Weekly A to Z, January 6th. ??

I’m not sure about you, but I was more than ready to get back to work this week. After so much unscheduled time in December, getting back to some projects has felt wonderful. Also, the joy of knowing what day of the week it is has been a genuine pleasure.

On Thursday, I did step out to Xu with the BonBons, and I heard wonderful things. For those familiar with the Rikas portfolio, it’s like if Mimi Kakushi and Gohan had a baby. There was plenty on the menu to enjoy. Check out our visit here. #invited

I’m also very excited about two projects I met about this week, and hoping both move forward. Vague on purpose, but hopefully both will be moving ahead in Q1.

A few deliveries? Silver Fern sent through some incredible beef to start our year and get our freezer full again. The Crossing (which I still need to visit in person!!) was kind enough to send over a selection, as they are now on Deliveroo, delivered in reusable natural fiber tote bags (aligned with Dubai’s single-use plastic bag ban). #gifted

Links, please.

• Loved this report: Imminent Future of Food & Drink 2024. (Thanks, Kiera!) Bompas & Parr
• And this post: how to be more gentle in January. Joy the Baker
• How GBBO sounds to Americans. McSweeneys
• Get ready to undecorate your house after the holidays. The Nester
• How to feel good tired. SELF
• What’s your best cooking cheat code? Yahoo
• Food trends…predicted by cookie cutters. NYT
• Where my love of trains and champagne meet. (Thanks, Dad!) Robb Report
• Also, other food trends to look out for. Food Network
• At the juncture of bath products and gummy bears. Dieline
• A place to stay for World’s 50 Best this year? ?? AFAR
• I’m totes wearing this for next NYE. House and Parties
• Sent by a few of you, what if Chef’s Table covered home cooks? Instagram
• Travel mistakes to avoid. NYT
• Hot dog-flavored potato chips? Eater
• Should more restaurants consider a fully domestic wine list? VinePair
• How many decisions do we make in one day? (A: Yikes). PBS
• Are you doing damp January? Eater
• Snacking as an art, not an act. Bakery and Snacks

This weekend? Flying to Lisbon (keep those fingers crossed for an upgrade).

Next week? Enjoying a lot of what Chef Jose Avillez has to offer, including a visit to Casa Nossa (!!!). Please follow along for a lot of amazing food and incredible hospitality.

If you enjoy this newsletter and want to support me,?consider working with me, sharing this newsletter,?purchasing my books?(or these novels), or?buying me coffee. Archives of the Weekly A to Z?can be found here.

C.