Hello from the last day of a much-needed two-week vacation. I’ve been Slack and (work) email free for 15 days. Highly recommend.
The last big update to the Bangers & Jams City Guides was in May, so we’re due for an overhaul. A reminder on how these work:
For years, before my friends would go on trips, I’d send them a Google Doc link. Here’s where to eat, here’s what to avoid, here’s how to spend a perfect afternoon, that kind of thing. I’ve moved those Google Docs here for Bangers & Jams subscribers. Each city guide leans food centric, but expands into shopping and culture and things to do.
The top fives bangers and jams for each city are listed first, in order, for everyone. Paid subscribers can click through to get the full list of recommendations.
I’m coming off an extended stretch at home in Los Angeles, a few recent trips to New York and a week hiding out in Maine. Those guides have the newest recs and they’re linked below.
One last thing, for now. We’re getting into my favorite time of year, when there’s at least one good/interesting movie released every week through Christmas. Thank god. A spectacular dinner is my most enjoyable experience in the world. Having a compelling film to argue about is the best way to enhance a meal.
I’m already appreciating this movie year more than 2024. The trio of Marty Supreme, Sentimental Value and One Battle After Another keeps rotating order at the top of my favorites list. The New York Film Festival premiere of Marty Supreme is the most fun I’ve ever had at the movies. Sentimental Value is the only thing to make me cry this year. I’ll do a deeper dive in a few weeks after catching a few more big contenders. But get to the movies! Don’t watch trailers or read reviews before you go. Make a late dinner reservation and get there in an Uber Black. Order dessert and drinks. Tell your friends why they’re wrong.