We all have a friend who is totally worthless in the kitchen.  Actually, if you don’t have a friend like that, read on, because I have enough friends who meet that description to share at least one of mine with you.

The gift recommendation that I’m about to make for him is rather expensive, so be prepared.  I assure you, though, that you will that it is a very sound investment on your part.  Maybe it’s your son, or nephew, or uncle or your roommate who just refuses to leave.

Try giving him a truly romantic dinner for which he never has to leave the house or apartment.  Hopefully he’ll be able to find an appropriate date with whom to share it.  When you get right down to it, nothing impresses an unsuspecting date more than an intimate dinner that the host has prepared himself (with your encouragement and careful guidance, of course.  Now, the friend I’m thinking of needs all the help he can get in this regard.  Give him specific directions for this.  You know candles, subdued music, the whole thing.

He can begin the evening with the first part of your present, a gourmet cheese for the beginning course  If he is capable of slicing a couple pears or apples, suggest that as well.  He can serve this course as a finger food or at the dining table as the formal beginning of the meal.

For the entree, present him with a certificate for a fine, gourmet lobster dinner or perhaps a surf and turf meal, if he is a beef fanatic.  Since this man needs so much help, you will want to be certain that the lobster is as fresh as possible.

Tell him to cap off the evening with a magnificent, gourmet turtle cheesecake.  Or, if he does not like chocolate, then select the more traditional New York cheesecake, decorated with a sprig of fresh mint.

If he drinks alcoholic beverages, do not trust him to choose the wine for the dinner.  Lobster is very hearty fare, so don’t be afraid to suggest he pair it with a bold wine such as a Merlot or even a Burgundy.

Now, sit back and wait for the inevitable wedding invitation.  If it doesn’t arrive within six months, just find another friend.  That will be much easier.