Dynamic, Delicious Dining
FOOD + BEVERAGE GROUND TO GLASS
FROM CHARLIE PALMER’S HOME
Mom, This One's For You
October is such an amazing time of year. The transition from the warmer summer temps, the growing excitement and anticipation of the holidays, and the sensory experiences of changing colors, light, and scents in the air.
At City Lifestyle, October is also all about food and drink, and this month, we’re excited to bring some amazing restaurants and the people behind them to our pages. Hungry? I hope so!
While I absolutely love this issue of CLR, it also came with some mixed emotions for me. My mom loved food. She also loved reading our magazine every month and trying the establishments featured in our pages, which reminded me of a funny story as I wrote those words.
In March, we featured Marco Brown’s small but mighty downtown outpost Marcolino’s Italia. My mom, having deep Florentine roots, considered herself a connoisseur of “good” Italian food. Olive oil, parmesan, and plenty of garlic were always high on her list of must-haves. She lived on the river, close enough to Marco’s place to walk, and so, unbeknownst to me, she decided to head there one evening, during a driving snowstorm, in an effort to satisfy her craving for Eggplant Parmesan. To her dismay, the eggplant wasn’t on the menu that night so she settled for his Penne alla Vodka. I remember, clear as day, the text I got that evening: “Tried Marcolino’s tonight. Delicious. Love, Mom.” It may have been the shortest text she ever sent me but it put a huge smile on my face.
I was excited for her to see our food issue and hoped it would inspire us to embark on a food adventure (or two!) but sadly, she passed away suddenly last month. It was her time and she was at peace but it felt like the right time for me to say “Mom, this one’s for you."
Please enjoy this edition of City Lifestyle and the experiences on our pages with family and friends. Eat, drink, and be merry. You’ll make my mom a happy woman.
MIKE MCCARTHY, PUBLISHER @CITYLIFESTYLERENO
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Mike McCarthy | mike.mccarthy@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Nora Tarte | nora.tarte@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Britton Griffith, Erin Hanna-Butros Meyering
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Eric Marks, Frey Ranch Photography
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
Frey
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: RSCVA staff and board members with members of Good Giant at the Governor’s Dinner. 2: Friends gathered for a CIFF CineBrunch film and feast event Aug. 17. 3: The owners of Mt. Rose Wine Co. hosted a night at the ballpark to benefit veterans, Aug. 20. 4: Frey Ranch and Wolf Pack Athletics celebrated its collaborative bottle release at Raley's. 5: Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg came to Reno for the Arlington Bridge Project. 6: Members of the DRP met with Hillary Schieve, Phil MacDougall and Zach Cheer. 7: Ila Achtabowski and Nicole King with SilverSummit HealthPlan scholarship recipients on July 23.
ANGELA RUDOLPH
MIKE ALT ALT
DOWNTOWN RENO PARTNERSHIP
BRIAN BOSMA
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Ground to Glass
FREY RANCH CO-FOUNDERS SHARE THEIR FAVORITE AMERICAN WHISKEY COCKTAILS FOR FALL
ARTICLE BY NORA HESTON TARTE PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC MARKS, FREY PHOTOGRAPHY
Colby and Ashley Frey, the power couple behind the Frey Ranch Distillery brand, are no strangers to farming. Colby’s family has been tilling land in Northern Nevada since 1854 (before Nevada was even a state) and Frey Ranch started whiskey production in 2014, which means the brand is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, and especially this fall during harvest season (late September to early October). In 2024, Frey Ranch will finish about 300,000 bottles and place 1.3 million bottles into barrels to start the aging process.
With 2,500 acres to farm everything that goes into the glass including corn, wheat, rye, barley, and oats, Frey Ranch serves what Colby refers to as “ground to glass” whiskey.
When it comes to cocktails, the couple are sipping whiskey-based drinks like The Ranch Hand, Ashley’s personal favorite, a refreshing sipper that’s less whiskey forward but with plenty of acid. On the other hand, Colby takes his whiskey neat. Read on for some of their favorite recipes.
Warden 1854
This is Frey Ranch Distillery’s version of the classic Ward 8 Cocktail.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 oz. Frey Ranch Straight Rye Whiskey
• 0.5 oz. fresh lemon juice
• 0.5 oz. fresh grapefruit juice
• 0.5 oz. Liquid Alchemist Strawberry Syrup
• 1 dash of aromatic bitters
DIRECTIONS
First, combine Frey Ranch Straight Rye Whiskey, freshly squeezed lemon juice, freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, strawberry syrup, and aromatic bitters into your favorite shaker. Once shaken, strain into a chilled coupe glass, garnish with a fresh grapefruit peel, and enjoy!
Ranch Hand
Frey Ranch Distillery’s version of a Gold Rush.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 oz. of Frey Ranch Bourbon
• 0.75 oz. fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 oz. honey syrup (1:1 honey to warm water)
• 1 dash of aromatic bitters
• Freshly sliced lemon twist for garnish
DIRECTIONS
Build all ingredients and shake with ice. Strain into a chilled rocks glass and garnish with fresh lemon peel.
Sun Dog
INGREDIENTS
• 1.5 oz. Frey Ranch Straight Bourbon
• 1 oz. lemon juice
• 0.5 oz. freshly squeezed orange juice
• 0.75 oz. basil syrup
• 0.75 oz. mint syrup
• 1 oz. sparkling water
• Fresh basil sprig and mint crown garnish
DIRECTIONS
Add Frey Ranch Bourbon, lemon juice, orange juice, and mint syrup to a Collins glass. Fill ice to top of the glass and top with sparkling water. Use fresh basil sprig and mint crown for garnish.
Old Fashioned
INGREDIENTS
• 2 oz. of Frey Ranch Bourbon
• 0.3 oz. honey syrup (1:1 honey to warm water)
• 2 dashes of aromatic bitters
DIRECTIONS
Combine honey syrup and bitters in a rocks glass. Add large ice cube or sphere, top with whiskey and stir well. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and orange slice.
FROM CHARLIE'S HOME TO YOUR STOMACH
Charlie Palmer shares recipes from his kitchen and wines from his vineyard
ARTICLE BY ERIN HANNA-BUTROS MEYERING
“The Reno-Tahoe area may be a smaller town, but the food scene is percolating!” Chef Charlie Palmer explains. Although he spends his hours consulting (currently) 14 bars and restaurants, he’s spent quite a bit of time in the Biggest
“It’s all about hospitality, cooking is just a part of that.”
Little City as his restaurant rolodex includes Charlie Palmer Steak, which opened inside the Grand Sierra Resort in 2007.
Mr. Palmer, and after interviewing him, Charlie, has a culinary resume one can only dream of. And with humble beginnings, growing up in a small farming community in upstate New York, for decades he’s let his talent (and kind demeanor) trickle from his flagship restaurant, Aureole, in New York City branch out into the rooftop bar and hotel industries.
CONTINUALLY PIVOTING
“It’s all about hospitality, and cooking is just a part of that,” he says confidently.
His most-recent venture, alongside his trusty team, is set to open in June 2025. Appellation hotel is in his current home base of Healdsburg, Calif. It’s where
service, atmosphere, treatment, and now technology (alongside great food) all combine to create a memorable experience. While it’s just a hop, skip, and jump away (approximately a four and a half hour trek from Reno), he says his group is always keeping an eye on the Biggest Little market and sees potential expansion opportunity there.
Regardless if it manifests in a restaurant, bar, hotel, or something else, Charlie is passionate about keeping things fresh, both veggies and ideas. That’s why his steakhouse menus not only feature all you’d expect from a steakhouse—red wine paired with perfectly cooked filet and a slab of buttery potatoes, but also include various fish, vegetable dishes, and sides honoring the variety of ingredients available.
This creativity comes from his travels, experiences, and great collaborations within the CONTINUED >
industry. Essentially, despite success, Charlie never rests on his laurels. The one thing that’s tied all of his ventures together, that love of regional and American ingredients, access to quality food, and embracing the bounty of the season. And it’s this methodology, and carefully crafted partnerships, that have gotten him far.
BUILDING FUTURE LEADERS
Boasting could come quite naturally for Charlie, with two James Beard wins, an additional three nominations, and many Michelin Stars. But, when asked about his accomplishments, he says he is actually “most proud of the people who have come out of our businesses.”
This spirit of giving back to the next generation isn’t anything new, either. Palmer has served as a trustee of the Culinary Institute of America for 12 years and a Chairman Emeriti for an additional nine years. There, now with a vast imprint and four campuses, Charlie has taught, watched, and learned, surely influencing his tastes, love of wine, and restaurant directionality.
His latest (home) passion is experimenting with donabe (or clay pot) cooking. While, for years, he cooked for his wife Lisa and four boys (along with the entire football team it seemed), he now enjoys cooking for Lisa and a few friends, whether it’s complex broths or humble rices with vegetables and ingredients from their bountiful home garden.
“I made the decision to become a chef early on in life, really just because I fell in love with food.”
PUTTING THE WINE IN DINE
“I’m a true believer as a chef, and culinarian… we’re only as good as the ingredients we start with,” says Palmer. His home life is headquartered in Healdsburg, mostly for the access to his vineyard, which produces small batch Pinot Noir for his restaurants. What started out as a well-paired hobby has evolved into a sweet return. Seventeen vintages later, he says he’s making world-class pinot noir and still enjoying every second of it.
Sonoma County, where Healdsburg is located, is also a mecca for easily grown gardens and farmers market-fresh ingredients. It’s where Charlie is able to continually draw inspiration for wine-forward tasting menus.
And if you’re curious (like I was) if the famous culinarian is watching Hulu’s popular TV show, The Bear (on FX or Hulu)… he is. While many in the industry have critiqued its harsh depiction of the atmosphere in kitchens, Palmer takes a lighter route in his viewing, saying that anything that brings awareness and excitement to your craft can be entertaining but also positive for the industry as a whole. And that’s Charlie—taking it all in, and with ingenuity and well-researched guise, throwing it back for us all to enjoy.
CHARLIE PALMER STEAK
Inside Grand Sierra Resort Reno, NV Grandsierraresort.com
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ARTICLE BY ERIN HANNA-BUTROS MEYERING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC MARKS
LA CONDESA FUSES MEXICAN ART AND FLAVOR
DYNAMIC, DELICIOUS DINING
“THE
When you walk into La Condesa, it feels as if you’re walking into a vibrant neighborhood gathering… great music, beautiful space adorned with clever art, and a room full of engaged people with colorful food and drink. What it
burgers, as well as carefully crafted vegan-friendly entrees like Tacos Mushrooms Al Pastor. It’s one of those menus where you may have a difficult time deciding, and (if you’re like me) take notes on what you’d order next
BEAUTIFUL INTERIOR YOU’VE SEEN IN PHOTOS IS INSPIRED BY OUR VISION TO CREATE AN INVITING ATMOSPHERE.”
promises is exactly what owners Sergio Romero and Cesar Perez intended when they opened in March 2022—to model the La Condesa area in the southwest of central Mexico City. Here, tree-lined avenues, art deco buildings, and cutting-edge shops/restaurants give life to the chic people that inhabit it.
“What makes La Condesa unique is our commitment to providing an exceptional blend of food, art, and music from around the world, creating a diverse and vibrant dining experience,” says chef and co-owner Sergio Romero.
“We are also incredibly grateful to our friends Ivette Valenzuela and Federico Lopez for allowing us to showcase their amazing artwork throughout the space, which adds to the unique ambiance of La Condesa Eatery.”
Although it’s plain to see the Mexican-inspired influence (a nod to the owners’ roots), La Condesa offers a wide variety of cuisine including elevated pizza, pasta, meat-heavy dishes like a Black Angus Rib Eye and
time, already planning a return for all the food left untasted.
If I could write 500 words about one of the newest menu additions: the cauliflower aquachile, I would. Think spicy, complex, bright, and literally finger-licking good. In addition to flavorful appetizers, there are several distinct menu items including the Gnocchi Al Cilantro, which features Parmesan gnocchi, avocado, braised spinach, chorizo, and shaved pecorino, as well as the Pear and Applewood Smoked Cheese Pizza.
Another favorite is the Chopped Thai Salad, which was unexpected, but again well-thought out with kale, cabbage, basil, mint, cilantro, cashews, shaved root vegetables, mango, sweet peppers, avocado, sesame seeds, and a not-too-sweet Thai peanut vinaigrette. As far as what the chef recommends…
“When it comes to my favorite items on the menu, it’s a tough choice, but I highly recommend our Spanish octopus, tuna ceviche, and any of our tacos,
CONTINUED >
which are always crowd-pleasers, says Romero. “For drinks, I absolutely love the Tamarindo Rush, and nothing beats a margarita on a hot summer day!”
And if you’re not a drinker, don’t let the cocktail menu overwhelm, the bartenders can make nearly any drink non-alcoholic, no problem.
Between the continual flow of people celebrating life, anniversaries, and birthdays; as well as the large patio, fresh vibe, photogenic food, and ode to tequila and mezcal (take a peak on the spirits menu and in the back room), La Condesa is a spot tucked away, but well-cherished. And, it’s ready to be discovered.
“We want to express our gratitude to our community for their support throughout this journey [of opening a restaurant],” says Romero. “It truly means the world to us!”
1642 S. Wells Ave., Reno Lacondesaeatery.com
LA CONDESA EATERY
Reno locals spill the beans on where they most like to eat
What is the Best Local Dining Location?
What better time to fall in love with a local eatery than autumn? As cooler temperatures arrive, put these cozy and yummy places on your must-eat list. With so many delicious options to choose from, keep it Reno and take a bite from spots with long histories, a variety of menus, and incredible staff to make you want to return as a regular all season long.
ARTICLE BY BRITTON GRIFFITH
Debra A Moddelmog, University of Nevada
"Our favorite place to eat in Reno is Johnny’s Ristorante Italiano. The drinks are always delicious as is the food from the wide-ranging menu. We also like the options of eating in the restaurant, the bar, or the patio. And we love the history of the place; in business since 1966, it has a lot of character and charm. Plus, it’s close to our home!
Alex C. Woodley M.S, Director, Parking & Code Enforcement Department, City of Reno
"My favorite local spot is Tacos Jalisco. They are located in the North Valleys at 551 E. Moana Ln. I got to meet the owner, Rigo. It is family-owned, and my favorite dish is the Chicken Enchilada Traditional. It is not spicy but has a little sweet tang. It comes with refried beans and rice. I love their Cadillac margarita, too.
Jim DeVolld, Managing Director, First Independent Bank, A Division Of Western Alliance Bank
“There are so many great places. My top favorites are:
Pinocchio’s: Casual lunch or dinner with the owners making sure everyone is having a good time. Food and atmosphere are always great. Palais de Jade: Food is excellent even though I get the Chicken Chow Mein for lunch every time I’m in. They don’t even ask me what I want anymore.
Cup Café: No contest—hands down the best breakfast in Northern Nevada. The owners are ladies with big smiles and serve some amazing food. You must try the homemade sausage patty!
Brick’s: I know it is old school Reno but the white table cloths, great food, and fantastic, knowledgeable staff make this my go to place to eat! The bar at Brick’s is beautiful and welcoming. The mushroom caps are the best appetizer in town!”
Luxury Has Arrived
Behind these welcoming gates is a collection of 24 estate homesites, several of which include bespoke architectural designs for landmark residences. Glenhaven is the long-awaited opportunity to enjoy the luxuries of space, privacy, and panoramic views of the Sierra, all in a location that’s accessible to conveniences (and tax-advantaged!). Come, walk the land and stake your claim to Reno’s most desirable new address.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS OCTOBER 2024
MULTIPLE DATES
Dragon Ligles
Wilbur D. May Arboretum
Throughout the entire month of October, families can take in the bright lights at this annual Reno event. Held at the arboretum, giant light displays are erected across the arboretum lawns including interactive spectacles.
OCTOBER 4TH - 6TH
Nugget Casino Resort
Oktoberfest
Nugget Casino Resort
Join the masses for this epic cultural event. The Nugget is hosting an entire weekend of brew tasting, stein cheersing, and other fun activities. Plus, live music will rock the event.
OCTOBER 5TH
Sierra Arts Foundation Dinner on the Bridge
Virginia Street Bridge | 6:00 PM
Chef Moe and Chef Maurice Larimer, of Bravo TV Top Chef fame, will feed guests while local establishments provide the drinks. The entire event will take place on the Virignia Street Bridge overlooking the Truckee River and support the Sierra Arts Foundation and its artists for the month of October.
THROUGH OCTOBER 13TH
POTUS by Selina Fillinger
Reno Little Theater
“POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive,” finishes its run at the Reno Little Theater this month.
OCTOBER 15TH
Steve-O
Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts | 7:00 PM
Steve-O is bringing his larger-thanlife personality and comedic chops to the Pioneer Center stage. The actor and comedian, who made a name for himself starring on MTV’s Jackass, will perform in Reno for one night only.
OCTOBER 18TH
Veterans Guest House
Champagne Luncheon
Atlantis Casino Resort Spa | 11:00 AM
Lunch, champagne, and a fashion show will be held at the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa to benefit Veterans Guest House, a nonprofit that helps veterans and their families seeking medical care in the Reno/Sparks area.
OCTOBER 19TH
10th Annual Grand Sierra
Beer & Chili Festival
Grand Sierra Resort | 1:00 PM
Gather at the pool to enjoy heaping bowls of piping hot chili and a collection of brews, many from local and regional establishments. The annual event gives back to the Reno Rodeo Foundation.
CONTINUED
THROUGH OCTOBER 20TH
“Support Group for Men” by Ellen Fairey
Reno Little Theater
Follow along with the trials and tribulations of a group of middle-aged men who attend a Thursday night support group together, in this vulnerable comedy.
OCTOBER 24TH
Harry Potter & The Sorcerer’s Stone in Concert
Grand Theater, Grand Sierra Resort | 7:00 PM
Watch the first Harry Potter film accompanied by a live symphony orchestra. The Reno Philharmonic will perform scores from the film while momentous scenes from the film play on screen.
OCTOBER 26TH - 27TH
Nevada Day Parade & Celebration
Downtown Carson City Head to the State Capitol to celebrate the Battle Born state. Thousands gather to watch the parade—filled with floats, marching bands, and equestrian teams—and then stay for a day filled with activities and entertainment.
SUSTAINING COMMUNITY. SHARING A TABLE.
UNITED HAND IN HAND AGAINST HUNGER