The Food & Drink Issue
Black Friday Promotions valid through 11/30/24. Not valid on pre-paid packages.
Cosmetic Members: $9/unit Botox® and Non-Members: $11/unit Botox® (Minimum of 20 units) with any Cosmetic RN only (not available with any MDs or PA-Cs).
Cosmetic Members 40% O and Non-Members 20% o : Aerolase®, Chemical Peels, ClearSense™, Forever Young™, HydraFacial®, IPL, Juvederm®, Kybella®, Laser Hair Removal, MiraDry®, Plasma Lasers, PRP, Sculptra®, Skinvive™, TruSculpt®, Venus Viva™, Yag Vein Removal. New patients to procedures needing a consult will be scheduled for a consultation appointment with a fee of $65 for MDs and PA-Cs, or $35 with a Cosmetic RN. After booking your treatment appointment,
| Suite
Welcome fall!
That chill in air only means one thing — the season of hearty comfort food has returned. October is our most delectable issue of the year, filled with some of our favorite dishes and beverages around town.
For this issue, we had the pleasure of sitting down with The Aviator’s executive chef Bryan Thomas to learn about the Cleveland hot spot’s new fall menu. Get your tastebuds ready — you’re in for a treat. We’ve also included a couple new recipes for you to try at home, whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests. Also, don’t miss our articles about locally made sweet treats from Blossom Bake Shoppe and beautifully crafted charcuterie spreads from Bleu + Brie Co.
As always, thanks for reading, and we’ll see you around town!
Until next month,
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Joe Violi | joe.violi@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Emily Shea-Owen | emily.shea@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Martha Doyle | martha.doyle@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Erin Baka, Emily Shea-Owen
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
The Aviator, Bleu + Brie Co., Blossom Bake Shoppe
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Branden Cooper
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
Learn
Proverbs 3:5-6
A Visual and Flavorful Masterpiece
BLEU + BRIE CO. MAKES CUSTOM
CHARCUTERIE BOARDS AND GRAZING TABLES
ARTICLE BY ERIN BAKA
Bleu + Brie Co. is a culinary artisan business that specializes in the creation of exquisite custom charcuterie boards and grazing tables. Drawing from the rich French tradition of charcuterie, Bleu + Brie Co. offers meticulously curated selections of premium meats, cheeses and distinctive additions like fresh fruit, nuts, honey, dips and breads. Each board is a visual and flavorful masterpiece, designed to elevate any gathering with a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Katie Hogan, visionary of Bleu + Brie Co., transforms the art of entertaining into a delightful and personalized experience.
Katie’s concept of the “modernized buffet” table is revolutionizing the way we entertain, especially for weddings and holiday events. Her approach combines the elegance of curated displays with the convenience of self-service. The modernized buffet is perfect for creating a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, allowing guests to savor a variety of gourmet selections at their own pace. As Katie puts it, “Taste and presentation are the reasons we are so successful and what separates us from our competition.” This philosophy drives every creation at Bleu + Brie Co., ensuring that each board or grazing table not only looks visually stunning but also delivers an unforgettable flavor experience.
Grazing tables and charcuterie boards offer delightful spreads of food but differ in scale and presentation. Katie’s charcuterie board is a curated selection of luxury meats and cheeses that are arranged on a platter for smaller gatherings. In contrast, a grazing table is a more expansive and visually striking display that covers an entire table. It features an abundance of cheeses, meats, fruits, breads, dips, desserts and more. Grazing tables are perfect for larger events, serving as an interactive centerpiece
for guests to enjoy. The “Golden Hour Grazer” at Bleu + Brie Co. can include an assortment of desserts and gourmet sliders, custom cookies and other luxury meats and cheese.
Intrigued? Katie at Bleu + Brie Co. offers interactive workshops where participants can learn the art of creating their own charcuterie boards and grazing tables. These hands-on sessions guide attendees through the selection and arrangement of ingredients, teaching them how to design stunning spreads that impress guests. Whether for personal events or to enhance entertaining skills, Katie’s workshops provide the knowledge and confidence to create beautiful and delicious displays that reflect the occasion’s theme and style.
At Bleu + Brie Co., Katie ensures that each charcuterie board or grazing table is fully customizable and tailored to meet the unique needs of every client. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, wedding or special event, Katie works closely with clients to understand their vision, preferences and theme. This personalized approach ensures that every creation not only looks stunning but also perfectly fits the occasion, providing a memorable experience for all guests.
To ensure the perfect grazing table, Katie requires a lead time of two weeks. This allows her to meticulously plan and prepare each detail, from the selection of premium ingredients to the final presentation. Katie also offers flexible pricing tiers, making it possible to tailor each grazing table to her client’s budget and the specific needs of their occasion. Katie also has options for gifting a charcuterie board or grazing table.
To learn more about Bleu + Brie Co., visit BlueAndBrieCo. com. To contact Katie, text or call 440.396.8992, or email her at bleuandbrieco@gmail.com.
“Drawing from the rich French tradition of charcuterie, Bleu + Brie Co. offers meticulously curated selections of premium meats, cheeses and distinctive additions like fresh fruit, nuts, honey, dips and breads.”
“At Bleu + Brie Co., Katie ensures that each charcuterie board or grazing table is fully customizable and tailored to meet the unique needs of every client.”
PROUD SUPPORTER OF MIRACLE LEAGUE
Offering children, young adults and adults with special needs the opportunity to play baseball
The Metro Lexus team remains steadfast in their dedication to the Medina community. Recently, they collaborated with the Cloverleaf High School baseball team’s players and coaching staff to support the Miracle League Baseball players. Pete Mapp, Vice President of Metro Lexus, shared his thoughts: "Coming together for a common cause and seeing the smiles on these players' faces is truly heartwarming. It's about more than just the game; it's about community and joy."
The Miracle League Baseball program aims to provide young adults and adults with special needs the opportunity to play baseball on a global scale. The games are held on a custom-designed field with a cushioned, rubberized surface to help prevent injuries and accommodate wheelchairs and walkers, meeting the unique needs of these incredible athletes. The local league alone gives 160 athletes the chance to play each season.
As a 24-time Elite of Lexus dealership serving the greater Medina area, Metro Lexus is deeply committed to excellence in customer service and community involvement.
Connect with Vice President and fellow Medina resident, Peter Mapp
350-2214
DIVERSIFY RETIREMENT INCOME FOR A ROBUST FINANCIAL FUTURE
Explore Multiple Income Avenues to Unlock Your Financial Future
In today's volatile economic landscape, relying on a single income source during retirement can be risky. Diversifying your retirement income streams is essential for unlocking your financial future and peace of mind. By exploring various income avenues such as pensions, social security, investments, and part-time work, you can create a robust financial foundation. Diversification not only helps in mitigating risks, but can potentially create a steady flow of income throughout your retirement years. Don't leave your financial future to chance—take proactive steps now to secure your retirement.
Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation Today by Calling (330) 473-1060. Enhance your financial health today.
ARTICLE BY EMILY SHEA-OWEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE AVIATOR
of Fall The Flavors
“The new menu emphasizes the best flavors of the season.”
It’s not fall without delicious fare that highlights the best flavors of the season. That’s why The Aviator — Cleveland’s premier restaurant and event center that’s located right along the runway of the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport — updated its menu to reflect the very best of autumn.
To celebrate our annual Food & Drink issue and give you a behind-the-scenes look at how The Aviator’s new menu was created, we sat down with the restaurant’s executive chef Bryan Thomas. Get to know him and learn about the creative process behind crafting this seasonal menu.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE CULINARY FIELD?
In 2008, I went to culinary school at Le Cordon Bleu in Pittsburgh. I have been in the field ever since.
HOW DID YOU BECOME THE EXECUTIVE CHEF AT THE AVIATOR? WHAT MADE YOU GRAVITATE TOWARDS THE JOB?
When I moved back to Cleveland, I told myself that I wanted to find a restaurant that would allow me to have creative control over the menu because it is a goal of mine to win a James Beard Foundation Award. When I came to The Aviator and met with co-owner and president Khadar Soussou, our goals and ambitions lined up perfectly. I made him the promise that I would take us to the next level.
TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE FALL MENU. WHAT ARE SOME THEMES AND FLAVORS THAT GUESTS CAN EXPECT?
This menu is very personal to me — it’s my chance to put all my experience and the knowledge I’ve gained over the past 16 years together. Fall has always been my favorite season, so
this just felt right. The theme of the menu is fall showcase, where I put my spin on dishes that utilize fresh and locally sourced ingredients. It will be an elevated worldly cuisine menu, with dishes originating from France, Italy, Spain and the Mediterranean.
WHAT INSPIRED THE FALL MENU?
I have always been a big advocate for using the best seasonal produce. This menu really emphasizes that because you’ll get the best tastes and flavors of the season.
WHEN CREATING A NEW SEASONAL MENU, WHAT DOES THAT PROCESS LOOK LIKE?
To start, I look at the produce that is coming into season and begin reaching out to local purveyors so that I can obtain samples of the products I’m interested in. After I have received these, I taste everything so I can understand the complexity of the flavors and how they’ll taste with one another. Then, I start to compose a menu and do some research and development. During this process, I’m trying to ascertain how the dishes will complement one another and support the overall flow of the menu. From there, I’ll make adjustments until I get to the point of a harmonious balance among flavors across the entire menu. The final step is costing out each dish.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE DISHES TO PREPARE FOR YOURSELF?
When I’m at home, I normally cook some of my childhood favorites like mac and cheese, greens, oxtail soup, cornbread, spaghetti and pork chops. I play around with new dishes as well at home to keep the creative juices flowing.
To see the new fall menu and make a reservation at The Aviator, visit AviatorPubCleveland.com. The Aviator is located at 20920 Brookpark Rd., Cleveland.
SALON
• 3 Hairstylist Price Tiers, Based On Experience
• Custom Blended Goldwell Haircolor, Hilites, & Balayage
• Certified Extension Experts- Tape-in, Sew-in Weft, Keratin Bond and Halocouture DAY SPA
• Highly-Skilled Spa Experts- Specialist in Field With Decades Of Experience
• Therapeutic Massage Therapy Hot stone, CBD Massages
• Eminence Organic Facials
• Natural Nail Manicures & Pedicures with our exclusive Dazzle Dry Nail Lacquer
seasonal delights
Blossom Bake Shoppe, Northeast Ohio’s premier sugar cookie shop, is kicking off fall with seasonally decorated cookies that aren’t just delicious — they’re works of art. All of owner and lead baker, Ashleigh Kolasky’s, cookie designs emphasize a level of detail that not only showcases her culinary expertise but also highlights her innate ability to turn ordinary cookies into edible masterpieces.
But it’s not just what’s on the outside that counts. Ashleigh’s cookies are crafted with quality, pure ingredients, embodying a commitment to excellence that places them in the top tier of delectable delights. Infused with the delicate essences of vanilla and almond, her cookies not only captivate the eyes but also deliver a symphony of flavors that dance on the taste buds.
When it comes to her custom catering offerings, Blossom Bake Shoppe is set up to support all kinds of celebrations and events — from birthday parties to engagement announcements. Further, with the holidays upon us, sweet treats for festive parties, fall and winter weddings and teacher gifts will be more prevalent.
CUSTOM COOKIES, FESTIVE DECORATING CLASSES AND MORE WITH BLOSSOM BAKE SHOPPE
“I do a lot of custom cookie orders for weddings in October,” says Ashleigh. “Moving into November and December, I’ll open my cookie presale for the holidays — these cookies are perfect to bring to holiday functions or for teacher gifts. I can also do custom holiday cookie designs for those that have something specific in mind.”
In addition to custom orders and cookie presales, a newer offering from Blossom Bake Shoppe is cookie decorating classes. Typically, Ashleigh offers these classes on a monthly basis, and each class has a fun and unique decorating theme. Included with each class is six cookies per person, all of the icing and decorating materials, step-by-step guidance and a take home copy of the sugar cookie and icing recipes.
“These classes are just so fun to offer. I love sharing my expertise and seeing the creations my participants make,” says Ashleigh. “I’m excited to offer some festive-themed classes throughout October, November and December.”
Beginning this month, Ashleigh is also offering take home DIY decorating kits that can be ordered through her website. These offer the perfect family activity or even a fun thing to do for a girl’s night.
To learn more about Blossom Bake Shoppe’s decorating classes, DIY kits and how to make a custom cookie order, visit BlossomBakeShoppe. com . Please give a four-week lead time for orders. Plus, see more of Ashleigh’s beautiful creations by following Blossom Bake Shoppe on Instagram at @BlossomBakeShoppe.
Playsets, Swings & Kid’s Toys
SER VI NG UP S OUP
CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
This hearty chicken noodle soup is the perfect comfort food that is packed with nutritious goodness. This pairs perfectly with homemade beer bread or a sourdough loaf.
INGREDIENTS:
• 8 cups chicken broth (add more if desired)
• Whole fryer chicken, cut in chunks or shredded
• 5 celery stalks, sliced
• 8 carrots, sliced
• ½ onion diced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• ¼ cup half and half (optional)
• 1 package egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
In a large stock pot, add 8 cups of chicken broth. Dice carrots, celery and onion and add to the broth. Bring to a boil, and reduce to medium heat until the vegetables are soft. In the meantime, skin and cube 1 whole fryer chicken and add to the stock pot. Next, add egg noodles (frozen Reames homemade egg noodles are my favorite) and let boil until noodles are cooked. Add butter, half and half, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer on low until ready to serve.
CONTINUED >
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
TOMATO BASIL SOUP
This classic tomato basil soup is easy and quick to make and is the perfect way to get the rustic, tangy and savory flavors of this italian dish.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cans diced tomatoes
• 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (or alternatively, 1 stick butter)
• ½ cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
•
DIRECTIONS:
Toss the butter or olive oil in the pan. Add onion, and saute until the onion is translucent and soft. Add minced garlic, and saute for 2 minutes. Next, add canned tomatoes and simmer. Transfer to a blender, and puree until smooth. Add the fresh basil and heavy cream. Transfer mixture back to the pan to thoroughly heat, and salt and pepper to taste. Top with fresh parmesan and chopped basil, and serve with toasted italian bread.
Amish craftsmanship at its best! Apple creek roofing strives for customer service and satisfaction. Our employees are professional and pride themselves in high quality workmanship and clean up of all debris and nails. Apple creek roofing specializes in residential re-roofs , seamless gutters and leafguard.
www.applecreekroofing.com
OCTOBER 4TH – 13TH
Medina Restaurant Week
Across Medina County
Head to participating restaurants across town for limited time specials, deals and delicious bites. For more information and to view a full list of the participating restaurants, MainStreetMedina.com .
OCTOBER 6TH
Cabinet-S-Top’s Renovated Home Tour
Cabinet-S-Top | 12:00 PM
Begin your tour of eight renovated spaces at Cabinet-S-Top. The free experience will allow you to get a firsthand look at the local business’s expert design, high-quality craftsmanship and functional details. Learn more at Cabinet-S-Top.com/Events
OCTOBER 12TH
Soup Cook Off Fundraiser and Dessert Auction
Comfort Suites, 1464 Town Center Blvd., Brunswick | 5:30 PM
Join the Oaks Family Care Center for their third annual event featuring delicious soups, decadent desserts and fun fellowship. Participating is easy — attend for $15, donate a bakery item for the auction or enter your favorite homemade soup into the contest. Proceeds from the fundraiser will support the Oaks’ mission to support area families. Learn more at Oaks-Family-Care. org/events-fundraising
events
CONTINUED
OCTOBER 17TH
Ladies’ Night Out
Medina Public Sqaure | 5:00 PM
Get your gals together for this spooky edition of Ladies’ Night Out: “Witches Night!” Businesses around Medina Public Square will offer fun deals, swag bags and activities throughout the evening.
OCTOBER 19TH
Flea Fest: Halloween Flea
The Common Ground | 10:00 AM
Head to this multi-use merchant and maker space for a community market featuring over 100 local vendors, live music, food trucks, cocktails and vintage art. The market will celebrate spooky season.
OCTOBER 26TH
World Tour of Music: Trinidad and Tobago Western Reserve Masonic Community | 7:30 PM
This steel drum performance is the culminating concert in Ohio Regional Music Arts Cultural Outreach Fall 2024 World Tour of Music residency with Joe Leaman and Liam Teague. Ticket prices start at $15 and are available at Ormaco.org
Our experience and a deep understanding of the current market provides expert guidance and personalized attention to ensure your real estate journey is seamless and rewarding. As part of the prestigious Howard Hanna network, we offer global reach and access to a vast network of luxury properties, providing our clients with unparalleled opportunities to find their dream home, wherever it may be.
