We all know with the current situation where we shouldn’t be shopping but since people have asked for my recommendations, I decided to make a handy list of places that have done right by me.
Perfect Edge Cutlery
This little knife shop in San Mateo has been serving Chefs and home cooks for over thirty years and this is more or less the only spot I’ll get new steel at. Not only do they carry an extensive array of Chefs knives, they stock for all skill levels and have quite a few great blades that won’t break your budget. Not only that but they also offer top-shelf sharpening and ship all over the place.
Buddha’s Cup Coffee
There are a lot of Coffee Farms in Hawaii so why do I recommend this one? Simply put, I’ve hung out there and it’s one of the nicest farms I’ve ever spent time at. They’re not trying to be the number one brand, they’re trying to grow and roast the best coffee they can, in small batches with a lot of love and care. Spending an afternoon with the growers showed me exactly how much effort goes in the coffee we drink and gave me a deeper appreciation for the stuff. Philosophy aside, they make some damn good coffee that stands above the mass-produced shit that most of us are used to drinking. Buy a pound, try it out and I can promise that you’ll end up buying more soon after.
Castaway Sauce Company
This was started by fans who emailed asking if they could send me a few samples and give em my honest feedback so they could improve. Of course I said yes and once I tried it, I was sold. They make a few flavors that range from sweet and mild to “oh fuck, this was a mistake” hot so I strongly suggest buying a sample pack so that you can find your favorite but don’t forget to grab one for anyone you know who loves a good hot sauce. Listen, there are a lot of brands that are garbage and gimmicks with fancy labels and stupid names, this is not one of those brands. As with Buddas Cup, they do small batches using only high-quality ingredients and the difference is clear with the first taste.
Forestxfriends
This is a local Artist I met at a garden supply store while she was dropping off a few stickers to sell. As soon as I saw her Tarot Card Hummingbird sticker, I had to buy one. Since then, I’ve been following her on Instagram and really dig her style. In fact, I’ll be buying one of her new “Hummingbird Habitat” signs for my garden very soon.
Up Beat Vintage
While Perfect Edge has you covered for all your new knives, this is where you go for one-of-a-kind antiques that you really can’t find anywhere else. Dan knows his stuff and has a wide selection of not only Chefs knives but a bunch of old lighters and other really cool stuff. If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary that will be admired, this spot is worth checking out. By the way, if you want to get me something, he’s got some really nice massive hog splitters that I’d love to get my hands on.