Yes, I hit 90+ million views on Google Maps this week, my most successful platform. While not as flashy as Instagram, I firmly believe images and reviews on Maps can do a lot for a business, and it’s evergreen (as opposed to the scroll-and-forget lifestyle). Whether showcasing interiors or highlighting signature dishes, I’ll keep telling everyone I know about Google Maps. Furthermore, given the rapid decline of Twitter in just the past few days, it’s a glaring reminder of how platforms can change, with creators losing connections and content overnight.
Some quiet before the storm of a busy few weeks ahead (no complaints). I did finally make my way over to Ossiano* for the new Wanderlust season. As always, Chef Gregoire and the entire team are on point, and the small tweaks to the interior bring the restaurant even further. Want to have a peek at this season? You know you do. #invited
Finally, seeing a few Sublimination invites go out this week, my DMs are wide open for an anonymous account of the experience. Can a dinner really be worth AED5,000 per person? Inquiring minds would like to know.
Links, please.
Everyone’s talking about this champagne index (congrats, Jen!) G&M
Have you heard about Spades? It’s a dine-in QR payment solution used by over 300 regional restaurants. Customers do not need to download an app, but can simply scan a custom-designed QR code. They can browse the menu, view their bill in real-time, split it, tip the waitstaff, and safely pay with their smartphones. Want to know more? Click here. #sponsored Spades
Catch up with Helen and me from last week (listen from 35:00). Spotify
I ordered this for Poppy, and I have no regrets. Amazon
Finally, WhatsApp. Mashable
Cannot wait to see The Menu (BonBon movie night?) Eater
A Nobu dish you can only enjoy on a private jet. Tasting Table
Small talk/networking is one of my key skills. How are you? Everygirl
Additional pointers. Cup of Jo
Another Stanley Tucci update. Saveur
For Christmas Day? The Kitchn
Recurring dreams, anyone? Atlantic
What are your core values? Cup of Jo
Would you drink a green bean casserole? Dieline
Looking at this for my nieces. Commis Kids
Can restaurants close on the weekends? Rafael explores. Fine Dining Lovers
This weekend? Hiking with Poppy and friends, a visit to Dasha’s, and we’re putting up all our holiday kit! Given we only got a tree last year, I’m actually excited to set everything up and blast our traditional Michael Buble album.
Next week? Attending the Tresind Studio* x St. Hubuterus*** collab and packing for Lapland, among with filming a new project with Lindsay from The Tasting Class! And this time next week, we’ll be on our way to Helsinki.
Finally, with World Cup madness descending on the region, I’ll be happy to stay close to home. Wishing restauranteurs and hospitality friends lots of patience in the coming weeks.
If you enjoy this newsletter and want to support me, consider sharing this newsletter on social media, ordering from these restaurants, purchasing my books (or these novels — all free to read on Kindle Unlimited), or buying me coffee. Archives of the Weekly A to Z can be found here.
C.