Making Meals Into Special Moments
My mom is a woman of many talents, but her true superpower? Themes. Anyone who attended my childhood birthday parties could tell you that. There was the “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” sleepover, where she made me and my friends into Twinkies. My Sweet 16 was Dumbo carnival-inspired, complete with cupcakes balanced on red-and-white striped stands. She goes beyond “hosting” and straight into “production.”
Somewhere between Twinkie-me and cupcake tents, I caught the theme bug too. I remember going to a friend’s 4th of July party with cheese and crackers made to look like bald eagles. Several years back, I also started committing my family to (if I have anything to say about it) a lifelong Halloweekend adventure, dedicating October weekends to monster-themed meals.
Here’s the thing… Food is nourishment, sure. But it’s also joy. It’s whimsy. It’s a chance to play. Even when we’re not going all-in on a theme, my mom and I are still in the kitchen, hunting down new recipes and inevitably putting our own spin on them.
That ability to find fun in food is something I see in our community every day. We have food trucks announcing limited-time specials that spark so much excitement. New spots open their doors, and people practically sprint to get a table. We have bakers who will make your desserts so stunning you almost—ALMOST—don’t want to eat them. And there are chefs and brewers who are always experimenting, inviting us to taste something familiar in a fresh way.
For three years, Cedar Park City Lifestyle has been here to capture the community’s magic. That, of course, includes regular features on food and drinks. But what’s a better way to celebrate the flavors that make up our home than with a dedicated Food & Drink Issue?
In this issue, you will discover dishes and experiences worth rearranging your week for. Which, I hope you do, because these businesses and the people who have made them into what they are today are so deserving of the extra love. You’ve just gotta get your appetite ready!
Here’s to you for reading, sharing, and keeping culinary creativity alive. And here’s to my mama for teaching me that every meal tells a story, if you’re willing to listen.
MEGAN MARSHALL, EDITOR
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Pam Dugdale | pam.dugdale@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Megan Marshall | megan.marshall@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Myke Toman
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn
We’ll have Food & Drink Specials, Games, Prizes, Raffles, Giveaways, Discounted Bays, plus a Complimentary 10-minute swing tune-up with PGA Pro!
city scene
WHERE
NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN OCTOBER
1: 7 Brew Drive-Thru Coffee welcomes location to Ronald Reagan alongside Leander Chamber and neighbors. 2: Long line for Lioness Books hosting an event at the Texas Association of School Boards. 3: Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center sponsors Lunch Connect presented by Ascension Seton. 4: Human Resources team drops off drinks and snacks with Parks & Recreation and Public Works. 5: Pure Barre member Abby celebrates joining the 1,000 class milestone club with Cedar Park team. 6: Volunteers help restore and rebuild Yesterday’s Gone property after flooding during community serve day. 7: Clare Wuellner with Blue Victory Gallery hosts monarch butterfly drawing workshop at Art Direct.
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business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Vessel Longevity + IV Bar celebrates five-year anniversary in August
When Dr. Emeka Ofobike opened Vessel Longevity, it was with the vision of promoting longer healthspans, not just lifespans. With their advanced anti-aging treatments, his team has continued to achieve this over the last five years. They are honored to be a part of countless wellness journeys. The anniversary also coincided with the opening of their second location on RR 620, offering premium services like hormone replacement, EMFACE, and stem cell therapy. vessel-tx.com
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De Gracia & Estevez Cigars hosts upcoming cigar rolling workshop
Have you visited De Gracia & Estevez Cigars at their Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery storefront yet? Now’s the time! On October 26th from 4 to 8 PM, they’re giving you the chance to unleash your inner torcedor while bringing the art of cigar making to life. At their immersive cigar rolling workshop, you’ll learn everything from how to identify quality leaves to the finishing techniques of the pros. Get your tickets today. dgecigars.com
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NFM announces multi-year partnership with Leander ISD
Teachers deserve a comfortable, functional space to unwind throughout their workday. That’s precisely why Nebraska Furniture Mart has made it their mission to provide complimentary teacher lounge makeovers to every school in the district. Certified interior designers will work directly with them to tailor furnishings. NFM Cedar Park Store Director Joshua Ortiz stated that our educators play a vital role in shaping the community, and this is their way of saying thank you. nfm.com
Photography by NFM
Photography by Myke Toman
Photography by Myke Toman
Texas Pumpkin Fest running from October 3rd through November 1st
Halloween season is here, and the best spot to spend it in town (on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays) is at Texas Pumpkin Fest. In partnership with the VFW Post 10427, a nonprofit veterans service organization, this festival has fun attractions for the whole family. Take advantage of photo ops throughout the pumpkin patch, or kick back in the shade while enjoying local food, drinks, and live music. Check social media for weather updates. texaspumpkinfest.com
Register to volunteer at the 32nd annual Austin Film Festival
From October 23rd through 30th, Austin Film Festival is putting on its largest event thus far to further the art and craft of storytelling. And to do that, they are looking for dedicated volunteers! As a volunteer, you will have the opportunity to get behind-the-scenes access to one of the most prestigious writers’ festivals in the world, connect with fellow creatives, earn festival badges through volunteer hours, and more. Apply today through their website. austinfilmfestival.com
Sippin with September now creating luxury wine experiences
Founded by Navy veteran and sommelier September Burton, Sippin with September brings years of hospitality and wine expertise to Central Texas. Based in Georgetown, its concept is centered around a passion for making wine more approachable, supporting local businesses, and fostering community connections. Sippin with September is ready to provide restaurant wine program development, corporate team-building tastings, and private wine education experiences. Slow down and savor life through the art of wine. sippinwithseptember.com
Photography by Sippin with September
Photography by Austin Film Festival
Photography by Megan Marshall
First Foundations Primary
From its preschool, bridge, kindergarten, and elementary school programs, FFP continues to produce tomorrow’s leaders! The success of your students is the reason we’re here.
Teeing Up Fun for All
SNACK, SIP, AND SWING YEAR-ROUND WITH X-GOLF CEDAR PARK
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MYKE TOMAN
Robert “Bob” Beck started swinging a golf club almost as far back as he can remember, joining his dad and other relatives on the course. Golf quickly evolved from a pastime into part of who he is.
When he met his wife, Kim, one of their very first dates was a trip to the driving range, even though she had never picked up a club. She gave it her best shot, and the rest is history.
Later, while living in Virginia, they became members at X-Golf Richmond, where they saw the sport transformed. Between the great music, friendly staff, and TVs to watch the game while playing, it was a full-on social experience.
“Being able to golf year-round, in the evenings, in an air-conditioned space, rain or shine, was a game-changer. It allowed us to work on every part of our game in a relaxed, fun environment,” says Bob. “And with a cocktail just a few steps away, it was the perfect combination of practice and play.”
With 30 years in food distribution under his belt, Bob was ready to do something different. It was X-Golf that gave him a front-row seat to what state-of-the-art simulators could bring to families, friends, and colleagues.
The Becks began exploring potential franchise locations, and had fallen in love with Austin on visits to see family. They even got a unique chance to get to know the city during the infamous ice storm that left them stuck in a hotel for a week. With Austin still wide open for X-Golf opportunities, they took it as a sign to make the big move.
X-Golf Cedar Park came to life with a mission to create a welcoming space for all ages and skill levels. With the help of the latest training tools and real-time feedback, everyone can
fine-tune their swing. Plus, X-Golf’s open and private simulator bays adapt to every occasion, from birthday parties to corporate outings.
“Our simulators make the game accessible and enjoyable, and paired with a great selection of food and drinks, the experience becomes more than just golf. It’s about spending quality time with the people you’re with,” says Bob. “Our hope is that every guest leaves saying, ‘I can’t wait to come back.’”
The Becks are especially excited to incorporate instruction into events with their PGA professional, Patrick Fillian, who brings a wealth of knowledge and true passion for teaching the game. They’re also excited about X-Leagues, offering players a competitive environment to test their skills, build camaraderie, and take part in friendly rivalries.
Leading up to opening, Bob loved getting calls from people eager to book their first tee time. But more than anything, the most rewarding part has been building the business alongside his family.
“Kim brought her vision and creativity to the interior design. Our youngest son, Hunter, has been hands-on throughout the process and will play a key role in the day-to-day operations. And even though our oldest, Slater, lives in Charlotte, he’s been our go-to IT sounding board from afar,” says Bob. “It’s been a true family effort, and seeing it all come together has meant a lot.”
Match with the Perfect Pour
Stay curious and sip smarter with Whiskey Fox’s AI-driven whiskey tasting events
Andrew Ozenne and his wife were strolling along Scotland’s Royal Mile when the idea of Whiskey Fox first sparked. He realized just how vast—and even overwhelming—the world of whiskey truly is. Years later, while working toward an AI certification, he saw an opportunity to help others navigate that world, making it easier to discover whiskeys that perfectly match their unique tastes.
Today, Whiskey Fox blends tradition and technology into something unforgettable. Whether you’re new to whiskey or a longtime enthusiast, their events are tailored to the audience, featuring curated flights of three or four pours complemented by delicious food. From movie pairings at Alamo Drafthouse to intimate dinners at hidden gems around town, they love keeping things fresh and fun.
“Our community is made up of people who are open to trying new things and sharing their experiences,” says Andrew. “One of the best parts of our events is seeing guests connect—sometimes over shared favorites, sometimes in friendly
debates about what makes a great whiskey. These conversations capture the spirit of what we’re building: a place to share, learn, and enjoy together.”
No matter your experience level, it’s all about discovering surprises along the way and meeting interesting people. For Andrew, it’s been incredibly rewarding to watch this simple idea grow into a thriving community and talented team in Austin and Houston.
Looking ahead, Whiskey Fox is developing even more ways to curate your journey through their membership platform. This fall, they’re seeking beta-testers to shape the next phase, offering early access, public discounts, member-only gatherings, and exclusive merch up for grabs.
“Every time I see a guest light up after discovering a new favorite whiskey, it reminds me why we do this,” says Andrew. “It’s about creating moments of delight and connection—moments we hope to scale across Texas and beyond as we continue to innovate and expand.”
Learn more about Whiskey Fox and sign up for beta-testing at: singlemlt.com
Our journey has been about building something that’s both personal and approachable. “
Books, Bites, Bliss
TREAT YOURSELF WITH NEXT CHAPTER BOOKS & BOOKMOBILE
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NEXT CHAPTER BOOKS & BOOKMOBILE
Want to give your gently used books their next chapter? Next Chapter Books & Bookmobile rescues stories in excellent condition to be passed on to a new generation of readers. You’ll find them bringing a mobile reading sanctuary to local fairs and markets across town.
Join The Bookish & Foodie Fun
Tales & Cocktails | Hosted at Night Owl Leander, you can pair book shopping with handcrafted cocktails. This is your chance to discover great literary-themed gifts before checking out what the food trucks in the courtyard have to offer. | 203 N Brushy St, Leander | @nightowl_leander
Boozy Book Fair | This adults-only book event is held throughout the afternoon and evening at Leanderthal Distilling, a craft distillery where you’ll find uniquely Texan products. Gather your friends to find your next favorite bestsellers and nonfiction. | 11894 Hero Way W, Leander | leanderthaltx.com
Books + Bites | Connect with fellow readers and experience the perfect Saturday at The Sweet Cupfé Bakery. You’ll enjoy browsing a special selection of books in the coziest setting, while eating gourmet sweet treats made with the freshest ingredients. | 305 US-183, Leander | thesweetcupfe.com
FOUNDER & BOOKSELLER
Filer Ciranna
A certified English teacher with 18 years in public education, Dawn has long championed literacy. Upon moving to Leander, she and her family became regulars at the local library, and her dream of bringing books to more readers continued to grow. That dream blossomed in 2022 with Next Chapter Books & Bookmobile, where curiosity and connection come alive. nextchapterbookmobile.com
Dawn
Cooking withConfidence
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KITCHEN HOUSE
With a passion for kids’ nutrition, Leah Smith began her career as a registered dietician, educating parents of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in clinical and community settings. Seeing how many families lacked the basics, she looked for ways to show nutrition in action, not just talk about it.
That’s when she created the first cooking classes at a group of WIC supplemental food programs, teaching affordable, nutrient-rich recipes. She then launched Kids Kitchen in 2011 to inspire families to encourage and excite their children about food.
SPARK THE JOY OF FOOD WITH KITCHEN HOUSE’S HANDS-ON CLASSES, CAMPS, AND WORKSHOPS
“COOKING IS FUN. IT SHOULDN’T BE TREATED AS A CHORE BECAUSE IT CAN BE VERY SIMPLE YET STILL GOOD TASTING AND GOOD FOR YOU!”
“I learned that if kids, or even adults, get their hands involved and become part of the process, it’s more interesting and engaging. And therefore, they want to taste their creations,” says Smith.
As her own children grew, so did her interest in nutrition at every stage of life. In 2016, she expanded her mission with Kitchen House, a fun and educational space for kids and adults to experience food as nourishment and joy.
During kids’ cooking parties, Smith often hears the same words—“This is the best day ever!” For her, the magic is in seeing attendees embrace new ingredients and new ways to prepare them.
“Many years ago, I was teaching a class to kids ages five to eight. We were making something simple—strawberry spinach smoothies. Somehow, one kid wanted to try the spinach leaf before adding it to the blender, and then they all wanted to do it,” says Smith. “They were throwing up their hands, dancing around, and yelling for more spinach! I had to stop them so we could still have some to put in their smoothie. How many kids ask and fight over eating raw spinach leaves?”
An especially rewarding moment came this summer with an eight-year Kitchen House participant. She just aged out of the summer camps, but is already asking when she can return as an instructor.
Whether you’re making pizza dough from scratch or layering parfaits with homemade skillet granola, Kitchen House’s focus is on food that tastes great and looks beautiful. Kids leave eager to help at home—cutting vegetables, baking cornbread, or even grilling.
“Keep trying the same foods, prepared and cooked in different ways,” says Smith. “Don’t just assume they don’t like broccoli, or will never like it. Our taste buds are constantly changing!”
Want to learn recipes that develop lifelong healthy habits? Get started at: kitchenhouseaustin.com
www.liveyounger.com/janekieffer janet@youthingnotaging.com
Boutique Dog Bathing & Grooming Salon
Enjoy a celebration of Georgian European cuisine at Sami Sumeli with your loved ones
From Our Family to Yours
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SAMI SUMELI
This past spring, after five months of building renovations and endless tastings, Sami Sumeli opened its doors. The family-owned restaurant now offers a spread of fresh dishes, house-made sauces, and carefully selected Georgian wines that aim to make guests feel both at home and transported.
“I’ve always loved introducing people to something new, whether it’s culture, flavors, or experiences,” says owner and general manager Olya Davydova. “After traveling to Georgia, my husband, Andrey, and I fell in love with the warmth, the feasts, the toasts, and the feeling that you’re a guest, not just a customer. We wanted to bring that spirit to Texas, but in our own style, blending Georgian traditions with a European touch, so every day feels cozy, delicious, and just a little bit celebratory.”
For the Davydovas and their team, the grand opening was an unforgettable day full of joy. Though nervous at first, once guests began arriving, they knew their hard work had paid off.
Andrey leads the kitchen, cooking the way he would for his family. He takes pride in creating Georgian classics like khinkali, khachpuri, adjaruli, and pkhali, ensuring every plate has a photo-ready presentation. Signature cocktails are also crafted to complement each bite.
Their ultimate goal? That everyone leaves full, happy, and smiling.
“We want Sami Sumeli to become a place people are drawn to—for the flavors, the atmosphere, and the feeling that you’re always welcome here,” says Olya. “We already have ideas for new dishes, live music nights, and wine-pairing dinners featuring Georgian wines. But most of all, I’m excited to see more familiar faces coming back, bringing friends, and feeling like this is their second home.”
Reserve your special occasion at samisumeli.com and dine in at 401 E Whitestone Blvd Ste A101, Cedar Park today.
SIP Local , STAY SOCIAL
You may know Red Horn as a Cedar Park staple, but this summer, they expanded into the most beautiful town square in Texas—Georgetown. It’s the perfect place to grab coffee or beer to go during First Friday Music on the Square and 2nd Saturday Market Days.
Cedar Park local Greg Kaye now leads the Georgetown location as general manager. He’s bringing the same energy he gave at Red Horn Scottsdale into a space he’s making his own.
“Seeing more foot traffic has been the most fulfilling thing. Our products are reputable and very delicious, so being in a spot where we can get first-timers is so fun,” says Kaye.
He has enjoyed connecting with other GMs on the Square and building a team that embodies Red Horn’s good vibes. Neighborliness is a top priority. Whether you’re settling into a high-top table or gathering around the picnic benches, you’re invited in.
“We’re excited to be an all-day community space,” says Kaye. “You can host networking events, after-work happy hours, after-school study seshes… Coffee in the morning, beer at night, breakfast, lunch, and dinner.”
Visit Red Horn at redhornbrew.com and 109 W 7th St #105, Georgetown .
WHAT YOU NEED TO TRY
• Whole Bean Coffee: unique single-origin and house-blend coffees
• Hap Slappy IPA: West Coast-inspired IPA with a crisp malt backbone
• Classic Cold Brew: made with house-roasted beans from Costa Rica
• Breakfast Sandwiches: perfect egg and cheese with optional bacon or sausage
• Russell’s Bakery Pastries: fresh-baked goods from another local gem
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RED HORN
Unwind at Red Horn’s new location on Georgetown Square
Family-owned with an eclectic vibe, Five Four Restaurant & Drafthouse strikes an excellent balance of high-end finishes in a casual setting. Outside, a covered patio leads to pickleball courts and ever-popular cornhole, while inside, multi-sport simulators keep the fun going.
As their second eater-tainment destination, Five Four is thrilled to bring this experience to the Greater Austin market.
Quality runs deep in their nearly-100% scratch kitchen. Think locally crafted syrups and cordials from Liber & Co., Danish baby back ribs smoked in-house daily, and hand-sliced CAB ribeye for a prime rib French dip. Pair that with one of 54 draft beers poured at 29 degrees, and you’ve got yourself the perfect night—or afternoon—out.
“At Five Four, food and drink come first,” says Chief Marketing Officer Kelly Reid. “Our new eater-tainment concept builds on that foundation, offering an elevated space where you can savor delicious food and drink while soaking in the energy of the room, whether you’re playing pickleball and yard games or simply enjoying the lively buzz of friends and neighbors around you.”
Fan favorite mains include Rattlesnake Pasta, Thai Noodle Filet Salad, Chicken Madeira, and Protein Power Grain Bowls. And to round out your visit, signature cocktails like the Empressive G+T,
Paloma, El Perfecto Margarita, and New York Sour shine with fresh-squeezed juices.
“You can’t go wrong with any menu items ordered! We’ve kept our menu large and varied, but streamlined it to highlight only the recipes we truly love, so every choice is a great one,” says Reid.
Five Four’s good vibes are turned up even higher on Wednesday evenings with live music from a can’t-be-missed one-person band.
“We have been family-owned for our 35 years in business,” says Reid. “We operate with consistency, delivering the same exceptional experience every time, while keeping the heart, quality, and scratch-made flavors of a true family restaurant.”
See the menu at 54thstreetrestaurants.com , then go to Happy Hour at 1320 E New Hope Dr, Cedar Park
NOMINATE SOMEONE IN
When disaster strikes, we show up for each other. Flooding across Texas has uprooted lives but hope is never far when neighbors come together ity ifestyle is helping identify and support those most affected.
Nominate a family, individual, or local leader in need of care ou can help us reach those who need it most
Pam turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Cedar Park
City Lifestyle
Published by Pam
Loved by Cedar Park
events
OCTOBER 10TH & 11TH
Texas Stars Home Opening Weekend vs Grand Rapids Griffins
2100 Ave of the Stars, Cedar Park, TX 78613
Hockey fans, it’s your time to shine! The Texas Stars return to the ice this season with their first home games at the H-E-B Center. As one of the American Hockey League’s most competitive franchises, you’re in for an exciting atmosphere. Get ready to see the team (and of course, Ringo the Ringtail) back in action. hebcenter.com
OCTOBER 11TH
Leander Public Arts & Culture Commission presents Artoberfest
2040 Artesian Springs Xing, Leander, TX 78641 | 3:00 PM
What is Art Fest 2025? A lively celebration of creativity and community spirit, complete with music and food! Join the City of Leander at Lakewood Park for a vibrant display of local art along the scenic sculpture trail. In the spirit of the season, families are invited to wear their most whimsical fall festival costumes and accessories. leandertx.gov
OCTOBER 12TH
Texas Music City Fall Festival at Lakeline Park
1510 Alexis Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613 | 2:00 PM
Celebrate the rich musical culture of Central Texas at the Texas Music City Fall Festival, presented by Band of the Hills and Cedar Park Parks & Recreation! Until 7 PM, enjoy a day filled with a family-friendly atmosphere. There will be performances from various ensembles (including Band of the Hills), food truck eats and refreshments, and local nonprofit booths. bandofthehills.org
OCTOBER 18TH
City of Cedar Park hosts NightMarket.Fun cultural festival
1510 Alexis Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613 | 2:00 PM
With over 100 curated vendors, live cultural performances, and the mystical Fortune Alley, you don’t want to miss this year’s NightMarket.Fun. In partnership with the Lunar Foundation and the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce, Cedar Park brings you “Transformation and Growth: Honor the Year of the Snake.” Get tickets for food, art, music, and magic at Lakeline Park! nightmarket.fun
OCTOBER 19TH
Central Texas Philharmonic performs The Music of John Williams
2211 N Austin Ave, Georgetown, TX 78626 | 4:00 PM
You are invited to experience the iconic music of John Williams, the legendary composer behind Star Wars, Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Indiana Jones. The Central Texas Philharmonic will be bringing you on a journey of his most beloved film scores. Joining the orchestra is internationally acclaimed saxophone soloist Stephen Page, who brings a dazzling energy to the stage. centraltexasphilharmonic.org
OCTOBER 25TH
Tricks & Treats Spooktacular at Leander Activity Center
11880 Hero Way W, Suite 600, Leander, TX 78641 | 5:00 PM
Get ready to celebrate Halloween early with the Leander Parks & Recreation Department. They will be hosting an event full of spooky fun, complete with a haunted maze, photo booth, and costume contest. Your little ones can also enjoy taking part in trick or treating, where there will be plenty of sweet treats. And it’s free for the community! leandertx.gov
