Celebrating the Joy of Cooking and Exploring New Flavors This Fall
As a wife and mother cooking can be absolutely exhausting and feel like more of a chore at times. From last minute dinner ideas, the quick weekday dinners and the dinners for our picky eaters er as parents can get burned out. I have always loved being in the kitchen and creating my own recipes from scratch perfecting them through the years to someday pass on the to my daughters. I have always tried to introduce new foods and cultures to my girls from a young age and luckily for me my girls have a vast palette and love exploring new foods. I love to host and have friends and family over to share great food and memories with. And every once in a while I nominate my amazing husband to be on the grill or smoker because he does such a phenomenal job and I whip up some amazing sides and dessert to go with it! Great food is something that brings people together from all walks of life and our October Issue is loaded with amazing local restaurants and some delicious recipes to try at home. As we are moving into fall I know I am excited to start my holiday baking, I may or may not have already made a pumpkin pie… it was just too tempting! In honor of the October Food & Beverage issue I encourage everyone to try cooking a new dish or to try a new local restaurant or one you haven’t been to before.
FAITH MORELLO, PUBLISHER @SURPRISECITYLIFESTYLE
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Faith Morello | faith.morello@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kylie Strawn-Badger | kylie.strawn@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Kylie Strawn-Badger
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Benevilla, Osteria Mia, Michael Jordan
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Amapola Judd, Chris Gallegos, Chad Frank, Matt Reeg, Cody Conklin attend The Child Spree event 2: Child Spree, powered by KOHL’S, empowers children with essentials, fostering community support and belonging. 3 – 7: Child Spree empowers children with a shopping spree for essentials, fostering community support through KOHL’S and partnerships.
The Child Spree annual event at KOHL’S.
This annual event, made possible through the collaboration of valued partners such as KOHL’S and SRP. Each year, Child Spree provides children with the opportunity to shop for essential items like shoes, clothes, and other necessities, ensuring they are well-prepared to start the school year with confidence and pride. The success of Child Spree is deeply rooted in the generosity of generous donors, volunteers, community resources, and the drive of the West Valley Mavericks Foundation.
Photography by West Valley Mavericks Foundation
sneakybird is expanding to Prasada at Surprise
sneakybird, a local and family-owned restaurant that opened its doors in the Valley in 2022 and offers a quick, craft, casual approach to signature ovengrilled chicken wings, tenders, and sandwiches complemented by hand crafted flatbreads, tater tots, and fresh chilled veggies. Earlier this year, they partnered with another family to open a location in Gilbert, and in October the group will open in Surprise!
Drybar Grand Opening The Village at Arrowhead
The nation’s premier blow dry bar plans to open its first West Valley location at The Village at Arrowhead this fall. Drybar is known for providing the ulti mate blowout experience, offering a range of signature styles, from classic and sleek to beachy and tousled. Each appointment includes a wash, blowout, and styling, all performed by a highly trained cosmetologist in a sleek and inviting setting.
Photography by Drybar Arrowhead
Photography by sneakybird
ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL JORDAN
A BLEND OF RUSTIC CHARM AND MODERN ENTERTAINMENT
THE CORRAL AT WHITE TANK RANCH
Nestled against the stunning backdrop of White Tank Mountain Regional Park, The Corral at White Tank Ranch is more than just a venue; it’s a destination where the past and present beautifully collide. Originally a working ranch and corral, The Corral was
tomatoes, and a drizzle of spicy mayo. Their quesadillas are another crowd favorite, oozing with melted cheese and packed with fresh fillings. And let’s not forget the fries—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
“WHERE STRANGERS BECOME FRIENDS AND NIGHTS
TURN INTO MEMORIES UNDER THE STARS.”
transformed into a lively gathering space where community, culture, and cuisine come together in harmony.
As you approach The Corral, the dirt-lined road winds through the open landscape, where the vast Arizona sky meets the rustic charm of the ranch. The moment you arrive, you’re greeted by the warm sounds of music and the irresistible scent of smoky BBQ, beckoning you inside.
The Corral’s menu is a testament to the rich flavors of the Southwest, catering to all tastes. Sink your teeth into their famous burgers, made with juicy beef sourced directly from the ranch. These burgers aren’t just any burgers— they’re a bite into the heart of Arizona. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, their chicken sandwiches are a crispy alternative.
For those craving a taste of the Southwest, the Sonoran dogs are a must-try, topped with beans, onions,
The Corral isn’t just about the food; it’s about creating an experience that the whole family can enjoy. They offer a special kids menu that’s designed to please even the pickiest eaters, with mini burgers and kid-sized quesadillas. The little ones are free to dance, play, and explore all that The Corral has to offer.
Speaking of dancing, no visit to The Corral is complete without a night on the dance floor. Every weekend, the venue comes alive with live music from talented local bands and singers, creating an electric atmosphere. The energy is contagious, and before you know it, you’ll find yourself joining in. And if you’re new to dancing, or just want to brush up on your skills, don’t miss the line dancing lessons offered every night at 11:00 PM. These sessions are perfect for learning the classics or mastering the latest trends in a fun, welcoming environment.
For those looking to quench their thirst, The Corral’s bar is a treasure trove of options. With a focus on local craft beers, they offer a rotating selection of brews that showcase the best of Arizona’s craft beer scene. If beer isn’t your drink of choice, the bar also features hard seltzers, perfect for those looking for something light and refreshing. Wine lovers will appreciate the curated selection of reds and whites, each glass offering a taste of the region’s best vineyards. For a more spirited experience, try one of their specialty cocktails, expertly crafted to highlight seasonal flavors. And for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.
When the music starts to fade and the night winds down, The Corral’s latenight menu steps into the spotlight. Designed to satisfy post-dance cravings, the menu features Carne Asada Tacos, bursting with flavor and served with all the fixings. The fish tacos offer a fresh, zesty bite that’s the perfect end to an evening of fun. And for those who prefer to share, the loaded nachos are a crowdpleaser, piled high with toppings and perfect for digging into with friends.
“COME FOR DANCING, STAY FOR FOOD, EMBRACE THE VIEW.”
The future of The Corral at White Tank Ranch looks as bright as the Arizona sun. Exciting developments are on the horizon, with plans underway to expand the property to include an indoor restaurant and brewery. This new addition will offer a cool, comfortable escape year-round, without sacrificing the breathtaking views and rustic charm that The Corral is known for. The expanded menu will feature even more mouthwatering food and drink options, ensuring that The Corral continues to be a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
In the end, The Corral at White Tank Ranch is more than just a place to eat and drink; it’s a celebration of the Arizona lifestyle—a place where good food, great music, and even better company come together in a setting that’s as beautiful as it is welcoming. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, The Corral promises an experience that will keep you coming back, time and time again.
Bringing a Slice of Italy Home
ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY OSTERIA MIA
MARIO RANA’S OSTERIA MIA EXPANDS TO SURPRISE
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Named after our daughter Mia, Osteria Mia reflects our family’s Italian roots and traditions.
Surprise, Arizona’s culinary scene is set to welcome a new gem with the opening of the second Osteria Mia. This authentic Italian restaurant, renowned for its wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and Italian specialties, is the brainchild of Mario Rana, a local resident deeply rooted in the Surprise community.
Mario’s journey into the restaurant business is steeped in family tradition. His grandfather’s move from Italy to New York to open restaurants laid the foundation, with several eateries spanning Manhattan and Brooklyn. The legacy continued when Mario’s parents relocated to Arizona in the late ‘90s, opening multiple restaurants that Mario and his wife helped establish.
The birth of Mario’s daughter Mia marked a turning point, inspiring the creation of Osteria Mia. The name “Osteria,” commonly used in Italy for small, family-owned restaurants serving pasta and wine, was a natural choice. Mia’s name was added, making it a true family affair. As Mario puts it, “Mia will be the first to tell you that it’s her restaurant.”
Osteria Mia’s menu celebrates Italian culinary traditions, with each dish crafted with love and authenticity. The most popular dish is the Lupara, a regional specialty from Puglia, Mario’s grandfather’s hometown. This dish features house-made wine-infused rigatoni, a cream-based tomato sauce, Calabrian chilis, fennel sausage, and cremini mushrooms.
The drink menu is equally impressive, with the Bubblinos—a Prosecco-based wine spritzer with fresh fruit puree and soda water—leading as the
most popular cocktail. An ever-changing wine list filled with Italian varietals, along with a full bar offering craft beer and cocktails, ensures a diverse selection for all tastes.
Mario’s passion shines through in his love for making pizza. Osteria Mia’s wood-fired pizzas, dubbed Neo-Neapolitan style, are a testament to his dedication to quality and tradition. Unlike classic Neapolitan pizza, Osteria Mia’s pizzas are crispier, thanks to the use of higher-gluten Italian flour and beer instead of water in the dough. Topped with San Marzano tomato sauce and house-made mozzarella, it’s a dish that Mario takes particular pride in.
The new Osteria Mia in Surprise is set to be a larger, more expansive version of the original Phoenix location. Mario is excited to bring the same high-quality, house-made pastas, pizzas, salads, and more to this new space. The expansion doesn’t stop there—the Surprise location will also feature a gelateria with a separate entrance for customers to enjoy gelato and Italian ice. Additionally, a small market area will sell house-made pasta and sauces, allowing customers to take a piece of Osteria Mia home with them.
As a proud resident of Surprise, Mario is deeply connected to the community and thrilled to offer something unique to his fellow residents. He understands the desire for independent dining options in an area often dominated by chain restaurants. The new Osteria Mia is his way of giving back to the community that he and his family call home.
Making our Neo-Neapolitan pizza, with its beer-infused dough and crispy crust, is my absolute favorite dish.
When not at the restaurant, Mario cherishes time with his family. He and his wife love to travel, hike, bowl, and even tackle escape rooms together. They’re also fans of snowboarding, attending concerts, and enjoying Arizona’s sunny weather by the pool. Perhaps one of the most heartwarming activities is making pasta with Mia every Sunday—a tradition that speaks to the heart of what Osteria Mia is all about: family, tradition, and love.
While the focus is currently on the successful opening of the new Osteria Mia, Mario has no plans to stop there. With a love for the West Valley and a desire to offer more independent dining options, Mario envisions a future where his concepts continue to thrive.
A steakhouse might be on the horizon, but for now, he’s dedicated to making Osteria Mia in Surprise the go-to spot for authentic Italian cuisine.
As Mario and his family prepare to welcome guests to the new Osteria Mia, it’s clear that this isn’t just about opening a restaurant. It’s about bringing a piece of Italy to Surprise, sharing a passion for good food, and creating a place where everyone feels like part of the family. With its blend of authentic cuisine, family traditions, and community spirit, Osteria Mia is poised to become a beloved fixture in Surprise’s dining landscape, offering residents and visitors alike a taste of Italy in the heart of Arizona.
WHY YOU NEED A REALTOR® IN ARIZONA’S CURRENT HOUSING MARKET
UNLOCKING SMOOTH TRANSACTIONS AND EXPERT GUIDANCE IN THE ARIZONA HOUSING MARKET
ARTICLE BY SHELLEY OSTROWSKI, PRESIDENT WITH ARIZONA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
One of the most important financial transactions you will make is buying or selling your home. The process can seem overwhelming, leaving you with more questions than answers. That’s why the expertise of a REALTOR® can make all the difference in one of life’s most important decisions.
By leveraging local market knowledge, your REALTOR® will provide valuable insights into Arizona’s housing market, including property values, market conditions, and more. We will advise you on community amenities, school district information, local business knowledge, and other relevant factors to help you make an informed and confident decision that aligns with your needs.
REALTORS® act as links during the homebuying journey, coordinating with lenders, inspectors, appraisers, title companies, and other necessary professionals to further the process. As an advocate for our clients, our goal is to ensure a fair and equitable price, while handling the complexities of the transaction.
Ethical standards matter and every REALTOR® is committed to upholding a strict ethical code as a member of The National Association of REALTORS®. This code means that we prioritize our clients’ best interests and guarantee honest, transparent, and professional service throughout the homebuying process.
Whether you’re a buyer or seller, having an experienced and ethical professional by your side ensures informed decisions and smoother transactions. Our expertise, integrity, and commitment mean that you have a trusted ally.
For more information on the benefits of using a REALTOR® and to connect with a qualified professional, visit www.hireAZrealtors.com.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
OCTOBER 4TH – 6TH
Ridge Rider Days
Desert Diamond Arena | 9400 West Maryland Avenue , Glendale , AZ
Don’t miss your chance to witness head-to-head action, a night of wild rides and heart-stopping action 8 seconds at a time. Support your home PBR Team, the Arizona Ridge Riders, as they battle seven other PBR teams for the Ridge Rider Days title.
OCTOBER 5TH
Fiesta Grande
Mark Coronado Park | 15960 N Bullard Ave, Surprise, AZ | 5:00 PM
Celebrating the unique culture and community that are a foundation for the City’s past, present and future. Join them at Mark Coronado Park for authentic Mexican food, lucha libre wresting, mariachi music, dancing, classic car show, piñatas and more!
OCTOBER 11TH – 13TH
The 63rd Original Phoenix Greek Festival
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral | 1973 E. Maryland Avenue Phoenix, AZ
Immerse yourself in the vibrant Greek atmosphere and experience the rich traditions, delicious cuisine, and lively entertainment. From traditional Greek dances to live music performances, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
OCTOBER 13TH
Sunday in the Park
Mark Coronado Park | 15960 N Bullard Ave Surprise, AZ | 3:00 PM
Come enjoy this fun family event with live music from N-The-Mix featuring Steven Powell. Event admission is free; food and drink are available for purchase. Also support local vendors by shopping at the outdoor market!
OCTOBER 25TH – 27TH
AZ Fall Jazz Fest
10020 N. Ball Park Blvd. Glendale, AZ
Join them for an unforgettable week end of music at the AZ Jazz Fest! With an amazing line up you won’t want to miss this event.
OCTOBER 26TH
Grand Opening for The Posh Parlor
The Posh Parlor | 11321 W Bell Road Suite 403, Surprise, AZ | 3:30 PM
Join The Posh Parlor for their grand opening! They will have food, prizes, giveaways and much more!
A BETTER quality of life FOR EVERYONE at every age.
Started by and for our community in 1981, Benevilla enriches the lives of West Valley residents by serving older adults, adults with disabilities, children and the families who care for them.
Benevilla was created as a not-for-profit organization in 1981 by citizens of the Sun Cities area out of concern that local services were not readily available to the community’s residents. Their mission was to promote health and independence by providing supportive services to their neighbors.
Then, a group of 30 volunteers helping with errands and home care services and a handful of employees; today, a network of Life Enrichment Day Programs, various support and educational services, a comprehensive care-management programs and social activities – all supported by more than 500 volunteers and 100+ employees –that seek to help keep people independent and in their own homes. By building a caring community of neighbors helping neighbors, Benevilla is able to provide extensive support services for older adults, adults with disabilities, children, and the families who care for them.
Benevilla programs are supported through donations from individuals, congregations, service clubs, and corporations. These generous individuals and organizations ensure we can meet the needs of our community today and in the future.
Serving the needs of older adults, caregivers and families.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Recognizing and Avoiding Scams
October 15 | 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Smart Year End Tax and Gifting Strategies and Bonus Topic: Does your Portfolio Really Care Who Got Elected? November 7 | 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
AZ Tax Credits and other Smart Ways to Give December 4 | 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER PHOTOGRAPHY BY BENEVILLA
Benevilla. Enriching Lives.
