I started baking sourdough loaves and weekend pastries at home a few years ago, and I learned the hard way that consistent results come down to accurate digital scales, heavy cast iron that traps steam, and reliable prep tools. Whether you are feeding your very first sourdough starter or upgrading your stand mixer and sheet pans for holiday baking, these are the exact tools I reach for in my kitchen every single week. Let me know in the comments what you love baking most!
(This list contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.)
When I started to help people with holistic nutrition, most would ask me for better alternatives to their foods. The truth is, it's best to avoid packaged foods, but sometimes we have to, due to our busy lifestyle. These are the “better” things I like to keep in my kitchen.
Welcome to my page, my goal is to help my fellow foodies find the best spots in Colorado Springs! I personally try out restaurants and make honest suggestions and recommendations.
Every batch of sugar cookies came out looking like a topographic map. Some thin and burnt, others thick and raw in the middle. If you've ever rage-quit decorating because your cookies baked unevenly, this is the lineup that fixed it for me. Took two holiday seasons of trial and error so you can skip straight to the part where your cookies actually look like the Pinterest photo.
From that first sip of bold, smooth coffee to the ultimate breakfast burrito that hits all the right spots—and yes, pizza that’s perfect whether it’s noon or midnight—this list rounds up the best bites and brews in town. Whether you're fueling up for the day, grabbing a laid-back lunch, or diving into cheesy comfort food, these spots serve flavor, fast. Consider it your must-try checklist for delicious eats, morning to night.
SGV or San Gabriel Valley in SoCal is home to many boba and tea shops. With so many great options to choose from, I’ve rounded up some of my favorites I’ve tried over MANY years. I’ve included old and new spots for you to explore!
Currently living on the board of Rochester Hills and Troy, here is everywhere I would put in my rotation if I had infinite funds and no inspiration to cook!
My little corner of all things cozy and autumn-inspired. From the foods and drinks I’m craving this season, to fun fall activities, must-have skincare, and my go-to cozy fashion staples. Think of it as a mix of comfort, warmth, and a little bit of pumpkin spice magic ✨
whether you're visiting for a week or a weekend, I've compiled all of my favorite places into one list. my family and I have watched the CHS food scene grow since we moved there in 2013 and I'm always so happy to share recs. from me to you :)
As a Monmouth County foodie, I'm always looking for new places to try and eat. The WORST thing to ruin the night is going to a restaurant with poor service and crappy food.... :( Below are a few of the most highly recommended places that I've tried and continue to go back to!
You literally cannot go wrong with a warm bowl of soup on a cold day. There’s something for everyone no matter if you’re a veggie lover, a fan of the classics, or if you want something easy!🥣
Whether you're making cocktails or mocktails, taking the time to source specialty ingredients can elevate your drinks from fine to fantastic! We've done a lot of recipe testing, so we know which brands are better than others and which ingredients are harder to find at your local supermarket.
welcome to my series: my tried & true of los angeles. this list is part one and consists of my go-to restaurants, from casual spots to more elevated eats.
I'm such a snacker, but I don't love when my energy crashes after eating something too sugary or greasy. Over time I've tested so many different options, and these are the ones I always end up reordering. They're easy to grab, taste amazing, and don't make me feel guilty. I split them into different categories so there's something for every craving!
I love a good snack place, especially ice-cream places ! Summer is here and i enjoy delicious things🙂↕️🤤. Screenshot the places and save them for your next stop. Family friendly, date friendly, friend meet up friendly :).
Whether you’re a casual sipper or a full-on coffee enthusiast, this board brings together all the must-have essentials to upgrade your daily brew. From high-quality coffee makers and bean grinders to airtight canisters, frothers, syrups, mugs, and more—these picks make every cup richer, fresher, and more flavorful. Discover tools that elevate your morning ritual, help you brew like a barista, and keep your coffee station looking stylish and organized. Perfect for gifting, upgrading your kitchen setup, or finding new favorites to make every sip feel special. Browse through and find your next coffee obsession.
There are times when I want to end the day with a warm cocoa or add some pep to my step in the morning. Please review my list of favorites. If you have any suggestions, please share!
Ever peek into my fridge and pantry, and you’ll find my little secret weapons for hunger emergencies. From the midnight snack that saves my sanity to the quick fix that turns lazy afternoons into mini-feasts, these are the staples I always reach for when cravings strike. Simple, unpretentious, and totally comforting
Scottsdale brunch recommendations from a local! From classic brunch options, to boujee options, I’ve got your covered. I love all these places, and I hope you do too!
My go-to matcha and tea finds for a slower, calmer morning. This list has everything from the best matcha powder and a traditional bamboo whisk to loose-leaf green tea and the cups that make the ritual feel worth pausing for. Whether you’re just getting into matcha or building a tea setup you actually love, these are the things I keep coming back to.
My fridge and pantry are basically my comfort zone. These are the snacks, drinks, and ingredients I reach for almost daily—the things I have to restock every grocery trip. From cozy staples to trendy must-haves, here are the items that keep me fueled, happy, and inspired in the kitchen.
In July, I moved to Cali and have been exploring food spots in the area ever since! This list will include places I will definitely be going back to. I am the kind of girl who looks for one menu item I love so I can go back and get the same thing every time.
Living in a third-floor walkup with no backyard shouldn't mean you're stuck eating sad oven-baked burgers forever. If you've been eyeing your cramped balcony wondering whether grilling is even possible up there — I spent two summers figuring out exactly what works in tight spaces, what doesn't smoke out your neighbors, and what actually makes food taste like a real cookout. Took me a lot of returns and one very angry neighbor to nail this setup, so save yourself the trouble.
I drink about 8 - 10 cups of tea a day. To say I am serious about my tea game is an understatement. I am obsessed. I use the same cup every day. Because it is thin porcelain - just by touching the side of it - I know if it's at a temperature ready to drink. Some days I am just ‘gasping’ for a cuppa - and I'm not even British! If you have a friend who loves tea too - here are some ideas.
The tools that actually get dinner on the table and snacks handled on busy homeschool days. Budget-friendly picks that cut down the "what's for dinner" battles.
Need quick, easy snack ideas for hungry kids after school? These are our family favorites. Simple, tasty, and ready in minutes. From healthy bites to fun treats, these snacks keep little ones happy without the sugar crash. Perfect for busy moms looking for easy ideas that actually get eaten!
every friday, I meet friends before work to try new coffee shops and cafes in nyc which is such a great way to start the weekend. living in nyc for almost 8 years, ive collected so many fav spots
Want to go out for a nice date night but not sure where you can get ambiance AND space for your giant stroller? These restaurants are our favorite places to go to with our baby. They have space to park our giant stroller next to the table.
Canada has a ton of great treats! My cousin lives in New York now but when she comes back to visit she brings back to New York some of these treats for her American friends and colleagues! I couldn’t believe that the US didn’t have some of these or that they apparently taste better here! ☺️💕✨
Anyone who knows me will tell you that I have an addiction to caffeine. I used to work as a barista, and I have a not-at-all-hidden adoration for coffee and tea. I'm a pumpkin spice kind of gal, and I'm not at all ashamed!
Wilmington, NC is one of my favorite vacation spots in North Carolina - largely for its charming downtown with a vibrant food and drink scene and chill beaches. Here are all of my favorite local restaurants, bars and coffee shops!
I’m always annoyed by happy hours that start at 2 and end at 4 or the whole menu is over $10. Not very happy, so these are true happy hours found in Chicago
Serving someone who is gluten free something to eat can be stressful for everyone involved. Don’t feel bad for not making something homemade— your guest might actually prefer things cooked in dedicated gluten free kitchens, with ingredient labels they can read. This selection of sweets are good enough to share with both gluten free, and gluten full family and friends.
Peeling hard boiled eggs used to ruin my morning. Shells stuck everywhere, whites tore apart, and half the egg ended up in the trash. If you meal prep eggs weekly or just want a clean peel without standing at the sink cursing, this is everything I use to cook, peel, store, and actually enjoy eggs without the frustration. Took me way too many wasted cartons to figure this out.
Everyone knows about the famous spots on Broadway, but these are the Nashville restaurants locals keep coming back to again and again. If you're visiting Nashville and looking for the best restaurants, hidden gems, local favorites, hot chicken, barbecue, pizza, donuts, and steakhouses, this list is for you. From iconic Nashville hot chicken at Prince's to legendary barbecue at Martin's, incredible pizza, sweet treats, and some of the best steakhouses in Nashville, these are the restaurants I personally recommend as a longtime local. Whether you're planning a Nashville vacation, weekend getaway, girls trip, bachelor or bachelorette party, or simply searching for where to eat in Nashville, these restaurants deserve a spot on your itinerary.
Here is a bunch of the essentials I use every week to try to stay healthy and enjoy my meals. I tend to shop mainly at Trader Joe's with a few items at other grocery stores or Target. I often brig them along on my travels or find a Trader Joe's near where I am staying.
Getting home at 7pm and staring at a bag of broccoli you know will take 20 minutes to prep and cook. Meanwhile the kids want food NOW. These are the steamers, choppers, and shortcuts that turned raw vegetables into an actual side dish faster than I can set the table. Grabbed every one of these over the past year and my grocery store produce actually gets eaten now instead of rotting in the crisper drawer.
Sam's Club is my go to for bulk items, but I've also started to try and utilize my membership to help offset rising grocery costs. Buying ground beef in the 3 packs, chips, etc. Whatever you can do to help save money!
I'm originally from the Hudson Valley area and these are places we've loved for years or recently discovered on trips home. Mostly shopping and restaurants as my favorite things to do are shop and eat. 🤣
I aim for 100g of protein a day so I love having lots of options that taste good and are high in protein, low sugar! These are my favorites. If you have any recommendations let me know because I'm always on the look out for more to add!
Over the years I've experimented with different coffee rituals to start the day with as many nutrients as possible. As a 3rd-gen vegetarian, getting enough fat and protein can be challenging. This is the recipe that has stayed in my morning routine for years. As I get older, I add new ingredients to see how far I can push it while still making a cup of coffee that I can look forward to drinking every morning!
You bought a delicata or kabocha on impulse, stared at it on the counter for three days, then gave up and made pasta again. Been there. This list is for anyone who wants to actually cook seasonal squash without wrestling it with a dull knife or ending up with bland mush. Took me an entire autumn of trial and error so you can skip straight to the good part.
I recently started a health journey and I’m always looking for healthy snacks and food foods that will satiate my cravings, but also give me and my family the right nutrition!
Loveeee shopping for fun eats at Trader Joe's. I do not shop for my weekly groceries here, but rather for special treats, specialty items, and the best snacks. Here are some of my favorites!
I worked at Starbucks for 3 years as a supervisor and completed the coffee academy for the black apron-- i love coffee (and tea!) and am passionate about making great coffee at home (especially in this economy). If you want to give up your daily starbucks (which you should because they are an evil union busting company), this list is for you!
If you come to visit Rangeley, Maine, a western cozy lake front town, these are the best restaurants to check out. Minutes away from Saddleback mountain, the snowmobile trails and the lake, famously known for fishing and hunting.
This list is useful for those that are new to cooking and need a little guidance. Getting started can be intimidating but the items on this list can help for simple solutions to cooking small to large meals. I am not much of a chef and these are the tools I use and never had a complaint about my cooking (when I do it).
This list is packed with our favorite high-protein foods and go-to delivery options to keep the whole family energized and satisfied. From protein-packed snacks and kid-friendly meals to ready-to-eat options that make life easier, everything here supports strong bodies and busy schedules. Whether you’re fueling post-practice appetites or planning protein-rich dinners, these picks make healthy eating simple and delicious.
Portland tends to pride ourselves in spending our money where it matters the most —supporting the creative locals that live here. This list includes multiple businesses that I’ve had good experiences visiting, whether I bought something from them or not! 💕
It’s important to be prepared BEFORE something happens. This list is where I share my prep items, and items we use frequently in our homestead! From hurricanes to power outages, or even a full blown collapse you never know what’s around the corner so having the skills and resources to take care of your family in any situation is so important
If you’re traveling to the Metro Area in Iowa, and want the best spots to eat.. From morning brunch with family, to date night on the town, and everything in between. Here they are!
My oldest has multiple food allergies which means I’ve packed him lunch every day he’s been in school. That’s a lot of days. Find some tried and true suggestions here.
The end of the day is sometimes rough, especially after a long day of existing. For the moments you don't know what to make for dinner, here's some things that will make your time in the kitchen better.
Not just ice cream, but all frozen goodness! Beat the heat of summer, or join the chill of winter; frozen treats are not seasonal, in my opinion, but they add something extra when it's hot out, right?! Let me know if you've tried anything you see here and what ya think.
Le Creuset makes a wide range of enameled cast iron cookware and bakeware, all in beautiful colors! These are high quality iyems that have a LIFETIME guarantee (and a high price point). If you're going to have one or several pieces of Le Creuset for your life, tou better learn what to use them for (hint...just about anything!) This list pairs up my most used cookware with some favorite recipes. BTW...My BFF works for one of the stores and when Christmas comes, I know I'm getting a new piece in my color shallot, thanks bestie!
As a family of 7 we try lots and lots of new foods! We love finding healthy options that taste amazing. We also still love some good junk food. I also love finding easy ways to dinner on the table after I’ve worked all day!
I'm type one diabetic so try to steer clear of sugary drinks. they're unnecessary things that make my blood sugar spike! I despise the taste of normal diet soda, any brand, most flavors. So when I find something that tastes good and doesn't make my blood sugar spike, I get very excited!
This list has all my favorite recipes for raising my vibration to a heightened state of awareness. Other benefits to this diet are weight loss, more energy and clear radiant skin!
Grocery bills were eating my paycheck alive, and my kids would riot if I switched their favorite snacks. So I ran blind taste tests at our kitchen table for three months straight. These store brand and budget snacks passed the kid test every single time. Grab this list before your next shopping trip and keep an extra $40 in your pocket each week.
These recipes are what I've found to be the most delicious, easy to follow and healthy. If a recipe calls for something unhealthy I substitute it. I'll list a few common ones. Margarine? Use butter. Sugar? Use raw honey. Table salt? Use sea salt. Etc.
The containers and tools that make Sunday meal prep quick and the week ahead easier. Glass that goes from fridge to oven, sheet pans that don't warp, and a few hands-off cookers for big batches.
I am a coffee LOVER, and have a goal to try as many coffee spots as I can all around Chicago! I usually get the same thing everywhere I go— iced almond milk latte with just a little bit of honey. These are my recommendations based on quality, taste, and vibes of the coffee shop (I’m all about the vibes). This list contains my *personal* favorite coffee spots in Chicago, but I still have so many to try! What’s your favorite coffee spot? I’ll add it to my list of places to try :)
Mornings used to be me staring into the fridge, grabbing string cheese, and calling it lunch. Meal prepping sounded great in theory but every container leaked, every recipe took two hours, and nothing reheated well. This is the exact lineup I use now to batch-cook egg cups and freezer-friendly lunches on Sunday in about 45 minutes. Built for anyone juggling a full schedule who keeps defaulting to drive-throughs because cooking feels like a second job.