The holiday season always feels incomplete without our annual post-Christmas lunch at Dean & DeLuca. It has become a cherished tradition for my friends and me, a moment to slow down amidst the holiday rush and truly enjoy each other's company. This year’s gathering was no different, filled with good food, great conversation, and heartfelt moments.
We kicked off the lunch with our usual catch-up session, sharing stories of how we celebrated Christmas with our families. Laughter filled the air as we recounted memorable moments and amusing mishaps that only the holiday season can bring.
Of course, one of the highlights of our gathering was the gift exchange. Each year, we try to outdo ourselves with thoughtful, personalized presents that reflect our unique bond. Unwrapping these little treasures, surrounded by the warmth of friendship, was a reminder of how much we value each other. This year, my friend and I were thrilled to receive a Labubu—our "anik-anik." It’s one of those things we’ve always liked but never thought of buying for ourselves, making it an extra special surprise.
Another cornerstone of this tradition is reflecting on the past year—a recap of our 2024 goals. From celebrating milestones to discussing lessons learned from challenges, it was inspiring to hear how each of us grew and persevered. These conversations not only brought us closer but also motivated us to set meaningful goals for the year ahead.
And then, there was the food—oh, the food! Dean & DeLuca never disappoints. For the table, we ordered Aglio E Olio E Gamberini, the Angus beef tapa grain bowl, the new buttermilk waffle with fresh fruits, the Pineapple Glazed Pork Belly—a must-try, the Gochujang Pork Belly, and the Chorizo Kimchi Rice. The star of the meal for me, though, was their Yuzu Glazed Salmon—it was simply divine! We didn’t order dessert, but we had some drinks. I particularly enjoyed their Sangria. We also tried their sourdough dip with balsamic sauce, which we made ourselves—it was a fun and tasty experience! Their New York Burger also stood out with its juicy, flavorful patty and perfectly toasted bun.
As we wrapped up our lunch, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this annual tradition. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of friendship, reflection, and the joy of being together. Here’s to carrying this tradition forward and creating even more beautiful memories in the years to come.
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Yummy foods 😍. Thanks for sharing
Huh? That's a cute Labubu doll indeed. How are you all doing at home since you got that? Are you or anyone in the house getting any nightmares, experiencing any paranormal activities or have started quarreling often with each other?