Greg doesn’t ask for much. He’s got every golf gadget, grill tool, and bar contraption a man could want. He’s covered when it comes to gardening gear, SEC sportswear, and team merch from every Dallas pro team. Honestly, buying gifts for him feels a little silly—especially since I’d be spending his own money.

So this year, my friend Beth won the prize for gift-giving to Greg.

She showed up at our door with a warm, homemade tomato pie. Wrapped in brown paper and twine, finished with a sprig of basil.

You would’ve thought she handed him a Rolex. He held it like a newborn. Lit up like a kid on Christmas.

Not because it was expensive.
Not because it was flashy.
Because it was thoughtful.
Because it tasted like home.
Because food is the South’s love language. (And he’s a Mississippi boy through and through.)

When He Has Everything, Give Him Something to Eat

Let’s be honest—shopping for men gets harder every year. Especially the ones who:

• Say they don’t want anything
• Already buy whatever they need
• Have very specific hobbies you don’t understand (looking at you, garden shears and golf grips)

But here’s the truth: a thoughtful food gift hits different.

It’s not another gadget. It doesn’t collect dust. It shows you know him. Bonus points if it’s homemade, wrapped well, and comes with a backstory.

My Favorite Father’s Day Food Gift Ideas

You don’t have to bake a pie (but I’ve got the recipe if you want it)!

Here are other ideas that work every time:

 For the Griller:

• Spice rub trio or homemade BBQ sauce
• Steak + bourbon pairing
• A batch of marinated meat ready for the grill

 For the Sweet Tooth:

• Homemade cookies in a tin
• Cinnamon rolls + coffee for Father’s Day morning
• A store-bought favorite styled like a bakery gift

 For the Bar Guy:

• Craft cocktail mixers + garnishes
• A batch of his favorite drink (Greg’s skinny marg or a Transfusion, anyone?)
• Bourbon cherries + smoked salt

 For the Snack-and-Sizzle Guy (aka the One Who Eats Like It’s a Sport):

• Spicy nuts, cheese straws, or pepper jelly—Southern staples
• A cooler full of his favorites, iced down and labeled “Dad Only”
• Subscription gifts that hit the spot:
  •  Bacon-of-the-Month Club
  •  Coffee subscriptions
  •  Wine or whiskey memberships
  • Sausage boxes (bonus if it’s smoked)

Want to Add a Gift with It?

Food can be the main event—or the opener. If you want to pair it with something he’ll actually use, I rounded up my favorite Father’s Day gifts for:

• Grill masters
• Golf guys
• Cocktail lovers
• Backyard loungers
• Low-key luxury dads

👉 Shop my Father’s Day Gift Guide (available on Amazon and LTK)

Wrap It Up

If you’re stuck or tired of overspending on things that don’t land—start with food. It’s heartfelt. It’s useful. And it reminds him of all the holidays, tailgates, and birthdays that have made your life together rich.

Greg didn’t need another golf shirt. He needed a warm surprise.
And your guy might, too.