Weekly A to Z, January 11th.
The back to work one. 🗓️
As a former Angeleno, my heart breaks for the city. Here’s a great resource if you want to help.
Last weekend was spent at J1 (my first visit) to ChouChou. While I’m not sure how the location will do with the density of nearly identical beach clubs, I will say it was a perfect place for an al fresco lunch in January. The brunch starts later (2 PM) and offers eggs as a starting course (no complaints). Topped up with some Louis-Perrier, it was a very pleasurable afternoon. #invited
On Tuesday, I was out for my first dinner — Musou by Okku. The teppanyaki grill is a restaurant within a restaurant that offers a unique experience at a very fair and very filling amount of food at AED599. #invited
As a late decision, I was delighted to accept an invite to The Experience by Reif Othman, one of the restaurants I always want to visit and need to make more time for. More thoughts on this at some point during the weekend. Suffice to say, Chef Reif still has it (not that it ever went away), and it’s a great way to experience a truly unique dining experience. #invited
On the topic, Reif Othman continues expanding his portfolio — this time in the form of delivery. Available exclusively on Deliveroo, Kushi by Reif offers plenty of Asian favorites (and we were lucky enough to get easy-to-share boxes). Also, The Luminary Set was sent as a SUPER helpful gift — a new gimbal and microphone set, which I can’t wait to start using. Finally, Manaret Beirut has a new location in Motor City, opening next week, and were kind enough to send through a cute photo. #gifted
Links, please.
A must-listen episode — Emma Banks! JKP Podcast
Gucci Osteria x Tresind Studio. Instagram
Having previously worked on a train, I’m always excited to learn about exciting new luxury train journeys. 🚂 CNN
How a homemade snack empowered Indian women. BBC
The technology that actually runs our world. The Atlantic
Okay, this is beautiful. My Modern Met
For the title: the insufferable floating breakfast. Washington Post
Do we need a Friends-themed cereal? Probably. The Kitchn
BRB: I’m in the fancy matches stage of my life. Archivist
The significance of bread lines in Syria. NPR
Why do we sleep better at hotels? (For me, it REALLY depends on the hotel — Four Seasons are my best fit). AFAR
Alcohol and the gut: friends or foes? Saveur
Okay, this is brilliant. TikTok
Not interested in a fried crust sandwich (and other trends). Grub Street
Talk to me about the perfect packed lunch. Go Fug Yourself
Yes, I would try a shot in the middle of my meal. It’s French, after all. Punch
The people have spoken: more ranch dressing. NRN
Would you ride the world’s steepest cable car? Connecting Travel
When is a restaurant a bistro? The Takeout
How do we feel about a reusable pizza box? Eater
Dubai international tourist numbers are up! Connecting Travel
Why is ginger served with sushi always pink? The Takeout
Who actually owns the term ‘Dry January?’ The Drinks Business
I *need* these birthday cards in my life. Wish Cards
I might also need this super fancy cup. Over the Moon
And this super cute sardine set. Cost Plus World Market
And on the topic of sardines. Julia Quinn
What does VSOP mean when buying a cognac? Wine Enthusiast
Unsurprisingly, the UAE prefers premium travel. Connecting Travel
Do nothing with loved ones (it’s good for you). Self
The rise of Hip Hop in coffee culture. Food Beast
This weekend? Some cleaning and buying of things. Probably watching college football.
Next week? I’ll be heading out to check out Sexy Fish and joining the judging panel at YouthX.
If you enjoy this newsletter, consider working with me, purchasing my books (including these novels), or buying me a Cosmo. 🍸 Also, a reminder is that a subscription to support this newsletter is only $30 per year—or (only) $2.50 monthly. If you open the Weekly A to Z every week, please consider subscribing.
C.
❤️ If you enjoyed this post, please click the like button — it helps others discover my content!
🔁 Similarly, feel free to share or repost this if you think others in your network might enjoy this post.
💬 And finally, I always love a comment! What was your favorite link this week?
Archives of the Weekly A to Z can be found here.