This post is part of our “Monthly Obsessions” series, in which we ask our writers and editors what product they added to their kitchen that they now can't live without.
Every month, Food & Wine editors and writers test dozens of kitchen appliances, tools, and cooking equipment. And every month, a few products stand out above the rest. When you try a product that you really love, you'll want to immediately share the news with your family, friends, and readers.
Wondering what Food & Wine editors really use in their own kitchens? Here are the best cookware, appliances, and tools the team tried in June, with prices starting at just $9. Read on for deals from Lodge, Cuisinart, OXO, and more.
Editor's Picks for June
- Takeya Cold Brew Iced Tea Maker, $30 at amazon.com (list price $33)
- Riedel Vinum Port Glass, $79 on amazon.com
- Ecoangel Collapsible Straws, set of 4, $9 on amazon.com (list price $10)
- Lodge 5-Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven, $50 on amazon.com (list price $76)
- West Elm x Rhode Salad Plate, $52 at westelm.com
- Lodge Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle, $30 on amazon.com (originally $60)
- Earlywood Serving Spoon, $45 on amazon.com
- OXO Good Grips Large Salad Spinner, $25 at amazon.com (list price $30)
- Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker, $170 on amazon.com
Takeya Cold Brew Iced Tea Maker
Amazon
“I drink a lot of iced tea in the summer, and I use this Takeya iced tea maker every day to make large batches of delicious iced tea. It's easy to use and clean, and I've been making cold brew tea for years and this maker has lasted a long time. The size is perfect and the design is sleek, so it fits perfectly in my fridge door.” – Ahn Won, Commercial Writer
Riedel Vinum Port Glass
“The longer days in the summer mean more time for pre- or post-dinner amaro (for me at least). I love pouring a little Cynar, Braulio or Nonino in this Riedel Port glass before dinner, or enjoying a Fernet-Branca Menta with dessert. The 8.5 oz glass gives the spirit plenty of room to exist and breathe, and it also feels luxurious and fun, like sitting on the terrace of a cafe somewhere in Europe. In my opinion, you should spend money to enjoy an amaro (or your favorite spirit)!” – Adam Rothbarth, commercial writer
Ecoangel Foldable Straws, Set of 4
“I love reusable straws, and these extendable metal straws are perfect for traveling. Each set comes with four straws, an aluminum carrying case, a cleaning brush, and a carabiner that attaches to your bag.” – Katie Brown, Commerce Writer
Lodge 5 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven
“Caring for cast iron products can be a lot of work, but I always give my Lodge Dutch Oven some extra love. Whether I'm craving a hearty bowl of soup in the fall or a fragrant biryani for everyone in the summer, this rustic hunk of metal is always there to help me get the job done. I also love that it has a grill on one side of the top, especially since I don't have a grill myself. I can grill chicken, steaks, veggies, or just about anything else inside.” – Dillon Evans, Breaking News Writer
West Elm x Loaded Salad Plate
West Elm
“I'm so happy that Lorde and West Elm are teaming up again this summer! I couldn't resist buying several pieces from the collection. The salad plates are sturdy and beautiful. I've put them through the dishwasher a few times already and I know I'll be using them for a while!” – Osset Babur Winter, Senior Drinks Editor
Lodge Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle
Amazon
“The Lodge Reversible Grill/Griddle is one of my favorite pieces of cookware. I use it every week to make pancakes and grill veggie kebabs. It's also great for making English muffins. Plus, it's on sale for 41% off.” – Ahn Won
Earlywood serving spoon
Amazon
“I've written a lot about Earlywood tools recently, and I especially recommend this serving spoon. It's a must-have in my kitchen for serving desserts, casseroles, and more. What makes this spoon so special is its shape – it's rounded enough for scooping contents, and has straight sides for cutting and serving. Not only that, it's also great for grabbing a larger amount of food at once. It's an essential piece of kitchen essentials.” – Kristin Montemarano, Commerce Writer
OXO Good Grips Large Salad Spinner
Amazon
“It's busy season at the farm stand, so I've been using the salad spinner to quickly wash and dry the loads of produce I bring home each weekend. It's not just for lettuce and leafy greens, but also for produce like okra and strawberries that can easily be given a quick rinse and spin.” – Karen Shimizu, Editor in Chief
Cuisinart soft serve ice cream maker
Amazon
“I never thought anything could compare to my beloved Mister Softee truck until I had the chance to try this soft serve ice cream maker. It's super easy to use and has handy features like a topping dispenser, cone holder, and a mini hot plate for heating up your fudge and caramel.” – Katie Brown
