Whether you’re showing up for a last-minute dinner invite, a holiday gathering, or a casual get-together that somehow turned into the event of the season, finding the right host gift can feel surprisingly high-pressure. Flowers are fleeting. Wine can be hit or miss. And nobody wants to arrive empty-handed.
That’s where we come in.
This year, the WanderEater editors pulled together a curated list of tried, tested, and genuinely loved gifts we’d happily bring into any home — thoughtful, elevated, and actually useful. Every pick comes in under $200, feels considered rather than generic, and works across different hosting styles, from the cocktail-obsessed entertainer to the cozy dinner-party pro.
Think of this as your foolproof guide to arriving prepared — and remembered.
Editor-approved gifts for the ultimate hostess and hosts in your life this holiday season:
In no particular order.
1. Curated foodie gift baskets (or build-your-own)
If there’s one thing hosts universally appreciate, it’s great food they didn’t have to make themselves. Grocery stores like Farm Boy, have ready-made holiday gift baskets — often conveniently stocked near the cash — are an easy win, filled with sweet and savoury crowd-pleasers.
Want to personalize it? Build your own with olives, crackers, chocolate, nuts, preserves, or seasonal snacks for a more bespoke touch. It’s thoughtful, practical, and always appreciated.
Why it works: Zero guesswork, endlessly flexible, and guaranteed to get used.
2. A beautiful decanter or everyday carafe
A well-designed decanter (or even a minimalist carafe) instantly elevates a table — whether it’s holding wine, water, or a batch cocktail. It’s one of those pieces hosts rarely buy for themselves but love receiving.
Look for clean lines, weighted glass, and timeless shapes that feel at home in both casual and more formal settings. William Ashley, William Sonoma and Crate & Barrel have some great options under $200.
Why it works: Functional, decorative, and perfect for repeat hosting moments.
3. A cocktail book that actually gets used
Not all cocktail books are created equal. The best ones strike a balance between inspiration and accessibility — recipes that feel elevated but not intimidating.
For the Love of Cocktails is a standout for exactly that reason, offering drinks for any occasion without requiring a professional bar setup. It pairs beautifully with a bottle or bar accessory if you want to build out the gift.
Why it works: Entertaining-forward, approachable, and ideal for hosts who love to mix things up.
4. Cocktail recipe cards or a cocktail deck
For a lighter, more playful option, cocktail recipe cards or decks are a fun alternative to a full book. Pull a card, make the drink, repeat — it’s interactive, low-pressure, and perfect for spontaneous hosting.
They’re especially great for hosts who already have a solid bar setup and enjoy experimenting without committing to a full recipe book.
Why it works: Fun, giftable, and perfect for social settings. Pair it with a bottle of their favourite spirit, et voila!
5. Candles that set the mood (without overpowering)
A great candle is a hosting essential — but the key is choosing one that’s warm and inviting, not overwhelming. Think soft woods, subtle spice, gentle citrus, or clean linen notes.
The best candles enhance the atmosphere without competing with food, drinks, or conversation. Loewe has a great assortment of candles even one thats Palo Santo scented, in their iconic design, that also brings a little extra good juju. 😉
Why it works: Universally loved and instantly transforms a space.
6. Linen napkins or a chic table runner
Hosting gifts don’t have to live in the kitchen. Linen napkins or a neutral table runner add instant polish to any table and feel far more personal than disposable paper goods.
Stick to classic tones — cream, soft grey, muted stripes — for maximum versatility. For something a little more affordable, H&M Home has some great options, William Sonoma has a larger more premium assortment.
Why it works: Reusable, elevated, and makes everyday dinners feel special.
7. A proper cheese board (with knives)
A solid cheese board is a hosting hero. Whether it’s wood, marble, or a mixed material design, it’s the kind of piece that comes out again and again — for dinner parties, casual drinks, or last-minute snacks.
Bonus points if it includes a small knife set or serving tools.
Why it works: Practical, stylish, and perfect for entertainers of all kinds.
8. Olive oil and finishing salt duo
For food-forward hosts, pantry upgrades make some of the best gifts. A quality olive oil paired with a flaky finishing salt instantly elevates everyday cooking — and feels indulgent without being excessive.
It’s the kind of gift that quietly improves everything from salads to grilled vegetables to pasta nights. Eataly has some excellent options but so does Farm Boy and other premium grocery stores near you.
Why it works: Consumable, elevated, and deeply practical.
9. A curated snack spread upgrade
Instead of one large item, consider assembling a mini snack spread — think fancy chips, artisanal chocolate, nuts, crackers, and a jar of something special. It feels intentional and indulgent without being over the top. In the GTA Peter & Pauls has some great options. Otherwise Michael’s sells some cute baskets and you can curate from Whole Foods Market or any other premium grocery store.
Perfect for hosts who love grazing boards and casual entertaining.
Why it works: Shareable, fun, and guaranteed to disappear quickly.
10. A hard-to-find bottle (when available)
If you know the host enjoys spirits, a wine, bubbly or their spirit of choice bottle that’s not always easy to find instantly feels special. Limited-run or cult-favourite bottles — when they pop up — make excellent gifts because they signal thoughtfulness and effort.
Just be sure it fits their taste profile.
Why it works: Memorable, gift-worthy, and conversation-starting.
Because showing up…well, matters
The best host gifts don’t scream “last minute.” They feel intentional, useful, and aligned with how people actually entertain today. These editor-approved picks hit that sweet spot — elevated without being precious, thoughtful without being complicated.
Show up with one of these, and you’re guaranteed an invite back. 😉
Looking for more WanderEater-approved food, drink, and travel inspiration? We’ve got you covered.
