It’s giving season, which means lots of planning, shopping, and stressing over what goodies to share with your seemingly endless lists of naughty and nice. This year, don’t get trapped in analysis paralysis: take notes from one of your favorite Caputo’s players and show the holidays who’s boss.

Don’t see your favorite monger here? Drop by before the holiday—we’re open through the afternoon of Christmas Eve—and ask them for their personal recommendations. We’re certainly not lacking in opinions around here.

So, here you have it. Our gift picks for 2023 are below!

Matt Caputo
President

Tony’s Flowers – A tribute to his father, our namesake, and the set of ethos that we’re proud to hold and share. A labor of love from the pressing of curds to the adorning of flowers around its subtly funky rind, this cheese represents more than just the deliciousness that it holds.

Yelena Caputo
Vice President

Güeyu Mar – “Fresh caught and chargrilled a la brasa, these fishes are prepared the same way for lunch service at the esteemed Asturian Restaurante Güeyu Mar as they are for each individual tin. This summer, we had the honor of visiting the Asador (grill master), Abel Alvarez, in real life and experienced the magic of his beachside restaurant and cannery. Having the opportunity to gift Güeyu Mar’s preserved morsels of tinned fish, expertly gift wrapped as-is, will inevitably be the highlight of my gift giving season!”

Adri Pachelli
Senior Manager & Director of Education

Mocktails Class – New (next) year! We love inviting friends to share their mixology knowhow, but have always lacked an option for those looking to avoid the hard liquor. New for 2024, we’re sharing new ways to capture your creativity without a painful wakeup the next morning.

Jamey Chelius
15th & 15th General Manager

Panettone (In Person Exclusive) – “It’s one of my favorite holiday treats. In my house, we like to have it on Christmas eve. Whatever’s left, we turn into French Toast in the morning!”

Austin Shimada
Holladay General Manager

Ramen Noodles + Broth – “A nice steaming hot bowl of delicious ramen on a cold winter day. Enough said.”

Alicia Konzen
Downtown Market Manager

“We all need a little more excitement, so this year, my theme is ‘Now you can be a fun-gi too!'” Featuring Regalis Winter Black Truffle Honeycomb, Raaka Cocoa Magic Mushroom Blend, and Naive Porcini Dark Milk Chocolate.

Antonia Horne
Lead Affineuse, Caputo’s Cheese Caves

Daphnis & Chloe Mediterranean Essentials Spice Set – “I chose Daphnis & Chloe seasonings because I hope that each dish they’re used in reminds my loved ones that I care. And I use these herbs every day, so I want my family to be just as spoiled as I am!”
Set features:
– Oregano from Taygetus
– Fragrant Fennel Seeds
– Rosemary Leaves
– Selected Bay Leaves
– Smoked Bukovo Chili Flakes
– Wild Thyme Flowers

Christian Birch
Downtown Deli Manager

Noord Hollander – “It’s my favorite cheese to snack on, it’s crunchy, and has a complex almost nutty flavor. I wanna have it all the time!”

Marian McKenney
In-house Pastry Chef

Caputo’s Olive Oil – “During the holidays there is plenty of sugar to go around. I love to give olive oil as a practical gift. This bottle will last longer than a sweet treat, but can be used in so many applications from Christmas dinner to new years, sweet and savory. I absolutely love giving this to people who don’t know what good olive oil is. My favorite dessert to use this in during the holidays is olive oil cake.”

What do serious food nerds give for Christmas? Pull up a chair and check out the blog below for serious #giftinspo from your favorite faces at Caputo’s.

Don’t see your favorite monger here? Drop by before the holiday—we’re open through the afternoon of Christmas Eve—and ask them for their personal recommendations. We’re certainly not lacking in opinions around here.

So, here you have it: each of our gift picks for 2022:

Matt Caputo
President

Jose Gourmet Custom 12-pack – Matt practically eats a tin of conservas each day for lunch, so it’s only natural he would want others to do the same. Find out why Matt loves these here.

Yelena Caputo
Vice President

Conservas Dinner & Classes – “Conservas culture is dominating just about every metropolis in the world, making me particularly excited about bringing conservas culture to our ever expanding city. Matt and I will be hosting a Conservas Dinner as part of our Education Program but slightly different, in a more personal and intimate setting. Space is limited so run now to our website to reserve. A truly one-of-a-kind gift experience! And if you’re into gifting experiences in lieu of more stuff, Caputo’s Classes are the gift for you. Our classes are based in appreciation and designed for foodies and newcomers alike, no experience necessary! Only Delicious Days Ahead.”

Adri Pachelli
Senior Manager & Director of Education

Viola Nuovo – “There’s olive oil, and then there’s NUOVO olive oil. The brightest, grassiest, and most peppery flavors are often unattainable in the coldest months, but a drizzle of nuovo olive oil brings liveliness with minimal effort. We receive our nuovo oil just before the holidays (right after olives are picked an pressed). There’s nothing else like it, and the most discerning palates on my list will love it.”

Jamey Chelius
15th & 15th General Manager

Regalis Caviar Golden Osetra 4oz -During the holiday season, Jamey values taking time from his busy schedule to enjoy the finer things in life, like a jar of caviar to share.

Austin Shimada
Holladay General Manager

King Floyd’s Spicy Margarita Peanuts – Austin’s annual family vacation includes a gifted treat each time they make a journey to the beach. This year, they’ll be enjoying cocktail inspired peanuts from bitters maker King Floyd’s.

Alicia Konzen
Downtown Market Manager

“My theme is “eFISHent gifting, a variety of tinned fish: Ati Manel, Espinaler, Ekone, Patagonia”

Antonia Horne
Affineuse, Caputo’s Cheese Caves

Old-Timey Sweets (raising the bar on her family’s conventional favorites) –Mayana bars, Tom Bumble, Pate de Fruit, Scaldaferro Torrone, Omnom Malt Balls

Christian Birch
Downtown Deli Manager

Christian knows these sell out every year and ran to grab some from our panettone pyramid for his friends and family before they’re all gone.

Taiya Kirk
Office Manager & Concierge Specialist

Taiya knows how to decompress after the holidays and is giving the gift of restful indulgence with Pump Street Chocolate Father Christmas paired with locally crafted beer, both available at our downtown location. Learn more about this dynamic pairing at our Beer & Chocolate class.

Marian McKenney
In-house Pastry Chef

Local Utah Gift Collection – Marian rests easy knowing we’ve curated the best local treasures so her loved ones don’t have to.

What do serious food nerds give for Christmas? Pull up a chair and check out the blog below for serious #giftinspo from your favorite faces at Caputo’s.

Don’t see your favorite monger here? Drop by before the holiday—we’re open through the afternoon of Christmas Eve—and ask them for their personal recommendations. We’re certainly not lacking in opinions around here.

So, here you have it: each of our gift picks for 2021:

Matt Caputo
President and ultimate boss-man

Biscotti di Nocciola – Matt Caputo proclaimed these as “The BEST COOKIES EVER.” Made with EU protected hazelnuts from the Piemonte region, the delicate sweetness and crunch of these biscotti allow the flavor of the prized nut to shine.

Yelena Caputo
Vice President, and ultimatest boss who oversees said boss-man

Caputo’s Wild Jurua 70% – When preserving biodiversity within cacao meets art meets complex, flavorful craft chocolate, you give it to everyone you know. Made with wild cacao foraged from the Upper Amazon in the Brazilian jungle, this bar is just one way we fight to preserve the food traditions of our collective ancestors.

Adri Pachelli
Senior Manager & Director of Education

Mirzam Dark Chocolate Covered Oranges – Fresh oranges, delicately candied and dipped in Mirzam’s delicious 62% single origin dark chocolate. Sunshine in a jar, and Adri’s current favorite treat.

Alicia Konzen
Downtown Market Manager

Barnacle Foods kelp based products (hot sauce, seasonings, jellies, bbq sauce, and more!) – “Can I KELP you?”  Our Downtown queen loves puns, and the name of her gift shows it. Every Barnacle product features kelp as its main ingredient, with scrumptious and nutritious results.

Antonia Horne
Affineuse AKA maker of all tasty things from our Cheese Caves

Buddha Hand Tincture – Known for its unique shape and beloved for its aroma, Buddha Hand finds new expression in Workhorse Rye’s tincture (tincture: a single ingredient extraction, vs. bitters: multiple ingredients). With a spirit base of 100% clementines, this tincture offers incredible flavor for bevies and baking.

Jamey Chelius
15th & 15th General Manager

Pruneaux d’Agen Fourres – Our New Mexican native and fearless 15th leader is giving a classic French delicacy – he calls them “fancy prunes,” – this year.  These full bodied Agen prunes are de-pitted and filled with a smooth Agen prune puree delicately flavored with vanilla. Incredible accompaniment to roasted pork or funky cheese.

Austin Shimada
Holladay General Manager

Local Utah Gift Collection – Our Holladay GM – another fearless leader! – is giving the best of the best of Utah artisan goodies – a whole box of them, in fact. Utah cheese, Utah chocolate, Utah honey, and more, all in a beautifully branded gift box.

Christian Birch
Downtown Deli Manager

Caputo’s Christmas in July by Solstice Chocolate – Christian runs our downtown deli with a huge smile and a generous attitude. His gift is near and dear to our hearts – an eggnog spiced dark milk chocolate bar created by Matt, Yelena, and Solstice Chocolate as a gift to crew members when they couldn’t gather during Covid. This small batch bar – made just for Caputo’s crew – became so cherished that we had to share it with everyone.

Heather Aagard
Social Media Maven and Merchandising Coordinator

Caputo’s Culture Club – Who doesn’t want a subscription to fancy cheese, salumi, chocolate, and more?! Heather’s the wannabe president of this club full of foodies and friends. Every other month, recipients receive a box of cheese, salumi, accompaniments (including items like chestnut honey, craft chocolate, Matt’s fave hazelnut cookies), tasting guides and an unboxing video with our very own Adri.

Shaymus Bertagnolli
General badass and our in-house beer expert

Craft Beer from our very own cooler! – Our hero from Malty Monday has a new gig – curating the collection of craft beer for sale in our Downtown market! Grab a cold one for your friends and fam while you shop for artisan cheese, chocolate, and salumi to pair with it. That’s our kind of one-stop shopping.

You’re still not sure what to give, and you haven’t started shopping yet? That’s OK, we won’t tell a soul. In an effort to inspire your food gifting, here’s what some of your favorite faces from Caputo’s are giving to their friends and family this year.

Don’t see your favorite monger here? Drop by before the holiday—we’re open through the afternoon of Christmas Eve—and ask them for their personal recommendations. We’re certainly not lacking in opinions around here.

So, here you have it: each of our gift picks for 2020:

Matt Caputo
President and ultimate boss-man

Fresh Black Truffles – As the ultimate boss-man, Matt has chosen the ultimate foodie gift – fresh black truffles. (Pssst – they also look suspiciously like coal, which was what ultimate boss lady Yelena’s suggested gift for Matt would be…).

Yelena Caputo
Vice President, and ultimatest boss who oversees said boss-man

Chapon Canelas – Yelena is THE classiest lady we know. And her gifting choices are no different. This year, she’s giving French chocolate wizard Chapon’s exquisite Canelas – tiny French confections with nougatine and a dark chocolate shell.

Adri Pachelli
Senior Manager & Director of Education

Regalis White Sturgeon Caviar – We all know Adri does NOT mess around. So when Caputo’s brought in caviar for the first time, she scooped up a 1 oz jar faster than you can say “fancy.”

Alicia Konzen
Downtown Market Manager

Hot Off the PAN –  An Alicia original. If you’ve ever met Alicia, you’d know she loves a play on words! Her gifts are no different. She’s giving all things “pan” – Panettone meets panforte meets pandoro! Tis the season, after all.

Antonia Horne
Affineuse AKA maker of all tasty things from our Cheese Caves

Half Wheel of Raclette – This Christmas, Antonia is sharing Raclette with friends and family. Since she can’t give them actual hugs, she’s giving “inside hugs,” of the coziest, most comforting cheese she knows.

Jamey Chelius
15th & 15th General Manager

Patagonia Provisions Mussels Gift Pack – Our New Mexican native and fearless 15th leader knows a thing or two about serious flavor. Especially when it comes to conservas! Patagonia (yup, same company as the parkas and tents) triple threat of mussels is right up his alley.

Austin Shimada
Holladay General Manager

Scaldaferro Crumbly Nougat Pie – In life there are precious few morsels that transport the consciousness to a different time and place. This is one of those morsels. When an artisan makes nougat based on the waning or the waxing of the moon and explains it in such a way that makes sense, Austin goes out of his way to eat – ahem, gift – that nougat.

Christian Birch
Downtown Deli Manager

Som Cordial Gift Pack and Cranberry Som – Christian is the cheeriest guy in the deli! And he enjoys a cheery drink as much as anyone. Som’s cordials make bev making easy (and delicious!) for both cocktail and mocktail drinkers alike.

Tony and Mary Caputo
The OG himself and his fine lady

City Weekly’s First Every Recipe Book – Tony and Mary are friends with everyone in the local food community! His gift, then, is no surprise. He’s gifting the City Weekly’s Recipe Book – a commemorative compilation of recipes from top Utah eateries and distilleries. But wait – there’s more than just cooking how to’s – the proceeds benefit the Galena Fund (support for local journalism) and the Tip Your Server Campaign (support for local displaced waitstaff in the Hospitality industry).

Heather Aagard
Social Media Maven and Merchandising Coordinator

Omnom GIANT Sea Salted Almonds bar – Heather is known for her enthusiasm – for all things cheese, chocolate, and, well, really anything in our markets! And when full 8 oz GIANT Omnom Chocolate bars landed from Iceland, you could hear her squeal for miles.

You’re still not sure what to give, and you haven’t started shopping yet? That’s OK, we won’t tell a soul. In an effort to inspire your food gifting, here’s what some of your favorite faces from Caputo’s are giving to their friends and family this year.

Don’t see your favorite monger here? Drop by before the holiday—we’re open through the afternoon of Christmas Eve—and ask them for their personal recommendations. We’re certainly not lacking in opinions around here.

So, here you have it: each of our gift picks for 2019:

Matt Caputo
President and ultimate boss-man

Luisa Abram Trio – The flavors from Brazil meet the most exciting piece of cacao culture. Newly discovered wild cacao from the depths of the Amazon meet Brazil inclusions, like candied cupuaçu, in these thoughtfully made artisan bars.

Yelena Caputo
Vice President, and ultimatest boss who oversees said boss-man

Gift Collections – Our gift collections received some serious love before the holiday season this year. Choose from a variety of themes, price points, and flavors. The selection is vast, but the curation is impeccable.

Adri Pachelli
Senior Manager & Director of Education

Pump St Father Christmas – While quickly becoming a Caputo’s tradition, these craft chocolate St. Nicks blow the rest out of the water. There’s no ho ho ho without a craft chocolate Santa.

Alicia Konzen
Downtown Market Manager

Go FIGure –  An Alicia original. All things fig, all season, for every sweet indulgence. Fig and chocolate panettone meets fig and marcona almond cake and a vegan fig salami. Tis the season, after all.

Antonia Horne
Affineuse AKA maker of all tasty things from our Cheese Caves

Marcella Hazan’s Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking –  Our cheese empress is gifting the most authentic and authoritative word on Italian cooking. Written by one empress and given by another, we’d only be so lucky to receive this culinary wisdom.

Jamey Chelius
15th & 15th General Manager

High Mesa Chili Co. – Our New Mexican native and fearless 15th leader knows a thing or two about delicious heat. Full flavored fire roasted peppers mingle with some serious heat. World, meet our two new favorites.

Austin Shimada
Holladay General Manager

OmNom Winter Collection – Iceland comes home with you for Christmas. Three OG holiday bars from the masterminds behind OmNom are packaged into one beautiful gift that requires no wrapping whatsoever. Eat the chocolate, keep the box.

Zach Smith
Downtown Deli Manager

Espinaler Tinned Seafood (and CHIPS!) – Tinned seafood is all the rage around here, and Zach is no stranger to this food revival. He’s bringing jolly, briny, delicious cheer to his loved one, plus some seriously addictive chips to munch in between bites of fish.

Josh Broadhead
University Deli Manager

Bronze Cut Pasta and Sauce – Give the gift of tradition AND a tasty, quick meal all in one. Read more about bronze cut pasta here and learn why we’re so obsessed.

I’ve finally done it. I, Adri, of gifting procrastination and of slow wrapping skill, have completed my holiday shopping EARLY.

Try as I might, I have never before been able to finish my to-do list for gifts on time. December 22nd rolls around and I finally realize how behind I am. I run all over the city looking for gifts at picked-over stores and pop-up shops (arms flailing above my head the whole time), and I finally realize the perfect gifts have been right under my nose the whole time. At Caputo’s, of course.

Here’s what I know: Everyone likes to eat. Artisan food will always be in style. Why not let your friends and family eat the very best and most delicious treats available? Here’s your guide to the very best last-minute gifts. One gift for each of the 12 days of Christmas, a la Caputo’s:

1. Utah Chocolate – You can never go wrong gifting chocolate, especially in Utah. The Beehive State is internationally recognized as a well known hub for craft chocolate, in both consumption and production. Utah is home to five bean-to-bar chocolate companies that are putting themselves on the fine-chocolate map with their artisan bars and dedication to creating the best chocolate possible.  Give your pals a taste of Utah with this perfect collection of fine dark chocolate, all made in Utah.

2. Local Treasures Gift Collection – This is the ideal choice for the locavore in your life. We’ve hand selected seven items that are not only made locally, but they’re world-class artisan products. From bean-to-bar chocolate to smoky and savory chili oil, this is sure to please you local-lovin’ pals.

3. Tinned Seafood – It may sound strange to you today, but hear me out. Tinned seafood is about to experience a revival I would liken to the whiskey boom of the past decade or the fermented food craze we’re in the thick of now. Sustainable protein in beautiful packaging sounds like the perfect savory stocking stuffer to counter all the sweet things headed your belly’s way. (Psst… read more about this food revival here.)

4. Underberg Digestif – We’re in the middle of a craft cocktail and bitters revival here, people! Along with some truly fantastic locally made bitters, Underberg is another home bar necessity. These tiny bottles of German digestifs are the perfect spicy backbone for a cocktail or the perfect medicine for an over-filled belly after Christmas dinner. Shake into cocktails or sip solo, either will be a welcome treat to your palate. Stuff into stockings or stock your pals’ bars, but be sure to keep a bottle or two for yourself as well.

5. Caputo’s Cheese Cave Collection – Our market was founded on our love of cheese, and that love has only grown stronger with our burgeoning cave program. One cave just wasn’t cutting it for us. We need more room to to add additional wheels of cheese into their ideal aging environment (it makes them as absolutely delicious as possible, not to mention healthier). Affinage is happening every second.  Wanna know what the cave is all about, or want to share your knowledge? This is the perfect choice. Four of our favorite cave-aged cheeses come bundled and ready to eat. Hopefully they share with you!

6. Blue’s Chocolates – The country’s most inimitable filled chocolates live right here at Caputo’s. These little treasures are handmade in Berkeley, CA and are only available at Blue’s Chocolate stores and Caputo’s. Not only does Blue’s Chocolates use locally-made Solstice Chocolate, they make products that are utterly divine. One taste will convince anyone of their superiority. The good news for you is that there are plenty of box sizes to choose from. There’s a perfect size for each person depending on how naughty or nice they’ve been this year.

7. Luxardo Cherries – There’s something incredibly attractive about shaking a cocktail shaker around like a mad person…or like you know what you’re doing. If your loved ones are getting into the craft-cocktail movement and experimenting at home, this is the perfect gift. Luxardo cherries are steeped in history and are the original Maraschino cherry that those chemical red sugar-bombs are attempting to imitate.  Garnish classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan, throw into pork pan sauces, and chop into ice cream custards and cake batters. These will be the jar that empties the fastest this season.

8. Viola Colleruita Olive Oil – An Italian condiment olive oil is the ideal gift for those taking Italian food seriously. If someone on your list is looking to unleash their inner Marcella Hazan, this will become a key finishing component for nearly every dish. Think of the brightest, greenest flavors of summer and now imagine harnessing those very flavors in the dead of winter. This is the way do it. Use this oil for finishing roasted dishes, drizzle over vegetables and protein alike, and save a few drops for your gelato (I’m serious). It doesn’t get any more flavorful, or Italian, than this.

9. Caputo’s Apparel – This is our new take on good taste. We’re not just gifting with your wonderful taste in food in mind, but we’re here to outfit you and yours in Caputo swag, too! Toddlers to adults can rep the Caputo brand all winter in cozy sweatshirts and warm beanies. One for them, and one for you!

10. Caputo’s Classic Gift Collection – If you’re fond of the good ol’ days and want to share some tasty nostalgia with your pals, this is the collection for you. It’s like a shopping spree of our award winning market bundled into a gift, and ready to be unloaded into the pantry or right on into a pot for dinner. Snacks, provisions, sweet indulgence, and the makings for a tasty weeknight meal all rolled into one. What’s not to love?

11. Fresh Truffles – For the gourmand in your life. This is it. The most luxurious and ultimately wonderful gift for your foodie friend, or you can use it as the focal point of you holiday meal. We’re air-shipping truffles into our downtown market as often as is needed to ensure a fresh, aromatic supply. This friend will have just the recipe to shave these beauties over and I sure hope you get an invitation to the meal. Just the aroma knocks you off your feet, so imagine what your finished entree will do.

12. Class Certificates – Give the gift of food (or drink!) knowledge. It’s the perfect gift for a couple or a friend who might be new to either cooking or the Salt Lake valley. Pick up a certificate for the amount of the class, plus the optional beverage pairing, and let them choose the best class for their calendar and tastes. We’ll help you give the exact dollar amount or round up so your giftee can pick up a special little treat after the class. Choose from cheese or chocolate tastings, cooking classes, or whiskey classes. You read that right: whiskey classes! Remember that bucket list from SL Mag? Send them to class!

You’re still not sure what to give, and you haven’t started shopping yet? That’s OK, we won’t tell a soul. In an effort to inspire your food gifting, here’s what some of your favorite faces from Caputo’s are giving to their friends and family this year.

Don’t see your favorite monger here? Drop by before the holiday—we’re open through the afternoon of Christmas Eve—and ask them for their personal recommendations. We’re certainly not lacking in opinions around here.

So, here you have it: each of our gift picks for 2018:

Matt Caputo
President and ultimate boss-man

Crybaby Bay Leaf Bitters: These bitters are unreal, and local, to boot! Cody has created a bitters that can completely replace the musky, depth offered by a classic aromatic bitters, but does so with a unique set of flavors and ingredients. Substitute these in any classic cocktail that calls for aromatic bitters, you’ll be both completely impressed and wildly pleased.

Yelena Caputo
Vice President, and ultimatest boss who oversees said boss-man

NEW! Caputo’s Apparel: THIS IS  NOT A PROMO. Literally every. single. person. on Yelena’s  Santa’s list is getting the newest Caputo’s swag. Available for tots, kids, and adults. Everyone deserves the gift of good taste, both on their shoulders and in their bellies.

Adri Pachelli
Director of Education (and self-proclaimed office monkey)

Marcella Hazan’s Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking:
(available in stores)

If you’ve been to a class, you already know. This is the absolute authority on Italian cooking in Adri’s opinion. No other Italian cookbook is as thorough in explanations of process and history, nor as widely revered as one of the best. For those people in your life that are just getting into cooking or could use a refresher on regional Italian recipes, this is it.

Alicia Konzen
Downtown General Manager

Marou Cacao Cashew Spread:  We love anything from Marou. Their attention to flavor, detail, and overall experience are second to none. This cacao cashew spread is like a silky, mellow alternative to the classic cacao and hazelnut combo without some of the oil-y finish. Alicia is certainly gifting this, but we think she deserves one for herself, too.

Antonia Horne
Affineuse AKA maker of all tasty things from our Cheese Caves

Personal Netflix & Chill Snack Pack: No one spends more time loving on our cheeses than our fearless leader, Antonia. This collection of snacks from our Cheese Caves and award winning shelves are the perfect essentials for a cozy night in. We’re thinking a craft cocktail, cheese board, chocolate bites, and an all-night binge of all the shows we missed while playing Santa’s helper this month. Add one goodnight kiss and this is the night in of our dreams.

Jamey Chelius
15th & 15th General Manager

Pump Street Father Christmas (available in stores): Craft chocolate molded into the shape of beloved St Nick?! What’s not to love? Jamey may or may not be the king of last minute gifting, but he sure knows how to make a tasty choice.

Austin Shimada
Holladay General Manager

Bitters book (available in stores): Austin is turning his entire family into a clan of cocktail aficionados. This book is full of both great information and history, but is also a one-stop resource for our favorite classic and newfound recipes.

The One & Only Tony Caputo
Owner and man behind the magic

Seasonal fresh truffles:

Tony may be sporting the last of our winter black truffles, but fear not! The long awaited white truffles are on their way to our stores, and hopefully the next stop is your dinner tables. Your favorite Caputo’s monger has the scoop on how to best use them, but if you’re lucky, you can catch Tony himself for his favorite recipes, and new fashion accessory?

I’ve finally done it. I, Adri, of gifting procrastination and of slow wrapping skill, have completed my holiday shopping EARLY.

Try as I might, I have never before been able to finish my to-do list for gifts on time. December 22nd rolls around and I finally realize how behind I am. I run all over the city looking for gifts at picked-over stores and pop-up shops (arms flailing above my head the whole time), and I finally realize the perfect gifts have been right under my nose the whole time. At Caputo’s, of course.

Here’s what I know: Everyone likes to eat. Artisan food will always be in style. Why not let your friends and family eat the very best and most delicious treats available? Here’s your guide to the very best last-minute gifts. One gift for each of the 12 days of Christmas, a la Caputo’s:

1. Utah Chocolate – You can never go wrong gifting chocolate, especially in Utah. The Beehive State is internationally recognized as a well known hub for craft chocolate, in both consumption and production. Utah is home to five bean-to-bar chocolate companies that are putting themselves on the fine-chocolate map with their artisan bars and dedication to creating the best chocolate possible.  Give your pals a taste of Utah with this perfect collection of fine dark chocolate, all made in Utah.

2. Local Treasures Gift Collection – This is the ideal choice for the locavore in your life. We’ve hand selected seven items that are not only made locally, but they’re world-class artisan products. From bean-to-bar chocolate to smoky and savory chili oil, this is sure to please you local-lovin’ pals.

3. Scaldaferro Torrone – I’m quite sure that I would prefer torrone to diamonds, and I know I’m not the only one. This is it. The most luxurious and ultimately wonderful confection to gift to your loved one with a notorious sweet tooth. Skip the holiday candies with questionable ingredient lists. These are made by true artisans  with a list of ingredients you can count on one hand. Read more here and you’ll see why we’re so enamored with these little gems.

4. Underberg Digestif – We’re in the middle of a craft cocktail and bitters revival here, people! Along with some truly fantastic locally made bitters, Underberg is another true home bar necessity. These tiny bottles of German digestifs are the perfect spicy backbone for a cocktail or the perfect medicine for an over-filled belly after Christmas dinner. Shake into cocktails or sip solo, either will be a welcome treat to your palate. Stuff into stockings or stock your pals’ bars, but be sure to keep a bottle or two for yourself as well.

5. Caputo’s Cheese Cave Collection – Our market was founded on our love of cheese, and that love has only grown stronger with our burgeoning cave program. One cave just wasn’t cutting it for us. We need more room to to add additional wheels of cheese into their ideal aging environment (it makes them as absolutely delicious as possible, not to mention healthier). Our second cheese cave is fully stocked since last holiday season with plenty of projects and affinage happening every second.  Wanna know what the cave is all about, or want to share your knowledge? This is the perfect choice. Four of our favorite cave-aged cheeses come bundled and ready to eat. Hopefully they share with you!

6. Blue’s Chocolates – The country’s most inimitable filled chocolates live right here at Caputo’s. These little treasures are handmade in Berkeley, CA and are only available at Blue’s Chocolate stores and Caputo’s. Not only does Blue’s Chocolates use locally-made Solstice Chocolate, they make products that are utterly divine. One taste will convince anyone of their superiority. The good news for you is that there are plenty of box sizes to choose from. There’s a perfect size for each person depending on how naughty or nice they’ve been this year.

7. Luxardo Cherries – There’s something incredibly attractive about shaking a cocktail shaker around like a mad person…or like you know what you’re doing. If your loved ones are getting into the craft-cocktail movement and experimenting at home, this is the perfect gift. Luxardo cherries are steeped in history and are the original Maraschino cherry that those chemical red sugar-bombs are attempting to imitate.  Garnish classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan, throw into pork pan sauces, and chop into ice cream custards and cake batters. These will be the jar that empties the fastest this season.

8. Viola Colleruita Olive Oil – An Italian condiment olive oil is the ideal gift for those taking Italian food seriously. If someone on your list is looking to unleash their inner Marcella Hazan, this will become a key finishing component for nearly every dish. Think of the brightest, greenest flavors of summer and now imagine harnessing those very flavors in the dead of winter. This is the way do it. Use this oil for finishing roasted dishes, drizzle over vegetables and protein alike, and save a few drops for your gelato (I’m serious). It doesn’t get any more flavorful, or Italian, than this.

9. Holiday Chocolate Trio – It won’t get any easier than this. The season’s most iconic flavors, enrobed in chocolate of varying percentages. Whether your giftee is a craft chocolate geek like us or simply enjoys traditional holiday flavors, you can’t go wrong with these three bars. Pro tip: kids love this as a stocking stuffer and are most likely to share based on a sample set of one little sister.

10. Caputo’s Old School Gift Collection – If you’re fond of the good ol’ days and want to share some tasty nostalgia with your pals, this is the collection for you. It’s like a shopping spree of our award winning market bundled into a gift, and ready to be unloaded into the pantry or right on into a pot for dinner. Snacks, provisions, sweet indulgence, and the makings for a tasty weeknight meal all rolled into one. What’s not to love?

11. Fresh Truffles – For the gourmand in your life. This is it. The most luxurious and ultimately wonderful gift for your foodie friend, or you can use it as the focal point of you holiday meal. We’re air-shipping truffles into our downtown market as often as is needed to ensure a fresh, aromatic supply. This friend will have just the recipe to shave these beauties over and I sure hope you get an invitation to the meal. Just the aroma knocks you off your feet, so imagine what your finished entree will do.

12. Class Certificates – Give the gift of food (or drink!) knowledge. It’s the perfect gift for a couple or a friend who might be new to either cooking or the Salt Lake valley. Pick up a certificate for the amount of the class, plus the optional beverage pairing, and let them choose the best class for their calendar and tastes. We’ll help you give the exact dollar amount or round up so your giftee can pick up a special little treat after the class. Choose from cheese or chocolate tastings, cooking classes, or whiskey classes. You read that right: whiskey classes! Remember that bucket list from SL Mag? Send them to class!

You’re still not sure what to give, and you haven’t started shopping yet? That’s OK, we won’t tell a soul. In an effort to inspire your food gifting, here’s what some of your favorite faces from Caputo’s are giving to their friends and family this year.

Don’t see your favorite monger here? Drop by before the holiday—we’re open through the afternoon of Christmas Eve—and ask them for their personal recommendations. We’re certainly not lacking in opinions around here.

So, here you have it: each of our gift picks for 2017:

Matt Caputo
President and ultimate boss-man

Dok Dall’ Ava Prosciutto: “One bite will tell a story of why Italy gained a reputation for culinary greatness in the first place. Time, quality, skill, and a love for tradition are clearly ingredients. The taste is unrivaled by any other ham. Yeah I’m looking at you Iberico!”

Yelena Caputo
Vice President, and ultimatest boss who oversees said boss-man

Caputo’s Cheese Cave Collection: Struggling to find a gift for the one who has everything? I know I always do. And the struggle is real. I am ashamed to admit that I’ve always hesitated to give the gift of cheese; it’s awkward to wrap and present (don’t tell my husband). Enter Caputo’s Cheese Cave Sampler. Unique? Check. Specialty? Check. Local? Check. Delicious? Double check. Aged in our Cheese Caves and wrapped in the most gorgeous new threads. Accompany the cheese sampler with a couple of our matching custom posters and voila! Hard to top!

Adri Pachelli
Director of Education (and self-proclaimed office monkey)

Panettone: “There is nothing more iconic than panettone when the holidays roll around. I’ve been plenty noisy about my love for panettone before, and I don’t plan on stopping. Pro-tip; those leftover slices after dinner make an amazing french toast the next morning.”

Noel Watson
Downtown General Manager

Luxardo Cherries:  “These are such a special, out of the ordinary addition to any cocktail, cheese plate, or for use in baking. Dating back to 1821- these are a fantastic example of all we stand for in protecting classic traditionalism.”

Antonia Horne
Affineuse AKA maker of all tasty things from our cave cheeses

Trio of unusual vinegar:

“This year I’m expanding my loved ones’ vinegar libraries beyond the Balsamic I usually give. The Acetum Mellis Mead vinegar is as bright and crisp as a ray of sunshine, which is perfect for the cold winter months. The Arvum Moscatel Sherry vinegar is sweet and luxurious, but still delicate. It’s an amazing alternative to Balsamic. And Leonardi Saba is rich and unctuous, perfect for dessert or savory dishes.”

Jamey Chelius
15th & 15th General Manager

Dick Taylor Drinking Chocolate: “I can stuff kid and adult stockings alike with this drinking chocolate. The package doesn’t even need wrapping. Kids can stir into warm milk and enjoy, adults simply need to add a dram of their favorite spirit for the perfect grown up hot beverage.”

Austin Shimada
Holladay General Manager

Blue’s Chocolates seasonal flavors: “I walked in as Sondra was unpacking the first seasonal flavors this month. Hard cider, spiked eggnog, marzipan, and cardamom are just a few of the available and seasonally perfect options to choose from. I’m buying a range of box size for a range of friends and family. I know every single one of them will enjoy them as much as I do. ”

Sean Rorke
University General Manager

Mister Bitters Fig & Cardamom: “Because whiskey cocktails.”

The One & Only Tony Caputo
Owner and man behind the magic

“Something that’s about to expire from the half off rack”

He’s not wrong though, friends. Each location has a unique and delicious selection of items on the half-off shelves that are more than worthy of a good belly and happy home. Plus, what’s not to love at half off?

You know it’s gifting crunch time, we know it too. You’re still not sure what to give, and you haven’t started shopping yet? That’s OK, we won’t tell. Here’s what some of your favorite faces from Caputo’s are giving to their friends and family this year to serve as gifting inspiration.

Don’t see your favorite monger here? Drop by before the holiday—we’re open through the afternoon of Christmas Eve—and ask them for their personal recommendations. We’re certainly never lacking in opinions around here.

So, here you have it: each of our gift picks for 2016:

Matt Caputo
President and residing ulitmate boss-man

Scaldaferro Torrone – Scaldaferro is the perfect nexus of heirloom ingredients and outlier in skill. No other nougat on Earth will taste like this. In my somewhat expansive nougat experience, it is the best out there. With our modern day food system continuously degrading what people are willing to pay for food, it is a treasure that will likely be lost to history some day. I am giving Scaldaferro as a gift, because it is a perfect example what Caputo’s is trying to achieve. We fight to protect these traditional foods by sharing our passion for them with our friends, family, and customers.

Yelena Caputo
VP and ultimatest boss who oversees said boss-man

Pump Street Bakery Father Christmas – Is there anything better than a chocolate figurine of Saint Nick stuffed into your stocking on Christmas morning. There is – said Saint Nick made out of really, really good chocolate. Father Christmas is hand poured 60% dark milk chocolate from HCP protected Ecuador cacao beans. This is one I’ll be gifting both family and friends this season. The best part – Father Christmas is a whopping $8.99!

Adri Pachelli
Director of Education and expert gift wrapper

Holiday Chocolate Trio – I know exactly how much time went in to procuring the selection for all of our gift collections this year because I got to help! This collection is my favorite, it’s a taste of each holiday flavor we all know and love, but each is encased in chocolate. Who says no to something like this?! Scrooge, that’s who. Unless you’re searching for a Scrooge gift, this is perfect for stuffing individually into stockings or gifting bundled in adorable, festive gift wrap.

Mason Mostoller
Downtown Deli Manager and widely regarded happiest deli elf

Royal Rose Naughty or Nice Moscow Mule Duo – Moscow Mule’s gained their popularity in the 50’s and 60’s. Traditionally served with Vodka and ginger beer in a copper mug, this drink has become a regularly sought after item in most drinking establishments. Royal Rose’s Naughty or Nice Moscow Mule kit adds a twist to the mix in the “Naughty” mixer with the addition of fresh jalapeno peppers. I chose to gift this to my Mother because she has always been interested in Moscow Mules and the culture surrounding the drink.

Austin Shimada
Holladay General Manager and jolliest smiler

Utah Craft Chocolate Collection – What’s better than a bar of chocolate? A whole crate of local chocolates. Our local chocolate crate is a great way to introduce someone into the world of fine chocolate. I will be gifting our local chocolate crate to not only show my love for chocolate but also to support small local companies that strive to do such an amazing job.

Sean Rorke
University Deli Manager and avid hat wearer

Fee Brother’s Grapefruit Bitters – I’ll take a hefty dose of citrus any way I can get it in these cold winter months, why not incorporate it into cocktails?! I’ll be adding to gin & tonics at gatherings all season, but these make for a great gift for anyone interested in starting a home bar.

Antonia Horne
Affineuse and general cheese whisperer

The Silver Spoon cookbook – available at our Downtown location

The Silver Spoon is an elegant book brimming with recipes for classical Italian dishes, accompanied by striking photos. There is a recipe for practically any Italian ingredient you can think of, as well as many that may be unfamiliar. The recipes are straightforward and ingredient-focused, and I find this book inspiring when I want to get out of my comfort zone and try something new. If you love a food-nerd, you can not go wrong with this book. The Silver Spoon is a great investment in the future of your table and tastebuds!

Fall is a special time in the life cycle of plant life. Perennials gently nestle into hibernation while we kiss some of our favorite sweet annual plants goodbye. While it feels slightly sad, this is my favorite time for food as we move from light, crisp flavors to bigger, funky, fermenty ones.

Testun al Foglie di Castagno embodies the best of this cooling season. Cow, sheep, and goat milks are blended into large wheels and aged over a year in the Cuneo region of Piedmont by Beppino Occelli. We carry a handful of selections from this lovely artisan, but this one in particular has stolen my heart. The wheels are wrapped in freshly plucked chestnut leaves and left to continue its year-long aging journey. The result is a sweet, complex paste tinged brown by the oxidized plant matter it’s been snuggled into. Testun’s paste is both creamy and crunchy from crystallized bits of tyrosine while the aroma smells just like the bottom of the leaf pile waiting for you in your back yard. Don’t believe. Go on, dive in there and give it a whiff.

If you’re really lucky, you’ll be graced with small flecks of naturally ocurring blue mold growing just beneath the surface of the cheese. I live for these bits and will wait days for even a hint of blue. This added flavor tips the scales for flavor right up toward transcendence.

When you’re done diving into your leaves, treat yourself to a this lovely cheese. Pair it with bold, tannic red wines, whiskey, or Epic’s Smoked & Oaked beer, and a fireplace. This is the perfect time to enjoy this cheese and the season wanes into winter.