Weekly A to Z, January 25th.
The calm before the storm one.
I started the week on such a high note. If you haven’t been to Manao, this is your sign to go (and yes, you definitely need to book in advance). Chefs Orfali and Abhiraj have a modern take on Thai food that you need to experience. While I had several favorites from the current tasting menu, the Lobster Khanom Krok is out of this world. If you’ve been, I’d love to hear your top dish. #invited
For the remainder of the week, I volunteered at K9 and worked from home. On Friday, I was well overdue for a catch-up with Dalia, so I happily accepted an invitation to meet her at her Zinn Cafe (@ Studio Republik). If you’re looking for a cafe to work in, this is the spot. Chill music, great service, and original food — order a crepe and thank me later (then take cookies for the road).
Some deliveries? A surprise French basket from the teams at La Maison Anu, Maison de la Plage, and La Petite Ani. #gifted
The week that was (9). Also, a property tour of my visit to the Four Seasons Maldives.
Links, please.
Ever wonder what I’m up to all day? Wonder no more. Substack
Support local business: book tickets to the Al Quoz Arts Fest this weekend. Platinum List
And get tickets to see friend Helen Farmer at EAFOL!
Baz Luhrmann’s New East Village bar. Vogue
Winter dining and why you should be a regular. Resy
What IS the difference between Diet Coke and Coke Zero? The Takeout
Also, what is the difference between wine grapes and table grapes? Wine Enthusiast
Misophonia be damned, why slurping is essential when eating ramen. Times of India
This (categorically) is the worst fork. Food & Wine
Oreo x Post Malone. The Takeout
Sign me up for more Bloody Marys. Instagram
Why do we keep our father’s last name? The Atlantic
Some films featuring iconic drinks moments. The Drinks Business
Loving these Year of The Snake-themed dinner plates. Wing On Wo
Some (very good) rules for Modern Life.
And some rules for fine dining. Food Republic
(And what to do if you drop your silverware in a nice restaurant). Food Republic
How much can you save by participating in Dry January? CNBC
Do we actually like our food? (Studies say no). CNN
Why did we start drinking animal milk? LitHub
After this week, I’ll take a Grilled Threesus. TikTok
And maybe some cheese on the go. The Takeout
The ketchup conundrum. New Yorker
Why is toro so expensive? The Takeout
Love these dumpling bowls! Target
Have you also had enough of stemware? Decanter
The EK halo effect. OMAAT
Cinnamon Toast Crunch pizza cereal? The Takeout
I have a mighty need. Rifle Paper Co.
Which airline has the cheapest drinks and snacks? The Takeout
Would you try a pickle sandwich? Food & Wine
The science behind getting a good night’s sleep in a hotel. NatGeo
TikTok changed how we cook food. What would happen if the ban went through? NYT
This weekend? Lots of choices!
Next week? I’ll be filming with Laura, then attending the big event! The World’s 50 Best MENA takes place on Tuesday, and I hope to see many of you there. Do you have any predictions? Let me know! Follow along on my Instagram channel for all the latest updates.
Also, we’ll also say goodbye to one of our beloved Bookers as she returns to her home country. The reality of being an expat is that you always have to say goodbye to someone, but with WhatsApp and a thriving IG group chat/meme-sharing club, I know we’ll never be far apart (and there’s always one last Pitfire pizza to share).
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