A Universal Language
Food, much like photography, is a universal language. A perfectly plated Michelin-starred meal in the South of France, a rustic bowl of handmade pasta in Tuscany, or a thoughtfully crafted dish in Kansas City—all are compositions that tell a story. The ingredients may change, the settings may shift, but the frame is always the same—food bringing people together, creating moments worth remembering.
This past summer, my husband and I traveled to the South of France and drove along the French Riviera to Tuscany, where we dined at Michelin-starred restaurants and indulged in each other’s company. Every dish felt like a work of art lingering for hours over wine, Aperol spritzes and limoncello. Across so many of our travels, I’ve been struck by the way dining transforms into a ritual—the rhythm of courses, the anticipation of the next glass and the conversations that stretch into the night.
But the truth is, we don’t have to fly across the ocean to experience that sense of wonder at the table. In Kansas City, our very own food scene rivals the best. Evenings at NOKA, Café Provence, Novel, Restaurant 1900 and Farina have given us meals as exquisite and memorable as the ones we’ve shared in Chicago, New York, Sedona, Napa, Paris and Rome. But what I treasure most is the simple truth that the most special meals aren’t only about the plates in front of us or where we are in the world—they’re about who we share them with.
Whether it’s a family-owned bistro on a cobblestone street in Trastavere or a table at one of Kansas City’s favorite Italian restaurants, Lazia, the heart of the experience is the same. Food and wine bring us closer, allowing us to pause, reflect, and connect. The table, wherever it may be, is always where life feels the fullest.
EMMALEE RATHSAM, CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER @MISSIONHILLSCITYLIFESTYLE
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Sarah Johns | sarah.johns@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Victoria Moore | victoria.moore@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Rebecca Spears | rebecca.spears@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Sarah Elise Seidel | sarahelise.seidel@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Emmalee Rathsam | emmalee@emmaleerathsam.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Rita Strickland | rita.strickland@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Rick Robards, Becca Spears, Bev Weidner
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, Jerry Chavez Photography, Becca Spears, Bev Weidner
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
BY EMMALEE RATHSAM
At Leyla Sufi Skin, we guide you past the surface. Our approach blends corrective treatments with education on diet, lifestyle, and daily rituals because true skin health starts within. Together, we create lasting change that radiates inside and out.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Genesis Kansas City displayed luxury vehicles as the perfect backdrop on a beautiful Saturday. 3: The event was called RISE, which represented the rooftop ride and strength experience. 4: Owner of Native Atlas Alexia Wambua displayed her incredible line of locally made skin products. 5: Functional, local activewear brand FITBRIT outfitted the entire Mojo team for this ride. 6: Mojo Cycling Studio hosted their first ever rooftop fitness event on the Country Club Plaza.
Jewells Jamzz tells a story through food
What began as too many blackberries in the kitchen has grown into a vibrant local brand offering handcrafted jams, charcuterie, and private chef experiences. Each jar and grazing board is made with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from Kansas farmers and markets, blending classic flavors with unexpected twists. Whether it’s a wedding, a neighborhood gathering, or breakfast at home, Jewell’s Jamzz brings people together through creativity, community, and deliciously memorable bites. Visit jewellsjamzz.com to see more.
Photography by Becca Spears
OCTOBER IS
fall events at aqua penny’s
Cafe Romanov
A Five-Course Dinner with Wine & Vodka Pairings
Chef Penny Mufuka and Garrick Mallery come together to create an experience where fiery Thailand soul meets the cold elegance of Eastern Europe. Two distant worlds combine for one incredible evening.
Thursday, October 9th
7:00 pm
$135 per person*
*Includes gratuity.
OYSTERS:
A Tasting Class with Chef Brooks Mackender
October 28th, November 5th & November 12th + BONUS
Caviar Class November 19th
Wednesdays 6:00 to 8:00 pm
The Oyster Bar in Aqua Penny’s
Single Ticket $80* (1 oyster class)
Ticket Combo $220* (3 oyster classes)
Caviar Class $120* (1 class)
These experiences are limited to 16 people.
*Must be 21 or over with valid ID.
Tea
A menu to DIE and UN-DIE for. Seats are limited, and the spirits say that seats fill up fast, so get your tickets today!
Saturday, November 1st 11:30 am until 2:00 pm
$55 per person*
*Includes gratuity.
Fall Wine Pairings
SPIRITS HA N D SELECTS SEA
There is an art to creating harmony between the glass and the plate. Pairing unique wines with gourmet-style cooking, Gomer’s Fine Wine and Spirits has uncovered unique, seasonal combinations that transform meals into unforgettable experiences. This fall, do not waste time perusing the aisle for the perfect bottle. Grab this list and discover what combination might be your favorite!
ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE AND RICK ROBARDS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Rombauer Carneros Chardonnay
Aromas of ripe yellow peach, melon, and chamomile all framed by freshly baked pie crust. The palate is bright with flavors of nectarine, followed by a subtle spice, and lively acidity. The finish leaves you wanting more.
PAIRING:
Spring greens with radish, homemade croutons, and classic vinaigrette. “Ina Garten’s” roast chicken. Fresh strawberries and sweet cream.
Flowers Sonoma Chardonnay
This wine is a swirl of golden sunshine in the glass, with aromas of tangy tangerine, orange blossom and sweet cinnamon on the nose. Bright and balanced, the palate has lovely precision and freshness.
PAIRING:
Seared sea scallops, risotto with asparagus and lemon zest. Fresh peaches and Greek yogurt drizzled with hot honey and chopped walnuts.
Cade Napa
Sauvignon Blanc
Aromas of pear, yellow apple, honeysuckle, white peach, mango, pineapple, guava, and tropical fruits. On the palate, you will enjoy flavors of lemon, green apple, Bartlett pear, grapefruit, honeydew melon, lemon custard, and passion fruit. The wine finishes with a vibrant acidity and a beautiful creamy texture.
PAIRING:
Baked Endives au Jambon served over Basmati rice. buttered English peas. toasted baguette with goat cheese. Amaretto macarons.
White Walnut Estate “Worden Hill” Pinot Noir
Great tension and acidity accompany raspberries and cherries in this beautifully balanced wine. Aromas of cinnamon, clove, and orange zest open up on the palate and expand to dark plums and black cherries. Moderate tannins give it a silky mouthfeel.
PAIRING:
Reverse seared Heritage Porterhouse pork chop, sauteed mélange of mushrooms with shallots and fresh thyme. Haricots verts. Baked apple tart.
OTHER WINES NOT PICTURED:
Majuscule Mount Veeder Cabernet Franc
Aromas of vibrant blue and black fruits leap from the glass, gracefully intertwined with notes of baking spice. The palate is incredibly smooth, revealing rich and complex fruit flavors complemented by nuanced hints of baked bread, warm cinnamon, subtle oak, and delicate minerality. All these elements seamlessly integrate, culminating in a beautifully lingering and memorable finish.
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label
An aromatic profile dominated by notes of white and yellow fruits like pear, apple, and peach. Hints of citrus fruits like mandarin and grapefruit blend harmoniously with gourmand aromas of brioche.
Far Niente Napa Cabernet Sauvignon
An elegant perfume of mixed berries, baking spice, dried lavender and thyme. These open onto a full palate layered with expansive mixed berry, black tea, toasted oak and spice flavors. Focused and fresh, fine-grained tannins support the wine throughout, while the finish is silky, long and lifted.
In honor of its founder, the Ed “Gomer” Moody Tasting Room located within the 103rd Street and State Line Road store welcomes its customers to sip, savor, and discover unique flavors in a relaxed, welcoming space.
The tasting room is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 4-8:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 2-6:00 p.m. with tasting signups available online: gomers103.com/tasting-room/
From left to right: Jaxson Hinton and his father and Gomer's owner, Gary Hinton.
Do You Dread Walking Your Dog?
Here’s how I can help him learn to remain calm on walks when he’s near other dogs: I expose him to the sight of another dog from a great distance and highly reward him when he doesn’t react. Very slowly, I gradually close the distance where he can be near an unfamiliar dog and not spiral out of control. If your dog could benefit from this training, contact me!
CLEAN. COMPASSIONATE. HOLISTIC HEALING. FROM YOUR MOUTH TO
YOUR WHOLE BEING.
JOHN HUMPHREY JR DDS
JOHN HUMPHREY JR DDS
Meet Dr. Humphrey—A devoted husband and proud father of three, Dr. Humphrey brings more than 20 years of experience as a board-certified Biological Dentist. He is passionate about helping clients achieve total body wellness through a holistic and biological approach to oral health. Known for his warm, compassionate care, Dr. Humphrey and his team create an experience that is empowering for everyone who walks through his doors.
Dr. Humphrey has been caring for clients since 2003, committing himself to developing a depth of knowledge in holistic care. His passion lies is seeing how biological dentistry can contribute to optimal health and total body wellness.
CHEF Amante Domingo
One of Kansas City’s most beloved restaurateurs shares the story behind NOKA
I met Chef and Restaurateur Amante Domingo on a Monday, the industry’s day off. I walked into the dimly lit, primitive but elegant space, and I heard a friendly “hello” with a smile from across the restaurant.
His greeting was so warm, like we had been friends for years, even though we were meeting for the first time. I later observed him treat each one of his cooks and employees with the same kindness and engagement.
He was wearing a white t-shirt and denim, with a 1950s Navajo Squash blossom necklace, and it all paired perfectly with his tattoos. We sat down, and he offered me a Powerade. I laughed at the randomness of being offered Powerade by one of the city’s top chefs, and he explained that he keeps it on tap for his line cooks. We sat and sipped blue Powerade out of glasses while he began to tell me the story of NOKA.
“Noka means farmer after my dad, and all of this wood and metal is from the barn that was in the family for over two hundred years,” he said as he gestured to the space around us that felt rustic and refined at the same time.
It became clear early in our conversation that this space was deeply personal, almost like it was sacred.
“I grew up in Saint Joseph on an organic farm,” Amante began. “And we worked every morning. I had to milk goats before I went to school, and we worked hard to make a farmto-table, sustainable living growing up.”
He talked about his mother, a California native, spiritual healer, painter, and art director, who worked with a long list of celebrities.
“First and foremost, one of the biggest parts of who I am is a small glimpse of my mother,” he said. “And her really being the person that she decided that she came here to be, and having that as an example always led me.”
Amante recalled early formative memories. The pain of losing his birth father at the age of seven, and how his mother later met his stepfather at a spiritual healing conference, where they fell in love.
“We packed up like the Jetsons,” he said with a big smile. “Literally, like a trailer on the back of a moving truck and us crammed in the back…moved to St. Joe, where there was a family farm on my stepdad’s side of the family.”
CONTINUED >
It was in St. Joe that his parents purchased and operated a vegetarian farmto-table restaurant.
“They were so far ahead of their time,” he said. “They were on the cover of the St. Joe News Press doing yoga, and my dad was doing upward dog into the camera. And all the kids the next day in elementary school called me “yoga boy. I wore essential oils as a kid…and I thought that was so traumatic. But looking back on it, they were just 30 years ahead of their time.”
Amante shared how he went to see his dad in the hospital shortly before he passed away.
His dad kept saying there was a sushi restaurant that he wanted to take him to. Amanti promised that they would go when his dad was out of the hospital. That was their last conversation. That conversation became the inspiration for Amanti’s next restaurant concept.
With that and the physical materials from his dad’s barn, he built NOKA with his own hands and with the help of his managers, over the course of nine months. Everything in the space is very much his dad’s taste, like the Tibetan tiger rug hanging over the stairs.
A hearty and seasonally-driven daytime wood-fired Grill. Offering famously good catering.
NOKA
Japanese inspired cuisine, stylishly presented for a beautiful, warm, and hospitable dining experience.
LE CHAMPION
Coffee bar and lounge with a vintage Ralph Lauren feel and upscale bar bites and cocktails.
Amante Domingo is the creator and owner of three beloved Kansas City restaurants: THE RUSSELL
“That’s kind of our mantra ...Wabi-Sabi is the Japanese ideal that things are perfectly imperfect, and always changing and growing.”
Hanging near the bar is a flag by local fiber artist Taylor Triano that reads, Wabi Sabi Kansas City.
“That’s kind of our mantra,” Amante explained. “ Wabi-Sabi is the Japanese ideal that things are perfectly imperfect, and always changing and growing.”
He described it using an example of a perfectly shaped clay pot. When it is touched and impacted by a person, it is thrown slightly out of balance. But that is what gives the pot its character. That is Wabi-Sabi . Building a restaurant out of 150-year-old wood, when he couldn’t get a straight cut, forced him to embrace Wabi-Sabi.
NOKA’s interior reflects the beauty of “perfectly imperfect,” and the food does as well. Amante spoke with confidence about how he learned to celebrate the theme of Japanese cuisine without feeling the need to make it strictly and authentically Japanese. Instead, over time, the menu has become a unique expression of Japanese cuisine influenced by Kansas City, our regional tastes, and his own style.
“Noka is a Japanese word, but it’s not Japanese food. It’s an expression,” he said. “How do you take these classics, and then how do you put your own style on them?”
My experience of NOKA was much like my first impression of the Chef behind it- interesting, inspiring, exciting, and beautiful, but also completely disarming and approachable.
Imagine A Day Gala
Imagine a day when every person feels safe in their home and domestic violence is a thing of the past. This reality is what Newhouse KC strives for every single day with every person they serve. This shelter is more than just a building. It is a network of people and resources designed not only to keep survivors safe, but also to help them thrive!
Each year, Newhouse KC hosts three main fundraising events, including the Imagine A Day Gala, which allows the Kansas City community the opportunity to be a part of its mission.
The 2025 Gala promises a gourmet dinner, live and silent auctions, live entertainment, and inspirational messages from survivors. This year’s event will be held at the Loews Hotel on Saturday, November 8. Tickets can be purchased online at newhousekc.org/imagine-a-day-gala/
Newhouse KC believes a healthy community is key in healthy home relationships
ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JERRY CHAVEZ
PHOTOGRAPHY
October is domestic violence awareness month, and Newhouse KC CEO Courtney Thomas believes the end of domestic violence starts with the support of the community.
“We know that when communities are healthy, people thrive. What makes a healthy community is ensuring that all people, not just certain people, but all people have access to services.”
Giving back does not have to be in a large, lump sum. Thomas wants the community to know that even small donations make a huge difference in the lives of survivors and their families.
“We are trying to emphasize monthly donations. Even if it is five, ten, or 25 dollars, it provides bedtime snacks for children. It funds a portion of a therapy session. It helps us pay court costs and program support. Any step you take could literally save a life,” she said.
If you want to learn more about the mission of Newhouse KC and how to get involved, visit newhousekc.org/
Volunteering opportunities are also available.
An ageless spirit lives within all of us. Addington Place of Prairie Village is the perfect place to discover youthful energy and forge meaningful connections with kindred souls. Our vibrant Assisted Living and Memory Care community offers chef-prepared, homestyle dining, personalized care, and a vibrant social calendar featuring weekly happy hours with live music and scenic walks in the park, ensuring hearts stay forever young and days brim with excitement. Join Addington Place of Prairie Village, where life becomes a celebration of the young at heart.
Fall Harvest Cheeseboard
BECOME A GRAZING GURU AS BEV GUIDES YOU THROUGH CREATING THE PERFECT FALL SNACK
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEV WEIDNER
‘Tis the season for cheeseboards! And by that I mean it’s always the season for cheeseboards. I think going for a mix of savory and sweet is key. Add some dark chocolate pieces if you want. A honeycomb would be divine. A fig jam or butter also pimp. Obviously since this was a Fall Harvest board, I went with warmer colors and accents. Honestly, just keep it simple, make it yours and you can’t screw it up.
ingredients
• 1 (6 oz) wedge Roth Grand Cru cheese, cut into slices (have more on hand, this will run out!)
• 1 (6 oz) wedge Roth Prairie Sunset cheese, cut into slices
• 1/2 wedge Roth Buttermilk Blue cheese, slightly crumbled on the board (have the other half for if you run out)
• Thinly sliced prosciutto
• A hard salami, sliced
• Sardines
• Dried or fresh figs
• A pear, thinly sliced
• Dried fruit like mango or apricots
• Savory crackers
• Candied pecans
• Pepitas
• Olives
• Cornichons
• Orange slices
• Any greenery to tie it together (pine clippings, eucalyptus leaves, flowers with autumnal colors)
directions
Start with the cheeses in the center and build out! Finish with seasonal beverages like ciders, beers and wine! Have fun with it. Anything goes!
Follow Bev on Instagram: @bevcooks You can also find her blog online: bevcooks.com
Sarah turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Mission Hills City Lifestyle
Published by Sarah Loved by Mission Hills
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
How To Stay Festive And Healthy? Sure Thing
Halloween is typically filled to the brim with salt, sugar and carbs. It can be hard to stay on the nutrition wagon during spooky season, but there are plenty of fun ways to add a festive spin to favorite healthy dishes.
pumpkin FRUIT BOWL
With luck finding a melon or watermelon at the store, simply carve it like a jack-o-lantern and make the mouth large enough to have other sliced fruit emerging, such as cut pineapple, sliced grapes and apple chunks. Along the side, peel mini oranges and add a green stem to mimic pumpkins.
spooky CHARCUTERIE
These fan favorite boards can easily be kept healthy with some additions. Make any treat spooky with edible eyeballs. Adding them to a small snack such as mini bell peppers or grapes and strawberries is a fun way to stay on theme without sacrificing a healthy streak. Eyeball salami rolls also can be added, starting first with a green olive in the center, surrounded by a roll of mozzarella cheese and then surrounded by salami or even prosciutto.
stuffed PEPPERS
This fall staple easily can be incorporated into a fall gathering or Halloween night by carving jacko-lantern faces in orange peppers, and resuming a favorite recipe from there. Serving bread on the side? Use a skull or pumpkin shaped cookie cutter to re-shape it.
ghostly DIP
Hummus and pitas can be made scary in no time. Use a ghost shaped cookie cutter to shape pita bread, lightly toast and serve with red pepper hummus, which is usually orange in color.
jack-o-lantern VEGGIE TRAY
The easiest bet for a quick and healthy Halloween treat? You can’t go wrong with a veggie tray shaped like a jack-o-lantern. Use baby carrots as the base, and cucumber or celery to shape the mouth and stem. The eyes? Two round bowls of veggie dip.
Fall
events
OCTOBER 3RD – 4TH
KC Oktoberfest
Crown Center | 5:00 PM
KC Oktoberfest, presented by Kansas City Bier Company, is a two-day festival celebrating German-style bier, food, and entertainment at Crown Center in downtown Kansas City. Modeled after Munich’s famous Oktoberfest, it’s the city’s largest traditional celebration. In 2024, over 16,000 guests enjoyed authentic bier, Bavarian and American cuisine, live music, games, and family-friendly fun. Secure tickets by visiting: kcoktoberfest.com/
OCTOBER 4TH – 5TH
Weston Applefest
Main Street - Weston, MO | 10:00 AM
Celebrate the harvest at Historic Weston’s Applefest, the region’s biggest autumn tradition! Enjoy Apple Alley, treats, a lively apple-themed parade, crafters, artisans, kids’ games, and live music. Watch apple butter made the old-fashioned way, explore exhibits, and savor apple dumplings at the Christian Church. Learn more by visiting: westonmo.com/applefest2024
OCTOBER 11TH
Brew at the Zoo and Wine Too
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium | 6:30 PM
Sip, savor, and stroll at Brew at the Zoo & Wine Too! This 21+ event features unlimited samples from 30+ local breweries and wineries, food trucks, and live music—plus entry to GloWild, an enchanting lantern festival. Proceeds support wildlife conservation, spotlighting the rhinoceros hornbill. For tickets to unforgettable flavors, glowing art, and a night under the stars, visit: kansascityzoo.org/brew-at-the-zoo/
OCTOBER 20TH
Mobile Music Box Concert
Loose Park Garden Center | 6:00 PM
Take the entire family to a free outdoor chamber music concert with the Kansas City Symphony’s Mobile Music Box at Loose Park Garden Center! This unique stage brings beautiful live performances into neighborhoods across the metro, connecting communities through music. Enjoy an evening of artistry, nature, and togetherness as Symphony musicians share timeless works in a welcoming outdoor setting.
OCTOBER 25TH
End of Days Halloween Party
Kansas City Live! | 7:00 PM
Step into the ultimate Halloween experience at Kansas City Live! Embrace the chaos with spine-chilling vibes, thrilling entertainment, and KC’s biggest costume contest—where $10,000 in cash and prizes are up for grabs. Dress to impress or terrify, and join the city’s largest Halloween celebration for an unforgettable night of apocalyptic fun! Get your tickets online: powerandlightdistrict.com
OCTOBER 31ST
KC Monster Ball
The Jewel Event Space | 7:00 PM
Enter a world of madness at KC’s Monster Ball, the ultimate 21+ Halloween bash! Dance the night away, indulge in treats, and dare to compete in the chilling costume contest. General admission includes drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts, while The Morgue VIP offers exclusive perks. Don’t miss KC’s spookiest party—October 31, 7pm–midnight. Tickets vanish fast! Gets yours: eventbrite.com/
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