Capalbo's Gift Baskets Review: Premium Gourmet Gifting for Any Occasion

What We Like

1. Fresh Fruit Combined with Gourmet Foods

Capalbo's signature baskets combine hand-selected fresh fruit with gourmet foods like artisanal cheeses, premium chocolates, smoked meats, crackers, and dried fruits. The combination of fresh and shelf-stable items gives recipients both immediate enjoyment and items they can savor over days. You won't find generic grocery-store fruit here -- each piece is selected for quality and presentation.

2. Nationwide Delivery with Care

Operating since 1966, Capalbo's has their shipping logistics dialed in. They use special packaging to protect perishable items during transit and deliver nationwide across the continental US. Most baskets arrive within 1-3 business days. For time-sensitive occasions like birthdays or holidays, reliable delivery is essential -- and Capalbo's delivers (literally).

3. Elegant Presentation

Gift baskets are as much about presentation as content. Capalbo's arranges their baskets in attractive wicker containers, wooden crates, or decorative boxes with ribbons and tissue. When the recipient opens the door, the visual impact is immediate. These baskets look like gifts, not care packages.

4. Wide Price Range ($40 to $200+)

Whether you need a thoughtful $40 fruit basket for a neighbor or a $200+ premium gourmet spread for a corporate client, Capalbo's has options at every budget level. The lower-priced baskets still look generous and well-assembled. You can also add personalized messages and upgrade options.

What to Consider

1. Perishable Items Require Attention

Fresh fruit and certain gourmet foods are perishable. The recipient needs to be available to receive and refrigerate items promptly. This isn't ideal for surprise deliveries when you're unsure if someone will be home. Shelf-stable alternatives (like candy or snack baskets) might be safer for uncertain delivery situations.

2. US Shipping Only

Capalbo's ships within the continental United States only. If your recipient is international, you'll need to look elsewhere. This is understandable given the perishable nature of the products, but it limits the audience.

3. Seasonal Availability

Some premium fruit varieties and gourmet items are seasonal. The exact contents of your basket may vary based on what's fresh and available. While Capalbo's always substitutes with equivalent-quality items, you can't always guarantee the exact composition shown online.

Who It's Best For

How to Gift a Capalbo's Basket

1. Click our link below to visit the Capalbo's website.
2. Browse by occasion or category. They have dedicated sections for fruit baskets, gourmet baskets, sympathy gifts, corporate orders, and more.
3. Select your basket and enter the recipient's shipping address. Add a personalized message card at checkout.
4. Choose your delivery date. Standard delivery is 1-3 business days. Express options available for last-minute gifts.
5. Optional: Notify the recipient. Let them know a perishable gift is arriving so they can receive it promptly.

Pricing Breakdown

Capalbo's offers several tiers to fit different budgets:

Alternatives

If Capalbo's doesn't feel quite right, consider:

• Harry & David -- Premium fruit and gourmet baskets. Higher price point but well-known brand. Subscription boxes available.
• Edible Arrangements -- Fresh fruit arrangements (fruit carved into flower shapes). More visual impact, shorter shelf life.
• zChocolat -- Luxury French chocolate in mahogany boxes. Ships worldwide. Best if the recipient is a chocolate lover specifically.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does shipping take?

Standard delivery is 1-3 business days within the continental US. Express shipping options are available for time-sensitive occasions. Orders placed before the cutoff time typically ship same day.

Can I add a personal message?

Yes. Every basket includes a complimentary personalized message card. You can write your message during checkout. Some premium baskets also offer ribbon customization.

What if a fruit item is out of season?

Capalbo's substitutes with equivalent-quality items of equal or greater value. The goal is always to deliver a basket that meets or exceeds what's shown online. Specific fruit requests can sometimes be accommodated -- contact their customer service.

Do they offer corporate/bulk discounts?

Yes. Capalbo's has a dedicated corporate gifting program with volume discounts, custom branding, and the ability to ship to multiple addresses. Contact them directly for corporate pricing.

What's the return/refund policy?

Due to the perishable nature of the products, returns are handled on a case-by-case basis. If a basket arrives damaged or doesn't meet quality standards, Capalbo's customer service will work with you on a replacement or refund.

Final Verdict

Capalbo's delivers on the promise of premium gourmet gifting. With nearly 60 years in the business, they know how to assemble and ship beautiful fruit and food baskets that arrive fresh and look impressive. The wide price range ($40 to $200+) means there's something for every budget, and their nationwide delivery is reliable.

The main limitations are US-only shipping and the need for someone to receive perishable items promptly. But if your recipient is stateside and available, a Capalbo's basket is a thoughtful, elegant gift that shows genuine care. It's hard to go wrong with fresh fruit, fine cheese, and premium chocolate beautifully arranged.