The Foodie Edition
“Nourishment is not just ‘nutrition.’ Nourishment is the nutrients in the food, the taste, the aroma, the ambiance of the room, the conversation at the table, the love and inspiration in the cooking and the joy of the entire eating experience.”
I love the way Marc Jacob ties in the fullness of what it means to really enjoy the role food plays— or can play—in our lives!
As a foodie, I certainly appreciate fresh, delicious, flavorful food but it’s always been about so much more than that. Ask me about some of my favorite memories and I can probably tell you what we were eating. The smell of fresh apple pie and I’m immediately in my beautiful mother’s kitchen. The “oh snap, I could do that!” moments while watching a cooking show. Food is a powerful, influential force and we are here to celebrate that in this month’s edition.
Curated with you in mind, there are some seriously mouth watering pages ahead. From local institutions who have stood the test of time to drink recipes that will level up your next house party, we’ve got you covered. It’s common knowledge that fall is notably gorgeous in Maryland so we’ve also made sure to give you plenty of ideas on how to make the most of it.
Frederick County is overflowing with passionate, brave entrepreneurs and teams who take on the daily challenges that come along with the food and drink industry to bring us meaningful experiences and nourishment in all the best ways. We know it is not easy and we want to say thank you. We see you and we appreciate you! You are a huge part of why Frederick is beloved, cherished and visited by so many.
Also, charcuterie. Pictured above with my niece was the night we turned the cabin’s countertop into a giant serving plate where we laughed and cried sharing stories of my late uncle while eating 14 different cheeses my sister-in-law made. Food. Memories. Togetherness. Nourishment. What a gift.
Here’s to savoring every bite and sip this fall,
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Amber Smith | Amber.Smith@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Sierra Moore | Sierra.Moore@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sierra Moore, Megan Connolly Dillon, Cate Marian, Amy Bailey, Haley Williams
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Amy Bailey, Chris Martin of Convoy Creative, Grace Gladhill Photography, Cassandra Castaneda
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
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1-7: Over 80 youth from Boys & Girls Clubs of Frederick County gathered at Nymeo Field for the 3rd Annual Badges for Baseball Camp, hosted by the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation. This full-day event combined skill-building baseball activities with mentorship from local law enforcement, creating a fun, safe space for connection, teamwork and growth. As part of the Club’s eight-week summer camp, the program offered youth valuable leadership experiences they might not otherwise access. The partnership reflects both organizations’ missions to empower young people through community engagement, character development and positive relationships. RipkenFoundation.org | BGCfrederick.org
Pantastic Catering Rolls Up with Flavor & Made-to-Order Meals
Pantastic Catering rolls gourmet right into your meeting space—literally. Their custom cooking cart serves fresh, made-to-order breakfasts and lunches featuring signature savory and sweet crepes, omelets, grilled sandwiches, pasta bowls and more. Each menu is uniquely curated, paired with homemade accompaniments and served on real plates with glassware. Perfect for boardrooms, team gatherings or client impressing, Pantastic delivers elevated dining—no boring meals here, just hot, flavorful food from pan to plate. PantasticCatering.com
WELL SEASONED
Frederick has always been a city for food lovers, but in a landscape of ever-changing culinary trends, certain restaurants have proven their staying power. These are some of the establishments that have not only survived but thrived, becoming a cherished part of the community’s fabric and serving generations of customers for 10, 20, 30, even 50 years and beyond. Their longevity is a testament to their unwavering dedication and consistent quality.
These are the trusted spots you can confidently recommend to a friend, knowing they’ll receive a delicious, homemade meal every time. From hearty soups, salads and sandwiches to Mexican classics, perfectly grilled steaks, vibrant stir-fries and fresh seafood, these restaurants have perfected their craft. Join us as we celebrate a few of the beloved eateries that represent Frederick’s timeless food scene—dishes that are, in every sense, well seasoned.
ARTICLE BY MEGAN CONNOLLY DILLON PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS MARTIN OF CONVOY CREATIVES
RED HORSE RESTAURANT
SINCE 1968
Amidst constantly changing trends, there’s a reassuring comfort in the timeless presence of a true Frederick institution. For more than 50 years, The Red Horse Steakhouse has stood as a beacon of culinary excellence and tradition, a beloved fixture on the Golden Mile. This establishment has become a go-to for generations, celebrated for its unique blend of affordable quality and timeless culinary standards.
Opened in 1968, The Red Horse is more than just a restaurant; it’s a living part of Frederick’s history. Its iconic red horse statue, a welcoming landmark for generations, signals a place where quality and tradition are paramount. The restaurant’s longevity is a testament to its unwavering commitment to its patrons and its craft.
The menu is a celebration of classic American fare, featuring the finest grilled steaks, hand-cut and trimmed daily, alongside traditional seafood dishes. The comfortable, casually elegant atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for any occasion, from a family dinner to a special celebration. The daily specials add a unique touch, often featuring fresh produce from The Red Horse Kitchen Garden—a testament to their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Beyond the main dining area, The Red Horse provides private facilities for business dinners, receptions and banquets, offering a versatile space for any event. For over half a century, The Red Horse Steakhouse has been a cherished dining tradition, a place where memories are made and culinary excellence is a fundamental part of their success. RedHorseRestaurant.com
Red Horse Restaurant
Opened in 1968 (57 years)
2025
BUSHWALLER’S SINCE 1981
A true Frederick tradition, Bushwaller’s is more than just a pub—it’s a community staple that has stood the test of time. While it’s famously the place to be on St. Patrick’s Day, this Irish/American gastro pub is a destination for much more than just a holiday pint. It’s a spot where you can grab a cold drink and truly great food while shopping downtown or simply settle in to watch a soccer or rugby match.
Bushwaller’s is instantly recognizable by its classic facade, a look that promises a perfect pint of Guinness. What some might not know is that behind that facade is some of the very best food you can find in Frederick. The kitchen, expertly led by Chef Adonay, serves up traditional Irish comfort food at affordable prices. You’ll find a menu full of hearty classics like the best Fish ‘n’ Chips in town, savory Shepherd’s Pie, classic Bangers ‘n’ Mash and rich Guinness Beef Stew, along with their phenomenal burgers.
The pub’s commitment to quality is also evident in its drink selection. Their draft system, originally installed by Guinness, houses 18 quality beers, ensuring that every nitro pint is poured to perfection.
Bushwaller’s is also a weekend destination, serving brunch every Saturday and Sunday. And for those looking to enjoy a night out with great food and drink, they offer live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Their dedication to tradition and quality has allowed Bushwaller’s to remain a beloved part of the community. Bushwallers.com
Bushwaller’s Opened in 1981 (44 years)
THE ORCHARD RESTAURANT
SINCE 1988
For over three decades, The Orchard has been a pillar of Downtown Frederick’s dining scene, built on a simple yet profound philosophy: food should be fresh, wholesome and delicious. This is a place where culinary integrity is paramount, and every dish tells a story of quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation.
The Orchard’s menu is a testament to its commitment to fresh, local and whole foods. It’s a haven for diners with diverse dietary needs, offering an impressive range of vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and dairyfree options without compromising on flavor. The secret to their renowned cuisine lies in their dedication to crafting everything in-house. From the homemade whole wheat bread that has become a legend in its own right, to the fresh salads with their unique, made-from-scratch dressings, every component is created with care.
Diners flock to The Orchard for their signature dishes: a variety of vibrant stirfries, each bursting with flavor; crisp, fresh salads dressed with their distinctive homemade vinaigrettes; and a selection of chef-created desserts that provide the perfect ending to a meal.
Under the guidance of new owners, Wais and his wife Belle, The Orchard’s menu continues to evolve, with thoughtful additions that nod to Wais’ Afghan roots. These bold new flavors blend seamlessly with the familiar atmosphere and beloved menu, creating an exciting new chapter for this Frederick institution. The attention to detail extends beyond the plate; each table is adorned with fresh flowers cut from Belle’s garden and original artwork by her mother, adding a personal and beautiful touch to the dining experience.
At the helm of this culinary journey is Chef Chris Loy, a veteran who has been with the restaurant since 1996. He is the guardian of The Orchard’s cherished food traditions, ensuring that the classics that have made it a Frederick institution remain exceptional. At the same time, he keeps the menu dynamic and exciting with weekly specials that highlight the best of the season’s bounty, ensuring that there is always something new and delicious to discover. The Orchard is a true celebration of food, a place where quality ingredients and passionate cooking create an unforgettable dining experience. TheOrchardRestaurant.com
a.k.a. FRISCOS
SINCE 1997
In 1997, a.k.a. Friscos took a bold risk and opened its first Frederick location, a move that became a testament to doing things their own way. While the original spot in Washington D.C. opened in 1990 and is celebrating 35 years of business this year, it was in Frederick that the restaurant was able to truly embrace a philosophy of being unafraid to make bold decisions—an approach that has defined them ever since.
While their menu is described as “daring” and inspired by San Francisco, it has evolved to include dishes Frederick couldn’t live without. The menu has grown to over 60 items, specializing in fresh, homemade products served in large portions. You’ll find an array of sandwiches, big fresh salads, bowls, jumbo baked wings and incredible homemade sides. They roast their own meats, bake their own ham and chicken and grill steaks and chicken daily. You won’t find french fries or ketchup on this extensive menu; instead, you must try their famous Exploded Potatoes ®.
The atmosphere is just as unique as the food—casual, quirky and kid-friendly with music that’s “one click from being too loud.” The walls are adorned with original artwork and photography from owner Angie’s last trip to San Francisco and you can choose between a rock ‘n’ roll or country side when dining on the outdoor patios.
Beyond the food, a.k.a. Friscos offers a diverse selection of domestic and local craft beers (which you can mix and match into six-packs), over 300 wines and a large selection of craft sodas (an idea Angie credits to one of her employees). For larger gatherings, they handle catering the old-fashioned way, walking you through your order to ensure a flawless event. As they put it, they’re “still not afraid to walk the line or take a chance,” and that’s exactly what makes a.k.a. Friscos a one-of-a-kind Frederick establishment. AkaFriscos.com
a.k.a. Friscos Opened in 1997 (28 years)
CAFE BUENO SINCE
Nestled on the east side of downtown, this vibrant spot is Frederick’s go-to for authentic Mexican comfort food. With homestyle cooking and a laid back, colorful vibe, Cafe Bueno brings the genuine flavors of Mexico to your plate. Run by a dedicated husband and wife team, their goal is to create a space where everyone feels at home, using time-honored recipes that stay true to their Mexican roots.
The menu is a celebration of all the classics, from perfectly crafted tacos to hearty burritos and other traditional favorites. What truly sets this place apart is its unwavering commitment to freshness and authenticity. Guests especially enjoy the medley of house-made hot sauces, each one a unique recipe combining fresh jalapeños, smokey chipotle peppers or flaming hot habaneros. These aren’t just condiments; they are the pride of their kitchen and a testament to the restaurant’s dedication, made with genuine Mexican ingredients that transport your taste buds south of the border.
Quality is key, with all meats hand-cut and marinated to perfection, ensuring a rich and satisfying depth of flavor in every bite. Beyond the regular menu, the daily specials offer an exciting glimpse into the breadth of Mexican cuisine, showcasing favorites like tamales, sopes, huaraches, carne asada and chile rellenos. These specials are a rotating showcase of classic dishes, each prepared with the care and tradition that makes them feel so special.
More than just a restaurant, this spot is a true community hub. It’s a place where you can enjoy a meal that feels like home while supporting a business that actively gives back through local school fundraisers. It’s a place where every bite is a taste of tradition and every visit feels like a warm welcome. CafeBuenoFrederick.com
Cafe Bueno Opened in 2012 (13 years)
Falling for Frederick
Check Out the Best Farms, Flavors and Foliage this Fall
FARMS AND ORCHARDS
Summers Farm
With more than 45 seasonal attractions— ranging from pumpkin patches and pig races to giant slides and cozy campfires—Summers Farm in Middletown, MD is a must-visit fall destination. Campfire rentals are available, offering the perfect setting for friends and families to gather and make memories under the autumn sky. This year’s corn maze celebrates the Washington Capitals and Alex Ovechkin’s historic 895-goal achievement. Guests can also enjoy new photo-worthy additions, including one of the farm’s original trucks, driven by four generations and a whimsical bubble barn designed for younger visitors. Live music will fill the farm on Friday and Saturday evenings, while the concessions stand serves up beloved seasonal treats alongside new offerings like dirty sodas and locally crafted beer and wine.
Catoctin Mountain Orchard
Perched on the eastern slope of the Appalachians in Thurmont, this family-run orchard (active since 1948) spans over 100 acres of richly cultivated land. Guests can
hop on a hayride to the orchards, where you can pick your own apples with over 20 varieties. Explore the cozy market, offering an irresistible array of fresh-baked pies, apple cider donuts, wholesome produce, preserves and local crafts—perfect for grabbing a seasonal treat or souvenir. The charming pumpkin pyramid is a unique staple vibrant with fall foliage making it one of the best photo spots in the region.
Magnolia Meadows
Home to Maryland’s largest corn maze and over 20 exciting activities for all ages, Magnolia Meadows has robust offerings that have locals coming back each season. Wander through fields to pick your own sunflowers, wildflowers and pumpkins in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Savor hot and cold seasonal treats, then browse the Farm Market for local products to take a piece of autumn home with you. Mark your calendar for Moonlit Maze Nights on Saturday, October 11th and Saturday, October 25th from 6–10 PM and experience the corn maze in a whole new way—under the glow of the moon and twinkling stars.
Cider sips & cozy trips. Pumpkin spice & everything nice.
LEAF-PEEPING & SCENIC STROLLS
Experience Frederick’s most breathtaking scenery with a drive along the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Byway on Route 15, where sweeping mountain vistas unfold before you. Hike to Chimney Rock in Catoctin Mountain Park or take in the cascading beauty of Cunningham Falls State Park. Accessible stone overlooks offer panoramic views of the valleys at Gambrill State Park and if you’re looking for a blend of history and autumn color, check out Monocacy National Battlefield. For a day trip and bucket-list fall drive, head about an hour south on US-340 toward Front Royal, Virginia, to reach Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park— where 105 miles of ridge-top roadway offers endless overlooks and a front-row seat to the season’s most vivid color.
AUTUMN ON THE MENU
Frederick’s culinary scene is brimming with seasonal flavor and creative sips. Downtown favorites like McClintock’s Back Bar and Tenth Ward Distilling Company are serving up inventive cocktails infused with autumn spices, orchard fruits and locally crafted spirits—perfect for savoring on a crisp evening stroll. At White Rabbit Gastropub, an ever-changing craft drink list pairs seamlessly with hearty, comfort-inspired dishes.
Venture just beyond downtown to Catoctin Breeze Vineyard, where a stunning backdrop of the Catoctin Mountains elevates every pour, or to Elk Run Vineyards & Winery, where rolling countryside charm meets award-winning wines. And for those up for a short scenic drive, my personal favorite—Dirt Farm Brewing in Virginia—50 minutes from Frederick, encompassing sweeping Blue Ridge Mountain views and an expansive patio designed for soaking it all in.
PROST TO FALL
Oktoberfest celebrations bring the heart of German tradition to life, filling the season with music, food and community spirit. Luckily, Frederick County not only hosts its own festivities but also sits within easy reach of several can’t-miss celebrations. Frederick’s Oktoberfest returns to the Fairgrounds (September 26-27), kicking off with an adult-focused Friday night and continuing Saturday with family-friendly fun. For those open to a little drive, kick
things off with Wisp Oktoberfest in McHenry at Deep Creek Lake (October 4), a fall-themed celebration framed by stunning foliage, complete with Oompah bands, Bavarian fare, seasonal beers, artisans and kids’ activities. Next, head to Gaithersburg for Kentlands Oktoberfest (October 12), where the community transforms into a Bavarian-style street fair with live entertainment, dancing, artisan vendors and seasonal beverages like beer, mead and cider. Back in Frederick County, wrap up the season with the Oktoberfest at Schifferstadt (October 18–19), offering a historic twist with traditional food and drink, live music, artisan crafts and tours of the 18th-century stone house.
HAUNTS & HALLOWEEN FUN
October is also the perfect time to embrace the spooky side of the season. Downtown Frederick’s Candlelight Ghost Tours blend eerie local legends with historic charm, guiding you through lantern-lit streets and centuries-old buildings. For a bigger thrill, Markoff’s Haunted Forest in Dickerson delivers one of the most immersive scare experiences around with winding forest trails, eerie sets and costumed characters lurking at every turn. Look forward to a lively village atmosphere with DJs, fire pits and seasonal snacks to keep the energy high. For a newer fright, Leech Woods in Damascus offers a haunting 30-minute trail through dark, wooded paths followed by post-haunt fun like bonfires, axe throwing, carnival games and music. History buffs can get their chills in a different way at the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, which offers after-hours programs exploring the ghostly tales and battlefield hauntings of the area.
For family-friendly Halloween events, head to Brunswick on Saturday, October 25, 2025 for Trunk-or-Treat from 6 to 8 PM, featuring decorated car trunks, sweet treats and a community haunted house. The festivities continue the next morning in Downtown Frederick for Trick-or-Treat on Sunday, October 26, from 10 AM to noon, when businesses along Carroll Creek and Everedy Square hand out candy, offer face painting and host pumpkin crafts—making for a free, festive and pet-friendly celebration in the heart of the city.
SIERRA MOORE
Crisp air, fiery leaves and golden sunsets signal a season Frederick waits for all year. From football weekends and bustling festivals to lantern-lit ghost tours and hikes along trails brushed in red and gold, fall here is just... magic. It’s a time to gather close, sip something warm and enjoy the cozy rhythm of the season. I hope these ideas provide fresh inspiration for you and your family as you celebrate this beautiful season!
The Last Course… First
Strawberry Croissant
Step inside Juno Bakery and let the aroma of fresh-baked, buttery pastry guide you to one of their most beloved creations—the Strawberry Croissant. Each golden, flaky layer gives way with a delicate crunch at first bite, revealing a puffy cloud of velvety cream. The crowning jewel—slices of plump, ruby-red strawberries—add pure, sun-ripened sweetness in every bite. Paired with a cappuccino or enjoyed all on its own, this croissant is more than a treat, it’s a moment worth savoring. JunoBakery.com
ARTICLE BY SIERRA MOORE PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACE GLADHILL PHOTOGRAPHY
Wye Oak Tavern
Lemon Meringue & Apple Dumpling
At Wye Oak Tavern, dessert becomes art with their deconstructed Lemon Meringue. Sunny spheres of lemon curd spill their tangy brightness onto the plate, surrounded by airy peaks of torched meringue and the buttery crunch of coconut streusel. A cool scoop of coconut sorbet refreshes the palate, creating a warm, cold, crisp and silky symphony of textures. It’s the perfect finale for anyone seeking a refined twist on a timeless classic. Harmonize with Ravines Wine Cellars Dry Riesling from the Finger Lakes.
A true ode to fall flavors, the Apple Dumpling boasts tender, caramel-glazed apple nestled within a golden, flaky pastry that soaks up every drop of buttery sweetness. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce pools luxuriously over the dessert, mingling with the crunch of a cereal granola, served alongside a generous scoop of ice cream. Enjoy it with the Sun Rush cocktail whose warm spice, citrus brightness and subtle floral notes beautifully complement each decadent bite. WyeOakTavern.com
South Mountain Creamery
“Gone Bananas” Loaded Milkshake
The Gone Banana’s milkshake at South Mountain Creamery is a nostalgic daydream served in a cup. Built on their Nutty Nana ice cream, it’s layered with ribbons of caramel and presented in a glass rimmed with vanilla icing and crushed graham crackers. Towers of whipped cream, a dusting of graham cracker and two full-sized Nutter Butters make this shake part dessert, part spectacle. It’s playful and wonderfully over-thetop—so much so that pairing it with anything else feels unnecessary. This milkshake is the main event, the side act and the encore all in one. SouthMountainCreamery.com
Wine Kitchen
Strawberry Shortcake Crème Brûlée
The Wine Kitchen’s Strawberry Shortcake Crème Brûlée is elegance served with a wink of comfort food dressed in its Sunday best. Silky buttermilk custard hides beneath a caramelized sugar crust, its richness offset by roasted strawberry preserves that lend a bright, fruity tang. A tender sweet biscuit and a dollop of whipped buttermilk tie the flavors together, creating a dessert that’s as layered in taste as it is in texture. For a perfect complement, pair it with the Jack Rose—apple brandy, grenadine and lemon—which mirrors the dessert’s fruit-forward notes while adding a crisp, citrus lifting the palate for the next spoonful. TheWineKitchen.com
Original Popcorn House
Loaded Baked Potato Popcorn
Proof that popcorn can be dinner-worthy, the Loaded Baked Potato Popcorn kernels burst with the savory essence of potato, creamy cheese, smoky bacon, a hint of sour cream and just the right amount of chive. The result is a snack that’s as satisfying as it is addictive, perfect for movie nights, game days or whenever your cravings lean salty over sweet. It also happens to be a natural companion to an ice-cold beer—one handful and one sip in and you’ll understand why locals can’t get enough. OriginalPopcornHouse.com
Candy Kitchen
Sea Salt Caramels
There’s a reason Candy Kitchen’s Sea Salt Caramels have a loyal following. Each piece begins with a soft, buttery caramel so rich it melts instantly on the tongue, wrapped in smooth milk or dark chocolate. For those seeking a twist, the dark chocolate habanero variety adds a subtle, smoky heat to the sweetness. A delicate sprinkle of sea salt teases out the caramel’s depth, creating a harmonious blend of sweet, salty and rich. For an elevated experience, try them with a pour of bourbon—its warm caramel, vanilla and spice notes mirror the candy’s flavors beautifully. These hand-crafted confections show that the most memorable indulgences are often the simplest. CandyKitchen.com
-- Marianne H.
To Boba & Beyond
Tea-Do: The Anime-Inspired Community Bubble Tea Shop Frederick is Buzzing About
Frederick has plenty of places to grab a drink, but Tea-Do has quickly become more than just another stop. Tucked beside Lucky Corner in Westview, this anime-inspired boba shop is carving out a name for itself as both a destination for bold, flavorful drinks and a welcoming hub for community connection. It’s a place where everyone can discover a sip made just for them.
Tea-Do began with a simple vision: to serve refreshing, delicious beverages in a space where everyone feels at home. Originally founded in Fairfax and Boston, it has expanded into Frederick with the same commitment to pairing Asian-inspired flavors with an atmosphere designed for gathering.
The space itself feels alive—board games stacked for group play, an art wall blooming with customer and staff creations and a playful energy that makes you want to stay longer than planned.
The appeal doesn’t end with drinks. Tea-Do’s small bites have already earned loyal fans, from the “to die for” onigiri rice balls to crispy chicken karaage that’s loved by both kids and adults. With food and beverages made for sharing, it’s a spot that encourages connection as much as indulgence.
What sets Tea-Do apart is its spirit. The anime theme isn’t just décor—it’s part of the shop’s identity. The growing art wall is a canvas for community creativity, while cozy seating and board games transform the café into a place where friends, families and first-time visitors feel like regulars.
ARTICLE BY SIERRA MOORE
A fan favorite for good reason, this velvety creation swirls rich, caramel-dark ribbons of brown sugar syrup into smooth, creamy milk tea, creating a distinct tiger stripe effect in the cup. Each sip is a luxurious blend of deep sweetness and silky texture. Soft, chewy tapioca pearls add the perfect contrast, making every mouthful indulgent, satisfying and crave-worthy. It’s a bold, decadent treat that tastes as incredible as it looks.
Brown Sugar Tiger Milk Tea
This striking ombré drink—deep indigo fading gracefully into lavender—is as much a visual delight as it is a flavorful escape. Infused with antioxidant-rich butterfly pea tea, it offers subtle floral notes that perfectly complement the delicate sweetness of lychee. Lychee jelly adds a fun, juicy texture, making every sip refreshing, vibrant and full of personality. It’s a dreamy, Instagram-worthy treat that tastes as enchanting as it looks.
Playful and lighthearted, this blend of delicate white peach tea and tangy yogurt popping pearls bursts with flavor in every sip. It’s a drink that refuses to be boring—fun, fruity and full of texture. The creamy tea base contrasts beautifully with the bright pop of pearls, creating an experience that keeps surprising you all the way to the last drop. Refreshing yet indulgent, it’s a joyful little escape served in a cup.
Comfort in a glass, this smooth watermelon blend is juicy, bright and surprisingly grounding as the weather transitions. Its natural sweetness pairs with a velvety finish that refreshes without overwhelming, like a bite of late-season fruit at its peak. Each sip feels like crisp air, colorful leaves and cozy afternoons. Sweet, smooth and endlessly satisfying, it’s a delicious pickme-up that carries the freshness of the season and pairs beautifully with any topping.
Shinobu
Baja Peach
Watermelon
Smoothie
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YOUR DRINK DRESS UP
THESE BEAUTIFUL BEVERAGES ARE SURE TO TURN HEADS
BLUE MARTINI WITH FLORAL ICE CUBES
BOLD COLORS Fresh florals. An eye-catching shimmer. The perfect embellishment. We’re talking cocktails, not the catwalk. But like fashion, the art of mixology is full of ways to push the limits with creative twists on classic recipes, and unique adornments guaranteed to turn heads. There’s no reason your personal style can’t extend to the drink in your hand, and this botanical beverage is bound to taste as delicious as it looks.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 ounces Absolut Citron
• 1/2 ounce Blue Curaçao
• 1/2 ounce lemonade
• 1 ounce Sprite
• Edible flowers such as rose, lavender, hibiscus and nasturtiums
DIRECTIONS:
Pour Sprite into ice cube trays and add edible flower combinations. Let freeze overnight.
Combine Absolut Citron, Blue Curaçao, lemonade and ice cubes in martini shaker. Shake and strain into a martini glass.
Allow ice cubes to melt, gradually filling the glass with Sprite and garnishing the drink with beautiful botanicals.
ARTICLE BY CATE MARIAN
FIG + THYME
SPARKLING LEMONADE
INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:
• thyme simple syrup
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 bunch thyme
• 2 fresh figs
• 3/4 ounce lemon juice
• 3/4 ounce thyme syrup
• 3/4 ounce Sprite
In a small saucepan, simmer sugar, water and thyme leaves over low heat for 5 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let the thyme infuse into the syrup for at least 10 minutes.
For the cocktail, muddle figs and lemon juice in the bottom of a glass. Add ice, 3/4 of the thyme syrup and Sprite. Stir and garnish with fig and a sprig of thyme.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 1/2 ounces premium vodka
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• 2 ounces purple shimmery liqueur
• Blackberry vodka
• Moscato wine
• Luster petal dust
• Sugar syrup (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine blackberry vodka, moscato wine and pinch of luster petal dust to make purple shimmery liqueur. Adjust proportions depending on flavor preferences. Add sugar syrup to make it sweeter if desired.
Pour vodka, shimmery liqueur and lemon juice into a cocktail shaker. Shake well and pour into glass over ice.
PURPLE KISS
PASSION FRUIT
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 tablespoons passion fruit
• 6-8 mint leaves, chopped, plus 2-3 small sprigs
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 ounce club soda
DIRECTIONS:
Muddle passion fruit, mint leaves, sugar and lime juice in bottom of glass.
Fill with crushed ice.
Finish with club soda and stir.
Garnish with slice of passion fruit, pineapple and mint sprigs.
Treating highly-satisfied patients since 1999
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OCTOBER 4TH
13th Annual Gravity Soul
Fall Festival & Dual Slalom
4125 Coxey Brown Rd, Myersville 10:00 AM
Gear up for a thrilling weekend at Old Harmony Farm in Myersville, MD, where the Gravity Soul Fall Festival meets heart-pounding dual slalom bike racing. Nestled in this scenic setting, the festival offers a grassroots, community-centered vibe—perfect for riders of all levels, whether you're on a balance bike or racing professionally. VisitFrederick.org
OCTOBER 11TH-12TH
Catoctin Colorfest
Thurmont Community Park | 9:00 AM
Catoctin Colorfest of Thurmont, MD celebrates local art, jewelry, crafts and delicious food. One of the largest outdoor craft shows on the East Coast, it’s the perfect way to enjoy unique finds amid the beauty of vibrant autumn leaves. VisitFrederick.org
OCTOBER 18TH
Archibald Sanctuary
6011 Fred Boyers Mill Rd, New Market | 9:00 AM
Explore birds, bugs, critters, and the plants that support them with an Audubon Society of Central Maryland (ASCM) naturalist! This guided walk will take you through diverse habitats such as meadows, streams, and mature woodlands within ASCM’s 140-acre sanctuary. Free. Family friendly. Please no pets. Weather dependent. CentralMDAudubon.org
Find Your Community
When you join Homewood Living Frederick, you will find a warm, welcoming community where neighbors become lifelong friends. Here, connection and community are in the heart of everything we do. Whether taking an art class, enjoying a meal in the dining room, or participating in social events, each day will offer opportunities for you to enjoy.
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OCTOBER 18TH-19TH
Oktoberfest at Schifferstadt
1110 Rosemont Ave, Frederick | 11:00 AM
One of Frederick's main events! Join a historic Oktoberfest celebration with traditional food, drink, live music, artisan crafts and tours of the 18th-century stone house. VisitFrederick.org
OCTOBER 25TH
Brunswick Trunk-or-Treat
Downtown Brunswick | 6:00 PM
Enjoy an amazing annual family-friendly Halloween event with decorated trunks, candy, live DJ and costume contest. Fun for all ages! VisitFrederick.org
OCTOBER 26TH
Downtown Frederick
Trick-or-Treat
Downtown Frederick | 10:00 AM
Businesses along Carroll Creek and Everedy Square hand out candy, offer face painting and host pumpkin crafts in a pet-friendly downtown celebration. VisitFrederick.org
STEVE BLAIR
STEVE BARBER
S
P A G H E T T I
P O M O D O R O
BY AMY BAILEY
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
Enjoy this simple, flavorful food for the soul. ‘Pomodoro’ means tomato in Italian, and that’s what this dish is - a fresh tomato sauce with basil, garlic, onion, and olive oil.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 Tbsp salt
• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup onion, finely diced
• 4 garlic cloves, finely diced or minced
• 1 lb fresh tomatoes, halved or chopped (I use garden cherry tomatoes if in season or Roma tomatoes are a good choice)
• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
• 3 basil sprigs, divided
• 1 lb. spaghetti
• 1 cup Parmesan, finely grated, divided
• 1 Tbsp butter
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat medium-size Dutch Oven or large skillet over medium heat then add extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt. Once hot, add chopped onion then saute until tender, 2-3 minutes. Add fresh garlic and saute until golden but not brown, another 30 seconds.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan with a pinch of sugar then simmer on medium-low for 20-25 minutes. Stir and press the tomatoes against the bottom and sides of the pan to make saucier. If sauce begins to pop too much, turn down even further. (If sauce starts to thicken too much add pasta water as needed.)
3. Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to boil for the pasta and season generously with salt.
4. When sauce is almost ready, add fresh basil leaves torn into small pieces, plus butter, remaining salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Add more salt to taste if needed.
5. Cook the pasta until it’s just shy of al dente then transfer it to the sauce pot with tongs to finish cooking directly in the sauce. Add splashes of pasta water if needed to cook pasta all the way and to keep it saucy.
6. Toss pasta and sauce with 1/2 Parmesan cheese. Serve in pasta bowls and sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Garnish with fresh basil.
