The Travail Holiday Shopping Guide: A Culinary Gift Extravaganza
With the holiday season fast approaching, you may be wondering what is the perfect gift for a host of a party, the culinary enthusiast or dedicated cook in your life. While the internet is inundated with top culinary recommendations looking to sell you the next doodad and kitchen gadget, we've got something unique to offer—insights from three seasoned professionals at Travail Kitchen & Amusements. Mike, Bob, and James are ready to share their favorite tools, the best gifts they've received, and what they love to gift.
from mike brown:
Cookbooks are always great gifts.
Hand-written recipes are the best.
Beef Wellington – A true labor of love (It’s already like a present underneath those layers)
Vitamix Blender – Who doesn’t want the Cadillac of blenders?!
"Here’s the Deal" spice mixes - Tom is a former Travail employee and we’re big fans.
Pastries from Dahlia or a gift card to buy them - Three of our former employees started their own business and are crushing it. We knew they were the best when they were on staff, but now everyone else knows.
Antique cast-iron flop griddle - I’m on the hunt for one!
Stainless egg poacher pan.
A Chicago Cutlery knife set - A forever gift. They are made with great quality steel and you can always re-sand the handles, if needed. I think James’ mom still has an original.
FRom Bob gerken:
9-10” Masahiro knife – The most important thing you can do is to learn how to sharpen it and please don’t get one of those plastic sharpeners.
Stone for sharpening – A vital tool. Hone the knife daily and use the stone to sharpen it and reset the blade. Keep it out of the sink. Wash it and put it back.
Bob Kramer knife made from high carbon steel. (If anyone wants to get me an original one, by all means!)
Wustaff with laser etching – A splurge item.
Plastic bowl scraper – Also a vital tool. Seems silly, but used by our staff and at my home.
Vintage silver-plated tongs – Great old serving ware, they don’t make them like they used to.
from James winberg:
Anything from Japanese Knife Imports - I’ve purchased many knives over the years and the nicest have come from here.
Dinner at Cote in NYC.
Zwilling Madura Plus non-stick fry pan - it’s the best one for home use.
NoTrax anti-microbial cutting board - the only cutting board you’ll ever need.
Cookbooks – We have quite a collection going. I love getting a new cookbook that someone thinks would be interesting to me.
“We’ve gifted a few things over the years to my in-laws, because I cook a lot there and I like to know what I’m working with. They have some nice non-sticks and a great Staub cast-iron dutch oven. Everyone wins. Honestly, the best part of the holidays is sharing a great meal. Some people say that a chef’s favorite meal is the one they don’t have to cook. That’s partially true, but it’s also nice to make a meal for your loved ones (and know that you’re going to like it).”
gift cards, always a tasty idea:
In addition to these expert recommendations, if you're still undecided, consider gift cards from any of our three concepts (Travail Kitchen, Nouvelle Kitchen & Brewery, and Dream Creamery). The joy of sharing a great meal during the holidays is unparalleled, and a chef's favorite meal, after all, is the one they get to share with loved ones.
Happy holidays and happy gifting!
Happy holidays from James Winberg, Mike Brown, and Bob Gerkin