Last weekend involved a highlight of revisiting Hoseki (if you’re interested in reading a full review, please feel free to subscribe). While expensive — AED700 per person — the experience is truly unparalleled in the UAE. Here is a quick Reel for the highlights.
Monday was busy with an invite to a Sunday Riley event at Crank. As the brand also sent me some of their range in honor of international dog day, let’s just say I love a company that supports all parts of a consumer. Not to be missed, Losta Lazy Cakes, in partnership with Koita milk, sent over a box of treats (and I’ll never say no to Lotus Fudge). #gifted
On Tuesday, I had a quick meet-up with Jen at Oh Sugar Cafe for me to try and understand the finer points of digital marketing. Ahem. If you have any contacts who are looking for PT work, I’d appreciate any leads (especially those with Facebook ad experience — this is for author stuff, not food stuff). Then it was home to get ready for the Caterer Awards! You can read the full list of winners here. This was my first time attending, and I loved being in a room to celebrate all the hard work of the Dubai F&B industry. A special thanks to the fabulous Peggy, who let me tag along as her +1.
Wednesday’s recovery was made much easier by the delivery of (much needed) shakshouka from LDC, whose branding game continues to be amazing. Comforting food also arrived in the form of Chef Izu’s latest, Izu Burger. You can find them on Deliveroo. As much as I enjoyed the burgers, I was super impressed with the packaging. #gifted
On Thursday, I accepted Firas’s kind invitation to return to The Artisan for an overdue lunch with Jean, who has recently launched Touch, an inclusive talent agency that gives back. As always, the visit was full of wonderful food, with the Hokkaido scallop carpaccio and Spaghetti ‘Alla Chitara’ two of my favorites. Even more generous? Firas sending me home with a Burrata pizza for Hubs… Check out our visit here. #invited
Links, please.
What are your favorite fall foods? The Takeout
Tresind Studio x Najat Kaanache collab, book now. Instagram
Wonderful to see two Dubai-based chefs on this list. Best Chef Awards
Throw a big ass party. Vice
There’s a secret font on Instagram? Mashable
Yes, but would Emirates do this? OMAAT
Do you have a lucky meal? Cup of Jo
Society of secret bakers. Block Club Chicago
D-list cocktails. Punch Drink
A wildly unnecessary device. The Takeout
Places to visit post-pandemic. Forbes
When you get extra food… The Takeout
How to mix your Spotify playlist with friends. Lifehacker
A gummy for everything. Eater
A secret menu at In and Out for doggos. Food and Wine
Matzo Ball Ramen? Food52
Policy changes for the James Beard awards. Eater
Where are the former food workers? SF Chronicle
This weekend the Bookers are over to Hutong for the Imperial Brunch, and even though the book we read was terrible, I have no doubt it will be a memorable experience.
Next week is Hubs’ birthday!!! In years past, we’ve gone on some fairly epic trips, but this year we’re sticking closer to home. I’ve got a nice beach day at DRIFT lined up, as well as tasting some of the new dishes at BOCA. I’m also going to be popping into some of the AHIC events.
If you enjoy this newsletter and want to support me, consider telling a friend, ordering from these restaurants, purchasing my books (or these novels), or buying me coffee.
C.