Issuu

Meet the Meat: Alpharetta’s Steakhouses

F O O D + B E V E R AG E

OU R AN NUAL FO O D AN D BEV VIE ISSU E WH ERE TO E AT OUT TO N IGHT E V E N T P L A N N I N G + S E RV I C E S

PRAISE PU M PKINS: GIV I NG ISN'T JUST SE A SO NAL O C TO B E R 2 02 6

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Hello friends, Do you love weeding as much as I do? There's something so very satisfying about tidying up a bed of flowers or vegetables and digging out the stalky grasses, invasive broadleaves and sassy sedges. I spend time on an organic farm (between publishing issues of the magazine) where I can put my penchant for weeding to good use. Today, I worked on a rather neglected 50-foot bed of arugula for nearly two hours, coaxing the amaranth from its deep roots and plucking unwelcome grasses from between the rows of light green arugula leaves, trying like heck to find space to spread and thrive. I think I heard a collective sigh, each plant finally relaxing instead of elbowing through the weeds. In a few weeks, we'll harvest the bed and send the peppery greens to restaurants and a farmers' market. That's where food comes from. This month, we celebrate the food that someone else cooks for us. We visit restaurants, talk to chefs and celebrate wines and no-proof drinks (one industry pro calls non-alcoholic drinks, "NActails"). Cheers to all the front and back of house staff at our favorite restaurants who bring good food to our tables. And, thank you to the farmers who grow the vegetables and tend the land where our food grazes and grows. Enjoy this issue.

October 2026 PUBLISHER

Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com M AN AG I N G E D I TO R

Hayat Nawd | hayat.nawd@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Kristy Belley | kristy.belley@citylifestyle.com S E N I O R AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com AD M I N I ST R AT I VE D I R E C TO R

Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R

Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Stacy Conde, Dennis Malcolm Byron C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Andrea Byron

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz

All my best,

CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

SUE G. COLLINS, EDITOR @ A L P H A R E T TA C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

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

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

Publications’ opinions. 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 Alpharetta City Lifestyle® is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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

14 Featured

20 22

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Where To Eat Tonight

A guide to good food nearby.

Rare Scene

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Must See FOOD + BEVERAGE

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE

Local Limelight EVENT PLANNING + SERVICES

City Lifestyle's picks for quintessential steakhouse experiences.

How To LIFE + CULTURE

Giving Back FOOD + BEVERAGE

Road Trip TRAVEL

Praise Pumpkins

Locals Only FOOD + BEVERAGE

Events

A faith-filled tradition turning porches into beacons of gratitude and joy.

On the Cover Cabernet Steakhouse is one of 14 steakhouses we count among Alpharetta’s red meat kingdom. Read the story on page 20.

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UPTOWN COUNSELING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Specialty Market Opens in City Center Grove & Barrel Provisions, founded by Barcelona native Josep Juncosa has opened at the Alpharetta City Center. The specialty market is inspired by the flavors of Southern Europe. Grove & Barrel Provisions is designed to bring people together through food and shared experiences. Guests can also look forward to tastings, pairings and other unique experiences throughout the year. GroveandBarrelProvisions.com

<<>>

BEFORE

JamBEARee is October 15 Families throughout the Alpharetta and North Fulton community are invited to join Cambridge High School for the Third Annual Homecoming Parade and JamBEARee, a free community celebration taking place Thursday, October 15, from 5–8 p.m. Following the parade, guests can enjoy performances by the Cambridge band, cheer and dance teams, remarks from Coach Jones and Principal Agans and another hour of Bear Backyard festivities.

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W h e re To E a t To n i g h t A GUIDE TO GOOD FOOD NEARBY.

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

Amazing at Amasa

M UST SE E | FO O D + BEVERAGE

Graze Craze Crew

This month, we take you on a tour of local restaurants stirring up seasonal dishes, pouring wine pairings, dreaming up NAcktails (no-proof drinks) and sharing kitchen secrets. We hope next time you dine out, you’ll check out these spots, armed with menu inspiration and local knowledge. Bon Appétit!

AMASA MEXICAN KITCHEN

amasamexican.com. IG: @amasamexican 15 Academy Street Meet Juan Calle, owner Fan favorites I would start with our Baja fish taco. It is our house specialty and probably the simplest way to understand Amasa in one bite. It is rooted in the street food culture of Baja California, with fresh seafood, bright flavors and a lot of acidity. It has also already gotten a great response locally, winning Best Taste Entrée at the 2026 Taste of Alpharetta. Our sweet corn esquites have also gotten a great response. The dish won Best Taste at Grand Tasting Midtown. We grill fresh corn and then use the cob itself to continue building flavor into the crema. It is a good example of our philosophy of taking the extra step, even with something that seems simple. I would also include our California burrito. It is filled with carne asada and fries and represents the fun side of the Mexican and Southern California border culture that influences our menu. I think those three dishes work because together they show the range of Amasa. You have fresh coastal cooking, thoughtful ingredients and something a little indulgent and fun. From the bar Tequila and agave spirits are going to be a major part of what we do at the bar, and margaritas will obviously play a big role. But we do not want every drink to simply be another version of an overly sweet margarita. We are approaching the bar the same way we approach the food, using fresh citrus, herbs, chiles and seasonal fruit

to create balanced drinks that work well with the menu. We are also excited about making tequila and agave spirits more approachable for guests. Tastings, tequila dinners and classes will give people a chance to learn more about what they are drinking without making it feel overly serious. We want the bar to be fun first, but there is a lot of craftsmanship behind those spirits and we want to share some of that story. Giving back For us, supporting the community starts with being part of it. We are planning programming that can connect us with local organizations, businesses, schools and neighborhood groups.

GRAZE CRAZE OF ALPHARETTA

GrazeCraze.com/locations/alpharetta-ga 670 North Main Street Ste 107 Meet Sara McNabb, Owner/ Manager Fan favorites The favorite selection has to be our Large Charcuterie board that feeds 20. It is beautiful and colorful. Decadent and packed with so many delicious fresh vegetables and tasty meats and cheeses. It is truly a work of art. A close second is the Wine Pairing Picnic box. It is so versatile, beautiful, portable and fun. It comes in a convenient picnic box and heartily feeds four. It also comes with a wine pairing guide defining which wine to drink with each tailored bite. A picnic box makes a great dinner for four. It is the perfect way to get the kids to eat their vegetables. Notable sides One of my favorite homemade side items on the menu (that is a complete surprise to me) is the Beet Hummus. It is such a bright, smoky taste. I have never really had beets, but this is truly delicious and special. The most special cheese we offer is the Carmella Cheese. It comes in a massive, fantastic hand-painted wheel wrapped in wax. It has a nutty essence of Parmesan with the creamy goodness of Gouda. CONTINUED >

“Look for a very traditional and classic take on an Italian-style risotto with local Georgia Corn, as well as a reduced corn purée. The risotto is then topped with U10 diver scallops coming out of George Banks.” OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/A L P HA R E T TA

Space matters Graze Craze of Alpharetta opened in August. The previous business in this space was My Friends Place, which has been closed for 10 years. The entire space has been completely refreshed. The kitchen was expanded and appointed with a custom tile pattern, new appliances and tables to accommodate Charcuterie classes and event opportunities. The doors leading into the kitchen are 1920s Otis elevator doors retrofitted as swing doors. Although Graze Craze is delivery and takeout, we want the community to stay a while and enjoy what we have to offer. We have the unique opportunity of adding vendors to our selections. As a woman-owned and managed business, I have only included local women artisans in my retail space. We carry Biscotti, Gourmet Oils and Vinegars, Honeys (that are included on our premium boards), tea towels and jams. Giving back We have lived in North Fulton for 23 years. We have happily been involved in supporting various high school sports programs as well as Bert’s Big Adventure and other fundraisers. We are excited that we can make a difference through such a small donation when the community supports us with such love and kindness.

NFA BURGER (AVALON)

NFABurger.com IG: @NFABurger 3180 Avalon Blvd Meet Kramer, Owner & Founder Fan favorites Billy’s Classic, a double-stacked cheeseburger with mustard, pickles and Sassy Sauce on a Martin’s potato roll, is how it all started and remains the most popular order on the menu. The Giving Kitchen Burger kitchen code name “Waffle House” is a distant second. NFA donates $4 to the Giving Kitchen for each smashed, scattered, smothered and covered burger sold. The Southsider, named in honor of my father who was born on the Southside of Chicago, is a beef tallow deep-fried all-beef Vienna Beef Polish sausage. “Marshall’s Way” is diced raw onions with mustard. Family meal As a fast casual restaurant, we don’t do a typical family meal. While our staff eats free, I’m cognizant of the fact that our staff can tire of eating NFA every day. To spice things up, we bring in pizza from Antico, quarter birds and beans from Pollo Primo, Philly wraps from Gyro Gyro, burritos from La Fondita, bagels from Brooklyn Bagel and doughnuts from Five Daughters and Dandy Donuts. Additionally, NFA will surprise area restaurants with burgers as a thank you for what they do in the community. Giving back NFA will donate over $100,000 this year in money, meals and auction items to various organizations throughout the metro area. Our beneficiaries include Giving Kitchen ($.25 for every burger), Bagel Rescue, Wish for Wendy, Project Open Hand as well as schools that feed into our locations. As we grow, so will our philanthropic efforts.

M UST SE E | FO O D + BEVERAGE

We are excited that we can make a difference through such a small donation when the community supports us with such love and kindness. LAPEER STEAK & SEAFOOD

LapeerSteak.com/alpharetta IG: @LapeerSteak 12 N. Broad St Meet Blake Hartley, Chef Hot new dish Look for a very traditional and classic take on an Italian-style risotto with local Georgia Corn, as well as a reduced corn purée. The risotto is then topped with U10 diver scallops coming out of George Banks off the coast of Boston. We then garnish the dish with a 15-year-aged balsamic and local microgreens coming from Ashland Farms. Family meal We often approach that daily on whatever available trim we have or are testing out. I work with our pastry team on some sweet treat bites and things that they have been developing, allowing the staff to taste and share feedback. We typically work on different sauces and condiments and then try to sit down as a team and eat together before busy weekend service. I find that this is a very intimate and personable time, enjoying fellowship around the table with the team in great conversation. Menu refresh We’re simply looking at the season forecast with our purveyors and farms. When something doesn’t become available because of Mother Nature, that’s when we know. A great example is that right now, we are in the thick of summer tomatoes. We will go through the month of September or even early October, and we will ride summer until they tell us we can’t serve tomatoes anymore! Giving back When it comes to supporting the community, for the past seven years, we have partnered with Kennesaw State University’s

Amasa

culinary arts program, and we have an ever-evolving rotation of culinary students that come through our doors on their externship rotations lasting anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks. This opportunity allows us to educate and dive into the next generation of chefs, giving a young cook the confidence of taking that next step in the food service industry. We have found it very effective, and it’s a great full-circle moment when we hire students! Fan favorites Lobster Fra Diablo, which is a take on a very traditional spicy Italian tomato sauce with garlic and fresh Maine lobster. Also, salt and pepper calamari, which basically stays on the menu year-round; we flash fry calamari with traditional Chinese five spice and aromatics with a salad of fresh Thai basil, cilantro and stems, as well as a savory onion

Graze Craze

NFA Burger. Photo by Eric Meadows

and garnish with a lime wedge with togarashi chili. Developing our take on a very nice crab cake where we take fresh Jonah crab meat, a creamy imperial sauce for a binder and fresh ciabatta breadcrumbs. We serve this with grilled lemon, a seasonal green vegetable and a house-made remoulade sauce, keeping it very simple yet refined.

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/A L P HA R E T TA

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Ray's at Killer Creek

Cabernet Steakhouse

Luci's Steakhouse

City Lifestyle's picks for quintessential steakhouse experiences

RARE SCENE

Alpharetta has become a place where a great dinner is never far from home. That evolution is apparent in the growing steakhouse scene. While a good steak dinner once meant driving into Buckhead, Alpharetta now has 14 steakhouses within just 26.9 square miles, providing close-to-home options for weeknights, date nights and celebrations. The real strength of Alpharetta’s steakhouse scene is not the number of restaurants, but the range of experiences available. Here’s the menu.

FOR CLASSIC STEAKHOUSE APPEAL

For diners who appreciate the traditions of a steakhouse dinner – picture expertly prepared cuts, a strong bar and plenty of time to linger around the table – Little Alley Steak, Ruth’s Chris Steak House and Ray’s at Killer Creek offer distinctive options. Little Alley Steak brings classic steakhouse character to Downtown Alpharetta, pairing its South Main Street setting with bourbon-friendly bar energy and an atmosphere built for lingering. Ray’s at Killer Creek and Ruth’s Chris are Alpharetta stalwarts offering dependable choices.

FOR A POLISHED NIGHT OUT

Oak Steakhouse at Avalon and Butcher and Bottle in Downtown offer a refined setting for milestone dinners, while Eddie V’s and Lapeer Steak & Seafood each bring their own take on polished

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

steak-and-seafood dining. These spots are close to Alpharetta’s shopping, entertainment and walkable districts.

FOR CASUAL AND ELEVATED EVERYDAY DINING

Sometimes the goal is a comfortable family meal, a relaxed happy hour or an easy weeknight dinner that still feels like a treat. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill offers an easygoing, wood-fired option for happy hour or a casual meal near Avalon, while Outback Steakhouse is a familiar choice for a family weeknight meal, offering the kind of consistency that makes deciding where to eat simple. Cabernet Steakhouse brings classic American steakhouse polish to the Windward area, while nearby Connors Steak & Seafood offers a broad steak-and-seafood menu suited to everything from lunch meetings to family celebrations. Luci’s Steakhouse adds an Italian-influenced experience with seafood, wine and a more intimate atmosphere, while Coalition Steak & Seafood brings expressive American cuisine in a lively Downtown Alpharetta setting.

FOR SOMETHING UNEXPECTED

For diners looking for a more interactive or varied experience, Passador Brazilian Steakhouse brings the energy of churrasco-style dining, making it a natural fit for groups, celebrations and guests who want the meal itself to feel like part of the entertainment.

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A faith-filled tradition turning porches into beacons of gratitude and joy.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | EVE N T PLAN N IN G + SE RVICE S

ARTICLE BY STACEY SCOTT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHEILAH TRITT & ASHLEY PUTNAM

Praise Pumpkins

For most people, pumpkins are simply a sign of fall. They line porches, accent doorsteps and signal the change of seasons. But for Sheilah Tritt, pumpkins tell a much bigger story. They are symbols of gratitude, abundance and faith—and the foundation of a movement she calls Praise Pumpkins. The idea came to Sheilah in a Sunday church service. As she listened to a sermon about the power of praise, she found herself reflecting on the way autumn décor often leans toward themes of darkness. What if, she wondered, porches could instead tell a different story—one of light, joy and thanksgiving? “I remembered reading that pumpkins symbolize gratitude, harvest and abundance,” Sheilah explains. “Pumpkin seeds represent growth and multiplication. As we praise God for our blessings, our faith grows. As we encourage each other, we plant seeds of growth.” Over lunch with Barbara Williams, her longtime spiritual mentor and friend, Sheilah shared her dream of creating faith-centered porch displays that would celebrate the season

while honoring Christ. Barbara’s joyfilled encouragement gave Sheilah the confirmation she needed—and Praise Pumpkins was officially born.

More Than Décor

Every package includes a curated selection of colorful pumpkins, anchored by a gold cross pumpkin that reflects light and faith. Families also receive a “Count Your Blessings” activity to help them pause and reflect on the season, writing down the things they’re grateful for. To encourage generosity, each package comes with a gift pumpkin and a special card meant to brighten the day of a neighbor, teacher or friend. As the season of Thanksgiving approaches, Praise Pumpkins is more than decoration. It is an invitation—an invitation to pause, give thanks and let gratitude spill out onto the front steps and into the hearts of families, neighbors and communities. Order: praisepumpkins.com Instagram: @praise_pumpkins Facebook: facebook.com/praisepumpkins

Alpharetta’s

Own Farm Alpharetta’s own Old Rucker Farm and Park is open to the public, from sunup to sundown, seven days a week. Amanda Musilli is Community Agriculture & Sustainability Services Manager for the City of Alpharetta Recreation, Parks and Cultural Services and develops the vision and goals for the Community Agriculture Program, ensuring alignment with City of Alpharetta regulations. We caught up with her to talk all things FALL.

WHAT WILL YOU BE HARVESTING THIS MONTH?

We will begin harvesting the fall, or cool-weather crops, such as chard, collards, kale, and lettuce. Later in the season, we will begin to harvest the root vegetables, such as beets, turnips and radishes. The majority (about 90%) of the harvest is delivered to NFCC’s food pantry every Friday for their clients to add more fresh produce to their family’s plates. The other 10% of the harvest is sold by Cambridge High School Ag-Business students in their micro-farm business called AGaretta Box.

HOW CAN READERS HELP?

Volunteers are essential for Old Rucker Farm to sustain. With over 1,200 volunteers spending time at the farm each year, there is absolutely no way the farm would produce as much fresh food for the food pantry (or look as beautiful) without them. We have volunteer opportunities 4-5 days per week. Some days we are working on field maintenance, and that includes trellising, pulling weeds, and planting. On harvest days, every Friday, we harvest fresh vegetables and herbs, bundle, bag, weigh, pack, and then load into the truck for delivery to NFCC. During peak times of the year, we add greenhouse days to the volunteer opportunities, which involves seeding or potting up the seedlings which will be planted at the farm, distributed to our home and community gardeners, set out for the GrowA-Row and Homegrown Harvest growers, or delivered to one of our many partner sites, including 15 schools, two giving gardens, and two HOA gardens. In total, we grow approximately 31,000 seedlings from seed at Old Rucker Farm. All of our seeds are either organic or heirloom, and we start them in our germination room before they go outside into our new greenhouse (thanks to the ABA!) or our shade house. This month, check out these workshops: Hive Set Up, Farm to Table Lunch, Greenville Field Trip - Tour of Rabbit Crest Farms, All About Compost with Britt Simonton.

ARTICLE BY ALPHARETTA CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF

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COR N HOLE FOR A C AUSE Local restaurants support Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE

There’s a certain kind of restaurant that feeds far more than appetite. It pulls a whole neighborhood in, sets a longer table and turns an ordinary dinner into community. These are the places that show up for their people, and for a good cause. This is the spirit behind Marsh McLennan Agency’s Cocktails and Cornhole, where good food and friendly competition rally around the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. For more than 30 years, PBTF’s primary mission has been to fund medical research toward eradicating brain cancer in children. Also, the group works nationwide to provide family support services, including educational resources and peer-to-peer mentoring. The MMA Southeast Cocktails & Cornhole event is October 20, 2026. Spectators are invited to watch the fun and learn about PBTF. The event is from 3 pm to 6 pm at City Springs, Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center. Meet the two participating restaurants that embody a true sense of community and generosity

MARLOW’S TAVERN

Marlow’s Tavern is an upscale, polished-casual restaurant featuring the “Best of the Best” in American tavern fare served in a modern atmosphere. The menu offers a diverse combination of classic dishes — updated and elevated — alongside amazing handcrafted cocktails. With a warm, neighborhood-yet-contemporary feel, Marlow’s is the perfect gathering place and a natural complement to its modern-tavern menu. It’s the kind of room where a community comes together, which is exactly what a night like this calls for.

THE BUTCHER & BOTTLE

The Butcher & Bottle is a chef-led, Southern-inspired restaurant built around a simple belief: exceptional food, genuine hospitality and a great dining experience should be something guests enjoy regularly — not reserved only for special occasions. The menu is rooted in great steaks, fresh seafood and thoughtfully prepared Southern dishes, paired with craft cocktails and a carefully selected wine program, all delivered with intentional hospitality. That same generosity of spirit is what makes them a fitting partner in giving back. Together, they remind us that the best meals nourish a neighborhood — and that when we gather with purpose, everyone leaves fuller.

G IV IN G BAC K | FO O D + BE VE RAGE

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(404) 618-0588 rsandrews.com TACLA39769C Offer expires December 4, 2026. ** Rebate requires purchase of qualifying items between September 14, 2026 and December 4, 2026 from a participating Lennox® dealer. Contact your local participating Lennox® dealer for promotion details. Qualifying items must be installed by December 11, 2026. This offer applies to residential installations only. Rebate claims must be submitted (with the Dealer’s invoice to the homeowner listing all models and serial numbers) to www.lennoxconsumerrebates.com no later than January 10, 2027 11:59:59 p.m. ET. Rebate is paid in the form of a Lennox Prepaid Mastercard®. Use your card anywhere Mastercard is accepted. This card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International. Mastercard and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated. The Bancorp Bank, N.A.; Member FDIC. This is not a gift card. This card is issued for loyalty, award or promotional purposes. Please note that prepaid cards are subject to expiration, so pay close attention to the expiration date of the card. Conditions apply. See www.lennox.com/terms-and-conditions for complete terms and conditions. ^Offer available between September 14, 2026 and December 4, 2026. Requires purchase of qualifying Lennox® system. All applications for promotional financing are subject to credit review and approval. Minimum loan amount ranges from $500- $3,000 based on financing offer. Not all applicants will qualify. If approved, qualified buyers will receive 0% interest for 60 months (“Promotion Period”), with equal monthly payments of the financed principal amount. No penalty for prepayment at any time. If the amount financed is not paid in full prior to the expiration of the Promotion Period, or if a scheduled monthly payment is 31 days or more past due during the Promotion Period, the promotional terms are void and the Promotion Period will end. On the first calendar date following the end of the Promotion Period, the remaining unpaid portion of the amount financed will accrue interest at an Annual Percentage Rate (“APR”), which is the yearly rate of interest that is owed on the amount financed. Applicant’s APR will vary from 2.99% to 25%, based on applicant’s state, total financed amount, term length, and credit profile. Following the end of the Promotion Period, applicant must make equal monthly payments of remaining unpaid financed principal amount and accrued interest for a period of 36 to 60 months. Advertised rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Complete terms and conditions and Truth in Lending disclosures will be set forth in the Retail Installment Contract which you should review carefully. ^^Savings vary based on local energy provider and where you live. Contact your local utility provider or ask your local dealer for details. ©2026 Lennox Dealers are independently owned and operated businesses.

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OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/A L P HA R E T TA

Homemade peach pie at Bevers Kitchen

WHERE TEXAS WAS BORN (AND THE FOOD IS WORTH THE TRIP) A weekend guide to Washington County

ARTICLE BY STACY CONDE PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXIS FLEISIG

R OA D T R IP | TRAVEL

When in Texas, it's gotta be chicken fried steak

In 611 square miles of rolling Blackland Prairie, where bluebonnets create waves of violet-blue, you can experience ranch life two ways: dine on hearty, locally sourced meals and walk in the footsteps of the men who signed the Texas Declaration of Independence in 1836. Home to five charming communities — Brenham, Burton, Chappell Hill, Independence and Washington — it’s just a two-hour flight from Atlanta. Here’s how to spend a weekend.

Horses and wide open spaces

STAY

When in Texas, a ranch feels apropos. The 54-acre Milk & Honey Ranch in Burton will cater to your every whim, with multiple lodging options, a pool, hot tubs, beach club, spa, hiking trails and a farm-to-table restaurant. At the end of a secluded country road outside Brenham, Rockin’ Star Ranch spreads across 150 acres of sprawling pastures and wide-open vistas, with 10 cabins, a fishing pond, outdoor pool, skeet shooting and horseback riding.

SEE/DO

Washington-on-the-Brazos On March 2, 1836, Texas delegates met here to announce independence from Mexico. Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site offers interactive exhibits, living history demonstrations and a replica of Independence Hall. Barrington Plantation — home of Dr. Anson Jones, the last president of Texas — is staffed by costumed interpreters doing the actual daily work of a mid-19th century farm. Brenham The county seat anchors the region with a downtown centered on the courthouse square. Visit the Brenham Heritage Museum

and the Fire Museum, home to one of only three remaining American LaFrance Type 38 fire engines. Burton The Texas Cotton Gin Museum houses the lone remaining fully operational cotton gin in Texas, still in its original historic setting.

SHOP

Leftovers Antiques — 17,000 sprawling square feet of antiques, luxury bedding and homeware sourced from around the world.

DRINK & DINE

Danny’s — Cullen and Danny Holle’s seasonal small plates, Texas beers, cocktails and legendary burgers. Bevers Kitchen — Homestyle favorites like chicken fried steak and homemade pies in a 1907 Victorian cottage in Chappell Hill. Blue Bell Ice Cream — Made in Brenham since 1907. A full-blown Texas institution. Floyd’s Lounge — Cocktails inspired by pop music (Watermelon Sugar) and classic films (Whiskey Business). MilkandHoneyRanch.com RockinStarBrenham.com VisitBrenhamTexas.com OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/A L P HA R E T TA

ALE’S Beer Tour ARTICLE BY DENNIS MALCOLM BYRON AKA ALE SHARPTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA BYRON

Traveling the world as a beer pioneer, journalist and influencer, I’m always on the hunt for one of my favorite dynamic duos: great beer and food. And although I’ve experienced some incredible programs across the globe, I’m proud to say my own backyard of Atlanta boasts one of the best concentrations of destinations taking both seriously. Here are four of the favorites that I regularly visit and show love to because, yes, the beer program is on point, but the food is next level as well. Now, I have rules. I avoid pork and beef, try to stay away from fried foods, and do my best to keep things healthy. Why? Besides staying in shape, I have to save some calories for the beer! There has to be a respectable tap list with seasonal specials on rotation, service must be consistently personable and the dishes recommended here need to be consistently delectable. I’m also mostly staying inside Atlanta’s I-285 Perimeter, limiting it to places I visit at least once a month, and excluding places actually brewing beer on-site. Otherwise, I’d be writing a book. That’s another installment. And with that, happy sipping… and noshing.

BARLEYGARDEN KITCHEN & CRAFT BAR — ALPHARETTA

After globetrotting and developing his expertise sip by sip, trying hundreds of beers along the way, my friend Kraig Torres founded Hop City Craft Beer & Wine in 2009. Eight years later, he got into lifting forks alongside beer and opened Barleygarden. Located in the center of the upscale Halcyon mixed-use development, this two-level beer drinker’s paradise boasts a whopping 85 constantly rotating taps pouring selections from around the world.

LOCA LS ON LY | FO O D + BE VE RAGE

The made-from-scratch food is proudly straightforward, pounding its chest with popular double-fried wings, build-your-own burgers, salads and an array of handhelds. I swear by the Kung Pao Brussels sprouts and fish and chips. The latter gets its own remix with a lemon-pepper beer batter and rotating catch of the day, which can range from traditional haddock and cod to other selections that keep things interesting. Kraig now has six locations, so he and his team are evidently doing something right. Very right. Barleygardenkitchen.com

BRICK STORE PUB — DOWNTOWN DECATUR

Going on 30 years in 2027, Brick Store remains a globally renowned beer institution. More than 30 taps show love to independently owned breweries, with predominantly domestic craft downstairs, Belgian selections upstairs and cask-conditioned pours adding another dimension to their beer game. The made-from-scratch, elevated pub fare keeps pace, from rotating cheese and charcuterie to house-smoked wings, St. Louis-style pierogies and the playfully named “Brick-Fil-A” fried chicken sandwich. My move is pan-fried trout over the chopped or arugula salad. My favorite nap-inducing meal is the hearty chicken pot pie topped with pillowy goodness. Do it. Brickstorepub.com

THE PORTER BEER BAR — LITTLE FIVE POINTS

After beloved original owners Molly Gunn and Nick Rutherford moved on and The Porter took a break in 2022, thankfully this Atlanta institution returned two years later under new ownership. Co-owner and executive chef E.J. Hodgkinson is one of the nicest people in the industry, knows how to curate a beer roster and chefs his tail off. Everything—and I mean everything—I’ve tried is stellar, and friends with more adventurous diets back me up on the rest. My favorites include the Little Gem & Baby Kale salad, black truffle deviled eggs and tuna melt, while the fried fish sandwich for lunch and legendary goat cheese fritters form my cheat duo. With 60 taps, roughly 800 bottled beers and a no-joke culinary program, I strut through The Porter’s door at least twice a month. Theporterbeerbar.com

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OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/A L P HA R E T TA

OCTOBER 2026

events

D RB R ANDON N AYLO R.CO M

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S

OCTOBER 9 TH

A Sanctuary of Hope Benefit Matilda’s Music Venue – 875 Hickory Flat Rd. Milton | 6:00 PM

PICKLE BETTER, BEND EASIER, MOVE STRONGER Expert hip and knee care by Dr. Brandon Naylor Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon Rediscover Freedom of Movement! If HIP or KNEE pain is limiting your life, it’s time to take the next step. Dr. Brandon Naylor is a nationally recognized expert in joint pain, offering a spectrum of treatments, from injections to minimally invasive and advanced arthroplasty techniques proven to reduce recovery time and maximize function.

“I was back on my feet in no time. Dr. Naylor gave me my life back!”

Wire and Wood Songwriters Festival Downtown Alpharetta | 6:00 PM The 2026 Wire & Wood Festival will showcase more than 30 performances on six outdoor stages. The festival recruits singer/songwriters each year to perform their original music. This year’s headliners will feature acclaimed country singer-songwriter Corey Smith, and platinum-certified rock band Sister Hazel will close out the festival Saturday night. Food from local restaurants and food trucks.

Symphony at Sunset: Halloween Spooktacular Ameris Bank Amphitheatre in Alpharetta | 5:00 PM

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OCTOBER 9 TH

OCTOBER 11TH

– Susan M., Age 67, Total Knee Replacement

You’re invited to experience a night filled with laughter, music, friendship and purpose at A Sanctuary of Hope. Proceeds will help support the life-changing mission of The Sanctuary of North Georgia. For more information visit GiveButter.com/c/ a-sanctuary-of-hope

Take in a spellbinding symphony performance, as the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performs Halloween classics live — including Danse Macabre and film score favorites from Harry Potter and E.T.

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Find Your Perfect Home This Summer Whether you're searching for a brand-new home, a move-in ready retreat, or a rare financing opportunity, we have exceptional options waiting for you.

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OCTOBER 12TH

ALPHARETTA FALL FEST Alpharetta Welcome Center | 11:00 AM Celebrate Fall at the Alpharetta Welcome Center! Filled with kids’ activities, giveaways, treats and photo opportunities, this is the perfect way to enjoy the season. AwesomeAlpharetta.com OCTOBER 17TH

1882 at Old Canton – Tanya Way, Ball Ground Just a short stroll to Downtown Ball Ground Come explore our two additional model homes Elevator-capable design Join our VIP Interest List for updates, availability, and first access

BOO BASH The Grove at Wills Park | 4:00 PM Scarecrow display winners will be announced at Boo Bash. Enjoy free kids' activities, food, crafts, games and music, and find out if your Scarecrow is a winner! Award announcements begin at 6.30 pm. Boo Bash takes place at The Grove, located behind the Alpharetta Community Center, from 4:00–8:00 pm. Free admission. OCTOBER 20 TH

1000 Overlook Terrace, Ball Ground, GA 30107 Luxury Estate with over 7,700 sq. ft. of luxury Resort-style pool for effortless entertaining A Chef’s Kitchen & Scullery designed to impress Spa, steam room, gym & golf simulator 6 Bedrooms, 6 Full Baths & 2 Half Baths Private 2.58-acre estate

PAINT THE TOWN PLEIN AIR FESTIVAL Downtown Alpharetta | 8:00 AM Paint the Town is a 5-day artist invitational where artists specializing in all media forms and from around the country will paint outdoors around our city. Plein air, from the French en plein air, is the method of painting outdoors directly from life. Residents and visitors are invited to see the artists in action during this week-long event. ArtsAlpharetta.org

14 45 Badingham Drive, Cumming, GA 30041 Rare 2.5% assumable loan Master on Main Resort Style Longlake amenities Over 4400 square feet including a spacious, unfinished terrace level offering flexible living space

From modern new construction to a home with exceptional financing, these featured properties offer something for every buyer. Tammie Carter ENGEL & VÖLKERS ATLANTA M +1 770-820-7127 | O +1 404-845-7724 tammie.carter@evatlanta.com tammiecarter.evatlanta.com 2610 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 110 Alpharetta, Georgia 30009

EVE N TS

Contact me today to schedule your private tour or learn more about these available properties.

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No. 1 Individual Agent in Alpharetta SALES VOLUME Y TD 2026 E X P E R T I S E A N D F U L L S E R V I C E W H E N B U Y I N G O R S E L L I N G YO U R H OM E MONICA BLANCO c. 404.409.9388 | o. 770.284.9900 | MONICA@ANSLEYRE.COM 31 CHURCH STREET, ALPHARETTA, GA 30009 | ANSLEYRE.COM All data believed to be accurate but not warranted. Ansley upholds Equal Housing Opportunity & Federal Fair Housing policies. If you have an existing relationship with another brokerage, this is not intended as a solicitation. Source: Brokermetrics ytd 2026, July 1,2026, Alpharetta, all property types & prices