Weekly A to Z, January 18th.
The judgmental one. 👩⚖️
While I’m optimistic about the upcoming ceasefire (set to go into effect on Sunday — even with hundreds killed since the announcement), Palestine remains occupied, and other countries continue to be affected. 🍉
It was an easy, balanced week (no complaints). There was a bit of man-flu at home, but Mr. Wright has recovered (although he may have shared it with me, ugh).
On Tuesday, for the record, when motivated, I can get ready and be at a restaurant in just over an hour if invited. In this instance, it was the Henri Giraud dinner at Takahisa. With a beautiful pairing of champagnes and a fabulous omakase selection, I was also able to try the new private dining room (definitely worth a visit). #invited
On Thursday, I took an opportunity to dine at Sexy Fish for lunch. It’s a large venue with plenty of fun accents, including a bathroom that could rival the one at Josette. If you go for lunch (or dinner), ask for an outdoor seat while the weather is nice. #invited
On Friday, Chef James Knight-Pacheko, Chef Rahul Rana, and I (and others) were asked to judge the YouthX competition (part of Gulfood). It’s always wonderful to witness young talent in the city, and we had a difficult decision to make! I think it’s essential to connect with the next generation, and I was delighted to be a part of the day; I honestly believe the two best teams, SLS and the Grosvenor House, are the right teams to represent the UAE in the finals. Did I have a bite of 30 different dishes? I did.
Catch up with everything in the week that was (8).
Links, please.
Spinney’s annual trend report is well worth reading (and you might catch some ideas from yours truly). Spinneys
Don’t think I didn’t order each one. MoMa
Pizzeria charges $199 for a Hawaiian to discourage customers from divisive topping. SMH
Yes, a deviled egg flight. The Takeout
The kid factor: how a generation’s dining disconnect threatens the restaurant industry. NRN
If you could invent a holiday, what would you celebrate? Cup of Jo
An interesting read: wine as a momento mori. Decanter
What is your go-to comfort food? GFY
Why have an espresso martini when you can make it a tiramisu? The Takeout
Fredagsmys: sign me up for Swedish Friday nights. Bustle
Going into the Year of the Snake in an adorable way. MoMa
Has TikTok made us better? Or much, much worse? Vox
Life hack: how to get fresh fast food fries. The Takeout
True story: there’s no wrong way to enjoy a martini. Wine Enthusiast
A tuna as big as a grizzly. Washington Post
How much do animals think about death? Undark
I always want to know more about rum and Cokes. The Takeout
In case you’re really into Peeps flavors. Snack and Bakery
This restaurant/chef has banned Michelin inspectors. The Independent
Talk to me about better condiment packaging. The Takeout
I need this Tajin candy in my life (the whole range). Snak Club
The most important groceries you need in a disaster. The Kitchn
A wave of significant menu changes is reshaping fast food. CNN
How to choose a better store-bought pasta. The Takeout
Who does the best business-class bedding? OMAAT
Scanning the aisles for a Wirkin. The Cut
Sign me up for potato chip charcuterie. The Kitchn
Snackification revolution: Global snacks sales to surpass $680 billion in 2024. Bakery & Snacks
10 of the world’s most expensive drinks in 2025. The Drinks Business
The rise in ‘flaking’ out of social plans. (AN: I never mind this). The Guardian
Sarcasm makes you smarter and more creative. Inc.
This weekend? I’m finally heading over to Manao. I’ve heard nothing but wonderful things, so I’m really looking forward to the experience. Also, it’s been forever since I’ve been to Ripe Market — what’s good?
Next week? As of now, easy peasy. With the World’s 50 Best MENA at the end of the month, I’m storing energy (or doing my best to do so).
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.
Thoughts and prayers to Mr Wright during this difficult time.