Realizing the next few weeks (months?) are going to be super hectic, I made the decision to stay in most nights. JOMO, I love you.
On Thursday, I accepted a lunch invitation to MENA’s World’s 50 Best #1 Orfali Brothers. After traveling with Chef Mohamad to France, it only seemed fitting. For those who have visited, there are plenty of favorites and signature dishes. While the savory dishes all hit, I walked away with a new favorite dessert — the miso banana cake, a thing of beauty. If you’re in the neighborhood, get a piece to go. #invited
On Friday, I was on Dubai Eye to chat about my French cheese trip (see link below) and then over to MENA’s #2 and The World’s 50 Best Restaurant #11 Tresind Studio** to try the new season. I’ll be posting more about the experience soon! #invited
Finally, it was a busy week of deliveries. I was delighted to receive lunch from Curry Castle (the dosa onion rings!), a box of frozen treats from the House of Pops x Mama Rita collab, and a welcome gift to kick off the launch of Gimi, the latest in the ever-expanding portfolio from Atelier House. Finally, the Moreish by K x Home of Switz team was kind enough to send a wonderful box of samosas to celebrate World Samosa Day! #gifted
Links, please.
Our first episode of Dubai Byfood, featuring my interview with Alvin Leung, is out! I would love for you to subscribe, as we have some great chefs this season.
If you’re a restaurant and want to learn about listing on the website (free), click here.
My latest for Fast Company discusses the importance of preserving culinary heritage in the Middle East.
Check Tiffany and I on the radio, giving Helen a blind taste test with cheese. Facebook
The prettiest piece of sushi I’ve ever seen. Instagram
Do I need a corn cob candle? Etsy
My home state Georgia might not be the peach state for much longer. The Guardian
Best gifts for chefs (as suggested by chefs). Food52
Impress your friends with fancy napkin folding. Food Republic
Would you try a chicken salt cocktail? Drinks Digest
Can Silicon Valley save these chicks? Ambrook
Talk to me about pickle butter. Tasting Table
Kellogg’s v. Mexico. Stat
I want these limited-edition Pringles. Guilty Eats
Do unphotographed recipes ever get cooked? Bee Wilson
How to (definitively) split a bill (no matter how complex). Bon Appetit
How to get the most happiness from your social life. The Atlantic
Ready to play some online culinary-related games? #sponsored
Where did all the chefs go? Grub Street
Make any drink dirty. 👀 Punch
Glow-in-the-dark wine labels. Dieline
Canadian McDs > American McDs? Slate
Drunk cacio e pepe. Taste
Are we seeing a turn to fewer celebrity chef-fronted restaurants? Robb Report
Yes, you can use Tic Tac containers to store spices. Tasting Table
How to throw a winning tailgate party. Garden & Gun
What’s your travel habit that travel snobs would rip you apart for? A: Sometimes, I just need to go to McDonald’s in a foreign country. I will not apologize for this behavior. Reddit
Create amazing content quickly with Canva – no design skills needed. #sponsored
This weekend? Honestly, as much proactivity as possible.
Next week? Filming with Reif, a moonrise preview, an invite-only Tequila event, and some training for the approaching Deliveroo awards with my other judges. A few meetings and some deadlines will make for another busy week!
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C.