A Taste of Home
October is one of my favorite months of the year. The crisp fall air finally seeps into the atmosphere, allowing us to enjoy more time outside. In my opinion, October also signifies the start of the holiday season, which means cozy meals and specialty drinks for every occasion.
Food and drinks are so much more than nourishment for people. They are a reason to gather and celebrate the big and small moments in our lives. They give us license to be creative in the kitchen and try out a new recipe. They allow us to carve out time to sit down and engage with one another. I know I love spending time with my family over a meal rehashing our day. Sitting around the kitchen table allows us all to disconnect from work, school and our phones for a while and focus on what’s important to us.
Food and beverages also serve as a reason for people from all walks of life to get together. Whether it’s a nice dinner out with cocktails with your significant other or a full appetizer spread at home watching a game with friends, breaking bread together is meant to warm the heart.
This month, we are excited to learn a little bit about whiskey mixology from our friends at The Whiskey Blendery, who will be at the Whiskey Wobble in Little Elm this month.
Want to enjoy a football game or baseball playoffs while enjoying a delicious meal and cold beverage? G.O.A.T’s Arena Sports Bar just opened its second location in Little Elm and has dozens of TVs for people to kick back, relax and eat a juicy burger or tangy wings.
Of course, what would a fall tailgate be like without the ultimate southern comfort food: barbeque. Our friends and Tender Smokehouse welcome guests inside their doors or can bring the tender brisket and pulled pork to you. Be prepared to wear your stretchy pants afterward.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy night in or a sunny, cool day on one of our community’s many restaurant patios, take a moment to sit back, relax and enjoy the many flavors and tastes our little slice of North Texas has to offer. Happy fall, y’all!
ALEXIS JACKSON, PUBLISHER
@LAKESIDECITYLIFESTYLE
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Alexis Jackson | alexis.jackson@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Gabrielle Bailey | gabrielle.bailey@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Vashti Moore | vashti.moore@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Shannon Spake | shannon.spake@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Shannon Spake, Gabrielle Bailey
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Alexis Jackson, Cameron Cowdrey
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
Now Selling Spiritas Ranch
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Little Elm residents turn out for Farmers Market at the Lawn 2: The city of Aubrey gets ready for the Annual Peanut Festival. 3: Aubrey citizens learn more about city departments and their jobs. 4: Tender Smokehouse sponsored the latest Little Elm Chamber of Commerce meeting. 5: Little Elm residents take a selfie in front of the public library 6: Little Elm ISD advocated for its education foundation. 7: Citizens of Little Elm serve up coffee for their neighbors.
LITTLE
business monthly
Turbo at The Elm Hotel
Turbo at The Elm Hotel, The Lakefront's newest restaurant, has incredible lake views where patrons can stay the night or enjoy a day out. Guests can take the elevator to the fourth floor of The Elm and enjoy coffee, pizza, wine, cocktails and small bites.
The Social Hive
Social media is a powerful asset to drive business growth. The Social Hive helps local businesses by working with their social media pages to help them stand out. A passion project of owner Kristine Barrera, The Social Hive crafts creative content, chooses the right platforms, runs ads to the right audience and monitors analytics. Barrera personally works hand-in-hand with each client to ensure she fully understands their brand, goals and products. Learn more at www.thesocialhive.net.
Christian Brothers Automotive
Christian Brothers Automotive in Aubrey is participating in a National Service Day Oct. 12 for single parents in the area. On this day, single moms and dads in need can receive free services for their cars such as oil changes, diagnostic analyses and more. The event involves donations from local churches, businesses, and organizations that make the day possible. Visit www.cbac.com/aubrey to book an appointment.
Photography by The Elm Hotel
Photography by The Social Hive
Photography by Christian Brothers Automotive | Aubrey
ARTICLE BY GABRIELLE BAILEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXIS JACKSON AND CAMERON COWDREY
In Whiskey We Trust
The Whiskey Wobble is the ultimate tasting and culinary experience
With the crisp bite of fall in the air, October is the time for festivals, enjoying the cooler weather and, of course, delicious cocktails and food. The Whiskey Wobble in Little Elm brings all these autumnal elements together by combining unique whiskey tastings with culinary creations. While North Texas is known for its wineries and breweries, finding a quality whiskey distillery or locale are fewer and far in between. The Whiskey Wobble aims to mainstream whiskey tastings by pairing a whiskey from a local distillery with bites from well-known Little Elm restaurants.
Five distilleries are matched up with five restaurants for a carefully selected pairing. Guests are provided with transportation to each distillery, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Tim Huels and his wife, Sunny, are thrilled to be part of the Whiskey Wobble for the first time this year. They started The Whiskey Blendery while the COVID-19 pandemic was in full swing. The idea of blending custom whiskeys came to Tim after he mixed two ryes he didn’t like, creating a blend he found to be delightful.
He began hosting tastings at his house, asking his friends to bring bottles that have been collecting dust on their shelves. Tim did informal blendings, which got his mind turning on how to make this concept a sustainable business. He decided that The Whiskey Blendery would be a boutique concept where guests can make one-ofa-kind blends specifically catered to their tastes.
“There was nothing on the market that allowed you to do this level of customization and use high-quality whiskey to create a world-class bottle on a small scale,” he said.
The Whiskey Wobble allows participants to enjoy each whiskey and expand their palates by pairing the blends with different foods. One of these specialty whiskeys will be hand-crafted at The Whiskey Blendery. The Huelses have several batch-produced bottles that guests can sample and purchase. The Whiskey Wobble allows them to welcome participants who aren’t Whiskey Blendery members in their doors to see how a blending event works.
“Because we're so small and we don't distribute anywhere, this allows us creative control and focus on the quality of the blends,” Tim explained. “We only make so many bottles for the people in the club. So we've got a lot of different projects going on, and we pick our best ones to release.”
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"We pick our best [whiskeys] to release."
– Tim Huels
While The Whiskey Wobble is meant to bring together North Texas residents who want to try new whiskeys and food, it also serves as a way to support local businesses. Tim, for example, has set up The Whiskey Blendery right outside Oak Point city limits.
The location allows him to connect with his clientele and offer a members-only club that comfortably fits in his space.
“We have some exclusive bottles that are only for our members,” Tim said. “Most of the people who come in have been here before, and we know what kind of whiskey they like and we can have their stuff ready for them.”
Through word of mouth via various whiskey club members and events like the Whiskey Wobble,
The Whiskey Blendery is packed on Fridays and Saturdays for private whiskey blending events. Heuls already is looking into expanding the blendery’s space and exploring more whiskey-based projects due to increased interest.
“Right now, somebody would have to leave for there to be a spot open,” Tim said of the blendery’s membership capacity.
The Whiskey Wobble will begin at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19, Check-ins will start at 3:45 p.m. at The Lawn at 125 Main Street in Little Elm. Guests must be 21 or older to participate and must show identification. Tickets can be purchased at business littleelmchamber.com/events .
The Whiskey Wobble has five participating distilleries, which are matched with five restaurants based on curated menus.
The distilleries and restaurants are:
• The Whiskey Blendery and The Lawn at the Lakefront
• 1845 Distilling and Barracruda
• Ironroot Republic Distilling and Tender Smokehouse
• Bendt Distilling Co. and The Elm Hotel
• Woodford Reserve and Towers Tap House
Ultimate SportsWatching Experience
Enjoy box seating for your favorite sporting events without the hassle
ARTICLE BY SHANNON SPAKE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXIS JACKSON AND CAMERON COWDREY
There’s something special about game day—the excitement, the camaraderie and the shared thrill of cheering for a favorite team. But what if people could capture that stadium atmosphere every time they watch a game without the hassle of tickets, traveling and parking?
Enter G.O.A.T’s Arena Sports Bar, the brainchild of a group of college comrades who envisioned an arena-style sports bar that brings the thrill of live sports to local neighborhoods. With locations in both Frisco
and Fairview, G.O.A.T's Arena quickly is becoming the go-to spot for sports fans looking to elevate their game day experience.
The founders of G.O.A.T's set out to create more than just a place to watch a game—they aimed to craft an elevated experience for sports enthusiasts. From the moment guests walk in, they’re greeted by an atmosphere buzzing with energy. The two-story venue is designed to immerse guests in the excitement and anticipation of a sports arena. Boasting the largest bigscreen TV in Texas, the main wall of televisions commands the space and draws people into the action, ensuring that every seat is offered a prime view. No matter where someone sits, they will never miss a play.
G.O.A.T's Arena takes the concept of a sports bar to the next level by offering an unmatched, immersive atmosphere. Both stories provide plenty of bird’s-eye seating and individual lawn
style seats upstairs with private screens, so everyone can enjoy an unobstructed view of the game from any angle. Whether it’s a crucial playoff game, a championship match or a regular-season showdown, the atmosphere at G.O.A.T's Arena makes every game feel like the biggest event of the year.
But the experience doesn’t stop with the visuals. G.O.A.T's Arena brings the sound and excitement of a live stadium in its space. Live DJs keep the energy high, playing music that gets the crowd pumped and ready to cheer on their teams. The roar of the fans, the excitement of the plays and the pulse-pounding music create a unique sports bar atmosphere.
However, what truly sets G.O.A.T's Arena apart from other sports bars is the food.
“We wanted to offer an exciting elevated culinary experience for our guests. With our amazing chef, the menu and quality of food are exceptional, something we are all very proud of,” shared co-owner Rohith Rallagudem.
This isn’t just standard bar food fare—G.O.A.T's Arena offers a culinary experience designed to delight all taste buds. Master Chef Alexander Petillo, an epicurean genius known for his innovative dishes and impeccable artistry, has crafted a menu that goes far beyond basic bar food offerings. Start a game day experience with one of the mouth-watering appetizers, like Shrimp Kaboom or Dirty Nachos, each dish prepared with Chef Petillo’s signature flair. The flatbreads, with options like classic Margherita or hearty BBQ chicken, are perfect for sharing with friends.
For something more substantial, try one of the burgers, each one crafted to perfection with
"With our amazing chef, the menu and quality of food are exceptional, [G.O.A.T's is] something we are all very proud of.”
— G.O.A.T's co-owner
Rohith Rallagudem
high-quality ingredients and served with crispy, golden fries. And don’t forget about the salads— Chef Petillo’s take on these healthy options makes them just as satisfying as the more indulgent items on the menu.
The culinary delights don’t end there. G.O.A.T's Arena also offers a weekend brunch that has become a must-try for locals and visitors alike. From fluffy pancakes to savory omelets, the brunch menu is filled with dishes sure to start any weekend off right. Pair meals with a mimosa or a Bloody Mary, making the perfect recipe for a winning brunch experience.
The giant bar houses spirits, wines and a long row of tapped beer, offering a drink for everyone. Whether a sports fan is feeling a local craft beer or a high-end cocktail, G.O.A.T's has a large variety of beverages on its cocktail menu.
G.O.A.T's Arena isn’t just a place to watch the game—it’s a hub of entertainment for the whole family. Whether someone is a die-hard sports fan
or looking for a great night out, there’s always something happening at G.O.A.T’s. Theme nights like Music Bingo, Latin Nights and EDM Nights cater to a wide range of interests and something for everyone.
However, it’s important to note that UFC Fight Nights at G.O.A.T's Arena are reserved for adults only, with admission limited to those 21 and up due to the intense nature of the event. This allows for a more focused and spirited environment, ensuring fans can fully immerse themselves in the action.
Beyond the games, G.O.A.T's Arena offers a variety of events and activities that keep the fun going long after the final whistle. Post-game parties ensure the celebration doesn’t stop. With music, drinks, and a lively crowd, G.O.A.T’s is the perfect place to cap off an exciting game day experience.
For those planning a celebration, G.O.A.T's Arena is the ideal venue for private parties. Whether it’s a birthday, a fantasy sports draft, a corporate event or a night out with friends, G.O.A.T’s offers customizable
packages tailored to the group’s size and desires. With its unbeatable atmosphere, delicious food and top-notch service, G.O.A.T's Arena ensures all events will be one to remember.
Both the Fairview and Frisco locations stay open later on the weekends, as well, ensuring fans don't miss crucial plays from those late-night games. G.O.A.T's opens at 11 a.m. and stays open until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
This concept has grown so popular that G.O.A.T's Arena is already exploring franchise opportunities and opening more concepts in North Texas, bringing the experience to even more fans and making these sports bars The Greatest of All Time.
“We wanted to offer an exciting elevated culinary experience for our guests."
— G.O.A.T's co-owner
A SLOW-SMOKED
RECIPE FOR SUCCESS
HOW ONE LOCAL BARBEQUE GEM IS STANDING OUT IN NORTH TEXAS
ARTICLE BY SHANNON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXIS
AND
When a family-owned business thrives in the competitive world of Texas barbeque, they are onto something. Tender Smokehouse BBQ, a beloved staple in North Texas, is gearing up to open its fifth location, and the owners’ journey is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality, community and faith.
Founded on the principles of hard work, dedication and a deep sense of purpose, Tender Smokehouse attributes its success
SPAKE
JACKSON
CAMERON COWDREY
to four key elements, says owners Katrina Hunter and Audrea Weimer:
God’s favor: The owners of Tender Smokehouse humbly recognize the blessings they’ve received along the way, crediting their success to divine favor and guidance.
Dedicated Employees: Behind every great BBQ joint is a team of passionate individuals who take pride in their craft. At Tender Smokehouse, the employees are more than just workers—they're family. Their dedication shines through in every dish served.
Loyal Customers: Tender Smokehouse has built a loyal customer base that spans
multiple towns in North Texas. It is this community support that fuels their growth and inspires them to keep pushing forward. The customers aren’t just patrons—they're a part of the Tender family.
Fresh, Consistent, Scratch-Made Food and Exceptional Service: What keeps customers coming back time and again is the high quality of the food and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. At Tender, everything is made from scratch, ensuring freshness in every bite. Combined with exceptional service, it's no wonder they're expanding.
Tender Smokehouse is locally and family-owned, offering hand-crafted BBQ and sides that are true to the Lonestar State.
Their Texas roots run deep and they strive to source locally as much as possible. The heart of Tender rings true throughout all their locations, with each having its unique personality but maintaining consistent food and service.
Currently, Tender Smokehouse has locations in Celina, Frisco, Aubrey and Little Elm with its fifth location opening soon in Whitesboro.
For those who are first-timers, the Tender team highly recommends their signature sandwich, the “Grand Slam.” This mouth-watering creation is loaded with slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, sausage and is topped with a hearty scoop of their
"WE’RE COMMITTED TO BEING MORE THAN JUST A RESTAURANT."
legendary barbeque beans, all nestled between buttery, crisp Texas toast and crowned with a “fall-off-the-bone” pork rib. It’s a true taste of Texas barbeque at its finest.
Tender Smokehouse is more than just a restaurant; the owners are dedicated to the communities they serve, giving back to the towns and patrons that has supported them from the beginning. The restaurant proudly partners with local organizations, participates in community events and contributes to causes that make a difference.
“Whether it’s through hosting fundraisers, sponsoring schools or donating meals to those in need, we’re committed to being
more than just a restaurant–we’re here to help our community thrive,” Katrina and Audrea said.
While Tender Smokehouse has become a wildly popular staple in its communities, the owners remain cautious about franchising. Their commitment to maintaining consistent quality and service is paramount. As they prepare to open their Whitesboro location and explore future expansions in North Texas, their focus remains on preserving the essence of what makes Tender Smokehouse special.
In a world where success can often lead to compromise, Tender Smokehouse stands out as a beacon of integrity, passion, and community spirit. The atmosphere at Tender is warm and inviting, the perfect setting for enjoying some great Texas barbeque.
The food is tender, flavorful, and perfectly smoky while the staff is friendly, attentive and clearly passionate about the food they serve. Whether someone is a meat connoisseur or a person who appreciates delicious food, Tender Smokehouse is a must-visit gem in North Texas.
SER VI NG UP S OUP
CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
This hearty chicken noodle soup is the perfect comfort food that is packed with nutritious goodness. This pairs perfectly with homemade beer bread or a sourdough loaf.
INGREDIENTS:
• 8 cups chicken broth (add more if desired)
• Whole fryer chicken, cut in chunks or shredded
• 5 celery stalks, sliced
• 8 carrots, sliced
• ½ onion diced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• ¼ cup half and half (optional)
• 1 package egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
In a large stock pot, add 8 cups of chicken broth. Dice carrots, celery and onion and add to the broth. Bring to a boil, and reduce to medium heat until the vegetables are soft. In the meantime, skin and cube 1 whole fryer chicken and add to the stock pot. Next, add egg noodles (frozen Reames homemade egg noodles are my favorite) and let boil until noodles are cooked. Add butter, half and half, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer on low until ready to serve.
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ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
TOMATO BASIL SOUP
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cans diced tomatoes
• 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (or alternatively, 1 stick butter)
• ½ cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
This classic tomato basil soup is easy and quick to make and is the perfect way to get the rustic, tangy and savory flavors of this italian dish.
DIRECTIONS:
Toss the butter or olive oil in the pan. Add onion, and saute until the onion is translucent and soft. Add minced garlic, and saute for 2 minutes. Next, add canned tomatoes and simmer. Transfer to a blender, and puree until smooth. Add the fresh basil and heavy cream. Transfer mixture back to the pan to thoroughly heat, and salt and pepper to taste. Top with fresh parmesan and chopped basil, and serve with toasted italian bread.
CREAMY BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP
For a healthy dose of vitamin A, enjoy this creamy soup that boasts a robust, rich butternut flavor. For an easier assembly buy pre-cut butternut squash.
INGREDIENTS:
• 6 cups cubed butternut squash
• 1 small onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups water
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon salt
• Pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
Combine the chopped squash, onion, garlic and red pepper, and place in a large pot. Add water, and bring to a boil. Add salt and simmer for about 30 minutes. Cool and blend mixture in a blender until smooth. Transfer mixture back to pot and add heavy whipping cream and fresh thyme. Pepper to taste. Garnish with pepitas and fresh herbs.
OCTOBER 2024
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
OCTOBER 4TH
Jett Platt
Fortunata Winery | 6:30 PM
Enjoy live music from one-man show Jett Platt as he sings a variety of music on guitar and piano. Patrons can enjoy a glass of wine, wood-fire pizzas, charcuterie boards and other snacks while kicking back to Platt’s music. 2297 FM-2931 | Aubrey
OCTOBER 4TH
Nightmare on Little
Elm Street
2177 Kiowa Street, Little Elm | 6:00 PM
Voted one of the best haunted house entertainment concepts in the Dallas area, Nightmare on Little Elm Street is an immersive haunted house experience that features a graveyard, Instagrammable props and locations for pictures, and plenty of scares for all. A portion of ticket sales will be donated to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
OCTOBER 5TH
Annual Peanut Festival
301 S Main St. | Aubrey | 10:00 AM
The city of Aubrey is hosting its 38th Annual Peanut Festival with with a parade, booths of clothes, crafts, baked goods, jewelry, food trucks, live music, a free kid zone, petting zoo and more. Guests who stop by the city of Aubrey’s booth will receive free tickets for kids to get an ice cream and other frozen treats.
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Chatham Reserve
10001 Chatham Dr, Aubrey, Texas 76227
Located 2 miles north of Highway 380 off Main Street in Aubrey.
ChathamReserve@OliviaClarkeHomes.com
OCTOBER 13TH
Mustang Sally Productions Car Show
123 Main Street | Little Elm | 10:00 AM
Mustang Sally Productions presents a full classic car show that includes trucks and motorcycles. Patrons can enjoy food as they check out cars from all eras. MSP will present awards for a variety of categories, including Best of Show prizes. Registration for a car is $20 while spectators have free admission.
OCTOBER 25TH
Oak Point DPS Trunk or Treat
Jake’s Place Park | 6:00 PM
The Oak Point Department of Safety welcomes kids of all ages to don their Halloween costumes and join its Trunk or Treat at Jake’s Park Place. Games, candy and other treats will be provided as the town’s police and fire departments show out. 100 Naylor Road | Oak Point
OCTOBER 31ST
Halloween Hayride
Lakewood Village Town Hall | 6:00 PM
Kids of all ages are welcome to join the city of Lakewood Village for its Halloween Hayride. Trailers will take kids around town to trick or treat before safely bringing them back to town hall. 100 Highridge Drive | Lakewood Village
