Food & Drink notes

Brownie points; sharp practice; wholesome fun

Brownie points

Packed in tissue paper in a beautiful box, these bite-size brownies are perfect for secret nibbling in the boudoir, but are meant to be given as gifts to other people. Why then are they called Coco à Moi? Well, never mind that - they're made gooey and gorgeously rich with chocolate (70 per cent cocoa solids), pecan nuts and other indulgent ingredients to a recipe perfected over many years. Treat yourself to a 150g box for £7.50 including p&p from www.cocoamoi.com or 020-8864 9052 and some branches of Waitrose.

Sharp practice

They look the business and they're made in the crucible of British cutlery. Richardson Sheffield Stainless Steel knives come in a set of five in a block for £140 or individually from £17 for the paring knife, up to £27 for the bread knife. Made entirely from stainless steel, they're designed so you hold them properly, for effortless slicing. And the 20cm cook's knife really rocks: the wide tapering blade allows the knife to move back and forth making light work of dicing and slicing fruit and veg. Stockists 0114 241 9200.

Wholesome fun

School's out for summer, learning to cook is in. Sticky Mitts is designed to get children cooking at home. Sign them up for the Summer Fun Course (£65 plus £4.95 p&p) and with a bit of supervision they can cook potato salad with home-made mayo, brunch banana muffins and raspberry towers, and other summery recipes from the wipe-clean cards. These come in a folder with an apron and bag, plus access to Sticky Kids online with more recipes, info, activities and games. 0870 2406892/ www.stickymitts.co.uk