with ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Print
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Three poached pears in a red color sit on a small plate while a larger plate and bowl holds another full pear off to the side of the table setting.

Poached Pears in Spiced Red Wine 

  • Author: Keith Recker
Print Recipe

Description

Stunning red pears make for a beautiful centerpiece.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 4 cups dry red wine (e.g., Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 4 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 tsp whole cloves
  • 1 tsp whole cardamon pods
  • ½ tsp whole coriander seeds
  • 1” fresh ginger, cut into 4 slices
  • Zest of one lemon (cut in strips with vegetable peeler)
  • 6 to 8 firm Bartlett Pears, peeled and cored, and trimmed to have a flat base**
  • 2 tsp Vnlla Cncept Pure Vanilla Extract

Instructions

  1. In a nine-quart Dutch oven, add sugar, wine, spices and zest. Put on high heat and stir until the mixture is steaming. Turn heat to low.
  2. Stand 6 to 8 pears upright in the liquid. 6 makes for easier maneuvering but 8 is fine. Baste them with a large spoon. Cover tightly and let simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Baste them again, and tip them over gently so that one side is immersed in wine. Stir very gently. Cover tightly and let simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Using two spoons, turn the pears so that the uncolored side is immersed in wine. Stir very gently. Cover tightly and let simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Using a sharp paring knife, check the thickest part of the largest pear for tenderness. If it is not tender all the way through, flip the pears again, and simmer for another 10 minutes and check again. Cook until tender.
  6. Once tender, remove the pears with two spoons and stand them on a large plate or platter. Once cool, cover with cling film and set aside.
  7. Remove the whole spices. Reduce the poaching liquid over a low flame, stirring every couple of minutes until it has a syrupy consistency and can coat the back of a spoon. Stir in vanilla extract. Reduce a little more if necessary, but only a little to let the vanilla come through fully.
  8. Cover the Dutch oven until serving time, at which point, gently warm the syrup a bit. Plate the pears individually with a scoop of vanilla icing. Drizzle with warm syrup. Serve quickly!
  9. Keep extra syrup in a jar for future ice cream desserts.
  10. If you have any leftover pears, refrigerate until the next day. Using a sheet of store-bought pie crust defrosted according to package instructions, make a galette!
  11. Place a round of pie crust on a foil- or Silpat-covered baking sheet. Place thin slices of poached pear over the crust, leaving at least an inch uncovered around all edges.
  12. Once the pear slices are placed, fold up the uncovered edges to create a crust. Brush with eggwash. Bake until crust is golden brown. Serve on its own or with ice cream. Drizzle with extra syrup.
  13. Refrigerate extra syrup in a lidded jar. Drizzle over ice cream and/or fresh berries. Make a kir cocktail by stirring a few spoons into white wine or champagne. Don’t waste a drop.

Notes

We have also used wonderful Asian Pears from Subarashii Kudamono for this recipe and would happily do so again!

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Recipe by Keith Recker
Styling by Danny Mankin
Table Setting by Colleen Simonds
Tablecloth and Placemat from Mrs. Alice
Plates from Anthropologie
Blue Vintage Glasses from Bryce Glass
Napkins from Amanda Lindroth
Bamboo Flatware, Found
Photography by Star Laliberte

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Last Minute Gifts for Holiday Hosts and Hostesses

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
A woman sits on the floor, opening a white present with a gold bow.

The holidays have a way of sneaking up on even the most organized guests. If you’re headed to a festive dinner or overnight stay and realize you need a thoughtful host or hostess gift now, don’t panic. These classic, easy-to-find options are always appreciated and never feel rushed. Plus, each of them ensure your gift goes to good use rather than just sitting around someone’s house for decades.

The Best Last Minute Host and Hostess Gifts

Flowers/Plants

A fresh bouquet or a small potted plant instantly brightens a home and adds a little life when the dead of winter hits. Go for seasonal blooms or greenery. If at all possible, you should also choose something that doesn’t require immediate arranging. This way your host can set your gift as a centerpiece right on the dining table. In need of a spot to get your flowers from? These Pittsburgh nurseries have you covered.

Wine

A good bottle of wine is a timeless host gift that’s been around since your grandparents were young. When picking out a style, choose something versatile that pairs well with a variety of meals. Otherwise a crowd-pleasing red or sparkling option is perfect for when you’re in doubt. Just ensure the house you’re headed too has a corkscrew on hand or you may just want to add that in as well. For suggestions, check out our article on the best bottles to gift during the holiday season.

Candles

You may think of candles as a basic holiday gift but they’re elegant and practical which is a win-win in our book. If you’re not sure what scent your host enjoys, look for subtle, cozy ones like pine, vanilla, or citrus. These all suit the winter season without overwhelming the space. Bonus points for beautiful packaging that doubles as décor and a wood wick that sets the mood as if there’s a burning log in the fireplace.

Cookies/Other Holiday Treats

Edible gifts are always a win. Whether it’s bakery cookies, artisanal chocolates, or festive holiday treats, these gifts can be enjoyed immediately or shared with guests. With our help, you can even make up your own edible gifts here like infused spirits, cases of cookies, and Earl Gray Salted Caramels for snacking.

Olive Oil/Balsamic Vinegar

In case your hosts are not the drinking type, there’s a different kind of bottle you can gift this holiday season. High-quality olive oils and balsamic vinegar feels both luxurious and useful. Plus, both are something we often wouldn’t buy ourselves but would be more than happy to receive. It’s a thoughtful choice for hosts who love to cook and a gift that won’t collect dust on a shelf.

TABLE Magazine Subscription

The gift that just keeps on giving, a subscription to our print copy of TABLE Magazine provides you with entertainment, recipes, helpful tips, and lots more all throughout the year. For those hosts who appreciate food, design, and entertaining, this magazine showing up to their door is sure to bring a burst of joy anytime it arrives. Not to mention, you may just inspire them to gift a subscription next holiday, too.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Kateryna Hliznitsova

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The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Entertaining

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
A group of people cheers champagne glasses over a table.

The holiday season is upon us, and it’s time to start planning your Christmas gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or a grand holiday bash, this guide has everything you need to make your celebration unforgettable. From dazzling decorations and delectable dishes to festive cocktails and heartwarming gifts, we’ve got you covered. So, flourish in the holiday spirit and let’s dive into the Ultimate Guide to Christmas Entertaining.

The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Entertaining

For Brunch and Dinner Planning

10 Recipes for a Magical Christmas Brunch

An easy breakfast bake made with eggs, presented in a pie dish in the upper left corner, with a piece on a plate, and forks to the right of the pie dish.

The best Christmas Day gathering starts with a delicious brunch after the hours of opening gifts. Treat your guests to two meals this year with our simple and tasty options for brunch. From ooey-gooey cinnamon rolls to savory breakfast bakes, we have it all.

Garden Vegetable Sides for Your Next Holiday Meal

An aerial shot of a sheet pan covered in green beans and potatoes.

Freshly grown garden vegetables can add a pop of color and a healthy crunch to your holiday table. And don’t worry, we bring veggies up to their natural elegance with dishes like Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage, Brussels Sprouts in Orange and Apricot Sauce, and much more.

Healthy Recipes to Stay On Track During the Holidays

A red bowl filled with shaved Brussels sprouts topped with cranberries, almonds and shredded cheese. Small accompanying bowls contain additional Brussels sprouts, shredded cheese and almonds.

The holidays don’t have to be full of endless sweets and fried foods. Keep yourself feeling good this year by providing healthy recipes for your guests. A lot of times, these recipes also accompany anyone with food allergies or specific diets so it’s a win-win for everyone!

Sweet Potato Sides to Liven Up Your Holiday Meal

A delectable brunch dish featuring a savory combination of sweet potato and pork belly hash, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal to start the day.

You can’t go wrong substituting sweet potatoes for your usual mashed potatoes. Whether they’re smashed, stacked, mashed, or baked, with a little butter and savory seasonings these recipes can add a new festive spirit to your dinner.

Cranberry Recipes for the Holiday Season

A plate with a seared pork chop topped with cranberry-bourbon sauce, alongside small bowls of shaved Brussels sprouts salad.

The ingredient of the season deserves to be a main feature of your holiday meal. We’ll show you all kinds of ways to use cranberries such as in our Cranberry Orange Fig Compote as an appetizer or Winter White Pavlova for dessert.

6 Holiday Sides by Chef Jackie Page

A round crackled looking plate with 6 bacon potato roses garnished with fresh rosemary, a glass or red wine and a stack of little plates and forks.

Chef Jackie Page has an upgrade to any classic Christmas side dish. Dive into elevated Green Bean Casserole, Corn Pudding Cakes, and even Pear and Goat Cheese Bites. These side dishes are a bit more decadent and a lot of deliciousness.

6 More Side Dishes for Your Holiday Feast

Roasted Wild Mushrooms and Potatoes with Chimichurri served in a black tray with a black background

The side dishes are truly the magic of a holiday feast so you can’t go wrong with adding on something new this year. Look forward to winter fare like Roasted Pears, Pan-Roasted Carrots with Tahini Sauce, and Crispy Artichokes with Lemony Breadcrumbs.

8 Squash Recipes to Complete Your Holiday Dinner

A variety of roasted squash on a baking sheet filled with orange slices and spices.

Squash is another staple of the holidays that can be dressed up in ways that’ll have even the pickiest eaters falling in love. Source squash from your local farmer’s market then serve your family Savory Black Truffle Bread Pudding Stuffed Squash, Roasted Squash Tartine with Honey Mascarpone, and Roasted Squash with Pesto and Crumbled Goat Cheese.

Stuffing Recipes to Get Creative with Your Holiday Sides

Three black bowls hold three servings of stuffing with forks inside each bowl and a red cloth below the bowls.

Even after Thanksgiving, stuffing sticks in our minds for its delectable meld of flavors and textures. We know everyone has their own personal recipe but in case you’re looking to shake things up this year we’re dishing out some of our favorites. Not to mention, we include a recipe for completely individual customized stuffing ramekins so everyone can enjoy the ingredients they love.

Brussels Sprouts Recipes to Adorn Your Holiday Table

Seared Brussels Sprouts with Walnuts & Pancetta, a delicious side dish, cooked in a cast-iron skillet with Dijon mustard and champagne vinegar for added flavor.

Brussels sprouts are one of our favorite cold weather veggies for its adaptability. There’s a lot you can do with Brussels sprouts whether it’s roasting, pan frying, tossing in sauce, or combining into a salad.

Decoration and Plating Suggestions

Holiday Punch Bowls!

A punch bowl from West Elm with orange liquid in it staged on a table

If you’re holding a large gathering that includes batched cocktails, a special punch bowl can add a bit of elegance and fun to your drink table. The best part is these beautiful bowls come with their own matching glassware so you can serve your guests in style.

5 Winter Table Settings

A stack of blue floral patterned plates sit beside opaque blue glasses, silverware, and other decorations.
Photo courtesy of @casadeperrin

If you want to change up your usual tablecloth or dinnerware, we have 5 settings to provide inspiration for the winter season. Take advantage of stunning blues and festive patterns that you’ll be proud to display.

Winter Wonderland Decorations to Keep Your Home Festive

A display of Christmas decorations from Pottery Barn, including small trees and a plate set with a napkin and green bow

Skip the big stores and invest in winter decorations that’ll last year after year. By browsing these products and taking in some of our tips, you’ll be turning your home into the most magical spot for a Christmas celebration.

Pick the Best Nativity Set This Year

A backlit wooden nativity scene with an ombré glow

Some families have a tradition of buying a new nativity set each year. We have your top picks for a variety of sets that can match the aesthetic of your home. Go beyond the basic wood look this season.

Christmas in South Africa with Algria Ferreira-Watlings

A table set with candles and sprigs of Christmas plants, surrounded by grey throw pillows

Minimalism is in and Algria Ferreira-Watlings is teaching you how to apply this style to your Christmas decor. Take a look around her home and hear from this decor specialist on how to make minimalism work for you.

Fancy Up Your Christmas Dessert Table

Pie Recipes to Fill Your Holiday Table

A baked pie sits in a pie tin with a slice of apple pie sitting on a brown plate in front of the pie, topped with an anise star.

You can’t have a dessert table without some type of pie in the center. We have recipes for traditional pies like apple or experimental types like our Cherry Blueberry Pie. There are even a few chocolate pies for those who have more of a sweet tooth and of course Sweet Potato Pie as an essential for the season.

A few holiday themed Iced Sugar Cookies sit on a metal tin tray with ribbon and ornament bulbs around the try.

It does not have to be just up to you to get the house ready for the gathering. Include the kids this year by having them help bake kid-friendly cookie recipes. They’ll feel so special seeing their Gingerbread, Chocolate Chip, and Pumpkin cookies adorn the table.

a variety of strawberry thumbprint cookies laid out on a red table and covered in Christmas sprinkles

Beyond our kid-friendly cookies, we have so many more festive recipes that sparkle with sugars, icing, and sprinkles. Here you’ll find favorites like our Peanut Butter Cookies and our special creations like the Orange Cranberry Swirl Cookies with a jolly red filling.

3 Peppermint Desserts to Make for Festive Holiday Celebrations

Three champagne flutes filled with peppermint desserts, pink, white, and brown stripes in color.

You cannot make it through December without tasting something with a peppermint touch. This winter flavor is perfect as a trifle, a cake, or just about anything your mind can imagine. Each of these recipes end in a stunning display of white and red that’ll have you looking like a pro.

These Christmas Cakes Can Sweeten Your Table This Year

A Stanley Tucci inspired delizia al limone layer cake on a green background

Just about everyone likes some type of cake whether it’s full of cream or berries, or both! We even have a recipe for Melted Snowman Cake Pops that’ll win over the kids with their cute little faces and moist inside.

50 Holiday Dessert Recipes to Satisfy Your Festive Sweet Tooth

Sugar cookies shaped like snowflakes on a black background!

Cakes, cookies, brownies, and all other sweets and confections find a place in our 50 holiday dessert recipes. We make sure to cover all our bases for traditional cookies such as Lady Locks, new unique spins like a Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust, and even favorites you may have forgotten like Apple Crisp.

Cocktails and Beverages For All

50 Holiday Cocktails to Serve to Your Friends and Family

Twelve cocktails for Twelve Days of Christmas shot in a side view on a cheery, holiday decor table

Even the pickiest people can find something in our list of 50 holiday cocktails to enjoy. Whether you’re searching for something soul-warming or something on the brighter side, there’s a little bit of everything here. Think sangrias, punches, twists on classic cocktails, and so much more.

Holiday Batched Cocktails for Your Gatherings

A glass filled with an amber colored negroni batch cocktail garnished with a candied ginger slice, illustrating the "Starlight Negroni" batch cocktail.

If you are having a large gathering, batched cocktails are going to be your key to keeping the drinks floating without having to worry about on-demand mixing. The best part is that many of our recipes are twists on classic cocktails you already love. Try the Piña Paradise Mojito or the Spice is Nice Sangria for something a bit more festive.

6 Wines for the Holiday Table

Four people toast at a Holiday setting with holiday wine glasses over a table full of food and candles.
Photo courtesy of Kraken Images

Not sure what wine will accompany your main course? As long as you know what type of protein you’re cooking, we can give you options that will compliment the nuances of your selection. The best part is we always include an affordable option for those working ona. budget.

Drink Your Way Through the Twelve Days of Christmas with These Cocktails

Twelve cocktails for the twelve days of Christmas, staged with cheery decor

When the Twelve Days of Christmas song gets stuck in your head, mix up a cocktail to let your thoughts drift elsewhere! If you want to get creative this year with your beverage options, serve up one (or if you’re ambitious, all) of the Twelve Days of Christmas in a glass. Get ready for Eight Maids a Milking and Three French Hens in cocktail form.

Hot Cocktails for Chilly Nights

Two stemless wine glasses with mulled wine sitting on a snowy surface with pine greens, garnished with a cinnamon stick, star anise, and an orange slice.

Let’s face it, December isn’t exactly the warmest month of the year. Comfort and heat up your guests with these hot cocktail recipes. Whether it’s Mulled Wine or a Hot Toddy, a glass by the fire is sure to resolve any tensions over the holiday season.

11 Cocktails Inspired by Christmas Movies

Two red rocks glasses with a spring of rosemary garnish, sitting on a snowy surface with a round Christmas ball that. looks like Santa's outfit.

Christmas movies are one of the biggest joys of the holiday season. Whether your favorite is Elf, A Christmas Story, or even Santa Claus is Coming to Town, we have the perfect cocktail to match while you cuddle up on the couch. Let this movie and drink combo whisk you away to happy holidays.

The Best Wines for Your Holiday Dinner Table

Two champagne flutes with red wine on a holiday table with lights and bulbs.

Overall, what are the best wines for your dinner table? Don’t worry, our wine expert is here to help! Be on the latest trends this season and have your family or friends sipping on something that’s seriously impressive.

Picking Out the Perfect Gift

Try Making an Edible Gift This Holiday Season

A bottle of Sugar Plum and Sage Infused Vodka sits on a table in front of three tall glasses.

Turns out you don’t have to buy gifts every year, you can just make them instead! These gifts from the heart are edible surprises that come in handy in every day life. Maybe you’ll make your guests a batch of Earl Gray Sea Salt Caramels or provide them with a jar of Homemade Chili Crisp to use in their recipes at home.

Struggling to Pick Grab Bag Gifts? Weirdly, AI Can Help

An image of a grab bag full of gifts, generated by AI

If you’re looking to give your family members, friends, or coworkers a grab bag gift at your gathering, AI can help with that. Yes, believe it or not, AI actually has some pretty handy tips for grab bag gifting. We put your chat-bot bestie to the test to see just what it would suggest and results were genuinely shocking.

Best Gifts For Hard-to-Shop-For People

A brown wrapped gift sits on a white cloth table with a plaid hanker-chief beneath it and a pine branch in a ceramic pitcher.

Gifting can be one of the most stressful parts of the holidays when its someone that just feels impossible to buy anything for. But, don’t worry, we have suggestions to make gifting to coworkers, teens, people who have everything, and even frenemies a breeze. Who knew gift shopping could be so simple?

13 Top Perfumes to Gift Someone Special

A bottle of perfume from Bon Parfumeur on a green backgroud

For that person in your life that you love the most, a perfume is the perfect combination of elegance and personalization. We have a list of the top 13 perfumes that you’ll want to gift this year. Plus, there is enough variety to find something to suit anyone’s taste and price-point.

Impress With These Sparkling Wines for Your Hostess Gift

A woman stands in front of a Christmas tree holding a glass of sparkling white wine

If you happen to not be the hostess this year, it’s important to bring a hostess gift that’s plentiful and mouthwatering. A sparkling wine shows that you care about their time and effort and gifts them a way to relax after all the chaos has ensued. Needless to say, they’re the real heroes this Christmas.

Keep Your Holiday Gift Wrapping Eco-Friendly

An eco-friendly wrapped gift, tied with twine and a natural paper tag with a stamped Christmas tree, next to a woven yellow fabric roll.

Did you know around 2.3 million pounds of wrapping paper end up in landfills after Christmas? Make a difference this year by choosing the eco-friendly route. We’re giving you all the tips you need for stylish gift wrapping that also helps our planet.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Things to Do with Kids in Pittsburgh While Indoors

By
Kylie Thomas
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Three adults cheer for a little kid holding a putt putt stick.

When it’s cold outside and there’s no snow on the ground, it’s nearly impossible to find things to do with kids in Pittsburgh that let your little ones expend some energy. Don’t worry, though: you can have just as much active fun with an indoor activity, and you’ll stay warm in the process. Maybe you’ll join in the fun and become a kid at heart again. Whether your family is jumping through the air on a trampoline or learning to climb a rock wall, get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime. 

Things to Do with Kids in Pittsburgh While Indoors

Urban Air Adventure Park

Get ready to jump, climb, and fly as you explore trampolines, rock walls, dodgeball, warrior courses, and so much more, at Urban Air Adventure Park. This isn’t your average trampoline park. It’s crafted with various types of attractions so that people of all ages have something to enjoy like trampoline dodgeball or just traditional bouncing. 

Museum of Illusions Pittsburgh

This new museum on the North Shore immerses you in the world of illusions, where nothing is quite as it seems. Explore a spinning Vortex Tunnel, tiptoe through the Tilted Room, and even serve up your own head on a silver platter. It all sounds crazy, but you’ll just have to trust us and see for yourself.

Kamin Science Center

As a part of the Kamin Science Center, the Sports360 and Bodyworks exhibits get your little ones’ heart pumping. They will get all their wiggles out with activities that combine sport exercises and science. The lastest from the Sports360 exhibit lets your child test their skills in baseball, hockey, football, soccer, and basketball simulators. Whether you wish to be on an NFL team or simply driving the zamboni, there’s something for everyone.

Fun Slides Carpet Skatepark

Looking for things to do with kids in Pittsburgh for ages 3 and up? Keep out of the cold and get the a snowboarding or skiing experience…with carpet skates. It’s as easy as sliding across the hardwood floor in your socks but with ramps and other fun obstacles. Even if carpet skating isn’t your thing they also have blacklight dodgeball, mini golf, arcade, an Ultimate Nerf Arena, and even a glowing inflatable slide and bounce house.

Puttshack

This mini golf course will make you feel like you’re living in the future. With new technology, the golf balls at Puttshack track your game for you, scoring a range of points depending on how you play the game. You’ll want to score as many points as possible by landing your ball in the glowing supertube or hitting bonus goals. Some holes may be a bit too challenging for younger players, there is literally one where you must bounce your ball off various drums, so it’s recommended for children seven or older. 

Ice Castle Arena

Since the weather fluctuates so often in Pennsylvania, you’re probably better off planning an ice skating day indoors so you don’t end up with the ice melting beneath your skates and rain soaking your from head to toe. Head on over to the Ice Castle Arena and skate the day away. A concession stand is on hand in case your stomach starts rumbling. Plus, on the weekends, the arena is covered in “disco” lighting. 

Fun Fore All

Who doesn’t love a day at the video game arcade? The thrill of trying to win tickets for a prize of your choice makes that day especially memorable. At Fun Fore All, you can play for tickets or just for fun. But, if video games aren’t quite your thing (we’re looking at you parents), you can also play a game of duckpin bowling as your little ones run around.

MuseumLab

As an extension of the Children’s Museum, MuseumLab allows kids 9 and older to have cutting-edge experiences in art, tech and making. Climb a three-story lace sculpture created by artist Manca Ahlin, explore various interactive art exhibits, or sign up for a class to learn hands-on STEM skills. 

Ascend

South Side and Point Breeze’s climbing, fitness, and yoga gym isn’t just for adults. Both locations have youth programming customized for all different age groups. Not to mention, if you’d like to join your child, they have family climb classes where you can learn the basics of safety, bouldering, rope wall climbing, and more side by side.

Pittsburgh Toy Lending

For families with young children from birth through preschool age, this volunteer‑run play space and toy library is a dream come true. Kids can explore a variety of age‑appropriate toys and play areas that encourage imaginative and physical play like ride‑ons, building blocks, play kitchens, and creative activity zones. They’ll also get to socialize with other children their age which is always good for young brains.

Sandbox VR

In case your kids are a little older and also video game lovers, Sandbox VR hits the jackpot. Full‑body motion capture, VR headsets, and haptic feedback vests put you directly into virtual worlds as you team up to fight zombies, hunt for treasure, explore fantasy realms, or complete missions together. You’ll be walking, dodging, and interacting in the game environment just like you’re stepping into the world yourself.

Flour Power Cooking Studios

Do you have a passionate cook or baker in the house? Let them explore their passion alongside your whole family with a cooking class. For families, there are interactive cooking events designed so parents and kids can cook and bond together while also exploring new foods and techniques. Though, there are also Kids’ Night Out events where young chefs take part in a cooking session on a Friday night, giving adults a chance for some free time.

Moonshot Museum

One of the newest museums in Pittsburgh is here to take you all the way to outer space and beyond. Inside, families can explore interactive exhibits that have them take part in simulated lunar missions, design mission patches, experiment with rover engineering challenges, and imagine what it takes to live on the Moon. It’s a way for the whole family to learn something new all while enjoying themselves, too.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Puttshack

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8 Classes in Pittsburgh to Help Start Your New Year’s Resolution

By
Kylie Thomas
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An instructor shows a student how to blow glass in a class.

It’s a new year, and that means new goals for the citizens of Pittsburgh! If your resolution includes things like moving more, learning a new hobby, dosing up on some self care, or perfecting how to set your own goals, we’ve compiled a list of classes to get you started. Take this opportunity to benefit from the assistance of the professionals who will help get you on the right track. Here are classes for your New Year’s resolution, whether it’s to start yoga, become more creative, or get better at tasting wine. 

Classes in Pittsburgh to Start Your New Year’s Resolution

Hot Glass Blowout

January 4, Pittsburgh Glass Center

If you’re looking to dive into more hands-on hobbies, glass blowing just may be for you. In the hot shop, you’ll learn essential techniques from professionals such as gathering, shaping, and blowing glass while using traditional tools. Students create several small glass pieces while gaining a deeper appreciation for the entire process.

4-Part Photo and Darkroom Series, Supplies Included

January 4, 11, 18, and 25, Guyasuta Lounge

No matter your skill level, this course from a professional photographer showcases all you need to know for shooting photos on your own. The series covers photographic theory and camera basics, hands-on darkroom printing techniques, and digital photography and editing (including Photoshop), all wrapping with a group critique and professional development discussion.

New Year, New Wine

January 7, PA Market

If you find yourself liking one wine over another but you’re not sure why, then learning a bit more about wine tasting can give you a hand. Over about 90 minutes, a wine expert guides your group through a curated flight of wines as they share tasting notes, pairing suggestions, and insider tips to help you explore new styles and flavors in the New Year.

Mosaic Lamp Workshop

Various Dates January 7-31, Mosaic Art Studio

Take the opportunity to create your own Turkish-style mosaic lamp from start to finish with help along the way. You’ll work with colorful hand-cut glass pieces and beads to arrange your own pattern around a lamp base, with all materials provided. Bring along a friend and sip on complimentary Turkish tea and small snacks as you create your masterpiece.

Weekend Wellness Conversations

January 10, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary

The Pittsburgh Chapter of The Links, Inc. brings people together for a thoughtful, interactive conversation around personal wellbeing. The January session, The Empowered Woman: Navigating Your Money Journey in the New Year, features a guided discussion with a financial expert. They’ll offer insights and practical tips to help participants start the year feeling more confident about their financial health.

Metal Clay Charms with Donna Penoyer

January 10, Contemporary Craft

This full-day, hands-on jewelry workshop lets you work with fine silver metal clay to create layered, textured charms. With expert guidance from instructor Donna Penoyer, you’ll experiment with tiny molds, cutters, extruders, and other fun tools to build multiple small charms. She’ll even help you learn signature techniques for adding texture, imagery, and dimension for detail.

Yoga Nidra Moon Circle

January 16, Amazing Yoga Shadyside

Yoga Nidra, often called “yogic sleep,” is a guided meditation practice that brings deep relaxation to the body and mind. In a supportive group setting, instructors Mary and Karen provide you with a space to slow down, connect inwardly, and begin the New Year with quiet clarity and renewal. Participants are encouraged to bring a journal for moments of intention and show up in comfortable clothes.

Woodworking 101 with David Bielewicz

January 21, Contemporary Craft

Not all of us had woodshop in high school so this Woodworking 101 course is sure to come in handy. Learn the essentials of working in a woodshop, including how to use core machines safely and the lumber milling process. You’ll also become more familiar with certain tools, techniques, and the studio space. Everyone leaves with several small sample pieces to show off what they learned.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Glass Center

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Stay Out of the Cold at Indoor Activities in Pittsburgh for Adults

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
A woman bowls a small bowling ball down a lane in a grey sweater and jeans.

We know how hard it is to find a Pittsburgh activity that keeps you engaged as an adult and comfy indoors at the same time. Perhaps it’s time for indoor adventures around Pittsburgh as the cold closes in. There are museums in many neighborhoods, restaurants and shops scattered around the city, and specialty entertainment venues ready to make your day (or evening) off a memorable one. Plan a whole day out with the list below, and you will be climbing to tall heights, solving mystery puzzles with your besties, and competing against your loved ones in axe throwing.

Indoor Activities in Pittsburgh for Adults

Museum of Illusions Pittsburgh

North Shore

This new museum on the North Shore immerses you in the world of illusions, where nothing is quite as it seems. Explore a spinning Vortex Tunnel, tiptoe through the Tilted Room, and even serve up your own head on a silver platter. Sound crazy? You’ll just have to trust us and go see for yourself.

Puttshack

Strip District

This mini golf course will make you feel like you’re living in the future. With new technology, the golf balls at Puttshack track your game for you, scoring you points depending on how you play the game. Unlike regular mini golf, you’ll want to score as many points as possible by landing your ball in the glowing supertube or hitting bonus goals. Plus, there are four courses to try that each have different themes so be sure to come back for another visit to try them all.

Ascend

South Side, Point Breeze

Just because there’s snow on the ground doesn’t mean you can’t go rock climbing. At Ascend there are exercise activities like bouldering, top-roping, slacklining, and much more. They also have a yoga area with classes offered dailey so that even if high energy exercising isn’t your thing, you can still get your body moving. 

Arsenal Bowl

Lawrenceville

This isn’t your grandma’s regular bowling alley. At Arsenal Bowl, which is only for those 21 and over after 9 p.m., you get an old-school bowling experience in a nightclub atmosphere. The alley has different specials all week long so check out their schedule for live band nights, all-you-can-bowl discounts, and drink specials. 

Playground Dropout

Millvale

Grab some friends, book a private lane, and enjoy delicious food while you compete for the spot of Axe Throwing Champion. Plus, you can also take part in indoor ice curling during the winter months with a full service bar right against the ice. There’s even a live game show that you can book for your chance to win big. Or, choose to try your hand at Bombhole that’s like Battleship and cornhole combined.

Escape the Room

South Side

Escape rooms bring out the best and the worst of us all in the funniest way possible. Work together with a group of friends at Escape the Room to solve various puzzles in different themed rooms. Right now you can choose to explore The Agency, The Apartment, or The Dig. Each has a unique storyline and plenty of tricks to solve. 

Shorty’s

North Shore, Waterfront

With two different locations in Pittsburgh you can choose from Shorty’s at the Waterfront or Pins and Pints on the North Shore. At either location, you’ll be welcomed into a space that embraces retro entertainment. After you grab a bite to eat, take part in duckpin bowling, pinball, and shuffleboard at their North Shore location or dartboards, karaoke and XL Connect Four at the Waterfront location. 

Coop de Ville

Strip District

Who said you have to be a kid to enjoy the arcade? At Coop de Ville you can dig into all the Southern comfort food you love and put your quarters to use in the classic arcade. Not to mention their extensive drink menu keeps you sipping all night long. If video games aren’t your thing they also have duckpin bowling, pinball, and billiards. Your whole friend group will have something they can relish in. 

Pittsburgh Pinball Dojo

Bellevue

This ones for all the pinball fanatics out there. Practice your skills on over 50 machines from all across the decades at Pittsburgh Pinball Dojo. Stop in during their Open Play events to pay $15 and play for as long as you’d like. Make sure to bring your own food and beer or buy snacks there and hang out all evening long.

OnPar Now

Strip District

Hitting balls out in the snow is no fun. But, hitting balls on an interactive and immersive indoor green is a blast. Head to OnPar Now to get your practice swings in without shivering the entire time. They provide best-in-class TrackMan simulators, revolutionary putting green with PuttView technology, and Pittsburgh’s only indoor sand trap. If you’re not sure how to golf, they have plenty of instructors more than happy to give you a hand.

The Bocce House

Fox Chapel

At The Bocce House, you’ll find six professionally designed regulation bocce courts with shadow-free lighting and perfectly leveled surfaces. But, besides the bocce fun, you can also indulge in self-serve craft beer and wine as well as authentic Italian food. Or, simply relax in the cigar lounge where premium spirits await you.

Painting with a Twist

South Side

Put a colorful spin on your night out and come home with a painting that you can hang on your wall. In each instructor-led paint and sip session, guests follow step-by-step guidance from local artists to create their own canvas masterpieces. And, you can always bring along your own snacks and beverages to delight in while you paint. There are even special BFF/Date Night paint and sips that allow you and someone you love to create a piece of art that comes together when your two paintings connect.

Mix Candle Co.

South Side Works and Lawrenceville

Have you ever wanted to create your very own candle or perfume? This studio lets you explore more than 100 fragrance options as you mix and match at your own pace and design a scent that reflects your personal style. You can even choose your own jar for your product to come in and, of course, name it too. Your candle will take 2 hours to cool so it also gives you the perfect opportunity to explore the shops and restaurants surrounding the studio.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Coop de Ville

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Best Gifts For Hard-to-Shop-For People

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
A brown wrapped gift sits on a white cloth table with a plaid hanker-chief beneath it and a pine branch in a ceramic pitcher.

Gifting can be hard. It’s often a challenge to come up with ideas for teens, coworkers, frenemies, and people who have everything. You can spend endless hours walking up and down aisles or scrolling through web pages attempting to find the perfect present…and still be unsure that you’ve made the right choice. Take a little bit of the pressure off this year and browse the ideas below for those hard to gift people. 

Best Gifts For Hard-to-Shop-For People

Gifts for Neighbors

Ceramics

Quality matters when it comes to holiday gifting. No one wants a piece of plastic that falls apart in two seconds. We recommend going for a ceramic art piece or kitchenware that they could use. Heading to your local markets and galleries will present you with an array of ceramic sculptures that add luxury to any room. In terms of kitchenware, consider getting them a ceramic tea kettle or mug set. Feel free to include various teas and hot chocolates to get them started.

Baked Goods/Edible Gifts

We will never turn down a tray of cookies or a homemade pie to heat up in the oven. Giving your neighbors baked goods or other delicious treats means you know your gift is genuinely useful. Fruit baskets, desserts, or even casseroles are a must. You could even go further than just picking up a cake on the home and focus on syrups or sauces that they can use long past the holidays. For inspiration, check out our guide on edible gifts to make at home.

Coasters

If there’s one thing you learn as a host, it’s that you can never have enough coasters. These things break in half, wear down too thin, and seem to just go missing at the most random of times. There are even wood coasters available online that you can the seller carve your neighbor’s last name into. Or, if you know something specific your neighbor enjoys, you can find them a set of coasters with that theme.

Gifts for In-laws

Quality Cocrkscrew

If your in-laws happen to be wine lovers, a beautiful, accessible corkscrew is a must for every home. You could even get their initials or last name engraved on the opener to make it feel more personalized. Plus, there are always the electric wine openers too that means your in-laws never have to struggle with a bottle again.

Digital Photo Frame

What in-law doesn’t love looking at photos of their grandkids? Rather than printing out just one image this year, invest in a digital photo frame that slides through hundreds of photos. Depending on what kind you buy, there are ones that allow you to add photos remotely, meaning you can surprise the in-laws with new photos all year long. The gift that just keeps on giving.

Subscriptions

Whether it’s a subscription to their favorite magazine, an NFL package for a football lovers TV, book of the month for bibliophiles, or even a meal plan kit that makes dinner a breeze for the mother-in-law, subscriptions can make life easier and more enjoyable. These can also help them save money by covering a few months on a subscription they already have.

Custom Paintings

Wedding, family, grandkid, and pet photos are all great references to get your in-laws a custom painting. All you have to do is find an artist online (or even better, locally!) and send them over the photo you would like made into a painting. You can even look for certain art mediums such as watercolor, illustrative sketches, digital drawings, and so much more.

Gifts for Boss/Coworkers

Candles

Simple and versatile. Scents, colors, and shapes for every type of person. You can’t go wrong with a candle. Not only is candle shopping fun for you (we love sniffing every candle in the store), candles also provide an aromatic atmosphere to someone’s space. Help your giftees create a cozy vibe with a calming candle that comforts them as soon as they’re home from work or school. Or, pick out something energizing to start their mornings with.

Stationary

Coworkers and students uses pens, pencils, and notebooks. So do “civilians.” Picking out one of these items with a personalization like an initial or inside joke hit close to home and are actually useful. Your giftees will be so happy when they’re looking for a pen and remember the one you gave them for the holidays is in their bag. 

Sweets

Being able to indulge in a sweet every once in a while is one of the little blissful moments in life. Gift your coworker an assortment of local sweets, or perhaps international varieties, for an edible surprise. Just be careful of allergies when it comes to gifting sweets. We recommend picking out vegan and gluten/nut-free candies to ensure they’re able to delight in their treats.

Desk Accessories

Now, we don’t mean the little prank desk accessories you can get from the dollar store. We mean aesthetically pleasing fake plants, stylish mouse pads, or even a cute and comfy cushion for their desk chair. Something new in their space will have your giftee feeling refreshed and at more home. 

Travel Mugs

Everyone needs their morning coffee or tea before starting work. Pick your coworker up a new travel mug that’ll help them keep their morning beverage warm (or cold) and add a pop of their personality to their routine. Simple patterns are great for most but you can also get specific with a certain TV or music show themed mug. 

Gifts for Teens 

When it comes to teens, gift cards give them the ability to make their own decisions and save the embarrassment of buying a present that’s “cringe.” Plus, you can personalize these options by choosing a favorite of your teens.

Concert Gift Card or Tickets

Live music is as popular as ever with artists like Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, and Sabrina Carpenter selling out arenas and beyond. Put a huge smile on someone’s face by surprising them with tickets to their favorite artists’ show or a gift card to buy whatever tickets they like. While the concert ticket route can be a little bit more special, sometimes it’s better to go with a gift card to be safe rather than sorry that you got the wrong tickets. 

Makeup Store Gift Card

To put it simply, makeup is expensive. Let your teen treat themself with a gift card to their favorite makeup store. Whether it’s Ulta or Sephora or an online shop, this present lets them splurge on those items they would not normally get. Plus, it makes sure you don’t pick up a brand that doesn’t work for them.  

Athleisure Store Gift Card

Nike, Adidas, and beyond, athleisure is a part of the younger generation’s style. You’ll often see them in Nike Air Forces with a Champion hoodie. Even socks have become an important part of teens’ everyday lives. Pick them up a gift card to their favorite brand or seek out one for Dick’s Sporting Goods if you aren’t sure what brands they like. 

Book Store Gift Cards

The rise of BookTok comes with a band of teenagers who thirst for physical literature. Don’t know what books are popular or are on their TBR (to be read)? Opt for a gift card to one of the Disneylands of reading: Barnes & Noble or Books-A-Million. Or, you can pick up one from your local used or independent bookstore to help support small businesses and give your teen a chance to buy even more books at often discounted prices. 

Gas and Fast Food Gift Cards

Hitting 16 and starting to drive takes some money out of your pocket. Give your teen a little help this year with a gas station gift card to fill up their tank or a gift card to their favorite fast-casual restaurant for a quick bite. Being able to not worry about prices for once and having a little extra fuel will have your teen in the Christmas spirit. 

Gifts for Frenemies

Ah, the people you don’t exactly get along with but still have to purchase them a gift. We’ve all been in the position where putting in the effort for a good present feels like a betrayal of our moral values. Thankfully, there are ways you can get a little snarky while still spreading holiday cheer. 

Plant

What could be more tedious than caring for a plant? You never know exactly how much water or sunlight to get it. Plus, receiving a plant in the winter is a risky game due to the frost outside. All these tiny issues make it perfect for gifting to your frenemy. Not to mention, you can get them a cactus if you really want to get your point across.

Self Help Book

Whether it’s about having a positive attitude or how to get along better in the workplace, a helpful book is a great way to project your feelings without being too straight-forward. Maybe they’re really bad with computers, so you get them a book like Laptops for Dummies. Or, maybe they have anger issues and a journal to help them be at peace is the perfect nail in the coffin. How spicy you want to get is up to you!

Sarcastic Mug

Let your feelings for your frenemy fly with a mug that has a sarcastic kick. While you should probably keep things PG-rated, a mug that plays at your relationship is a great way to break the ice. Plus, it’s something useful so at the end of the day it’s a good gift regardless of the phrase. 

Gifts For People Who Have Everything

We know this one is a toughie. People who have everything, or people who don’t want anything, are impossible to give to. But, we’re happy to say there are unique options that we promise your friends and family do not have at home. 

Experiences

A live experience is something that you can never recreate. For your someone special, gift them an experience such as wine tasting events, pasta making classes, crafting workshops, or even exclusive VIP or backstage events. Eventbrite, ClassPass, or Groupon, often have some great options. Chances are the person you’re gifting to has never had one of these given to them, and it’ll leave them with memories that’ll last a lifetime, rather than a knickknack that’ll break in a year. 

All Year Museum Passes 

Art, music, and sport museums are a great way to spend a day off or take in a moment of self-care. Gifting an all year pass or membership to a local museum can provide them with something to do when they’re bored and it’s truly the gift that just keeps on giving. Plus, if you get them a membership, they’ll often get first-looks at new exhibits and other exclusives. 

Donate to Charity in Their Name

If your loved one is an activist or just has a passion for a certain cause, donating to a charity in their name can be a personal touch on a normally materialistic day. Sometimes you can even plant a tree, adopt an animal, or sponsor a child in the name of your person as well. Just be sure you print off the official certificate so they have something to open. 

Subscribe Them to TABLE Magazine 

They have everything…but do they have recipes, style advice, and cocktails from a carefully curated Pittsburgh-based luxury lifestyle magazine? Just kidding. (Or not).

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez

Subscribe to TABLE Magazine’s print edition.

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