Another busy week in Dubai!
Some deliveries in the form of an incredible array from Magnolia Bakery, now open in my hood at Springs Souk. I also received a perfectly themed Valentine’s gift in the form of the Kylie Minogue wine collection from MMI. Taste Estonia sent through a whole hamper of treats — you should definitely try and visit their stand at Gulfood next week. And because fondue is one of my ultimate weaknesses, I was delighted to receive a fondue kit from Publique, which I will be delighted to make this weekend. Also, with a cheeky plate from Le Petit Beefbar, my emoji plate collection grows (and I have no problems with this). #gifted
In addition to working on my Dubai Food Festival commitments (have you contacted me yet…?), I filmed episodes for my upcoming series with Dubai Tourism, which I cannot wait to share with you. This week featured the culinary talents of Chef Soleman, Chef Himanshu, and Chef Domenico.
I went to The Macallan event on Thursday at Bulgari. In advance of the evening, I used the opportunity to stop into Il Ristorante Niko Romito. Was I able to sample some of Dario’s new cocktails? I was (spoiler alert: they are creative and delicious). Did the Il Ristorante team spoil me (as usual)? They did. #invited
Links, please.
Rikas Group with a great event to support efforts in Turkie and Syria.
I’m so proud of Jean and the Touch team! This week, I’ve been following her current adventures in Cambodia. With their upcoming partnership with WAH, they are donating funds to support much-needed clean water machines. If possible, please consider making a donation. Reach out to Touch for further details.
The best of the 90s food commercials. Saveur
Ready to see someone step up and do this in Dubai. NRN
How to pair wine with dogs. Contadina
Here for the Jeni’s ice cream x Ted Lasso collab. Jeni’s Ice Cream
For the title: the airport security alcohol chug. VinePair
Wander is the future of travel: the guarantees of a quality hotel paired with the comforts (and space) of a home. We own 100% of the rentals on our platform, meaning we deliver high quality, smart technology, and inspiring locations with every guest. #sponsored
Would love to know your thoughts on kid-free dining. Eater
All about impostor syndrome. New Yorker
What flavor of Negroni would you like? Punch
I feel like you need to know about the Savannah Bananas. Twitter
But why is it so hard to resist temptation? Freakonomics
We need an official Super Bowl dessert. Defector
The purse of a generation. Go Fug Yourself
Lufthansa leading the way with green fares. OMAAT
Why can siblings be so different? Washington Post
Southern specific, what is the difference between dinner and supper? The Kitchn
Always want to know a good egg salad recipe. Joy the Baker
A primer on food and wine pairings. Robb Report
This weekend? Hiking, I hope!
Next week? You’ll see me out and about. I’m over to DXB Today on Tuesday for some co-hosting duties and then finishing the remaining episodes for Dubai Tourism. We’re filming with Chef Kelvin and Chef Burcu. The Bookers are also meeting up at Josette (and we’re all ready to press the champagne button), and I’m going to check out the recently reopened Atmosphere!
Looking ahead, I’m super excited to be finalizing my first press trip of the year. Any guesses where I’ll be going?
If you enjoy this newsletter and want to support me, consider sharing this newsletter on social media, ordering from these restaurants, purchasing my books (or these novels — all free to read on Kindle Unlimited), or buying me coffee. Archives of the Weekly A to Z can be found here.
C.