Thomas Keller’s Favorite Things

“Fellow’s Stagg EKG Pro Electric Kettle is super handy for brewing quick and easy tea at home. It makes a perfect cup because it keeps the water at just the right temperature. I like it so much that we gave it as a holiday gift to all our managers last year.”

“I jot down notes and observations that catch my eye—menus or a unique design detail, like how a purple box of tapioca pearls inspired The French Laundry’s Oysters and Pearls. I use Public Supply notebooks for their great design and quality paper, and I appreciate that they support arts in public schools.”

“These eyeglasses are progressive, both literally and figuratively! The Warby Parker progressive lenses are a game changer for me—no more juggling different pairs for distance or reading. They’re all-in-one and come in fun and stylish colors. Great for the kitchen as well.”

“My first job at a restaurant was as a dishwasher. That experience taught me many valuable life lessons that I still apply today. Washing dishes also made me more mindful of taking care of my hands. Nowadays, I prefer using Aēsop. The Eleos Aromatique has notes of cedar and clover, and it’s a brand I first discovered during a trip to Australia.”

“An alternative to my daily backpack, the Métier briefcase is a real splurge. It’s lightweight and fits all you need to run to meetings in the city.”

“David Zwirner Books is my go-to for art books. The Outlands highlights the photography of color pioneer William Eggleston. The collection offers a glimpse into the South from 1969 to 1974, complemented by insights from his son’s foreword.”

“At the Surf Club Restaurant we use large cutting boards from the Wooden Palate for carving. Their sustainably sourced salad servers inspire you to elevate your salads and more.”

“I send lots of cards, so I always keep some on hand for special occasions. I love Mr. Boddington’s Class Dismissed card for graduations.”

“K+M Extravirgin Chocolate is good for the body and good for the soul.”

“A meal is made up of so much more than the food. We rely on our senses to remember the details that make our experiences unique. The French Laundry Scented Candle by Joya feels like classic French cuisine in California: a chef’s pantry, aged river rock, culinary gardens and delicate petals.”