Maybe you're low-key panicking over what to get that special chef on your list, or maybe you've just always wondered what Ariete's executive pastry chef, Dallas Wynne, can't live without. Either way, here's a list of baller stuff to keep in your back pocket, be you chef or no. (Yes, tortillas are a legit gift.)

1. Burt's Bees Chapstick 

I'm a huge supporter and constantly have this in my pocket, apron or purse depending on whats going on that day. I don't think I could go a day without it.

2. Cutco Kitchen Shears

Yes the company that college kids go around trying to sell you knives with a lifetime guarantee. I have to admit their shears are my absolute favorite and I am quite protective of them. They will set you back nearly $100 but they will cut through nearly anything, they come apart to clean, and a plus for me is they come in bright red so I can always spot where they are in the kitchen.

3. J. Cole and Nelly Pandora

Some chefs consider it Taboo to listen to music in the kitchen but when I'm prepping especially for brunch I love blasting my J Cole and Nelly Pandora — it's a great way to start off my day.

4. Hedley & Bennett Apron

Shout out to Ellen Bennett for making these kick-ass aprons. I am partial to the petite apron because, at a statuesque 5ft 2, they don't make me look like I am drowning in my apron. They have so many styles that they are great for everyone, lightweight and pockets galore!

5. Silica Packets

These little packets of heaven are so versatile I use them to save my brittles, candies and confections from the Florida humidity. I even throw them in my work shoes to get rid of any odors or moisture.

6. Skechers work force shoes

They may not be Birks, but they are my go-to work shoes. I have high arches and they have great padding, awesome nonslip soles and no laces. They just slip right on.

7. Decorative socks

As a chef there aren't many ways to have fun with your outfit, so my go-to is to spice it up with fun socks. Target has an awesome selection of food-related socks; my favorite? Definitely my artichoke socks.

8. Panther Coffee

The Miami-based coffee company is my lifesaver. Thankfully they are walking distance from the restaurant, because I don't know how I would get through inventory without a Nitro Coldbrew.

9. Toothbrush

No, not for the reason you are thinking — I always have a toothbrush on my station at work. It is great for detailing gaskets and cleaning in small spaces. It is beyond important to keep the little spots clean, and a toothbrush is my favorite tool for doing so.

10. Wüsthof Super Slicer

Hedy Goldsmith gave me my first Wüsthof Super Slicer and I cherish it more than any other tool in my knife bag. It's a serrated razor blade that I use all day everyday.

BONUS 

 

11. Tortillas

"Oh your a chef you must get to eat all day!" Yeah I wish. You'll typically find me scarfing down whatever I can throw in a tortilla while standing over a garbage can. I'll basically put anything in a tortilla and be a happy camper. 

Illustration by Liz Noftle | Collage by ChefsFeed