José vs Trump Continues, Best and Worst Brunches, More Intel

Fighting words

The CEO of Altamarea Group (which runs Osteria Morini here) absolutely blasted Pete Wells in an open letter. Eater NY reports the letter slammed both the New York Times dining section and Wells' own reviews, calling him "anxious to be relevant." Wells recently penned a 1-star review of the group's Vaucluse restaurant. [ENY]

José vs Trump continues

José Andrés recently told San Antonio's La Prensa that he countersued Donald Trump to show support for American immigrants. "It was a way of saying 'I am with those immigrants," he told the paper, saying "there is a need to respond to any threat or any person who wishes to destabilize society." Meanwhile in his political campaign, Donald Trump just called for the banning of all Muslims from entering the U.S. [LP]

Best — and worst

The Bitches Who Brunch have been selecting their best and worst brunches of the year. Among the best: Hank's on the Hill, Rasika. One to avoid, they say: Ping Pong Dim Sum. [BHB]

Simply the best

Meanwhile, end of year roundups continue with a "best dishes" look back from Zagat as well. Some of the site's top 10 eats this year: roasted duck at The Source, boudin blanc at DBGB. [Zagat]