Links we sent our friends #54
Food souvenirs, tips for hosting, and even more recs from a true foodie
Hi from California! Sam and I (Aliza) are out here a liiiiitle longer than expected after a noon flight turned into a 10:00 PM red eye (mechanical issues!) We came out for a long weekend to celebrate a dear friend’s wedding — and fortunately, by the looks of the joyful photos my parents have been sending with Jude, I don’t think we’re being missed much anyway. (It’s fine, I’m fine.)
We’re thrilled to introduce you to a true foodie today. Let’s get to the links!
writes on hand, a newsletter featuring interviews, recipes, and stories that revolve around food and drink. She began on hand in 2021 after several rotating stints in the hospitality world — including baking at a local restaurant, selling wine, teaching cooking classes at Sur la Table, and stocking shelves at Trader Joe’s.
Brianna’s Links:
I’ve lived in New York City long enough that I remember what used to occupy a commercial space more than one business ago, and I often get nostalgic for a city I never got to experience. I loved this piece in The New York Times about a family-owned old-school Italian joint in Cobble Hill that stays open by playing itself on TV. (Gift link.)
Just bought this gorgeous olive oil cruet from a potter on Etsy. I want to get a smaller size for my balsamic vinegar, but the style I want is perpetually sold out.
I’m pretty sure food tastes better in bowl-plates, and I eat most meals out of the ones in my collection, even when it’s not the best vessel. In this article, Eater explores their rise. (Aja: I exclusively use bowl-plates.)
This absolute banger left me not sure whether to laugh, cry, or dance. Women’s healthcare can really leave something to be desired.
Aja’s Links:
Recently learned that some of my most-traveled friends never take a trip without one of these.
I guess we’re having a Kule summer, because I just bought this in two colors and I think Aliza’s gonna buy this…
A fascinating look inside the lives and minds of the NBA’s eight female referees. “I’m looking around like, Oh my god, they’re coming after me after this game. My life’s over. Nothing prepares you for that.”
Bookmarking where to buy the best food souvenirs in Paris (and how to get them home).
Back on my mosquito beat: This bug spray has been my go-to for a few summers now. Not only does it smell great (vanilla and orange — like a grownup Creamsicle) and come in a cute package, but it’s DEET-free.
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Aliza’s Links:
A catchy headline — and a surprisingly complex and interesting conundrum for island goers!
Inspired by this powerful viral essay by , trying to act a bit more “European” this summer (even if my family’s not getting on any international flights). And seeking friends who’ll let me show up at their house unannounced.
I think I have enough baseball caps, but this one is so tempting. (Speaking of gathering with friends this summer… go buy Katherine Lewin’s new book!)
A tablecloth to go with your summer dinner parties? (h/t )
The shoes I’ve worn to four weddings so far this year (and counting) are on mega sale. (The Nashville-based brand is women-owned and stocks the best quality leather staples.)
Newsletter we sent our friends:
, writer and author of , started a thread last week for subscribers to share words that helped them through grief — passing along to our readers in case you wanted to read and/or participate.
Haley’s newsletter is always one of the highlights of my week. From essays on her birth story to rethinking “self-care”, she has the unique ability to dig deep into life’s joys and challenges while balancing humor, levity, and deep introspection.
Question we asked our friends:
I finally picked up a copy of Banyan Moon by at the airport on my way out to California last week, and it’s been helping me emerge from my winter reading rut (which feels amazing!)
What’s the best thing you’ve read so far this summer?
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Bowl plates for life! I equate the preference to my desire for all my food to be kinda saucy, thus needing some high edges on my plate!
Ah yes, team bowl plate here! 🙋♀️ They are the best. I read Happy Hour by Marlowe Granados a few weeks ago and it was such a surprise delight for me.