10 Yummy Last Minute Gifts for Food Lovers!

If you’re shopping for someone who lives and breathes food, finding the perfect gift can be both fun and mouth-watering. But what happens when you’re short on time and need something quick, yet delicious and thoughtful? Don’t worry! From gourmet snacks to indulgent gift sets, these 10 last-minute gift ideas are sure to satisfy the cravings of any food lover in your life.

Get to Know GiftYa, A Delicious Last Minute Gift Option for Food Lovers! 🍝

Foodies have discerning taste, and chances are they’ve already tried most of the good restaurants in town. You can try to stay up on the latest restaurant openings and get them a gift card to somewhere new, but it’s hard to stay ahead of the curve! And what if they don’t love that trendy place you’ve heard about through the grapevine?

Luckily, GiftYa gives you a way to make sure they love the gift card you get them. 

First, choose a national brand or local restaurant from the GiftYa catalog. There are thousands, so you’re sure to find something first rate! Customize your gift with a message and wrapping paper, and then it’s off to their email or phone in seconds. 

Now here’s the great part  – your favorite food lover has several different ways to redeem. They can use it like an e-gift voucher or connect it to a card they carry all the time, but they can also exchange it for any other merchant in the GiftYa catalog in seconds. It’s perfect for picky foodies or in case dinner plans for the night change. And you can rest assure they’ll be getting a gift they’re truly excited about.

The catalog also features gourmet gift brands. Any of these options make yummy last minute gifts for food lovers:

• Text a Harry & David gift card so they can choose the premium foods or gourmet sweets basket of their dreams, from fruit to food and wine to chocolates
• Send an Omaha Steaks gift card to upgrade their dinner this week with gourmet steaks, seafood, sides, wine, and dessert delivered right to their door
• Share a Simply Chocolate gift card so that they can indulge their sweet tooth with a selection of gourmet sweets

1. Artisan Chocolate Sampler

Few things make a food lover’s heart sing like a chocolate 🍫♥️

A high-quality artisan chocolate sampler is the perfect last-minute gift for anyone with a sweet tooth. The key is to find a variety that offers a mix of rich, dark chocolates, creamy milk chocolates, and even unique flavors like chili-infused or sea salt caramel. Brands like Lindt, Ghirardelli, and Godiva often have pre-packaged gift boxes available in stores, making them easy to pick up on the go.

If you have a bit more time, you can visit local chocolatiers or artisanal shops that specialize in small-batch, handcrafted treats. These samplers are not just delicious but visually appealing, too—packaged beautifully and designed to impress any chocolate connoisseur.

Or you can listen to the wisdom of crowds and try the Dubai-based chocolate bars that have gone mega viral. The bar that’s getting the most hype is “Can’t Get Knafeh of It,” featuring crispy knafeh and pistachio tahini paste wrapped in milk chocolate. Sampler boxes are also available though!

2. Gourmet Popcorn Gift Set

Gourmet popcorn is a crunchy and flavorful snack that’s perfect for foodies who love unique flavors. You can easily find a pre-made popcorn gift set at stores like Trader Joe’s, Williams-Sonoma, or even grocery stores during the holiday season. Many sets include a variety of flavors, ranging from sweet options like caramel and chocolate-drizzled popcorn to savory choices like truffle or cheddar popcorn.

For an extra special touch, choose a DIY popcorn kit that includes kernels and flavored seasonings, allowing the recipient to make their own personalized gourmet snack. These sets typically come with fun toppings like white cheddar powder, sea salt, or spicy sriracha seasoning—perfect for food lovers who enjoy experimenting with flavors.

3. Cheese and Charcuterie Board

For the food lover who enjoys savory delights, a cheese and charcuterie board makes an impressive and mouth-watering last-minute gift. You can find pre-made cheese and meat platters at many grocery stores or specialty markets, featuring a selection of gourmet cheeses, cured meats, and crackers. These platters are perfect for hosting or indulging in a luxurious night in.

If you’re looking for something more personalized, assemble your own charcuterie board by picking up some fine cheeses (think brie, aged gouda, and blue cheese), artisanal salami, and a variety of accompaniments like olives, nuts, and dried fruits. Don’t forget the crackers and perhaps a jar of honey or fig jam to round out the flavors.

And if you have never charcuterie’d before, don’t worry. It’s pretty easy to assemble a board that looks and tastes great.

4. Coffee Lover’s Gift Set

Does your food-loving friend or family member have a daily caffeine ritual? Then a coffee lover’s gift set will surely perk them up! This gift can be as simple or elaborate as you’d like, depending on the recipient's coffee preferences. Most stores carry gift sets that include specialty coffee beans, flavored syrups, and perhaps a cozy mug.

For a more elevated experience, consider a gourmet coffee subscription service where they’ll receive fresh, single-origin coffee beans delivered right to their door. Many of these subscriptions offer a range of flavor profiles, allowing the recipient to explore different regions and roasting styles. Pair this with a sleek French press or pour-over coffee maker for a complete coffee experience.

Find a coffee blend that fits their interests, like:

• Grounds & Hounds Sunrise Rescue Gift Pack benefiting shelter dogs
• Cat Rescue coffee & tea blends benefiting shelter cats
• Expedition Roasters Bewitching Butterscotch Beer Coffee for the Potterhead
• Batman Mug and Coffee Bundle from Comics on Coffee
• La Colombe Classics Sampler Bean set
• Atlas Coffee Club gift subscription
• Bourbon Barrel Aged Coffee by Pappy & Company

5. Cooking Oils and Infused Vinegars

If you’re shopping for someone who loves cooking, a set of gourmet oils and vinegars is a fantastic last-minute gift idea. Many stores offer beautifully packaged sets of infused olive oils, flavored balsamic vinegars, and even truffle oils. These products can be used to elevate everyday cooking, making even simple dishes taste extraordinary.

Look for oils infused with flavors like garlic, rosemary, or chili, and vinegars that include fruity notes like fig or pomegranate. For an extra touch, include a small recipe card suggesting ways to use the oils and vinegars—whether it’s for dipping bread, drizzling over salads, or finishing off a pasta dish. This gift not only tastes amazing but will inspire the recipient to get creative in the kitchen.

6. Gourmet Hot Sauce Collection

For the food lover who craves spice, a gourmet hot sauce collection is a fiery and exciting gift. You can find gift sets that feature a variety of heat levels and flavor profiles, from smoky chipotle to tangy habanero, to satisfy any spicy food aficionado. Brands like Cholula, Sriracha, and Tabasco often offer mini bottle sets that are perfect for sampling.

For something more unique, seek out artisanal hot sauces from local farmers' markets or specialty food stores. Many small-batch producers create sauces that highlight regional peppers or combine unexpected ingredients like mango, pineapple, or chocolate. Pair the hot sauce set with a package of gourmet tortilla chips or a DIY taco kit for an extra-special gift.

7. Fancy Olive Oil and Bread Dipping Kit

If you know someone who loves a good bread and oil combo (who doesn’t?), then a fancy olive oil and bread dipping kit will be a winning gift. Look for premium cold-pressed olive oils that are known for their rich flavor and smooth texture. Many gourmet shops offer dipping kits that include herbs, spices, and even a dipping dish.

To make this last-minute gift even more impressive, pair the olive oil with a fresh loaf of artisanal bread—think crusty baguette or a fluffy focaccia. This gift is ideal for anyone who enjoys simple yet sophisticated snacking, and it can be picked up quickly from any gourmet grocer or bakery.

8. Sushi-Making Kit

For the adventurous foodie who loves to try their hand at new cooking techniques, a sushi-making kit is a fun and interactive last-minute gift. These kits usually come with sushi rice, bamboo rolling mats, seaweed sheets (nori), and chopsticks. All the recipient needs to add are fresh ingredients like fish, avocado, and cucumber to create their own delicious sushi rolls at home.

You can find sushi-making kits at major retailers like Amazon, Target, or specialty Asian grocery stores. Some kits even include instructional DVDs or online tutorials, making it easy for beginners to learn the art of sushi. It’s a creative and engaging gift that promises a hands-on culinary experience.

9. Gourmet Nut Gift Box

If you’re shopping for a health-conscious food lover, a gourmet nut gift box is a delicious and nutritious choice. These boxes often include a variety of nuts like roasted almonds, pecans, cashews, and pistachios, sometimes paired with dried fruits or chocolate-covered nuts. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it an excellent snack for anyone on the go.

You can find pre-made nut gift boxes at stores like Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, or online from companies like Harry & David. For a more personalized touch, you could also put together your own gift box by selecting an assortment of their favorite nuts and pairing them with a few other healthy snacks like dark chocolate or dried berries.

10. Gift Card to a Gourmet Food Store or Restaurant

When in doubt, a gift card is a foolproof last-minute gift idea—especially for food lovers. Whether it’s a local gourmet food store, a high-end restaurant, or a specialty grocer like Whole Foods or Eataly, a gift card allows the recipient to choose their own culinary adventure.

For those who love to cook, a gift card to a gourmet market where they can pick up premium ingredients (think truffle products, aged cheeses, or exotic spices) will be appreciated. If your food-loving friend prefers dining out, choose a restaurant gift card to their favorite spot or one they’ve been eager to try. It’s a flexible, thoughtful gift that ensures they’ll get exactly what they want, without the guesswork.

That’s it for our yummy last minute gift ideas any food lover would enjoy!

Whether you're shopping for a birthday, holiday, or just to show your appreciation, finding a yummy last-minute gift for a food lover doesn’t have to be stressful. From artisan chocolates and gourmet popcorn to sushi-making kits and hot sauce collections, these 10 gift ideas are sure to satisfy their cravings and bring a smile to their face. The key is to think about their personal preferences and choose something that adds a little extra flavor to their lives—literally!