Weekly A to Z, February 22nd.
The one with local love (involving Chef Alain Ducasse). 🍫
On Monday, I did a little exploring with my sister (sans enfants) at Al Serkal, which was (of course) so much fun. We also enjoyed a fabulous lunch at La Cantine beach club (on Bluewaters). 10/10 would recommend — perfect al fresco dining, and I encourage you to visit before the weather heats up too much. #invited
On Tuesday, for the only time I was able to sneak out for Gulfood activities, I decided to accept an invitation to meet Chef Alain Ducasse, who was cooking with the Takahisa team. Also, I was delighted to make a small Dubai connection with the legendary chef! Whenever I attend collabs or press trips, I usually bring a small box of Mirzam chocolate as a token of appreciation. Presenting the chocolates at lunch, I was surprised at how delighted Chef Ducasse was with the treat. So thrilled, in fact, that he wanted to go visit the factory! With a little help, I connected him with Kathy, and here’s the result.
That evening, I was also able to step out with the Bookers to Smoki Moto. Wow, I think we all missed the memo to come (really, really) hungry. Definitely best for a group, this is a fun spot for Korean BBQ. Order the Butcher’s Box and you won’t be disappointed. #invited
Throughout the week, I made my first visits to OliOli and Green Planet. We also had a long stroll around Dubai Mall, which I haven’t been to in ages. It was also the perfect time to visit Time Out Market Dubai. It shouldn’t come as a surprise, but Pitfire, Jun’s, and Pickl were all hits with the out of town crowd.
Links, please.
If you find yourself without plans this week, Carnistore has an awesome street food set up with SO many of my favorite chefs. Instagram
I had some things to say with Laura and the foodics team. Instagram
Why diners and chefs are turning away from Michelin. Robb Report
Has the savory martini gone too far? Wine Enthusiast
Needed for my next trip. Visit AG
Is it okay to take your kids out of school to travel? Afar
Feeling words to support your spouse. Very Well Mind
Why should we care where our paper comes from? Dieline
Do I need a tinyPod? NYMag
The cutest fish sticks. Instagram
And additional food-themed candles. Eater
These words do not belong together: Extra Flamin’ Hot Cookie Dough & Gelato Bites. Mental Floss
James Bond drinking. The Drinks Business
Walmart turns food waste into compost. Trellis
Easier said than done, how not to take things personally. Self
The world’s top hospitality school has a Michelin restaurant on campus. Hotels Above Par
How low are airline catering budgets? OMAAT
A case for an adult field trip. The Everygirl
Africa’s first caviar is surprising the luxury food industry. CNN
Where is the fanciest KFC? The Takeout
Would you eat a pineapple mayo sandwich? BonAppetit
Or try Totino’s ramen noodles? All Recipes
Juicy Couture x Dunkin’ Tracksuits. Dunkin Donuts
Krispy Kreme x Hulu. Krispy Kreme
This weekend? Is it even a trip to Dubai if you haven’t been to a brunch? We’re all looking forward to checking out Bubbalicious at the Westin, and somehow it’s almost the last day in Dubai for our visitors.
Next week? I’m getting right back into things, slowly, but I’ve got my eye on The Guild.
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