Last weekend was a whirl of activity — I finished the second draft of a manuscript (70,383 words!) — and the Bookers had a cozy catch-up at Hayal (catch our visit here). On Sunday, I was over to LDC (the Jumeirah branch) for their absolutely adorable (and filling) beach basket, a chic hamper filled with everything you could possibly need for a picnic on the beach. #invited
During the week, there were also a lot of behind-the-scenes conversations, which I really enjoyed — book projects (not mine), upcoming moves and venues, restaurant concepts, recommendations, and potential events.
With Hubs in Tulum for work, there was a lot of behind-the-scenes stuff for me, including (finally) digging into a final draft of an old manuscript (currently on page 15 of 175). I also committed to some much-needed house maintenance with the always reliable team at Healthy Home (mattress! couch! rugs! car!) and a bit of self-maintenance (a haircut and color at Spirals and an overdue Botox top-up at Cornerstone Clinic).
On Thursday, I batched meetings, and started my day with a delicious breakfast at the new La Petit Beefbar, then drove over to d-Journal for an editorial catch-up and ended at Carnistore, in which I departed with some lamb bones for a delighted Poppy.
On Friday, I went to Alici for a very special cocktail event, then over to Attiko for dinner (video coming soon). #invited
Links, please.
My first for d-Journal — a series of different cuisines in Dubai and which restaurants I rate, starting with Italian restaurants. d-Journal
My latest with the Tasting Class and Jacob’s Creek at Marea. Instagram
World’s 50 Best…Hotels? W50B
Learn a new language in under a month with Babbel! Sign up today to get 55% off your subscription. #sponsored
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ll have heard Noma is closing. NYT
But not really? 👀 Noma
But is fine dining in trouble? The Takeout
Sustainability in spirits. VinePair
C’mon, Deliveroo. Twitter
Sign me up for more procrastination. Washington Post
No, M&M’s, this is not feminism. Dieline
You had me at instant ramen carbonara. Tasting Table
Which beans actually make you, y’know… 💨 Serious Eats
The logistics of getting your food to the plane. NYT
Tell me more about butter candles. I Am A Food Blog
Does being an industry professional blow out your palate? VinePair
A better choice than Jaegermeister. Epicurious
What is your dream job? Cup of Jo
How are we tipping now? Atlantic
Someone please deliver a batch. The Kitchn
This weekend? Finally taking Chef Kelvin up on his offer of brunch at Jun’s. I’ve heard amazing things, and I can’t wait to enjoy this al fresco experience.
Next week? Heading back to Coya for the first time in forever. A paella class with none other than José Andrés and my first glance of the Royal Atlantis (!) with the BonBons? It must be a perfect Friday. Also, catch me back on the radio at 4PPM with Helen.
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C.