Woodbury - November 2025 by Local.

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Liliana

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Taste of Italy, page 30

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Photo by: Chris Emeott

from the EDITOR

There’s something magical about the way novels transport us to different worlds; for me, it is often to small, idyllic towns where time seems to slow down. The charm of these settings is unmistakable—quaint streets, close-knit communities and little shops that feel like hidden gems. It’s a world where every corner holds a new discovery.

It’s this very feeling I’m reminded of when I step into Golden Fig Fine Foods off of St. Paul’s Grand Avenue. I’m enveloped by the store’s inviting warmth. Artisanal candies, delicate culinary delights, thoughtfully curated kitchenware and home goods all combine to create a space that feels like a lovingly crafted smalltown boutique. What makes it all the more special is that Golden Fig, owned by a Woodbury resident, brings a slice of coastal charm inspired by the Hamptons to Minnesota. If you’re looking for a bit of holiday inspiration, I encourage you to make a stop by the store, plus learn more on page 25.

In this, our food and entertainment issue, I’m delighted to bring you a collection of stories that celebrate how food has the power to bring people together. Savor the flavors of Liliana, the newest restaurant in Woodbury that offers elevated Italian cuisine (page 30), or prepare a memorable wine-and-dine experience for loved ones at home (page 38).

As we reflect on the season of giving thanks, I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to you, Readers. I hope this issue inspires you to savor the moments, meals and memories that bring you joy.

Happy Thanksgiving,

hailey@localmedia.co

Photo: Chris Emeott

Hailey Almsted

VOL. 21 NO. 4

November 2025

PUBLISHER

Susan Isay

EDITOR

Hailey Almsted

MANAGING CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Renée Stewart-Hester

MANAGING EDITOR

Hailey Almsted

DIGITAL EDITOR

Madeline Kopiecki

COPY EDITORS

Kellie Doherty and Sherri Hildebrandt

STAFF WRITERS

Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Meredith Heneghan, Jennifer Pitterle and Paige Udermann

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Megan Koren, Amy Leferink, Gretchen McNaughton, Manali Shah, Patty (Stutzman) Paulus, Rachael Perron and Katie Tomsche

DIGITAL INTERN

Claire Krieger

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Diane Meyer and Avery Vrieze

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Shawn Hogendorf, South Washington County Schools ; Michele Magistad, Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce ; Sue McKeown, resident ; and Shelly Schafer, City of Woodbury

SENIOR MANAGING ART DIRECTOR

Sarah Dovolos

ART DIRECTOR

Allison Nolden

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR

Jamie Klang

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Yaz Lo

LEAD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Chris Emeott

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Brittni Dye

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Lisa Stone

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Mimi Coz

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Laura Bjorgo, Cynthia Hamre and Sara Johnson

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Rochita Chatterjee and Gina Neumann

PRESIDENT Pete Burgeson

651.227.7324

1075 Hadley Ave. N, Suite 100, Oakdale gregfootejewelers.com

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As snow blankets the ground and the air turns brisk, there’s no better time to embrace the warmth, comfort, and peace of mind that come with independent living at Saint Therese of Woodbury. Nestled in one of Minnesota’s most vibrant communities, our campus is a welcoming retreat where seniors can enjoy the beauty of winter without the burden of home maintenance.

Step outside your door and into a vibrant community offering:

• A warm saltwater pool and fitness center

• On-site bistro, library and Club Room

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• Salon, barber shop and boutique

• Serene gardens and a therapeutic labyrinth

If your health needs change, a full continuum of care is available within the same familiar campus.

Come see why Saint Therese of Woodbury has been a trusted choice for nearly 10 years.

Consider pairing toffee with espresso this holiday season.

Carols, Community and Cheer

The neighboring community of Afton receives a magical makeover during the holiday season as timeless tradition and community connection coalesce. The Afton Village Holiday returns over three weekends in November and December.

“There’s nothing quite like strolling through the softly lit, candy cane-lined streets of Afton, pausing at a fire to warm your hands, and chatting

with friends and neighbors,” says Heather Kiel, event coordinator for Afton Events.

Sponsored by the Afton Area Business Association, the festivities include crafting stations, a holiday market, musical performances and special deals at local restaurants. In Town Square Park, visitors can enjoy free ice skating from dusk until dawn and free horse and wagon rides from noon

When it comes to family gatherings, I became the de facto dessert-bringer many, many years ago. There’s always plenty of food at a Perron party, and we don’t ever lack for veggie trays, cheese and, of course, potatoes. But I go to a party for one thing—dessert. And if that means I must make it, I’m good with that. From everyday family meals to formal dinner parties, these easy-peasy holiday pairings are a great way to treat your guests to a little something sweet this season.

» aged cheddar and salted almonds with port wine

» amaretti cookies and cappuccino

» candied pecans and cold eggnog

» cheesecake with lingonberry jam

» dark chocolate with whiskey

» holiday fruit assortment with pomegranates, clementines and pears

» ice cold milk and warm cookies

» Kowalski’s Pecan Pie Bars with Kowalski’s Maple Bourbon Brown Sugar Ice Cream

» Kowalski’s Peppermint Brownie Ice Cream and Kowalski’s Iced Brownies

» toasted panettone with mascarpone and coffee

» toffee and espresso

The Sweetest Season

Rachael Perron is the culinary and branding director for Kowalski’s Markets, where she specializes in product development and selection, culinary education and communications. Taste more at kowalskis.com.

until 3 p.m. on Saturdays. The Afton Historical Museum is sponsoring a bake sale from 5 to 8 p.m. December 5, and the Afton Historic Schoolhouse will host a holiday craft market throughout the Village Holiday. And don’t forget to join Santa Claus for breakfast as he takes up residence at the Historic Afton House Inn (date and time to be determined).

The Holiday Tree Lighting at

6 p.m. December 6 is the heart of the festivities. The Afton Area Business Association hopes all visitors will feel as though they have stepped into a holiday storybook, enjoying “a simpler, slower, more meaningful version of the holidays,” says Kiel. “There’s a true sense of belonging here.” —Diane Meyer

Find more information at exploreafton.com.

Photo: Kowalski’s Markets

Decorating the Heritage House

In late November, you know the holidays are right around the corner as the outside of the Heritage House magically comes to life. For over 25 years, several generations of the Raths Family (one of the oldest families in Woodbury and the original owners of the land and building) have come together on the Saturday following Thanksgiving to decorate the outside of the house and its surrounding fence with colorful wreaths and garlands.

This family tradition is spearheaded by Sheila (Raths) Hause, a board director of the Woodbury Heritage Society and great-great-granddaughter of Frederick and Sophia Raths, who emigrated from Germany in 1853 and came to Woodbury in 1864. After spending the morning together adorning the Heritage House, which was built in 1870 as an addition to a log cabin, the Raths family always gathers for a group photo to celebrate their annual decorating tradition before heading to a lively brunch.

Patty (Stutzman) Paulus is a Woodbury Heritage Society board member. Discover more at woodburyheritage.org.

Soda That Pops

Dirty sodas are taking the country by storm, and first-time entrepreneurs Hadier Jassim and Mitch Riebow are bringing the tasty trend to their own neighborhood this fall with Bevvie.

The store specializes in dirty sodas—a drink made with a soda base and special additives, such as cream, flavored syrups, fruit purees and more. Jassim says Bevvie aims to serve as a communal space for beverage connoisseurs to come together and share in their love of the drink trend.

We ask Jassim to share more about her and her husband’s experiences starting Bevvie.

What inspired you to start Bevvie and bring dirty soda to Woodbury? We wanted to bring something fun, refreshing and different to Woodbury. Dirty soda

hadn’t really found its way to the East Metro yet. We saw an opportunity to create a space where everyone can enjoy bold flavors, creative combinations and a menu that feels both familiar and new.

What are some of your signature or must-try drinks?

We have the Slip n’ Slide, which blends a dark base, such as [cola], with fruity flavors. Also, our red velvet cake drink is a mix of a Sprite base, red velvet and vanilla bean syrup, white chocolate sauce and a cold foam top. —Claire Krieger

Find more information on Instagram @bevviesoda.

Learn more at woodburymag.com.

From left to right: Tambourine Twist, The Classic and Velvet Royale.

Conveniently Delicious

Let’s Dish celebrates two decades and expands its ready-to-bake options.

By Jennifer Pitterle

When the holiday season kicks into high gear, the heat is on—especially in the kitchen. Meal preparation can feel like it’s on a never-ending rotation. Cooking food for a celebration here or there is manageable, but when faced with the deluge of other holiday preparations, even making daily meals can be overwhelming. Having extra help in the kitchen is invaluable. Let’s Dish launched in 2003 with a handful of meal-preparation locations. Co-founder and CEO Darcy Olson has seen two generations of families enjoy Let’s Dish. “We get to hear so many stories,” she says. “People have said our

meals have made it much easier for their kids to help out in the kitchen or for them to grow in their careers because making dinner is an equal partnership.”

More than two decades later, Let’s Dish has adapted to families’ changing needs. Instead of assembling meals themselves, customers can shop in the stores or order online to pick up fully prepped kits (over 100 appetizers, mains and desserts), and many can go from “freezer to cooked in 30 minutes,” Olson says.

In addition to perennial favorites (like the beloved Cheese Curd Crusted Chicken Ranch Bake), Olson says popular

items include Midwestern standbys Swedish Meatballs With Egg Noodles and Skillet Pot Roast and global dishes, featuring Burrito Bowls with barbacoa beef, shredded chicken or vegetables and Chicken and Vegetable Pad Thai. All of this goes to getting three square meals on the table during busy work weeks or preparing for the holidays. “We want to offer a variety of classic comfort foods that you can make really easily,” Olson says. In addition to classic dinners like Family Style Chicken Pot Pie, Let’s Dish offers breakfast and lunch options, featuring Cinnamon Rolls With Cream

Swedish Meatballs With Egg Noodles

Photo: Chris Emeott

Cheese Icing, Sausage and Hashbrown Breakfast Bake and a variety of sandwiches and wraps. (Grabbing an extra 30 minutes of sleep while your teenagers bake a pan of gooey cinnamon rolls or prep an early lunch? Priceless.)

Apart from daily meals, hosting duties can get a boost. Olson recommends stocking up on easy-to-heat appetizers, including Baked Ham and Swiss Sliders, Bourbon-Glazed Wild Rice Meatballs, Pulled Pork Sliders on Pretzel Buns and Shredded Beef Wellingtons.

Gift-giving has become another significant part of Let’s Dish’s service, offering delivery across five states and free, handwritten gift messages with each order. Olson says delivery boxes have also become a popular option for supporting parents with new babies, families dealing with illness or elderly individuals who struggle with cooking—something her own family knows well. “My mom isn’t able to cook anymore, so my dad, at 89, does all of their cooking,” Olson says. “Let’s Dish has been a big help with that.”

While Olson witnesses the importance of convenient meal preparation in her own family, she has spent her entire career in the food industry and loves seeing the impact of wholesome, easyto-make food for busy families. “I’ll see women who were young moms back when Let’s Dish started, and now they’re buying meals for their new grandkids or their college students,” she says.

This summer, a new partnership between Target and Let’s Dish brought the company’s beloved meals to the freezer aisles of Metro Target locations. When Target reached out about the collaboration, Olson and her team leapt at the opportunity to expand the reach of their accessible meals. “It’s pretty surreal and has really meant a lot to the company,” she says.

As of this writing, nine of Let’s Dish’s popular three-serving-size meals are in 25 Target locations. “We’re really excited to continue to grow with Target,” Olson says.

Find Let’s Dish at your local Target location and more at target.com.

Let’s Dish letsdish.com @letsdishmn

Peace of Mind

The holiday vacation check program is a free service offered to

Woodbury residents.

By Emily Gedde

The holiday season is here. Your bags are packed, the gifts are wrapped and you’re ready for a weekend away to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. But what isn’t wonderful is the feeling of uncertainty that comes with leaving your home unattended for several days.

That’s where the Woodbury Police Department comes in. Delivering peace of mind, the department offers a vacation program that checks on residents’ homes while they’re away. “It’s an extremely popular program,” says Tom Ehrenberg, Woodbury patrol commander, noting it’s available year-round, not just during the holidays.

The vacation check program is a free service that allows residents to register online for extra patrols when they’re out of town. The online form requests the following information: What dates the homeowner will be gone, if they have an alarm system and who to contact if something happens.

Woodbury Community Service Officers (CSOs) play a key role in the program, offering peace of mind to homeowners but also gaining a lay of the land while training to become a police officer.

“The CSO will go around the house, make sure doors are intact, windows aren’t broken and that there are no major water leaks,” Ehrenberg says. “We make sure the house is in order, which 99.9 percent of the time, it is.”

If a door is open, which is often due to not properly latching, the officer will enter the house to check things out to ensure order inside. “Our city is very safe,” Ehrenberg says. “We rarely see break-ins to someone’s home.”

Many break-in type crimes are those of opportunity, he says. These types of crimes are often committed without preplanning and occur when a situation presents itself, like an open garage door

Through the City of Woodbury’s free vacation check program residents who are going out of town can request extra patrols of their home.

HOW TO PREVENT HOLIDAY PACKAGE THEFT

While break-ins are rare, there is an uptick in retail and porch thefts during the holidays, Tom Ehrenberg, Woodbury patrol commander, says.

The City of Woodbury encourages residents to take the following proactive steps to guard their packages, so they make it off the porch and under the tree:

• Bring your packages in immediately after delivery.

• Consider exterior home security cameras.

• Have a neighbor who is home during the delivery window secure the package.

• Have your packages shipped to your workplace.

• Ship to designated secure pickup locations or to the management office if you live in an apartment.

• Use ship-to-store options when ordering.

• Utilize an in-home delivery service.

Ehrenberg and the City of Woodbury’s website encourage residents to report any suspicious activity, such as vehicles following delivery trucks or unfamiliar cars lurking in neighborhoods, especially if occupants of such cars are approaching homes. “Security cameras can help if there are a string of package thefts in the area,” he says. “While we can’t always catch someone from camera footage, it can help us notice any patterns.”

or an unattended item. A few things to do to avoid creating situations of opportunity crimes include: close your garage door; install motion-activated lights and security cameras; keep car doors locked; lock the service door between the attached garage and the house; and make sure valuables and computers are out of sight. Ehrenberg encourages local residents to take advantage of the program if they’re unable to find someone to watch their home for them while they’re away.

Heading out of town? Sign up for the vacation check program at woodburymn.gov.

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Elevate your holiday parties with guidance from an expert.

Written by Hailey Almsted

From the first invite to the last goodbye, a great holiday party is all about intention—and a little extra planning goes a long way in pulling off the perfect gathering. Tana Cain, seasoned planner and owner of boutique soirée assistant company A Table Set Before You, knows how to pull off the perfect gathering. No matter the event—from a Thanksgiving feast to a New Year’s bash—Cain recommends beginning the planning process at least two months in advance to nail down all the little details from food prep to décor. Her No. 1 piece of advice? “Keep it simple,” she says. “We can go overboard in all the different areas. Yes, the details are very important, but remember that your guests are coming to be with you.” When planning your event, whether weeks or months away, consider Cain’s go-to tips for hosting a celebration that’s polished and perfectly on point.

• Don’t overthink the amount of food you’ll need for your guests. For catered food, order according to what the caterer advises. For desserts, order half of the amount you think you need. (Not everyone has a sweet tooth!)

• If you’re the one purchasing the food, beverages, etc., create a spreadsheet of everything needed, and check the list off as you shop.

• Avoid a traffic jam by ensuring things flow easily at the food stations. Utensils and serveware should be at the front of the line— followed by small bites, entrées and desserts. Beverages should be kept at their own station. “Believe it or not, having the food set up in a way that flows right, like a buffet, matters,” Cain says.

• Chances are, you’ll have to refill the food items at least once or twice. Prepare extra serving bowls, dishes or serving platters that can be taken from the refrigerator (or oven) and set right out for your guests. No more dumping or scraping required.

• Keep extra bowls, hot pads and serving utensils on hand—you never know when you’ll need them.

• For larger events without plated meals, eat before your guests arrive to avoid feeling over-exerted.

• Fresh-cut flowers and greenery elevate any gathering—and don’t forget to give out the florals at the end of the party. “Who doesn’t love to get sent home with a bouquet of flowers?” Cain wonders.

• Make taking out the garbage easy as 1-2-3 by putting extra garbage bags at the bottom of the trash can.

In planning the perfect soirée without the stress, Cain says, “It’s about having a wingwoman like myself. It’s somebody who can foresee what needs to be taken care of, so you’re not refilling food, taking out the garbage or having to set up.

“Then, you can be fully present to have those conversations, those special moments with each person that you selected to have at your event,” she says. “So many people walk through this world, and they each have their own story. Even family members or close friends don’t have those stories told to them because we don’t always have the moments of sitting down and having that intentional time together … Having someone take care of the details [opens time] up to stop and have those conversations.”

FROM THE BEGINNING

When Tana Cain moved from small town Baldwin, Wisconsin, to Woodbury in 2014, she knew she had to be intentional about building up her community. “It took me a couple of years before I found people who lived life like me,” she says. “We naturally started showing up for each other in graduation and other life events. If one had a graduation, the rest of us would show up and help set up, take care of the food and make sure everything was done. It was a natural way of life for us.”

Then, Cain’s eldest daughter, Alli, was married in 2021 in a picnic-style wedding. “My thought was, ‘I’ll set this up, do this and then walk down the aisle.’ I was going to do it all,” Cain recalls. “My girlfriends stopped me and said, ‘You have to be present to be the mother of the bride.’ So they took three days off work and came to take care of all of the details.

“I realized it’s such a gift, and not everybody has that,” Cain says. “It started to form a dream in my heart.” That dream amounted to A Table Set Before You, Cain’s day-of soirée assistant business. She assists with the details of any celebration, including anniversaries, birthdays, baby and bridal showers, graduations, retirement parties, weddings and more. “What really fills me with joy is showing up for people, taking care of the details that are unseen and being able to see people celebrate together,” she says.

A Table Set Before You atablesetbeforeyou.com A Table Set Before You

Tana Cain

Your Guide TO THE Perfect Present

Crisp, colorful wrapping paper. Bright bows and radiant spools of ribbon. Is there anything better to hide under a holiday tree or place around a gift table than a beautifully wrapped gift? I love making holiday gift wrapping an event, an evening devoted to cloaking presents in coordinating paper and trimmings while a seasonal movie plays on TV and the scent of orange-spice tea curls into the air. But to get to this point in my holiday milieu, I need the major players—gifts!

When it comes to procuring holiday gifts for those on your list, are you a lastminute shopper, running out to stores with a list in hand and a bit of panic to boot? Or do you shop all year, finding just the right gifts wherever local life or travels take you? While there are advantages to both methods, I find holiday shopping throughout the year reduces my holiday stress and boosts my holiday spirit.

The first step: Listen. You’d be surprised how often people inadvertently mention an item they would love to

have, an emerging hobby or an experience they want to try. Take note; keep your eyes peeled while shopping at local stores for items that speak to those conversation hints.

Next: Investigate. Several marketing websites highlight the upcoming season’s projected hot items, especially for kids. Store owners and buyers submit purchasing orders for the holidays in the summertime, so they already have an idea about what will jump off the shelves. Visit your local toy store or gift shop and ask, “What’s the next big thing?”

For those who have last-minute gifts to buy or enjoy holiday shopping when there’s snow on the ground and the towns have decked the halls, tuck into this special gift guide to find a host of lovely ideas to make your shopping experience brighter. And year-round shoppers, keep these ideas close at hand as you begin next year’s shopping when the clock strikes in the new year!

—Renée Stewart-Hester

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A HIDDEN GEM

Golden Fig Fine Foods brings a taste of the Hamptons to Minnesota.

Written

Laurie Crowell’s story starts in the Hamptons, circa 1990, when she was visiting a friend who worked as a nanny. It was happenstance that Crowell would walk by Barefoot Contessa, a specialty food store where she proceeded to work for a few years. “I loved how the food was so beautiful and delicious,” Crowell recalls.

by Hailey Almsted — Photos by Chris Emeott

“It’s a ton of effort that goes into it. It’s really thoughtfully curated and 100 percent of what is at the store is American-made products.”

Laurie Crowell on Golden Fig Fine Food’s selection

Crowell, originally from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, worked in a local grocery store as a teenager and has always loved the environment. She moved back to the Midwest in 1994 (She has lived in Woodbury for the past 15 years.) and continued her passion in the food industry by creating her own spice blends, vinegars and more—specialty items that she would gift to friends and family during the holidays.

When she decided to start her own business, she was instantly brought back to the Hamptons. “There was The Golden Pear … It was right across the alley from Barefoot Contessa,” Crowell says. “I would go there on my day off.” When thinking about a perfect business name, she kept recalling her favorite little café in the Hamptons. “What did I like that was golden? Well, figs,” she says. “I had been introduced to figs when I worked at Barefoot Contessa because [Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis] had ordered six flats of fresh figs for a table display for one of her parties. I happened to be there that day when they came in, and I was like, ‘What are these?’ I had never seen figs before.”

So, she wrapped her products in tags that said “Golden Fig” and brought the products to Ampersand and Turtle Bread Company, both of which began carrying her products. Then, in 2006, she opened Golden Fig Fine Foods, a 3,000-square-foot brick-and-mortar store on St. Paul’s Grand Avenue, which offers a handpicked selection of artisan food, cookbooks, candles and more. Everything in the store has been tasted and tested by Crowell and her staff. Speaking on the selection, Crowell says, “It’s a ton of effort that goes into it. It’s really thoughtfully curated and 100 percent of what is at the store is American-made products.”

Customers will rarely see plastic, high fructose corn syrup or artificially colored items in the store— except for the Hammond’s Candies ribbon candy that’s brought in for the holiday season. “It’s bright and vibrant, and we sell hundreds of pounds of it in December,” Crowell says. November and December are notably the busiest months at Golden Fig, and

Gifts With Heart

No matter who you’re gifting, Laurie Crowell says there’s something for everyone at Golden Fig Fine Foods. During the holiday season, Crowell and her staff make gift baskets with hand-selected items. “There aren’t a lot of places that will specially craft a gift basket for you,” she says.

The curated boxes are popular, but there are precrafted gift boxes that vary in both product and value. Popular boxes include the Hot Cocoa Sampler Box, which Crowell says includes a delicious Bombay hot chocolate, and the Minnesota Gift Box, which has items from Minnesota makers.

One of the most special boxes is the Presidential Gift Box, donned with red, white and blue ribbon, and the story of President Barack Obama visiting the store. “We walked around and shopped that day, and we didn’t mean to, but all of the things he selected that I was putting in his basket ended up being all Minnesota-made,” Crowell says. “He had local honey bonbons and cookies, cashew brittle and lots of great treats.”

Gift boxes are available all year, and can be purchased in-store and online.

Page 25: The Chocolate Lovers Gift Box includes BT Bites, chocolate espresso beans, a Dick Taylor Chocolate Bar, Golden Fig Cocoa, maple toffee, Memas Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels, Rustic Bakery cookies, Sted Mini Bars, Thomasina’s Cashew Brittle and Yukon Cocoa.

Page 26, Top Right: Laurie Crowell, owner of Golden Fig Fine Foods.

The Women-Owned Gift Box includes Bunches and Bunches cookies, a Deux Cranes Matcha Chocolate Bar, Golden Fig Dip, Katherine Anne Vanilla Bean Marshmallows, Maeve Chocolates, Maine Crisps crackers, Memas caramels, Stellar Pretzel Braids and Thomasina’s Cashew Brittle.

the store is transformed into a winter wonderland the night prior to Thanksgiving. “We call it Thanksgiving Eve. The entire staff is there, we lock the door and we change the entire store over to Christmas,” she says. “.... When you come in on Friday, it’s Christmas and it’s the craziest fun, packed with beautiful decorations.”

Family is at the heart of Golden Fig—and that includes Crowell’s staff and customers. “In the day and age that we’re in, there’s so little connection anymore,” she says. During COVID-19, Crowell says she truly connected with customers, and they also connected with one another. “We know the shoppers at our store. Just the other day, we forgot to put Laurel’s bread in her order when she came in on Saturday, so when Sandy left, on her way home, she stopped and dropped it off at her house … We have connections with people like it used to be,” Crowell says. “It’s like a family, and I love that.”

During Thanksgiving, Crowell has her own family traditions at home in Woodbury. Chocolate turkeys and notecards are placed at each seat, and everyone must write one thing they’re thankful for. “They write it, throw it in the middle and then, throughout dinner, someone reads [it],” she says.

“One thing my dad always said is ‘The happiest and generally most successful person is a person that can roll with it,’ and I’ve taken that really to heart,” Crowell says. “Things happen; they don’t go the way you want … If you can roll with it and not get stuck on the other stuff and be happy … That’s a better outlook on life.”

Golden Fig Fine Foods goldenfig.com @goldenfig

Written by Emily Gedde

Photos by Gabe Stejskal

Estelle and Mario’s, two popular St. Paul restaurants, have a new sister, Liliana, an Italian eatery in Woodbury, with a front-row seat to fresh cooking. Located at 10060 City Walk Drive, the newly established Italian restaurant offers a high-end dining experience with a casual, neighborhood feel. It’s exactly

what co-owners Peter Sebastian and Jason Hansen envisioned. “We want you to feel comfortable immediately, but slowly blown away by what you experience,” Sebastian says. “You can expect really excellent service paired with really thoughtful and creative food that all come together.”

The owners are no strangers to the dining scene. The 2005 Eagan High School

alumni were acquaintances in high school and eventually partners in the culinary world. In addition to Liliana, the pair owns Estelle (1806 St Clair Ave., St. Paul) and Mario’s (232 Cleveland Ave. N., St. Paul). “Our teams are really what make our restaurants tick, and they’ve done a really great job of seeing our visions through,” Sebastian says.

Left: Rigatoni alla Norcina, a pasta special, is made with house sausage, cream, grana padano, chives and chanterelle mushrooms.

Right: Liliana balances a light and airy atmosphere with a modern ambiance.

WHAT’S IN A NAME

All three of Sebastian and Hansen’s restaurants have first names, and Sebastian compares the naming process to that of choosing one for a child. “Jason and I would text each other ideas back and forth,” he says with a laugh at the duo’s naming strategy.

“We determine what cuisine we’re going to serve and look up words and names of that culture.”

The thought is that a restaurant, like any being, has its own personality and quirks. “Jason and I have always felt the name of a restaurant defines the feel you get when you walk in,” Sebastian says. “Estelle and Liliana are feminine, elegant and lovely. You walk in and have a light, airy and beautiful feeling. The goal is for the name to match the way you feel when you walk in.”

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Because peace of mind shouldn’t expire.

QUITE THE PAIR

Peter Sebastian says Liliana hit the jackpot with Seth Bellow, who will serve as opening bar manager. Bellow, the bar manager at Estelle, is known for his expertise in the beverage industry and described as extremely creative.

Careful details are put into making sure what’s happening in the kitchen at Liliana carries over into the bar. With in-house-made bitters and syrups, Liliana’s drink menu features Italian spirits and an array of mocktails, too. “We want people to try one of our drinks [and] recognize it but [add] some cool flavors seen in Italian cuisine,” Sebastian says. “Then those things start to mesh, and diners

realize the drinks go great with the food, and it all just kind of works together that way. We really love to have carryovers from what’s happening in the kitchen to what’s happening with the beverage programs. If the kitchen is using tarragon, I’m going to try to find a way to incorporate that into a beverage.”

While pairing ingredients in both food and drinks is strategic from a usage perspective, it’ll also enhance flavor palates too. It serves as another area where Liliana staff can guide diners with menu options that pair well together, depending on whether they’re choosing their drink or their plate first.

Both Estelle and Mario’s have proven to be successful projects, and Sebastian says they had often received requests from customers, family and friends to expand into the suburbs. “There is a lot happening on the restaurant scene in the western suburbs, but we’re east side guys and want to help build up this area and elevate the dining scene,” Sebastian says.

Liliana is a spot that is creative with familiar flavors and recognizable pasta, done uniquely. Sebastian says the team has fun with its Italian menu, branching out from the traditional chicken alfredo and spaghetti. Chef Kenzie Edinger makes mozzarella from scratch and handbreads the Chicken Parmesan—all using fresh ingredients.

And for diners unsure if the items are truly made from scratch, they’ll have the opportunity to see for themselves. “We have a built-in pasta room that is accompanied by big windows where the team hand rolls pasta,” Sebastian says. “People will be able to watch that process take place as they come and go. They’ll get a first-hand look at all those fresh things coming out.”

Sebastian says diners can expect more than just their food or drink order being taken. They’ll have an experience that makes an impression on guests from the moment they walk in the door. “We want you to come in, try things you’ve never tried before, experience flavors you’ve never had before and feel comfortable in our space,” he says. “We really want to impress people with everything that we do.”

Liliana lilianamn.com @liliana_wdb

The Perfect Complement

Treat your guests to a wine and dine event.

Written by Hailey Almsted —

& Byerlys

There is no better time to gather around the table than the holidays, especially when each dish is paired with the perfect pour. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or someone who knows their red from rosé, hosting a wine-pairing dinner brings a sophisticated twist to your seasonal festivities.

To ease into the holiday magic, Kay Lieberherr, FoodE Expert at Woodbury’s Lunds & Byerlys, has created two winepairing menus that will elevate any dinner party. So, pour a glass, pass the plates and

Photos courtesy of Lunds

Tahini Potatoes and Greens with Ginger Shrimp

let the holiday cheer flow. For the complete recipes, visit woodburymag.com.

TAKE A TRIP TO THE MEDITERRANEAN REGION

Consider opting for something out of the ordinary this season. “It’s OK to experiment [and] to make something you have never tried before,” Lieberherr says. “I really like this menu because it’s different

than what you might typically be thinking about for the holidays.”

THE STARTER:

Castelvetrano and Herb Tapenade complemented with Carboniste Pet Nat Brut or Carboniste Octopus Sparkling Albarino

“This green olive tapenade is made with buttery Castelvetrano olives, fresh herbs, lemon zest, garlic and Aleppo chili flakes bathed in extra virgin olive oil,”

Lieberherr says, noting it is best served with focaccia bread or baguette slices.

THE ENTRÉE:

Tahini Potatoes and Ginger Shrimp complemented with Wairau River Sauvignon Blanc or te Pā Sauvignon Blanc

“It leans on being healthy. It has that creamy, sesame flavor, but you incorporate mixed greens with it,” Lieberherr says. “It’s a lovely salad but substantial.”

Prosecco Gelato Float

THE DESSERT:

Pistachio Honey Tiramisu complemented with Risata Moscato d’Asti

“What I enjoy most about the Pistachio Honey Tiramisu is that it’s a fun twist on a classic dessert,” Lieberherr says. “It’s very indulgent, without being too sweet. Another win is that it’s easy to make.”

REVEL IN TRADITIONAL TASTES

If you’re a holiday traditionalist, Lieberherr has the pairing menu for you. “People are looking for cozier foods,” Lieberherr says. “They’ll want to be cozy by the fire and have something more substantial, maybe a little fancier, moving into the holidays.”

THE STARTER:

Fromage Fort complemented with Bieler Pere & Fils Sabine Rosé or Carboniste Octopus Sparkling Albarino

“Fromage Fort, meaning ‘strong cheese’ in French, is an easy and delicious cheese spread made with leftover cheeses that are in your refrigerator,” Lieberherr says of her own recipe. “What I love about this is that, every time you make it, it’s a little bit different … It takes minutes to put together and produces a delicious appetizer that your guests will rave about.”

Serves 8

Recipe courtesy of Kay Lieberherr, FoodE Expert at Lunds & Byerlys

• ½ lb. variety of cheese, rinds removed, and shredded or cut up into similarsized pieces (Cheese suggestions include extra sharp cheddar, Gruyere, Parmesan, mozzarella, blue cheese* or whatever you have in your fridge.)

• 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter

• 1 clove garlic, minced

Pistachio Honey Tiramisu

Boeuf Bourguignon

• ¼ cup dry white wine

• dash freshly ground black pepper

• dash cayenne

• baguette slices or seeded crackers

Add all ingredients to the bowl of a food processor fitted with a steel blade. Process for 30 seconds. Scrape down sides of bowl; process for 15 additional seconds or until mixture is creamy but not too smooth. Store in a ceramic crock and cover with plastic wrap. Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Remove from the refrigerator, and let stand at room temperature for 1 hour prior to serving.

*If using blue cheese, only add a small amount, as it may overpower the flavors of the other cheese.

THE ENTRÉE:

Boeuf Bourguignon complemented with Willamette Valley Whole Cluster Pinot Noir or The Four Graces Pinot Noir

“[It] is very traditional, but it’s so delicious,” Lieberherr says. “It is kind of something that might be too ‘been there, done that,’ but it’s lovely for the beginning of the holidays.”

THE DESSERT:

Prosecco Gelato Float

“This one is super fun and really easy. You take a really nice stemmed wine glass, put in one or two scoops of gelato or sorbet, and top it with prosecco,” Lieberherr says.

Courtesy of Lunds & Byerlys

• gelato, your choice

• prosecco

Drop 1–2 scoops of your favorite gelato into a glass. Top with 4 oz. of prosecco.

Lunds & Byerlys lundsandbyerlys.com @lundsandbyerlys

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Q: How do you like to unwind?

A: I love to craft—from props to pottery. I also enjoy geocaching, hiking, working on puzzles and staying active.

Q: What are you listening to or reading right now?

A: Currently, I am reading My Friends by Fredrik Backman.

Q: What’s currently sparking your interest?

A: I am looking to improve my sewing skills, and to do so, I have been trying to make costumes and other items, including household goods.

What

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Talk with The Pink Licari Wealth Management Group about creating a customized investment strategy today.

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Senior Vice President –Financial Advisor

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CARE FOR YOUR COMMUNITY

Drop off winter clothes for children in need.

Since 2021, the Woodbury Community Foundation’s (WCF) winter clothing drive has provided children in need, mostly those in the South Washington County School District, with winter clothing. This year’s drive began on October 19 and ends December 20, which leaves plenty of time to drop off items at one of the clothing drive’s more than 20 locations, including Art & Science Family Dentistry, Jerry’s Foods, the YMCA and more.

For five years, WCF has partnered with SoWashCo CARES, a nonprofit supporting students at South Washington County Schools in various ways, to col-

lect donations. Last year, the clothing drive collected over 1,800 items for the nonprofit, according to WCF’s winter clothing drive coordinator Roger Green. “There are needs out there, substantial needs, and it’s really an opportunity, through this program, to help make a direct impact on addressing those needs,” Green says. This year, Green says, SoWashCo CARES and WCF are particularly looking for boots, snow pants and waterproof gloves. However, all winter clothing donations are welcome. —Avery Vrieze

For more information, visit woodburyfoundation.org.

“We are a team that is committed to serving our clients, in all stages of life, at the highest level. Bring the kiddos! We love a happy ending to our home search that includes the whole family.

Whether you’re looking to upsize or downsize, our goal is that YOU will have big smiles and lots of excitement as you begin the next chapter in your new home.

Don’t know where to begin? Call Angela today and allow her years of experience to help you achieve your real estate goals. We are always happy to help! ”

-Angela Sadat & Team

11.04

Treasure Beyond Measure

Capt’n Curley searches for new pirates to join him on his treasure hunting adventure. Enjoy a unique, family-friendly show featuring audience participation, humor and physical comedy. washcolib.org

11.07–11.09, 11.14–11.16

Matilda the Musical

Experience the musical based on Roald Dahl’s Matilda at East Ridge High School. With comedy, dancing and singing, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. theloftstage.org

11.15

Cake Decorating

Create your own fall-themed cake during this hands-on class. Learn all the best tips and tricks to baking, prepping and decorating two 6-inch cake layers. sowashco.org

11.22

Art and Craft Fair

Explore all the crafts, jewelry, paintings, pottery and more that Central Park vendors have to offer at this free event. woodburymn.gov

11.27

Woodbury Wobble

Get some movement in before your Thanksgiving feast at this community race that includes fun for all ages. A portion of the profits from the race goes toward stocking the shelves of local food banks in the area. runsignup.com

11.30

Performance in the Park

Enjoy a family-friendly performance by the St. Paul Police Band at Central Park. This event is part of a series of performances in the park. woodburymn.gov

Compiled by Diane Meyer and Avery Vrieze

To have your event considered: email woodburymag@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication. Please note that some events may have changed since these pages went to print. Please visit affiliated websites for updates.

Woodbury Community Academy

The Woodbury Community Academy 2025 participants celebrated its 16th graduating class earlier this year. The nine-week program gives participants a close-up look at how the City of Woodbury operates. This year, presenters included the City of Woodbury, Washington County commissioners and State Representatives, the Mental Health Team, South Washington County Schools, SoWashCo CARES, Woodbury Heritage Society, Woodbury Parks & Recreation, Woodbury Public Safety and Woodbury Public Works. Learn more at woodburymn.gov.

To have your event considered: send date, time, location, photos, contact information and a brief description of the event to woodburymag@localmedia.co.

Photos: Margaret Wachholz

From Autumn to Winter

“The fall colors were out in full force. When I saw it snowing, I knew the exact spot I wanted to go to see nature’s masterful work,” hobbyist photographer Kent Nye says. “I really love the way the two seasons combined forces to allow me to capture the beauty of both seasons.” —Avery Vrieze

To view other Focus on Woodbury photo contest winners, visit woodburymag.com.

FOCUS ON WOODBURY

Photographer: Kent Nye

Title: Fall and Winter Collide

Equipment: Nikon Z50

Location: Near Seasons

Parkway and Radio Drive

Category: Seasons

Award: First Place