You’ve probably heard of the five love languages, but we’d argue there’s a secret sixth one: food. No offense to roses, but some people would much rather receive rose-colored coupes or rose-flavored chocolate. And here at Food52, we get that better than anyone. We’d even go so far to say that a great meal (or the tools to make one) is the ultimate love language.
So, for the person who dreams in Le Creuset or considers homemade pasta peak romance, we’ve rounded up 11 food-focused gifts that are sure to win them over. If this sounds like your valentine (or valentines) may we suggest swapping flour for flowers? Or, even better, some flower-shaped salad servers. If they somehow already have an abundance of those (though we’d argue there’s no such thing), consider a food-themed puzzle you can solve together, or a heart-shaped skillet to inspire future cooking dates. We’ve got them all here.
1. Areaware Flower Salad Servers
This is how you get creative with flowers this year. A great pair of wooden salad servers is always a must—trust us. Plus, these have a playful, retro feel that makes even a simple pile of arugula feel special.
2. Estelle Colored Coupes
These Estelle coupes were practically made for Valentine’s gifting. The peach and pink hues begging for some bubbly. Or, if your valentine prefers a stirred cocktail, we have plenty of ideas.
3. Gohar World Dessert Candles
If homemade dessert isn’t in the cards, these sculptural dessert candles from Gohar World are the next best thing. Inspired by different cities, you can pick one from a meaningful place—or hint at a future trip.
4. Genius Desserts Book
While we love an online recipe, there’s just something special about a physical cookbook. And when it comes to baking, Kristen Miglore’s Genius Desserts is packed with recipes from some of the best pastry chefs. If you’re looking for more cookbook inspiration, check out our list of best new releases from 2024.
5. Diaspora Co. Baking Duo
The perfect baking duo—just like you and your valentine. This set from Diaspora Co. includes their aromatic vanilla beans and rich cacao powder, the dream team for next-level desserts (especially anything chocolate).
6. Frieling Pasta Cutter Set
What’s more romantic than making pasta together? Gift this ahead of time for a cooking date night on the 14th. Just roll it over your dough to make everything from fettuccine to farfalle.
7. Le Creuset Heart-Shaped Skillet
If you really want to impress, this heart-shaped skillet from Le Creuset is sure to do the trick. You can’t go wrong with anything from their Valentine’s Day collection or in their deep berry shade. Break it in with a breakfast spread—think heart-shaped pancakes, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
8. NY Food Heart Puzzle
Before tackling IKEA furniture together, test your relationship with this 500-piece food-themed puzzle. It’s a low-stakes challenge, and a fun one at that, but still a great way to bond over your mutual love of food.
Photo by Julia Gartland
9. Jeni’s Valentine’s Day Pint Collection
Swoon and spoon with Jeni’s Valentine’s Day pint collection, which includes Brambleberry Crisp, Gooey Butter Cake, and Honey Vanilla Bean, just to name a few. A fun alternative? A pint of Van Leuween’s Love Language ice cream.
10. Staub Cocotte
If you really are into someone, you get them a dutch oven built to last a lifetime—just like your love (aww). Spend a Sunday simmering a buttery tomato sauce, baking the perfect no-knead sourdough loaf, or making a cozy stew.
11. Organic Chocolate Subscription
Give that special someone the best gift of all: a full year’s worth of small batch organic chocolate bars. No worries if you’re not that serious yet—you can also choose from a six- or a three-month supply, just in case.
13 Under-$50 Gift Ideas For Valentines & Galentines Alike
We want to know: What’s the best food-related gift you’ve ever received?
