Walnut Creek, CA October 2024

Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall.

As the days begin to cool slightly, I am filled with gratitude and excitement as I write to you in our second Walnut Creek City Lifestyle issue. The overwhelming response to our September launch has been nothing short of inspiring, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you for the warm welcome and kind words. Your enthusiasm fuels our commitment to deliver content that is relevant, beautiful, and deeply rooted in our local community.

This October, as we transition from the summer's heat to the mild embrace of fall, we are reminded of each season's beauty and change. Our team is dedicated to capturing these moments and stories that resonate with those of us lucky to live here.

We are thrilled to feature Chef Hasan's inspiring journey at La Fontaine in this issue. From humble beginnings washing dishes, Chef Hasan's relentless passion and dedication have propelled him to the helm of one of the East Bay's finest dining establishments. His story is a testament to perseverance and the pursuit of excellence, qualities we hold dear at Walnut Creek City Lifestyle.

As we approach the season of giving, we are also inspired by the incredible work of Kailani Kimoto, a local Rossmoor Realtor whose commitment to community service is commendable. Her tireless efforts in giving back serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the impact one individual can have. Kailani's story encourages us all to embrace the spirit of generosity as we move from fall to winter.

We are committed to bringing you stories that celebrate the richness of our community and the individuals who make it extraordinary. We hope this issue inspires you to explore, engage, and enjoy all that our region has to offer.

Thank you once again for your support and enthusiasm. We look forward to continuing this journey with you, sharing stories that uplift and inspire each month.

Warm regards,

LAUREL KELLAM, PUBLISHER

@WALNUTCREEKCITYLIFESTYLE

October 2024

PUBLISHER

Laurel Kellam

laurel.kellam@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Hemananthani Sivanandam

hema.sivanandam@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Jennifer Starbuck

jennifer.starbuck@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER Cole Cronk

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Aika Cardin

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

ELEVATE YOUR HOME, INSIDE AND OUT WITH ASHER BROTHERS CONSTRUCTION

Transform your living spaces into elegant retreats with Asher Brothers Construction. We specialize in luxury home remodeling, offering services such as kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, additions, ADUs, and full home remodels. Enhance both the beauty and value of your interiors with our expertise and personalized designs that make a statement.

Transform your outdoors into exquisite escapesAsher Brothers Construction crafts custom patios and serene landscapes, creating environments perfect for relaxation and entertainment. Our exterior services include outdoor kitchens, artificial turf, patio covers, decks, retaining walls, hardscapes, and pool construction. Let us tailor each project to your lifestyle and redefine your outdoor living, turning every moment into an experience of comfort and beauty.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1—2: Highwire Coffee, outside the Walnut Creek BART station at Waymark Transit Village, is now open. Download the Highwire Coffee app and get 20% off your first order. 3—4: The National Night Out was held recently at the Broadway Plaza. The event was organized by the Walnut Creek Police Department. 6—7: The newly opened Prologue Coffee and Tea cafe is located inside the Walnut Creek Library. Purchase any drink this October and enjoy a butter croissant for just $1.00!

Commander Moving

Commander Moving, East Bay’s top relocation specialist, now serves Walnut Creek. Featured on Starz’s hit series “Blindspotting,” the company offers luxury residential and commercial moving with white-glove service. Licensed, insured, and known for exceptional care, Commander Moving ensures seamless transitions with climate-controlled storage and a team of professional and courteous movers. Trust Commander Moving for an efficient move that blends Hollywood glamour with unparalleled expertise. Experience where luxury meets efficiency.

Inner Health & Wellness

If you are embarking on a wellness jour ney, look no further than Inner Health & Wellness, where you can discover the power of nutrition. With more than 20 years of practice, founder, nutritionist, and dietitian Sahar Berjis incorporates functional and traditional nutrition to help her clients become successful in their wellness journey. Feel stronger, vibrant, and healthier with Inner Health Wellness. Visit innerhealthwellness.com/

Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce

Linda Vesneski is the new Vice President of Engagement at the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce. She was first hired in 2015 as the Membership Sales Manager and was promoted to Director of Engagement in 2021 under the lead ership of Bob Linscheid, the chamber’s President and CEO. Linda works with the members and ambassadors to support businesses in the region and organizes phenomenal events.

LOCAL GEMS Walnut Creek around

A Glimpse Into Salon Hanover’s Founder Krystal Kerkezian’s Top Picks

From charming breakfasts to chic boutiques and perfect staycations, here are some of the favorite spots of Krystal Kerkezian, the founder and owner of Salon Hanover in Walnut Creek.

ARTICLE BY HEMANANTHANI SIVANANDAM PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADOBE STOCK PHOTOS

Disclaimer: The featured photos are stock images and do not represent the business.

SUNRISE BISTRO:

It is the best breakfast spot and an example of community leadership.

DELICIOUZ BOUTIQUE:

A local upscale clothing store with the best personalized services.

FIZZ:

Who doesn’t love a swanky champagne bar?

TELLUS:

It has the most original vibe and the best-brewed coffee in town!

JSX:

Offers convenient access to jet-setting getaways!

LAFAYETTE PARK HOTEL:

It is one of the most charming and best staycation hotels.

MAIN STREET KITCHEN:

It offers the most artistic food and the best cocktails in town!

A comfortable lounge area where people can enjoy their cocktails before dinner.

THE JOURNEY OF CHEF HASAN YILDIZ

From Fables to Culinary Feasts

““You get the best of both worlds,”  said Hasan.

In the 1970s, an elementary school student in Turkey stumbled upon a book that would leave a lasting impression on his life: Jean de La Fontaine's Fables. Little did he know, this collection of timeless stories would become a cornerstone of his future, influencing his career and the creation of his own restaurant decades later. Fast forward 40 years to 2012, that boy from Turkey had grown into a man with a passion for food and a dream to share it with the world. This is the story of Chef Hasan Yildiz and his restaurant, La Fontaine, in Walnut Creek.

Hasan initially pursued a career as an engineer but quickly realized that his true calling was for cooking and the dining experience. So, in 2002, he moved to California, determined to turn his passion into a profession. He started at the very bottom, getting a job as a dishwasher, but learned the ropes in the culinary world. In 2012, he opened the first La Fontaine in Mountain View as a restaurant and catering business that reflected his unique approach to cuisine. Although Hasan enjoys many cooking styles-- from Thai to Mexican to Greek-- he decided to create a fusion cuisine with French and Italian influences.

"You get the best of both worlds," said Hasan.

In 2021, nearly a decade after the success of his first restaurant, Hasan expanded and opened a second La Fontaine location in Walnut Creek. The restaurant, located downtown on North Broadway between Cypress and Duncan Street, reflects Hasan's artistic vision and attention to detail. The restaurant's symmetrical façade is a harmonious interplay of light and dark wood tones. The interior

has an open yet inviting ambiance with a minimalist touch that uses the same earthy palette and dark wood flooring. Even the private dining room seamlessly blends into the overall space, echoing how La Fontaine presents his fables as smaller experiences that are part of a greater whole. Couples share appetizers in one corner while others enjoy cocktails and drinks at the bar. Diners, on the other hand, savor the culinary masterpieces served here. A copy of La Fontaine's book can be found inside the restaurant, although most people pass by it, unaware of its connection to the very essence of the restaurant. The fox on the cover of "Fables" may look familiar—it's the same sleek and minimalistic design featured in the restaurant's logo, striking a pose that reflects the establishment's architectural elegance.

Hasan's dedication to his craft has not gone unnoticed. This year, Hasan and La Fontaine won three awards from Diablo Magazine: "Best Chef," "Most Romantic Restaurant," and "Best Special Occasion Restaurant." Hasan's son, Onur, helps run the restaurant as well. Onur considers himself lucky to taste his father's culinary creations before anyone else.

"I don't like lamb," he admits, "but Chef makes it with a pistachio crust and fig sauce… he can make anything taste delicious," said Onur.

Onur also emphasized his father's love for La Fontaine's "Fables," recalling how the stories were integral to his childhood.

"I associate it with so many things. My dad, this restaurant, France, Turkey… it means a lot to us," said Onur.

“I like my customers to enjoy that atmosphere. That's why my lounge area is comfortable."

I don’t like lamb, but Chef makes it with a pistachio crust and fig sauce… he can make anything taste delicious, said Onur. “ ”

La Fontaine created his seminal work by gathering tales from both the Eastern and Western worlds and translating them into French free verse, which was then translated into numerous languages all over the world. Its pages contain wisdom from many sources, a practice that shows La Fontaine was ahead of his time. Now, over 300 years after his death, his words still resonate with many.

One of the many powerful quotes in the book says, "By the work, one knows the workman." Hasan's work shows that he is a man inspired by art. He has built a restaurant, a family, and a life in America that centers around a book containing stories and lessons representing his values.

He has taken all of those things within him and then created something himself. It's not just a restaurant or a menu but an experience. Today, schools worldwide still use La Fontaine's Fables as teaching material, and parents use it to read to their children before bed. Little do they know that the book exists as a fairy tale dining experience in our own Walnut Creek.

You can read more about the restaurant, including its menu and catering services, at www.lafontainerestaurant. com/walnut-creek-home. They currently serve lunch and dinner, but they will soon announce plans to add brunch, although the Chef's least favorite thing to cook is eggs.

ELEVATE YOUR CLOSET

4 WAYS TO ORGANIZE AND INJECT STYLE INTO YOUR SPACE

Every woman dreams of an organized and beautiful closet space, but it often comes last on the list of places that get their time and attention. Follow our four tips for transforming and elevating your closet. How you organize your closet will of course differ based on the size of your space, the size of your wardrobe, and the kind of life you lead. But applying these guidelines will result in a much more organized and aesthetically pleasing space.

MAKE A STATEMENT ORGANIZE BY KIND AND COLOR

Why use an armchair when you have room for a sofa? Slide up a stool and colorful area rug to complete the look. If you have excessive wall space, consider a mini gallery wall or a statement wall with wallpaper to polish things off.

01 02 04

Group clothes first by kind and color second. Group like with like and decide the best place to store each item as a group (e.g., hang pants in the closet, fold and stack sweaters in a bureau). Working with groupings will help you figure out how much space you need and the best way to store each type of item.

UPGRADED HANGERS 03

The simplest and fastest way to make a BIG difference in your closet organization is to get matching hangers that go beyond the traditional plastic or wire hangers. And for sure ditch any with paper from the dry cleaner!

FACE CLOTHES THE SAME DIRECTION

It may seem silly, but when dealing with a small space, little things count. Hanging all clothes the same direction is a no-brainer for continuity in your closet.

Kailani Kimoto

ARTICLE BY HEMANANTHANI SIVANANDAM | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY KAILANI KIMOTO

THE ART OF GIVING BACK

““I also contribute $30 monthly, which helps provide food resources for over 60 families,” said Kailani.

As a realtor, Kailani Kimoto is dedicated to helping people find their perfect home. She is also passionate about giving back to the community. She makes it a point to reach out to organizations and individuals to see if they need assistance and offers her support where it's needed most.

One of the most rewarding experiences for Kailani was collaborating with the pickleball club in Rossmoor to raise funds for the Michael J. Fox Foundation in the fight against Parkinson's disease. The goal was $50,000, but through collective effort and dedication, they raised over $90,000.

In addition to large-scale fundraising, she volunteers with her Citylife East Bay church members in Walnut Creek. They work with the Foodbank of Contra Costa to help sort and pack food for families in need.

"I also contribute $30 monthly, which helps provide food resources for over 60 families.

"This is a great way to bring your family, church members, and others together and remind them how people in our own community need help," said Kailani.

Recently, she supported the Hawaiian State Club in their efforts to raise funds and aid those affected by the Lahaina fire in Maui.

Kailani flew to Maui, sourced local items, put together baskets of local Maui items, and auctioned them off by selling raffle tickets.

"We raised $70,000 at this event, which was amazing," she said.

Kailani Kimoto

Kailani has over a decade of dedicated service to the Rossmoor Community. Kailani is not just about helping you buy or sell a home; she’s passionate about making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Her approach is rooted in genuine care and professionalism, ensuring that each client receives top-notch customer service.

For details, contact Kailani at: kailani.rossmoorrealty@gmail.com | (925) 595-7924 | www.kailanikimoto.com

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A Handmade Date Night

Make it feel like an extra special at-home date night with thoughtful touches from the heart—and hands.

A date night at home is the perfect occasion to shower your loved ones with affection and appreciation. While storebought gifts and cards have their charm, there’s something incredibly special about receiving a handmade gesture. By opting for a handmade date night, you’re not just expressing love but also showcasing your thoughtfulness and effort. These handmade creations convey a personal touch that can’t be replicated.

From-Scratch Pasta

what you need

Lavender Bath Salt Blend

what you need

16 ounces Bokek Dead Sea Salt 20 drops lavender essential oil

what you do

In a mixing bowl, add drops of the essential oil to the bath salt and mix well; store in a glass jar. Add 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the scented salts to a bath for a relaxing experience. SeaSalt.com

Yield: 1 pound

2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

4 large eggs

what you do

1. Mound the flour in the center of a work surface with a well in the middle. Crack the eggs into the well and beat with a fork until smooth, then work flour into eggs with the fork. Use a bench scraper to work in the rest of the flour a little at a time. When the flour is incorporated, form the dough with your hands into a rounded mass for kneading. Lightly dust your workspace with flour and knead dough about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover dough with a bowl or plastic wrap and rest 1 1/2 hours, or chill overnight.

2. To roll by hand, flour a clean work surface. Vigorously roll dough to a very thin circle and roll constantly with even pressure as it stretches for several minutes until as thin as possible, almost translucent.

3. To cut by hand, lightly fold sheets one at a time into thirds and cut to desired thickness. Recipe from MarthaStewart.com

Dark Chocolate Truffles

what you need

1/2 cup heavy cream

8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 cup cocoa powder, for dusting

what you do

1. Bring the cream to just a simmer in a saucepan over low heat. Pour the cream over the chocolate in a bowl and let stand about 10 minutes to melt the chocolate. Add the vanilla, stir until smooth and set aside to cool for 1 hour at room temperature.

2. Beat chocolate at medium speed until thick and light-colored. Spread over the bottom of a baking dish, smooth and refrigerate 2 hours until firm.

3. Pour cocoa powder onto a deep plate or shallow bowl, and using a melon baller or small ice cream scoop, scoop out balls of chocolate. Roll in cocoa powder until coated and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Recipe from FoodNetwork.com

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.

events

OCTOBER 4TH

Movies Under the Stars: Inside Out 2

Civic Park 1375 Civic Dr Walnut Creek | 6:30 PM

Enjoy a movie night under the stars at Civic Park with blankets, low chairs, and beverages. Get food from Hella Mas, a Mexican Filipino food truck, or shaved ice and sweet treats from Snowie Bus, which will be on-site for delicious picnic dinners starting at 7 p.m. The movies will start just after sundown.

OCTOBER 12TH

Hello Kitty Cafe Truck Appearance

1275 Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek | 10:00 AM

Hello Kitty fans, stop by the Hello Kitty Cafe Truck on Broadway Plaza between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to pick up some supercute treats and merchandizes while supplies last!

OCTOBER 19TH

Public Art Walking Tours

Meet at the Lesher Center for the Arts Plaza (1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, CA). | 10:00 AM

Take a stroll around Walnut Creek and discover the wonderful downtown public art collection. The Bedford Gallery offers a one-hour docent-led walking tour, during which you can gain insights about the city's art collection. Wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen, as the tours are approximately one hour long. Adults $5, under 18 free.

realty report

I’m committed to making a difference in our community. Volunteering, fundraising, and donating are just a few ways I give back. Because it’s not just about finding you a home; it’s about building a better community together.

OCTOBER 25TH

5th annual Trunk or Treat

Civic Park 1375 Civic Dr Walnut Creek | 2:00 PM

Get ready for a spine-tinglingly good time at the 5th annual Trunk or Treat event. Bring the whole family and stroll through the "trick-ortreat" lane, where there will be various booths with activities, games, and candy galore! Enjoy the bounce houses, face-painting, balloon twisters, and food trucks on sight, making it a spooktacular night!

OCTOBER 26TH

Barbie Truck Dreamhouse Living Tour

1275 Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek | 10:00 AM

Barbie is living the dream and cruising Walnut Creek! Come check out the new Dreamhouse Living Tour with exclusive merch only available on the Barbie Truck Tour!

OCTOBER 27TH

Dragon Lady

Lesher Center for the Arts 1601 Civic Drive Walnut Creek

Watch this musical, which was written and performed by Sara Porkalob. On her 60th birthday, Maria Porkalob unspools her mesmerizing origin story to get the attention of her granddaughter, Sara. In honoring her grandmother’s life and legacy, Sara masterfully embodies countless colorful characters from Maria’s sensational history!

The Passion of Italy Meets the elegance of France

La Fontaine took its name from the great 17th Century French poet and fabulist, Jean de la Fontaine. Just like La Fontaine’s colorful imagery, our food is filled with colorful spices from France and Italy. This style of cuisine is called Provençale, the best of both worlds in Southern Europe.

3 Course Menu For Two. Choose two starters, two entrees, and two desserts for $125. Sunday-Thursday

We know the value of enjoying an authentic meal with family, friends, and colleagues. Let us share our love of food with you.