Looking for the perfect present with a touch of la dolce vita? Whether you're shopping for a foodie, a design lover, or just someone who dreams of Amalfi sunsets, this list has you covered. Here's your cheat sheet for stylish, delicious, and thoughtful gifts that bring a slice of Italy home. Prices are approximate; check the links for the most accurate details.
1. Starward Panettone Whisky
*Price: $99 AUD*
A decadent twist on the classic holiday treat, this panettone is infused with Starward whisky and loaded with rich flavours. Perfect for gifting or as a luxurious centerpiece for Christmas dessert.
2. *Mangia* by Maria Pasquale
*Price: $49.99 AUD*
This book is a love letter to Italian food, culture, and tradition. A great read for anyone who enjoys cooking or eating (so, everyone).
3. Baba al Rhum by Strega Alberti
*Price: $29.90*
Rum Baba but not as you know it! Strega Albertiβs humble roots stretch back to 1860 in Benevento where wine merchant, Giuseppe Alberti, together with his apothecarist father, formulated a herbal-based liqueur made up of a bouquet of 70 elements. The name derives from the myth of the Witches of Benevento and the love potion legends: Strega Liqueur. Add a scoop of ice cream and dessert is done!
4. Sicilian Citrus Salt & Pepper Shakers by Gigi & Tom
*Price: $15.96 AUD*
These playful, citrus-shaped shakers add a pop of fun and flavour to the table. A quirky yet practical gift for any foodie.
5. The Sunday Pomodori Napkin by Good Juju
*Price: $24.99 AUD*
These tomato-themed napkins are the cutest addition to any kitchen or picnic setup.
6. Sicilian Moor Head Vase from Cristina Toscano
*Price: Varies so message Cristina via IG (sheβs super lovely and responsive) or head in-store*
An iconic piece of Sicilian decor made in Italy. This handcrafted ceramic vase doubles as a statement piece and a conversation starter.
7. Brera Milano Panettone
*Price: ~$45
Years later and this is still my favourite commercial panettone. Get one while you can - I sold them out early last year!
8. Bodrato Boero Bella di Garbagna Chocolates
*Price: $35 AUD*
Indulge in these cherry-filled chocolatesβluxurious, boozy, and perfect for special occasions.
9. *La Dolce Vita* Recipe Journal by Papier
*Price: $64 AUD*
This beautifully designed recipe notebook is the perfect spot for jotting down all your favourite meals. Plus it can be personalised with your name making it extra special for gift-giving season.
10. Instant Risotto with Saffron by Piave Imports
*Price: $12 AUD*
Quick, easy, and utterly delicious. This saffron risotto, traditional to the central north of Italy, makes gourmet dining achievable in minutes. If saffron isnβt your thing, donβt worry - there are lots of flavours to choose from.
11. Zonzo Estate Pistachio Spritz
*Price: $20 AUD*
Light, fizzy, and packed with pistachio flavour, this spritz is subtle summer in a bottle.
12. Pomodoro Soy Wax Candle by Che Sara
*Price: $44.95 AUD*
Bring the aroma of sun-ripened tomatoes into your home with this unique, cozy candle. They have also extended a discount code for you all to receive 25% off storewide with the code MEL25.
*Not at affiliate code, just there if youβd like to use it :)
13. Olasagasti Cantabrian Anchovies
*Price: $19.95 AUD*
These are the best anchovies youβll ever eat. Happy to be quoted on that.
[View it here] or head to Simon Johnson in Melbourne where they sell the same premium variety βSerie Oroβ of Ortiz anchovies in a huge 450g tin (this was the best gift I ever got I swear!)
14. Vietri Amalfitana Splatter Salad Plate
*Price: $94 AUD*
This orange-splattered plate is equal parts art and function, perfect for serving salads or antipasti in style. Vietri make all different sizes, finishes and colours so youβll be hard-pressed to choose just one!
15. Crema di Pistacchio by Chef Joey D
*Price: $24.95 AUD*
This creamy pistachio spread is heavenly on toast, pastries, or straight off the spoon (no judgment). Plus itβs completely plant-based without any milk powder, but stills gives that earthy creaminess we all love in a pistachio cream.
16. *Spanner Crab* Chopping Board by Pinchy Products
*Price: $80 AUD*
If I had a dollar for every time someone has wanted to know where my chopping boards are from, Iβd be a very rich lady by now! These boards are absolutely gorgeous and beautifully functional, and as with everything I own, dishwasher safe.
17. Nonna's Grocer Candle
*Price: $59 AUD*
These fruit-and-veg-shaped candles are almost too pretty to burn.
18. *Painted Recipes* by Sonny Studio
*Price: $200 AUD*
Give the gift of a one-of-a-kind custom artwork immortalising your loved oneβs favourite recipes. The custom watercolour also comes with a beautifully handwritten recipe card so you can treasure a hard-copy of that recipe forever.
19. Il Mediterraneo Plate Set by Fenton & Fenton
*Price: $150 AUD*
These vibrant, hand-painted plates transport you straight to the Mediterranean. They're perfect for hosting or simply brightening up everyday dining.
20. Ravioli Spoon Rest by Hey Fred via Matt Blatt
*Price: $35 AUD*
This adorable spoon rest, shaped like a ravioli, keeps your bench clean and looks super cute! Plus itβs dish-washable.
Extra affiliate discount code: if comfy underwear is your thing, the Nala team have provided my followers with the highest discount theyβve ever done, 35% everything, with the code MEL5. Valid until December 2nd 2024.
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From foodies to aesthetes, these gifts will wow anyone on your list. Happy shoppingβand even happier gifting! π