Who better to find the best gifts for foodies in 2024 than a trio of cult chefs and bakers, you ask? Rather than aimlessly scrolling through social media for inspiration or panicking every Christmas, birthday or big event, there’s a lot to be learned from their (admittedly subjective) answers. “I was once given a white truffle in a gorgeous little box. “This is a very elegant gift,” recalls the owner of Violet Cakes. Claire Ptak“You won’t buy it for yourself and you’ll have an excuse to eat pasta with butter and white truffle for days.” In other words: one great ingredient makes for a genius food gift idea.

“My friend Anna once gifted me Andaliman peppers, indigenous to the North Sumatran Batak tribe, which was incredibly thoughtful because they are so rare in Europe,” says the Spoons supper club founder. Rachel Stephanie. Frankly, thought is as important as effort. “I’m also a sucker for a nice bottle of wine with a story behind it or a wine gift certificate that I can choose myself!” Repurposing gift certificates as an option for food lovers rather than laziness and last minute is much appreciated. “Naomi Campbell brought me Rwandan chili oil and hot sauce from the President” Ghetto Gastro co-founder Jon Gray explains. “He told me he was leaving, so I told him my favorite chili oil was there, so he came back with his presidential stash.” How flexible, but the real takeaway was that the supermodel listened to exactly what she wanted and delivered. It can be helpful to jot down ideas throughout the year as the conversation provides inspiration. Below, three experts share their inspiring 2024 gourmet gift arrangements.

Rahel Stephanie: Indonesian chef, founder of Spoons supper club and Pedas magazine creator

“I love introducing people to lesser-known ingredients, especially ingredients from marginal cuisines that aren’t easily available on the high street. Products from an independent POC seller are always a winner, and homemade and small batch products are really popular. Consider dietary preferences and make sure the gift suits the person. Don’t give something that spoils quickly if it won’t be enjoyed right away. I like to use reusable glass jars with handwritten labels. A tin for baked goods, a basket, or a simple paper box tied with ribbon keeps items functional and stylish. My Pandan Berry Blondies are my favorite gift and they never fail to please!

From drinks perfect for a dinner party and a richer alternative to morning coffee to fragrant spices food lovers will love trying, discover Rahel Stephanie’s curation of food gifts below.

Jon Gray: Co-founder and CEO of Bronx-born culinary collective Ghetto Gastro

“Usually when I gift food, I bless my people with Ghetto Gastro Products from the trunk. What’s trending right now? Taste and function. Rare snacks from abroad. Limited editions. Flavors from Africa, Asia, Central and South America. Real food without crappy ingredients and artificial dyes. Be sure to be aware of any allergies or aversions when you bless people with edible gifts. When it comes to gift wrapping, the Japanese have nailed it. You can’t go wrong with a nice gift bag with luxury papers inside or something that can have a second life, like a nice tote bag. All my gifts were successful. I recently blessed a dear friend with some pine balsamic vinegar from Casa Maria Luigi in Modena.

Jon Gray’s edit of food gifts below reveals that he is a foodie and innovator, aiming to bring joy and empower his fellow chefs with the best ingredients and equipment.

Photographer: Jon Gorrigan

Claire Ptak: Baker, owner of California-style bakery Violet Cakes, and food writer

“I love bringing treats back when I travel. Beyond that, I love preserves: fish, chocolate, marzipan, golden syrup. We sell more matcha blondies and California sprinkle cookies than we can keep on the shelves. I guess people think the world is pretty heavy, so maybe the rainbow sprinkles cheer them up. Also, green tea feels a little healthier, even though it’s a cake. If you are going to meet them, never bring flowers, wine or large gifts of food because you will have to carry these with you. Choose something that has meaning or tells a story. Satin ribbon makes everything stand out. I am known for gifting birthday and wedding cakes. “When I make these myself, it’s very personal and it’s a great feeling to be a part of the celebration.”

Claire Ptak gives food lovers the best cupcakes and other thoughtful gifts in their lives, according to the food gifts edit below.

More gifts for food lovers