Culinary curator Antoine Whitfield shares his favorite kitchen gifts from Macy’s—tools that make cooking easier, tastier, and a whole lot more fun.
When it comes to finding the perfect gift for the person who loves to cook, Antoine Whitfield knows it’s all about balance—style, function, and that “I’ll actually use this” factor. His curated gift guide hits every note, from everyday essentials to chef-worthy showstoppers. These are pieces that make you want to get in the kitchen. Whether you’re baking, grilling, or making pizza from scratch, they just make the experience better.
His Picks
Essential cookware and appliances
GreenPan Valencia Pro Healthy Ceramic Nonstick Frypan Set For Antoine, the GreenPan Valencia Pro Healthy Ceramic Nonstick Frypan Set is a non-negotiable. “You can never ever go wrong with GreenPan,” he insists. The trio of frypans (8", 9.5", and 11") can handle anything from breakfast eggs to seared salmon. Their PFAS-free ceramic coating and durable design mean they’ll last for years—something every home chef appreciates. Shop now
Cuisinart TOA-70 Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill And when it comes to multitasking appliances, Antoine swears by the Cuisinart TOA-70 Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill. “The toaster oven and grill combo is familiar and user-friendly,” he says. It’s perfect for anyone who wants that crispy air-fry texture without fussing over a dozen different settings. It’s the kind of gadget that quietly earns MVP status on your countertop. Shop now
Baking must-haves
KitchenAid Stand Mixer Of course, no kitchen is complete without a KitchenAid Stand Mixer—especially during “holiday cake” season. “This mixer is excellent for baking around the holidays,” Antoine says. It’s powerful, sturdy, and it inspires people to try new recipes. Shop now
KitchenAid Variable-Speed Hand Blender For smaller projects, he reaches for the KitchenAid Variable-Speed Hand Blender, which he calls his go-to “for quick baking needs.” Together, they’re a dynamic duo—proof that even classic tools can feel exciting again. Shop now
Practical kitchen utensils
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Magnetic Measuring Spoons Even the smallest tools, Antoine notes, can make a difference. The OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Magnetic Measuring Spoons are “long lasting and durable,” and their magnetic design means no more digging for the right size mid-recipe. Shop now
Cole & Mason Derwent Forest Wood Salt & Pepper Mill Gift Set The Cole & Mason Derwent Forest Wood Salt & Pepper Mill Gift Set, meanwhile, adds a touch of elegance to the table. “The best gift in the world,” Antoine says, “is new shakers for your kitchen.” Shop now
Grilling and specialty cooking
Solo Stove Pi Prime Stainless Steel Gas Pizza Oven If your giftee is all about pizza night, Antoine’s pick is the Solo Stove Pi Prime Stainless Steel Gas Pizza Oven. “It’s the ability to produce superior pizza in a short amount of time that makes it special,” he explains. With high heat and gas power, it delivers that wood-fired flavor and crispy crust—minus the learning curve. Shop now
Bella 10" x 20" Griddle with Warming Tray The Bella 10" x 20" Griddle with Warming Tray—a crowd-pleaser for brunch lovers. “The large cooking surface lets you make multiple items at once,” Antoine says. It’s great for pancakes, bacon, and eggs — all the good stuff. Shop now
Cuisinart Deluxe Stainless-Steel 14-Piece Grill Set Finally, for those who love to cook (and eat) outdoors, Antoine suggests the Cuisinart Deluxe Stainless-Steel 14-Piece Grill Set—“a wonderful set that’s durable and resistant to rust,” he says. Shop now
ALVA Nori Enameled Cast Iron Mortar and Pestle And for a more artisanal touch, the ALVA Nori Enameled Cast Iron Mortar and Pestle offers both beauty and utility. “It has a natural non-stick surface and gives even, high-quality heat,” Antoine explains, making it ideal for grinding herbs or spices. Shop now
