Bespoke Post is a monthly membership club that delivers high-quality lifestyle products from up-and-coming brands. It’s voted as one of the best men’s subscription boxes of 2021 by our readers and it’s a great box for women and couples as well.
When you sign up, there’s a quiz to determine your preferences and interests, then you’re matched with a new themed box every month. For $49 per month, each box promises at least $70 in retail value with items ranging from outdoor gear, barware, home, and kitchen goods, clothing, and more.
Unlike most subscription boxes, you get to preview your Bespoke Post box before it ships and you can easily swap for a different box or skip the month for no charge. You only pay for the months that interest you.
This is a review of the "Sizzle" box.
This box was sent to us at no cost for review. (Check out our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes.)
First Impressions
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Bespoke Post always has good presentation. Their boxes – or in this case, tape – are instantly recognizable. I like that they have the perfect box or bag for any item you order. This was the biggest box I have received from them. The box typically comes with a card to let you know what's inside and a little bit about each item. This time they give you a tip about using leftover rice. While I like the tip, I feel like it was a missed opportunity to include a recipe for the perfect stir fry.
Inside the Bespoke Post "Sizzle" Box
Joyce Chen 12-inch Stir Fry Pan - Retail Price $33.69
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I love Asian food. I could seriously eat it every meal of every day. Cooking it, however, has always been a little lackluster for me. I have a couple OK recipes to save money, but I still get take-out a lot. Like, a lot a lot. While I don't think a different pan will help itself, I'm hoping this new stir fry pan from Joyce Chen will provide a little inspiration. This is a 12-inch, professional carbon steel stir fry pan. Great for sautéing, deep frying, steaming with a bamboo steamer (see below), and, of course, stir fry. And even though I don't have a place in my kitchen to hang it it, I love that it has a sturdy eyelet at the end of the ergonomical handle for storing it in such a manner. My pan had a couple rub marks inside and outside. Not a big deal, but felt I should mention it.
It comes unseasoned, so you'll need to spend a little extra time clean and preparing it before its first use. And, of course, there is additional care to take after each use. It can't be put in the dishwasher or cleaned with dish soap. That would ruin the coating and force you to season the pan again. Simply use hot water with a scouring pan immediately after use and apply a light coating of oil to prevent rusting. I must admit that I do not typically like extra responsibilities, but I have to say I am quite excited to use this pan.
Note: If seasoning isn't your thing, there is also a non-stick version of this pan here for $49.99
Joyce Chen 2-piece 10-inch Bamboo Steamer Basket - Estimated Price $20
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This bamboo steamer was actually the selling point for me. I have always wanted one and now it's time to make use of it. It can be placed over a pot or directly into a pan, such as the one above. You can also stack multiple levels, which the steam will rise up through. You can steam veggies, dumplings, rice, anything really. And then it doubles as a serving tray. I think it's a really cool, traditional way of steaming and can't wait to use it.
Note: I estimated this price, because I cannot find a 2-piece set online. The 3-piece set is for sale here and costs $29.00.
Kadoya Pure Sesame Oil (5.5 Oz.)- Retail Price $6.13
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Kadoya is my go-to sesame oil for all my Asian cooking. I actually prefer the hot sesame oil, but either way the aroma is fantastic and, for me, nostalgic. My grandmother was Asian and the smell of this oil transports me back to her house where she cooked for our family. Great stuff. Couldn't suggest it more.
Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Crisp - Retail Price $8
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While I am very familiar with the sesame oil, I have never use or heard of Lao Gan Ma's Spicy Chili Crisp. It sounds like something I will enjoy and look forward to cooking with it. From the sounds of some of the reviews, you can use it in anything: omelets, noodles, or, apparently, right out of the jar.
Joyce Chen Bamboo Cooking Chopsticks - Estimated Price $6.99
And finally, no good Asian cuisine is cooked without a good set of chopsticks. Included in this box was a set of 13-inch bamboo cooking chopsticks, also from Joyce Chen. I often use chopsticks for other kinds of cooking. They are smart and versatile. But I have actually never used "cooking" chopsticks. They are nice because you don't have to get so close to the hot pan. Smart.
Note: I couldn't find these for sale on the official website. So I found a similar pair on Amazon here for $6.99.
Verdict
On the first of the month, Bespoke Post chooses a box for you to receive, which you can easily change if you don't like it. "Sizzle" is the first time that I stuck with the suggestion they made for me. I felt like I received so much. Although I have yet to season my pan, I'm truly excited to use it to cook and feel inspired to try a proper stir fry. The steam basket is so cool. I think it will impress my guests when I use it. The chopsticks, oil, and sauce were a perfect additions to the main items. "Sizzle" was a well rounded and impressive box. I am beyond happy with my choice this month. Bespoke Post knocked it out of the park.
Let's Talk About Value
All these items clock in at an estimated $77. That's more than $27 more than the subscription's cost. That's not a bad savings and it's in line with what Bespoke Post promises. I'm actually surprised it wasn't more with all the stuff that came in the box. I guess I would have liked a three-piece steamer to up the price even more, but it is by no means a complaint. These are awesome items that I have always wanted and am psyched to have gotten them at a savings. With the money I saved, I can buy all the ingredients I need for a serious stir fry.
Important note: Starting March 1, the price of Bespoke Post is increasing from $45 to $49 and shipping is going from $3.95 to $4.95 (with a few other price changes that do not affect our reviews).
To Wrap Up
Can you still get this box if you sign up today? Yes, the "Sizzle" is available at the time of this post.
Keep Track of Your Subscriptions: Add this box to your subscription list or wishlist.
What do you think of the "Sizzle" Bespoke Post box? Let us know in the comments below.
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