North Peoria, AZ October 2023

FOOD + BEVERAGE FUN AND FOOD ON LAKE PLEASANT

WHERE TO DINE IN THE WEST VALLEY

CREATIVE COCKTAILS

HOME + DESIGN

STYLE IS SERVED: KITCHEN DESIGN TIPS

FOOD + DRINKS

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October—Food & Drink

Welcome fall! With the changing seasons comes a change in what we are craving, and with fall that often means comfort food. October is our most delectable issue of the year, filled with some of our favorite dishes and beverages around town.

We enjoyed exploring some of the newest bites about town, so get your tastebuds ready. You are in for a treat. We also included a few recipes to try at home, whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining guests. Picazzo’s Arrowhead served up some fun cocktail recipes. I always love trying to make cocktails, but I find it easier to head to the source, sit on the patio, and let them craft me the perfect cocktail. We also took a ride onboard The Phoenix at Lake Pleasant. This is a great way to escape with a delicious meal, watch the sun setting over the water, and enjoy the clear night air. We hope you check out this gem in our own backyard.

Fall is my favorite time—even in Arizona—and food plays a big part in that. The quintessential fall dish for me is butternut squash soup. I also love cooking my mom's egg custard pie with nutmeg that brings all sorts of great fall feels. I've shared that recipe for you on page 42.

What's your favorite fall flavor?

In addition to my work as managing editor of North Peoria Lifestyle, I write about food and travel. I was recently working on an article about great foodie destinations, and I realized that some of my favorite food experiences happened here in the Valley of the Sun. How lucky are we to be in a place surrounded by such amazing food offerings? I hope you find some inspiration for great flavors in these pages.

There is definitely an art to creating a flavorful dish that not only satisfies our taste buds but evokes memories. The aroma of certain spices and foods can bring us right back to our childhood, which can be incredibly powerful and comforting. Food brings us all together, and whether we are sharing a meal with loved ones or enjoying a night out on the town, the time spent while enjoying food is invaluable.

Thanks for reading, and we'll see you around town.

SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM, MANAGING EDITOR @NORTHPEORIALIFESTYLE

October 2023

PUBLISHER

Julie LaCroix julie.lacroix@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Susan Lanier-Graham susan.lanier-graham@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jen David jen.david@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Christine Andert—Picture Lady Photography LLC Christine@picture-lady.com

COPY EDITOR

Mimi Slawoff mslawoff@gmail.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Nichole Eckman neckman12@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Brockerd, Kimberley Clifford, Michelle Talsma Everson, Susan Lanier-Graham, Gretchen Pahia

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Damien Lopez, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Hunter Richie

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

Photography: Damien Lopez

New Farmer's Market

North Peoria Farmers Market Opens October 7

Did you know there are more than 8,690 farmer's markets in the United States?

There are so many great benefits to shopping at farmer's markets, including knowing where your food comes from and supporting local businesses. We're excited that North Peoria is finally getting our very own farmer's market.

NEW NORTH PEORIA FARMERS MARKET

Beginning October 7, Get Local Arizona (formerly Momma's Organics) is launching the North Peoria Farmers Market (GetLocalArizonaEvents.com/sundaymarket)

at Liberty High School (9621 W Speckled Gecko Dr). The market runs every Sunday morning, October to April, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Each week, there will be a variety of vendors, including farmers, local market vendors, artisans, food trucks, kids' activities, and more. Admission is free, and vendors accept both cash and card. Leashed, friendly dogs are allowed. Check the website for a list of current vendors.

ARROWHEAD FARMERS MARKET CONTINUES

For those who prefer a Saturday market, the Arrowhead Farmers Market takes

place at Arrowhead Town Center (7780 W Arrowhead Town Center, Glendale) every Saturday, October to April, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This large market includes more than 80 vendors.

As with the North Peoria market, Arrowhead Farmers Market will feature items from farmers, local market vendors, artisans, food trucks, kids' activities, and more. Admission is also free and leashed, friendly dogs are welcome. Check out the current vendor list online at GetLocalArizonaEvents.com/ Saturdaymarket .

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

Lake Pleasant Cruises Ideal for Making Special Memories on the Water

CRUISIN’ ON THE LAKE FOR FUN AND FOOD

ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAMIEN LOPEZ

If you are looking for a cool spot to grab a bite to eat with some fantastic scenery, look no further than Lake Pleasant Cruises (LakePleasantCruises. com), which offers more than just a meal to its customers.

Lake Pleasant Cruises offers sightseeing, live music, brunch, sunset dinner cruises, and lovely lake views. According to Operations Manager Captain Matt Finney, the beauty of the landscape speaks for itself.

“Our guests can expect to see local wildlife like wild burros, blue herons, mule deer, bald eagles, and more while cruising. The Sonoran Desert is known for its vast array of plant life and boasts over 2,000 species of plants, including the famous saguaro cactus. Guests will enjoy breathtaking views of the Bradshaw Mountains from this 7,500-acre reservoir.”

MORE THAN GREAT SCENERY

It isn’t just about the scenery, though. There are plenty of delicious options on the Lake Pleasant Cruises. There are brunch cruises, sunset dinner cruises, sunset live music brew cruises, and much more. All meals are served buffet-style. Cruises run 105 minutes and offer music and a full-service bar with drinks and

snacks available for purchase. All ages are welcome, but reservations must be made 24 hours in advance.

PLENTY OF GREAT MENU OPTIONS

The BBQ Dinner Cruise by Dillon’s catering offers such tasty options as BBQ beef brisket, pulled pork, homestyle macaroni and cheese, creamy potato salad, and Jalapeño Corn Bread with butter, chocolate chip cookies, fudge brownies, and more!

The Captain’s Choice by Fat Freddy’s Catering has several scrumptious options, including White Burgundy Chicken Breast with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, shallots, and a white wine cream sauce. Or opt for slowsmoked beef brisket with creamy horseradish and au jus, roasted garlic red skin mashed potatoes, mixed greens salad, crusty French rolls with butter, and carrot cake.

Fat Freddy’s Catering also offers the Island Flavors dinner with a Hawaiianstyle menu with items such as Huli Huli Chicken marinated with Aji mirin, pineapple juice, and ginger or Bahama Mama Grilled Sirloin marinated with rum, dark molasses, and brown sugar. Entrees are served with pica peppa aioli, Caribbean rice and peas, Hawaiian rolls, and pineapple bread pudding for dessert.

CONTINUED >

The Italian dinner by Fat Freddy’s Catering comes with menu options such as pecorino and egg batter chicken piccata with fresh thyme, lemon, and caper butter or stuffed pork loin with spinach, sundried tomatoes, pine nuts, and pan gravy. Other options include parmesan risotto with pesto and pine nuts, Panzanella salad with romaine, tomatoes, baby mozzarella, fresh basil, croutons, and red wine roasted garlic vinaigrette. Dessert options include cannoli and Italian wedding cookies.

THE TEAM MAKES IT SPECIAL

Captain Finney says he is proud to be a part of such an excellent team, sharing Arizona’s scenic features with others.

“We love sharing beautiful Lake Pleasant with locals and tourists alike. There are so many people who live in the area but don't know about Lake Pleasant or have never been to Lake Pleasant because they think they need a boat or to spend a lot of money on a rental. We try to make it so everyone can afford to experience the lake for themselves,” he says.

Lake Pleasant Cruises has been operating since 2014 and started with simple sightseeing cruises. However, the team decided to expand and offer more services over the years.

“Lake Pleasant Cruises is looking forward to expanding the dates and times different cruises are offered, as well as adding new types of cruises in the future,” says Captain Finney.

Tickets range from $30 to $95 depending on age and cruise type. It's best to purchase tickets as far in advance as possible, as they are offered first come, first served.

“A year after my surgery I was still experiencing pain and numbness. Physical therapy had helped to a point, but I still wasn't able to resume my normal training without aggravating my back and being forced to limit my activity. Dr. Mitchell and his team immediately identified the problem areas and came up with a treatment plan. After the first visit, I had significant relief and have seen continuous improvement since then.”

STYLE IS SERVED

THE LATEST KITCHEN TRENDS FOR FALL

Fall is here, and the holidays are just around the corner, meaning we’ll all likely be spending even more time in one of the most important rooms in the home—the kitchen. Whether you’re a gourmet chef or a microwave expert, the kitchen is often the home's hub. To help keep your kitchen updated with the latest trends, we checked in with Alan Jones, the division president of Lennar Homes ( Lennar. com), one of the nation’s leading home builders. He shares some of the latest kitchen trends he’s seen as new homes are built across Peoria and nationwide.

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LENNAR HOMES

THE CLEAN LOOK OF STAINLESS STEEL

“In the kitchens we’ve been building lately at Lennar Homes, it’s all about stainless steel appliances,” Jones says. From refrigerators to dishwashers, stainless steel appliances remain popular because of their timeless and clean look.

KEEPING THE PLANET IN MIND

Jones says energy-saving appliances are another popular kitchen feature. At Lennar Homes, they utilize Energy Star refrigerators and dishwashers. Beyond appliances, though, there are other things you can do to be energy-aware.

“When building homes, we utilize a lot of LED lightbulbs; they save energy and reduce costs,” he explains.

He adds that Low-E or low-emissivity windows are another option for those looking to update their windows. These windows have a specialized glass coating that minimizes heat without reducing light.

COUNTERS AND CABINETS

The most popular trend Jones sees in countertops is quartz. “Quartz stands out top of mind because it’s often perceived as higher value and, like stainless steel, has a crisp, clean look.”

Quartz is also easy to maintain and doesn’t usually need to be resealed. Granite is a close second to quartz, but it occasionally needs to be re-sealed due to wear and tear. The plus side, though, is that granite countertops use all-natural materials.

Jones adds that the shaker-style kitchen cabinets are popular now and loved for their clean lines, sleek hardware, and square look. They’re modern and contemporary but timeless at the same time.

As far as colors, he recommends keeping it light. “Lighter colors often work best, in my opinion, because they’re bright and help the kitchen to feel bigger,” Jones says.

FLOORING IT

When asked about flooring, Jones acknowledges that the options can be overwhelming. From his experience, he has seen a lot of plank-style ceramic tile that looks like wood. “The planks are long, and often there’s knots and texture that give the tile an authentic wood look,” he explains.

KITCHEN AND HOME DESIGNS THAT LAST

According to Jones, the most important thing to remember for kitchen style is to consider quality over quantity. If you must sacrifice kitchen size in a new home, he suggests keeping colors light and using accessories and appliances with a clean, crisp, and minimal look.

He adds, “If you’re building a home, especially as a first-time buyer, work with a quality builder and choose designs that are to your taste but will also stand the test of time.”

Dine the West Valley

Check Out the Newest Flavors Around Town

The West Valley is home to some of the best restaurants around. Take a food journey with us as we explore several newer eateries, including specialty dining options.

SUGAR FACTORY

Known for extravagant desserts and main dishes, the Sugar Factory (SugarFactory.com) recently opened its doors at Westgate. Try the fantastic World-Famous Sugar Factory King Kong Sundae, which features 24 scoops of ice cream covered in hot fudge, caramel, and strawberry sauce.

ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA

CHICKEN N PICKLE

The recently opened entertainment venue, Chicken N Pickle (ChickenNPickle.com), is a great spot to play pickleball and other games while grabbing a bite or drink. One of the specialty cocktails is the Guava Paloma with 21 Seeds Grapefruit Hibiscus Tequila, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, guava puree, grapefruit and lime juice, grapefruit soda, and pink salt.

Photo courtesy Sugar Factory

Photo by Amber Deery

BOURBON & BONES

Are you looking for a scrumptious meal at Bourbon & Bones ( BourbonAndBones.com )? Order the Elite Prime New York Strip with Flambé. This elevated steak dish is heightened by an eye-catching table-side presentation, enhanced with a flavor profile of peppercorn, rosemary, and butter.

THE STETSON SOCIAL

One of the best options on the menu at The Stetson Social ( TheStetsonSocial.com) is the Watermelon Horiatiki salad. This unique dish features heirloom tomatoes, feta, kalamata olives, English cucumbers, red onion, capers, watermelon, and an oregano-citrus style dressing.

OVER EASY

With a new location in Glendale, Over Easy ( EatAtOverEasy.com) has excellent options, including the Golden Waffle Dog. One of the most unique items on the menu is sausage links dipped in vanilla waffle batter and fried.

Photo courtesy The Stetson Social

Photo courtesy Bourbon & Bones

Photo courtesy Over Easy

BIGS AMERICAN GRILL

If you want a great spot to watch sports with friends, head to Bigs American Grill (BigsPeoria.com). Check out the Seared Ahi Wontons, a dish with seared Ahi on wonton chips, chipotle slaw, avocado, jalapeño slices, sriracha, and wasabi sauces.

URBAN AGAVE

New owners and a new name bring bold new flavors to Urban Agave (Urban-Agave. com). Savor Mexican and American favorites prepared fresh each day. Choose from a great selection of tacos or sample the new stuffed poblano peppers filled with shredded chicken, tomato, and onion and topped with warm queso.

HARKINS CINE GRILL

This is no ordinary movie theatre. The new Harkins Cine Grill ( Harkins.com/cinegrill ) offers moviegoers a variety of delectable dishes, including the Sonoran Bacon-Wrapped Dog topped with pinto beans, pickled jalapeños, Pico de Gallo, cotija cheese, and lime crema, served with a side of warm tortilla chips.

Photo courtesy Bigs American Grill

Photo courtesy Harkins

Photo courtesy Urban Agave

Creative Twists

The next time you think about ordering one of your classic favorites—a Martini, margarita, or Bloody Mary—how about switching it up? These three easy drink recipes add a little something extra to cocktail favorites. Follow along to whip up something special for your guests—or head to Picazzo's Arrowhead ( Picazzos. com) and order one at the full bar or to accompany your meal.

Picazzo's, located at 8280 W Union Hills, is an Arizona-based family-owned restaurant specializing in clean, whole foods. The modern Italian fusion blends Asian, Mediterranean, and Mexican ingredients for simple, great food. There is a gluten-free and vegan menu available.

Key Lime Pie Martini

This fun take on a martini features the vanilla, coconut, and lime of a key lime pie, complete with the shortbread crust.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz Stoli Vanilla Vodka

• 1 oz lime juice

• 1 oz simple syrup

• 1 oz coconut cream

• Siete Mexican Shortbread Cookies (gluten-free, vegan)

• lime peel

DIRECTIONS

1. Place all ingredients into a shaker with ice and shake vigorously.

2. Use lime juice to rim the glass and roll it into crushed Siete cookie crumbs.

3. Strain into a chilled, rimmed martini glass.

4. Garnish with a lime peel

ON CLASSIC COCKTAILS

3 FUN NEW RECIPES DESIGNED TO SHAKE UP THE CLASSICS

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY BY PICAZZO'S

Limoncello Margarita

Blend the classic flavors of a margarita with the classic Italian limoncello for a lemony spin on a tradition.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 oz Espolon Reposado Tequila

• 1 oz Villa Massa Limoncello

• 1 oz lemon juice

• .75 oz simple syrup

DIRECTIONS

1. Place all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake vigorously.

2. Strain into a cocktail glass over ice.

3. Serve with sugar rim and lemon zest.

4. Garnish with lemon peel.

Bloody Mary

Spice up any brunch with a Blood Mary. Have fun with the garnish—add salami, pickle, olive, and lime skewers. Or, you can stop by Picazzo's on Saturday and Sunday and order an $8 Bloody Mary or Mimosa.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 oz Luksusowa potato vodka

• 4 oz Bloody Mary mix

• 1/2 oz Demitri's Bloody Mary seasoning

• Shrubwell chile lime salt for rimming

• Celery salt for rimming

DIRECTIONS

1. Pour all ingredients over ice into a cocktail shaker.

2. Shake vigorously.

3. Strain into an ice-filled tall glass rimmed with Shrubwell chile lime salt and celery salt.

4. Garnish with a skewer of salami, pickles, stuffed olives, and lime.

Ourjobistoserveourcommunitybyeducating ourprospectivecustomersfirst,thenallowing themtodecidethebestlong-termenergy-efficient solutionssuitableforthem.

Northpointe Prepares for New Phase

New Homeowners Experience Elevated Desert Living in Northpointe at Vistancia

ARTICLE BY KIMBERLEY CLIFFORD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NORTHPOINTE AT VISTANCIA

Following a successful launch of Vistancia’s final community, the 3,450-acre Northpointe at Vistancia (LiveAtNorthpointe. com) prepares to begin its second phase of development in Northpointe with even higher elevations, exclusive mountainside homesites, and the community’s first luxury gated neighborhood that will offer more epic panoramic views and serene desert surroundings unlike anything else available in the West Valley.

Northpointe at Vistancia’s inaugural phase, which included 437 homesites by David Weekley Homes, Pulte Homes, and Richmond American, is nearing completion. Phase 2 includes 469 homesites by David Weekley Homes, Pulte Homes, and Beazer Homes and includes a selection of luxury homes nestled around Vistancia’s signature White Peak and Sonoran

Desert foothills. Phase 2 features nine new models, over 20 elevations, with one- and two-story homes ranging from approximately 1,685 to 3,554 sf starting in the mid-$400s.

Northpointe at Vistancia residents enjoy The Sovita Club, a 5,300 sf private recreation center and amenity park. The Sovita Club is positioned to take advantage of the stunning views of the surrounding White Peak and Twin Butte mountains and includes a resort-style pool, fitness on-demand studio, multi-use sports courts, resident gathering spaces, kids play zone, and walking trails.

For more information about Northpointe at Vistancia, visit the Northpointe Visitor Center, open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 32900 N. White Peak Drive in Peoria.

North Peoria continues to be a highly sought-after area. Northpointe’s natural elevated desert setting and robust amenities make it a desirable choice for new home shoppers.

—Mark Hammons, general manager of Vistancia

THE FLAVOR OF FALL

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Apples are the trademark fruit of fall, and with the many varieties to choose from, there is an apple that is sure to please any palate. They can be included in both sweet and savory dishes and are delicious and incredibly healthful. We all have heard the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” While they aren’t a cureall, apples are packed full of polyphenols, antioxidants, vitamin C, B vitamins and fiber. Make the most of autumn’s best produce and the flavors of fall with these simple recipes.

APPLE GALETTE WITH CARAMEL DRIZZLE

Easier than pie but with all the same textures, this gooey warm dessert is sure to please. For simplicity, this can be made with a premade crust.

INGREDIENTS: INSTRUCTIONS:

Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups flour

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 stick cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1/4 cup iced cold water

Filling:

• 2 apples, peeled and sliced into thin slices

• 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar

• 1 1/2 tablespoons flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Caramel sauce

• Optional: 1/4 chopped walnuts or pecans

Crust:

(Note: If running short on time, store bought crust works great, too.)

Mix flour, salt and sugar together in a bowl. Cut in the butter. Add water and mix until moistened. Lightly knead the dough and then form into a ball. Next, flatten dough into a thick circular form and refrigerate for one hour.

Filling:

Mix the apples, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg and brown sugar together in a bowl.

Assemble and Bake:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into a circle and set on parchment paper. Arrange apples in center of dough, leaving about one inch of space for the edges. Fold crust over the apples and press to seal edges. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with pecans or walnuts. Bake for 35 minutes. Serve with caramel sauce and ice-cream.

ELEVATED GRILLED CHEESE

This take on the classic grilled cheese is sure to satisfy your fall cravings. With the combined flavors of savory and sweet, it packs a punch for your taste buds.

INGREDIENTS: INSTRUCTIONS:

• 1/4 red onion, sliced

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Sliced sourdough bread

• 1-2 tablespoons butter

• 4 ounces Brie, sliced

• Fig jam, or preferred choice of jam

• 1 Granny smith apple, sliced

• Arugula

• Thinly sliced ham, optional

Heat olive oil in the skillet and add sliced onions. Cook for a few minutes and then add brown sugar. Sauté until soft. Set aside. Butter the outside of the sourdough bread. Next, spread jam on the inside of both slices. Add cheese, apples, onions and arugula. If using meat, add as well. Top with slice of bread and grill on skillet until both sides are toasted and cheese is melted. Serve and enjoy!

APPLE CHUTNEY

This Indian-inspired dish is the perfect fall topping for pork chops and also pairs nicely with ham. This is so easy to make and will fill your kitchen with the aroma of fall.

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 2 cups Granny Smith apple, chopped

• ¼ cup pecans or walnuts

• 1/3 cup apple juice

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar

• 3 tablespoons dried cranberries

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• ¾ teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

INSTRUCTIONS:

Heat butter in saucepan, then add remaining ingredients. Cook over medium heat until the sauce has cooked down and the apples are tender. Serve over pork chops. Enjoy!

Mom's Egg Custard Pie

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

Egg Custard Pie

ingredients

• 3 eggs

• 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup sugar

• 2 Tablespoons melted butter

• 1 13 oz can evaporated milk

• 2 teaspoons vanilla

• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg

directions

1. Beat eggs in a small bowl and set aside.

2. Mix flour and sugar, add beaten eggs, and mix other ingredients in the order given.

3. Pour into a greased and floured large (9") pie pan.

4. Sprinkle with fresh nutmeg.

5. Bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes.

6. Cut and serve warm with fresh berries and powdered sugar, if desired. It can be refrigerated and served cold for up to three days.

A family recipe brings great flavors and amazing memories

Mom's egg custard pie was a childhood favorite. Mom made this in the fall and winter for special meals. She served it for Thanksgiving, Christmas morning, and on special occasions when we needed a simple but delicious dish. After my mom's passing, my sister had this recipe—in my mom's handwriting—framed for me. Today, we sometimes embellish it with fresh fruits and powdered sugar for dessert or serve it plain for breakfast. I'm honored to share one of my food memories with you. This makes one 9" pie.