No, not all mugs are created equal. Trust me… I’ve collected a healthy assortment of mismatched hand-me-downs, freebies, and random airport finds over the years. Well, I finally decided to upgrade to a pair of gorgeous, handmade, matching (!) mugs from editor-favorite brand East Fork. And let me tell you: I’ll never go back to any other mug. This thing is a game changer. Now I understand why this special piece of pottery has earned its own hashtag (#TheMug), and also why it’s constantly selling out.

Straight from the box, I fell in love with my set of two mugs. With a 12-ounce capacity, a thick handle designed to feel like an extension of your hand, and substantive, chip-proof construction, this is the only mug I want to use every day for my morning coffee or afternoon tea. Available in four neutral core shades as well as special seasonal colorways, these pieces are minimalist and unique. Like the rest of East Fork’s pottery, this mug is handmade in Asheville, North Carolina, so each piece has an ever-so-slightly different glaze. They look like little pieces of art (because they are). I should also mention that these mugs are both dishwasher and microwave safe, which makes them practical, everyday pieces. 

Several Kitchn editors also own East Fork pieces and can confirm that they’re built to last. I actually now look for an excuse to whip out these mugs for tea time with friends or to carve out a little moment of relaxation for myself. They look as gorgeous nestled in my cupboard as they do on my kitchen table, and I’ve already gotten random compliments from coworkers on Zoom calls (I own the warm Utah glaze). 

The perfect gift for yourself or for a coffee- or tea-loving friend, I recommend stocking up on a couple of these coveted mugs while you still can. As I mentioned before, these bad boys tend to sell out, so now is the time to strike. Thanks for finally pushing me to declutter my random mug collection, East Fork! I’ve never felt like more of an adult.

Buy: East Fork The Mug, $40