Alternative title: the one with no kitchen.
We’re in the middle of a much-needed kitchen demo/reno (sorry, Emaar, but your kitchens just don’t cut it), so Hubs and I have been living off of what I am affectionately calling our “craft services” table, which consists of an air-fryer, kettle, and coffee machine for the week. I know the results will be worth it, but given we live out of the range for most deliveries (and without a sink or dishwasher), it’s been a unique week of dining. Thankfully, Neha and Pind Bathinda sent through an absolute feast on Tuesday, which kept us full for much of the week. #gifted
On Wednesday, I made a much-belated trip to the capital to finally check out Craft by Side Hustle. If you’re in Abu Dhabi, you need to go and check out Chef Troy’s food, and it is my fondest hope that Craft will open other locations in the UAE. (A quick reminder that I am an investor of SideHustle, but opinions remain my own). #invited
Oh, I also got a book ready to publish. Most of you aren’t my target demographic, but More Confessions of a Teenage Bank Geek is available for pre-sale. Maybe there’s a young reader in your life?
Links, please.
Lindsay and I visit the Pullman downtown for an epic ladies night in my latest episode for Dubai byFood. YouTube
I’m hosting the Chef Talks at the Top Table at Gulfood this year, and I couldn’t be more excited to be interviewing some of the best chefs in the world. I hope to see you there! Gulfood
NBD, Sarah’s on the biggest ship in the world. YouTube
Interested in becoming a mystery diner? Matt’s taking applications. Instagram
How group chats rule the world. NYT
A 43-year wait list for beef croquettes (!). The Takeout
Timely for me: what do you always pack on a trip? (A: this bag). Cup of Jo
Tangetically related, what Taylor Swift packs. Lainey Gossip
The struggle to eat vegetables on vacation is real. Thrillist
How late is too late to cancel plans? (A: With me, it’s always okay, but a venue might feel differently). VinePair
Very into this shirt. Polychrome Goods
And I think I need a new Dopp kit for all my travels. Dagne Dover
Does my kitchen need these pinch bowls? The Kitchn
Or these chairs? Anthropologie
And why do I want these towels? Target
Whether “good” or “bad,” plant-based diets are linked to weight loss. Food Navigator
This is what motivates change. CNBC
Relevent: how to be a better friend when you are so, so tired. SELF
Loving this Lunar New Year range. Williams Sonoma
Some good restaurant etiquette to keep in mind. Food & Wine
Articles we didn’t need: what the ultra-rich wear to the grocery store. NYT
Burger King knows when you are hungover. Gizmodo
For the title: elite beagles. Ambrose Research
Would you watch a Chuck E Cheese masterchef series? Eater
Embrace the cringe. Well & Good
Do I need to try this air-fried Burrata? Tasting Table
How to cook with MSG. Food & Wine
How to gain an extra hour a day. Be More With Less
Drinking the world’s fastest cup of coffee. Sprudge
Where did Dry January originate? Time
Women in their 40’s are pushing up adventure travel. Washington Post
Pets really can be like a human family. The Atlantic
How to get the most out of a restaurant week. The Takeout
Best dishes in January? I wasn’t out and about as much as other months (on purpose). However, there was still plenty of excellent food! In no particular order, the freshly baked pretzel with chicken liver pate from Craft by Side Hustle (I’m obsessed), the tempura tuna belly and sea urchin (a delicious snack from our lunch at Belcanto), and, because I can’t pick just one thing — the Royal seafood platter from Mare by Jose Avillez. As always, I would love to know what your favorites are.
This weekend, I’m flying from Barcelona to Mexico City, so I'll spend most of my weekend on a plane (thank goodness for a reasonable upgrade on EK, keep those fingers crossed for the same situation on the return flight). Much like my trip to Portugal — this is a press trip, where I am a (delighted) invited guest.
Next week? It's a hectic mix of Mexico City, Merida, Barranquilla, and Bogota. Follow me on Instagram as I try to keep up with all of the amazing meals and experiences.
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C.
The video with Lindsay was a great watch!