Gift Picks for the Serious Foodie, from Jewels of New York
Diana Yen’s runs a multidisciplinary creative studio called Jewels of New York, writes a column for Epicurious, released her first cookbook, A Simple Feast (which she wrote, styled, AND photographed herself) last spring, and, perhaps most importantly, shuttles her famous fluffy bunny Cleo around town to photo shoots for everyone from Cherry Bombe, Moda Operandi, and Opening Ceremony. Phew Here, this ultra-chic food lady about town shares her holiday gift ideas with Yahoo Food.
Photo: Britta Walsworth
What are your top 5 food-related gift ideas for the holidays?
1. Misono chef’s Knives are my favorite affordable Japanese knives; we use them in my studio every day. Made of high-quality carbon steel, they are super durable. Photo: JB Prince
2. Winter is the best time for slow cooking stews, braises and soups. Staub’s Cocotte cast iron pot is a favorite in my kitchen and the graphite color is beautiful enough to go from stovetop to tabletop. Photo: Williams Sonoma
3. These cutting boards are perfect for everyday kitchen prep but can also double as a fruit and cheese platter for serving dinner guests. Photo: Canvas Home
4. A fancy bottle opener is the perfect versatile gift—everyone can use a little bling when popping open bottles. Photo: Tortoise General Store
5. I love the elegant look of this wooden walnut rolling pin. It would look beautiful displayed in the kitchen when not in use. Photo: Food52
What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
Homemade cookies. They’re a classic, but anything handmade by someone you love is always going to taste the best. I personally love gifting modern art deco cookies as a fun twist to holiday cookies.
Photo: Diana Yen
What’s the best gift you’ve ever given?
A gift certificate to Korin, the best knife store in New York City. You can customize your knives and a Japanese knife master will even show you how to sharpen them.
Photo: Korin
What are your plans for the holidays?
I’m going to Los Angeles and eating loads of chia seeds, drinking juice, and doing yoga daily. It’s my time to detox and take care of my body. By the time I get back to New York, I’m refreshed and energized.
Photo: Diana Yen
What will be on your holiday dinner table this year?
My family loves seafood, so I’ll steer away from the traditional and cook a lighter, ocean-inspired menu.
Cleo the bunny fishing. Photo: jewelsofny
What’s a great last-minute gift?
A nice bottle of olive oil. Everyone uses olive oil, and a good one can elevate their everyday meals.
Photo: Amazon
More holiday gifts worth giving:
10 food gifts that your teen actually wants
