Life + Culture

Contra Costa’s Wine Boom.

Historic Roots, Modern Recognition Article by Samantha Durbin | Photography by Stock Photos Contra Costa’s conditions are ideal for grape growing. Deep, sandy soils encourage wandering root systems, soaking up water, producing small, concentrated berries with thick skins. Rolling hills lock in daytime heat, while the Carquinez Bridge channels bay breezes, bringing cold nights and cool mornings.  While Brentwood is the U-Pick capital of the world, with seasonal farms growing bounties such as...

Food + Beverage

A Refined Taste of Turkey

PiddeG Arrives in Walnut Creek Article by Laurel Kellam | Photography by Sajia Bidar - Satori Studios Walnut Creek’s dining scene just got a flavorful new star. PiddeG, a family-owned and locally operated restaurant, has officially opened its doors at the Encina Grande Shopping Center, bringing a taste of modern Mediterranean cuisine. At the center of the menu is their signature dish, Pidde —a traditional Turkish flatbread that’s often called the “cousin of pizza.” Baked in a stone oven, it...

Life + Culture

Roman Tradition Meets America’s Passion for Dining

Fresh ingredients, authenticity, and passion fuel unforgettable meals at Montesacro Article by Lindsey Hickman | Photography by Emre Cakir Step inside Montesacro and you’re immediately transported—not just to another trendy restaurant, but to a corner of Rome that feels both timeless and alive. The air carries the warmth of fresh-baked pinsa , the Roman flatbread that’s lighter and crisper than pizza yet just as comforting. At the helm is Gianluca Legrottaglie, the man who introduced pinsa ...

Health + Wellness

The Four Pillars of Health

Dr. Ari Katz’s Simple Approach to Lasting Wellness Article by Ryan Phillips | Photography by Simone Rotman Ari Katz, M.D., isn't your average doctor. When he’s not treating patients at Banner Peak Health, you'll probably find him doing something active, like camping with his three young boys, jamming on the drums, or patiently persuading a picky kid that broccoli isn’t the enemy. For Katz, nutrition isn’t just part of leading a healthy lifestyle. It comes first and is a non-negotiable...

Life + Culture

From Wine Country to Walnut Creek

A Mother-Daughter Recipe for Bakery Success Article by Lindsey Hickman | Photography by John Klycinski When Model Bakery opened its doors in Walnut Creek last year, the response was immediate and enthusiastic. Lines stretched down the block, filled with locals eager to get a taste of the legendary English muffins that have captured the attention of Oprah Winfrey, Forbes, and food lovers across the country. Founded in the heart of Napa Valley by Karen Mitchell and her daughter, Sarah Mitchell...

Food + Beverage

Walnut Creek’s Best Desserts.

Cookies, Cupcakes & Ice Cream You’ll Crave This Fall. Article and Photography by Emily Viscia October brings cozy evenings, crisp air, and the perfect excuse to indulge in something sweet. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cookie, a decadent scoop of ice cream, or a beautifully crafted cupcake, Walnut Creek has plenty of delicious options to satisfy your cravings. Our writer stopped by three local favorites — each with its specialty — to explore the flavors that make them irresistible. ...

Arts + Culture

Celebrate Fall with Style

Walnut Creek City Lifestyle’s Favorite Finds Article by Walnut Creek City Lifestyle | Photography by Stock Photos As we celebrate the  first anniversary of Walnut Creek City Lifestyle , we’re letting you in on a little secret—our seasonal obsessions! From the scents we’re wearing to the rituals we’re loving, our editorial team is sharing what’s inspiring us this fall. Laurel Kellam (Publisher)   Fragrance We’re Wearing  –  Nuxe Body Oil  - A  beauty essential, this luxurious dry oil...

Education

The Sydney Paige Foundation

Empowering Students With Quality School Supplies Article by Cole Cronk | Photography by Provided by The Sydney Paige Foundation Courtney Brockmeyer, the founder and CEO of the Sydney Paige Foundation, recognizes the importance of education and the necessity of school supplies to achieve academic success in the classroom. This is why the foundation's primary goal is to provide low-income communities with quality school supplies, including backpacks, pencils, paper, folders, scissors, rulers...

Life + Culture

Olympic Champion Kristi Yamaguchi's Always Dream

Helping Bay Area Kids Discover Big Dreams Through Reading Article by Ryan Phillips | Photography by Provided by Kristi Yamaguchi's Always Dream Kristi Yamaguchi's journey from the ice rinks of Fremont to the top of the Olympic podium is a story about the power of dreaming big. Born in Hayward and raised in the Bay Area, Kristi began skating at just six years old, lacing up her skates at the local rink in Southland Mall. What began as a childhood fascination with the annual ice show evolved...

Life + Culture

Style That Gives Back

How Walnut Creek’s Thrift Shops Are Turning Fashion into a Force for Good Article and Photography by Emily Viscia In Walnut Creek, two beloved thrift shops are redefining what it means to shop with purpose. At Leftovers Thrift Shop and the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop , every purchase supports a cause, every visit feels like a treasure hunt, and every customer becomes part of something bigger.  Leftovers Thrift Shop ,  located on Olympic Boulevard, has been   a cherished...