Weekly A to Z, February 1st.
The one with the World's 50 Best MENA awards. 🍉
(It’s finally February.)
I’m so damn proud of this city.
Tuesday night saw many of us in Abu Dhabi at the Erth Hotel for the World’s 50 Best MENA awards. It was a very proud evening for the UAE, with the majority of the restaurants in the top spots hailing from Dubai. Tresind Studio — my employer, full disclosure — retained the #2 spot, with Orfali Bros keeping their well-earned #1 spot for a third year. I was personally delighted to see Row on 45 jump up, Jun’s do the same, and Kinoya recognized at #3. Also, Takahisa finally made the list! Beyond the UAE, there was a lot of talent recognized in Morocco and Jordan, which would be high on my list for a foodie-focused trip. How do you feel about the awards this year? I’d love to know!
On Thursday, the Bookers came out to Emaar South to send off one of our own, with Pitfire Pizza and prosecco. Being an expat has its successes and wins, but saying goodbye to friends is the biggest downside.
Some deliveries? Dilmah sent through a range of beautiful teas, which was appreciated. And the FlowWow team sent through some of their Valentine’s range. Their romantic lineup features unique local blooms, gourmet chocolates, and bespoke treats, designed to celebrate love in all its forms. #gifted
Links, please.
Your new World’s 50 Best MENA list. Congratulations to all — I’m very proud to know many of those in the Top 50, and looking forward to see what shakes out in June. W50B
Simon Ritchie catches up after his first interview with Chef Himanshu 6 years ago. Dishes and Drams
Food noise is a real thing (ask me how I know). CBS News
Why are restaurants so loud? The Takeout
An excellent question: why can’t you pack a bag? New Yorker
A fairly easy way to poach an egg. Instagram
I need this kimchi stuffie. Eater
Are casinos good for tourism? Connecting Travel
How I’m going to carry my wine from now on. MoMA
How much does flying on a private jet actually cost? Afar
I will take a batch, please and thank you. Drink Viacarota
The world is kind of a mess; here’s a great list of rewatchable movies. Lifehacker
The Bookers discussed having a jacket potato party. Bookmarking this for later. NYT
What five recipes are in your arsenal? Cup of Jo
How to be a foodie in 2025. The Guardian
Finally, soup you can suck. Kottke
Does your life need more glitter pickles? The Takeout
Can (heterosexual) marriage ever really be equal? The Atlantic
Air fryers emit less indoor air pollution than other cooking methods (just another reason to love them). Salon
Why is pule the most expensive cheese in the world? The Takeout
Super Bowl snacks. Bon Appetit
Heavy drinkers are keeping the alcohol industry afloat. WSJ
Six basic knife cuts everyone should know. LifeHacker
Girl Scout cookies, ranked. Food & Wine
Aesthetic bins. Eater
Steps to get the most from a sushi buffet. The Takeout
Unique drink trends for 2025. The Drinks Business
Favorite dishes in January (the longest month ever)? Reif’s Asian tagliolini was incredible, as was the lobster Khanom Krok from Manao — for a final dish, it’s difficult to choose (especially since I tried 30 different dishes at the YouthX competition in one day), but the winners (the Grovesnor House and SLS teams, respectively) really did put up the best plates. Do you have any favorites?
This weekend? Relaxation station.
Next week? Would you believe I’ve never been to SushiSamba? (!) I’m heading over for a four-hand omakase on Tuesday and looking forward to it. Wishing the best of luck to those nominated for the upcoming G&M Awards.
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Wait, you've never been to Sushisamba?