What makes a HOUSE a HOME?
A home is more than just four walls and a roof — it’s where your story begins. It’s rooted in the warmth of a connected community, where neighbors become friends and everyday encounters spark lasting bonds.
It’s the local businesses that stand by you through every season, the shared spaces where memories are made, and the sense of belonging that turns a simple structure into something truly special.
At the heart of every home is a journey — one filled with dreams, decisions, and discovery. We’re here to walk alongside you, every step of the way, as you find not just a place to live, but a place to truly belong. BECAUSE A HOME IS MORE THAN WHERE YOU LIVE — IT’S WHERE LIFE HAPPENS.
Window Traditions serves the Southeast area with a heritage of quality that dates back to 1990. Because we strive to be the best at what we do, we ensure integrity and excellence permeate every aspect of our operations. As a privately held business, our employees are empowered to resolve any problem onsite. And we stand behind every job we do.
We invite you to learn more about our team at Window Traditions. Our broad expertise and years of experience are unmatched in the Atlanta area. We bring knowledge of windows and doors that is second to none. Our team understands which products to recommend for your project and your budget, and they have experience with many different challenges and approaches to projects.
Hello friends,
After hiking an intensely vertical 2-mile trail to Scenic Hot Springs near Skykomish, Washington, my sister and I limped down the final stretch to a clearing where two natural rock pools and two smaller temporary soaking pools awaited our weary bodies. We soaked, snacked and thanked the universe for our good fortune before hiking back down. Famished, we found LouSkis Deli and ate cheeseburgers on the picnic table on the bank of the South Fork of the Skykomish River. The place was run by women and the chef looked me in the eye and smiled when she handed me my burger basket. Well, that was the best meal I've had in months. The bun was soft, not fussy, the lettuce and tomato were fresh, not afterthoughts. The beef patty was loose at the edges and cooked to perfection. Magnifique! And yes, the fact that I'd just hiked and soaked the day away, building an epic appetite, made the burger better. And yes, dining with my sister makes everything taste more delicious. She is funny and laughs at my stupid jokes. She is intelligent and makes me feel important. We are extremely compatible, but not the same.
And, we both devoured our cheeseburgers that day, our best meal of the year.
In this annual FOOD and BEV issue, we pull up a chair to some newer spots and classic favorites. Enjoy the photography and interviews and don't forget to tip your servers generously!
Bon Appétit!
SUE G. COLLINS, EDITOR @JOHNSCREEKCITYLIFESTYLE
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Aleksandar Kapetanovic
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Elissa Rosen
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Julie Sparling
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
1: Holistic Health Center was a sponsor at OCEE Elementary School Open House. 2. Chef George in action, demonstrating the performance of premium appliances at the newly renovated Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove Atlanta Showroom. 3. A stunning ice sculpture celebrates Sub-Zero’s 80th anniversary, honoring eight decades of craftsmanship and innovation.
BestOfGwinnettWinner NINEYearsInARow!
A Community That Captivates
A neighborhood designed for wellness and connection - Village Park Peachtree Corners takes the best of active living and couples it with a seamless throughline of care and service. Our campus is fully licensed to discretely provide care services whenever they are needed - without moving or waiting. At Village Park, your private residence will empower your independence and connect you to an active, enlivened community, today and for years to come.
Call today for availability on Peachtree Corners’ most coveted senior residences.
Schools News
Northview High School’s Quiz Bowl team placed second in the national competition of National Academic Quiz Tournaments (NAQT), the premier middle school, high school, community college and college national quiz bowl championships in North America. This is the highest-ever placement for a Georgia school. Northview’s team, led by Coach Scott Fowler. From left: Anoop Valavoju (10th), Alex Steppe (11th), Ray Claret (10th), Sheehan Banka (ninth), and Kaiden Lee (ninth).
Feeling Beautiful
Mix and mingle with world-renowned plastic surgeons, master injectors and award-winning estheticians at The Graivier Center’s annual Evening of Beauty. On Thursday, November 6, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., residents of Alpharetta and the surrounding area are invited to the state-of-the-art facility to bite, sip, tour, demo and consult with experts of all things beauty, aesthetics and wellness. Luxury giveaways and exclusive pricing on spa services and injectables will also take place throughout the evening.
CAL COUCH
For years, readers of Johns Creek Magazine have recognized the familiar face of Cal Couch—a trusted real estate professional who has guided countless families in finding their place in North Atlanta. But beyond his professional reputation, Cal is a devoted husband, father, and neighbor with a deep-rooted passion for the community he proudly calls home.
Together with his wife and business partner, Regan Maki Couch, Cal has built a successful career dedicated to guiding families through meaningful real estate decisions. Outside of work, they are proud parents to three children: Huntley, a student at Johns Creek High School; Kennedy, who attends Cornerstone Christian Academy; and their eldest, CJ, who resides in Braselton. The family is actively involved in their community and faith, attending Peachtree Corners Baptist Church. For the Couch family, everything begins and ends with a strong foundation in family values.
Regan’s connection to Johns Creek dates back to 1972, when her father joined the Atlanta Athletic Club—planting the first seeds of what would become a lifelong bond with the area. That legacy continues as Regan and Cal raise their own family here, having chosen Johns Creek as the place to establish their forever home. “Once we decided this would be where our children grow up and where we’d put down roots, I felt a calling to serve,” Cal shares.
THAT CALLING HAS INSPIRED CAL
With over 25 years of experience in residential real estate and related industries, Cal brings a results-oriented, common-sense approach to leadership. His priorities include preserving the character of Johns Creek while keeping it safe, vibrant, and family-focused for generations to come. Cal encourages open dialogue and invites residents to reach out with ideas, concerns, or questions about the future of our city.
EVENING OF Eerie Elegance
DON'T
YOU DARE MISS THE GHOSTS & GOBLINS GALA AT AUTREY MILL
Autrey Mill Nature Preserve is delighted to announce the First Annual Ghosts & Goblins Gala , an adults-only celebration of mystery and charm. The gala will be held on Friday, October 17 from 6:00–8:00 PM in a stunning Victorian-style mansion with a spooky history.
The idea for the gala grew out of the incredible success of our beloved Spooky Mill , a family-friendly Halloween tradition that brings hundreds of children and parents to our preserve each October. Many supporters expressed interest in an event tailored just for adults, one that would capture the same festive spirit while offering a more refined experience. Thus, the Ghosts & Goblins Gala was born—a chance to celebrate Halloween in style while raising vital funds for our programs.
Guests will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer and a hauntingly delicious specialty cocktail as they mix and mingle. Adding to the evening’s allure is a silent auction featuring unique treasures and experiences, with all proceeds supporting Autrey Mill’s mission. From nature education to historic preservation and conservation efforts, funds raised at the gala help provide engaging programs for the community year-round.
“By hosting this new event the night before Spooky Mill , we hope to create a weekend of celebration—one that invites both adults and families to share in the magic of the season,” says executive director Lizen Hayes. The gala offers a glamorous start, while Spooky Mill follows with carnival games, haunted tours and plenty of kid-friendly fun. Together, these events highlight the many ways Autrey Mill brings people of all ages together through history, nature and community spirit.
Tickets are $50 per person or $85 per couple, and space is limited. Costumes are encouraged but not required. To learn more or reserve your spot, visit autreymill.org/ special-events/ghosts-goblins-gala/. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the glamour and the goosebumps of our inaugural gala—we promise it will be a night to remember.
HAPPY DEEPAVALI!
The entire community is invited to help celebrate the symbolic meaning of Diwali, a “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.”
The Johns Creek Diwali Market will feature an incredible celebration of cultural vendors, performers and food on Saturday, Oct. 11 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Johns Creek City Hall.
The event will feature a large market with a variety of food and retail vendors, as well as entertainment throughout the event. A delicious assortment of food vendors will be on site at the market offering cultural delights and local cuisines.
The Johns Creek Diwali Market is a vibrant celebration that reflects the city’s commitment to cultural diversity and community engagement. The festival was first introduced in 2022 by City Council to expand the calendar of special events and to host event in line with the needs and desires of the community.
The Diwali celebration quickly became one of the city’s most popular events, and by 2024, it evolved into a Diwali Market featuring food, cultural performances and a bustling marketplace, all organized in partnership with a resident steering committee and City staff. This collaborative model ensures that each Diwali celebration is shaped by the community, for the community, with volunteers playing key roles in planning, sponsorship, vendor recruitment and event execution.
Through the dedication of its volunteers and the support of city staff, the Johns Creek Diwali Market has become a shining example of how a community can come together to celebrate its rich cultural tapestry and create lasting memories for all who attend. This family-friendly market is a community-organized Diwali event and embraces the cultural diversity of our Johns Creek community.
Details and volunteer opportunities at JohnsCreekGA.gov
CELEBRATE AT THE JOHNS CREEK DIWALI MARKET
WHAT JOHNS CREEK CHEFS AND CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING ABOUT DINING THIS MONTH, STAFF FAVORITES AND PERFECT PAIRINGS.
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
WHAT WE’RE EATING (AND SIPPING)
“Our service is hands down our best quality. We pride ourselves on really making you feel like home when you walk through our doors.”
RUSHING TRADING CO CHEF AMBER RUSHING
Our apple pie French toast is the first of its kind! We don’t usually have something like this on the menu but because of North Georgia’s famous apples, we wanted to incorporate it into our fall menu. It’s a sweet cream French toast with a sweet cinnamon apple pie filling, cream, fresh apples and a walnut strudel on top. Yum!
Another fall favorite, that has been on the menu for a few years now, is our Bourbon Apple Chai. Kentucky bourbon, organic apple cider, orange liquor and chai. Truly one of our best cocktails creations yet.
We have a family meal for staff usually for big event days and decorating parties. It usually includes homemade southern fried chicken piccata, short rib and some kind of pasta.
Our service is hands down our best quality. We pride ourselves on really making you feel like home when you walk through our doors. We aim for fresh, quality food too but our people is what makes RTC truly special.
RushingTradingCo.com 9810 Medlock Bridge Rd IG: @rushingtradingco
CONTINUED >
Rushing Trading Co
VICE KITCHEN NICK LEAHY
While we are a Butcher/Retail shop, we like to cook seasonally in the store when making all of the prepared dinners and sides. We’re looking forward to the upcoming cooler weather so we can do more hearty braised dishes, like our Sausage Lasagna, Braised Short Ribs and Beouf Bourguignon. Going to the cooler weather dishes, I’d suggest something bigger like the Prisoner Red Blend, or the Lone Eagle Cabernet. We carry a great selection of food friendly wines, beers and more in the shop to complement the meat selection.
Our staff favorites? Definitely pasta with beef ragu or any taco/fajita combination. I think the thing that sets us apart from other butcher shops is the fact that we own our own cows/and pigs and own the slaughterhouse (processing facility if you prefer), so we control the animals all the way from the field to the store (and the same at our restaurants, Smash Burgers by Vice, & Vice Steak Bar.
ViceKitchen.com
6000 Medlock Bridge Pkwy Suite E-800 IG: @vice.kitchen
The goods at Vice Kitchen
SUGO
RICARDO SOTO, EXECUTIVE CHEF
This season, you must try the Veal saltimbocca, Roasted Butternut squash (utilizing North Georgia roaster squash when in season), local mushrooms (shiitakes and oysters), 24-month Prosciutto di Parma, fresh sage and veal demi glaze.
To complement the dish, sip Brancetelli Valle Delle Stelle Cabernet Sauvignon or an ice-cold Peroni.
When we feed our team, one of the fan favorites is blackened chicken pasta, blackened chicken, sweet peas, roasted red peppers, red onions and a Cajun cream sauce, which is a dish we currently have on the menu but popular among the staff.
“Each dish embodies both heritage and innovation, creating a dining experience that feels both familiar and new.”
The creative fusion of cuisines, along with what guests treasure most about this restaurant, is its seamless fusion of Greek and Italian culinary traditions, where time-honored family recipes are reimagined with a modern sensibility. Each dish embodies both heritage and innovation, creating a dining experience that feels both familiar and new. Paired with genuine hospitality, thoughtful details and an atmosphere that radiates warmth, every meal becomes not just dinner, but a memorable occasion.
SugoRestaurant.com
IG: SugoRestaurant 10305 Medlock Bridge Road
Cozy table at Sugo
Photo by Castellucci Hospitality Group
Evening of Giving
Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce betting on a good time.
Agape Family Healthcare Services Inc. has become a cornerstone of compassion and care in the Johns Creek community. Since their grand opening in July 2024, they have been honored to serve families with dignity and empathy, offering personalized home healthcare that uplifts both clients and caregivers. “Our partnership with the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce has been instrumental in our growth, connecting us with like-minded organizations and amplifying our mission to provide high-quality, multidisciplinary care. Through this collaboration, we’ve not only expanded our services but also deepened our impact, creating meaningful job opportunities and supporting the local economy,” says Lamont McLeod, CEO of Agape Family Healthcare Services Inc.
Again this year, Agape will benefit from financial support from the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce and an event this month will raise funds for this important, continued community partnership.
The annual Chamber Casino Night is set for 6 pm, October 10 at YiFan Restaurant & Event Center and the public is invited. Tickets include food, drinks, games, networking and entertainment. Choice items from local businesses will also be raffled off to benefit the Chamber’s work.
Besides supporting local needs, the Chamber provides meaningful introductions and access to other business owners.
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
“The Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce has been an invaluable resource for Honest-1 Auto Care. Their networking events and community involvement initiatives have truly helped us connect with other local businesses and residents,” says Butch Carter, Owner, Honest-1 Auto Care.”We’ve seen a direct positive impact on our business thanks to the Chamber’s dedication to fostering a thriving Johns Creek economy. Highly recommend joining!”
Everyone is welcome at the event. Grab your neighbors, book group, in-laws or make it a date night, all to support the Chamber that makes Johns Creek tick.
“Together, we’ve built a stronger, healthier community—one home, one family, one heart at a time,” says Lamont McLeod.
See you there!
Visit the Calendar on JohnsCreekChamber.com to get your tickets.
SAVORING LIFE
Eating well, living well.
ARTICLE BY ELISSA ROSEN
At Village Park Milton, dining isn’t just about mealtime—it’s about creating experiences that bring people together. With a culinary program that rivals Johns Creek’s most stylish restaurants, the community has become a destination, offering everything from panoramic dining rooms to intimate wine tastings.
“...food at Village Park is about more than what’s on the plate (although that is important, too)—it’s about connection, memory and joy.”
Founded with the belief that senior living should be social, active and vibrant; Village Park has redefined the concept of retirement communities. Nowhere is that more evident than at the Milton location, which recently unveiled a recent expansion adding nearly 100 new residences along with a host of new food and beverage offerings.
RESTAURANTS WITH A STORY
At the heart of Village Park Milton are its signature restaurants, each designed with its own character and purpose.
“Food is an art form, a love language, a cloak of comfort,” says JP Burns, Food and Beverage Director at Village Park Milton. “The goal of the culinary team is not only to nourish, but to inspire memories, conversations, tease the taste buds and broaden the scope of culinary creations.”
The 555, named for the community’s original address on Wills Road, is a full-service American restaurant with a distinctly Southern spirit. Its millwork interiors nod to Milton’s history, while the menu celebrates seasonal flavors. Floor-to-ceiling windows open to sweeping views of Wills Park Equestrian Center, creating a backdrop that makes every meal feel special.
Seated right next door, The Blue Hen Bistro serves lighter fare—think fresh salads, sandwiches and morning coffee. For many residents, it’s a beloved part of their daily routine, a place to meet a neighbor, grab a bite, or linger over conversation.
The latest addition is The 119 . Located on the west side of the community, The 119—named for the new Alpharetta highway address—carries forward the same thoughtful design with a contemporary edge. Expansive windows look out onto the plush pavilion of cottages and bungalows, while the private dining space
offers 270-degree views of the East building, bungalow pavilion and encompassing treeline. “The 119 was an opportunity to elevate the dining experience to levels above other senior living communities by bringing unique ingredients, classic techniques and passion to the plate,” says Culinary Director JP Burns.
A full bar, wrapped in sleek metallic trim, adds to the allure, bringing an elevated atmosphere for both residents and guests.
MORE THAN DINING
Village Park Milton’s commitment to food and beverage extends beyond the restaurants. Its wine room is a destination of its own, offering curated selections of domestic and imported wines. Tastings, pairings and social events make it a space where residents can discover new flavors— or revisit old favorites—while sharing stories around the table.
“Village Park Milton incorporates many elements of fine dining from the tableware to furniture and décor, the service and even the kitchens themselves,” Burns says.
It’s this sense of community, woven through every restaurant and gathering space, that sets Village Park apart. Dining isn’t an afterthought—it is a central piece of lifestyle.
A LIFESTYLE WORTH LIVING
For those seeking a residence that blends the comfort of home with the excitement of new and luxurious experiences, Village Park Milton offers something rare. The recent expansion has created new opportunities to join the community with thoughtfully designed residences that are steps aways from a thriving culinary scene.
From casual bistro bites to elegant dining and evenings spent in the wine room, food at Village Park is about more than what’s on the plate (although that is important, too)— it’s about connection, memory and joy—and most importantly a luxurious sense of fine dining and hospitality.
11950 Alpharetta Highway VillageParkMilton.com
STYLE IS FOREVER
MAGNIFICENT Mushrooms
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
With their firm texture and irresistible, fruity aroma of apricots, chanterelle mushrooms are one of the most popular edible wild mushrooms. They are known as the “forest’s gold,” offering a rewarding sensory experience of the hunt, a unique, slightly fruity and peppery taste, and a bright, trumpet-like shape.
You won’t need to go on the hunt, however, because Chef Liv Hurst has sourced them and will be serving up gold this month at Cattle Shed. We caught up with Chef Liv to ask about this forest find, and more.
THIS JUST IN, FROM THE KITCHEN OF THE CATTLE SHED:
I am very excited for mushroom season this fall. Chanterelle and oyster mushrooms are some of my favorite varieties. We use these in our Mushroom Alfredo with house-made tagliatelle. The fresh pasta truly elevates the dish, making the mushrooms the star.
For white wine fans, I recommend an acidic Pinot Grigio like Santa Margherita from Italy to complement these dishes. For red wine lovers, I suggest a low-tannin Pinot Noir, such as Stoller Family Estates from Willamette Valley in Oregon, which is a personal favorite.
I prepare a family meal for staff at least twice a week. My team always gets excited when I make fried rice and buffalo chicken wraps.
Our regular diners often tell us that our drive and passion for hospitality are what keep them coming back. We take pride in all areas of the restaurant, from behind the bar to the prep kitchen, to ensure every guest leaves happy and excited to return.
CattleShedWinebar.com 6290 Halcyon Way
STAY CONNECTED TO
JOHNS CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE™
Stacked for Fall
THE SEASON’S BEST SANDWICHES
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
There’s something deeply satisfying about a well-made sandwich—especially when it comes together with minimal effort but delivers big on flavor. As the season changes and appetites grow heartier, fall is the perfect time to get creative with ingredients tucked between slices of crusty bread or buttery rolls. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your lunch routine, enjoy comforting flavors and bold textures, or impress guests with a no-fuss meal, these easy-to-make sandwiches strike the perfect balance between simple and sensational.
Roast Beef with Horseradish Cream
Savory
INGREDIENTS
• 2 slices crusty bread (sourdough, ciabatta, French bread)
• 6 oz roast beef
• 2 slices provolone cheese
• 2 tbsp butter (for toasting)
INSTRUCTIONS
• 2 ½ tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp horseradish sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Arugula
• Cherry tomato
• Caramelized onions
Toast the bread. Butter one side of each slice and toast in a skillet until golden. Heat roast beef briefly in a pan. To make the spread, mix mayo, horseradish sauce, and Dijon. Spread on the toasted bread. Layer roast beef, cheese, and broil briefly to melt. Add arugula, tomato, and caramelized onions if using. Top with the second slice of bread.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 grilled chicken breast
• 2 slices pepper jack cheese
• 2 slices cooked bacon
• 1 tbsp fruit jam (fig, raspberry, or jalapeño recommended)
INSTRUCTIONS
• A handful of fresh arugula
• 3–4 cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 tbsp garlic aioli
• 1 brioche bun (toasted)
Lightly butter the inside of the bun and toast in a skillet or oven until golden brown. Spread a layer of garlic aioli on the bottom bun. Add the sliced grilled chicken breast. Place the pepper jack cheese over the hot chicken to slightly melt it. Layer on the crispy bacon slices. Add halved cherry tomatoes and a small handful of arugula. Spread the jam on the top bun. Enjoy!
INGREDIENTS
• 3 oz goat cheese
• Fresh arugula
• ¼ cup caramelized onions
• 1 pear, thinly sliced
• Honey, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
• Butter for toasting the bread
• Rotisserie chicken breast thinly sliced
• Sourdough bread, buttered (optional)
Spread goat cheese on one side of the bread. Top the cheese with arugula, caramelized onions, sliced pears and chicken breast. Drizzle with honey. Top with remaining slice of sourdough bread. Use a griddle or panini press to heat the sandwich.
At Dentistry at Ivy Falls, Dr. Joshua Kim and Dr. Gene Chung believe that every smile tells a story—and they’re here to help yours shine. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll experience dental care that’s personal, comfortable, and genuinely caring.
Whether you’re here for a routine visit or exploring a full smile transformation, you’ll always be treated like family—with the time, attention, and expertise you deserve.
Real care. Real connection. Real results. Because your smile deserves more than just routine.
Dr. Josh Kim & Dr. Gene Chung
OCTOBER 4TH
Concert Series: Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra
Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater | 6:00 PM
Concerts are rain or shine. In the case of rain, attendees are welcome to bring umbrellas. No pop-up tents, please. If we experience lightning or severe weather, we may delay the start of the concert or evacuate if necessary.
OCTOBER 10TH
Classes at Blossom and Vine
5950 State Bridge Rd | 1:00 PM
Turn your creativity into breathtaking works of art with expertly curated floral design classes. Whether you’re mastering beginner-to-advanced floral arrangements, building lush terrariums, or diving into botanical drawing, all are welcome. Also Oct. 27 at 6 p.m. For more information visit BlossomandVine.com
OCTOBER 18TH
JCBC Jaunt 5K & Fun Run
Cauley Creek Park | 8:30 PM
This exciting event is not just about running; it’s a celebration of community spirit and support for a wonderful cause. Participants can choose to run the 5K or join in the 1 Mile Fun Run, with all proceeds benefiting the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, a local gem dedicated to enriching the lives of children through
exploration.
