Anthem, AZ October 2023

October’s Gastronomic

Delights: A Toast to Food and Drink!

FOOD + BEVERAGE SAVOR LOCAL CULINARY TREASURES

EXPLORE NAPA VALLEY'S VIBRANT FOOD SCENE

DELICIOUS AUTUMNINSPIRED RECIPES

OCTOBER 2023

Founders Jay & Maria Toupin

Fall’s Culinary Journey: Discovering Local Restaurants Beyond Their Menus

Welcome fall! With the changing seasons comes a change in what we are craving, and with fall that often means comfort food. October is our most delectable issue of the year, filled with some of our favorite dishes and beverages around town. We had the pleasure of sitting down with local restaurants, and learning about what makes them unique and special—so get ready to get to know your local culinary gems. We also included a few new recipes for you to try at home, whether you’re cooking for just your family or for entertaining guests. The smells of fall bring memories to my mind of sitting in mom’s kitchen, and the aroma of cinnamon, apple, pumpkin, chili, and soups of any kind brings me right back to those childhood tables. We all are taken back to those childhood memories of dinners, parties, and special events when our moms were hard at work creating our favorite foods and the aromas that got our taste buds ready.

There is definitely an art to creating a flavorful dish that not only satisfies our taste buds but evokes memories. The aroma of certain spices and foods can take us right back to our childhood, which can be incredibly powerful and comforting. Food brings us all together, and whether we are sharing a meal with loved ones or enjoying a night out on the town, the time spent while enjoying food is invaluable. As always, thank you for reading, and we’ll see you around town.

Bon appétit!

MEL FONSECA, PUBLISHER @ANTHEMCITYLIFESTYLE

October 2023

PUBLISHER

Mel Fonseca | mel.fonseca@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Alexandra James | alexandra.james@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Alison Bailin Batz

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Ashley Hathaway

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

Proverbs 3:5-6

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Implants and Full Mouth Rehab

Emergency Treatment Including Extractions and Root Canals

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Discount Plan and Easy Financing Available

CBCT 3D X-rays for Accurate Diagnosis

Most procedures are done in-house with no need to go elsewhere

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

firefighters extend a warm welcome to Firehouse Subs in a community partnership celebration.

celebrates success with ribbon-cutting, marking a colorful new beginning.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @anthemcitylifestyle

1: Daisy Mountain

Sonoran Pet Resort. 3: Spray-Net

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

The Nixer: NA Pop-Up Bar

In Phoenix, The Nixer leads the thriving non-alcoholic (NA) and "sober curious" movement. Their skilled 'nixologists' create intricate cocktails using premium non-alcoholic spirits and elixirs, offering an alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages. This venue caters to mindful drinkers, providing a space for socialization without alcohol. Distinguished by their commitment to health-conscious ingredients like adaptogens, nootropics, and CBD, The Nixer connects proudly with those embracing sobriety, making it a hub for Phoenix's vibrant sober community. Visit thenixer.com for more information!

Sonoran Pet Resort

Sonoran Desert Pet Resort aims to excel as a premier doggie daycare and boarding facility. With multiple locations, including Peoria, Phoenix, New River, Cave Creek, Carefree, and Anthem, they prioritize providing a safe and caring environment for pets. For inquiries, individuals can reach out to them at (623) 551-5299.

Spray-Net Home Painting

Spray-Net revolutionizes home painting, offering homeowners an innovative approach to enhance their property's appearance. Located at 39506 N. Daisy Mountain Dr Ste 122-285, Anthem, AZ, their team in Arizona can be reached at (602) 835-8741 or estimation@spray-net.com for transformative home improvement solutions.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Anthem

OCTOBER 2023

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Our community is brimming with incredible food and drinks to indulge in and we’ve selected some of our picks that you must experience for yourself. Bon appetit and cheers!

Our Picks for Foods to Feast On

LAMP: Indulge in artisanal wood-fired pies, antipasti, salads, beer, and wine at Lamp Pizzeria – your chic pizza haven! 8900 E Pinnacle Peak Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

TANDOORI TIMES INDIAN BISTRO: Experience the exquisite flavors of India at Tandoori times. A culinary journey awaits with authentic cuisine, rich spices, and waarm ambiance. 14891 N Northsight Blvd #119, Scottsdale, AZ 85260

EL ENCANTO DOS: Savor the charm of Mexican cuisine at El Encanto Dos. Delight in homey Mexican eats with gourmet flair in an elegant, colorful hacienda-inspired restaurant. 1112 E Carefree Hwy #0104, Phoenix, AZ 85085

BUCK & RIDER: At Buck & Rider, savor impeccably fresh seafood, sustainably sourced ingredients, handpicked crab, and B&R Reserve beef. Crafted cocktails with premium spirits. Louisiana-inspired excellence. 7015 E Mayo Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85054

THE VIG MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN: Vig McDowell Mountain: Southwestern pub grub, craft cocktails, live music, dog-friendly patios. Fast service, ideal for lunch or dinner 10199 East Bell Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85260

Buck & Rider

Once again, your editor steps into the role of the exclusive local experience curator for Anthem City Lifestyle magazine. Alexandra James, a talented artist and culinary enthusiast, dedicates herself to discovering the trendiest dining destinations. Explore her curated selection of stylish restaurants, embracing the essence of gourmet living.

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR Alexandra James

ARTICLE BY ALEXANDRA JAMES

CULINARY DELIGHTS

the burger experience, infusing it with creativity and passion. With locally sourced ingredients and inventive recipes, Tru Burger redefines comfort food into an extraordinary delight.

Just a short jaunt away in New River, The Road Runner encapsulates the spirit of Southwestern cuisine. Evoking a rustic charm, this eatery honors Arizona's culinary heritage with robust flavors and hearty dishes. From smoky mesquite nuances to zesty salsas, each bite at The Road Runner embodies tradition and innovation in equal measure.

IN ANTHEM AND BEYOND.

SAVORING NORTH VALLEY’S FINEST EATERIES

Nestled in the heart of the North Valley, which encompasses Anthem and its neighboring regions, an exquisite culinary tapestry awaits your exploration. As the brisk October breeze ushers in the fall season, Anthem City Lifestyle proudly presents a gastronomic journey through the area's most remarkable eateries. In this Food and Beverage issue, we're excited to showcase a curated selection of restaurants that transcend geographical boundaries to deliver exceptional dining experiences that will linger in your memory.

Our odyssey begins at the celebrated L'Entrata Wine Bar, an esteemed establishment in Anthem. As a current advertising client, L'Entrata takes center stage with its impeccable wine selection and an array of delectable small plates. The inviting ambiance and meticulously crafted dishes make it an ideal haven to unwind and relish life's simple pleasures.

For aficionados of the classic burger, Tru Burger emerges as a definitive destination. Situated in Anthem, this culinary gem reimagines

For connoisseurs in search of both elegance and breathtaking views, Keeler's Neighborhood Steakhouse in Carefree is a culinary haven. Indulge in refined culinary offerings while savoring prime cuts of steak and the elegant ambiance. As an extra treat, Keeler's offers a rooftop patio with a Western view of Black Mountain, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Impeccable service completes the picture, making Keeler's a true masterpiece for those with the most discerning palates.

Journeying to Cave Creek, Pomodoro captures the essence of Italy amidst the desert landscape. With artisanal pasta and wood-fired pizzas, this establishment brings authentic Italian flavors to the forefront. Each dish at Pomodoro narrates a story of Italian tradition, prepared with devotion and shared with a warm smile.

In Cave Creek, Raven's View emerges as a bastion of eclectic dining, gracing patrons with an incredible eastern view of the edge of the Tonto National Forest. Spanning continents and flavors, this establishment's menu invites culinary exploration. Whether indulging in Asianinspired dishes or savoring American classics, Raven's View offers a symphony of tastes that cater to diverse preferences.

For an experience that blends nourishment and camaraderie, venture to Black Mountain Cafe in Carefree. This inviting space not only serves delectable dishes but also fosters a sense of belonging. With potential advertising interest, Black Mountain Cafe exemplifies the fusion of food and fellowship, creating an experience that touches the heart.

Embark on a Mediterranean escapade at Athens in Carefree. With an emphasis on fresh ingredients and authentic recipes, Athens brings the flavors of Greece to the table. From savory gyros to flaky spanakopita, every bite transports you to the shores of the Aegean.

As we anticipate the future, The Tee Box is set to open its doors in October, offering more than just exceptional dining. Nestled in Cave Creek, this establishment promises indoor golf bays, a restaurant, and a bar, fusing entertainment with delectable cuisine. Chef Jess and his innovative menu provide a tantalizing sneak peek of the delights to come.

In the North Valley, encompassing Anthem and its neighboring areas, an array of culinary treasures awaits your discovery. From upscale steakhouses exuding elegance to burger joints radiating comfort, and from international delights to local classics, the region offers a diverse range of culinary experiences. This October, let these exceptional restaurants paint your plate with flavors that linger long after the meal ends.

Do The Monster Mash With These Fall-Focused Cocktails Perfect For Halloween Festivities

spook - tails

ARTICLE BY SAM LAGE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLETTE MARTIN

• 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

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!

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!

PUMPKIN BRAIN PURÉE

Discover Kiki Rae’s

Coastal Charms in the Heart of Cave Creek, Arizona

Nestled in the heart of Cave Creek, Arizona, Kiki Rae's is not just a restaurant; it's a labor of love, a testament to friendship, and a tribute to cherished memories. Co-owners Rachel Pugh and Kym JohnsonWesthoff have embarked on a culinary journey that has seen them evolve from coworkers to friends, business partners, and now, the proud proprietors of this vibrant coastal-inspired eatery.

Their story begins in the Pacific Northwest, where both Rachel and Kym hail from small towns in Washington state. Rachel fondly recalls her hometown of Monroe, while Kym has roots in Enumclaw. It was in Arizona, far from their Washington roots, that fate brought them together. "The moment I met Kym, I immediately held on to her as my little piece of home," Rachel shares.

Both Rachel and Kym had extensive restaurant experience and dreams of owning their own place someday. Kym had even run her own successful catering business for seven years. Their journey took a significant turn in 2018 when Kym acquired Ravens View, a charming venue that they transformed into a hidden gem. Despite the challenges of 2020, the restaurant continued to thrive.

However, life had more twists in store for Rachel. In 2020, amidst the pandemic, she faced personal challenges as her mother battled stage 4 uterine

cancer. Kym was her unwavering pillar of support through it all. Unfortunately, they lost Rachel's mother in December of that year. It was a trying time, but it strengthened their bond.

Rachel briefly stepped away from the public eye to care for her young child, but her passion for the restaurant industry never waned. When an opportunity arose in July 2022 to open a new restaurant, Kym reached out to her with an enticing proposal. Rachel's initial skepticism about the space melted away as she saw its potential. "I'm ready for some good, positive things in life," she told Kym. They signed the lease in August 2022 and, with relentless determination, had Kiki Rae's doors open by June 1, 2023.

The restaurant's name, Kiki Rae's, holds a heartfelt origin in the loss of Kym's dear friend Annie. Annie's son Bryce, who is Kym's godson, affectionately calls Kym "Auntie Kiki." This endearing nickname became the inspiration behind "Kiki." Meanwhile, "Rae" pays homage to Rachel's grandmother, who lovingly called her Rae Rae and also passed away in 2022 due to Alzheimer's. Together, the name beautifully honors their cherished loved ones.

Kiki Rae's is more than just a restaurant; it's a community hub, a place where locals and tourists alike can savor the essence of coastal flavors, influenced by the Pacific Northwest and the idyllic shores of Maui,

Hawaii. "We wanted to bring a bit of that flavor and atmosphere to Cave Creek, a little bohemian beach vibe," Kym explains.

The menu is a testament to their diverse culinary experiences, offering classic dishes from Seattle and Hawaii alongside creative cocktails that Rachel takes pride in crafting. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and dedication to customer service aim to make every visit feel like a vacation.

Kym and Rachel envision Kiki Rae's as a standout among the diverse culinary options in Cave Creek. Their focus is not only on delivering an excellent dining experience but also on enriching the local culture. "We want to be the place everyone was wishing for, the place Cave Creek was lacking," they say.

Their journey as restaurant owners is defined by the joy of bringing people together, creating unforgettable memories, and fostering a sense of community. "We find the most fulfillment in seeing and hearing customers' reactions to what we have created," they express.

Kiki Rae's is more than a restaurant; it's a testament to friendship, resilience, and the power of pursuing one's dreams. Rachel and Kym have combined their passion, creativity, and love for the culinary arts to create a haven of relaxation and delight in the heart of Cave Creek.

ARTICLE BY ALEXANDRA JAMES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY

“We wanted to bring a bit of that flavor and atmosphere to Cave Creek, a little bohemian beach vibe.”

Restaurateurs

Kym Johnson-Westhoff (left) and Rachel Pugh (right).

Elegant ambiance at Kiki Rae's.

Seared Ahi, a favorite fish dish at Kiki Rae's. Kym Johnson-Westhoff enjoys a classic martini.

Always a good time with friends

and co-owners Rachel Pugh (left) and Kym Johnson-Wwestohoff (right).

Rachel Pugh serving up a tasty cocktail.

D r . J o s e p h P i e r s e i s t h e f o u n d e r o f P r e c i s i o n O r a l a n d M a x i l l o f a c i a l S u r g e r y i n P h o e n i x H e i s o n e o f t h e f e w d o c t o r s i n t h e c o u n t r y t h a t i s s p e c i a l i z e d i n b o t h f i e l d s o f O r a l a n d M a x i l l o f a c i a l S u r g e r y , a s w e l l a s P r o s t h o d o n t i c s . D r . P i e r s e a n d h i s t e a m a r e c o m m i t t e d t o p r o v i d i n g t h e b e s t c a r e a n d e n s u r i n g t h a t y o u r s u r g e r y a n d p o s t - o p e x p e r i e n c e i s a s p a i n l e s s a s p o s s i b l e

D r . P i e r s e a n d t h e P O M S f a m i l y p r o u d l y s u p p o r t o u r m i l i t a r y p e r s o n n e l , p o l i c e o f f i c e r s a n d f i r e f i g h t e r s n a t i o n w i d e W e a r e h o n o r e d t o c a r e f o r o u r h e r o e s , a s w e l l a s t h e i r l o v e d o n e s T h a n k y o u f o r t h e p r i v i l e g e a n d t h a n k y o u f o r y o u r s e r v i c e !

SIP, SWIRL, AND SAVOR YOUR WAY THROUGH YOUNTVILLE, THE CULINARY HEART OF NAPA

DESTINATION DELICIOUS

Looking for a once-in-a-lifetime epicurean experience?

Yountville, which is nestled into Napa County with vineyards in every direction, is a treasure trove of foodie greatness at every turn. Here is how to take a bite out of it all.

ARTICLE BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

RH YOUNTVILLE RESTAURANT

The flashy, splashy RH Yountville is hard to miss as it takes up nearly a full block along Yountville’s ultra-walkable downtown. The Restoration Hardwareowned property is a wine, food, and shopping mecca comprised of five separate experiences—an indoor/ outdoor restaurant with a glass roof surrounded by 100-year-old olive trees and adorned with dramatic crystal chandeliers; a two-story wine-tasting space with its own share of crystal chandeliers and a sleek limestone bar; a limited-production wine center; an espresso bar; and a boutique design gallery grander in scale than even its ever-so-lavish sister property at the Scottsdale Quarter in Scottsdale.

Award-winning chef Brendan Sodikoff leads the kitchen, sourcing seasonal ingredients from nearby farms and using them as inspiration for both whimsical, shareable, and New American fare, as well as twists on comfort-food classics. His team allows vegetables to shine right along with proteins, making it the perfect place for all diets. There are at least 40 wines by the glass on the menu at any given time, many from neighboring wineries. The expertly trained staff has pairing suggestions—be they wine, craft beer, or craft cocktails—for each dish, offering recommendations based on guests’ palates and preferences over trends and their personal tastes. RH.com/yountville/restaurant

TASTING ROOM TREATS

Yountville’s many wineries and vineyards toss out tradition—bellying up to a bar for a flight of wine with crackers to cleanse the palate or a basic meat and cheese board—in favor of interactive foodie fun when it comes to its tastings.

Handwritten Wines , for example, offers a Breadand-Butter Experience. During the 90-minute seated event, guests can enjoy white truffle potato chips and Bouchon Bakery baguettes, along with multiple mouthwatering artisan butters. The butters are handmade to complement five of the winery’s most awarded varietals that are made on the Napa Valley hillside and most coveted vineyard blocks. HandWrittenWines.com

Priest Ranch , which is next door to Handwritten, boasts a Bacon and Wine Tasting. A must if you love meat and wine, the 90-minute experience marries four wines with its own bacon, each of which has been flavored with everything from honey to harissa to Italian herbs to bring out distinct notes in the wine. PriestRanchWines.com

Silver Trident Winery, across the two-lane street from Priest Ranch and Handwritten—so a one-minute walk— is home to what it calls the Potato Chip Extravaganza. True to its name, those who book this crunch-tastic tasting are treated to five types of potato chips, each sourced from a small producer. Each chip comes with a glass of wine to accompany it. The combination will take your taste buds on a magical mystery tour of flavor. SilverTridentWinery.com

JCB Tasting Salon , approximately 300 feet from Silver Trident, is home to a Caviar and Sparkling Wine Pairing. This dive into the ultimate in decadence pairs four high-end sparkling wines with four distinct artisanal caviars. Prepare for bubbly effervescence and over-the-top indulgence. JCBcollection.com

Chandon is nearly a mile from the others, but well worth the three-minute drive. During its ambitious Epicurean Experience, chef Juan Cabrera highlights the beauty of bubbles by pairing his favorites with five precisely plated works of culinary art. Chandon.com

Baldacci Family Vineyards sits at the intersection of Yountville and Stag’s Leap, and its Perfect Pairings program is just that. The nibble-heavy experience explores the science of how wine and food amplify each other, and even offers suggestions of what to pair with your personal favorite bites and sips.

BaldacciVineyards.com

RH Yountville. Photo courtesy RH Yountville

ROMANTIC RESORT RESTAURANTS

As one might imagine, all the accommodations in the region drip luxury, but Hotel Yountville, Bardessono Hotel and Spa, and North Block Hotel stand out, thanks in great part to their dining options.

Hotel Yountville , just steps from more than a dozen tasting rooms and boutiques and built using river rocks from the nearby Napa River, has elegance to spare—and that extends to Heritage Oak, its signature eatery. Guests in the know always arrive prior to their reservations for killer craft cocktails (and adult popsicles!) at the Y Bar before being seated for elevated comfort food infused with wine country sophistication. HotelYountville.com

Bardessono Hotel and Spa is approximately two blocks from Hotel Yountville. The striking, sprawling LEED Platinum Certified property, situated within its own vineyard, is committed to providing a lavish experience for guests and diners within a sustainable environment. Its world-renowned Lucy Restaurant & Bar—named for the Bardessono family’s matriarch—serves up craveable farm-to-fork dishes with global flair, using ingredients from the hotel’s orchards, on-site certified organic farming garden, and similarly minded farms and purveyors across the region. Bonus: The dog-friendly restaurant also has a menu for pups. Bardessono.com

North Block Hotel, which is nearly next door to RH Yountville, features all things wood-fired and wonderful at its primarily al fresco Restaurant at North Block. Beyond the gorgeous grilled main dishes, North Block is a happy hour hot spot thanks to its daily Oyster Hour, where fresh oysters are just $1, as well as a local craft beer selection and seasonally changing menu of scrumptious sourdough pizzas. NorthBlockHotel.com

A selection of options at Lucy Restaurant & Bar at Bardessono Hotel and Spa

CELEB CHEF SUPPER CLUB

No gourmet guide to Yountville would be complete without some stargazing. Many of the world’s most celebrated celebrity chefs sharpen their knives and showcase their skills in Yountville.

French Laundry helped put the region on the map. The prix fixe spot—named by Anthony Bourdain as the best restaurant in the world—is one of the only restaurants to hold three Michelin stars. Every dish tells a story, and every visit is unique. Founder Thomas Keller is a veteran of several Food Network shows, a staple of talk shows, and a guest judge on Top Chef. FrenchLaundry.com

Mustards Grill , a casual, yet elegant spot, is known for American fare and is named to honor Napa’s yellow mustard flowers that provide vital nutrients to the vines. The restaurant is covered in them, save for the space carved out for its organic garden. Its founder is bestselling cookbook author and Top Chef: Masters contender Cynthia Pawlcyn. MustardsGrill.com

Bottega Napa Valley excels at bold Italian flavors in a dizzyingly delicious setting complete with dreamy stone fireplaces and glass chandeliers. Emmy® award-winning chef Michael Chiarello helms Bottega, always seeking to authentically connect guests with the flavors from his family’s roots in Southern Italy.

BottegaNapaValley.com

Bistro Jeanty brings the French countryside to Yountville. The brainchild of Michelin star and James Beard Award-winner Philippe Jeanty, the bistro has been a Napa staple since 1998. Today, Philippe’s daughter Camille continues his legacy, creating each menu as an homage to her father’s favorite childhood food memories from his native France, and diners taste the love in every bite. BistroJeanty.com

Bottega Napa Valley

Bistro Jeanty

Heartwarming Pot Pie

SAVOR THE COZY COMFORT OF FALL WITH DELECTABLE POT PIES

As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of cooler Arizona temperatures, indulge in a quintessential fall favorite to get into the seasonal spirit. Pot pies, with their flaky golden crusts and flavorful fillings, become the epitome of comfort food. In this Food and Beverage feature, we embark on a culinary journey through the world of pot pies, where the perfect marriage of crust and filling awaits.

At the core of every pot pie lies a delightful duet – a golden, flaky crust embracing an array of sumptuous fillings. Whether your preference leans toward the classic chicken and vegetables or yearns for the richness of beef and mushrooms, pot pies provide the canvas for a multitude of flavors to unite in culinary harmony.

Autumn’s abundance graces the pot pie, where seasonal vegetables, tender meats, and aromatic herbs converge to create a symphony of flavors. Picture succulent roasted turkey, nestled beside sweet potatoes and cranberries, or the comforting blend of butternut squash and sage capturing the essence of fall in each bite.

Pot pies are your canvas to craft the perfect creation, tailored to your cravings. Experiment with diverse combinations, from seafood medleys with shrimp and scallops to vegetarian options featuring roasted root vegetables and creamy béchamel. Explore different crusts, from traditional pastry to puff pastry –your pot pie is an expression of your culinary imagination.

Beyond its taste, the pot pie offers a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Crafting a pot pie, from chopping ingredients to the gentle baking, is a labor of love that infuses each layer with care. The aroma fills your kitchen, and the golden crust emerges, signaling a heartwarming meal shared with loved ones.

This October, let pot pies grace your table, enveloping you in layers of flavor and comfort. Relish the tender meats, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, capturing the essence of fall’s cozy embrace. Whether seeking solace on a chilly evening or a reason to gather with loved ones, pot pies offer a culinary adventure that encapsulates the spirit of the season.

ARTICLE BY ALEXANDRA JAMES

Rustic Turkey and Butternut

Squash Pot Pie

ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded turkey

• 2 cups cubed butternut squash

• 1 cup diced carrots

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 1/2 cup diced onion

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup butter

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon dried sage

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 package store-bought pie crusts directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent. Whole

3. Add cubed butternut squash and diced carrots to the skillet. Cook until slightly tender.

4. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for a couple of minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

5. Slowly add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Allow the mixture to thicken.

6. Add cooked turkey, frozen peas, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Stir until the ingredients are well combined. Remove from heat.

7. Roll out one pie crust and place it in a greased pie dish.

8. Pour the turkey and vegetable mixture into the pie crust.

9. Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Seal the edges of the crusts together and cut a few slits on top to allow steam to escape.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

11. Allow the pot pie to cool slightly before serving.

Embrace the flavors of fall with Rustic Turkey and Butternut Squash Pot Pie, a warm and comforting dish to enjoy with loved ones this season.

Whether large or small customize your pies by forming the edges to your liking.

Feed Your Soul

Food is exciting to cook, and satisfying to eat but is it enjoyable to read? Novels where food is prominently featured can be a veritable feast for the eyes. Food imagery, also called gustatory imagery, adds depth to a novel, providing a springboard for all kinds of descriptive and symbolic language. Different dishes can transport a reader to new regions of the world, reveal a character’s culture, or symbolically deepen the meaning of a text. So, dive into this list of autumn reads and don’t forget to save room for seconds.

Fall in love with food-centric fiction

ARTICLE BY HANNAH BARRICKS

Stanley Park

by Timothy Taylor

True crime fans and foodies alike will enjoy this beautifully written novel. The novel follows a Vancouver based chef, Jeremy Papier and his failing bistro. As Papier tries to hold his dreams together, his homeless father drags him into a real-life, 1940s “cold case” investigation. The novel mindfully uses the investigation as well as Papier’s commitment to locally grown foods to pay tribute to Vancouver’s landscape and history.

The School of Essential Ingredients

by Erica Bauermeister

Love is in the air at this Monday night cooking school. The novel follows a cast of hapless students as they are instructed in both the kitchen and in life by the school’s owner, Lillian. Lillian is the group’s fairy godmother as she hands out morsels of advice and challenges the students with advanced recipes. A cozy read, be prepared to fall in love with the decadence of the school’s dishes as well as the sweet message that lingers long after you put down the book.

A Moveable Feast

by Ernest Hemingway

Published after his untimely death, A Moveable Feast is Hemingway’s memoir. A love letter to 1920s Paris and the literary movement, Hemingway charters the reader through his early years there, one cafe at a time. Along the way, familiar characters like Gertrude Stein and F. Scott Fitzgerald float in and out. This no-frills prose will stick to your ribs and leave you satisfied.

The Sol Majestic

by Ferrett Steinmetz

If you love science fiction, this big-hearted, culinary space opera is sure to hit the spot. The story follows impoverished Kenna, an aspiring guru who hungrily wanders the cosmos until he wins dinner at the galaxy’s most renowned restaurant, The Sol Majestic. A novel that is both fun and thought provoking, Steinmetz uses striking food imagery to explore what truly excites the spirit.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

OCTOBER 7TH

Purse Impressions

Anniversary Open House

7171 E CAVE CREEK RD, UNIT Q CAVE CREEK, AZ 85331 | 12:00 PM

Celebrate three years of supporting children in need. Shop stylish purses for a cause, donate supplies, and enjoy refreshments. Bid on unique items in our silent auction, savor live entertainment, and win raffle prizes. Your generosity makes a difference. Join in and help continue changing lives, one purse at a time! Visit purse-impressions.com for more information.

OCTOBER 7TH

32nd Annual Sedona Arts Festival

995 UPPER RED ROCK LOOP

ROAD | 9:00 AM

Discover the 32nd Annual Sedona Arts Festival on October 7-8, 2023, showcasing 100+ juried artists from across the country. Experience it at Sedona Red Rock High School, complete with live music, raffle prizes, food, and a wine garden set against Sedona’s breathtaking backdrop. Festival hours: Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Visit sedonaartsfestival.org for more information!

OCTOBER 14TH

Autumnfest Arts & Crafts Fair

41703 N. GAVILAN PEAK

PARKWAY | 10:00 AM

Celebrate Autumnfest at Anthem Community Park! Shop for unique holiday gifts at the Arts & Crafts fair, featuring fine arts, crafts, culinary delights, and more from regional vendors. Enjoy the carnival from October 12-15 with all-you-can-ride wristbands available for $25 (save $3 online). Don’t miss this weekend of family fun and shopping! Visit  onlineatanthem.com more details!

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OCTOBER 16TH

Annual Haunted House Workshop and Walk Through

42201 N. 41ST DRIVE, SUITE B100, ANTHEM, AZ 85086

6:00 PM

Join the Musical Theatre of Anthem for their Haunted House festivities. Actors aged 11-18 will help create and perform in our spine-chilling haunted house. Workshop participation is $95; register online. For all ages, the haunted house offers two paths on October 26-28, 2023, 6-9 p.m. Tickets: $8 presale, $10 at the door, $5 re-entry. Don’t miss it! Check out musicaltheatreofanthem.org for more information.

OCTOBER 20TH

ProMusica Arizona’s “Fantasy, Dreams and Fairytales”!

15649 N 7TH ST., PHOENIX AZ. | 3:30 PM

ProMusica Arizona celebrates its 21st season with an enchanting concert featuring classics like “Over the Rainbow” and “Dream a Little Dream of Me.” The Orchestra presents Mendelssohn’s “Overture to a Midsummer Night’s Dream” and Christine Temple Evans’ moving “Dreams.” The night concludes with Mary McDonald’s stirring “This is the Dream.” Visit www.pmaz.com for ticket pricing.

OCTOBER 31ST

Israel Fernández and Diego del Morao at the M.I.M.

4725 E. MAYO BLVD. PHOENIX, AZ 85050 | 7:00 PM

Discover the world of Flamenco with Israel Fernández and Diego del Morao! Audiences are invited to an exceptional evening of cante jondo and Spanish classical flamenco guitar. Israel Fernández, known for his dynamic voice and contemporary flair, breathes new life into tradition. Meanwhile, the globally acclaimed Diego del Morao captivates with his passionate rhythms. Don’t miss this enchanting performance!

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