A Milestone Celebration: Reflecting on My Thirties, Michelin Stars & Culinary Delights

Happy Friday, everyone! What an absolutely whirlwind week it has been. From returning home late Sunday evening after an inspiring trip to California, to sharing my latest recipe video for Mediterranean Tuna Tartines, the days have been packed with exciting moments. But the biggest milestone of all? This Tuesday, I officially celebrated my thirtieth birthday – the big 3-0! It truly feels a bit surreal, a significant turning point I’m still trying to fully grasp.

While I’ve heard countless wonderful things about entering this next decade of life, I must confess that reaching this particular birthday feels uniquely significant. My twenties, a decade of immense growth, learning, and discovery, are officially behind me. It’s a strange sensation, one that brings both reflection and anticipation for what lies ahead. As Connor had to work late on my actual birthday, we opted for a quiet, intimate celebration. We picked up some delicious take-out from one of our cherished neighborhood spots, settling in for a cozy evening at home. To mark the occasion, we cracked open a small bottle of champagne, raising a toast to new beginnings and the adventures that await in my thirties. It was a perfectly understated and lovely way to acknowledge the day.

An Unforgettable Culinary Journey: Anticipating Grace Restaurant

The real highlight of my birthday celebrations, however, has been meticulously planned for tomorrow! Months ago, we secured a coveted reservation at Grace in Chicago’s vibrant West Loop. My excitement is barely contained; I’ve been eagerly looking forward to this experience for what feels like an eternity. Grace holds a special place in the culinary landscape as one of only two restaurants in Chicago to have been awarded three Michelin Stars, making it a true beacon of fine dining excellence. It’s been at the very top of my culinary bucket list ever since we made Chicago our home, a dream destination for any food enthusiast.

To further immerse myself in the world of Grace, I recently watched the compelling documentaryFor Grace on Netflix. This film offers an intimate glimpse into the passion, dedication, and meticulous artistry required to operate a restaurant of such esteemed caliber. It deepened my appreciation for the culinary journey we are about to embark on and has only heightened my anticipation for the exquisite meal and unparalleled service that a three-Michelin-star establishment promises. I can’t wait to share all my thoughts and perhaps even a few tempting snaps on Instagram stories next week!

Reflections from California: A Source of Inspiration

My recent trip to California was a wonderful prelude to this celebratory week, offering a refreshing change of scenery and abundant inspiration. The golden state, known for its diverse landscapes and innovative culinary scene, never fails to captivate. While there, I indulged in fresh, seasonal produce, discovered charming local eateries, and soaked in the vibrant atmosphere that California effortlessly exudes. It’s always a treat to explore new places and bring back fresh ideas, whether for new recipes or simply a renewed sense of energy. The beauty of the Californian landscape, with its sun-drenched fields and blooming flora, always leaves a lasting impression, much like the beautiful flowers captured in the image above – a reminder of the simple, natural beauty that surrounds us.

Weekly Loves: Culinary Discoveries and Lifestyle Favorites

Beyond the birthday excitement and travel reflections, this week has also been filled with several delightful discoveries and enduring favorites. Here’s a peek at a few things I’ve been absolutely loving:

• Kitchen Essentials: Mason Jar Lids

  During my trip, I stumbled upon a fantastic culinary store in Oakland called Preserved, a haven for all things fermentation and home food preservation. There, I discovered these incredibly practical plastic replacement lids for my glass mason jars. They are a massive upgrade from those finicky, rust-prone metal lids that always seem to seize up after a few uses. These plastic versions are durable, easy to clean, and perfect for everyday storage, meal prepping, or even just keeping leftovers fresh. I’ve even heard a rumor that these can sometimes be found at Target, so keep an eye out!

• A Comforting Zucchini Pasta Bake

  I cannot get enough of this zucchini pasta bake! It’s the epitome of comfort food – incredibly cheesy, deeply satisfying, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. It skillfully incorporates fresh seasonal zucchini into a hearty pasta dish, making it a fantastic way to enjoy garden-fresh vegetables without sacrificing flavor. It’s a recipe that delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss, becoming an instant staple in my kitchen for its comforting qualities.

• The Magic of Garlic Confit

  Earlier this week, I made a fresh batch of my beloved garlic confit, and it has been a game-changer for so many dishes. This slow-cooked garlic in olive oil yields incredibly soft, mellow, and flavorful cloves, along with a rich, infused oil. I’ve been incorporating it into everything: it’s a fantastic shortcut for elevating easy tomato sauces, adds incredible depth to homemade hummus, and is absolutely divine simply for bread dipping. If you’re looking for a simple prep-ahead ingredient to boost your home cooking, garlic confit is an absolute must-try.

• My Favorite Black Leggings

  I finally caved and ordered a new pair of these black leggings, and I have zero regrets. I purchased a different color last year, and they quickly became the most comfortable pair of leggings I own. They strike the perfect balance between comfort, support, and style, making them versatile enough for workouts, lounging at home, or even casual outings. Finding leggings that feel this good and hold up well is always a win in my book!

• Indulgent Cherry Ice Cream

  You certainly don’t have to tell me twice when it comes to homemade ice cream, especially one featuring roasted fruit. This particular cherry ice cream recipe sounds absolutely heavenly. Using fresh, seasonal cherries and roasting them before adding them to the ice cream base intensifies their natural sweetness and creates a deeper, more complex flavor profile. It’s the quintessential summer dessert, capturing the essence of the season in every creamy, fruity scoop.

• Easy & Delicious Korean Short Ribs

  These grilled sweet gingery Korean short ribs immediately brought to mind a beloved dish from one of our favorite local restaurants. The combination of sweet, savory, and a hint of ginger is just irresistible. What makes them even better is how surprisingly easy they are to prepare at home, allowing you to recreate that restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. They’re perfect for a summer barbecue or a flavorful weeknight meal.

• Beautiful Sarah Kersten Ceramics

  As a treat to myself (because, thirty!), I picked up two absolutely gorgeous speckled egg Sarah Kersten ceramic pieces from a charming, tiny curated shop in my sister’s neighborhood. The moment I saw them, I knew they had to come home with me. There’s something so special about handmade pottery; each piece tells a story and adds a unique character to any space. I am utterly in love with their aesthetic and craftsmanship – truly, no regrets on this beautiful indulgence.

• Must-Try Battered Avocado Tacos

  I am absolutely desperate to try these beer-battered avocado tacos. The idea of crispy, perfectly battered avocado nestled in a warm tortilla with vibrant toppings just sounds like pure culinary genius. It’s a fresh, exciting take on tacos that promises a delightful blend of textures and flavors. If you’re a fan of avocado and looking for a unique vegetarian option, these are definitely worth adding to your must-make list. You feel me?

• Inspiring Summer Reading List

  My summer reading habits have been somewhat non-existent lately (unless cookbooks count, which they totally should!). So, this comprehensive reading list has been an incredibly helpful source of inspiration and ideas. It’s a wonderful resource for discovering captivating stories and getting back into the rhythm of unwinding with a good book during these long summer days. Expanding my literary horizons is always a welcome endeavor.

• Captivating Cafe Au Lait Dahlias

  While visiting my sister’s local farmer’s market, I spotted these breathtaking cafe au lait dahlias. Their soft, creamy hues and intricate petals immediately captivated me, instantly making them my new all-time favorite flower. I truly cannot deal with how stunning they are! They embody such delicate elegance and bring an undeniable touch of beauty to any setting. Discovering such natural beauty is always a joy.

It’s been a week of reflection, anticipation, and delightful discoveries. I’m looking forward to sharing more about our incredible experience at Grace next week, and continuing to explore all the exciting facets of this new decade. Stay tuned for more culinary adventures and everyday inspirations!