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Raise your glass… and your fork!

When I applied for the role of Cedar Park City Lifestyle editor, it was with one core thing in mind… I was already doing a big part of this job in my free time.

No, I wasn’t writing editorial content about where I was going or who I was seeing. But yes, I was taking an insane amount of photos at every single stop, so the documentation was definitely there! I was all about—and still am all about—making my evenings, weekends, and holidays count by looking for fun things to do. That includes finding spots to grab a bite to eat or something to drink.

While attending Leander High School, my friend group had a collective understanding that I was the designated planner, whether I liked it or not. (Spoiler alert: I liked it.) This only continued when I went to UT. I was always on the lookout for great places where duos, trios, and larger groups could enjoy memorable dining experiences together. Sometimes we’d stick near campus, other times we’d head out to Georgetown Town Square or The Domain. No matter the drive time, I’d have a menu in mind.

I thrive on the process of seeking out restaurants, coffee shops, and food trucks. Each new spot becomes a setting for creating lasting memories, making the discovery a rewarding adventure in itself. After all, food and drink are more than just sustenance—they’re the heart and soul of our social interactions, the backdrop for conversation and laughter. As much as I can say that as a customer, getting to work for the magazine has shown me that the teams behind these businesses feel the exact same way.

So, buckle up, foodies! This issue is a smorgasbord of flavors, celebrating the culinary gems right in our backyard. From cheesecakes to tea parties, Asian fusion to craft beer, and meals on wheels to homegrown wine, it’s safe to say that this area is a *chef’s kiss* place to live.

Join us in recognizing the fabulous food and drink scene that makes Cedar Park and Leander deliciously unique! And be sure to tag us on social media when visiting your favorite spots around town so we can see who else is cookin’ up something special.

MEGAN MARSHALL, EDITOR

October 2024

PUBLISHER

Pam Dugdale | pam.dugdale@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Megan Marshall | megan.marshall@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION MANAGER

Greg Dugdale | greg.dugdale@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Myke Toman, Kelly Phillips

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Kimmy Williams

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

Learn

Uncover

Savor

Comprehensive Treatment thru October 2024*

Practice of Dr. Akash "Doc Ak" Pandya

C r e a t i n g B e a u t i f u l S m i l e s

U s i n g B r a c e s a n d C l e a r A l i g n e r T h e r a p y

OCTOBER 2024

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Girl Flock Party Flamingo Boat Float on Lake Travis, hosted by BigTex Boat Rentals. 2: Cedar Park earns Digital Media Friendly Texas Community Certification, an innovation and economic development milestone. 3: Nicholas, Lynette, and Ted Dimbero represent property maintenance company Renevado while hosting CP Chamber luncheon. 4: This summer, Camp Glimmer discovered the joy of outdoor recreation at Candlelight Ranch. 5: Stand-up comedian Adam Ray performs set for Can’t Even Comedy at The Fieldhouse. 6: The SmileOntourage at Dell Diamond for Patient Appreciation Night with Round Rock Express. 7: Performance during groundbreaking of Austin Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

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GIRL FLOCK

KIMMY

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

SmileOn Orthodontics celebrates 10 years of brightening smiles

In honor of proudly serving Cedar Park for a decade, Dr. Akash “Doc Ak” Pandya and the SmileOntourage are offering $1,000 off comprehensive treatment and $500 off Phase I treatment this October. To celebrate further, they’re launching a new Carpool Karaoke episode featuring publisher Pam Dugdale on October 25th. Visit SmileOn’s YouTube to sing along with Doc Ak and Pam and get a fun behind-the-scenes look. Here’s to more years of creating dazzling smiles! smileonortho.com

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Blue Lotus Aesthetics & Wellness welcomes Ronald Reagan Blvd facility

A new era of wellness has arrived in town! Dr. Ibrahim Mansour, Sarah Files, Samantha Williamson, and Laini Moman are thrilled to begin seeing patients in their state-of-the-art facility. Blue Lotus Aesthetics & Wellness provides various personalized services, helping you feel beautiful inside and out. These include weight loss programs, hormone replacement therapy, IV hydration, and skin resurfacing through phototherapy and laser treatment. Come out to the Leander Chamber’s ribbon cutting on October 17th! bluelotusmed.com

Dr. Alapati’s practice Ivory Dental opens on West Whitestone Blvd

Where cutting-edge technology and personalized care come together, Ivory Dental is setting the standard in dentistry. Dr. Lakshmi Alapati’s practice is dedicated to providing exceptional dental services with a focus on quality, precision, and patient comfort. To further enhance your visit, they offer a comfort menu featuring soothing massage chairs, cozy blankets, and noise-canceling headphones. Ivory Dental reflects Dr. Alapati’s unwavering commitment to excellence and her deep connection to the Cedar Park community. ivorydentaltx.com

Photography by Blue Lotus

Photography by Ivory Dental

Photography by SmileOn Orthodontics

Vessel Longevity + IV Bar commemorates 4-year anniversary

Cheers to lasting health! Vessel Longevity has completed another year of offering wellness, beauty, and performance services. During their anniversary celebration, guests enjoyed exclusive specials, light bites, and exciting raffles. Plus, they experienced the BioCharger, a cutting-edge approach to optimizing your well-being by harnessing the natural energies of light, voltage, frequencies and harmonics, and pulsed electromagnetic fields. Try the BioCharger along with IV therapy, laser skin rejuvenation, musculoskeletal and joint treatments, and more. vessel-tx.com

Photography by Megan Marshall

Satisfy YOUR SOUL

PARTICIPATE IN INTERACTIVE CLASSES AND EXCLUSIVE CHEESECAKE AND WINE PAIRINGS WITH GATEAU DE JIL

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MYKE TOMAN

At Gateau de Jil French-Style Cheesecakes, the experience transcends the transaction. Owner Linda Mason—aka the Cheesecake Doctor—embraces her grandmother’s philosophy that true hospitality feeds the soul. That’s why, whether delivering a single cheesecake or hosting a winery event for 100 people, Mason focuses on building connections.

“I want it to be a serene moment for them,” says Mason. “When they take that first bite, it’s nurture. That’s the part that’s good for the soul.”

Although not a trained chef, Mason has perfected the art of cheesecake through

persistent trial and error. She’s mastered the creation of cream cheese and crust from scratch while developing 161 unique flavors, including fall favorite bourbon pecan.

Mason’s hands-on cheesecake classes are another testament to her care for her craft and customers. These intimate sessions reveal how simple ingredients transform into delectable desserts. Additionally, she curates unforgettable moments through cheesecake and wine pairings, where guests explore the harmonious blend of flavors and delve into history. An ordinary dinner can become extraordinary with a customized sweet and savory menu.

Featured on Texas Country Reporter and collaborating with top chefs, Gateau de Jil has flourished. However, as a

first-generation business owner starting during the pandemic, Mason faced initial skepticism from her mother, who worried about the risks. Despite concerns, her perseverance culminated in a thriving business that her mother proudly witnessed grow for two years before her passing. Mason continues to bake in her mother’s memory.

“I once overheard her talking to her friends, telling them how proud she was of me. Someone asked if she was my number one fan and she said, ‘Yes, yes I am,’” says Mason. “My mother got to see me achieve what she feared. That remains my greatest accomplishment.”

Book your private party, public tasting room, or personal class at: gateaudejil.com

DISCOVER HOW THE RED HORN BRAND EVOLVED SINCE ITS INCEPTION

Brewing Up a Community Connection

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MYKE TOMAN

It all began with two men who shared an entrepreneurial spirit. A summer trip to Destin brought Chad Misner and Jon Lamb together, resulting in a serendipitous partnership. Today, we know them as the visionaries behind Red Horn Brewing Co.

“After that trip, we started burning the midnight oil and said, ‘Let’s keep this energy going,’” says Misner. “Eventually, we were dusting off a business plan that Jon had for a coffee shop that also served craft beer. That plan became a concept of: If we’re going to serve specialty coffee, why don’t we roast our own? If we’re going to serve craft beer, why don’t we brew our own?”

Come 2014, Misner and Lamb had quit their jobs and signed the lease for their Parmer storefront. Fast forward and Red Horn has expanded far beyond that initial concept. Their second location by The Crossover opened three years ago, and their products are now available at major retailers and local spots like The Good Lot and The Brewtique.

“There’s been a few instances where we’re walking into H-E-B and my daughter’s like, ‘Dad, look, that person’s checking out with Trail Runner or Hap Slappy.’ Those are pretty cool moments,” says Misner. “You get caught in the hamster wheel and sometimes forget to recognize your accomplishments, so we have to remind ourselves we are right now where we dreamt about being.”

Red Horn’s success is due to key team members like Director of Coffee Operations Marco Leal, and former and current Head Brewers Zack Gardner and Phil Park, respectively. Their combined efforts have transformed Misner and Lamb’s latenight brainstorming into a booming brand that supports 33 employees.

The ultimate goal behind Red Horn was always to make a family-friendly place to hang out, nestled in their backyard. Adding to their offerings, the Barrel Room at the Scottsdale location has become a popular, versatile event space. Everything from wedding showers to school booster clubs to Warhammer gaming tournaments has come through the door.

“When I see a group of high school kids studying and having a coffee in the evening, or folks from Firefly hosting a big happy hour, or families pulling up a high chair because they have an infant in a car seat… I know something’s working here for the community space,” says Misner. “We owe a lot to the city and the community for believing in us and helping us grow. We’re really proud to be anchored in Cedar Park.”

Grab your specialty coffee, craft beer, and great food at Red Horn’s Parmer Lane and Scottsdale Drive locations! See more at: redhornbrew.com

First Foundation provides education for children from ages 3 to 1st Grade. Teaching is more than just a job for our gifted and talented teachers. As we enter a new season, you will be amazed at how your child grows emotionally, physically, and academically. Give us a call and see the difference for yourself.

Schedule Your In Person Tour Today Together we are building the next generation!

firstfoundations.com | 512.249.7529

B f irstfoundationspre | 11902 Anderson Mill Rd

FAMILY, FOOD, & FORTITUDE

NAVIGATE THE RESTAURANT INDUSTRY FROM THE CHEN SIBLINGS’ CHILDHOOD TO OWNERSHIP OF SKY ASIAN FUSION

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SKY ASIAN FUSION

Brother-sister duo John and Amy Chen were immersed in the restaurant business from an early age. Their father, once a cook in the Taiwan Navy, came to the United States with a dream of sharing his culinary talents. That dream took shape in Round Rock, where he opened a restaurant that became the family’s cornerstone for two decades. John and Amy spent their after-school hours helping out, learning the intricacies of the trade.

After graduating from the University of Texas, Amy gained experience as a server and cocktail waitress in Las Vegas. It wasn’t until her brother launched his latest culinary venture—a sushi restaurant—that she returned home to support.

John went on to take a bold leap after selling two restaurants, purchasing a mattress store with the vision of transforming it into Sky Asian Fusion. But this endeavor faced abrupt challenges when the pandemic struck just weeks after their opening.

“I was actually working here 365 days. In the end, it was a rewarding experience to see how one’s potential can get you through the hard times,” says Amy. “We were able to push through and stay in business. I’m blessed that we’ve made it this far and we’re still going.”

Sky Asian Fusion’s menu reflects a blend of tradition and creativity, featuring dishes from classic Chinese-American favorites to innovative twists inspired by various cities. Each meal is crafted with fresh ingredients and in-house preparations for sauces, showcasing their commitment to quality.

“The staff has a really good customer service background. They make people feel welcome and know how to explain the food items to provide the best recommendations for first-timers,” says Amy. “Our goal is to make a great first impression, and our food and service tell it all.”

skyasianfusions.com 1825 Crystal Falls Pkwy #100, Leander

The Taste of Togetherness

Get to know four food trucks that are passionately serving up our community

LIBBY’S LUNCHBOX

Libby’s Lunchbox began with a simple passion: a love for food and people. A food truck was the perfect way to blend the two, serving as the first step toward owner Liberty Broussard’s dream of someday owning a brick-and-mortar restaurant. It offers her the chance to understand the industry and hone her Southern comfort recipes with Cajun flare.

While dreaming big about Libby’s Lunchbox becoming a household name, Liberty values small beginnings. For her, the true reward comes from inspiring others, whether through delightful meals, a bright smile, or motivational chats to start the day. She hopes to show her daughter and nieces that their aspirations are within reach, just as hers are transforming into a reality.

libbyslunchbox.com

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY PHILLIPS

LAZY G BBQ

From childhood memories at Louie Mueller Barbecue in Taylor to mastering competition recipes, Garrett Elliott’s love for barbecue has always been strong. A church event kickstarted his next chapter, leading to a partnership with Bill Wassenaar and Keith Minne. Through Lazy G BBQ, they now put twists on Central Texas classics while sourcing only top-quality ingredients.

For Garrett, Bill, and Keith there are two things that make owning a food truck worthwhile… The first is the joy of hearing customers rave about their barbecue, saying it’s the best they’ve ever had. The second is being able to teach their young employees the ropes and watch them grow into the next generation of barbecue enthusiasts right inside their trailer.

lazygbbq.com

BRITO’S

SKYES ICE

Inspired by a deep family bond, Skyes Ice started with the arrival of Sayler Arnold and David Camacho’s eldest daughter, Skye Blue. From the moment she entered their lives, the founders wanted to create something meaningful that fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose. Skyes Ice is about more than handmade Italian ice—it’s a reflection of their journey, their dreams, and the legacy they hope to leave to their children.

Sayler and David take pride in providing first jobs for high school students, and contributing to the Cedar Park and Leander area. They are also proud of their 100% dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, fat-free, and vegan-friendly product, ensuring the refreshing taste of Skyes Ice is accessible to everyone in the community.

skyesice.com

Before launching their food truck, Jose Brito and Lucrecia Federico accumulated valuable experience in Michelin-starred establishments and fine dining. But what truly captivated them was the opportunity to offer warm customer service and provide everyone who visits them with memorable culinary experiences. Although it took nearly a decade to see their dreams through in bringing Brito’s to life, they have treasured the journey.

Today, as they cook up modern street food with Venezuelan influences, Jose and Lucrecia cherish the opportunity to create personal connections with their customers. They make it a point to remember the names of their regulars and anticipate orders. Embracing the friendly Texan culture has only served to deepen their love for their work at Brito’s.

britos.square.site

Harvest with Heart

Find out about the dedication to authenticity and winemaking artistry behind Perissos Vineyard and Winery

Nestled in an 18-acre vineyard of decomposed granite gravel soil are vines that are meticulously nurtured by hand. Adhering to a “Farming First” philosophy, Perissos Vineyard and Winery ensures that every grape reaches its full potential.

When harvest time arrives, dedicated wine club members join in with five-gallon buckets and snips to gather the fruit and contribute to the product. This hands-on approach extends to all aspects of their operations, reflecting their commitment to building personal relationships.

“The best compliment we ever received came from two ladies who are Texas wine enthusiasts, trying to visit as many Texas wineries as possible,” says Managing Partner Dalton Humphreys. “During their tasting, they stated, ‘Everywhere we go, every winery talks to us about the wine, but you are the only folks who actually talk to us.’”

One standout example of Perissos’s community engagement was their eclipse event, planned over two years. Right in the path of totality, they sold tickets to 600 people from around the world. Afterward, as the weeks passed, they were flooded with calls, emails, and handwritten letters expressing gratitude for their hospitality.

“It’s not just once-in-a-lifetime events we create unforgettable experiences for. It’s everyday tastings or birthdays or rehearsal dinners,” says Humphreys. “We are building a community for people to connect. Wine just happens to be a tool we use to create those connections.”

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL

Award-Winning Wines

“As long as you stay patient and dedicated, you can work with the land and the weather to produce wine that is full of character and best represents our little pocket of heaven in Texas.”

Perissos excels in crafting world-class, 100% Texas-grown wines. With the hard work they put into farming and winemaking, the team has a distinguished history of accolades. This includes their first San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition Best of Class award in 2012 and recent Top White Wine win at the Houston International Wine Uncorked Competition.

perissosvineyards.com 7214 Park Rd 4 W, Burnet, TX

Delight in an authentic tea party alongside your family, friends, or colleagues with Austin English Tea Company

England’s Best, Made in Texas

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUSTIN ENGLISH TEA COMPANY

Steeped in the charm of Lancashire, where tearooms are as common as coffee shops in the States, Sarah Olano’s childhood was rich in tradition. With Grandma baking in her shop and Nana in her home, Olano was always surrounded by the comforting aromas of freshly baked treats.

“When we would go to Nana’s in North Wales, she’d set the table with a lace tablecloth. We’d have cake stands with salmon sandwiches, cucumber sandwiches, scones, Victoria sponge… Everything you’d find at an afternoon tea, with full teapots and beautiful china,” says Olano. “But we didn’t even call it afternoon tea—it was just what we did.”

After moving to Austin in 2011, Olano discovered an opportunity to bring those cherished flavors and experiences to her new community. Her goal: to transport folks into a tea world that isn’t like their everyday.

Thus, Austin English Tea Company was born. Located in Michelle’s Patisserie on Ranch Road 620, it features recipes crafted by Olano herself. While she favors millionaire bars and Earl Grey, the seasonal desserts and variety of teas offer something for everyone, whether enjoyed in the tearoom or your chosen venue.

It isn’t just birthday celebrations and wedding parties booking with Austin English Tea Company. From events with the Wizard Academy business school to the Neill-Cochran House Museum to the video game animators at Mighty Coconut, Olano has seen it all.

“Afternoon tea brings so much joy. People sipping from china tea cups, feeling fancy, getting dressed up in hats and gloves… They come through the door full of expectation, ready to spend quality time with the people that they’re with,” says Olano. “There are so many ingredients to happiness.”

Planning a corporate event, retirement home outing, or special occasion? Visit austinenglishtea.com to get on the calendar!

Join us for Happy Hour with half-price cocktails and 50 bottles of wine at 50% off from 4:30-6pm and live entertainment nightly, celebrate your special occasion in style with our Private and Group dining spaces, and dine on the delectable wonders of everything under the sea including our iconic Florida Stone Crab claws. Our team will ensure your culinary adventure is unforgettable. YOUR TABLE IS WAITING.

PICKS FOR YOUR PICNIC

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY SONYA PIX

Tasty and easy-to-pack treats to elevate your outdoor meals this fall

After the hot Texas summer, autumn beckons us to embrace the outdoors with its crisp air and picturesque scenery, creating an inviting and cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re relaxing in a park or exploring a scenic trail, a picnic is an ideal way to savor the season.

FIGS ON TOAST

Toasted artisan bread topped with creamy ricotta, fresh figs, and a drizzle of honey develops a delightful balance of flavors that capture the spirit of fall.

PUMPKIN CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

Warm spiced cookies with sweet chocolate chips are sure to be a hit with your family and friends, adding a festive touch to any picnic basket.

APPLE AND CHEDDAR CROISSANTS

Crisp apple slices paired with sharp cheddar cheese on a flaky croissant supplies a satisfying mix of sweet and savory, perfect for a light yet filling bite.

ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH SALAD

Toss roasted butternut squash with arugula, pecans, and a maple vinaigrette for a hearty, refreshing salad that beautifully complements the essence of autumn.

Boutique Dog Bathing & Grooming

OCTOBER 15TH

Cedar Park Chamber's 9th Annual Taste of Cedar Park

1435 Main St, Cedar Park, TX 78613 | 6:00 PM

Presented by Cedar Park Regional Medical Center, Taste of Cedar Park brings together restaurants, wineries, breweries, and food vendors in our community. Going on until 9 PM at the Recreation Center's Sculpture Garden, get your tickets to eat, drink, and support local! Sit back and relax with live music, or wander to take in the beautiful art installations. cedarparkchamber.org

OCTOBER 19TH

22nd Annual Barktoberfest at Veterans Memorial Park

2525 W New Hope Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613 | 8:00 AM

Barktoberfest is back with fun for you and your furry friends! When you swing by Veterans Memorial Park, you will see excellent local vendors like Mutts Canine Cantina Austin, Tomlinson's Feed, Thrive Pet Healthcare, and more. You can even participate in a 5K run or one-mile walk with your dog, and enter them in the canine costume contest. centraltexasspca.org