Weekly A to Z, August 3rd. 🏅

The one where I'm excited for Q4.

Although the summer has been slow (which, to me, is a good thing), based on conversations in the past few weeks, I’m definitely looking forward to September and beyond. Q4 is already locking in with press trips, freelance opportunities, and other activations I can’t wait for.

On Wednesday, as (proud) villa owners, we’re taking the upkeep of our place seriously. The Healthy Home team arrived to do a deep clean of all of our air conditioning units (and, in case you were wondering, here’s what to look for if you think your AC should be cleaned). Given this summer’s hazy days, I feel a lot better. Also worth noting? THH has a wonderful tree/carbon offset program. Seriously, look at my planted tree! Yes, there will be a video coming soon. #gifted

Also, on Wednesday, after I my reservation was cancelled on late in the afternoon, I opted to make a return visit to Alici (home of one of my favorite dishes in the city). Why? Because I never need a reason. In case you haven’t been in awhile, I highly suggest the seasonal caviar menu. And let’s be honest, now that folly (RIP) is closed, Alici is the best spot for sundowners and sunset dining in Dubai. I was able to try a few new dishes, including a divine langoustine and caviar dish that was chilled, light, and perfectly subtle for summer. #invited

On Friday, I was happy to take a meeting at SouthPour. I’d been sent the press kit when the coffee and juice shop opened but had never been, and it was an easy spot to enjoy in Citywalk. Did I also get Pickl for takeaway after said meeting? I did. In the afternoon, I dialed in to talk to Punam for Farmer’s Kitchen (link below).

Finally, a unique delivery week (among other things — Jack Daniels and stickers!!!) from Make It Count for the upcoming Battle of the Bands at Barasti (starting this month). Plus a collection from Black Sheep Coffee, as well as an invitation from Ikayu, rounded out the week. #gifted

For the most part, I was at home editing and watching the Olympics — the respective US gymnastics teams were killing it this week!

Links, please.

• Catch me on Farmer’s Kitchen (right at the 60:00 minute mark). ARN

• The UAE is gearing up for gambling. Skift

  • Josh has continued coverage here about which brands might be able to best bring in casinos. Skift

• Dubai chefs, I want to see you plate on this. ZDG Official

• Loved seeing a profile of Dubai supper clubs! CNN

• I also loved this coverage of Jean and all she’s doing to help displaced Gazans in Egypt. Khaleej Times

• Should chefs be able to copyright their dishes? InsideHook

• Feels like Texas is getting Michelin at a bargain. Robb Report

• Watching Simone Biles at the Olympics is a gift. USA Today

• What do you wish Costco carried (but doesn’t)? Reddit

• Are you ready to create an AI version of yourself? Mashable

• Great question: why don’t more menus feature half bottles? Food & Wine

• Some food trends you’re about to see everywhere. Eat This, Not That

• Are you hyped about the Widow Cliquot film? (I am). Wine Enthusiast

• Ready to design my own Highlife poster. Clare Napper

• Are truffles the most overrated foodie indulgence? (A: Yes). Delicious

• More reasons to remain child-free. NYT

• Should I get this for our next Vegas renewal? MorningStar

• A potato chip lenticular effect. Instagram

• Yes, Olympians are super fit, but that doesn’t mean we’re unhealthy. The Guardian

• What is the perfect amount of time for a premium cabin flight? OMAAT

• Would you wear a tequila-inspired fragrance? FoodBeast

• Look, I’m not a Stanley Cup person, but this collab is kind of cute. FoodBeast

• I want this (too expensive) outdoor tray for when the pool is finished. Houses and Parties

• 25 of the most caloric fast-food menu items in the States. Eat This, Not That

• Yes, we should ban octopus farming. NPR

• Would you go to a hypnosis bar? The Drinks Business

• The worst restaurant furniture. Eater

• In appreciation of restaurant booths. LA Times

• Ruinart creates a champagne for climate change. The Drinks Business

• What going out with me looks like. TikTok

• Do you need guac-proof lip stain? NRN

• Divers discover over 100 bottles of champagne in a 19th-century shipwreck. VinePair

• The truth about carbs. Camille Styles

• T/F: the ultimate luxury is buttering your olive oil. Eater

• Love this: the first vines taking root in Burkina Faso. Decanter

• All about this roadside motel renovation trend. NYT

• How badly do I need ball-y ice? Amazon

This weekend? Delighted to be attending the Tresind Studio** x Gucci Osteria Tokyo collaboration tonight (with a cheeky drink at Chez Wam first). Keep an eye on my socials for all the dishes.

Next week? K9, packing and departing for the States! Q-Suites, here we come.

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