Things We Like: Mark’s New Apron and Holly’s Favorite Spoon

Our biweekly roundup of our favorite things.

Published October 17, 2025

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1. Tilit Contra Chef Bib Apron​

Tilit

I was never a huge apron wearer, but I got sick of thinking of even my nice shirts as disposable—and when aprons nicer than my mother’s became available, I started wearing them. My favorite (aside from “I’ll Feed All You Fuckers“) is this one from Tilit​—it’s waxed cotton (canvas?), has a great feel, resists staining, washes like a dream, and has nice ties that even work for those of us of a certain girth. – Mark

Use code Bittmanbites10 for 10% off your order.


2. Hedley & Bennett Utility Spoon​​

Hedley & Bennett

Of all the utensils in my kitchen, spoons are my favorite. And of all my spoons, the ​Hedley & Bennett Utility Spoon is the one I reach for most. It’s bigger than a soup spoon, smaller than a ladle, and good for almost anything—mixing, plating, even scooping the flesh out of an avocado. I also love the silicone handle; I have a habit of resting spoons a little too close to the flame, so the stay-cool surface is a real hand-saver. – Holly


3. Rancho Meladuco Dates​

Rancho Meladuco

Is this newsletter becoming a newsletter about dates? Maybe. But I’d be remiss if I didn’t tell you that Rancho Meladuco is just off a fresh harvest—founder Joan Smith was kind enough to send me some of the freshest dates I’ve ever had—and if you like dates, you gotta get into this batch. I’ve been keeping a box on the counter (don’t tell Joan; she advises refrigeration, but I like them super mushy) and whenever I get hangry (multiple times a day), my dates are waiting. – Kate


4. 30% off at Thrive Market​

Thrive Market

Thrive Market​ is a convenient way to stock up on all your staples. Kate loves it for coconut milk and coconut oil, sea salt, canned tomatoes, crackers, sponges, cleaning supplies—and coffee! (Their coffee is really good.) The (small) membership fee is more than made up for with the discounts you’ll receive on every order. ​ Try Thrive Market today and receive 30% off your first order AND a free gift! PLUS—this week only shop 15 to 25% off top-rated brands and more before the sale ends on October 18th!


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Through our (more than a thousand, and growing) highly vetted recipes from the How to Cook Everything series, original food essays and reporting, thoughtful podcast conversations and introductions to new and responsible food products, we aim to showcase what’s possible, from farm to fork, and power a growing movement that encourages people to think about food not as a commodity, but as central to our health and happiness.

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