The 40 Best Host Gifts for Guests Who Never Show up Empty-Handed

Solo Stove Cinder Tabletop Bowl

$55 at Amazon $40 at Walmart View on Solostove.com

Bring warmth to the table with the Solo Cinder Tabletop Bowl, which is perfect for backyard and patio settings. Inspired by the popular Solo Stove Fire Pits, the Cinder is more compact, perfect for terraces, balconies, and patios. The bowl uses canisters of smokeless gel fuel, which offers three hours of light time and is easily lit with a match. "It’s nice to be able to gather around an open flame — even on [my] little patio, which is too small for a larger fire pit," says Taysha Murtaugh, vice president.

Material The Open Bowl

View on Materialkitchen.com

“This large, shallow dinner bowl (basically a blate) is my go-to when company comes over. I use mine as a serving bowl for salads and saucy entrees for two, though you can buy four or more and get $20 off. Made by ceramicists from Korean clay, it has an elegant but unfussy design that shows off your food. And what host doesn't want that?” - Mary Lagroue, Editor

Via Carota Cocktail Bundle

View on Drinkviacarota.com

"Instead of the customary bottle of wine, why not bring one or two of these bottled craft cocktails? Sure, you could easily bring all the ingredients for a Negroni or Old Fashioned, but these beautifully packaged offerings from Via Carota, the iconic Italian restaurant in New York City, are sure to win you some points. I received a sample to taste, and needless to say, I am sold. Each one makes four drinks, so it's worth upgrading to the bundle of three to keep the drinks flowing." - Taysha Murtaugh, Vice President.

Williams Sonoma Personalized Bottle

View on Williams Sonoma

Make the gift of wine even better with a personalized bottle from Williams-Sonoma. A personalized wine bottle is a unique and thoughtful gift for any wine lover. You can choose from various high-quality wines, such as Dom Perignon Brut and even non-alcoholic options, then have the bottle etched and hand-painted with a custom message. It's also a great way to commemorate a special occasion, such as a wedding, anniversary, or birthday.

Anthropologie Waffle Dishcloths

$18 at Anthropologie

You can never have enough dish towels, whether they are wiping down a counter or used as a pot holder. This set of Market Waffle dishcloths was a favorite gift received by our associate editorial director, Dana Fouchia. "They're durable, easy to wash, and look slightly better than the other old rags I have in my towel drawer." Because they have a waffle weave, they will get more traction on whatever you hold and are very absorbent. Choose from three colorways with a variety of muted yet rich tones that will suit any cook.

Made In Porcelain Baking Slab

$109 at Amazon View on Madeincookware.com

Designed with Chef Nancy Silverton and crafted from pure French porcelain, the Made In Porcelain Baking Slab is the first of its kind. This naturally non-stick baking slab is perfect for baking everything from cookies and cakes to pizza and bread. The Baking Slab is also thermal-shock resistant, so you can take it straight from the freezer to the oven or pop it in the dishwasher without worrying about cracking.

KHEM Studios Whale Bone Serving Board

$85 at Food52

“If there's one thing any proper party host must have, it's a gorgeous charcuterie spread. This rustic wood serving board is regionally sourced from the Hudson Valley and comes in two sizes and finishes (either walnut or maple). I love that this serving platter does double duty as a cutting board, plus it has a very practical helper handle with a leash for easy storage. Whether your host is serving cheese, Castelvetranos, flatbreads, or charcuterie, this board will win major points for presentation.” - Danielle St. Pierre, Senior Editor

La Maison du Chocolat Coffret Maison Dark Chocolate 24-Piece Box

$80 at Amazon View on Lamaisonduchocolat.us

Fancy chocolates taste better when gifted than purchased for oneself. La Maison du Chocolat specializes in truffle gift boxes decked out with ganaches, a rich and velvety mixture of cream and chocolate, and pralines, a crunchy combination of nuts and caramelized sugar. You can even choose between milk and dark chocolate if you have cacao preferences. We like this small box, which has an assortment of both and some of the French brand’s best-selling truffles. 

Le Creuset Pie Bird

$16 at Amazon View on Le Creuset

If you have a baker in your life and they have a touch of whimsy, this Le Creuset Pie Bird is a must. The ceramic bird acts as a vent for the steam created during baking. By redirecting the steam, the crust stays crisp and doesn’t get soggy. Made from Le Creuset's signature stoneware and available in the brand's deeply saturated color choices, this pie bird is as beautiful as it is useful — even non-bakers will be inspired to try their hand at a pie or two with this on their shelf.

Verloop Dashes Coaster Set

View on Verloopknits.com

Family-owned Verloop helps salvage brightly dyed, dumpster-bound yarn from the textile industry by weaving patterned coasters. Your host can immediately take them out for the party, let them absorb excess condensation from cocktail glasses all night long, and then toss them in the washing machine at the end of the night for easy cleanup. They're the perfect accent for the host who always has a great set of funky and colorful glassware or the ultimate statement throw pillows and tablecloths.

Williams Sonoma Marble & Brass Wine Chiller

$70 at Williams Sonoma

Everyone thinks of bringing wine to a dinner party or holiday meal, but sometimes, the host doesn't have the time or fridge space to chill it. Showcase a bottle without adding something else to the host's list with the Williams-Sonoma Marble and Brass Wine Chiller. This stylish wine chiller is handcrafted by master stonemasons, featuring a rich white marble and polished brass contrast. It holds a standard 750ml bottle and is the perfect way to keep your wine chilled at the table. It's also a beautiful addition to your bar cart or kitchen counter.

Jonathan Adler Atlas Salt and Pepper Shakers

$65 at Amazon View on Jonathanadler.com

Jonathan Adler has a treasure trove of salt and pepper shakers, which we love for gifting. They come in everything from bulldogs to spaceships to these profile Atlas shakers. We love this design because the colors are neutral; they won't clash with any other decor, but the shape is unique — a total conversation starter. Your host will think of you every time they season their food and every time they receive a compliment on their memorable salt and pepper shakers.

Libbey 3055 Perception Cocktail Coupe

$60 $30 at Amazon $60 at Wayfair

"The old-timey coupe glass is really an excellent all-purpose party drink holder: You can use it for stirred martinis, shaken whiskey sours, Champagne, and even as a fancy water glass. Libbey's glassware is all inexpensive and durable, and its large-size Perception coupe is elegant yet simple enough to fit in with almost any kind of decor. A dozen is enough to cover most casual gatherings, and you can get them for about five bucks each.” - Jason Horn, senior updates writer

Flamingo Estate Roma Heirloom Tomato Candle

$58 at Shopterrain.com View on Flamingoestate.com

“You can't go wrong with a candle, but if food is on the table (literally), I prefer one that's less perfumey. A tomato-scented candle struck me as strange at first, but this one captures the fresh and subtly spiced scent of a ripe, juicy tomato in a way that feels warm, summery, and nostalgic. Also available in Climbing Tuscan Rosemary and Adriatic Muscatel Sage, these candles from Los Angeles-based Flamingo Estate will not disappoint — nor will they compete with whatever's on the menu.” - Taysha Murtaugh, Vice President

Anthropologie Cottage Egg Crate

$14 at Anthropologie

Have that friend who is obsessed with retro-meets-farmhouse design? Or maybe your host has backyard chickens and copious eggs? This stoneware egg crate is a pretty resting place for any eggs — home-grown or store-bought. Available in three neutral hues, the glaze on this ceramic egg holder lets the flecked color of the clay beneath shine through for that put-together yet rustic feel. It’s also dishwasher safe if you accidentally crack an egg inside. 

Revol Porcelain France Shatterproof Cake Cloche

$85 at Food52

We’ve taken to storing everything from bagels to assorted baked goods we grab from bakeries under a cloche. Even if the goodies are store-bought, something about this shatterproof glass cloche makes it feel special. The cloche comes in various sizes, large enough to cover even the tallest cakes. It's a beautiful countertop or buffet centerpiece for entertainers who like classic pieces.  

Zwilling Enfinigy Electric Wine Opener

$70 at Amazon $70 at Wayfair View on Zwilling.com

A wine key gets the job done, but electric bottle openers are much more convenient and reliable. We like how versatile this black and silver metal design is for any household. It has a built-in foil cutter and no bulky extra charging port; it is also quiet and built well.

Le Creuset Stoneware Pitcher, 1.6 qt.

$50 at Amazon $50 at Nordstrom $50 at Wayfair

A good pitcher is always handy if you like to entertain, and the water seems so much more elegant when you pour it out of a pitcher like this stoneware version from Le Creuset. Like the rest of its stoneware products, this pitcher is made to last. The exterior is scratch-proof, and the tough stoneware resists rippling and cracking, so your host won't have to think twice about popping it in the dishwasher or bringing it out for more casual get-togethers.

French Home Laguiole Cake Serving Set

$52 $36 at Amazon $54 at Sur La Table View on Saksoff5th.com

It’s hard not to be impressed by this Laguiole cake set. The handles are made with beautiful ivory resin and decorated with the Laguiole bee. The stainless steel blades easily slice and serve the most delicate pies and cakes. The set comes nestled in a pine box with the Laguiole France emblem burned into the wood. It is a classy gift that anyone, regardless if they're an avid baker, will find useful. 

Apilco Porcelain Serving Platter

$35 at Amazon $100 at Williams Sonoma

A classic white platter does wonders for anyone’s entertaining collection, but plain platters can be a touch bland. Apilco adds a little flare with the octagonal platters, which come in two sizes. They are great individually or as a set. They also make an excellent wedding gift or serving platter for someone starting their collection because the classic white color is neutral enough to fit any decor theme, but the unique shape adds a flash of personality.

CB2 Dina Fluted Glass Vase

$15 at CB2

“Flowers are, of course, a classic hosting gift that will always show thoughtfulness. However, gifting them with an included vase takes it a step further. I love this fluted vase for this very occasion. At under $20, it won't be too much of an added expense to your bouquet, and the host will not have to stop what they're doing to cut stems or fidget to find the correct size vase of their own. Instead, it's ready to be placed on the tablescape or kitchen island alongside their appetizers and refreshments.” - Dana Fouchia, Associate Editorial Director.

W&P Peak Silicone Ice Molds

$18 at Amazon $18 at Sur La Table View on Wandp.com

“To make your at-home cocktails feel like a special occasion, grab W&P's ice molds. Made from silicone, the easy-to-fill trays make oversized cubes or spheres that melt slowly to prevent diluting the drink. The brand offers several molds with beautiful designs, including a speakeasy-inspired set that never fails to get compliments at my dinner parties.” - Katie Macdonald, editorial director

Hedley & Bennett Alton Brown Apron

View on Hedleyandbennett.com

Every cook needs a good apron, and Hedley & Bennet makes some of our favorite kitchen aprons. Made from 100% cotton twill fabric, these aprons are a step up from your basic white chef’s aprons, and the thick material means they will last forever. Hedley & Bennet is known for the multitude of colors and designs it features, and we love the collaboration with celebrity chef Alton Brown. The print is black on gray, so from afar, it looks relatively neutral, but up close, you can see the quirky detail and design any Alton Brown fan will appreciate.

Williams Sonoma Old Fashioned Cocktail Gift Crate

$100 at Williams Sonoma

This gift crate is centered around the classic Kentucky cocktail, the Old Fashioned. The set includes Woodford Reserve X Williams Sonoma Old-Fashioned Cocktail Mixer, Luxardo maraschino cherries, ice sphere molds, and two Crafthouse by Fortessa Double Old-Fashioned glasses. The treasure trove of cocktail accouterments is nestled into a reusable wooden crate — just add your host's favorite bourbon.

Vivocci Unbreakable Plastic Stemless Wine Glasses

$28 at Amazon

Unbreakable glassware is a game-changing invention. Whether because of klutzy guests or scattered hosts, this set of four is suitable for use inside and outdoors. You can use them as water glasses or even for kids. They’re attractive enough for cocktails or just for white and red wines as intended. Every time we give them to someone, they explain: “I’ve always wanted some of these!” We also love them for white elephant parties.

Spicewalla Taco Seasoning 3 Pack Collection

$22 at Amazon $20 at Walmart

Founder Meherwan Irwani knows flavor. Just visit any of his Chai Pani restaurants. His spice company, Spicewalla, showcases classic spices with quality sourcing and flavor. Any of his spices are great, but this new taco kit is a win if you don’t want those packaged seasoning kits. The set comes with seasoning for al pastor, pescado verde, and carne asada, making it easy to make taco night any night. Just add protein, tortillas, and your favorite salsa.

Barebones Living Walnut Garden Scissors

$35 at Amazon $32 at Food52

These walnut garden scissors are the perfect choice for a friend with a green thumb. They’re stout, and the oversized walnut handles of these old-fashioned scissors make it easy for any hand, be it left-handed or right-handed. They’re great for snipping herbs or tomato stems but also helpful in a utility drawer to cut kitchen twine or gift ribbon. 

Material Forever Peeler

$30 at Amazon View on Materialkitchen.com

This vegetable peeler is a must-have for any kitchen, and it comes in a nice box with an extra blade. It's made with solid metal construction and a sharp blade that makes peeling vegetables a breeze. The replaceable blade means you'll never have to rebuy a new peeler. The open body makes this peeler easy to clean, and its innovative shape provides a comfortable, secure grip. Plus, we discovered that it's virtually indestructible while testing the best peelers, so you can use it for years.

Zwilling 3-Piece Cheese Knife Set

$150 $42 at Amazon $90 at Nordstrom $40 at Wayfair

Stinky cheese can be sticky cheese, which means those wooden-handled cheese knives are not for us. We like a set like this three-piece Zwilling cheese knife set that can go straight from the charcuterie board to the dishwasher. The stainless steel construction means it is easy to clean but will also last a long time. We also like the oversized handle, which makes them easier to maneuver around the board.

Coop’s Original Hot Fudge

$17 at Amazon

What’s the best way to make anyone smile? Ice cream — an ice cream sundae, specifically. But since traveling to a party with ice cream is risky, consider bringing some artisan hot fudge instead. Coop’s original hot fudge, made from high-grade European chocolate, is rich, gooey, and perhaps the best dessert topping on the market. Who knows? Maybe, thanks to you, the host will end the night with an ice cream sundae bar. 

Mariage Freres Marco Polo Black Tea

$34 $30 at Amazon

You used only to be able to get Mariage Freres tea in their Paris shop a long time ago, but now they are global and on Amazon. The Marco Polo blend is a mysterious and smoky flavored tea that doesn’t taste like your average English breakfast, although their EB is also great. This package comes in individual cotton bags for easy use, but there are also more decorative black tins emblazoned with gold script if they prefer loose-leaf teas.

Voluspa Candles

View on Nordstrom View on Anthropologie View on Sephora

“I’m a big candle person, and I find the Voluspa ones to be special enough to give but not so hard to find that they can’t be a last-minute purchase before an event. The brand’s scents are rich and diverse enough to please most folks, plus the packaging makes them display-worthy in their own right. I know a lot of people, like myself, love to light a few candles before guests arrive, so my hope is that they’ll do the same with the one I gift (or enjoy it on their own time, too!). I love the Blond Tabac one for an all-year-round scent, but I’ll switch between the scents depending on the event.” - Kristin Montemarano, Writer

Jepich Dustpan and Brush Set

$12 at Amazon

Bring the fancy restaurant to you with this convenient table sweeper set. Instead of sweeping the baguette crumbs onto your floors for the dog to eat, sweep them up with this natural brush and metal set. The convenient dustbin is perfect for placing on the table ledge to sweep crumbs. You can use it on any surface you want to keep debris-free. The bristles aren’t too stiff and fine enough to pick up even the smallest particles. 

Goldmeet Silicone Kitchen Mini Oven Mitts

$13 at Amazon

Finding the perfect oven mitt is not as easy of a task as one would think. We’ve owned way too many over the years that disappoint, but these heat-resistant silicone mitts are tops. Not only are they smaller, meaning they are easier to pop on and off. But you are also able to pop these in the wash if you accidentally dip the tip into some lasagna. 

Graza "Drizzle" Extra Virgin Olive Oil

$21 at Amazon View on Graza.co View on FreshDirect

"Showing up with the cool kid-favorite Graza olive oil would basically solidify your status of best guest ever in my book. You can never have too much olive oil, and the Sizzle and Drizzle set offers both an option for cooking and an option for finishing. Plus, our editors love the design of the squeeze bottle so much, they refill and reuse it — and your host likely will too.” - Taysha Murtaugh, Vice President

Hay Sip Cocktail Straws

$21 at Amazon

If you expect the host to be slinging cocktails all night long, this gift will be their new best friend. These 6-inch glass straws fit neatly into a rocks glass or low ball, making cocktail hour feel a little more special and professional. 

Casamigos Cocktail Gift Set

$60 at Williams Sonoma

What do you get for the tequila-loving host when you don't know much about tequila? Look no further than this Casamigos kit to set your host up with everything they need for the perfect tequila cocktails when they already have their favorite tequila. Curious traditionalists will love the Signature Margarita Cocktail Mix with key lime and orange juice. While more adventurous sippers won't be able to stop talking about the Blackberry Basil mixer. You can also mix and match the salt and sugar rim mixes for a totally customizable drink experience.

Stone Hollow Farmstead Heirloom Popcorn Gift Box

$100 at Amazon View on Stonehollowfarmstead.com

This set is the ultimate gift for popcorn lovers. The four kernel varieties — Red Heirloom, Lady Finger, Blue Heirloom, and Rainbow Heirloom — are sustainably grown in Shelby County, Alabama. The Lady Finger kernels, our personal favorite, produce tiny, adorable pieces of popcorn — approximately half the size of the average popcorn kernel. Any movie night host will be thrilled to receive this popcorn set.

The Chai Box Chai Lover’s Gift Set

$86 $77 at Amazon $80 at Nordstrom View on Thechaibox.com

Oprah loves the chai from Atlanta-based Chai Box and so do we. Owner Monica Sunny's "chai meditations" on Instagram are as soothing as her quality tea blends. They are a great gift for any tea lover who also loves supporting small businesses. The company recently started selling at Costco, but you can find a lot of their chai gifts on Amazon.

Marky's American White Sturgeon

View on Markys.com

Caviar is such a luxury and a great gift for any gourmet party host. Marky's has many amazing caviar gifts, including this over-the-top lacquered box. But they also have more affordable tins of great caviar under $100, such as this American White Sturgeon. Since it is perishable, the caviar ships typically quickly, so you can gift it in time. Deliver it on ice and add all the accouterments, like some of Marky's French or Russian blinis or creme fraiche, so they have everything they need.