Weekly A to Z, July 5th.
The one with a bucket list hotel stay (and 20+ years married). 💍👰🏻🤵🏻🥂
A very happy anniversary to Mr. Wright — 22 years have gone by in a flash!
Here to tell you that I can still be pleasantly surprised by restaurants in Dubai! I accepted a generous invitation from Chef Hez Arslan and the Birch team at DIFC. While I’d heard nothing but good things, it was lovely to visit and experience all of the dishes in person. Lots of creative plating, a very open kitchen, and a number of dishes I would go back for. Best of all? With two tasting menus, both priced at AED490, Birch is a great way to try something new without breaking the bank. I hope you’ll plan to visit this summer — it’s always good to support new voices in town. #invited
Otherwise, I kept a low profile this week (no complaints). However, I have to say that, as always, Dubai without people is my favorite Dubai. Getting around town? Easy! Parking? No worries! Going from A to B? Not a problem.
One of my other (non-ironic) things I love about July? Hallmark’s Christmas in July! I think we all need a little formulaic and lighthearted rom-coms in today’s world.
Definitely too many links, please.
Thank you,
, for including Tresind Studio in this recent article for Etihad. ITPDubai’s booming restaurant scene is feeling the heat of high costs and high failure rates. AP
Having been on a version of this trip, I can assure you that you want to watch 48 hours in Lyon with Spinneys and Emirates Holidays. YouTube
The ultimate drinks guide to Wimbledon 2025. The Drinks Business
Can you really trick yourself into being responsible? Glamour
Why are hotel rooms like this??? Instagram
How many drinks can you consume before getting a hangover? The Drinks Business
Very into this lifelike bread wrapping paper. Design Boom
Why do berries get moldy so quickly? Mental Floss
Jo Malone makes a premium vodka? The Drinks Business
What’s your current project? GFY
Is the Ritz-Carlton yacht collection struggling? OMAAT
Just for the 4th: Gatorade shrimp. Instagram
What is the difference between fatigue and burnout? Time
American vs. UK Fanta. The Takeout
Want better bakes? Here’s what your ingredients actually do. KCRW
V. into this Olipop hotel room. Eater
Most consumers plan to reduce their restaurant spending. NRN
You had me at: Island Creek Tuna Belly in Galician Butter. Bernal Cutlery
Okay, but is anyone going to San Francisco this summer?
They also have a whole LEFTY section!
How food changes in conflict zones. NPR
Would love to visit some of these Veuve Clicquot sun clubs. Rume Magazine
Oreo brings back its blueberry pie flavor. Eat This, Not That
Can your restaurant get Heinz verified? Heinz Away From Home
Would you try sliced mayonnaise? Twitter
NYC restaurants catering to the Ozempic crowd with single meatballs, 1-ounce hamburgers, and caviar nibbles. NY Post
Emo realtor > all other realtors. Instagram
A list of great cookbooks from food brands. WSJ
Does cheese cause nightmares? Time
What is the best appliance to use in a heat wave? CNET
Would you try dill pickle shredded cheese? Business Wire
Why restaurant operators should consider becoming content creators. NRN
Just how many hot dogs are eaten during the 4th of July? The Takeout
What is the ultimate mai tai recipe? Punch
I’m ready to try the new Wheely chauffeur service. Connecting Travel
I want ALL these mini toys from the upcoming Macca’s Happy Meals. Eat This, Not That
Where are the world’s most beautiful restaurants? Euro News
Mumm and Perrier-Jouët: making regenerative farming the new normal. The Drinks Business
Why is good matcha so hard to find? Hubspot
What Clarkson’s Farm can teach the drinks industry. The Drinks Business
Would you do an extreme day trip? CNN
This weekend? No lie — I’ve had a stay at THE Burj Al Arab on my bucket list since moving to Dubai in 2007. With a stay that fell through, the team was kind enough to find a room for Eric and me over the weekend. To say I’m excited is an understatement. If you’re interested in a stay (and let’s face it, I know you are), check out the details of their Exceptional Summer Staycation. Keep an eye on all my socials for the experience, and I’ll have more details to share in next week’s newsletter. #invited
Next week? Besides below, just trying to keep ahead of ongoing projects. I may try to squeeze a final restaurant visit in before leaving for the States next weekend.
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C. 💚
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Enjoy the Burj—and happy anniversary both!