Our Food Editor’s KC gifting picks for the foodies on your list

Photo by Sarah Sipple

Gifting is an art, and I’ve been known to excel at this medium.

This specific list is comprised of things I have used, tested, and thoroughly enjoyed. They also happen to be local, consumable, and relatively practical gift ideas. 

If you’re not shopping directly from someone’s wishlist, I’m a firm believer that a consumable gift is a safe bet. These items don’t necessarily take up space on a shelf and won’t end up at the thrift store in a few months when the giftee’s guilt wears off.

Plus, these are items that can be shared. Any gift that allows for a shared experience, such as communing over dinner or a homemade cocktail, is a gift that keeps on giving.

From my kitchen, bar cart, or belly to yours–happy gifting!

Edible Flower Petal Mix from Nurturing with Nature ($15)

A little jar of edible flowers is the perfect gift for a cocktail queen, amateur baker, or cottage-core friend. Ariel Olson grows and harvests pesticide-free flowers in Missouri, selling handmade products on Etsy and at occasional pop-ups.

I picked up this Edible Flower Petal Mix at a Hera Community event. I intended it for cocktails and mocktails, and while it does rest beautifully on my bar cart, it has come in handy for much more. 

A sprinkle of this makes everything from Costco cakes to avocado toast more lovely and couture. The colorful petals add a touch of whimsy to anything and definitely make it look more expensive.

The contents go a long way. At first, I was bummed getting what I thought was such a small container. Now, I’ve used the product about ten times, and there’s barely a dent in the flowers!

Steak Seasoning from Q39 ($10.95+)

Though I’m not one to cook a steak at home, this product is a staple in my kitchen.

Almost anything that I add salt to is also going to be better with this pepper and garlic blend, so I reach for this more than standard salt. 

My brother is more of a home cook and griller than I am, so I gifted him one of these in April. While at his house for the last Chiefs game I noticed that his container was nearly empty, making this one double sibling-approved.

Cheesecake delivery from Yanaka Food ($38)

One of the most unique gifts available in KC is a Classic Basque “Burnt” Cheesecake delivered to your door. Or perhaps to a friend or family member’s door who is playing host for the holidays. Kuda Munyawiri will deliver a beautifully packaged cheesecake–literally wrapped with a bow. That’s a doorbell ring they’ll want to answer. 

This unique cheesecake is unlike most found in grocery stores. It is burnt, on purpose, offering a variance in texture and near-smokiness in the top layer. It comes with dainty glass jars of toppings for a custom tasting experience, including Fig & Red Wine Compote, Raspberry Sherry Compote, Spicy Mango Chutney, and Chili Oil Crunch.

Hot Honey from H Sauce ($14)

I will go out on a limb and say that most cheese is better with a little hot honey. This local version has been a favorite of mine. It is slightly more subtle–in sweetness and heat–than some other big-name brands I have tried. I add it to pizza and chunks of manchego to recreate my favorite appetizer from Merchants Pub and Plate and use it in marinades. 

Chocolates from Christopher Elbow ($10+)

This has been my go-to for easy, crowd-pleasing gifting for years. This is nothing groundbreaking for most Kansas Citians. I’m just happy to remind you. 

Online ordering is available, but hand-selecting chocolates in person at the East Crossroads shop is a delightful experience. At the chocolate shop, customers can view the process and even book a tour to see how the artful and impeccably smooth chocolates are made. 

In the holiday collection, the Cookies and Milk flavor should be left out for Santa to honor the hosts and parents who do all the work of making holiday magic happen. The praline and ganache layers offer a fascinating texture reminiscent of oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. 

Gift pack of sauces from Gates Bar-B-Q ($16.37)

Opinions on barbeque in KC are as plentiful as the number of twinkling lights on the Plaza. But few would deny the impact of Gates on the city’s history.

The gift sets (actually larger than the one pictured above) allow you to customize the flavors and introduce your favorites to out-of-towners. It’s also the type of white elephant or exchange gift that people may end up fighting over.

Chips and salsa from Yoli Tortilleria 

If you’re not the cook or host in your circle, here’s a pro tip: If you plan to show up early to someone’s house this holiday season to help or hang out, bring a snack. 

Showing up with a bottle of wine is generally welcome, but showing up with an easy snack to chow down on while prepping? Impeccable. This will help prevent hanger–especially important when family may be involved–with minimal prep or cleaning for the host. 

Why spring for these? First–hello, it’s from a James Beard Award-winning bakery. Plus, it is a woman-owned company and just damned good. The items are available at their shop in KC, as well as Whole Foods, The Merc Coop, and Nature’s Own Health Food Markets.