The Weekend Buzz

Where to eat, drink, and be merry this weekend.

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to the Weekend Buzz, your weekly guide to everything you need to know for making the most of your summer weekend. The last few days have felt eery, with blue skies disappearing behind a veil of yellow smog, and the sun turning into an apocalyptic blood orange bulb in the grainy haze. Masks are on, outdoor activities are out, and the birthday party I had planned in my backyard was cancelled too. (I’m 54 today people; I think Studio 54 is going to be the theme of my year, but without the cocaine? Is that possible? Unclear.)

Special thanks to my dear friends Kathy Squires and Melissa McCart for taking me to an amazing dinner last night where chef Alex Raij, who I have known for probably 20 years now, since her days with Colin (RIP) and Renee Alevras at The Tasting Room. Alex cooked a progressive dinner for us starting at St. Julivert and continuing at La Vara. If you have not been to one of her restaurants please go as soon as possible. Her food is magnificent and also like nothing you’re seeing on menus in the city before. She’s an unsung talent.

Alex and I at St. Julivert last night where Kathy and Melissa took me for my birthday.

I walked home last night in a cool glow of smoky night sky, masked up and full of gratitude for my life, my beautiful friends, and the brilliant cadre of chefs across this city who bring all of us so much joy by turning on a stove.

As for this weekend, I had planned a trip to my happy place, aka The Rockaway Hotel, but I am not sure that will happen. I hope so, but in any case, I’m particularly excited about this weekend because of the arrival of brunch at one of my favorite restaurants, a late night DJ party out in Queens, an all-day festival devoted to drinking rosé, and a wine tasting devoted to the islands.

Check out the weekend buzz below and here’s the all of you, my readers, my community, know that today….and every day…I am grateful to all of you!