I did the thing. If you know any younger readers, please consider ordering a copy for them. Your support is appreciated!
In other big news, I changed my Instagram handle. While I realize this isn’t life-changing for anyone else but yours truly, I’ve logged in for 5 years as @atozaatar, so I’m still getting used to the new name (_courtneybrandt_ if you’re interested — one of the other 23 Courtney’s must’ve taken the better iterations of our name). Why did I make the change? I think when I started, everyone had some sort of online ‘identity.’ Now? I don’t feel like I need it. The people I need to know, know me. While I will continue to be ‘Courtney from A to Za’atar’ as it’s still very much part of my brand, I’m proud of the things I’ve written as Courtney Brandt, and would rather lead with that name on social media. The part no one tells you about? Re-linking everywhere where @atozaatar used to live… Speaking of which, in case you aren’t already:
After some delicious karaage at Wawa Dining this weekend, I was fully back into Dubai life this week, starting with a Macallan event on Sunday evening (have a quick peek here). Special thanks to Dan for saving me from any real networking (oops). On Monday, I was over to Reform to try some of the new-ish (mini) Yorkshire puddings (!), which I would happily order again. #invited
On Tuesday, Moishi sent me lunch, featuring their new air and summer rolls, which are lighter alternatives. The air roll is wrapped in lettuce and rice paper (instead of nori), and the summer roll contains no rice filling — so, carb-free! #gifted
On Wednesday, my fellow bon vivants and I went over to Isola Ristorante, conveniently located in Jumeirah Islands (the commute was six minutes). As usual, there wasn’t enough time to catch up. Price points seemed high, but given the neighborhood, I’m sure the venue will probably do fine. I might recommend a separate seating area for kids… #invited
Also, unabashedly listening and watching Outer Banks S2 while I get back into my next novel, happily moving towards 40K this week.
Links, please.
Congratulations, Claudia. Instagram
Lindsay & Co. are back on the Vine Trail. The Tasting Class
Loved seeing all the local success stories in this month’s Entrepreneur Middle East.
For the pasta lover in your life. The Takeout
Do you have main character energy? Bustle
New (genius) plan for guests. Eater
With so many apps, why are we still unproductive? Wired
Turn your cheddar crackers into ice cream cones. Food and Wine
What was your favorite dining hall food? (A: Banana pudding, and I miss O-House.) The Takeout
I have no reason to want this, but I do. Airport Tag
Linking just for the combination of words: Guy Fieri Chevrolet Apple Pie Hot Dog. The Takeout
Wonder if anyone’s stolen mine. Vice
Ranch isn’t a dressing, it’s a lifestyle. Taste
I get Botox, so does just about every woman (of a certain age) I know. Let’s keep talking about it. The Cut
V. important question. The Takeout
At the intersection of graphic design and GMOs. The Counter
Is there a discontinued food you enjoy? Jezebel
Very proud I work from my desk (and not my bed). Axios
Americans are the worst. The Atlantic
What does climate change mean for food security? The Takeout
What do you eat when you’re stressed? (A: Salty carbs.) The Takeout
Vacation dads. Mel Magazine
We’re enjoying the long weekend by catching up with some of the besties (and proudly celebrating Nic’s magazine cover) and seeing the other besties’ new place in Jumeirah. Next week looks a bit quiet, and I’m happy to keep it that way.
If you enjoy this newsletter, consider telling a friend, purchasing my books (and these books), or buying me a coffee.
C.