Foodie Father’s Day Gifts

Everyone knows the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, so read on for some gastronomic gifts that’ll get you on your dad’s good side…

In case you’d forgotten (and we’re sure some of you did), Father’s Day is this Sunday. Not to worry though, as we’ve compiled some great ideas that won’t break the bank or take ages to prepare.

Breakfast in Bed
If this hasn’t crossed your mind, you need to rethink your priorities. Breakfast in bed is one of the easiest (and pocket-friendly) ways to put a smile on your dad’s face and remind him that this is not a day like any other. Whether it’s a full English fry-up or a vegetarian feast, there are few experiences more satisfying than having hot food served to you in the comfort of your bed. Serve up your offering with tea or coffee in a ‘World’s Best Dad’ mug for the full effect.

Chocolates
These might seem like more of a Mother’s Day gift, but we all know blokes love chocolate too. Father’s Day ranges are available in all self-respecting chocolatiers – including perennial favourite Hotel Chocolat – or you could always make a hamper of his favourite chocolate bars for the personal touch. Whether he’s a fan of the white, milk, 85-per-cent Ecuadorian dark, mint-flavoured or truffle-filled variety, knowing what he likes will always go down well. I find that boozy chocolate boxes from Waitrose or Marks & Spencer are usually a winner. And, speaking of booze…

Booze (Part 1)
If your dad likes a nightcap every now and again, there’s something very pleasing about a nice bottle of the good stuff. Obviously there is a huge market with a lot to choose from, and you’ll need to pick something special for him, but we’ve got a few ideas to get the ball rolling. Firstly, there aren’t many drinks with a manlier reputation than a good bottle of single malt whisky. This is the kind of thing that he can bring out on special occasions – birthdays, celebration parties, Christmas – to add a touch of sophistication to proceedings. The more obscure the brand, the better; if no-one’s heard of the bottle of Scotch from the most unexplored corner of the Cairngorms you present him with, it will look like you put in more effort searching for it. Obviously, if your dad isn’t a whisky man, a bottle of rum, vodka, gin, port, amaretto, or whatever his chosen tipple is will do just as well.

Booze (Part 2)
If dear old dad tends to stay away from the heavier stuff, perhaps a lighter option is in order. A bottle of wine might do the trick, and you can ask the staff in the store for a good suggestion. You could also go for a mixed set of craft beers (perhaps from new Bristol-based brewery, Wiper and True) or real ales, which can be found in most independent beer stores as well as some supermarkets. Local and obscure beers are best; brewers tend to have a decent sense of humour and will often give their drinks funny or quirky names, which of course make for a fun present. You can do the same with ciders, or if there are no preselected sets available, grab six different bottles and pack them together yourself.

Cheeses & Chutneys
Wine and chocolates might be cheesy presents, but ironically a nice vintage cheese might be the surprise that wins the day. This one very much depends on your dad’s tastes, but a block of local gourmet cheese can last for weeks, with a little bit in sandwiches, salads and on crackers here and there. Make sure to get a good variety though – he’s unlikely to be impressed by Cheese Strings or Babybels! To go with your cheese, a chutney or relish is a nice touch. Something tasty and local should do the trick.

Dinner
Take him out for dinner (or lunch, if you prefer). Go somewhere nice, either his favourite restaurant or somewhere he’s never been before but you think he’ll enjoy. You can find a few great suggestions on the Food & Drink Guide website or app. This option is really obvious, but it does give you a great chance for some quality time together, which is a gift in itself.

Something Unexpected
For an original present, something unexpected with a funny name is almost always a winner, whether it’s a table sauce from the dangerous-sounding Grim Reaper Foods, an American extravagance from Cybercandy, or a piece of unusual cooking equipment, there are hundreds of hidden gems that you can pick up if you look for them. It’s probably too late to order something online, unless you get first-class delivery and order right now, or are willing to face the shame of handing over a present three days late, but if you hit the independent shops in your town or city there are plenty of fun traders across the UK with unusual and eccentric products that your dad might love. Get searching – we can’t do all the hard work for you!