The Art Of Gathering FO O D & DRI N K ISSU E
O C TO B E R 2 02 6
LIFESTYLE LETTER
We Take Our Food Seriously! Here in the Park Cities, we take our food seriously - and Rightly So! That is the spirit of this issue, and remember, The State Fair of Texas is upon us to kick-off a solid month of Texas Sized experiences! A day with Big Tex is a “Just Must” in the world of great tastes, smells, exhibits and just all around having a great day out with the family! Of course, we are more than fortunate to live among numerous chefs who tenaciously treat a menu somewhat like a love letter to those who enjoy their creations. There also are local sommeliers who can find the Just Exactly Right bottle to make a weekday meal feel like a grand celebration. Finally, there are the wonderful cooks at home taking the family special recipes and crafting them to become an experience of togetherness and relationships - friends’ old family creations shared in a group as well as those long time favorite holiday treats that will be soon to hit the tables with the holidays just around the corner. The big thing about food and drink at their best is not really about the food and drink. It is the excuse to stop, sit and stay awhile, slow down, gather to celebrate a big win or a special time visiting about the special people in the family. A meal truly is one the few remaining rituals that asks nothing of you except YOUR PRESENCE. In this issue you shall find some of the extravagant events produced through the signature talent of artist Lee Logan; then dig into the creative story of New Artisan Distillery with founder Don Short as he shares the Roxor Spirits’ history; and finally a huge display of our State Fair of Texas favorites. Like I said at first, we take our food seriously, especially this time of year! As always, I sincerely thank you for allowing us into your homes to share our stories of those you know, and those you are about to meet! This is the greatest privilege of this job. Cheers to good food, good drink, Great gatherings and even better company to enjoy it with! Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will. Never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” - John 6:35
October 2026 PUBLISHER
Linda Livingston | linda.livingston@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R
Drew Cotner | drew.cotner@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R
Mark Hanna | mark.hanna@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R
Drew Cotner | drew.cotner@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Taylor Pulfer, Charlotte Glieber, Drew Cotner, Cynthia Smoot, Jon Escoe C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S
Kim Leeson, John Cain, Sarah Kate
Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
L I N DA L I V I N G S TO N , P U B L I S H E R @ PA R KC I T I E S L I F E S T Y L E (817) 613-7723 Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Park Cities Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Park Cities area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
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 Park Cities Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
inside the issue OC TOB E R 2 02 6 | FOOD & D R I N K
14 Featured
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22 6
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WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?
Departments
Where Memories Become Masterpieces Helping Families Turn Life’s Biggest Milestones Into Unforgettable Memories.
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Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.
The Ultimate Fair Food Guide Twelve Delicious Reasons To Visit The State Fair Of Texas
Botanicals, Vision, Crafted Spirits How ROXOR Redefines Spirits Through Innovation, Nature, And Unforgettable Design
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Lifestyle Letter
8
City Scene
10
Business Monthly
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Inspired By EVENT PLANNING + SERVICES
18
How To LIFE + CULTURE
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Trend Setter FOOD + BEVERAGE
22
Must See FOOD + BEVERAGE
26
Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE
30
Local Limelight FOOD + BEVERAGE
32
Events
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OCTOBER 2026
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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1: Celebrating 20 years, A Writer’s Garden Literary Symposium and Luncheon returns Tuesday, November 10, 2026. 2: Spectacles of Power and Faith has been organized by the Meadows Museum. 3: Highland Park Village welcomes fall with luxury shopping, seasonal fashion, and al fresco dining.
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C I T Y SC E N E
Ben Stevenson’s
A beloved tradition, beautifully brought to life.
Nov 27-Dec 6
Winspear Opera House Corps de Ballet Dancer Anastasia Tillman, Soloist Jackson Bayhi, and Artists of Texas Ballet Theater
TexasBalletTheater.org
OCTOBER 2026
business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S
Weekly Group Sessions at Hola HP! Hola HP students started the year strong with our summer reading reviews and math, science, and Spanish foundations refreshers! We're proud to see students walking into the classroom more confident and prepared. To keep that momentum going, don't miss out on our weekly group sessions, which are a great way to reinforce classroom learning all year long. And for our youngest learners, we're excited to offer seasonal and holiday campus for Pre-K and elementary students. Let's make this the best school year yet!
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Dallas Dental Concierge Dallas Dental Concierge brings a private-client sensibility to dentistry. Founded by Dr. Melisa Christian, official dentist of the Dallas Mavericks, the practice is conveniently located in the Highland Park Place building within the Knox District. Private treatment rooms, minimal wait times and garage parking. Personalized care spans routine cleanings to veneers, Invisalign, and full smile makeovers, guided by iTero digital scanning and laser dentistry. One patient, one plan, and methodical attention to detailed care throughout every visit.
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
Million Air Dallas Skip the crowds and elevate your summer travel with the MAnext Jet Pass. Enjoy the convenience of private aviation with flexible scheduling, discounted charter rates, and personalized concierge service for every trip. Members gain access to a global charter network with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. Powered by Million Air Dallas’ 40+ years of operational excellence, the MAnext Jet Pass offers a smarter, more luxurious way to travel. Visit MAnext.com/jet-pass for more information.
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LVL Orthodontics LVL Orthodontics introduces C5 Hidden Orthodontics — and brings an exclusive first to Dallas. C5 is a precision lingual wire that sits invisibly on the inside of your teeth, gently correcting relapse without braces or clear aligners. It's the ideal solution for patients who've had orthodontic treatment before and want to reclaim their smile — discreetly. As the only Dallas practice offering C5, LVL continues to set the standard in boutique orthodontic care. lvlortho.com
CONTINUED >
THE DALLAS CONSERVATORY
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business monthly CONTINUED
Build More Than a Home. Build a Legacy. At Ranger Ridge, your investment goes beyond land. Build your dream ranch home within a private Texas community created for families who value the outdoors, recreation, and time spent together. Surrounded by like-minded neighbors, wide-open land, and exceptional amenities, Ranger Ridge offers something increasingly rare—a place to put down roots, create traditions, and build a legacy your family can enjoy for generations.
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
Farm Pac Kitchens At Farm Pac Kitchens, we deliver premium pre-cooked meals straight to your door, perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, and corporate gifts. Proud to be featured at the State Fair of Texas, we bring the same great taste Texans love right to your table. Order today and enjoy delicious, ready-to-serve meals everyone will savor.
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WHERE MEMORIES
Become Masterpieces
Lee Logan
Helping Families Turn Life’s Biggest Milestones Into Unforgettable Memories.
ARTICLE BY JON ESCOE
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I NSP IR E D BY | EVENT P LAN N IN G + SE RVICE S
Lee Logan is a Dallas-based event producer whose established work ethic for over 30 years has taken her throughout the United States and to international destinations. She has produced private celebrations, corporate events, philanthropic gatherings, destination weddings, memorials and intimate dinners. Whether creating an intimate family gathering or a nationally recognized event, Lee has remained guided by the same philosophy: every gathering should honestly reflect the people, purpose and mission at its heart. This signature philosophy earns the respect and adoration of each client as every event’s success becomes unmistakably representative of the people the event was created for. “Every project truly begins with listening”, Logan shares. Through the process of working together, many clients often arrive with a vision. Others arrive with a mission, goals, responsibilities or simply a desire to bring people together in a meaningful way. She listens carefully as to create a finished experience, which genuinely reflects the people, their purpose and the mission at its heart. Many clients have commented that these proposals read more like screenplays than production documents. They describe how the experience unfolds long before it physically exists. Through these connections, along the way relationships naturally develop. Logan states, “As creativity, collaboration and shared purpose bring people together, one of the unexpected gifts of event production is the creative process itself often becoming the foundation of lasting friendships.” We hired Lee Logan Events to plan and design our daughter’s wedding. It remains one of the best decisions we have ever made. At our first meeting, our initial input to Lee of what we wanted for the wedding was comically sparse. The bride and groom wanted a great party and I, the MOB, wanted beautiful flowers and a “ beautiful wedding”. Oh, and not to use one piece of furniture at the venue the happy couple had their hearts set on. That was it. Lee had to take it from there — and did she ever! Her creativity, imagination and sense of style are unmatched. Lee designed things I never would have imagined. The wedding was in Austin, and Lee interviewed and selected the best vendors due to her experience and knowledge. She traveled to Austin several times before the wedding to oversee everything. The ballroom was totally transformed, and it was everything and more we could have hoped for. CONTINUED >
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Another thing that Lee Logan Events prioritizes is making sure everything is FUN and guests leave knowing they have been to a great party. Another form of entertainment was added, in addition to the band, to be a part of the celebration, and it was a fun, unexpected wow factor. Lee is so detail oriented— there is no down time and everything runs so smoothly. Delaney and Craig Archibald share from their experience with Logan, “Planning a wedding is stressful, and Lee took the stress away. Her calm demeanor and expertise inspire so much confidence in her ability to deliver what you are hoping for. Everyone involved with Lee Logan Events worked so hard on every detail and did so graciously. We couldn’t have asked for anything more.” Logan shared that one of her career’s greatest privileges has been collaborating with clients and extraordinarily creative professionals whose talents continually inspire her. Bringing people together who care deeply about their craft and the experience they are helping create is a gift, with the variety and numbers of connections are countless. She sees her role as not to have all the answers but to recognize the right people for each project, interpreting the client’s vision and creating an environment where everyone can contribute their very best work. Watching gifted professionals interpret the same vision through their own specific craft, each adding depth, perspective and excellence to the fabulously finished experience, is an event itself.
LEE LOGAN
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LEE LOGAN EVENTS
Robert and Angela Buchholz share, “for 20 years Lee Logan Events has earned our complete trust, flawlessly bringing our family’s biggest milestones in life across Texas and California. From two children’s weddings and a ranch Christmas party, to my parent’s 50th anniversary, Lee’s warm, reliable touch and endless creativity make every celebration an absolute masterpiece.”
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I NSP IR E D BY | EVENT P LAN N IN G + SE RVICE S
“Ever y project truly begins with listening— and that proc e s s t r a n s fo r m s a vision into an experience that genuinely ref l ects th e people and purpose at i t s h e a r t .” Examples of Lee Logan Event Production efforts illustrate the scope and variety of her work over the years: Dallas, TX - Three decades of private celebrations, corporate events, philanthropic gatherings and destination productions. Little Rock, AR - President Bill Clinton’s Election Night Watch Party. Beverly Hills, CA - Ferrari International corporate celebration. Van Buren, AR - Private ranch Scottish High Tea tented wedding. New Orleans, LA - Historic carriage house rehearsal dinner celebration. Stevenson, WA - Woodland destination wedding. Montecito, CA - Vineyard destination wedding. In closing, please note these personal thoughts from Lee Logan’s perspective and heart toward what has become a true testament to what has grown into one of the most sought after worldwide industries of experience. “Being invited into some of life’s most meaningful occasions has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Every client who welcomed me into their story, placed their trust in me and often became a lifelong friend, I will always be grateful. I am equally grateful to the remarkably creative partners whose talent, dedication and friendship have helped bring these experiences to life over the years.” Cheers! Leeloganevents.com
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From The Show
Ring To Stewardship Long before Heath Cheek became a member of the State Fair of Texas Board of Directors and Chair of its Agriculture & Livestock Committee, he was an eight-year-old boy from Chillicothe, Texas, loading Hereford cattle into a trailer and heading to Dallas. Cheek spent nearly every fall exhibiting livestock at the State Fair of Texas. Those experiences did more than introduce him to the excitement of Dallas; they shaped the course of his life. He credits those childhood trips with inspiring his decision to build both his career and family life in Dallas.
Today, nearly two decades into his volunteer service, Cheek views the Fair through a different lens. As a nonprofit organization, the State Fair of Texas exists to celebrate Texas while investing in its future. Through scholarships and educational opportunities, yearround community initiatives, and the preservation of Fair Park, the State Fair’s impact extends far beyond its iconic 24-day annual event. For Cheek, agriculture remains at the heart of that mission. Raising livestock taught him budgeting, responsibility, discipline, and work ethic long before he entered a classroom studying business or law. Those same lessons, he says, continue to shape thousands of Texas students today, whether they pursue careers in agriculture or simply carry those life skills into adulthood. Now raising his own family in Highland Park, Cheek hopes more Park Cities residents discover what he has known since childhood: the State Fair belongs to everyone. “It’s the one event in Dallas where people from every background come together,” he says. “You may not agree on much else, but you can all agree on a Corny Dog.” He also hopes his neighbors will look beyond the midway and embrace the Fair’s philanthropic mission. From attending the annual State Fair, supporting fundraising events like Saddle Up, to volunteering and championing the Fair’s mission year-round, he believes there are countless ways for Park Cities residents to become part of something much bigger than a single event. For Cheek, that’s what the State Fair has always been about, not just celebrating Texas for 24 days each fall, but investing in its people for generations to come.
A lifelong State Fair Journey Inspires Service, Agriculture, And Community Across Texas. ARTICLE BY TAYLOR PULFER
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ARTICLE BY CYNTHIA SMOOT
The Ultimate Fair Food Guide TWELVE DELICIOUS REASONS TO VISIT THE STATE FAIR OF TEXAS
1 . Ro u s s o’s B acon Jam C arame l Appl e Hard C i de r Isaac Rousso has partnered with Trinity Ciders to create a delicious hard cider crafted with hints of apples, caramel, cinnamon sugar, and a smoky bacon jam twist for bold Texas flavors.
2 . Fer n i e’s Froze n E s pres s o-tini Bar
4. Flamin’ Crunch Pizza Pizza with a jalapeño cheddar queso base is baked with a freshly grated blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Then topped with Flamin’ Hot Cheetos®, a drizzle of jalapeño queso blanco, buffalo buttermilk ranch dressing, and Flamin’ Hot Cheetos® dust!
Robust cold-brew espresso is blended with Fernie's Funnel Cake Cream™ creating layers of deep coffee flavors and hints of vanilla. Each bar is artfully drizzled with ribbons of chocolate shell coating.
3. B u rge r C hop Tater Tacos Smashed cheddar cheese tater tots form a taco shell. It’s filled with ground meat, sautéed onions and jalapeños, mozzarella and American cheese and finished with buffalo buttermilk ranch coleslaw, garlic parmesan buffalo sauce, and more tots.
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T R E N D SE T T E R | FO O D + BE VE RAGE
5. Holy Flan! Buñue loco Deep-fried flan encased in a warm, crispy buñuelo bowl filled with arroz con leche and a scoop of cinnamon Blue Bell® Ice Cream, topped with fluffy whipped cream topping and a rich caramel sauce drizzle.
9. The Gobble Roll at Hans Mue lle r An egg roll loaded with smoky turkey leg meat, fire-roasted corn, sweet peppers, cream cheese, and a blend of savory seasonings. Hand-rolled and deep-fried until perfectly crispy, then served with your choice of sweet-and-spicy honey hot sauce or a cool creamy cilantro sauce.
6 . Texas Pe c a n Pra l i n e Che e s e c ake C on e A waffle cone is dipped in white chocolate, rolled in buttery Texas pecan praline, crushed Biscoff® cookies, and freeze-dried strawberries, and filled with homemade, creamy scoopable cookie butter cheesecake.
10. Jack’s Fre nch Frie s An American classic!! The Pyland family introduced French Fries to Texas in 1945. They still use their original recipe – fresh potatoes dipped in a mixture of spices, then deep fried.
7. Nev i n s S o f t Ser ve Pe ac h B e l l i n i Fl oat A peach bellini soft serve is infused with sparkling wine, topped with sparkling sugar and grated frozen peach. Finished with a sugary-sweet golden topping.
8. D i ppi n’ D ots Di r t y Dr Pe ppe r ® Do-Si -Do Fl oat Ice-cold Dr Pepper® is served with a drizzle of creamy coconut, then topped with Dr Pepper® Dippin’ Dots®, fresh lime, whipped cream, festive red sprinkles, and a Dr Pepper® jelly bean!
11. Twinkle Twinkle Bri s ket S tar by S mokey John’s Smoked brisket, chopped jalapeño and cream cheese stuffed in a real Twinkie. Dipped in batter, rolled in panko, deep fried, drizzled with raspberry chipotle sauce, topped with bacon crumbles and jalapeno slices.
12. Zable’s Be lgian Waffle s Belgian Waffles are made from pastry batter, creating waffles with an airy interior that are baked, not fried. Topped with real whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and powdered sugar. Only 196 calories! OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ PA R KC I T I E S
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CRAFTED SPIRITS
BOTANICALS, VISION,
HOW ROXOR REDEFINES SPIRITS THROUGH I N N O VAT I O N , N AT U R E , A N D U N F O R G E T TA B L E D E S I G N
ARTICLE BY DREW COTNER
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M UST SE E | FO O D + BEVE RAGE
“REAL PLANTS INSPIRE EVERY BOTTLE, CREATING SPIRITS WITH REMARKABLE DEPTH, BALANCE, AND UNFORGETTABLE CHARACTER.”
Some brands begin with a business plan. ROXOR began with a conversation between two friends determined to create something entirely their own. After a global career with Coca-Cola spanning the United States, Japan, India and London, founder Don Short wanted the opportunity to build a brand from the ground up. Having helped grow one of the world’s most recognizable companies, he partnered with longtime friend Robert Del Grande, a James Beard Award-winning chef and Ph.D. in biochemistry. Together, they relied on experience rather than consultants, creating a company rooted in creativity, innovation and a shared passion for botanicals. Rather than entering beer or wine, the pair focused on spirits, where both the bottle and the product could stand apart. Inspired by CocaCola’s iconic contour bottle, they created ROXOR’s Skyline Bottle, featuring raised windows that can be recognized by touch alone. Even in the dark, the bottle is unmistakable. It’s also a tribute to the architects who shape the skylines that define our cities. That same philosophy extends to every spirit they produce. Real plants, not artificial ingredients, are at the heart of the distillery. Their CONTINUED > OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ PA R KC I T I E S
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“BUILDING ROXOR HAS NEVER BEEN ABOUT FOLLOWING TRENDS. IT'S ABOUT TRUSTING EXPERIENCE, EMBRACING INNOVATION, CELEBRATING BOTANICALS, AND CREATING MEMORABLE MOMENTS THAT BEGIN THE MOMENT GUESTS WALK THROUGH THE DISTILLERY DOORS AND CONTINUE LONG AFTER THE LAST SIP.” gin features 12 botanicals, vodka is infused with three real flowers, and ROXOR’s Botanical Bourbon contains 20 exotic botanicals, creating flavor profiles unlike anything else on the market. From the spirits themselves to the distillery’s décor, botanicals define the brand. For Short and Del Grande, quality begins with authentic ingredients. In an industry where ingredient labels are uncommon, they believed consumers would appreciate spirits crafted with real plants instead of artificial alternatives. Rather than following trends, ROXOR has focused on creating distinctive products that reflect its own vision. That commitment led to one of the company’s proudest achievements: what they call the world’s first Botanical Bourbon. Beginning with a young bourbon, Del Grande experimented by aging it with carefully selected botanicals for six months. The process softened the bourbon’s harsh edges while adding remarkable depth and complexity. The finished spirit earned a Platinum Award at the prestigious ASCOT Awards, validating the team’s innovative approach.
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M UST SE E | FO O D + BEVE RAGE
Innovation remains central to the distillery. New recipes are continually tested, including a botanical vermouth and Almond Fresca, a fresh take on traditional almond liqueur finished in bourbon barrels. Expected this fall, Almond Fresca has already become a favorite among visitors during tastings. Dallas proved to be the perfect home for ROXOR. After purchasing the distillery during the pandemic, relocating felt natural for Short, who had previously lived in the city. Today, he credits Dallas’ entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiastic customers for helping the brand flourish. Visitors quickly discover that ROXOR offers more than exceptional cocktails. Artwork by JM Rizzi, retro soul music, a garnish garden and welcoming staff create an atmosphere that’s as memorable as the spirits themselves. Every guest is treated like a “ROX Star.” For Short, the greatest reward isn’t simply producing award-winning spirits—it’s building a brand with purpose. By blending science, creativity and a passion for botanicals, ROXOR continues to prove that extraordinary ideas often begin with two friends determined to create something unforgettable.
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The Art of Sweet Ambition OLYMPIC DISCIPLINE MEETS CULINARY CREATIVITY AND ENTREPRENEURIAL VISION. ARTICLE BY CHARLOTTE GLIEBER
Q1: YOUR JOURNEY FROM OLYMPIC SWIMMER TO FOUNDER OF ONE OF TEXAS’ FASTEST-GROWING DESSERT BRANDS IS CERTAINLY UNIQUE. HOW DID DRIZZLE CHEESECAKES COME TO LIFE?
Stephen El Gidi: Drizzle Cheesecakes started as a passion project while I was still competing in swimming. I began selling cheesecakes at local festivals, and seeing the response from customers inspired me to dream bigger. Over time, we expanded to major events like the State Fair of Texas, and that momentum eventually led to opening our first storefront at Toyota Music Factory. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful to see how much the brand has grown.
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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE
“EVERY MILESTONE REMINDS US HOW FAR WE’VE COME, AND INSPIRES US TO KEEP GROWING.”
Q2: DRIZZLE CHEESECAKES HAS EXPERIENCED EXCITING GROWTH, INCLUDING EXPANDING INTO COSTCO. WHAT DOES THAT MILESTONE MEAN FOR YOU AND THE BRAND?
Stephen El Gidi: It’s a huge honor and an exciting next step for us. Costco allows us to introduce Drizzle Cheesecakes to an even wider audience while staying true to the quality and creativity that got us here. Every milestone reminds us how far we’ve come from those early festival days, and we’re excited to continue growing while delivering the same experience our customers know and love.
Q3: YOU’RE RETURNING TO THE STATE FAIR OF TEXAS AS A 2026 BIG TEX CHOICE AWARDS SWEET FINALIST WITH BERRY ME IN MATCHA. WHAT INSPIRED THIS NEWEST CREATION, AND WHAT MAKES IT A MUST-TRY FOR FAIRGOERS?
Stephen El Gidi: We’re incredibly honored to be named a 2026 Sweet Finalist. We wanted to create something that felt both adventurous and approachable by combining rich New York-style cheesecake with flavors that are unique yet balanced. Berry Me in Matcha features our signature cheesecake hand-dipped in silky Belgian white chocolate, rolled in crushed matcha cookies for a delicate earthy crunch, then drizzled with white chocolate and sweet strawberry jam before being topped with a fresh strawberry slice. Every bite is creamy, crunchy, fruity, and just the right amount of sweet. We can’t wait for Fairgoers to experience it for themselves.
Q4: WINNING “BEST TASTE – SWEET” IN 2023 WITH BISCOFF DELIGHT WAS A MAJOR MILESTONE. LOOKING BACK, HOW DID THAT RECOGNITION HELP SHAPE THE GROWTH OF DRIZZLE CHEESECAKES?
Stephen El Gidi: Winning the award was a turning point for us. It brought incredible exposure to the brand and validated all of the hard work that went into developing our products. That recognition helped open new doors and gave us the confidence to take the next step toward opening our first brickand-mortar location and continuing to grow the business. CONTINUED > OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ PA R KC I T I E S
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ABOUT
D R I Z Z LE CHEESECAKES From festival beginnings to a storefront at Toyota Music Factory and expansion into Costco, Drizzle Cheesecakes has built a reputation for turning classic cheesecake into an elevated experience. Founded by former Olympic swimmer Stephen El Gidi, the brand combines New York-style cheesecake with premium Belgian chocolate and inventive toppings. Its award-winning Biscoff Delight earned Best Taste – Sweet at the 2023 Big Tex Choice Awards. In 2026, Drizzle returns to the State Fair with Berry Me in Matcha, a sophisticated new creation.
Q5: DRIZZLE CHEESECAKES HAS DEVELOPED A LOYAL FOLLOWING IN A CITY KNOWN FOR INCREDIBLE DESSERTS. WHAT DO YOU THINK KEEPS CUSTOMERS COMING BACK?
Stephen El Gidi: We wanted to create something that’s both familiar and completely unique. Our New York-style cheesecake is dipped in premium Belgian chocolate, served on a stick, and topped with fun, indulgent ingredients. It’s a dessert that’s easy to enjoy on the go while still delivering a premium experience.
Q6: FROM RETAIL EXPANSION TO NEW FAIR CREATIONS, DRIZZLE CHEESECAKES CONTINUES TO GROW AT AN IMPRESSIVE PACE. WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT THE NEXT CHAPTER FOR THE BRAND?
Stephen El Gidi: We’re focused on continuing to grow thoughtfully while never compromising on quality. Whether that’s expanding into more retail locations, creating new flavors, or introducing Drizzle Cheesecakes to new communities, our goal is to keep sharing our passion for great desserts with as many people as possible!
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Fall Flavors, CATERED WITH
PURPOSE
Your next event just got a whole lot tastier! From office lunches to big celebrations, Ruthie’s brings the gourmet grilled cheese everyone’s craving this season — served with heart. Every order fuels second-chance employment and directly supports St. Philip’s School and Community Center. Feed the crowd and the mission..Cater mission..Cater your next event, your way:
Book the Food Truck
Order Onsite Catering
A live, interactive experience — your guests order fresh off the truck.
Host at Ruthie’s Cafe
Boxes, trays, and setups delivered to your space — no truck required.
RuthiesForGood.com/Group-Ordering
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Book the Cafe, our patio or our conference room.
RuthiesForGood.com/Private-Dining
Monday-Friday: 8am–6pm | Saturday Brunch: 8am–2pm | 1632 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Suite 100 | 214-377-7355
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Glen, Sherri, Tyler Kusak
Brisket and Brew Stuffed Pretzel
The Legacy of This Fourth-Generation Family's Indelible Impact Serves Up Unforgettable State Fair Food
STATE FAIR OF TEXAS STAR ARTICLE BY DAVE MUSCARI
Sharing a review of a last-year’s State Fair of Texas favorite written by Dave Muscari we feature Farm Pac Kitchens and their award winning Brisket and Brew Stuffed Pretzel being served once more this year. As visitors from near and far flock to Fair Park for music, midway rides, football and of course legendary fried creations and other tasty treats. Their food products have been revered staples at the State Fair of Texas and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for years. As one wanders through the rows of vendors and exhibitions of a beloved Texas tradition since1886 so many surprises and delights can be found. On your trek find the way to the distinctive landmark, Hans Mueller Bavarian Garden, a popular annual gathering spot for generations. Be ready for your mouth to start to water. This featured tasty bite is created by taking low smoked brisket, blended with a bold beer cheese which then is all wrapped up in pretzel dough with sea-salt and baked - it’s delightful! This delectable creation was included in the coveted category as a Savory Finalist in the Big Texas Choice Awards. Note that all of the featured favorites from Farm Pac Kitchens can be found at three locations; Hans Mueller Bavarian Garden
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located next to Little Lone Stars, the Farm Pac Booth and the Borracho Nacho Bar in the Cotton Bowl Plaza. Glen and Sherri Kusak, owners of Farm Pac Kitchens in tiny Yoakum, Texas alongside their son Tyler are the “renowned chefs” of this delight. The company has operated since 1947, and was founded by her grandfather. “My grandfather worked hard to create this company. We’re proud of the legacy.” Sherri noted. The multiple Kusak family’s offerings through the years being a part of the State Fair of Texas have earned an award-winning reputation as iconic and enduring as Big Tex Himself. Farm Pac Kitchens is a well-known curator of specialty meats and smoked turkeys, 40 different sausages plus ham and brisket. Mail-order ships all over the U.S., perfect for a special gift or for that extra-special occasion at your own table. The thoughtfully created gift-basket options can provide that more than special thought to those you care for, friends, family or even business associates. The days of receiving a smoked turkey for Christmas is truly right down their alley. FarmPac.com / 1.800.999.6997
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Dogslife Legacy Gala Bent Tree Country Club | 6:00 PM An unforgettable evening benefiting the dogs and the families helped by Dogslife. Our mission is to help families with financial challenges afford critical cancer treatment for their beloved dogs.
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