The previous weekend kicked off in style as the Cocktail Maestro, aka Salvatore Calabrese — the gentleman who invented the Breakfast Martini — decided to personally offer me one at the Alici pop-up (it’s delicious, BTW). I followed that event and went to Attiko and enjoyed dinner with a view (and fireworks, because this is Dubai, after all). On Sunday, I *highly* recommend a visit to the Weekend Rituals menu at Jun’s, which is the perfect chilled-out, delicious experience you want it to be. In the best possible way, it’s an anti-brunch (complete with an Usher-heavy soundtrack, to the delight of this elder millennial).
Recovering from the weekend, it was a very steady week! On Wednesday, I made my way to Coya after six years (oops), which was a lovely experience. Check out our lunch here. #invited
Thursday saw me at Spinneys HQ for the Warburton Toastie challenge, full of talented local teams, and such a fun evening seeing friends from all over the F&B scene. #invited
And Friday was packed, starting with a trip to the Dubai One studio, then over to Atlantis the Royal (!!!) to meet Jose Andres (!!!!) at Jaleo. I then dialed in for my latest Dubai Eye update.
Links, please.
I was on Dubai One! One of my first memories when moving to Dubai in 2007 was watching this channel, so I was super excited to join the team in the studio to chat about all things food. Link coming soon.
Ready for this lineup at BOCA! Instagram
My latest with The Tasting Class x Jacob’s Creek. More projects with Stasha, please — she’s amazing! Instagram
Please consider registering your restaurant or culinarily related experience with Dubai byFood.
You okay, Michelin? 👀 Michelin
Don’t worry; Liam sorted them out. FACT
That burger from The Menu. People
Valentine’s Day Friends-themed conversation hearts. Tasting Table
It’s always okay not to drink. HuffPost
Create amazing (free) content and designs quickly with Canva. I use the platform for everything from invoices to headers. #sponsored
In the mood for these. Target
15 things you should know about Bollinger. VinePair
Upgraded Rice Krispy treats. 😍 Instagram
Fairly certain I need this Bailey’s puffer. The Kitchn
Liking this Sunday routine. Camille Styles
I’d love to get super domestic and make these. Food & Wine
These hotels want you to sleep better. Afar
What does a hobby feel like? Pocket
Where is the oldest grapevine in the world? Tasting Table
Winemaking at-home kits? VinePair
Upcycling McDonald’s bags. Dieline
The pizza box needs a design upgrade. Atlantic
This weekend? Meeting Chef Nobu Matsuhisa (!) for a sushi-making masterclass, followed by a cocktail class, all in the newly opened bridge suite at Atlantis. I’m also popping to my closest MMI. Now that the 30% municipality tax on all alcoholic beverages across town, I’m curious to see how the prices translate. (Transparently, I’ve received a gift certificate for my visit).
Next week? With a lot on in the coming weeks, I had to do my best to choose what was right for me, which meant turning down some fabulous opportunities. What did I decide on? I’ll be checking out the new new at Josette, the latest collab at Tresind Studio, and a meal with Chef Mauro at Celebrities.
Looking ahead — I can’t believe we’re just over a week from the MENA’s World’s 50 Best Awards! I’m so looking forward to setting up at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi (#invited) and attending some of the talks and attending the big event on the 30th. I can’t wait to see many of you in the capital!
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C.
There’s SO MUCH going on right now! Thanks for sharing the link 🙏🏾 and see you at Studio! 🕺🏼