Rings cutting board, or salt blend collection?

When looking to impress a date, some people start in their closets. But since sky-high heels can only take you so far (especially in Boston, the cobblestone capital of the USA), we usually start in the kitchen. Love may be blind, but it certainly can't go hungry. So we like to set an intimate table for two and whip up something satisfying - and get extra points for presentation while we're at it. That's why this colorful rings cutting board ($28) caught our eye during a stop by Abodeon (1731 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, 617.497.0137). This multipurpose piece comes from Joseph Joseph, a British kitchenware line created by two twin brothers - one a bold designer, the other a business whiz - so it's no wonder it serves up both fashion and function. The all-in-one cutting board, trivet, and serving dish is made of tough tempered glass that won't stain or scar. And it's a total bull's-eye in the style department, so whether you're slicing, dicing, or just learning the difference between the two, your foodie flair is sure to impress. But if all else fails, you can still break out that little black dress. That'll always be on the menu.

OR THAT ...

But what if your culinary creations lack flavor? Hospital-grade cuisine isn't exactly a recipe for a romantic dinner for two. Spices were some of the earliest aphrodisiacs, so we suggest adding this salt blend collection ($24) to your kitchen's arsenal. Produced by Didi Davis, an Ipswich purveyor of artisanal sugar and salt blends, this handy stack transforms the simplest of seasonings into something special. Available at Black Ink (101 Charles Street, Boston, 617.723.3883), the eight-pack of different salts features flavors like fennel thyme, porcini, vanilla, sumac pepper, and smoked paprika. So if you do know your way around a spice rack, these sophisticated salts will only make your meals more delectable. And as for the rest of us? We're only a pinch or two away from palatable.