Happy Friday, everyone!

We’re closing out work-at-home week 10 (!) with abundant sunshine, warm temps, and the joy of a long weekend. Sure, we’re not skipping town for the beach or have any elaborate plans whatsoever, but knowing it’s a long weekend puts me at ease. We stick to a fairly strict routine during the week so that weekends actually feel different and special, even if we’re in the same space we were all week long.

The Buffet features plenty of reading for your time outside, recipes to try, my dining guides in case you’re seeking takeout, plus a little shopping. Because I can’t resist a good sale these days. ;)

Have a great long weekend and please stay safe, and stay home. Going out? Wear. A. Mask. Thank you!

READ

This week’s basically newsletter is a joy as usual. It includes a new trick for peeling garlic and a whole section about jelly beans (my history with these beans goes way back). Check it out!

Never heard of kabocha squash flour (same for you?), but apparently it works well in gluten free baking. I guess it’s never a bad time to learn something new. However, I’ll probably stick to my two favorites because why change something that works so well? But I will consider this kabocha to be fair.

In case you’re wondering, yes, there is a person out there drinking 25 cups of coffee each day. Wowza. I got jittery just typing that sentence.

Not food-related whatsoever, but this is a great roundup of options for stylishly organizing a small outdoor space. Hi, yes, we have an apartment with a very small balcony. This is helpful.

Are you living in or around Boston? Check out this collection of restaurants offering delightful takeout options to help celebrate the long weekend. MDW weekend means the “official” start of summer. Time flies…

COOK

Cod with Soy-Caramelized Onions and Potatoes - I love all of these words. I think it’s time to add fish back into our weekly meals! This sounds like a delicious, one-skillet dinner.

Layered Yogurt Flatbreads - I was just talking about these this week! I’d love to try this recipe with GF flour because flatbreads are such a great “vehicle” for so many other dishes (primarily dips) we make fairly often.

Creamy Artichoke and Bacon Bucatini - And now I know what I’ll use that cream for that’s waiting patiently in the fridge. Just need to round up some bacon and we’re good to go (and use GF pasta). A decadent dinner for Saturday night? Sign me up.

Cheddar Jalapeno Chicken Burgers - I’m not sure what our “plans” will be for Memorial Day, but it will definitely include something delicious to eat. Whether we thaw the hot dogs in the freezer, or make these awesome burgers, only time will tell. ;)

DINE

The sun is shining, the warmth is here, and all we want to do is sit outside having a cocktail and a great meal that we don’t have to make. However, that scene isn’t possible right now so I’m still encouraging the car picnic! We have yet to try a park picnic in case you’re curious.

Support your favorite local restaurants by ordering takeout, delivery, or even a gift card to use at a later date. Restaurants need our support right now (among many other businesses) and this is my current favorite way to help.

Our latest car picnic was from Woodman’s of Essex and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Eating piping-hot french fries and calamari in the car (windows down and far from other cars) is pretty much a dream outing; the new normal is fine by me for right now. Woodman’s offers all of their fried seafood to be served gluten free. :)

I recommend checking out a restaurant’s social media account(s) first to make sure they are offering takeout/delivery.

Check out my Boston dining guide, right here.

And my guide to fries, right here.

Considering Maine? Here are my top spots.

SHOP

The summer sale at Dermstore has begun! It’s a great time to order refills on your favorite products for up to 20% off (brand restrictions apply). I re-ordered a bottle of micellar water (excellent makeup remover) and tried a new brand of shampoo. :)

While traditional beach trips might not be happening, taking walks on the sand will still be an option. I’d like this sweater for a beach walk on a cool evening.

Summer is arriving and that means sunscreen is a requirement (although I wear it all year long). My favorite sunscreen from Supergoop! is always a part of my morning routine. It has the faintest hint of a summer “scent” and goes on smoothly over makeup (or just moisturizer).

Enjoy! And stay safe.

Mollie