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Taste the Lifestyle! O C TO B E R 2 02 6

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Where Everybody Knows Your Name

October 2026 PUBLISHER

Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Debie Dove | debie.dove@citylifestyle.com

Growing up, I loved watching Cheers. There was something comforting about that neighborhood bar where everyone knew your name, your favorite drink, and probably more about your life than you intended to share. It wasn’t really about the bar. It was about belonging. I think we all need our own version of Cheers. Maybe yours is the neighborhood restaurant where the server already knows your order. It might be the coffee shop where they start making your drink when you walk through the door, the wine bar where you always seem to run into a friend, or the little family-owned restaurant where you have celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, and Tuesday nights when nobody felt like cooking. These places become more than businesses. They become part of our stories. That is one of the things I love most about food. A meal can turn strangers into friends, friends into family, and an ordinary evening into a memory. Some of the best conversations happen around a table, usually long after the plates have been cleared. And sometimes, our favorite gathering place is home. There is something special about opening a bottle of wine while dinner simmers on the stove, inviting friends over without worrying if the house is perfect, and gathering everyone around the kitchen island to laugh, cook, and catch up. The recipe doesn’t have to be complicated, and the wine doesn’t have to be expensive. What matters is who is sitting beside you. Our October Food & Drink Issue celebrates the restaurants, flavors, and gathering places that make our community feel like home. I hope it inspires you to try somewhere new, return to an old favorite, or create your own memorable meal at home. More importantly, I hope you find your place. The one where they know your name, notice when you haven’t been around, and make you feel like you belong. So, where is your local Cheers? Cheers to good food, fine wine, great friends, and always having a seat at the table. Warmly,

E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Valerie Merrick | valerie.merrick@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Jennifer Dartez | jennifer.dartez@citylifestyle.com STAF F W R I T E R

Valerie Merrick STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Valerie Merrick, Adeline Merrick CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kim Casale, Laurie “Lolo” Roberts, Pauli Reep, Alyssa Lavy, Nicolette Martin, Emily McKeever C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Steven Offield

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

ANGI BURNS, PUBLISHER @ALLENCITYLIFESTYLE Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Allen City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Allen area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Allen City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

inside the issue OC TOB E R 2 02 6 | FOOD & D R I N K

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

10 14

Featured

Departments

Not Your Typical Home Economic’s Class

Allen High School’s Blu Culinary Arts Program Introduces Students to a Professional Hospitality Career

14 28

One Location, Limitless Date Ideas Paint, play, dine, indulge, or unwind—Watters Creek offers endless possibilities for a date worth remembering.

The Chef Behind Elke’s

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Kids Corner EDUCATION

Hot Spot FOOD + BEVERAGE

Local’s Choice ENTERTAINMENT

Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE

Giving Back LOCAL SERVICES

Local Limelight EDUCATION

Chef ’s Selection FOOD + BEVERAGE

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE

Must See FOOD + BEVERAGE

Events

How To LIFE + CULTURE

Elke’s Market Cafe’s legacy continues under Chef Gregory Casale

On the Cover Enjoy fresh sushi and classy vibes at The Blue Fish, located in Watters Creek. Photography: Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia | See more images at www.MerrickMultimedia.com.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT? With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

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Inspiration for your best local life.

Exclusive giveaways.

Hidden gem alert!

Good news in your neighborhood.

Local content by local creators.

Inside scoop on all things local.

Locally-inspired food & drink recipes.

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

OCTOBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1 - 10: City Lifestyle recently brought local business professionals together for its “B2B Networking Happy Hour at Chicken N Pickle.” Guests enjoyed an evening of making new connections, strengthening existing relationships and sharing ideas in a relaxed, energetic atmosphere. With great food, drinks and plenty of fun, the event continued City Lifestyle’s mission of creating opportunities for local professionals to connect, collaborate and build meaningful relationships within the community.

C I T Y SC E N E

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ A L L E N C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

NOT YOUR Typical HOME Economic’s CLASS Allen High School’s Blu Culinary Arts Program Introduces Students to a Professional Hospitality Career ARTICLE BY VALERIE MERRICK PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF STEVEN OFFIELD

Making popcorn and sewing cushions might be what you remember from your days of Home Ec. But in Allen ISD, these simple skills have been replaced with quality education to help students grow. In the 2010s, Allen High School’s Career Technical Education (CTE) department finished renovations on Blu—the student-run restaurant. This program expanded the previous home economics program into a true culinary arts career program where students learn more than simply prepping a meal. According to Culinary Team Discipline Lead Chef James Coulter, “Students learn a combination of technique, culture, science, and personal expression. This program is about learning the proper techniques to make food taste good, but also about doing it in a safe manner. Many students do not understand the proper temperatures that make food safe for not only cooking but serving, holding, and storage.” Through the Hospitality and Tourism Career Cluster, students learn about safety, sanitation, knife skills, and basic culinary instruction around food fundamentals like stocks and sauces, vegetables, and more. Students also learn front of the house operations, which encompass running the dining room and other aspects of restaurant operation. Chef Coulter says, “My goal as a culinary educator is not only to teach students how to cook but also to inspire them to be curious, creative, and confident.”

K I D S COR N E R | EDUCATION

What’s even more special is that this is one classroom that’s open to the public. According to Chef Coulter, “This academic year, we will be opening our coffee bar for morning coffee and breakfast. The next phase will be to open the Blu kitchen for regular lunch service. Also in the works is to open the Blu patio on football game days for our burger, wings, and BBQ menu.” All of these different offerings will give students a chance to learn new skills and for community members to enjoy their hard work. If you find yourself craving something tasty and want to contribute to Allen ISD’s strong educational programming, find your way to the Blu restaurant or the Blu patio. OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

ARTICLE BY ANGI BURNS

Champions of Breakfast! BEST LOCAL SPOTS TO START YOUR MORNING OFF RIGHT

Be s t C o f fe e : Frogg C offee Bar & C rê pe ri e This charming Watters Creek café pairs espresso drinks and specialty lattes with crêpes, waffles and pastries. 832 Watters Creek Blvd.

Be st Mimosa: TwoRows Classic Grill Weekend brunch pairs its famous Honey Pepper Bacon with a classic mimosa of fresh orange juice and sparkling wine. 711 Central Expy. S.

B es t French Toast: Sofra B reakfast & Lunch Choose from Very Berry, Apple Pecan, Banana Nutella or Cinnamon Roll French Toast. 503 W. McDermott Dr. #130

Be s t Avo c ado Toa s t: A rmo r C o f fe e C o.

Be st Home st yle Brea k fa s t : Alle n Cafe

Sourdough, smashed avocado, cream cheese, everything seasoning, chili flakes, and lemon zest make this anything but basic. 190 E. Stacy Rd.

A longtime local favorite for eggs, pancakes, biscuits, chicken-fried steak, and other home-cooked classics. 302 E. Main St.

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OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

The Blue Fish

ONE LOCATION, LIMITLESS DATE IDEAS ARTICLE BY VALERIE MERRICK PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK MULTIMEDIA

P A I N T, P L AY, D I N E , I N D U L G E , O R U N W I N D —WAT T E R S C R E E K O F F E R S E N D L E S S P O S S I B I L I T I E S F O R A D AT E WORTH REMEMBERING. A soft smile, the clinking of drinks, and maybe a cute selfie or two—a date night with that special someone is a time to connect and make memories. Watters Creek Village offers a variety of date night options without leaving the city limits . . . or even needing to move your car. Enjoying food and drinks at one of the twenty establishments at the walkable, open-air resortstyle shopping and entertainment destination is an obvious first choice for a date, but don’t overlook activities like darts and painting. For a perfect autumn date night, live music on the Village Green or a walk along the creek provides a relaxed, romantic way to spend an evening together. Need more inspiration? Read on.

LOCA L’S CH OICE | ENTERTAIN ME N T

CONTINUED > OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

Tutto Gustoso

SOMETHING BLUE, SOMETHING NEW

Walk into The Blue Fish and you’re immediately met with a row of chefs expertly preparing fresh sushi and sashimi. Sit at the counter and watch them, or find a spot at the cocktail bar and witness the bartenders working their magic. While the Tuna Tower is a go-to dish, people who prefer meat will appreciate the teriyaki Wagyu steak. Vegetable appetizers, like the roasted shishito peppers or the crispy Brussels sprouts with pork belly, round out the menu. After dinner, walk across the creek to Menchie’s and enjoy a tasty (and guilt-free) dessert of frozen yogurt. The flavors change regularly,

LOCA L’S CH OICE | ENTERTAIN ME N T

so try the latest combination. Choose something fruity and healthy or load your cup with chocolate toppings to satisfy your sweet tooth.

EUROPEAN ADVENTURE

Tutto Gustoso is an elevated Italian restaurant featuring handcrafted pastas, Roman-style pinsa flatbreads, risottos, and more. And while the food is the main event, the extensive wine list and eclectic art give you and your partner something fun to talk about while enjoying a leisurely meal. One of the best parts of Tutto Gustoso is its inclusive menu, featuring gluten-free and vegetarian

ER S

CR EE

KO FFE

RS COUP

LES A CHANCE TO CONNECT CLOSE TO HOME. Color Me Mine

dishes, so that everyone can enjoy a dish that fits their preference. As you walk down the street, make your way towards JOY Macarons. Founded in 2012, this local family-owned dessert shop features gluten-free macarons. Keep the evening’s Euro-centric theme going with the Italian cream, or opt for classic lemon.

PIZZA + PAINTING

Nothing beats Friday night conversation over a classic woodfired pizza from Grimaldi's. This Brooklyn-style pizzeria features hand-tossed dough, so request a table near the oven for a show.

Whether trying the unique Ivy Pizza, featuring garlic, pesto, mushrooms, white onions, and jalapeños, or a classic cheese pizza, a slice and a bottle of wine makes for a perfect start to your date. When you’re finished with your meal, head over to Color Me Mine. This paint-your-own-pottery shop offers hundreds of designs, so there’s plenty for each partner to choose from. Don’t worry if you lack artistic skill; staff is on hand to help your creative energy flow. With over sixty colors of glaze and a multitude of techniques on display, you’ll have fun making memories—and art—that last long after the night ends. CONTINUED >

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

The Melting Pot

DRINKS AND DARTS

If you’ve been watching the latest season of Ted Lasso, you might be dreaming of an adventure across the pond. Channel your inner Ted, Rebecca, Roy, or Keeley at The Lion & Crown Pub just across the creek. This cozy dive bar features classic pub fare like cottage pie and Irish stew, alongside cold beer and an extensive whiskey list. You can catch live music most Friday and Saturday nights and play bar games like darts and pool every day of the week. Challenge your sweetheart to a friendly game or grab a Guinness and catch up. The Lion & Crown Pub is a perfect spot for playful partners or low-key first dates.

CONCERTS BY THE CREEK

THE MELTING POT The Melting Pot is the latest addition to Watters Creek, offering a unique date night for couples and a place for celebrations. Tucked away in the back of the restaurant, Lovers Lane is a set of tables providing an intimate experience for those seeking a quiet and relaxed moment away from families or large groups. In this area, each table is positioned in its own alcove, allowing guests to focus solely on each other and their meal. The menu is composed of a variety of fondue courses—warm dips made of cheese, broth, and chocolate—which allow you to slow down and savor each bite. This date night encourages connection and relaxation. Enjoy a glass of wine expertly paired with each course for an extra touch of elegance.

“LIVE MUSIC ON THE VILLAGE GREEN OR A WALK ALONG THE CREEK PROVIDES A RELAXED, ROMANTIC WAY TO SPEND A N E V ENING T OGE T HER.” 18

LOCA L’S CH OICE | ENTERTAIN ME N T

One of the best parts of Watters Creek is the live music offered on Saturday nights at the Village Green. The expansive lawn is centrally located, allowing you to grab food and drinks from any restaurant to enjoy a picnic with your partner. If you’d rather sit on a patio, arrive early to The Blue Fish, Grimaldi’s, or Tutto Gustoso to secure your table. These shows provide a great chance to snuggle and enjoy the crisp weather while listening to live music. With complimentary valet service on Friday and Saturday evenings, you don’t even have to worry about finding a place to park. Whether you’re looking for an elegant night of sushi or fondue or a laid-back experience at a local pub, Watters Creek offers couples a chance to connect close to home. Watters Creek also hosts arts events and festivals throughout the year, which means couples, families, and friends have many opportunities to make memories and enjoy perfect weather days. Visit www.WattersCreek.com to see the full list of restaurants and upcoming events.

Grimaldi's Pizzeria

JOY Macarons

Enjoy Menchie's Frozen Yogurt while walking beside the creek

The Lion & Crown Pub OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

FEAST YOUR WAY TO WINTER Fall’s best cookbooks for perfect cold season prep

Crisper air and shorter days call for cozy nights, whipping up a homemade meal in soft slippers and your favorite robe. Staying home on a Friday night in the fall doesn’t mean you’re giving up — quite the opposite! Think of it as carb loading before the championship game or a prep session before that major test. You’re practicing your winter hibernation skills, stretching those lounging muscles, and getting ready to win winter. And consider this roundup of cookbooks as your personal trainer. If you can make a hearty, succulent roast with confidence and ease as the leaves fall outside, imagine what you can do when it’s 20 degrees and snowing. Now, go get ’em!

Pizza Night:

Deliciously Doable Recipes for Pizza and Salad When you hear “Pizza Night”, a picture appears of the entire family gathered ’round with good food and lots of laughs (with popcorn and a movie to wrap up the occasion, naturally). This collection of yum contains 52 seasonal pizza varieties, each with unique salad pairings. It’s like pizza night on overdrive. Now, when you plan the family’s favorite end-of-the-week event, you’ll have this in your arsenal.

Mastering Bread:

You may see Health Nut and say to yourself, ‘Booooring!’ but healthy food doesn’t have to be tasteless food. Flip through the vibrant pages of this trusty sidekick, and you’ll find good-for-you dishes with flavorful combinations the whole family will love. With practical instructions and helpful tips, it’s almost as if the author peeked into your pantry and built her recipes around ingredients you already have.

The Art and Practice of Handmade Sourdough, Yeast Bread, and Pastry

You’ll find more than 70 recipes in this gorgeous compilation. Author/lifestyle blogger Lauren Thomas wants her readers to slow down and create a whole mood around their food, one that is beautiful, inviting, and… delicious. Her recipes are achievable for the novice and experienced chef and come with tips on tablescaping, cocktail mixing, and more. So, double knot that apron because you’re going to learn some stuff and eat very, very well.

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

I NSP IR E D BY | L I FE + C ULT U RE

The Modern Hippie Table: Recipes and Menus for Eating Simply and Living Beautifully

We know you want to turn and run in the opposite direction after reading this title, but don’t be afraid! Take a glance at the reviews, and you’ll see words like easy, lovely, informative, inspiring, and our favorite, “great for beginner bread makers!” No equipment is required, just basic ingredients and a can-do attitude. It’s also a nice little piece of décor for your kitchen countertop.

Health Nut:

A Feel-Good Cookbook

No n p ro f i t o f t h e Mo n t h ONE WOMAN DEDICATED TO ALLEVIATING FOOD INSECURITY AMONG SENIORS

ARTICLE BY LAURIE "LOLO" ROBERTS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LAURIE "LOLO" ROBERTS

G IV IN G BAC K | LO CAL SE RVICE S

It all started with a heartfelt conversation at a church gathering. A concerned church member, with genuine worry in their voice, shared, "Did you know that there are hungry senior citizens living in the apartment complex behind our church?" The Grateful Gratitude Hearts Foundation, a onewoman nonprofit devoted to providing fresh fruit to homeless individuals, is acutely aware of the struggles many community members endure in accessing fresh and nutritious food. With compassion as her guiding principle, she has made it her mission to reach out to those seniors, understanding their vulnerabilities and the importance of nourishment in their lives. LoLo devoted her time to planning a large Thanksgiving meal, complete with all the trimmings, for 65 senior citizens at the nearby community center. Arriving early, she took a moment to pray, hoping for the residents to join her. When they began to arrive, LoLo eagerly struck up conversations, asking them how they enjoyed the meal. It was heartbreaking to hear many of them ask for extra plates of food—just so they would have something to eat the next day. Her heart ached at the realization that these beautiful seniors were struggling to make ends meet. As they talked, many shared their stories of receiving small Social Security checks and limited SNAP (food stamp) benefits, often just around $100. It was a humbling moment that made it clear the food insecurities they were facing. In that moment, she felt a profound urge to help them, inspired by a deep sense of compassion for their situation. Grateful Gratitude Hearts Foundation is a small, grassroots nonprofit that operates on a very limited

budget. Recognizing the struggles many seniors face, LoLo felt it was crucial to offer fresh produce at no charge, providing nutritious options to those who often grapple with chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. LoLo, who embraces a wholefood, plant-based diet, deeply understands the healing power of eating foods in their most natural form. With a compassionate heart, she is driven to help heal bodies and inspire hope within the community. LoLo has invested countless hours researching seasonal produce, discovering ways to purchase fruits and vegetables more affordably during their peak seasons. This knowledge allows her to bring a wider variety of nutritious options to the tables of those in need, ensuring that everyone has access to healthy food. The Grateful Gratitude Farmer's Market was created to serve two senior communities each month, bringing much-needed support to their residents. These markets offer a variety of nutritious produce, eggs, meat, and bread at no cost, allowing seniors to supplement their monthly groceries. It's a wonderful opportunity for them to know that food will always be available, offering them choices that might otherwise be out of reach. Recently, LoLo experienced the loss of her mother due to a chronic illness. To honor her mother's memory, the Grateful Gratitude Farmer's Market has been renamed Barbara's Market. This change reflects the love and warmth that LoLo wishes to carry forward, ensuring that her mother's spirit lives on in the kindness shared within the community. For more information, visit www.GratefulGratitude.org.

“The Grateful Gratitude Hearts Foundation, a onewoman nonprofit devoted to providing fresh fruit to homeless individuals, is acutely aware of the struggles many community members endure in accessing fresh and nutritious food. ”

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

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OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

ARTICLE BY VALERIE MERRICK | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KIRAN KARTHIK

Student of the Month Kiran Karthik Helps Others with Tech Through Elevate Tomorrow

LOCA L LIM LIGH T | EDUCAT ION

Kids today are accomplishing more than ever before. And Kiran Karthik, a local Allen resident and senior at Greenhill School in Addison, is a perfect example. For the past five years, Kiran has been a volunteer tutor for refugee students. In his words, “I’ve seen how important STEM education and access can be to those that are less fortunate. Many of the students that I’ve taught had outdated devices, or no devices, which made learning very difficult for them. So, I started an initiative where I take used devices, repair them if needed, and give them to these students so they have access to online learning.” For Kiran, this isn’t just a casual afterschool hobby. It's a full-fledged nonprofit organization he co-founded called Elevate Tomorrow. And his work helps both people and the planet. Kiran’s mom says, “Every laptop or tablet that gets refurbished instead of tossed is one less piece of toxic e-waste in our landfills, and one more child

with a real shot at learning. In a small but meaningful way, he's teaching that protecting our neighbors and protecting our environment can be the very same act.” In addition to his nonprofit and volunteer work, Kiran also designs STEM courses and kits, holds multiple Microsoft certifications focused on AI and technological security, and even makes time to read Stephen King novels. As he looks forward to his future after high school, Kiran says, “I want to be able to use my knowledge of AI and my passion for engineering to create robotics that can be used in applications such as space travel and assistive technologies that improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.” Do you know of a student, educator, or good human who should be featured? Send an email to Angi.Burns@citylifestyle.com to nominate them.

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The Chef Behind Elke’s

Elke’s Market Cafe’s legacy continues under Chef Gregory Casale, whose remarkable career has taken him from New York to kitchens across America.

ARTICLE BY KIM CASALE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY VALERIE MERRICK: MERRICK MULTIMEDIA

C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Even if you’ve never been to Elke’s Market Cafe in Allen, there’s still a good possibility you’ve experienced the culinary expertise of owner and chef, Gregory Casale. Elke’s has been legendary in Allen for over 22 years, but Chef Gregory’s 30-plus years of culinary experience has crossed the globe and spanned many aspects of the culinary landscape. From an early age, Gregory was focused on food and all things cooking. Growing up in a second-generation Italian-American household just outside of New York City, he was constantly surrounded by amazing flavors and smells. His strongest memories of childhood involved cooking with his mom and grandma. Being so close to NYC, there was also a world of international restaurants and flavors to explore. Trying new cuisines on trips into the city was a family adventure. While cooking and food was a passion, the value of owning a business was also stressed from a very young age. After graduating from Syracuse University with a degree in Communications, he could not find the right fit in the business world. Culinary kept calling—specifically the Culinary Institute of America, considered one of the world’s top culinary programs. Gregory excelled in his studies, and this became a springboard into high-end fine dining. Straight out of school, Gregory landed a position at the world-famous River Café in New York City. Almost a year later, a desire for warmer weather and aspirations to be his own boss led him to Scottsdale, Arizona, a place he would call home for 22 years. In 1993, the Phoenix/Scottsdale restaurant scene was breaking away from the stereotypical cowboy steakhouse and making a name on the national food scene, mostly in high-end resort dining rooms. Gregory worked at some of the Valley’s top resorts such as The Scottsdale Princess and The Royal Palms, serving many celebrities, including President G. W. Bush. One rare night out, he enjoyed dinner in a quaint and slightly funky neighborhood bistro owned by a husband and wife team, with only a few tables, local art on the walls, and authentic, globally inspired food, made from scratch and served in an urban environment. He literally could not sleep that night, realizing that this was the type of business he needed to own.

Gregory’s Grill, an eight table restaurant, started in 1996 in a slightly sketchy neighborhood. In its first three months, local food critic Howard Seftel named it Phoenix’s “best new restaurant in years” in the café’s first review, calling Gregory “Chef Royalty.” It eventually doubled in size, growing to eighty seats, and moved to nicer digs. Renamed Gregory’s World Bistro, the restaurant went on to garner top accolades from local, national, and even international publications, including Wine Spectator and The New York Times. Counting many local and national celebrities as regulars, Chef Gregory was a semi-finalist for three years running for the James Beard Award. With the help of his wife, Kim, Gregory’s World Bistro also received much attention for wine, including several Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence. After eight-plus years of sixteen-hour days, six days a week, and with a new baby on the way, Gregory wanted more work-life balance. The opportunity came from a chance meeting with one of his wife’s former high school classmates. What started for Gregory as a consulting gig on specialty sandwiches for Paradise Bakery turned into a full-time gig. Brought on board to develop the up-and-coming concept to 30 stores in the Southwest, Gregory grew Paradise Bakery to over 90 stores, including six locations in Texas. CONTINUED >

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C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

“Today, Elke’s Market Cafe is more than the next chapter in Gregory’s culinary career. It is the culmination of everything that came before it.”

As a corporate chef, Gregory created recipes that would translate to palates all over the U.S., learned to source ingredients to ensure consistency in flavor and price, followed food trends, and even invented new ones. His experience with Paradise Bakery ended when Paradise was purchased by Panera Bread. Another regional Southwest chain—Peter Piper Pizza—saw this as an opportunity to elevate their game and snapped up Gregory. The pizza/arcade concept known for their quality pizza was looking to improve on their already solid product. In 2014, when Peter Piper Pizza was acquired by Dallas-based Chuck E. Cheese, Gregory took a step and moved his family across country. His time as Senior Director of Culinary Innovation for both Peter Piper and Chuck E. Cheese saw the development and implementation of fresh dough made from scratch at every location across the U.S., Unicorn churros, and stuffed crust pizza, among many other accomplishments. But life has a way of bringing things full circle. As 2020 rolled around and the rest of the world navigated what a post-pandemic restaurant looked like, the culmination of all these skills brought Gregory back to business ownership as the second owner of Elke’s, only three miles from the Paradise Bakery on Stacy Road that he opened. Today, Elke’s Market Cafe is more than the next chapter in Gregory’s culinary career. It is the culmination of everything that came before it. From the family kitchens of his childhood to the soups, salads, and sandwiches of Paradise Bakery, and from the innovative elegant dinners and special wine events of his fine dining career to the product management and culinary innovation of his corporate training, each step has shaped the business owner he is today. At Elke’s, Gregory brings that depth of experience back to a neighborhood setting, honoring a beloved Allen tradition while adding his own touch. It is a fitting full-circle moment: a chef with a global résumé, now focused on serving the community just a few miles from where his Texas story first began. Visit Elke’s Market Cafe at 105 N. Greenville Ave. #11 in Allen.

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

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OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

A FALL-INSPIRED MAPLE PUMPKIN GRANOLA WITH PUMPKIN YOGURT

maple pumpkin parfait ARTICLE BY ALYSSA LAVY, MS, RD, CDN, CPT

maple pumpkin granola

(Yields approximately 4.5 cups or 18 – ¼ C servings)

ingredients: • • • •

• • • • • • • •

2 ½ C rolled oats 1 C pumpkin seeds, hulled ½ C unsalted walnuts, chopped 2 Tbsp canned pumpkin puree (Note: the only ingredient should be pumpkin – this is different than pumpkin pie filling) 1 Tbsp water 2 Tbsp avocado oil or vegetable oil ½ C pure maple syrup, divided into 2- ¼ C servings 2 tsp pure vanilla extract 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice ¼ tsp salt Nonstick cooking oil spray

pumpkin yogurt

(Yields approximately 1 C yogurt)

ingredients: • • • • •

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

¾ C plain Greek yogurt of choice ¼ C canned pumpkin puree ¼ tsp cinnamon ¼ tsp pure vanilla extract 1 ½ tsp honey

granola directions:

1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. 2. Combine canned pumpkin, water, oil, vanilla extract and ¼ C maple syrup) and mix until well combined. 3. Add rolled oats and salt to wet ingredients and mix until oats are evenly coated. 4. Line a large baking sheet (9 x 13 inches works well) with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking oil spray. Transfer oats to baking sheet and spread in a thin, even layer. 5. Bake in oven for 1 hour, mixing at 30 minutes and 45 minutes. 6. Remove oats from oven briefly. Add pumpkin seeds, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice and remaining ¼ C pure maple syrup. Mix with a spatula and return to oven to bake for another 30 minutes, mixing halfway through. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before using a spatula to transfer to container. Do not wait too long to transfer granola as it can stick to the parchment paper as it cools.

yogurt

directions: 1. Combine all yogurt ingredients in a medium sized bowl. Top with a handful of the maple pumpkin granola, serve immediately and enjoy! Note: This granola can be stored in an airtight container and stored in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week. While this granola is made with gluten free ingredients, I recommend using certified gluten free ingredients if needed.

Yogurt can be made with a suitable dairy-free alternative if you need this recipe to be dairyfree and the honey can be swapped for pure maple syrup to make the dairy-free yogurt recipe suitable for a vegan diet. The granola and the yogurt can each be enjoyed on their own, but they complement each other so nicely! This Maple Pumpkin Granola Parfait is a perfect way to celebrate autumn’s most famous flavors in a nutritious way! Pumpkin, maple syrup and warm spices, such as cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice, give cozy vibes that are traditionally found in baked goods this time of year. However, while pumpkin bread, muffins, cookies and other fall flavored baked goods are certainly delicious and should be enjoyed, this Maple Pumpkin Granola Parfait provides the satisfaction of those fall flavors in a lighter way, while providing ample protein and fiber. It is the perfect, slightly sweet and balanced way to start the day – or to enjoy anytime! Alyssa Lavy, MS, RD, CDN, CPT is a registered dietitian, personal trainer and mom of 2. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from The George Washington University and her Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology from Teachers College Columbia University, where she also completed her dietetic internship. She has been an ACSM certified personal trainer for over a decade. Alyssa is the owner of Alyssa Lavy Nutrition & Wellness, a wellness brand offering nutrition communications, program development and consulting services for individuals and corporations. Website: alyssalavy.com Instagram: @alyssalavyrd

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK SHOP LOCAL

YO U R D I G I TA L D E S T I N AT I O N FOR LOCAL LIVING

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

Do The Monster Mash With These Fall-Focused

spook - tails Cocktails Perfect For Halloween Festivities

ARTICLE BY SAM LAGE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLETTE MARTIN

M UST SE E | FO O D + BEVERAGE

TOASTED MALLOW

• • • • •

1 1/2 ounces vodka 1 1/2 ounces chocolate liqueur 1/2 ounce Frangelico liqueur graham crackers marshmallows

Combine all ingredients except for the graham crackers and marshmallows in a shaker tin. Add ice and shake vigorously until sufficiently chilled and blended. Crush graham crackers in a plastic bag to make a fine powder. Coat half of a martini glass with your crushed graham crackers and strain your cocktail into the coated martini glass. Layer the top of the drink with marshmallows and toast with a crème brûlée torch. Enjoy!

Combine all ingredients except for the nutmeg in a shaker tin. Add ice and shake vigorously until sufficiently chilled and blended. Strain through a mesh fine strainer into a martini glass or other decorative glassware without ice. Shave fresh nutmeg over the top as a garnish and enjoy!

PUMPKIN BRAIN PURÉE

• 2 ounces cachaça (Brazilian sugar cane rum, silver rum can be substituted) • 1 ounce Galliano liqueur • 1/2 ounce lemon juice • 1/2 ounce brown sugar & cinnamon syrup • 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree • fresh nutmeg

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

OCTOBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

O C TOBE R 2 N D

Candlelight, Costumes, and Haunting Melodies Allen Heritage Village: 450 St Mary Dr., Allen, TX 75002 | 6:00 PM The local heritage village sets the stage for a not-so-frightful fall evening featuring crafts, a trick-or-treat trail, and live music by the Allen Philharmonic performing haunting seasonal favorites by candlelight. This free event is the perfect low-key kickoff to Halloween season for the whole family. Visit www.Events.AllenTX.Gov/alltx for full details. O C TOBE R 6T H

Neighbors, Officers, and Stronger Communities 6:00 PM National Night Out brings Allen residents face-to-face with their local police officers for an evening built entirely around connection, trust, and community safety. Every registered neighborhood gathering receives a visit from Allen Police, turning a single evening into a citywide celebration of collaboration. Register your neighborhood at www.AllenPolice.org/Outreach/National_Night_Out.php. O C TOBE R 9 T H

Shake a Can and Make Some Art The Edge At Allen Station Park: 201 St Mary Dr., Allen, TX 75002 | 6:00 PM This hands-on spray paint experience invites participants to learn tips from an instructor before unleashing their creativity on a collective canvas. All supplies are included in registration, making this an accessible and genuinely thrilling introduction to street art. Secure a spot and find registration details at the www.LifeInAllen.org website. O C TOBE R 9 T H

Only the Bravest Survive Trivia Night The Brass Tap: 2540 N Watters Rd. #180, Allen, TX 75013 | 7:00 PM This horror-themed trivia night puts final girls, scream queens, and genre legends front and center for a chilling evening of competition, specialty cocktails, and cold beer at The Brass Tap. From classic slashers to modern horror icons, only the most knowledgeable survivors will claim the prizes. Gather the crew and find details at www.BrassTapBeerBar.com/Allen/Events. O C TOBE R 1 0 T H

Fifteen Years of Shining Brighter Together Hilton Garden Inn Allen: 705 Central Expy. S, Allen, TX 75013 | 6:30 PM JOYE's 13th Annual Gala celebrates 15 transformative years of equipping young people with education, enrichment, and leadership opportunities that open doors and change lives. An online auction, direct giving opportunities, and a powerful evening of reflection and community make this a night worth being part of. Visit www.GiftOfJOYE.org/Gala to purchase tickets, register to bid, or make a direct donation. O C TOBE R 1 1 T H

Explore, Move, and Be Like Blippi Credit Union of Texas Event Center: 200 E Stacy Rd. #1350, Allen, TX 75002 | 2:00 PM Blippi and Meekah bring their signature curiosity and high-energy adventure to the stage in an all-new interactive show packed with fan-favorite songs, surprises, and the kind of playful exploration that inspires young minds to discover the world around them. Break out the orange glasses and get ready to sing, dance, and explore together. Grab your tickets at www.CUTXEventCenter.com.

EVE N TS

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OC TOBE R 1 7 T H

Cozy, Creepy Screening Stephen G. Terrell Recreation Center Great Lawn: 1680 W Exchange Pkwy., Allen, TX 75013 Grab a lawn chair and something cozy for an outdoor screening of the beloved Halloween classic Hocus Pocus as dusk rolls in over the Great Lawn. Concessions are available for purchase, and no registration is required, so the whole family can simply show up and enjoy. See more details at www.Events.AllenTX.Gov/alltx. OC TOBE R 2 4 T H

Big Hair, Dark Secrets, and Rock and Roll Allen Senior Recreation Center: 451 St Mary Dr., Allen, TX 75002 | 6:00 PM This 1980s-themed murder mystery dinner drops guests into a battle of the bands where three rising acts compete for fame until a shocking twist stops everything cold. Come dressed in full 80s rock glory, solve the mystery, and enjoy an evening of music, drama, and intrigue. Registration details and tickets are available at www.Events.AllenTX.gov. OC TOBE R 2 4 T H & 2 5TH

Spooky Skies and Campfire Thrills Molsen Farm Trailhead: 1550 S Greenville Ave., Allen, TX 75002 This local trailhead transforms into a Halloween haven for one spooktacular overnight adventure packed with treats, thrills, and memories made under the stars. Families and friends are invited to bring their best Halloween spirit for a frightfully fun evening that runs well into the night. Registration is required, so visit www.Events.AllenTX.Gov/alltx to reserve a spot.

CAFE - MARKET - CATERING - WINE Enjoy the Holidays this year! Let Elke’s do the cooking for you!

CAFE - MARKET - CATERING - WINE

Eat Fresh. Eat Healthy. Eat Local.

www.elkesmarketcafe.com 214-495-0200 105 N Greenville Ave, Ste. 11, Allen, TX 105 NORTH GREENVILLE AVENUE SUITE 11 ALLEN TX 75002 214.495.0200 WWW.ELKESMARKETCAFE.COM

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

ARTICLE BY NICOLETTE MARTIN

PU M PK I N PE R F E C T ION Put the carving tools down and check out how you can add some pizzazz to your pumpkins with just a paint brush.

For this design, you’ll need several pumpkins or gourds in various shapes and sizes, some white and metallic acrylic paint, hot glue and some fake creepy crawlers. Paint your “background” pumpkins in metallic colors. For your centerpiece, use white paint to cover the body, metallic paint for the stem and hot glue your creepy crawlers all around.

H OW TO | L I FE + C ULTUR E

the CREEPY crawler