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The Food & Drink Issue O C TO B E R 2 02 6

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OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

LIFESTYLE LETTER

A Season to Savor Welcome, fall! As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures cool, our cravings shift toward comforting flavors that warm both body and soul. October is one of our most delectable issues of the year, and this month we’re celebrating the food and drink that make our community such a delight for the senses. We had the privilege of sitting down with Greg James and Jared DeWolf to learn all about their four concepts in Waconia. Their restaurants offer something for everyone and are overflowing with delicious dishes. I hope you enjoy learning more about their stories, their success, and plans for the future. We’ve also included a summary of several other restaurant options to enjoy locally, and they are all awesome! If you’re in the mood for an amazing burger, mouthwatering pasta, top notch seafood, or maybe a wood fired pizza – and of course paired with a glass of wine, an ice cold beer or an amazing craft cocktail, we have you covered! For me, fall represents the perfect time to round up family and friends and experience all our community has to offer. There’s something about getting back to routine after an amazing summer, transitioning to sunny crisp days, and cheering on our local sports teams. Whether it’s getting out for Friday night lights, tailgating at a Gophers game, or cheering on our beloved Purple, none of it is the same without a killer recipe for barbecue ribs at a tailgate or an amazing meal at one of our local establishments. Food and drink have a unique way of connecting us as friends and as a community. So, whether you’re enjoying a meal out with friends or hosting a cozy dinner at home, these shared moments are what make life flavorful. Here’s to fall, cheers!

M AT T S H A E F F E R , P U B L I S H E R @ WAC O N I AC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

October 2026 PUBLISHER

Matt Shaeffer matt.shaeffer@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Lauren Beaubaire lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily McKeever, Amanda Wagner, Lauren Beaubaire

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Waconia City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Waconia area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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Publications’ opinions. 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 Waconia City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue OC TOB E R 2 02 6 | FOOD & D R I N K

30 Featured

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

The People Behind the Plate

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Meet the restaurateurs behind four local favorites creating welcoming places where the community comes together.

Business Monthly

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE

Inspired By FOOD + BEVERAGE

Our Town FOOD + BEVERAGE

A Place to Belong

Local Limelight HEALTH + WELLNESS

Locally Sourced FOOD + BEVERAGE

Events

Raise a Glass to Whiskey

How the Waconia Breakfast Club is bringing students and the community together

At Winchester & Rye, a family history and a passion for purposeful pairings come together

On the Cover We sit down with local restaurateurs Jared DeWolf and Greg and Bria James to explore the delicious impact they’re making on the Waconia dining scene.

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OCTOBER 2026

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1-7: It was another fantastic summer in Waconia and Victoria! The Waconia Rodeo came to town, Christmas came early as sponsors of Christmas in Excelsior enjoyed an appreciation cruise aboard Paradise Charter Cruises, and it was an unforgettable evening of music, community, and purpose at the 3rd Annual Better Together Benefit Concert & Auction, supporting the Eva Sophia Project, which builds opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities.

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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

The Votes Are In and Schram Vineyards Wins Big! Congratulations to Schram Vineyards, the 2026 Minnesota’s Best Gold Winner for Best View and Best Winery! Minnesota’s Best is the Star Tribune's annual people’s choice awards program that highlights local businesses, services, and attractions across more than 350 categories, awarding gold, silver, and bronze in each group. We’re proud that Waconia’s own Schram Vineyards took home gold in both categories—it’s no surprise to anyone who has visited, given their beautiful setting, delicious fare, and welcoming hospitality.

Scan to read more Photography by Maria Claire Media

Congratulations to LuceLine Orchard! And the winning continues with LuceLine Orchard! They took home Gold for Best Orchard in Star Tribune’s 2026 Minnesota’s Best award program and Top 3 Best Places to go Apple Picking in the State by Mpls St.Paul Magazine! Luceline Orchard is the home to fun activities, delicious apples, and other attractions that make for a picturesque and memory-making fall day. Make sure to add a trip to LuceLine this fall!

Scan to read more Photography by Maria Claire Media CONTINUED >

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business monthly CONTINUED

Happy 20th Anniversary to Sage Flooring It’s been 20 years of amazing service, high-quality work, gorgeous flooring, and happy customers at Sage Flooring. From new builds to fresh updates, Sage Flooring, your local flooring resource, offers a wide selection of flooring options along with professional installation for homes and businesses. Congratulations on your 20th anniversary, and cheers to many more years of success!

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The People Behind the Plate

Restaurateurs Greg James and Jared DeWolf

Meet the restaurateurs behind Bode Gray’s, Iron Tap, Green Fox Grille, and Bakery Off Main who are creating places where the community comes together. ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

A great restaurant is never just about what’s on the plate. It’s about the people who take the risk to open the doors, the teams who turn an idea into a dining experience, and the community that keeps coming back. In Waconia, we’re incredibly lucky to have a thriving restaurant community, thanks in large part to passionate people behind the scenes who aren’t afraid to try something new and create places where friends and family want to gather. For restaurateurs Jared DeWolf and Greg and Bria James, it’s about putting down roots in a community they love — getting to know their neighbors, supporting local families, creating jobs, and helping shape a downtown where people want to spend time. And at the heart of it all are the restaurants themselves: Bode Gray’s, Iron Tap, Green Fox Grille, and Bakery Off Main. “As restaurant owners, it means more than serving food. It’s about giving people a reason to stay in Waconia for date nights, celebrations, or a quick morning treat instead of driving elsewhere,” says Jared, Co-Owner and General Manager of Bode Gray’s and The Brass Hat. “We’ve seen the town grow quickly, and we want to contribute to places that feel welcoming.” And while each of these restaurants has its own personality, they all share a common goal: giving people a

reason to gather close to home. At Bode Gray’s and The Brass Hat, that means creating a true destination for elevated Italian dining and a unique nightlife experience. “We’ve taken an old building and given it new life,” says Greg, co-owner at Bode Gray’s. “It’s a great place not only for the slow Tuesdays to grab a meal, but we also see many families and friends coming to celebrate something big in their lives.” The upstairs offers refined yet approachable Italian food and pizza in a warm, stylish setting, while the basement speakeasy offers craft cocktails, live music, and that special “hidden gem” feeling. Jared recommends the artisan pizza, specifically the Margherita or a Classico with the scratch-made crust. “The crust is consistently praised as outstanding, and it captures what we do best.” Behind the menus at several of these restaurants is Chef Jon Boetel, whose influence stretches well beyond a single kitchen. He has helped develop and elevate the menu at Bode Gray’s, bringing “consistency, creativity, and a high standard” to the Italian fare and pizza guests rave about, says Jared. Jon brings that same experience to Iron Tap and Green Fox Grille, creating thoughtful menus tailored to each restaurant. And the talent behind the food extends beyond the savory side of the menu. Pastry Chef ScotLynn Sievers, a Waconia native, culinary school graduate, and owner of Sievers Sweets, has elevated CONTINUED >

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

the bakery side of the operation at Bakery Off Main while also creating pastries and desserts for Green Fox Grille and Bode Gray’s. Located inside Bode Gray’s, Bakery Off Main offers scratch-made pastries, breakfast items, and fast-casual lunch options. “My motto is scratch-made, intentional, and local,” says ScotLynn. “It’s hard to narrow down a favorite, as it takes vigorous time, thorough planning, patience, and a whole lotta butter to make it work.” But if you need a place to start, ScotLynn’s cinnamon rolls, seasonal cakes, or the viral cookie dough croissant are must-tries. With the fall season here, expect new flavors and treats. “Seasons are what keep a chef’s palate new. In fall, the ingredients get that much deeper, the smells in the kitchen get stronger, and everyone eats a little more. I am excited to share all of our new seasonal menus coming out,” says ScotLynn.

“It’s about giving people a reason to stay in Waconia for date nights, celebrations, or a quick morning treat instead of driving elsewhere.” 16

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Chef Jon Boetel

Pastry Chef ScotLynn Sievers

Combining Bode’s and the Bakery under one roof gives locals a one-stop place that starts with coffee and cinnamon rolls and ends with pizza or cocktails. “Together they’ve become community living rooms,” says Jared. “Places where people mark milestones, run into friends, and feel connected to Waconia’s story.” That sense of connection runs through all four restaurants, even as each has carved out its own identity. At Iron Tap, that means a craft-driven take on the food people crave, from smoked BBQ and creative burgers to tacos, hearty entrées, and plenty of shareable favorites, all alongside cocktails and 38 craft beers on tap. “We’ve had so many memories in the 11 years of being open,” says Greg, who also owns Iron Tap. The relaxed, inviting atmosphere at Iron Tap makes it the perfect place to grab a beer after work, hang with friends, and unwind on the weekend. “When someone walks through our doors, we always want them to feel welcome. We hope no one feels out of place, and that they also know they are going to leave happy!” That includes the group of 30 who have joined Iron Tap’s annual beer club. “Every winter the group comes together to share a glass of beer and the love of craft beer culture,” says Greg. The newest addition to the group has a different setting, and a different rhythm. Green Fox Grille (GFG) opened this past winter at Island View Golf Club, bringing Jon’s food and ScotLynn’s desserts to a space where golfers and the broader Waconia community can gather year-round. The full-service restaurant is open to both club members and the public, with a menu that ranges from shareable bites like Steak Tips and Chipotle Chicken Nachos to sandwiches, burgers, and entrées like Pan Fried Walleye. For club members, GFG offers a truly special experience. “We host Island View events unique to the club members, and it’s always a good time,” says Greg. And while the course will be closed for the winter season, GFG plans on hosting a number of fun events, including weekly trivia and Christmas events. “The restaurant business is exciting and keeps you on your toes daily and weekly with its challenges and tasks,” says Greg. But for this group, there’s something especially rewarding about building these businesses together.

“Jared and I both share a love for the dining culture and complement each other with our different strengths,” says Greg. Jared says that partnership is a big part of what has made their growth possible. “Greg and Bria bring deep experience running multiple successful Waconia businesses, strong operational know-how, and a clear vision for creating welcoming, community-focused spaces. The combination of proven multi-unit experience with fresh energy and local roots has let us take on bigger projects while staying true to what Waconia needs.” And ultimately, it’s the community they’re building for that makes it all worthwhile. “Creating true community hubs and places where locals can have a special night out has been especially meaningful,” says Jared. “Seeing the regulars who return and the new faces who become regulars is the best part.” bodegrays.com bakeryoffmain.com irontapmn.com greenfoxgrille.com

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A PLACE TO BELONG How the Waconia Breakfast Club is bringing students and the community together, one Friday morning at a time ARTICLE BY AMANDA WAGNER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALYSSA THEISEN

I NSP IR E D BY | FO O D + BE VE RAGE

On Friday mornings, before the first bell rings at Waconia High School, dozens of students are already gathering across the street at Koch Bus Service. The doors open at 7:20 am, and breakfast is served. Students fill their plates with

a generous breakfast and connect with classmates and friends while an icebreaker warms the crowd. After a hot meal, they open Bibles, provided at each seat, to follow along as a speaker shares a message of hope and encouragement. Around 8 am, after a

closing prayer, students walk together across the parking lot to the high school. It is part breakfast, part connection, and part encouragement for whatever the school day ahead might bring. For parent Stephanie Armstrong, that combination is exactly the point. The idea for Waconia Breakfast Club came from a similar parent-led club in St. Michael-Albertville, where hundreds of students regularly attend, for more than a decade. Stephanie and her husband, along with many others, watched the STMA Breakfast Club grow and eventually connected with the organizers to learn more, wondering if the concept could work in Waconia, too. “Knowing how much stress and social pressure the average teenager faces, they wanted to create a place where students felt welcomed and loved, with a simple but consistent message: God sees you. God knows you. God loves you. From the beginning, Breakfast Club was bigger than the Armstrongs. Over six weeks in spring 2025, a group of local parents met and rallied around the same vision, working together to turn the idea into something tangible. They considered launching in fall 2025, but Stephanie says the logistics quickly fell into place, and they agreed to launch with a preview of Breakfast Club on May 30, 2025, three months earlier than planned. Still, no one knew whether students would actually come. Just one week before the first gathering, organizers launched an Instagram account, encouraged their own kids to spread the word, and sent plenty of texts to other parents. On the final Friday of the school year, 180 students showed up. “We were blown away,” Stephanie says. That first morning also offered an early glimpse of how quickly the broader community would embrace the idea. A local restaurant supplied hash browns. Community members donated roasters, volunteered to serve, and helped prepare food. That support continued throughout the club’s first year. Attendance averaged around 150 students each week and reached a high of 188. Some students rarely miss a Friday; others come depending on sports, activities, or their schedules. New faces continue to show up. And organizers make a point of noticing them. Volunteers intentionally welcome students as they walk through the door, learn their names, and make sure no one is left standing alone. “We don’t want anyone to slip in unnoticed,” Stephanie says. “We want everyone to feel seen and welcomed.” That sense of belonging can matter deeply during the high school years. Volunteers have watched students connect with classmates outside their normal

social circles and discover shared interests or beliefs. She has also seen students arrive while navigating grief, difficult diagnoses, academic pressure, and the everyday stress of being a teenager. “Our prayer is that Breakfast Club can become a refuge for any student, and a place they feel comfortable bringing their friends. We offer a great breakfast, yes, but more importantly, we want to offer them hope for their soul through the truth of God’s Word and a community that loves them, “ Stephanie says. Of course, feeding roughly 150 hungry teenagers every time is no small undertaking. Volunteers have created systems for everything, from breakfast preparation to weekly RSVPs, so that organizers can plan carefully and steward donated funds well. That preparation includes a team of aptly named “monkey bread makers,” who turn out six batches each, delivering the students’ favorite menu item before 7 am, while another volunteer makes the Friday morning hash brown run to a local restaurant. Businesses and individuals have also stepped in to sponsor breakfasts, including Martin Cole, a financial advisor with Thrivent in Waconia. “I originally heard about the Breakfast Club up in St. Michael-Albertville and was amazed at the growth of this club,” Martin says. “When I was told that they were starting a Breakfast Club in Waconia, I wanted to support these efforts any way that I could.” For the Waconia Breakfast Club team, that community investment is pivotal to what makes the club possible. Parents tell organizers that Friday mornings have become a meaningful part of their children’s high school experience, after just one year. Churches have provided volunteers and financial support. Others donate, prepare food, arrive at 6 am to set up, stay to tear down afterward, or simply spread the word. As Breakfast Club enters another school year, organizers hope even more parents and community members will join them and support this team effort. With roughly 1,200 students at Waconia High School, there are plenty of young people to reach, and Stephanie hopes every student knows that Breakfast Club is a place where they are known, seen, and loved — by volunteers and by God. “We never want a high school student in Waconia to graduate and think nobody knew me and nobody cared,” she says. In a community where families value that small-town sense of connection and hope, Breakfast Club offers another place for students to experience it… one Friday morning, one serving of monkey bread, and one familiar face at a time. waconiabreakfastclub.com

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YOUR LOCAL RESTAURANT ROUNDUP

Waconia and the Victoria area know how to bring people to the table. Whether you’re craving a wood-fired pizza, a juicy burger, spicy tacos, sushi, or a leisurely dinner with friends, there’s no shortage of delicious options close to home. Here are some local favorites!

WINCHESTER & RYE

Best known for its wood-fired pizzas and whiskey lounge, Winchester & Rye is a go-to for just about any occasion. Settle in and explore their menu of elevated American favorites, or grab a drink and stay awhile. winchesterandrye.com

BODE GRAY'S

Bringing elevated Italian dining to downtown Waconia, choose from rich pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and Italian-inspired favorites before heading downstairs to The Brass Hat for craft cocktails, live music, and a little late-night fun. bodegrays.com

GREEN FOX GRILLE

Golf-course views, Lake Waconia sunsets, and a menu that goes well beyond typical clubhouse fare? We’re in. Green Fox Grille serves up custom-blend burgers, hand-crafted sandwiches, seafood, and more, alongside tap beers and seasonal cocktails. greenfoxgrille.com

IRON TAP

Iron Tap pours 38 craft beers alongside creative cocktails and a menu of smoked wings, BBQ , burgers, sandwiches, and more. Try the Big Tom, loaded with smoked brisket, fried cheese curds, house BBQ , and Gouda fondue. irontapmn.com

LOLA'S LAKEHOUSE

Lakeside dining at its best, pull up a chair for fresh seafood, premium steaks, and seasonal ingredients. Add a cocktail and a spot overlooking the water, and you may never want to leave. lolaslakehouse.com

SCHRAM VINEYARDS & BONFIRE AND BARREL

Sip hand-crafted, award-winning wines with a gorgeous view of the vineyard, then head inside to Bonfire and Barrel for shareable boards, handcrafted pizzas, entrees, weekend brunch, and a full bar with wine, beer, and cocktails. schramvineyards.com

LAUNCHPAD GOLF THE MEADOWS

You don’t need to be a golfer to come enjoy everything this restaurant offers. Grab a burger, tacos, or a flatbread, order a cocktail, catch the game, and get ready for a great night out. launchpadgolf.com/minnesota/the-meadows/restaurant

O UR TOWN | FO O D + BEV E RAGE

OMNI BREWERY & TAPROOM

Beer. Wine. Pizza. Coffee. Need we say more? Omni is your neighborhood brewery for great drinks, good food, and even better company. omnibrewing.com/ location/victoria

SOVEREIGN ESTATE WINERY

Sip your way through Minnesota-grown wines, grab a bite from the Patio Bistro, or dine in one of the Courtyard Cabanas for a relaxed afternoon among the vines with friends. sovereignestatewine.com

OLIVE & ELM

The perfect spot for quick lunches, family dinners, and weekend brunch, Olive & Elm is serving up a refreshing twist on casual fine dining with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and locally-sourced meats. oliveandelmrestaurant.com

BUDDY BOY FINE BARBEQUE

BBQ lovers, this is your place. Enjoy high-quality, crafted, farm-to-fire foods, using the tenderest meat and freshest vegetables. buddyboybarbeque.com

MOLLY'S

A chef-owned gem in St. Bonifacius, Molly’s is all about scratch-made food, thoughtful sourcing, and a menu that follows the seasons. From fresh Alaskan seafood and walleye to house-made desserts and an impressive wine selection, every dish reflects Chef Molly’s passion for great ingredients and creative cooking. mollysmn.com

THE NOBLE LION

Classic American dining gets a refined twist with mains like Steak Au Poivre to casual favorites like the French Onion Burger. And for fans of craft cocktails and high-end liquor, be sure to check out the Lion’s Den across the patio. thenoblelion.com

VIC'S BAR AND GRILL

This neighborhood joint keeps things casual with juicy burgers, classic pub favorites, cold drinks, and a laid-back patio overlooking Steiger Lake. facebook.com/vicsbar

BLUE AGAVE

With a space as memorable as its menu, Blue Agave serves up fresh, authentic Mexican favorites, from street tacos and enchiladas to seafood and handcrafted margaritas. It’s an easy pick for a fun date night or family outing. blueagave.us

From wood-fired pizza and BBQ to tacos, seafood, burgers, and more, discover some of our favorite local spots to pull up a chair OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

FREE ADMISSION & PARKING! Friendly Dogs on a leash welcome!

VOTED MINNESOTA’S BEST APPLE ORCHARD FOR 2026!

FREE Live music most weekends! Dinosaur lovers get lost in our 13 acre Jurassic Farm Corn Maze! Great Foods, Cocktails, FUN! Open Wed-Sun

8/29/26- 11/1/26 Local family owned. www.lucelineorchard.com

I F YO U A R E READING THIS... S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

2 OU T OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

ADVERTISE WITH WACONIA CITY LIFESTYLE™ LEARN MORE AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/WACONIA

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

The Donuts in Victoria Chat Series brews up coffee, conversation, and community connections

A SWEET WAY TO CONNECT ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER Connection, fun, and coffee and donuts? Where do we sign up? Paige Whalen, Communications Specialist for the City of Victoria, says what began as a simple monthly chat has become a vital way for the City and the community to build relationships and strengthen connections. Mirrored after programs like Donuts with Deputies, the Donuts in Victoria Chat Series offers residents an informal, welcoming way to connect with local officials and community partners. And with topics like How Community Committees Shape Victoria, Spring Cleaning with Carver County, and a Chat with the Mayor, that Bavarian cream long john isn’t the only thing worth coming back for. On the third Wednesday of every month from 9:00 am to 10:00 am at the Victoria Recreation Center, you’ll find community members coming together to learn, ask questions, and visit over coffee and donuts. “Each month features a different topic, with a short presentation from staff or a partner organization followed by time for questions and conversation,” Paige explains. She says attendance was modest when the program began, but participation has steadily grown over the years.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

“Today, we welcome an incredible group of regulars while continuing to invite people new to the area.” She says the group is geared toward their active older community, but everyone is welcome, including business owners or anyone curious about the topic or simply looking to meet their neighbors. Paige says that the growth of this program shows the value of consistent, approachable engagement. “Residents know they have a place where they can learn about the community, ask questions, and meet the people doing the work.” The great turnout could also have something to do with the delicious coffee and donuts they serve. “The coffee is brewed in-house at the Victoria Recreation Center, and we purchase fresh donuts from Mackenthun’s in Minnetrista. We’ve continued using Mackenthun’s because they provide a fresh, local option that works well for our events. They’re also a great community partner.” So, pull up a chair, grab a donut, and join the conversation. You may just leave with a new friend. victoriamn.gov/community/events_and_programs/ community_events

Fit, Stylish & Freakishly Fun, Happy October from Shape It Up

UPCOMING EVENTS Nickle Dickle Day Sale Sat. Sept 19th | 8-5p

Schram Fall Market, Come Shop Wed. Oct. 7

Dear Day | Sat. Nov. 7th | 8-5p Pink Friday: Free Classes + Deals Fri. Nov. 20th

Black Friday Instructor Jam, Big Sale Fri. Nov. 27th | 10-5p

Small Biz Saturday + Grater Good Cheese Party | Sat. Nov. 28th | 4-6p

JOIN US THIS FALL & FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

V @shapeitupathleisure B @shapeitupfitnesswaconia shapeitupfitnessmn.com | 952-215-7431 44 W MAIN STREET, DOWNTOWN WACONIA

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Driveways Patios Sidewalks Sheds Garages Basements & more OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

RAISE A GLASS TO WHISKEY

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

AT W I N C H E S T E R & R Y E , A F A M I LY H I S T O R Y A N D A PA S S I O N F O R P U R P O S E F U L PA I R I N G S C O M E T O G E T H E R

When it comes to providing a tasteful experience tailored to whiskey lovers — and those who don’t know they’re whiskey lovers yet — the owners of Winchester & Rye in Victoria have their pairings down to a science. The story of Winchester & Rye began with whiskey. And a family history steeped in it. “My great-grandparents made rye-and-corn whiskey during Prohibition, so when we created the restaurant, a real whiskey lounge felt like a natural part of it,” shares Kim Heenie, who co-owns the restaurant with her husband, Kevin. “Rye will always have a special place here. It’s literally in our name. My business is based on my family — her sister was a distiller at a local distillery — my friends, and our strong community ties.” And because family, friends, and community are at the heart of their story, they aim to offer a diverse selection so that everyone can find something interesting that appeals to them. With so many whiskeys to choose from, what makes it sip-worthy?

“First and foremost, it has to taste good. We look for quality and character, but also balance across the list. Different styles, proofs, and price points, along with bottles that allow our guests to try something they may not have had before.” If you’re not a seasoned whiskey enthusiast, don’t worry, they have something for you, too. “I’ll usually ask what they don’t like about it. Whiskey has such a broad range of flavors that someone who dislikes a high-proof or very oak-forward bourbon may love a softer, sweeter whiskey, or discover that they enjoy whiskey in the right cocktail.” If you’re having trouble deciding what to order, Kim says that their Old Fashioned and Manhattan are big winners–literally! They both won Silver in the Star Tribune’s Minnesota’s Best Awards this year. Kim believes this reflects their respect for the classics, use of good ingredients, and the craftsmanship that goes into bringing each cocktail to the bar. That balance is key to their CONTINUED >

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

“WHISKEY HAS SUCH A BROAD RANGE OF FLAVORS THAT SOMEONE WHO DISLIKES A HIGH-PROOF OR VERY OAK-FORWARD BOURBON MAY LOVE A SOFTER, SWEETER WHISKEY, OR DISCOVER THAT THEY ENJOY WHISKEY IN THE RIGHT COCKTAIL.”

other cocktails, too, with flavors like citrus, cherries, blackberries, warm spices, and, she says, just enough sweetness. “There isn’t much to hide behind in an Old Fashioned, so the whiskey has to carry it. It’s simple enough that you can still taste the character of the spirit, with just enough sweetness and bitters to frame it.” Adding another layer, the team creates their own simple syrup with fresh rosemary, orange, cinnamon, vanilla, and cherry.

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Food pairings are also part of the signature formula at Winchester & Rye. “Our food has a lot of flavors that naturally work with whiskey — wood-fired pizza, grilled meats, spice and richer savory dishes.” Specifically, she says flavors like smoke, char, caramelization, warm spices, cherries, and other dark fruits are natural partners. “Salt and acidity are important too, as they can make both the whiskey and the food taste brighter.” For a bold pairing, try ordering their Coffee Chile-Rubbed Filet with an Old Fashioned. Kim explains that the char and richness of the steak work with the oak and caramel notes in the whiskey, while the coffee and chile add a layer of bitterness and spice. When it comes down to it, Kim says that you don’t have to be a whiskey expert to enjoy it, and there isn’t one correct way to drink it. “Neat, on the rocks, with a little water or in a great cocktail: the best whiskey is the one you enjoy drinking.” winchesterandrye.com

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

OCTOBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

O C TOBE R 4 T H

5th Annual Fall Festival Gather & Grow Waconia Foodshelf | 12:30 PM Come to support the foodshelf and stay for the fun at this year's 5th Annual Fall Festival, hosted by Heather Reichenberger, Real Estate Agent at RE/MAX Results. Bring a monetary or food donation for the Gather & Grow Waconia Foodshelf and receive a free pumpkin. There will be a costume contest, raffle drawing, great food, henna tattoos, face painting, and bouncy House! O C TOBE R 8T H

Evening on Main Downtown Hutchinson | 5:00 PM Stroll Main Street in downtown Hutchinson and visit your favorite businesses for exclusive specials, door prizes, and more! Participating businesses will also have special giveaways. Collect five stamps as you shop, and then you can enter to win! Big prizes are on the line. Something To Crow About will also host a Silent Auction and will be running great specials during the event. O C TOBE R 8T H - 1 8T H

Waconia Scarecrow Tour Downtown Waconia | 9:00 AM A community favorite, the Scarecrow Tour is a self-guided tour through downtown Waconia. From October 8th through the 18th, Waconia Chamber-member businesses create scarecrows for the community to tour outside their shops. And they get very creative! Always a fun event for the whole family, it's a great way to check out all the amazing local businesses. You can also vote for your favorite! destinationwaconia.org/events/chamber-hosted-community-events/scarecrows-tour/ O C TOBE R 1 6T H

Annual Harvest Bonfire at Schram Vineyards Schram Vineyards | 4:00 PM One of Schram's most popular events of the year, they celebrate the harvest season with a huge bonfire! Inspiring one of their beloved red blends, the Bonfire red wine, a new vintage is released at the event each year. A tent in the vineyard will have a live band and dancing, food trucks, s'mores, community, mulled wine, drinks, and more! Get your tickets: schramvineyards.com/event-details/annual-harvest-bonfire-save-the-date O C TOBE R 2 4 T H

Sovereign Estate’s Annual Chili Fest Winery at Sovereign Estate | 12:00 PM Enjoy a daylong hang with great food, great wine, and great music by Traveled Ground and 73 Paces, ending with an epic bonfire to burn into the night! Tickets are good all day, but guests must eat during their purchased timeframe. They offer three time ranges for chili tasting and seating times to accommodate and serve all guests. Get your tickets: sovereignestatewine.com/upcoming-events/chili-bonfire-fest-2025 O C TOBE R 3 1 ST

Halloween in Victoria Downtown Victoria Businesses and Bayfront Park | 1:00 PM Don't miss a spooktacular Halloween celebration in downtown Victoria! Start by trick-or-treating from 1-2pm, where local businesses will be handing out sweet treats. Then head over to Bayfront Park from 1:30-3:30pm for exciting games and activities hosted by the Victoria Lions Club. You'll also be able to climb aboard a fire truck, learn about fall composting, and snap some spooky pics on the Haystack Haven!

EVE N TS

Come and Enjoy!

Hours: Tue-Sat 11a-9p | Sun 11a-8p

Hours: Tuesday-Sunday opens at 630am

Join us for dinner with rotating weekly specials, stay for cocktails in The Brass Hat speakeasy

Now offering fast casual breakfast & lunch! Breakfast 7a- 1030a | Lunch 11a-2p

BodeGrays.com | 125 1st St W

BakeryOffMain.com | 125 1st St W

Your Go-to for Women’s Health, in Waconia At Premier Women’s Health – OBGYN West, we’re all about caring for the whole you. From primary care to OBGYN, it’s all here—under one roof. Grow your family with confidence, stay on top of your GYN health, and feel your best with services like weight management, nutrition, OBGYN PT, and 3D mammography.

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OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A