37 Most Creative Gifts for Chefs Who Have Everything in 2024

While the humble home cook might thrive with just a few core items, the true culinary master knows that gifts for chefs are an exciting opportunity to grow their collection. Even the most niche items that only have a few specific uses in the kitchen are sometimes more special than everyday items.

Whether you’re shopping for your friend who has their own restaurant or simply a passionate home creator, these gifts for chefs will be both impressive and well-received. 

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• Unique Gifts for Chefs
• Luxury Gifts for Chefs
• Gifts for Male Chefs
• Gifts for Female Chefs
• Gifts for Chefs Who Have Everything

Unique Gifts for Chefs

When it comes to shopping for gifts for chefs who actually work in a restaurant, there are a number of items that come down to personal preference. For someone who isn’t interested in cooking, it might seem like all knives are the same and would be a great gift for a chef friend, but the true chef will be picky about the weight, length and type of blade.

Instead, you might opt for something that functions more towards serving than preparing items, or a unique culinary item from abroad. The same things that excite a chef, like good quality salt or olive oil, might seem boring to you. Giving a great gift is all about considering the recipient and being thoughtful; it's not about spending a lot of money, according to Vox. 

1. Whetstone or Sharpening Stone

Although those automatic knife sharpeners are easier, most true chefs prefer to use a whetstone to sharpen their knives. After a few years of use, most whetstones need replacing, so this makes one of the most unique gifts for chefs that’s also incredibly useful. There are different grits on each whetstone, and most chefs have use for at least two double-sided whetstones to get their blade ultra-sharp. These gifts for chefs come in both affordable and luxury options depending on your budget. 

2. Jennifer Fisher Finishing Salt

To the average person, salt might sound like a pretty lame gift, but for a friend who has sensitive tastebuds and a flare for good flavors, these are great gifts for chefs. Jennifer Fisher is just one of many luxury brands offering premium salt mixes like spicy salt or curry salt. You can even purchase little travel-sized packets so your friend never has to endure under-seasoned food ever again. 

3. Epicurean Cutting Boards

Another thing that separates the chef’s mind from everyone else is knowing and caring about the difference in cutting boards. Most home chefs will buy thin, flimsy plastic cutting boards that leave tiny pieces of microplastic in every bite, or nice-looking wood boards that, while elegant, are a breeding ground for bacteria and should never be used to slice meat. Epicurean cutting boards are the gold standard in the culinary world, fusing style with functionality. Their surface cleans well and they are ultra-durable. A set of three will set your chef friend up for years to come. 

4. Hydroponic Garden 

Pretty much all chefs would agree that fresh, in-season herbs and produce add exceptional flavor to any dish. Give the gift of garden-fresh flavors anytime with a hydroponic garden setup. These unique gifts for chefs don’t require much of a green thumb and allows them to have their garden anywhere, even in the heart of the city. Different sizes and heights are available depending on your budget and how much they want to grow. 

5. Classpop! Gift Card

Sometimes the best gifts for chefs include the freedom to pick their own gift. If you’re having a hard time deciding on an item or you don’t know what their kitchen toolkit is missing, a Classpop! gift card is the perfect thing. They can choose between a variety of other creative experiences, either food-based or even non-food-based like pottery (to make new bowls), photography (for their social posts) or paint and sip (just for fun).  

6. Ramen Bowls

Not an essential, but still a nice gesture, a handmade set of ramen bowls are unique gifts for chefs. These bowls are set a bit deeper than a regular bowl and sometimes feature notches or holes for chopsticks. Some even come with that special wooden spoon that’s longer than it is deep.

7. Himalayan Salt Block

This is definitely one of the more unique gifts for chefs that they probably wouldn’t buy themselves but will cherish for years. A giant slab of Himalayan salt is more versatile than you might think. You can grill directly on it to add flavor to burgers, steaks or seafood but it also doubles as a nice serving platter that can help to keep your food warm or chilled. With proper care, it lasts years.

8. Masienda Tortilla Press

A true chef prefers to do things the old-fashioned way, even making their own tortillas. If you’ve never tried it, it’s surprisingly easy, especially with the help of these unique gifts for chefs: a Masienda tortilla press. Masa powder and a little water are flattened and then grilled for the best tortillas they've ever had. They'll never go back to store-bought.

9. A Beautiful Glass Cake Stand

While a nice glass cake stand might be a popular item on a wedding registry, they're great gifts for chefs as well. Take their personal style into account when you’re selecting between dainty soft-pink depression glass or a colorful clay creation. Cake stands are practical for cakes (obviously) but they’re a nice way to present other handmade goods whether baked goods, a side dish or a fancy gravy saucer on your tabletop. 

Luxury Gifts for Chefs

10. Craftmade Apron

To the average person, an apron may be the exact opposite of what they hope to receive as a birthday or other celebratory token. But for a chef, aprons are an essential part of their uniform, even when cooking at home. Craftmade Aprons are fairly affordable luxury gifts for chefs that they will get great use out of. You can never have too many!

11. Immersion Blender

There are a few kitchen tools that most serious chefs would say are must-haves, and among them is the immersion blender. Luxury to be sure, these gifts for chefs are perfect for the newly interested home cook. It makes creating velvety smooth soups and sauces a breeze with very minimal cleanup. There are plenty of other uses, too, like creating the dreamiest, creamiest whipped potatoes.

12. Really Nice Olive Oil

The average palate probably couldn’t tell the difference between olive oil, canola oil and grapeseed oil, but a real chef can taste the difference between a cooking olive oil and a finishing olive oil. Consult with the experts on these luxury gifts for chefs to ensure you’re gifting a high-quality finishing oil. Brightland is always popular, but Kosterina or Graza are always well-received. 

13. Stand Mixer

For many years, KitchenAid was the gold standard mixer and the perfect luxury gifts for chefs. They still make good quality products, including their beautiful new Design Series mixer that features a dark walnut bowl that fits into a deep forest green stand. But truth be told, most chefs that have some professional experience prefer other brands, like Bosch or Nutrimill. Still, there’s nothing wrong with the cult-classic KitchenAid, plus it comes in so many fun colors.  

14. Ooni Pizza Oven

Short of building an actual Neapolitan pizza oven in their backyard, you can give the gift of exceptional pizzas with an Ooni pizza oven. These luxury gifts for chefs (or non-chefs) make pizza night so much fun. Ever wondered what are the best Mother’s Day gifts for chefs? A pizza oven isn't just fun for mom, it's a great activity for the whole family. It works for Father’s Day gifts too!

15. Zeppoli Classic Kitchen Towels

What does a chef always need? More towels. It might seem strange to find kitchen towels on the list of luxury gifts for chefs, but this item will be warmly received. These high-end towels aren’t for wiping dirty counters or dishes with, but a chef will have plenty of use for a nice thick set of cotton towels. You can never have too many! This particular set of 15 is exceptionally durable and won’t leave lint or scratches. 

16. Riedel Glassware

If you have a sophisticated palate for food, it’s probably safe to assume you appreciate a good glass of wine as well. These luxury gifts for chefs are just as important as that spendy bottle of red they just popped open: a set of glassware that will last a lifetime (if treated with care). Riedel makes high-quality coupes, bubbles and many other shapes for their wine of choice.

17. Mauviel Copper Cookware

Don’t be shocked when you find out how expensive these copper pots and pans are, they’re French-made after all! These luxury gifts for chefs will be well-appreciated, whether you gift them the whole set or just a single pan. Though the upfront price is steep, these pots and pans are built to last. 

18. Breville Joule Sous Vide Machine

The sous vide method of cooking became hugely popular when people realized you can get tender meat that’s almost impossible to overcook. Breville sous vide machines make great luxury gifts for chefs that they can play around with, cooking anything from tougher cuts of meat to tender filets, fish, veggies or even eggs. 

Gifts for Male Chefs

19. Vacuum Sealer

Make leftovers last for a delightfully long time with these useful gifts for male chefs. A vacuum sealer is the neatest, most air-tight way to preserve food, extending their life in the fridge or freezer.  

20. A High-Quality Knife Roll

To be fair, these gifts for chefs works for men or women, but it’s definitely a staple. Nothing makes a home chef feel more official than having their own knife roll, and it’s certainly essential for any professional chef. Look at Wusthof, Williams Sonoma or even Etsy for something sturdy and well-made that fits their style. 

21. Breville Smoking Gun

Ah yes, the masculine urge to smoke everything. You can’t smoke a brisket with this special gift for male chefs, but it sure does elevate a cold whiskey cocktail! Breville makes a neat and compact smoking gun that you can fill with a wood chip of your choice to add hints of Applewood or Hickory to any dish with ease. 

22. Le Creuset Enamelled Cast Iron Grill Pan

Although a regular dutch oven from Le Creuset could just as easily be a gift for male chefs, this grill pan is a fantastic option as well. Whether he lives in the city and doesn’t have access to a grill or he simply appreciates the ease of use, this grill pan is ideal. Leave grill marks on anything from burgers to vegetables without the hassle of using a whole grill. 

23. Made In Carbon Steel Half-Griddle + Press

Even for something as simple and delicious as a smash burger or hashbrowns, having a particular piece fo equipment can make the job infinitely easier. These gifts for chefs provide everything he needs to flatten and press meat, veggies or whatever his heart desires into a thin layer for extra crispiness. Even if he really only uses the grill or griddle, this is a perfect gift for men. 

24. Jamon Iberico

You must really like the person that you order a whole ham hock for, especially this acorn-fed Jamon Iberico. Considered a delicacy, a true chef’s palate can immediately taste the difference between prosciutto, serrano ham and true jamon Iberico. This exceptional cured meat can be enjoyed solo, or in a variety of savory appetizers just like the Spanish do. 

Gifts for Female Chefs 

25. Recipe Binder From Rifle Paper Co.

For the friend who loves to create recipes but never remembers to write them down, this beautiful recipe binder from Rifle Paper Co. is one of the most practical gifts for chefs. Whether she prefers a sweet red and white gingham with cherries or a delicate floral pattern, this beautiful binder is the best way to organize hand-written recipes. 

26. Zwilling Enfinigy Milk Frother

Transform her morning coffee into a chef-approved experience with one of the most wonderful gifts for chefs. The Zwilling milk frother effortlessly creates thick, pillowy clouds of milk, mixing it with vanilla bean paste or a drizzle of honey. There are other uses for it too that save you the hassle and clean up of a whole mixer. This is a great gift for women, even those who don’t love to cook.  

27. The Latest Le Creuset

Their colorful enameled dutch ovens are one of the most recognizable and iconic kitchen items, and they're always coming out with new colors and festive holiday collections. A new Le Creuset is the perfect gift for female chefs, whether an adorable pumpkin-shaped dutch oven for Fall or a classic oval-shaped dutch oven that’s just as functional as it is beautiful on her cooktop. This also will last a lifetime if properly cared for. 

28. Ceramic Nesting Measuring Cups

While a professional would use a digital scale, that doesn’t make measuring cups obsolete. A beautiful ceramic set of measuring cups that nest together is a wonderful gift for female chefs to add some femininity and color to her kitchenware. 

29. Jean Dubost Rainbow Steak Knives

Just as the right equipment is essential for preparing a dish, it’s equally important for enjoying it. These special rainbow steak knives by Jean Dubost come from France and they are super practical gifts for chefs. A set of six features one of each fruit-inspired shade. 

30. Fashionable Clogs

Everyone in the service industry, and even the dedicated home chef, knows you can spend a lot of time on your feet for the sake of a great meal. Gift her a pair of stylish clogs, like Dansko or BJORK brands that will have her feeling like she’s walking on clouds. This is one of the most practical gifts for chefs everywhere. 

Gifts for Chefs Who Have Everything

31. Artsy Handmade Olive Dish

This may sound niche, but that makes it the perfect gift for chefs who have everything. A hand-crafted olive dish is the hosting tool they didn’t know they needed. Check out Etsy or your local craft fair for a beautiful piece of handmade pottery that will level up your happy hours. Something thoughtful like this can make a great last-minute Christmas gift idea, even for someone who doesn’t love to cook because it’s a unique piece that will stir up conversation at parties. 

32. KitchenAid Attachments

Most serious chefs will already have a stand mixer, but did you know there are bonus attachments for your KitchenAid mixer? It can already make doughs, batters, creams, pastes and more, but with some of these after-market tools, your mixer can become a meat grinder or a pasta maker, too! 

33. Alessi Apostrophe Orange Peeler

While this is one of the most unique gifts for chefs, it's by no means a necessity. This could be a fun addition to their kitchen toolkit that they likely wouldn’t buy for themselves. At $40, the Alessi orange peeler border at overpriced, but it lands right at the luxurious mark. The special weight and shape make it perfectly designed for piercing through the orange’s peel without getting gunk all under your finger nails.

34. A Cheese Grotto

This uber-niche item is as much a functional storage solution as it will be a topic of conversation. Cheese grottos are the perfect gifts for chefs who have everything, because seriously, who already owns a cheese grotto? Similar to a humidor for a cigar, the cheese grotto helps to maintain the ideal conditions for storing cheeses. It’s not for your average slices of American cheese, but as any cheese connoisseur knows, good cheese can be spendy, so you’ll want to make it last!

35. Giant Salad Bowl

This special gift for the chef who has everything might not sound exciting, but it’s actually a beautiful and unique piece that they will get lots of use out of. It’s worth the splurge to get a good-quality wooden bowl as it's used first and foremost as a serving piece. At 20” (or more) across, it’s made for serving a crowd. Even if you don’t plan to fill the bowl with salad, this extra large salad bowl elevates the “tableside tossed” experience for guests, too. 

36. Molcajete

Even if you don’t recognize the word, chances are you’ve laid eyes on a molcajete before. This mortar and pestle-adjacent piece are great gifts for chefs who have everything. Level up anything by hand-grinding spices for maximum flavor or achieving that perfect smooth guacamole. 

37. A Sweet Honey Pot

Sure, they can just spoon honey out of the jar like everyone else, but having a cute ceramic handmade honey pot is another way to showcase their style in the kitchen. This lovely gift for the chef who has everything is a great way to support local artists, and it can be used over and over and over again. 

Sometimes just looking at all the cool kitchen gadgets or beautiful serving platters and bowls makes you want to learn to cook. Cooking is not only a creative expression but a display of love and affection for many, even those that do it professionally. You can find tremendous joy and a sense of accomplishment in learning a new skill or hobby, and there’s always some new fancy dish that will challenge you to level-up your craft. For the host or hostess with the most(ess), these cooking gifts will spark joy and leave them inspired to get cooking!

For even more fun gift ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!