Thanks to all of you for making my 42nd year such an incredible one — I am wildly optimistic about 43.
On Tuesday, I (very belatedly) went to one of the BOCA pop-up dinners, this one featuring friend Chef Gabriela. You can catch our visit here. I learned a lot about specific Mesoamerican flavors, and am looking forward to any next dish that she serves up. I also managed to stop by Zuma, as well as the Avli/Galaxy Bar anniversary party (truly making the most of my visit to DIFC). #invited
On Thursday, I ordered another trip to the airport with Blacklane, and I have to say that I’m convinced that this will be my go-to chauffeur service going forward. #gifted
So, where am I in the world? Antalya, Türkiye! Given the recent tragedy in the country, I struggled with whether or not I should accept this trip. The property I’m staying at is the height of luxury, and while stunning, it feels a bit strange to highlight all the incredible amenities when so many lives were lost in the recent earthquakes. In the end, after speaking to a number of Turkish friends, I felt that traveling was the right thing to do. I might delay posting content and the full experience — it still doesn’t feel like the right time — but I am so looking forward to sharing my visit with all of you. I’m staying here, and when I walked into my 3 bedroom villa, I was truly speechless. I feel incredibly fortunate to be here. #invited
Links, please.
An article I was very proud to write, featuring a topic I am passionate about. Fast Company
Topical — especially if you just turned 43 yesterday — but a great comic on birthdays. Cup of Jo
ICYMI: the Carnistore event last week! I really enjoyed supporting the team and am looking forward to future sessions. Instagram
What are the rules for talking on a flight? Washington Post
I can’t think of anything I want less. VinePair
What is a reverse grocery list? The Kitchn
Can you define ‘glou glou?’ Punch
I quit my job as a lawyer to cook in Spain. BonAppetit
I…really want this grocery cart. The Kitchn
Chat GPT just passed three levels of the master sommelier exam. VinePair
How to spend less on dinner dates. The Takeout
Skillshare is a platform that offers thousands of classes in a variety of subjects. From creative arts to business and technology, there’s something for everyone. Sign up here. #sponsored
Should we all be Jonathan Majors? GQ
Peeps flavors ranked worst to best. Tasting Table
Next purchase for the kitchen. VinePair
Hugh Jackman and his 8600 calorie diet (!). Socialite Life
Why high-end restaurants are suddenly launching bottled cocktails. Robb Report
Tell me about a five-course pasta-tasting menu. Tasting Table
We love tiny ice. Punch
This is certainly one way to have Girl Scout cookies. The Takeout
American restaurant bingo. BonAppetit
Talk to me about Hidden Valley Ranch ice cream. Tasting Table
How to have a sick day when you can’t actually call off work. SELF
Would you use edible utensils? Tasting Table
This weekend? Hoping for continued sun in Antalya.
Next week? Could I finally be returning to regularly scheduled programming? The Bookers are out to Mi Amie, and then it’s finally time to catch up on my lengthy ‘to dine at’ list, starting with Dinner.
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C.
The Turkiye property looks ace! I know you struggled with the decision. I personally think you made the right one. They will need the PR to attract tourists back. Feyza agrees. If you need any Turkish translation or help just let us know! Afiyet Olsun!