Kitchen & Bar Gadgets for White-Elephant Gifting
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Food & Wine’s 2025 White‑Elephant Gift Guide – A Quick‑Look Summary
For holiday parties, Christmas office exchanges, or any gathering where a “white‑elephant” (or “Secret Santa”) gift can spark conversation and laughter, Food & Wine’s latest guide gives editors’ favorite picks for 2025. The article is a mix of quirky novelty items and genuinely useful gadgets, all chosen for their “wow” factor and practicality in a party‑setting. Below is a rundown of the key highlights, organized by category, with a few extra tidbits gathered from the article’s links.
1. Kitchen & Bar Gadgets
Food & Wine starts the guide by zeroing in on items that are instantly useful, even if they have a playful twist. The editor’s first pick is a Mason‑Jar Cocktail Kit that includes a stainless‑steel shaker, measuring cups, and a handful of cocktail recipes. The article links to the vendor’s page where buyers can see the 10‑piece set’s price (currently $34.99 on the brand’s site) and read customer reviews that praise the kit’s convenience for on‑the‑go sipping.
Another kitchen favourite is the “Mug‑In‑a‑Jar” coffee maker – a simple, portable solution that lets you brew a single cup of coffee at a coffee‑shop quality. The linked product description notes the ceramic inner pot and its 4‑cup capacity, a feature that the editors highlight for travelers and office workers alike.
The “must‑have” bar accessory is the hand‑crafted crystal wine stopper. With its elegant design and adjustable neck, the stopper’s link reveals that it is sold for $29.95 on the boutique’s site. Editors loved the stopper for its aesthetic appeal and the practical benefit of keeping wine fresh for longer.
2. Playful Office & Party Toys
Food & Wine’s editors appreciate the sense of humor that can transform a boring exchange into a memorable event. The guide lists “The Desk‑Tennis” set—a miniature ping‑pong table that can be set up on any desk. A linked review on the manufacturer’s website shows a price of $39.99 and a note that the table folds flat for easy storage.
A more creative option is the “Scented Candle‑In‑a‑Pillow” set. These pillow‑scented candles, available in lavender and peppermint, are highlighted for their double‑purpose: a cozy throw pillow that also provides a subtle aroma. The article links to a lifestyle blog that explains how the candles are made from soy wax and essential oils, and notes a price range of $25–$35.
For a truly interactive gift, the guide includes a “DIY Terrarium Kit”. With a glass container, soil, pebbles, and a selection of small succulents, this kit encourages creativity. The product page the article links to lists the kit for $49.95, and the editors note that it’s great for people who enjoy hands‑on hobbies but don’t have a green thumb.
3. Tech & Gadgets
Recognizing that modern parties often involve screens and gadgets, the editors also recommend a few tech‑friendly gifts. A portable Bluetooth speaker is a top pick, praised for its deep bass and water‑resistance. The article’s link to the product shows a 10‑hour battery life and a price of $79.99.
Another tech‑savvy choice is the wireless charging pad that accepts both Qi‑enabled devices and a magnetic phone case. The link to the vendor’s page points out that the pad can charge a phone, a smartwatch, and a wireless earbud all at once, at a cost of $45.99.
For the gadget lovers, the editors highlight a “Mini Drone” with a 720p camera. The linked review notes that the drone is lightweight, has a 3‑minute flight time, and is priced at $89.99. The editors recommend it for parties where a quick photo‑taking session can become an impromptu game.
4. Food‑Related “Gifts” That Double as Gifts
Food & Wine’s editors love anything that can feed a crowd or add a delicious twist to a party menu. The guide includes a “Gourmet Popcorn Maker” that can pop kernels and allow users to flavor them with pre‑measured seasoning packets. The product’s page, linked in the article, shows a price of $59.99 and a mention that the maker can pop up to 4 cups of popcorn in 3 minutes.
A classic but updated item is the “Artisanal Hot Chocolate Kit”. This set comes with high‑quality cocoa, marshmallows, and a small ceramic mug. The linked page highlights the 8‑ounce cocoa mix, the marshmallow dispenser, and the fact that the whole kit sells for $27.99.
The editors also pick a “Mason‑Jar Wine Preserver” that keeps wine fresh after opening. The vendor’s link in the article explains the device’s 3‑way valve system, and the product is listed at $22.50.
5. Budget‑Friendly Alternatives
Not everyone wants to splurge, and the guide therefore lists a few pocket‑friendly options that still pack a punch. The editors recommend a “Silly String Pack” (under $10) for a quick party activity, a “Mini Flashlight” that doubles as a keychain ($8), and a “Colorful Notepad” with a built‑in sticky note dispenser (price: $9.99). Each of these items is linked to its retailer’s page where the editors highlight the product’s durability and unique design.
6. Where to Find These Gifts
Throughout the article, each product is linked to either the manufacturer’s website or a trusted retailer (Amazon, Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, etc.). The editors encourage readers to look at the product descriptions, read customer reviews, and check out the shipping information before purchasing. Many of the links also direct readers to a “Full Gift Guide” page that provides additional options, price comparisons, and seasonal deals.
Bottom Line
Food & Wine’s 2025 white‑elephant gift guide offers a blend of the whimsical and the functional, ensuring that whether you’re looking for something to spark conversation, a gadget that will actually be used, or a food‑centric surprise, you’ll find it. By following the article’s links, readers can dive deeper into each product’s specs, read honest reviews, and make an informed decision about which gift will best suit the party vibe they’re aiming for.
With this guide in hand, the next white‑elephant exchange is guaranteed to be less “generic gag” and more “fun, useful, and unforgettable.”
Read the Full Food & Wine Article at:
[ https://www.foodandwine.com/editor-loved-white-elephant-gifts-2025-11858989 ]