Issuu

Celebrating Food GARDEN IN G GE AR WE LOV E E ATIN G OUT: WH ERE TO GO TH IS M O NTH DAFFO DILS 4 H O PE IS O CTO BER 1 0

O C TO B E R 2 02 6

Framing Fall

Motorized Shades | Shutters | Blinds | Drapery

678.822.0928 | V classicblindsalpharetta classicblindsandshutters.com 488 N Main St #109, Alpharetta, GA 30009

An Elevated Perspective On Johns Creek Real Estate There is a difference between knowing the market and truly knowing the community. For more than two decades, REGAN MAKI COUCH has brought market expertise, strategic insight, and highly personalized service to Atlanta real estate. As a longtime Johns Creek resident and one of Georgia’s leading real estate professionals, Regan offers an invaluable local perspective — backed by the global reach of Ansley Real Estate Christie’s International. From distinguished neighborhoods and exceptional schools to championship golf and an extraordinary quality of life, Johns Creek is a remarkable place to call home. WHEN IT’S TIME TO MAKE YOUR MOVE, TRUST THE TEAM THAT KNOWS JOHNS CREEK BEST.

Local Expertise. Global Connections. Exceptional Results. REGAN MAKI COUCH

c. 404.304.6452 | o. 404.480.HOME | Regan@AnsleyRE.com CAL COUCH

c. 678.725.3942 | o. 770.284.9900 | Cal@AnsleyRE.com 404.480.HOME | 3035 PEACHTREE ROAD, SUITE 202, ATLANTA, GA 30305 | ANSLEYRE.COM All data believed to be accurate but not warranted. Ansley upholds Equal Housing Opportunity & Federal Fair Housing policies. If you have an existing relationship with another brokerage, this is not intended as a solicitation.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Hello friends, Do you love weeding as much as I do? There's something so very satisfying about tidying up a bed of flowers or vegetables and digging out the stalky grasses, invasive broadleaves and sassy sedges. I spend time on an organic farm (between publishing issues of the magazine) where I can put my penchant for weeding to good use. Today, I worked on a rather neglected 50-foot bed of arugula for nearly two hours, coaxing the amaranth from its deep roots and plucking unwelcome grasses from between the rows of light green arugula leaves, trying like heck to find space to spread and thrive. I think I heard a collective sigh, each plant finally relaxing instead of elbowing through the weeds. In a few weeks, we'll harvest the bed and send the peppery greens to restaurants and a farmers' market. That's where food comes from. This month, we celebrate the food that someone else cooks for us. We visit restaurants, talk to chefs and celebrate wines and no-proof drinks (one industry pro calls non-alcoholic drinks, "NActails"). Cheers to all the front and back of house staff at our favorite restaurants who bring good food to our tables. And, thank you to the farmers who grow the vegetables and tend the land where our food grazes and grows. Enjoy this issue.

October 2026 PUBLISHER

Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com S E N I O R AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com AD M I N I ST R AT I VE D I R E C TO R

Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R

Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Stacy Conde, Dennis Malcolm Byron

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz

All my best,

CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

SUE G. COLLINS, EDITOR @ J O H N S C R E E KC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Pictured is the crew from Nonna Lucia Italian in Johns Creek.

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Johns Creek City Lifestyle® is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Johns Creek area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/JOHNSCREEK

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Johns Creek City Lifestyle® is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

www.HavenLaneDesign.com www.HavenLaneDesign.com || (470) (470) 321 321 -- 2467 2467

Full Service Interior Design Studio + home + home Decor Decor Boutique Boutique

Full Service Interior Design Studio

5950 State 5950 State Bridge Bridge Road Road Suite 105 Suite 105 Johns Creek, Johns Creek, Ga Ga 30097 30097

DÉCOR + ACCENTS, WALL DÉCOR, TEXTILES, LIGHTING, TABLETOP, KITCHEN DÉCOR, STEMS, BARWARE, + MORE DÉCOR + ACCENTS, WALL DÉCOR, TEXTILES, LIGHTING, TABLETOP, KITCHEN DÉCOR, STEMS, BARWARE, + MORE

MON - FRI 10AM TO 5PM | SAT 11AM TO 2PM CLOSED SUNDAYS

inside the issue OC TOB E R 2 02 6 | FOOD & D R I N K

18 Featured

18 26

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Why Not Dine Out?

Where to treat yourself this month.

Gear for Gardening and Exploring Stylist Picks for Good Living

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Locally Sourced ENTERTAINMENT

Outdoor Living HEALTH + WELLNESS

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE

Artist’s Palette ARTS + CULTURE

Events

Gift Guide HOME + DESIGN

With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online.

Nesting season is upon us.

Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

OCTOBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

LILIANA BRENNER

MICHELE BISHOP

1: Almost too pretty to eat! Johns Creek Beautification Lunch and Learn. 2: Rushing Trading Company provided the beautiful box lunches. 3: Chef Amber Rushing with Rushing Trading Co. showcasing a garden party lunch box. 5: Lovely lunches from Rushing Trading Company.

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ J O H N S C R E E K C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

I F YO U A R E R E A D I N G T H I S . . . S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

ADVERTISE WITH JOHNS CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE™ L E A R N M O R E A T C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / J O H N S C R E E K 8

C I T Y SC E N E

With Craft and Care Welcome to Village Park West Cobb! Here, well appointed residences and bespoke care plans give you the space and the services to enjoy what matters most. Visit us and see how our exceptional care makes Village Park the most active senior community in Marietta!

(470) 518-9531 | 3292 Ernest W Barrett Pkwy NW VillageParkWestCobb.com

WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS. Choosing the right real estate professional is about more than experience, marketing, or negotiating skill. It is about TRUST. It’s about the relationship you build with the person representing one of your most important investments and the confidence that your interests will be protected at every turn. But representation extends far beyond the relationship between an agent and a client. Strong relationships with fellow agents, respected industry professionals, and the local community can influence how effectively your property is presented, how your offer is received, and how successfully challenges are resolved. A respected agent brings more than a name to the table. They bring credibility, connections, and a reputation built through years of integrity, collaboration, and results. At THE REGAN MAKI TEAM, we understand that every conversation, every showing, and every negotiation reflects directly on the clients who have entrusted us to represent them. We combine deep local knowledge, elevated marketing, strategic guidance, and meaningful relationships throughout the real estate community to create an advantage for our clients. Proudly voted BEST OF JOHNS CREEK IN REAL ESTATE by our community two years in a row, we believe that recognition reflects something far greater than sales — it reflects trust. When the representation matters, so does the representative.

The Regan Maki Team

Trusted Locally. Connected Globally. Representing You Exceptionally.

REGAN MAKI COUCH c. 404.304.6452 | o. 404.480.HOME | Regan@AnsleyRE.com CAL COUCH c. 678.725.3942 | o. 770.284.9900 | Cal@AnsleyRE.com ANSLEYRE.COM | 3035 Peachtree Road, Suite 202, Atlanta, GA 30305 | 404.480.HOME All data believed to be accurate but not warranted. Ansley upholds Equal Housing Opportunity & Federal Fair Housing policies. If you have an existing relationship with another brokerage, this is not intended as a solicitation.*Represented Buyer

RESPECTED By Colleagues RECOMMENDED By Peers WHAT OTHER REALTORS® SAY ABOUT PARTNERING WITH US

You’re first class all the way! Very much appreciate everything you did. It was a pleasure working with you! Would love to do it again!

A COLLECTION OF

JOHNS CREEK HOMES LISTED BY THE REGAN MAKI TEAM

THORNHILL offered for $2,200,000

AMMERSEE LAKES offered for $1,450,000

WINFIELD ON THE RIVER* sold for $1,525,000

THE FALLS OF AUTRY MILL sold for $1,599,000

THORNHILL sold for $1,100,000

DONAMERE* sold for $775,000

MEDLOCK BRIDGE sold for $753,000

THE FALLS OF AUTRY MILL offered for $1,175,000

MYERS PARK* offered for $690,000

RIVERWOOD sold for $1,400,000

THE FALLS OF AUTRY MILL sold for $1,315,000

THE FALLS OF AUTRY MILL sold for $1,430,000

BELLMOORE PARK sold for $1,275,000

THE FALLS OF AUTRY MILL* sold for $1,430,000

LET’S PUT YOUR HOME HERE • REGANMAKI.COM

OCTOBER 2026

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Lumina String Ensemble Entertains Johns Creek Meet Lumina String Ensemble, bringing elegant live music to weddings and special events throughout metro Atlanta and beyond. With over 15 years of experience performing at weddings, we provide beautiful, personalized music for ceremonies, cocktail hours and corporate events. From timeless classics to modern favorites, our professional musicians create the perfect atmosphere for every occasion. Learn more at LuminaStringEnsemble.com

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

www.SmileGeorgia.com

Pup's Spa Day Like us, dogs require routine care of their skin, coat, teeth, ears and nails to look and feel their best. At Sparkle, wellness-focused hygiene and salonstyle grooming make it easy to have a clean, healthy and happy dog. Same or next-day appointments. Open seven days a week with convenient drop-off and pick-up. Memberships starting at $55/mo. Clean. Healthy. Happy. Opening this month. Learn more + fetch exclusive limited-time offers. 678.729.8774 SparkleDogcare.com/georgia/ johns-creek/johns-creek

ARE YOU TAKING CARE OF YOUR TEETH AND GUMS? Let our expert team help you make dental health a priority in your routine. We’ve reimagined the dental experience with you in mind! Our space is designed to make every visit feel comfortable, stress-free, and thoughtfully tailored to your needs from the moment you arrive.

YOUR COMFORT, OUR PRIORITY 5805 State Bridge Rd. Suite L Johns Creek, GA 30097

678-883-7687

208 PirkleFerry Rd. Suite A Cumming, GA 30040

770-685-7523

patientservices@smilegeorgia.com B North Atlanta Family Dentistry CONTINUED >

V @teamsmilega OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

Parc at Duluth...

Exceptional Senior Living!

Independent and Assisted Living Serving Families in Duluth, Suwanee and Johns Creek!

Contact us TODAY and schedule a personalized visit to our beautiful community! 3315 Peachtree Ind. Boulevard, Duluth, GA 30096

770.622.6880 parcatduluth.com

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

business monthly CONTINUED

Cauley Creek Park's Daffodils Johns Creek Beautification received a $10,000 check that will be used for the Daffodils4Hope project at Cauley Creek Park. The Atlanta Retailers Association and Platinum Business Alliance were behind the generous donation. Volunteers will continue the mission by digging and planting thousands of bulbs on Dig Day, October 10.

Going Underground in Johns Creek A new 124-foot-long pedestrian tunnel will provide a safe, accessible crossing under Medlock Bridge Road (SR 141), connecting residents and

visitors to the vibrant Town Center area and the new park behind Johns Creek City Hall. This project will be a key part of Johns Creek’s growth and future, providing safe, easy access to the Town Center and enhancing our City’s connectivity.

Innovation Wins for The Boardwalk The Boardwalk at Town Center has earned two prestigious awards: Georgia Chapter American Public Works Association (APWA) Project of the Year (Environmental Category) along with Georgia Chapter of the American Water Resources Association (GAWRA) Innovative Stormwater Project of the Year. Public Works Director Brian O’Connor and Stormwater Manager Roman Carey accepted the awards and were recognized during a City Council meeting.

CONTINUED >

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

business monthly CONTINUED

Get Creative at The Art Center New classes begin this month at The Art Center. In the All-Level Potter's Wheel with Kathy Archambault, beginning students will learn and explore throwing and trimming on the wheel. More advanced students will continue to develop their wheel-throwing skills and concentrate on individual projects and expression. All classes, exhibits, volunteer opportunities and membership options at ItsTheArtCenter.org

Give Your Neighbors

Outdoor Envy «

VETERAN OWNED BUSINESS

Save $500

off any project of $10,000+*

*Mention this ad to receive discount. Contract must be signed by 2/28/21.

Decks •Patios •Pergolas •Fire Features •Sunrooms •Covered Porches

C O M P L I M E N TA RY D E S I G N C O N S U LTAT I O N

Virtual Consultations Available

770-285-1960

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

archadeck.com/alpharetta

New, Old Hotel

Inspired by Lawrenceville’s history, culture and growing culinary scene, the newly opened The Lawrence Hotel blends thoughtful design, personalized service and locally inspired experiences. The 120-room boutique hotel features Bellfire, its signature restaurant, and Old Nick’s, a spirited place for cocktails, along with more than 6,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space and an inviting open-air courtyard that serves as a natural gathering place for guests and locals alike in downtown Lawrenceville.

Your Next Summer Starts This Fall

Pool Renovations

OR Build New!

Plan this fall. Make next summer unforgettable! Renovations: Transform something you have into something you will love again. New Pools: Thoughtful design. Timeless details. Built for the way you live. Outdoor Living: Create a backyard that feels like an extension of your home.

Begin your design this fall and be ready to swim next season!

georgialuxurypools.com | 678.467.6693

GEORGIA

Luxury Pools by David Brown

Scan to email an inquiry:

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

W HY NOT DINE OUT?

PRU Thai Kitchen & Bar

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | EN T E RTAIN ME N T

WHERE TO TREAT YOURSELF THIS MONTH.

This month, we take you on a tour of four local restaurants stirring up seasonal dishes, pouring wine pairings, dreaming up no-proof cocktails and sharing kitchen secrets. We hope next time you dine out, you’ll check out these spots, armed with menu inspiration and local knowledge. Bon Appétit!

NONNA LUCIA ITALIAN

NonnaLuciaItalian.com 11030 Medlock Bridge Rd, Suite 160, Johns Creek Instagram: @nonnaluciaitalian Meet Alexander Richards, Owner & Managing Member 11030 Medlock Bridge Rd, Suite 160 Hot new dish One of the dishes I am most excited to bring to Johns Creek is our Coda alla Vaccinara — a traditional Roman oxtail braised for four hours in San Marzano tomatoes, finished with a touch of dark chocolate and Pecorino Romano. It is one of Rome’s most iconic dishes and one that is very hard to find prepared the traditional way outside of Italy. The inspiration is deeply personal; this is the kind of dish I grew up eating in Rome, the kind you find in a small trattoria in Testaccio where recipes have not changed in generations. We are also excited about our Supplì, crispy Roman rice balls filled with mozzarella, available in three classic Roman flavors. Simple, honest food made from scratch every day. Promising new favorites The three dishes I believe will become our signatures are the Cacio e Pepe, the Carbonara and the Supplì. These are the cornerstones of Roman street food and trattoria culture. What makes them special at Nonna Lucia is that we make everything from scratch: fresh pasta rolled daily, real guanciale, no cream in the Carbonara, no shortcuts anywhere. For a lot of guests in Johns Creek, this will be their first time experiencing these dishes the way they are actually made in Rome. That is something I am really proud to bring to this community. From the bar We are going to carry a house-label wine produced exclusively for Nonna Lucia in Tuscany, by Andrea Cragnotti, a winemaker and dear friend I worked alongside at a restaurant in Rome over a decade ago. Andrea also CONTINUED >

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

produces the extra virgin olive oil we will be using daily in our kitchen and selling directly at the restaurant and through our website. We are also very excited about our truffle program. We will be working with Alessandro Florio, a truffle hunter from the Maremma area in Tuscany, a hardworking father, a craftsman and a great friend. Giving back Nonna Lucia will serve as a rotating art gallery for local Atlanta artists; painters, sculptors and creators of all kinds are welcome to display and sell their work directly inside the restaurant. We are also excited to partner with local schools, starting with Lake Windward Elementary in Alpharetta, a school that has a very special place in our hearts, as my wife Melissa has devoted 20 years of her career there.

Nonna The crew from Lucia Italian

PRU THAI KITCHEN & BAR

PruThaiKitchen.com IG: @pruthaikitchen Meet Chef and co-owner Nahm Stamm and co-owner Amy Phoungphol 2685 Old Milton Pkwy #150, Alpharetta Promising favorites Pad Thai is one of the most recognizable and popular Thai dishes because it is approachable, flavorful and easy to love. The combination of sweet, savory and tangy flavors with perfectly stir-fried rice noodles makes it a great introduction to Thai cuisine. We pay close attention to the balance of flavors and the texture of the noodles, so every bite is satisfying without feeling too heavy. Also, our Panang Curry is a winner because of its rich, savory flavor and incredible fragrance. The curry is deeply aromatic, with the distinctive nuttiness of roasted spices and bold, complex flavors. It is a balance of savory, slightly sweet and medium-spicy flavors. Tom Kha Coconut Soup is one of those dishes that immediately shows what makes Thai cuisine so unique. The fragrant coconut broth is beautifully balanced with bright lime, aromatic lemongrass, galangal and fresh herbs. Top hot dish Our best-selling dish is the PRU Signature Short Rib, a beef short rib slow-braised for four hours until incredibly tender and succulent, then simmered in a fragrant Thai coconut curry with chopped kale. The rich, fall-apart beef absorbs the aromatic curry, creating a deeply savory and comforting dish with layers of bold Thai flavors. From the bar For white wine, our best seller is the Comte de la Chevalière Sancerre Blanc 2024 from the Loire Valley, France. Sancerre is a natural match for Thai food, with its bright acidity, fresh citrus notes and mineral character. We recently added the Belle Glos Pinot Noir 2023 from Monterey/ Santa Lucia Highlands, California. It is a beautiful match for richer Thai dishes. Our Ash & Anise Old Fashioned uses bourbon aromatized with torched star anise and cinnamon, adding a warm, aromatic layer to a classic cocktail. Our Tom Yum Mule puts a Thai spin on the Moscow Mule with lemongrass syrup, Thai chili and kaffir lime leaf. The Lychee Martini and Spicy Tamarita are top-selling cocktails. We recently added two new cocktails. The Mango Muse takes the classic margarita to the next level with luscious mango purée, creating a vibrant, fruity and refreshingly smooth cocktail. Lotus Mist reimagines the classic mojito with fragrant lemongrass, adding a bright, citrusy and aromatic Thai touch. N/A news Our three most popular mocktails are the PRU Coconut Silk, Lychee Refresher and Strawberry Basil Spritz. The PRU Coconut Silk is a tropical, creamy and refreshing blend of coconut milk, pineapple, lime,

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | EN T E RTAIN ME N T

PRU Thai Kitchen & Bar fare

W E HOPE NEXT T I M E YOU DI N E O U T, YO U ’ L L C H E C K OUT THESE SPOTS, ARMED WITH MENU I NSPI R AT ION A N D LO C A L K NOW L E D GE . BON A PPÉTIT! Pretty at PRU CONTINUED > OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

Toastique's temptations, here and below

Dinner at Sugo, here and below.

PRU Thai Kitchen & Bar

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | EN T E RTAIN ME N T

coconut water and agave. It is finished with a beautiful sprinkle of coconut flakes on top, giving it a fun tropical presentation and an extra hint of coconut in every sip. The Lychee Refresher is light, bright and incredibly refreshing, made with lychee juice, lime, grenadine and soda, served with fresh lychee fruit. The Strawberry Basil Spritz is a fresh and vibrant combination of muddled fresh strawberries and basil, simple syrup, lime and soda.

TOASTIQUE JOHNS CREEK

Toastique.com/pages/johns-creek IG @Toastique Meet Steve and Randi Rubin Co-Owners of Toastique Johns Creek 3005 Old Alabama Road Suite 160 Promising Favorites These are fall favorites: Smokey Chipotle Turkey Toast, Mushroom and Burrata Toast, Caramel Apple Chai Latte, Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Waffle, Spiced Pumpkin Smoothie and Cran-Apple Citrus Juice. From the bar We do not serve alcohol at Toastique; however, all of our juices do pair well with alcohol and make great mixes for your home bar. Top hot dishes Our top two toasts are the Avocado Smash and Smoked Salmon. For smoothies, the Superfruit tops the list of favorites, with the Green Machine and Iced Brew coming in as numbers two and three. The Smoothie Bowl favorite? The OG Açaí! Freshness counts All of our produce is sourced locally from Athena Farms. In addition, Toastique has proprietary blends for our housemade granola and our coffee. Our granola is made specifically for Toastique by The Granola Factory. We have both regular and Gluten-free/Nut-free granola. Our coffee is sourced from Lineage Roasters out of Orlando, Fla. Community counts We have supported the local art community through our firstever Toastique Johns Creek mural contest. We sponsor Johns Creek PD’s Battle on the Creek, which benefited the Special Olympics of GA, IRIS Breast Cancer Rehabilitation Center’s Day of Beauty and Mustard Seed 5K, supporting Mustard Seed Communities. Mustard Seed Communities serves abandoned children and young adults with physical and intellectual disabilities and uplifts marginalized communities. Normally, Toastiques hire a professional muralist to come in and do the mural. We decided to open it up to the public and do the first-ever Toastique mural contest. We reached out to local art programs (high school and college), art organizations, put out press releases, etc., looking for local professional and amateur artists to submit designs for the contest. The winner was Azalea Snell, a 19-year old SCAD student.

SUGO

SugoRestaurant.com IG: @SugoRestaurant 10305 Medlock Bridge Rd. Meet Ricardo Soto, Executive Chef

From the restaurant kitchen to the home kitchen Knife skills are the number one skill that home chefs can work on - fast, consistent chopping, proper grip, efficient handling and uniform cuts. These are definitely acquired through hours of knife use in a restaurant kitchen, but they’re extremely useful at home, making dinnertime quicker and easier. Seasoning: Controlling the amount of salt and spices becomes almost automatic, like having a measuring cup in your fingers. Time and heat management: Experience in restaurants cooking various meats and vegetables gives you a better understanding of things like how much food is too much for one pan, whether the oven is hot enough, how long food should cook and rack placement - knowing that the middle rack offers the most even temperature, while the top rack runs hottest. Favorite gear For kitchen towels, I like the Made In Black chef towels from Crate & Barrel and the bar mop towels from Williams Sonoma. What I keep on hand Eggs: You can make anything from breakfast to mayo - it all starts with eggs. Butter: There’s nothing like good unsalted butter. A good cheese: Parmigiano Reggiano, Manchego, Mahón… or all of them. Lemons: It’s incredible what lemons can do for your cooking, from whipping up a salad dressing to garnishing fish. The acidity adds that extra touch to your dishes. Fresh herbs and greens: I typically keep basil and arugula in the fridge - they’re easy and quick to use, adding a fresh, aromatic element to dinner. Olive oil: If I run out, I’m eating out. I use it for cooking, dressings, aioli and marinades. It’s incredibly versatile. Kosher salt: Large and flaky, it’s easier to pick up and “feel” between your fingers, giving you better control over how much you’re adding. The bigger crystals also melt more slowly, making it easier to see how much seasoning you’re using. Dried pasta: Always on hand - boil water, add salt and you’re already on your way to dinner. The specifics come together as you cook. Good vinegar: I personally keep balsamic vinegar. Canned tomatoes: Peeled tomatoes are essential for making sauces or soups, and I love having them around. Meet SUGO’s Zoë Hausmann | Bar Lead From the bar The arancini–wild rice risotto and mushroom fritters with a basil aioli, honey drizzle and romesco sauce is a fixture of Sugo’s antipasti menu. With the arancini, I would recommend our new spirit-free fall drink, the Sugar and Spice Spritz. The Spritz features spiced orange syrup, lemon juice and ginger beer, offering a depth of flavors. The drink balances the sweetness of the orange, richness of fall baking spices, sharpness of the lemon and a delightful bite of the ginger beer for complexity and depth often lacking in spirit-free drinks. The arancini also pairs wonderfully with our Berlucchi ‘61 Franciacorta, a Champagne-style Italian sparkling wine. The delicate bubbles and bright acidity cut through the richness of the fried risotto, and the minerality brings out the best of the pecorino cheese. OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

Dr. Josh Kim & Dr. Gene Chung

Experience Dentistry Like Never Before— Comfortable, Gentle Care at Dentistry at Ivy Falls. 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.

Mon, Tues, Thur 9AM - 5PM • Fri 8AM - 2PM Closed Wednesdays (678) 992-5235 | www.dentistryativyfalls.com 10475 Medlock Bridge Rd. Ste. 501. Johns Creek, GA

$250 OFF

ANY JOB OVER $1,500

A CUT ABOVE THE OTHERS Residential & Commercial • Licensed & Insured • Emergency Services Insurance Work • 24-Hour Service • Free Estimates

Mention City Lifestyle when calling to get a free estimate

Miguel Flores | 470-243-9099 | bluemockingbirdATL.com

NOW ORDER ONLINE FOR HOME DELIVERY

“MEAT10”

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

GE A R F OR G A R DE NING A ND E X P L OR ING ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

O UT D OOR LIV IN G | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

‘Tis the season for heading outdoors. Gardening, stomping in the yard, and exploring nearby trails will require gear. Go shopping, then go outside! Muck Boots Women's Originals Ankle Boot. Full neoprene bootie, 6” upper, legit sole. Comfy, easy on, and so cute. North Face Borealis Water Bottle Holder has adjustable bungee straps to fit most bottles, a phone pocket, secure-zip pocket and adjustable shoulder strap. My go-to all-day sunscreen for all weather. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Invisible Broad Spectrum SPF 50 PA Gap 100% Silk Bandana. To keep the farmer vibes going after you've left the garden. Patagonia Women's All Seasons Bib Work Overalls. Lots of pockets and medium-weight. The real deal. Feetures High Performance Max Cushion Crew Sock. All-day comfort.

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

Fall Penne with Roasted Butternut Squash INGREDIENTS: Servings: 4 • 2 1/4 lbs. butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 3 cups) • 1/4 cup olive oil, divided • kosher salt • 1 pound penne pasta • 3 ounces pancetta, sliced 1/4-inch thick and cut into small dice • 2 shallots, thinly sliced crosswise • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes • 10 fresh sage leaves, coarsely chopped • 1/2 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

M YG H O

DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. 2. Place butternut squash on a rimmed baking sheet and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt. 3. Transfer to the oven and roast until the squash is browned and tender, for about 15 minutes. 4. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Generously salt the water. Add pasta and cook according to package directions. 5. Drain pasta, reserving up to 2 cups of cooking liquid. Set pasta and reserved cooking liquid aside. 6. Meanwhile, heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add pancetta and cook until just crisp, 4 to 5 minutes. Add shallots, crushed red pepper, and sage. Cook until shallots are soft, for 4 to 5 minutes. 7. Add penne and squash and toss gently, adding reserved pasta cooking liquid as necessary to moisten. 8. Add cheese and black pepper, and cook, tossing gently, until pasta and squash are heated through. 9. Serve immediately with more grated cheese, if desired.

R D! ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH + PANCETTA AND SAGE + PENNE = PERFECT FALL PASTA .

ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

introduces

The trusted team behind Atlanta's most memorable celebrations now brings you a new way to plan, create, and enjoy them.

770.667.2555 | AtlantaTentRental.com | AtlantaTentAndEvent.com

TOUCH THE DIFFERENCE. Luxury Closets Start With Premium Materials.

Elevate Your Closet With Texture.

Custom Custom Designed. Designed. Locally Locally Crafted. Crafted. Installed Installed to to Perfection. Perfection. SCAN TO UNLOCK YOUR FREE UPGRADE

closetsdesignstudio.com closetsdesignstudio.com

CUSTOM CLOSETS IN AS LITTLE AS 3 WEEKS

404-594-4690 404-594-4690

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

BUCKHEAD WRITER PENS THRILLER

Do you remember “I’ve Got a Secret?” It was a popular TV program that premiered in 1952. Celebrity panelists tried to determine a contestant’s secret: something that was unusual, amazing, embarrassing or humorous about that person. That’s what I thought while reading “Bless Your Heart,” the first-time thriller written by Leigh Dunlap. The only difference is that all the characters in the book (except possibly one) have a secret.

ARTICLE BY SYLVIA SMALL

BLESS YOUR HEART 30

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Who might be responsible? Was it the old-money queen of Buckhead? The mysterious new writer in town? The drug-dealing trophy wife? The former Georgia football hero and Heisman Trophy winner? This book has plenty of likely suspects with motives ranging from greed to jealousy to marital discord. The question isn’t so much “Who would want Anderson dead?” The bigger question is “Who didn’t want him dead?” Wealth alone cannot buy true happiness for these “Buckhead Betty” characters, who either came from money, married into money or, in the case of Venita, shepherded their husband’s career path into wealth. An unhealthy focus on wealth can lead to harmful choices. Was that the motive, or was it something else? Are there other unlikely suspects and a different motive? Get prepared to be surprised. Leigh Dunlap currently splits her time between South Carolina and the United Kingdom. She told attendees at a recent Buckhead Heritage Speaker Series program that the twin catastrophes of the pandemic and the writer’s strike led her to write her debut novel “Bless Your Heart.” Leigh said every city of any size has the equivalent of a “Buckhead Betty.” Having lived in Buckhead with children long enough, every character in the book is, in a way, a reflection of her experience here.

While I’m usually able to determine the “guilty party” in most novels, I didn’t see this ending coming. Don’t make the mistake of skipping to the last page. Read “Bless Your Heart” and imagine which actors or actresses might play the roles if the book becomes a movie. A native of Los Angeles, Leigh Dunlap studied screenwriting at the University of Southern California. She was the screenwriter for “A Cinderella Story.” Leigh also wrote a film script called “Smash” about a teenage tennis romantic comedy that formed the basis of “16-Love.” “Bless Your Heart” revolves around two Atlanta Police Department detectives working to solve the death at Chastain Park of financial adviser Anderson Tupper, a handsome, charismatic Little League coach and a member of one of Atlanta’s richest families. Additional pressure is being placed on the detectives to solve the death quickly because there is a campaign for Buckhead to secede from the city of Atlanta and take its tax revenue with it.

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

OCTOBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

O C TOBE R 2 N D

Doll Collectors Club Northeast Spruill Oaks Library | 4:30 PM Join resident doll enthusiast for all things doll! From American Girl to Barbie and everything in between, we welcome all dolls old and new! This club will host workshops, show-and-tells, activities and more! This program is intended for ages 15+. O C TOBE R 3 RD

Free Summer Concert Newtown Park | 6:00 PM The Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra will perform. O C TOBE R 1 0 T H

Daffodils4Hope – Annual Planting Event Cauley Creek Park (near the 5k staging area) | 10:00 AM Johns Creek Beautification invites you to the Dig Day Celebration. Come together with volunteers to plant thousands of daffodil bulbs. For more information and to register visit JohnsCreekBeautification.org/daffodils4hope

I F YO U A R E READING THIS... S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

2 OU T OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

Your skin tells your story. Let it tell the right one. True Skin is North Georgia's premier laser tattoo removal studio — a serene, clinical environment built around compassionate, expert care. Using the most advanced multi-wavelength laser technology available, we deliver real results for all skin tones and ink colors, with personalized treatment plans and transparent pricing. No pressure. No judgment. Just a conversation about what's possible.

ADVERTISE WITH JOHNS CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE™ CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/JOHNSCREEK

EVE N TS

678.972.1385 | TrueSkinTattooRemoval.com 4536 Nelson Brogdon Blvd, Buford

Purchasing Your Most Precious Items PROFESSIONAL ESTIMATION AND ACQUISITION COINS • CURRENCY • DIAMONDS • FINE JEWELRY • GEMSTONES • GOLD & PLATINUM • STERLING FLATWARE AND HOLLOWARE • HIGH-END TIMEPIECES

SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. PLEASE CALL 404.990.1192 Amy Barbree, GG • barbreeandco.com • amy@barbreeandco.com • 3666 N Peachtree Rd #400, Chamblee, GA OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J O HN S C R E E K

ARTICLE BY STACY CONDE

Stylish Picks for Good Living

Hu s k mi l k Pot te r y B i rd Mu g

A ndrew Pe arce Wood S alad Bowl

Kara Klimshuk’s pieces are handcrafted in her Atlanta ceramics studio. Colorful stripes, geometric designs, and – in this case – birds elevate the ordinary morning ritual. Huskmilk.com

There’s something about a fresh green salad served in a wood bowl that feels effortlessly chic. Andrew Pearce wood bowls are hand-turned in their Hartland, VT workshop from solid walnut or cherry. AndrewPearce.com

Sa l t verk Hand-harvested in the Icelandic Westfjords using geothermal seawater — the only salt producer in the world to do so — with unique flavors like birch, thyme and licorice. Saltverk.com

Goz n ey A rc X L P i zza Oven Nothing turns a backyard into the neighborhood hangout faster than a wood-fired pizza oven. The Arc XL hits 950°F in under 30 minutes. A pie with a perfect leopard-spotted crust is ready in 60 seconds flat. Gozney.com

G IF T GU ID E | HO M E + DESIGN

D use n Duse n "Eve r yb o dy" S alt and Pe ppe r Grind ers Beechwood grinders, each topped with a playful painted face. A conversation piece and a condiment vessel, standing tall enough to look good on the counter. DusenDusen.com

IMAGINE YOUR HOME, Totally Organized!

40% OFF plus Free Installation and Delivery

Our Best Offer Ever: Take an additional 15% OFF Applies to national list price on any order of $1250 or more. Not valid with any other offer. Free installation with any complete unit order of $750 or more. With incoming order, at time of purchase only. Expires 10/31/2026

Call for a FREE in-home design consultation.

770-206-7420 LM www.closetsbydesign.com HIRING DESIGNERS IN YOUR AREA CALL TO DISCUSS

The frontline of care. The forefront of discovery. emoryhealthcare.org