In a world where the easy answer to the holiday gift exchange often begins and ends with a humble gift card, we believe that there’s a whole universe of imaginative and meaningful presents waiting to be explored. For the passionate and dedicated restaurateurs in our lives, we’re here to serve up a plate of inspiration that goes far beyond the typical plastic rectangle.
While a gift card might bring a momentary smile, the restaurateurs we know deserve something that truly reflects their love for the culinary world and their tireless commitment to the art of dining. So, let’s embark on a delectable journey of our Top 10 unique and thoughtful gift ideas that will have the foodies and foodpreneurs in your life savoring every moment.
10. Go Cry in the Walk-In T-Shirt
A t-shirt that proudly bears the message “Go Cry in the Walk-In” is a badge of honor for any dedicated restaurateur. In the midst of the bustling kitchen chaos and the high-pressure world of restaurant life, a touch of humor can be the ultimate stress-reliever.
This shirt is a fun and affectionate nod to the blood, sweat, and tears that go into creating culinary masterpieces, making it the perfect gift for someone who truly understands the unique challenges and joys of the restaurant world.
9. Giant Tortilla Throw Blanket
Ever wonder what it’s like to be wrapped up like a giant burrito? Now you can experience the warm and comforting burrito roll with a giant tortilla throw blanket. This stylish and innovative tortilla swaddle blanket is made from high quality flannel fabric and can be used as a bed blanket, travel blanket, picnic mat or many other functions as wide as your imagination.
These fun blankets are also available as a chocolate chip cookie, waffle, or pepperoni pizza.
8. You F*cking Donkey: The Unofficial Gordon Ramsay Swear Word and Insult Coloring Book
This gift might land you in the Human Resources office if you give it to the wrong boss, but if they’re a fan of Chef Gordon Ramsay, you’ve got to admit it’s funny.
This adult coloring book contains over 45 iconic Gordon quotes on unique coloring patterns. We assume that coloring this book will be relaxing, although it might trigger some high-intensity kitchen stress!
7. Six Piece Chef’s Masterpiece Knives
This amazing knife set features exquisite images of famous paintings on each blade, from Van Gogh’s Starry Night to Monet’s Clifftop Walk at Pourville. You’ll feel like you’re exploring the world of art as you chop, slice and dice with these stunning knives.
It’s a set of knives that inspire joy every time you use them. You’ll love looking at the amazing images of famous paintings on each blade, and you’ll love how they perform in your hands.
6. Travel-Friendly Leather Knife Roll
Looking for a gift for your favorite chef? This leather knife roll is a classy and thoughtful gift for culinary students, aspiring chefs and professionals. Stitched by world-class craftsmen, the Aaron Leather Knife Roll is handcrafted with premium quality Buff Calf Leather. There are 2 classy vintage buckles that form a tight roll, with stretchable knife pockets and 1 durable zipper pouch to keep the knives secure on the go.
5. 4-Probe Premium WiFi Smart Meat Thermometer
Technology gadgets are always great gifts, and with these Bluetooth meat thermometer probes, you can keep tabs on your food from up to 165 feet away. Each probe features dual temperature sensors, allowing you to monitor both the internal meat temperature and the ambient/external temperature simultaneously.
And if you prefer to cook without your smart phone, the Stand-Alone Mode has got you covered.
4. Coffee Cookbook: Over 200 Delicious Coffee-Based Recipes
With over 200 recipes, Coffee Cookbook is the perfect way to expand your culinary horizons, while also showing off your appreciation for the world’s most popular drink. It’s full of delicious recipes for cold and hot drinks, cocktails, Ice-creams, and dessert-like treats—all made with coffee!
An excellent gift for any coffee fan, and we all know that if you work in the restaurant industry it’s highly likely that you consume mass quantities of coffee! 😊
3. Vapour Blaster Cocktail Bubble Smoke Gun
This is so cool to look at! The cocktail smoke bubble gun creates food-grade bubbles with flavored smoke inside. This creates an eye-popping ‘WOW’ moment in your drink presentation. Works well with a wide variety of drinks like cocktails, bourbon, whiskey, champagne, and more.
Don’t pop our bubble, because we believe this makes a beautiful and thoughtful gift.
2. Commercial Ice Maker Machine
Looking for something a bit larger? Perhaps a group gift from the entire staff? Think about what would make your life easier at work and give your restaurant owner a piece of professional equipment! Perhaps a new ice machine? This Cotlin Ice Maker produces 300 pounds of ice every 24 hours. It creates clear full-cube ice, perfect for bars, hotels and restaurants.
Tell your boss to “Chill Out” with a new commercial ice maker!
1. Roll & Score “Skee-Ball” Style Arcade Game
Even restauranteurs need to get their mind off of the business every now and then, so perhaps the ultimate gift is a throw-back to the hours spent at the local arcade.
This classic version of a ‘Skee-Ball’ type machine will provide hours of fun and relaxation. It has an electronic scorer, built-in LED lights and fun arcade sounds. After each roll, the automatic ball return sends that balls back for another throw!
While these may not be the perfect options for your gift exchange needs, we’ll leave you with one piece of advice… Shop early! Don’t wait until the night before the party to pick up a gift. If you do, you’ll be joining the crowd at the gift card mall inside your local grocery store, choosing yet another forgetful gift. Think ahead. Shop ahead. Give something unique and creative this year! 🤶🎅
