Abstract: A method and apparatus for applying images to food items, such as toast, includes a controllable at least one controllable heating elements directed to as to be disposed along a surface of an associated food item. The heating element is controllable along the surface in accordance with stored image data to apply the image to a food item. Image data is receivable from a data device such as a smart phone, tablet or computer either via a direct data connection or via a wide area network such as the Internet. Images are retrievable in accordance with payment or sponsorship.