As gathering restrictions start to loosen, I'm looking forward to hosting friends on my rooftop again. As a self-proclaimed hostess with the mostest, I take my entertainment game pretty seriously. From the recipes [1] to the glassware [2], everything is taken into consideration to create the ultimate dining experience for my guests.
Fellow hosts will probably relate. There's so much joy to gain from catching up with friends over meals you made with love, I get a kick out of hosting food parties. Whether you want to fake your role in the kitchen or invite friends over for a culinary throwdown, you've probably reached a point in your life where you're ready for a real upgrade. Our top kitchen picks will make it look like you know your way around the room.
— Additional reporting by Rebecca Brown
Degrenne French Fuse Flatware Set
Get the Degrenne French Fuse Flatware Set [4] ($240-$434 for 24 pieces) in your favorite finish.
West Elm Gary Bodker Short Glass Caraf Cup Set
We're loving this West Elm Gary Bodker Short Glass Caraf Cup Set [5] ($90).
Personalized Picnic Table Wine Carrier
Just in time for spring, this Personalized Picnic Table Wine Carrier [6] ($180) will help make new memories.
Casafina Airtight Ceramic Storage Canisters
You'll have these functional Casafina Airtight Ceramic Storage Canisters [7] ($53-$104) on display.
EKOBO Bamboo & Melamine Sink Caddy
Keep your kitchen sink in order with the EKOBO Bamboo & Melamine Sink Caddy [8] ($24).
Spectrum Under Cabinet Triple Stemware Holder
This Spectrum Under Cabinet Triple Stemware Holder [9] ($13) is so smart if you're lacking cabinet space.
Drinking Glasses (Set of 4)
These everyday Drinking Glasses (Set of 4) [10] ($50) will add some color and playfulness to your kitchen shelves.
Studiopatró Cross-Back Linen Kitchen Aprons
These Studiopatró Cross-Back Linen Kitchen Aprons [11] ($84 each) are great picks for spring.
Revolution Cooking 2-Slice High-Speed Smart Toaster
This Revolution Cooking 2-Slice High-Speed Smart Toaster [12] ($300) will add so much more convenience to your day.
Glass Studio Sasaki Smoked Wine Glass (Set of 4)
These Glass Studio Sasaki Smoked Wine Glass (Set of 4) [13] ($50) will be a unique addition to your glassware.
Fluted Acrylic Glassware
These Fluted Acrylic Glassware [14] ($6 each) look so refined and polished.
Bloomsbury Market Priolo Shot Glasses (Set of 2)
Taco Tuesday isn't complete without these eye-catching Bloomsbury Market Priolo Shot Glasses (Set of 2) [15] ($12).
Veritable Smart Indoor Garden & Herb Grower
If you've ever thought about growing your own herbs, this Veritable Smart Indoor Garden & Herb Grower [16] ($48-$200) will be a game changer.
Kitchen Innovations Garlic-A-Peel Garlic Press
If you're over chopping and peeling garlic, then invest in this Kitchen Innovations Garlic-A-Peel Garlic Press [17] ($15).
That! Inventions Spread That Serrated Warming Butter Knife and Spreader
Spreading butter straight out of the fridge can be annoying, but the That! Inventions Spread That Serrated Warming Butter Knife and Spreader [18] ($20) is truly game changing.
Estelle Colored Wine Stemless Set
Because new wine glasses are always a must, treat yourself to the Estelle Colored Wine Stemless Set [19] ($160 for six).
Herb Saver Best Keeper
Keep your herbs fresh for as long as possible by storing them in this Herb Saver Best Keeper [20] ($21). Simply refill it with water every three to five days, and the herbs will last longer than ever.
Bamboozle Bamboo Compost Bins
These Bamboozle Bamboo Compost Bins [21] ($40 each) will help you master the art of composting.
West Elm Kaloh Stoneware Salad Plates
These West Elm Kaloh Stoneware Salad Plates [22] ($8 - $32) come in a number of stunning color choices.
Five Two Ultimate Baking Tool Set
Any baker could use this Five Two Ultimate Baking Tool Set [23] ($49) in their life.
Red Wine Stain Remover
This Red Wine Stain Remover [24] ($8) is a no-brainer.
Linus Tea Storage Box
This Linus Tea Storage Box [25] ($18) is the solution to keeping all your tea bags in an easily reachable place.
Our Place Nowruz Bundle
The Our Place Tahdig Trio [26] ($65) is the brand's newest addition its traditional-ware collection. Made in celebration with Nooruz, which marks the beginning of the spring equinox in Iranian culture. Nooruz's most famous dish, Tahdig, is a crispy rice that's made by flipping over a pot when it's done being cooked. The amazing new Noosh-e-Joon Platter solves the problem of making the 180 degree flip easier than ever. Shop the launch by getting the addition to your pan or investing in the whole bundle [27], plus you can try the amazing recipe for yourself.
Yamazaki Banana Holder
The Yamazaki Banana Holder [28] ($19) will keep your countertop looking clean.
Ben Medansky Dune Coasters
These Ben Medansky Dune Coasters [29] ($45) are both stylish and help prevent rings.
Yamazaki Expandable Cutlery Drawer Organizer
We love that you can see through the Yamazaki Expandable Cutlery Drawer Organizer [30] ($22).
Food52 Five Two Bamboo Cutting Board
This Food52 Five Two Bamboo Cutting Board [31] ($59) is so practical, modern, and sleek.
Ratio Eight Coffee Maker
This Ratio Eight Coffee Maker [32] ($495) is genius. With just the touch of a button, it will deliver your perfect pour-over cup.
Qualia Glass Orbit Wine Glasses (Set of 4)
These Qualia Glass Orbit Wine Glasses (Set of 4) [33] ($33, originally $56) are the stylish upgrade your bar cart needs.
MINNA Modern Cotton Oven Mitt
This MINNA Modern Cotton Oven Mitt [34] ($40) is a must.
Butter Churner
Let this Butter Churner [35] ($39) do the work of making his own fresh batch of butter for him.
Row Boat Serving Bowl With Wood Serving Utensils
Who wouldn't want to be served from this Row Boat Serving Bowl With Wood Serving Utensils [36] ($65)?
Gourmet Oil Dipping Spice Kit
The chef in your life will love this Gourmet Oil Dipping Spice Kit [37] ($42).
Instant Pot Duo 6qt 7-in-1 Pressure Cooker
The Instant Pot Duo 6qt 7-in-1 Pressure Cooker [38] ($100) is the one-stop-shop for cooking a variety of quick, hassel-free meals.
Wall Mount Wine Barrel Bottle Opener
You'll never have to worry about broken corks, thanks to this practical Wall Mount Wine Barrel Bottle Opener [39] ($72, originally $150).
Marble Wine Coaster
This Marble Wine Coaster [40] ($20) will look good on your kitchen counter.
Emile Henry Oil Cruet
This Emile Henry Oil Cruet [41] ($45 each) will look so good on your kitchen counter — plus, you'll get a ton of use out of it.
Ten Speed Press Food52 Signed Cookbooks
These Ten Speed Press Food52 Signed Cookbooks [42] ($162) are the ultimate gift set.
Yamazaki Spice Bottles With Rack
Keep your pantry organized with the Yamazaki Spice Bottles With Rack [43] ($33).
Estelle Colored Glass Stemmed Wine Glasses (Set of 6)
These Estelle Colored Glass Stemmed Wine Glasses (Set of 6) [44] ($175) are so cheerful, making them a festive addition to any party.
Vidalia Chop Wizard
Cut up vegetables quickly with the Vidalia Chop Wizard [45] ($25).
S'well Black Marble Ice Bucket & Tongs Set
This S'well Black Marble Ice Bucket & Tongs Set [46] ($50) looks a lot more expensive than it is.
Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit
The Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit [47] ($40) not only tests your culinary expertise but also your spice level.
Marble Cookbook Stand
You'll get a lot of use out of this Marble Cookbook Stand [48] ($30).
Salsa Grow Kit
Take homemade to a whole new level with the Salsa Grow Kit [49] ($12).
New World Sourdough Cookbook
Perfect the art of bread making with the New World Sourdough Cookbook [50] ($28).
Immersion Hand Blender
Whip up smoothies, soups, and more with this handy Immersion Hand Blender [51] ($50, originally $59).
Smart Garden Grow Kit
Grow herbs and veggies with the Smart Garden Grow Kit [52] ($100). It includes NASA-inspired soil that will give plants the proper amounts of oxygen, nutrients, and water. All you do is add water to a capsule once a month and you're set.
Compact Swivel Cheese Board With Knives
This Compact Swivel Cheese Board With Knives [53] ($45 - $69) is for the hostess with the mostest.
The Rise by Marcus Samuelsson
More than a cookbook, The Rise by Marcus Samuelsson [54] ($27) is a celebration of Black food. Drawing inspiration from Southern, West African, Caribbean, and East African cuisines, the recipes are as diverse as they are inspiring. I'm excited to get my copy now that it's been released, and I hope you'll join me in this appreciation of Black chefs and migrant stories.
Automatic Pan Stirrer with Timer
Save yourself the arm workout with this handy Automatic Pan Stirrer With Timer [55] ($25).
Eco-Friendly Instant Grill
If you don't have a grill at home, this Eco-Friendly Instant Grill [56] ($15) is a good option.
Alem Cotton Napkin Set
The Alem Cotton Napkin Set [57] ($75) looks elegant and and modern.
Ivan Ramen by Ivan Orkin
After watching his episode of Chef's Table, I immediately had to grab Ivan Ramen by Ivan Orkin [58] ($17). While I'm still missing some ingredients to make his savory ramen, I'm excited to get through winter with this cookbook.
Artisanal Kitchen Supply Marble Napkin Holder
This Artisanal Kitchen Supply Marble Napkin Holder [59] ($15) will keep all your napkins or kitchen towels in order.
Our Place Always Pan
The bestselling Our Place Always Pan [60] ($145) is a great way to introduce yourself to the brand, if you haven't already. It's made to replace the use of eight traditional pots and pans and save space in your cabinets. Not only is the size great for everything from pancakes to pasta, but it features a spatula, a handy spatula rest, a pour spout, and chic design. Plus, it comes in tons of great colors, so you can get the one that most matches your space.
The Cooking Gene by Michael W. Twitty
There's a reason The Cooking Gene by Michael W. Twitty [61] ($17) won the 2018 James Beard Foundation's book of the year award. Twitty, a culinary historian, takes the reader through an eye-opening memoir of Southern cuisine and food culture, paying homage to his unique heritage.
Black Girl Baking by Jerrelle Guy
In Black Girl Baking [62] ($16), author Jerrelle Guy takes us on a special baking journey that involves all our senses. From rosketti cookies to orange-peel pound cake, each recipe is infused with her personal story, combining practical advice with a unique storytelling flair.
Ceramic Microgreens Grower
Salads, smoothies, sandwiches and more, incorporate more microgreens into your lifestyle with the Ceramic Microgreens Grower [63] ($60).
Kuhn Rikon Piranha Fruit and Vegetable Peeler
This Kuhn Rikon Piranha Fruit and Vegetable Peeler [64] ($11) is so handy.
Senegal: Modern Senegalese Recipes From the Source to the Bowl by Pierre Thiam and Jennifer Sit
One of my all-time favorite cookbooks? No doubt, Senegal: Modern Senegalese Recipes From the Source to the Bowl by Pierre Thiam and Jennifer Sit [65] ($25)! Whether you make the leg of lamb or striped sea bass with tomato relish, you will be transported into the country's rich, multifaceted cuisine.
Jubilee: Recipes From Two Centuries of African American Cooking by Toni Tipton-Martin
In Jubilee: Recipes From Two Centuries of African American Cooking [66] ($20), author Toni Tipton-Martin brings us into the kitchens of masters, teaching us how to make a host of savory and sweet dishes, like seafood gumbo, buttermilk fried chicken, pecan pie with bourbon, sweet potato biscuits, and so much more. I'm drooling just thinking about it.
FinaMill
The FinaMill [67] ($35) is a battery-operated spice grinder. You can even adjustable coarseness of your spice!
S'well Calacatta Gold 18-Ounce Cocktail Shaker Set
Get this S'well Calacatta Gold 18-Ounce Cocktail Shaker Set [68] ($40) for the next Zoom happy hour.
Tangy Tart Hot and Sweet by Padma Lakshmi
If you're a fan of award-winning author Padma Lakshmi, buy this cookbook ASAP. Tangy Tart Hot and Sweet [69] ($16 and up) makes it super easy to accomplish the most elaborate meals, such as BBQ Korean short ribs, Keralan crab cakes, and chocolate amaretto ice cream. You'll experience a host of favors and learn about new spices.
Plenty More by Yotam Ottolenghi
We also have Plenty More by Yotam Ottolenghi [70] ($24). It will be your go-to for healthy, meatless recipes that will leave you wanting more.
Our Place Spruce Steamer
The Our Place Spruce Steamer [71] ($30) is one of the brand's newest go-to tools. It simply attaches to the pan to steam dumplings, vegetables, fish, tamales . . . the list is endless.
In Bibi's Kitchen by Hawa Hassan and Julia Turshen
Somali chef Hawa Hassan gathered stories from bibis (or grandmothers) and shared 75 recipes in this illuminating book, In Bibi's Kitchen [72] ($19). You'll be transported to eight African nations (South Africa, Mozambique, Madagascar, Comoros, Tanzania, Kenya, Somalia, and Eritrea) through the flavors of mangoes, cinnamon, dates, and so much more.
Mueller Large 5L Salad Spinner
Let's be honest, the worst part about washing lettuce is drying it. This Mueller Large 5L Salad Spinner [73] ($28, originally $40) will make drying so much easier.
Fellow Clyde Stovetop Tea Kettle
This Fellow Clyde Stovetop Tea Kettle [74] ($99) looks sleek and modern. You'll have it on display all day.