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Hey Y'all, I wanted to put together a gift guide for those looking for the perfect gifts for the holidays! We'll start with local shops here in town and then focus on specific food items, food classes and local artists!
Local Shops
Here is a small map for the shops I will be talking about
The Paper+Craft Pantry
A lovely stationary and craft store that in Austin, TX. They have lots of small gifts and unique high quality stationary for sale.
They are also selling a special limited time 2023 Advent Calendar for 100 $ (200 $ retail worth)
Another great gift idea is their monthly subscription box 55$ with 6-12 curated, high quality stationery and paper products with at least 1 writing utensil.
Take Heart
Take Heart is a lovely boutique located in East Austin. From their website "'take heart' is a boutique located in East Austin which reflects my love of special and thoughtfully designed objects for the home and person. The shop showcases local and US artists, as well as a selection of international designers, with an emphasis on Japanese design. We believe in the importance of supporting small businesses and artists. We value the energy and craftsmanship put into the items we carry in our shop and our relationship with the makers/designers." If you're in search of unique and artisan made home goods, this is your spot. They also have a large selection of pottery and children's toys.
Parker and Scott
Parker and Scott is one of my favorite gift shops in town! What I love about Parker and Scott is they also work with Bonjour Brigadeiro to do preorders! From their website "At Parker and Scott, we believe that shopping can be both enjoyable and eco-friendly. Our carefully curated selection of products offers a little bit of everything, from toys and children’s books to kitchen storage products, candles, books, apothecary items, and snacks. We stock our shelves with items that are not only better for the earth but also support local and women-owned brands". Expect to find lots of hard to find food products, local goods, and even a source for fresh flowers!
Terra Toys
Terra toys is a beloved Austin Gem that has been in business since 1978. They used to be known for their wooden hand carved toys now they stock all kinds of gifts perfect for kids or adults in my opinion. Here is their website.
Toy Joy
From their website "Toy Joy is a world famous toy store for all ages! We've been featured in Rolling Stone, Mashable, and named a Top 10 Toy Store in the world by USA Today, Yahoo, Tripadvisor, Fatherly, Timeout and countless other publications. Since 1987, Toy Joy has been on a mission to prove that toys can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds." They are my goto spot for quirky toys, Studio Ghibli and Sanrio products! They also have a neat ornament collection!
Paper Work
Formerly Parts and Labour, They are a shop seeking indie makers of all shades + identities and a shop for art prints/ original works/ jewelry/ tees + more! This is a great spot if you're looking for art prints and clothing specifically!
Tiny Grocer
Do you have a foodie in your life that only wants food as gifts? Tiny Grocer is your spot. With a large selection of artisan grocery items, I think they might have a better selection than Central Market. They also have various housewares and gifts and all the tinned fish you can think of. Here is their website.
Ten Thousand Villages of Austin
Okay no one ever talks about it but this spot is perfect for that friend that likes boho and artisan goods. From their website "Ten Thousand Villages is a non profit fair trade store that puts people and planet first. We are committed to ethical practices in ensuring a fair living wage in safe working conditions, caring for the Earth, investing in partnerships that empower women and their communities and celebrating craft and culture."
Calvins
This is the spot if you're looking for something extra special for Christmas. They specialize in fine jewelry and engagement rings. They have been open in Austin for 25 years! I personally got my engagement ring here and I love it! Excellent prices for jewelry in my opinion. This is their website.
Amanda Deer Jewelry
Another alternative for jewelry lovers. They also have permanent jewelry options. I like to think they are like the Austin version of Mejuri but more affordable. The jewelry here is dainty and simple. Here is their website.
Love Weld
From their website "Love Weld permanent jewelry offers 14k gold fine jewelry that is seamless and beautiful. Love Weld is proud to be a pioneer and leader of permanent jewelry". I have a bracelet from Love Weld that has been going strong for about 8 months without any issues. The bracelets are tarnish proof and can be removed by them or you can cut them off with scissors.
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
The Blue Genie art bazaar is iconic in Austin. This year it'll be open November 17th. From their website "the Bazaar features the handmade, unique work of over 200 artists, whom we select from a talented pool of more than 400 applicants each year." You'll find mainly trinkets, jewelry, and art at this exhibit. I do the majority of my gift shopping here every year!
Made In
Made In is extremely popular with chefs in Austin, TX and around the US. They have a focus on chef made cookware at affordable prices. I own a couple of pans and knives from them and I love them! They have an two Austin based shops on South Congress and the Domain and plenty of online coupon codes. From their website "we started Made In to bring restaurant-quality, performance kitchenware to home cooks around the world."
East Austin Succulents
In case there's any plant lovers out there. East Austin Succulent is the perfect spot to get a plant gift. The succulents and cactuses tend to be more hardy and they have the cutest selection of pots and plants. They even pot the plant for 5 dollars. Here is their IG.
The Roommate Collective
This is a shop right next to Paper craft Pantry. They specialize in gifts and inside you'll find 3 roommates Little Note Shop, Have a Nice Day, and Jollie Ollie Designs. You'll find local art, children items, and accessories! Here is their website!
Asahi Imports
From their website "Asahi Imports is Austin’s only exclusively Japanese market. Find everyday Japanese food items, specialty ingredients, fun snacks and sweets, sake and Japanese beers, household goods, origami, unique gifts and more. Shop Asahi for all of your Japanese grocery needs!" I recommend getting your love one a giftcard or shopping for some hard to find Japanese goods for them! Here is their instagram.
Okasan
A vintage shop in town selling goods from local artists and plenty of vintage goods! You can purchase goods from some of my favorite local artists here in town! Here is their instagram.
7th Street Candle
A store specializing in candles! They also sell small gifts. From their website "Our candles are carefully crafted in small batches with an intention: to lift your spirit. We take pride in using herbs & botanicals grown naturally in Texas soil."
Anderson's Coffee
Another Austin institution, Anderson Coffee has been around since 1972. Inside you'll find artful mugs and teacups and plenty of coffee. Here is their website.
Blue Elephant
Blue elephant is a spot specializing in apparel, jewelry, hair, makeup, and more. It's a great spot to check out for gifts! From their website "handpicked selection of unique goods. Shop indie and designer apparel, trendy accessories, statement jewelry and collections of handmade apparel in the same space as upscale cosmetics, luxury apothecary brands, and an assortment of playful novelty and gift items."
Clover + Maven
A new gift shop focusing on artisan goods from artists. From their website "amazing space full of women artists, makers and entrepreneurs!" You'll find art, jewelry, and more! It's located near Springdale General so plenty of gift shops to explore!
Tanuki Games
This wonderful little shop specializes in board games. From their website " We strive to offer the best selection, prices, and service in a welcoming, family friendly environment. We have an excellent selection of board games, role-playing games, and trading card games, many of which are rare imports from around the world. We sell games you will not find anywhere else in the United States!"
Cooking Class Gifts
Antonelli's Cheese Class
If your loved one is a foodie, this class is an absolute must! They have quite a few options. I like the Goat tour one and the date night classes. Here is their website.
Uroko Sushi Making Class
I Love Uroko! Their sister concept Tonari also features sushi classes. They also have udon classes. They also have make your own kokodamas classes. This is an excellent date night or craft night idea for loved ones! Book here.
KG BBQ Brisket Class
KG BBQ makes amazing bbq in Austin, TX. He also now offers cooking classes. Book here.
My Kitchen Must Haves
Donabe Pot From Toiro
This is my go to Donabe pot I use. I love my Donabe, It makes perfectly cooked fluffy rice. I recommend getting the 3 cup Kamado San but you can also get the 5 cup if you have a large family. You can purchase on this website .
Hedley and Bennett
This is my goto spot for quality aprons. The founder of this company actually used to make aprons by hand! From their website "H&B started in a professional kitchen out of the need for something better; an apron developed hand in hand with insanely talented, obsessive chefs; relentlessly refined to be not just an apron, but the perfect companion to any cooking adventure". I love her aprons and use mine daily.
Ooni Pizza Oven
I personally have a Ooni Koda 16 inch and I love it! It's gas powered and the essentials are a laser thermometer, a pizza peel, and a pizza turner. I can pump out artisan style pizza in minutes and I absolutely love it. Their cheapest ovens start around 300 USD and there is a learning curve but it's so worth it! I do make commission for if you use my link. Purchase ooni Koda 16 inch here.
Ooni is having a Black Friday Sale until November 28th.
FYRA 12 - 30% OFF in ALL regions.
KODA 16 - 20% OFF in ALL regions
KODA 12 - 20% OFF in ALL regions
KARU 16 - 20% OFF in ALL regions
ACCESSORIES - up to 30% OFF
MERCHANDISE* - up to 50% OFF
Balmuda Toaster Oven
From their website "BALMUDA The Toaster features a revolutionary technology that combines steam with precise heat control. Its five unique heat modes are designed to bring out the best in any dish." I personally can vouch that it makes the best toast I've ever eaten. I use it every day. It toasts my bread perfectly and I can bring stale croissants back to life in about 2-3 minutes. It's easy to clean and relatively small on my counter. It's mainly worth it if you eat lots of bread and pastries!
Le Creuset Dutch Oven
My Large Dutch oven is the greatest thing my Husband has ever gifted me. Seriously, it's so versatile and large and cooks everything so perfectly. I make curries, stews, and even roast chicken in my dutch oven. This is a family heirloom to me and I plan to keep it forever and pass it down. It's easy to wash too. This is an extra special Christmas gift in my opinion. You can purchase here.
Fredericks and Mae Cutting Board
This is my favorite cutting board I own. I own two! I've tried purchasing the cheap cutting board from Amazon and the fancy wood ones from local artists but my favorite ones are the thick cutting boards from Fredericks and Mae. Not only are they thick and sturdy but they're so easy to clean and I like how the plastic is super thick and durable. They're dish washer safe and also so beautiful and make wonderful gifts in my opinion. Not cheap but so worth it! You can purchase here.
Japanese Plates and Bowls from Korin
Have you ever wondered where to get those bowls that Ramen Tatsuya and all the ramen shops use? Here's the answer. I recommend ordering with some friends and splitting shipping. The bowls I have from here are beautiful! Here is their website.
Knives from Cangshan Cutlery
Cangshan Cutlery Company is based out in Georgetown, Texas. Their knives were are Austin Food and Wine and I was impressed by the quality of the knives I tried out. Here is a 25% off coupon code from Austin Food and Wine: AFWF25. You can purchase them here.
Food Item Gift Recommendations
The Tinned Fish Serving Set from Fish Wife
This Tinned Fish set from Fish Wife is a must for tinned fish lovers. You get 3 fish tins, tinned fish utensil, and 1 tinned fish board from Fredericks and Mae! You can purchase it here.
Fly By Jing Chili Crisp
Fly By Jing is my favorite Chili crisp. I know it's basic but I like it more than the Lan gao ma brand. I recommend getting the extra spicy one. The prices range depending on which one you order but they have gift sets too. You can find Fly by Jing at Parker and Scott, Whole Foods, Target or Sprouts. Or here on their website.
The Mitt Kit - limited edition set from Graza
A great item for food lovers, the olive oil is great for drizzling on salads, potatoes, really anything you can think of! Even icecream. You can purchase here.
Confituras Preserves & Provisions Box
A subscription service from local spot Confituras. I absolutely love their jams and condiments. From their website "When you become a member of the new Confituras Preserves & Provisions Box, you’ll receive a rotating assortment of our acclaimed homemade jams, baked goods, seasonal produce, & other gourmet artisanal items from our Austin bakery." It's either 60 or 80 dollars (include bouquet). Local Pick-Up or Local Austin Delivery (+$15). You can purchase here.
Yellow Bird Sauce Variety Pack
My favorite Hot sauce brand! I love their hot sauces and swear by their habanero one and the sriracha. A perfect gift to introduce people to Austin food. They can be found in HEB or Sprouts. They are local to Austin too! You can purchase here.
Royce Chocolate Gift Set
My goto chocolate brand. I love Royce and always go find them in different cities. I love their Nama chocolate, chocolate coated potato chips, and Petit Kurumaro Chocolat. You can find a location in Houston. Otherwise you can purchase on their website! They're doing free shipping for orders above 69.99 and you get a free gift!
Lammes Candies
Lammes Candies is an Austin Staple. Around since 1885. Their candies are an absolute must for any Austin Gift Basket They have multiple locations in Austin but here is their website.
The Sourdough Project
These crackers make excellent gifts and have a long shelf life. I also so happen to have a coupon code for 15% off- AMANDA15. If you buy 6 boxes you get free shipping and basically a free box with the code. Delivery is super fast too! They're my favorite crackers in the whole world. You can purchase here. You can also find them at Whole Foods, Central Market, Wheatsville, and more.
My Favorite Local Artists
Lian Soy
Lian Soy specializes in making the cutest lighters on the planet! From Eggs to Peanuts, these are so cute and perfect as stocking stuffers. You can find her at Okasan or various farmers markets in town. Find her IG here with updated markets and products. She also has a website here.
First Breath Shop
First Breath Shop specializes in making candles. They are made from soy and beeswax and scented with essential oils. Also pet Friendly! From their website "We are a young couple who live in Austin, TX. Both of us have our day jobs in design field, during our casual time, we developed our passion in candle making. Since winter of 2021, we have sold more than 1000 candles in many local pop-up markets" Follow them here for local markets and pop ups. You can also purchase here.
Kaiju Cut and Sew
From his website "At Kaiju Cut and Sew everything is made by hand. Leathers are ethically sourced and textiles are imported from Japan". He specializes in Japanese leather goods and handcrafted bags. You can find his goods at various shops around Austin including but not limited to Parker and Scott, Okasan, Paper Work and more. Here is his IG!
Keiko Hayner
A local artist here in town selling prints and wares with her artwork. You can find her at various pop ups around town. Here is her website. Here is her IG! You can typically find her art at the Blue Genie Bazaar, Paper Work and Okasan.
Ester Z Handmade
Ester Z is one of my favorite artists in town. She makes crochet plushies and the cutest crochet accessories! You can find her at Parker and Scott and various markets across town. She plans to be at the Blue Genie Bazaar and the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar this year. Here is her website. Follow her here!
Peelander Yellow
Peelander is an Austin icon! I highly recommend securing one of his pieces if you can. They're quirky and distinct and instantly recognized as Austin based. He does art pop ups around Austin. You can purchase his artwork here.
Tak Tak Goods
I absolutely love her glassware and vases. Quirky and adorable. Another perfect Gift for the holidays! You can typically find her products at the Blue Genie Art Bazaar, Ghost Pepper Glass or on her website. You can do free pick up.
