The styling and atmosphere in this store is always appealing, albeit intimidating, and you’ll be hypnotized by pricey pots and pans and kitchen electronics. But suck it up and make the investment in these items upfront rather than buying cheaper versions. A good set of will last you forever. So will good-quality kitchen equipment by a trusted brand. However, just buy what you need and what you’ll use. Do you really need an espresso/cappucino maker? For $5,000?

Target is a great place to buy basic, brand-name kitchen small appliances without getting confused by too many bells and whistles. Target also carries a great variety of cook’s tools and servingware, and always has fun seasonal entertaining goodies on hand, too.

Ikea will be in probably every single one of my guides, so get used to it. But you simply cannot, cannot beat this place for tons of white dishware and glasses on the cheap. Stock up on these basics here and you’re good forever. Big-mouth tumblers and little juice glasses are classic and sturdy, and you won’t need to buy a new set of plates every couple years – white is timeless and goes with everything.

While you’re here, set aside time to browse through their kitchen accessories section where you’ll go bonkers over tons of canisters and gadgets, all at unbelieveable prices.

Excuse me while I drool all over your clean countertops. Not only does Anthro sell butterfly-inducing clothes, but a gorgeous line of home goods, too. Really unique and vintage-y dishware abounds, if you ahbor simple and want to go full-out cool. And what’s a kitchen diva without an apron? Anthro carries some of the prettiest around.

Urban’s is getting in on the cool kitchen stuff bandwagon and seems to have expanded it’s line of serveware and gadgets. Go here to add some humor and kitsch to your kitchen.

We all know about Whole Foods. And it’s a known fact that some of the best stuff can be found here. Sure, you’re going to pay – this place ‘aint cheap – but you’ll impress your friends with obscure ingredients, magazine-worthy produce, and lovely cuts of meat. And the store’s own 365 brand is a great go-to for basics.

Rent a Zipcar and head on up to Stonewall Kitchen to stock your cupboards full of amazingly tasty condiments. They also carry a line of Barefoot Contessa-brand food products which are supposed to be fabulous, as well as lovely linens and kitchen accessories.

...And while you’re in Portsmouth, zip over to Philbrick’s. This is a locally-owned alternative to chains like Whole Foods, but with an absolutely amazing array of high-quality grocery items, organic foods, naturally raised meats, seafood, even wines and beer.