Last week was a whirlwind of reconnecting with work friends from out of state and indulging in some of the best culinary experiences my city has to offer. These gatherings reinforced my belief in the power of strong work relationships, especially when facing stressful times. Sharing meals and laughter certainly lays a foundation for mutual support and understanding.
A Taste of New Orleans at The Bayou
One of our dinner gatherings was at The Bayou, a spot renowned for its New Orleans-style cuisine and ambiance. I started the evening with a Funky Jungle Bird, a cocktail that struck a delightful balance between fruity and bitter notes. For my main course, I chose the crawfish etouffee, a classic dish served over rice that transported me straight to the heart of Louisiana. My colleagues opted for the gumbolaya and cajun burrito, and the unanimous consensus was one of culinary satisfaction – a true homage to New Orleans cuisine. Although tempted to linger over another cocktail, I had plans to join Erik at an investor event for a local brewery we’ve long admired – 2 Row Brewing.
Celebrating Expansion at 2 Row Brewing
The evening continued at 2 Row Brewing, a local brewery known for its exceptional IPAs and sours. On offer was a flight including their inevitable Amber, Dos Filas Mexican lager, black currant sour, and the hipacrit IPA. Given Utah’s regulations on draft beers, it was a pleasant surprise to sample such diverse flavors. The standout for me was the black currant sour, with its perfect blend of tartness and sweetness. Erik's recommendation of the beef taco from the on-site taco truck proved irresistible, even after my substantial dinner. This small indulgence was worth it, and our excitement for the brewery’s full opening was palpable. We foresee many more visits to 2 Row Brewing in the future.
A Refreshing Breakfast at Oasis Café
The following morning, I met another colleague for breakfast at Oasis Café. Conveniently located near my children’s daycare and my colleague’s meeting place, it was an ideal spot for a morning catch-up. We both opted for the oasis scramble, a delightful combination of tomatoes, mushrooms, and cream cheese, accompanied by a flaky croissant. The scramble itself was delicious, and the raspberry jam provided a sweet counterpoint to the savory dish. Over coffee and good conversation, we discussed work and life, making the most of our time together. The experience at Oasis Café was so enjoyable that I’m already planning a return visit to explore more of their menu.
An Evening of Shared Delights at Nomad East
Despite the challenge of balancing multiple evening engagements with family time, I decided to join my friends, including a dear one who was part of my wedding, for dinner at Nomad East. Embracing a communal dining experience, we shared everything – from brussels sprouts and smoked salmon salad starters to a trio of pizzas: Pretty in Pink, Squash Pie, and the special Inigo Montoya pizza. Each dish was a hit, but the Pretty in Pink pizza was the standout favorite. The evening was filled with engaging conversations about work, family, and life in general.
As much as I enjoyed the company and the food, a promise to my daughter Madi awaited fulfillment. Keeping my word, I was the first to leave, ensuring I made it back in time to read her bedtime stories. The joy of keeping that promise and the memories of a week filled with good food and great company made for an unforgettable series of events. These experiences reminded me once again of the importance of nurturing relationships, both at work and at home, and the unique joy that comes from sharing a meal with friends and loved ones.
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