Food is a wonderful the gift for the person who has everything. The best part is there are many companies that will put their edibles in the mail, so no matter where your friends and family live, you can contribute to their holiday weight gain. Every Christmas my Aunt Genevieve would send us a massive box from Harry and David with fresh pears and apples alongside a dried fruit and nut spread. It is still one of my fondest memories of the season and the catalyst for this blog post.
The list below is of many of my favorite places that I have had the opportunity to visit in my travels. It is not an exhaustive list but a good one nonetheless if you are struggling to find a special gift for that special someone.
Harry and David – Of course they lead the list. I highly recommend the Rivera Pears, and the Christmas Pear Decorating Kit is pretty adorable for the kids.
Beecher’s – A well traveled (and fed) pilot once told me that if I was ever in Seattle I had to have Beecher’s mac and cheese. I can never thank her enough for telling me about this spot. If you have a mac and cheese lover on your list send them a tray, but be sure to order yourself one too. You don’t want to deny yourself the experience.
Annette & Sumpter Pâtissière – I was proud to serve as a guinea pig for some of Annete & Sumpter’s founder Brandy Bart’s early creations. She officially popped my Kouign Amann (the yummies in the photo you drooled over) cherry and I have yet to find one as delectable as that one since.
Todd’s Dirt – I first tasted Todd’s Dirt at a Beer, Bourbon and BBQ festival. I use their Low Down Dirt in just about all of my savory dishes and it contains NO SALT! Try the Bayou and Crabby Dirt too.
Barnie’s Coffee & Tea – All I’m going to say is Santa’s White Christmas medium roast coffee. You can buy beans or single serve pods. Go do it now!
Omaha Steaks – One Christmas we had ribs and crab cakes for dinner from these guys because we were so over turkey. Fill your own holiday table or make a gift out of their selection of food, wine, and kitchen prep goods.
Dean & Deluca – Everything from candy to charcuterie can be ordered from this mail order food legend. The cigare rolled butter cookies are to die for!
The Loveless Cafe – These people will send you bacon samplers, biscuit mix, and blackberry preserves in the mail. Have your loved one ring in the new year with diabetes and high blood pressure. And I really hope I am one of your loved ones.
Insomnia Cookies – Buy these late night treats anytime from their website. They even have vegan and gluten free options.
Happy holidays and happy eating to you all…
Maria Pinkelton 