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Letter from the Editor
Welcome to our Foodie issue, where we indulge in the season's finest flavors and culinary delights! As autumn graces us with its vibrant colors and cozy atmosphere, we're excited to bring you a collection of articles that celebrate the heart of good eating.
This month, we delve into the world of Sweet Azalea Gourmet Shop & Catering, where Chef Bill Coxwell’s passion for from-scratch cooking shines through. Discover the story behind this beloved local gem and its role in Augusta’s dining scene.
Our feature on fall squashes offers a delicious guide to three seasonal favorites—Butternut, Acorn, and Spaghetti Squash. Learn how to savor their unique flavors with delectable recipes that are perfect for the cooler months.
And, of course, we visit Cadwalladers Café, one of Augusta’s oldest and finest dining establishments. Explore the charm and sophistication of this local institution, known for its exceptional Seafood Risotto and Porkchop.
We hope this issue inspires you to explore new culinary experiences and enjoy the rich flavors of the season.
Happy reading and happy eating!
BAILEY HALL, EDITOR
@CITYLIFESTYLEAUGUSTA
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Jana Morris | jana.morris@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Bailey Hall | bailey.hall@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Michelle Parnell | michelle.parnell@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Daria Terry
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Daniel Morris
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Bailey Hall
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Randy Pace
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Registration for the 2024 Buddy Walk is Now Open
Don't forget to register for the Upside of Downs 2024 Buddy Walk! Upside of Downs celebrates people with Down Syndrome by promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion. The Buddy Walk features a short walk around the park, bounce houses, obstacle courses, food and business vendors, face painting, games, superheroes, princesses, and more! For more information and to register, visit Charity.PledgeIt.org/BuddyWalkAugusta.
Smiles for Hope Donation
For over a decade, Dr. Lopez and his dedicated team at Comprehensive Dentistry of Augusta have generously supported Hope House families through their Smiles for Hope fundraising campaign. This local partnership has been instrumental in helping families at Hope House recover and rebuild healthy lives, showcasing the incredible impact of community involvement.
Southern Trails Vet Now Open in Evans
Clifton Construction, led by owner Rob Clifton, recently completed the new Southern Trails Vet in Evans. Hired by AcharaVet, the project showcases Clifton’s commitment to quality. Stanford Bell from AcharaVet praises their work saying, “Even on the tough projects, Clifton Construction is on time, on budget, and high quality. We have been very pleased with their professionalism.” Southern Trails Vet is now open, offering top-notch veterinary care to the local community.
Taste of A TRADITION
Exploring the Flavors, Artistry, and Community Spirit Behind Augusta's Favorite Gourmet Shop
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
Nestled in the heart of Augusta, Sweet Azalea Gourmet Shop & Catering stands as a testament to culinary excellence and community connection. At the helm is Chef Bill Coxwell, a master in the kitchen whose passion for cooking began as a child. "Since an early age, I’ve had a desire to cook," Chef Bill recalls. Growing up, his father handled most of the cooking, while his mother baked the delicious pound cakes
and banana puddings. "At Christmas, I would help Mama make candies like fudge and divinity, and we would package them in tins to give to neighbors," Chef Bill shares, reminiscing about one of his fondest memories.
Chef Bill honed his culinary skills at Johnson and Wales University, and he quickly gained recognition for his famous Cheese Straws. As the demand for his products grew, Chef Bill sought to make his packaging as special as the treats inside. To achieve this, he commissioned local artist Melanie Stokes, who created the azalea artwork for the Cheese Straw tins and the cotton artwork for the Cotton Blossom Cookies. This collaboration is just one example of how Chef Bill has used Sweet Azalea to support and promote other local entrepreneurs.
With demand outpacing his home kitchen's capacity, Chef Bill took a leap of faith in 2020 by opening a storefront on Central Avenue. Initially conceived as a retail space for gourmet to-go, the shop quickly expanded into a full-fledged catering business. "It was just time to make the move to a brick-and-mortar store," says Chef Bill.
The evolution of Sweet Azalea didn’t stop there. When the neighboring barbershop vacated its space, Chef Bill seized the opportunity to expand. "We opened up the original wall and added on the café," he explains. The café at Sweet Azalea offers a rotating selection of specials, including a weekly blue plate featuring different meats and vegetables. One standout menu item is the Neptune Melt—a shrimp and crab salad on an English muffin, topped with Swiss cheese and heated to perfection. Another favorite is the Reuben, made with lean corned beef that keeps customers coming back for more. The casseroles, another popular offering, include both staples and seasonal specials.
Today, Sweet Azalea offers more than just food; it’s a hub for local artistry, featuring works by local artists for sale, and a variety of gift items. From gourmet jams and mustards to home decor and other thoughtful gifts, it is a one-stop shop for both food and shopping enthusiasts.
The shop's name, Sweet Azalea, pays homage to Augusta's rich heritage. "I wanted to capitalize on the notoriety of the azalea in this area," Chef Bill explains. The name has since become synonymous with the neighborhood’s charm. "I feel like Summerville claims us, and it’s just something that was supposed to be," he adds. Sweet Azalea has become more than just a gourmet shop; it’s a vital part of the area’s cultural fabric. "We maintain a quality standard and try to accommodate our customers' needs as much as we can," Chef Bill says. "But the main thing is that we want to be an asset to the community and provide something that people need and want."
This October, Chef Bill is set to release his fourth cookbook, Southern Menus Season by Season , a much-anticipated follow-up to a book he wrote 20 years ago. "It’s broken down into seasons, with special menus per season to help with menu planning," Chef Bill explains. The cookbook offers three to four menus per season, including unique themes like Engagement Barbecues, Christening Luncheons, Tex Mex parties, and even a section dedicated to remembrance foods.
Sweet Azalea Gourmet Shop & Catering is located at 2569 Central Avenue. To stay updated on weekly specials, follow them on Facebook and Instagram at @SweetAzaleaAugusta. For catering inquiries, call 706.364.5059. Chef Bill’s new cookbook, Southern Menus Season by Season , will be released in mid-October and will be available at the Sweet Azalea gift shop, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.
SAVORING THESEASON
As the crisp air of autumn settles in, the vibrant colors and rich flavors of fall squashes come to life in our kitchens. These versatile gourds not only add warmth to your table but also offer a variety of culinary possibilities. Whether you’re craving something savory, sweet, or hearty, there’s a squash that fits the bill. This season, we’re spotlighting three favorites: Butternut Squash, Acorn Squash, and Spaghetti Squash.
WARM UP YOUR KITCHEN WITH DELICIOUS RECIPES
FEATURING FALL’S FAVORITE GOURDS
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
Butternut Squash Butternut Squash Soup with Sage and Brown Butter
Butternut squash, with its smooth, tan skin and sweet, nutty flesh, is a staple in fall cuisine. Its flavor profile is rich and slightly earthy, making it a perfect base for both savory and sweet dishes. When roasted, butternut squash develops a caramelized exterior and a soft, velvety interior that pairs beautifully with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and sage. One of the most popular ways to enjoy this versatile squash is in a warm, comforting soup.
To prepare, roast cubed butternut squash with olive oil until tender. In a pot, sauté onions and garlic in butter until translucent. Add the roasted squash and vegetable broth, then blend until smooth. For a luxurious finish, drizzle the soup with brown butter infused with fresh sage. This dish is a true celebration of fall, perfect for chilly evenings.
Acorn Squash
Maple-Glazed Acorn Squash with Pecans and Cranberries
Acorn squash, easily recognized by its ribbed, dark green skin and vibrant orange flesh, offers a mildly sweet and slightly nutty flavor. Its small size and natural bowl shape make it ideal for stuffing or roasting in rings. When baked, acorn squash becomes tender and buttery, complementing both sweet and savory ingredients.
A standout dish for fall is Maple-Glazed Acorn Squash with Pecans and Cranberries, which highlights the squash’s natural sweetness.
Slice the squash into rings and remove the seeds. Arrange on a baking sheet and brush with a mixture of maple syrup, melted butter, and a pinch of cinnamon. Roast until tender, then sprinkle with toasted pecans and dried cranberries. The combination of flavors—sweet, tart, and nutty—makes this dish a perfect side for holiday dinners or cozy weeknight meals.
Spaghetti Squash
Spaghetti Squash with Garlic, Parmesan, and Spinach
Spaghetti squash is known for its unique flesh that, when cooked, pulls apart into spaghetti-like strands. This low-carb alternative to pasta has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a satisfying texture, making it a favorite among health-conscious eaters. Its versatility allows it to pair well with a variety of sauces and toppings, from marinara to pesto.
For a simple yet flavorful dish, try Spaghetti Squash with Garlic, Parmesan, and Spinach.
Roast the squash until tender, then use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands. In a skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Toss the squash strands with the garlic, spinach, and a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese. For a bit of heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes. This dish is light, nutritious, and full of flavor.
Relishing Augusta’s Best
THE EXPERIENCE AT CADWALLADERS CAFÉ
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RANDY PACE
“We’re a made-from-scratch restaurant, and we use only the highest quality products.”
— JOHN DONNER, OWNER
Nestled in the heart of Augusta, Cadwalladers Café has been a cornerstone of the local dining scene since 1987. As one of the oldest and finest dining establishments in the area, this locally-owned gem offers a dining experience that stands apart from the typical chain restaurants. The owner, John Donner, is dedicated to maintaining the high standards that have kept Cadwalladers thriving for decades.
“We’re a made-from-scratch restaurant, and we use only the highest quality products,” says John. “We try to shop local and support other local farmers and produce markets,” he continues. This commitment to quality is evident in every dish, from the carefully crafted appetizers to the rich and flavorful entrees. The menu, which changes weekly, showcases an array of American cuisine, ensuring that both new and returning guests have something to look forward to. While specialty items rotate to keep the experience fresh, fan favorites remain, often with slight enhancements.
Two dishes that consistently draw praise are the Seafood Risotto and the Porkchop. The Seafood Risotto, a creamy parmesan risotto with sautéed shrimp and scallops, is a standout.
“It’s rich and everyone loves that,” John shares. This indulgent dish, currently featuring artichoke hearts, snow peas, and mushrooms in a creamy white wine sauce, is a testament to the Cadwalladers Café’s ability to elevate classic flavors.
Equally celebrated is the Porkchop, renowned as “the best in town” by regulars. Topped with a lusty monk mustard sauce, this dish is nothing short of phenomenal. In addition to these favorites, the menu occasionally includes unique offerings like lamb, bison, and rare catches like Golden Tilefish, making each visit a new adventure in dining.
Cadwalladers Café also boasts an extensive wine selection, a full bar, and one of the largest whiskey collections in the CSRA. Whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine with your meal or exploring their whiskey offerings, the beverage menu is crafted to complement the dining experience.
As the holidays approach, Cadwalladers’ private dining room is the perfect venue for intimate gatherings and special occasions. Located at 106 Davis Road, Cadwalladers Café is the go-to destination for a refined dining experience in Augusta. Reservations can be made by calling 706.860.7444 or visiting CadwalladersCafe.com
YUM YUM YUM YUM YUM
OCTOBER 12TH
Evans Beer Fest
Columbia County Performing Arts Center
After a successful first year, Evans Beer Fest is excited to bring another unique experience to beer enthusiasts in the area. With over 150 beers to sample, from local, regional, and national breweries, there’s something for everyone. For more information, visit EvansBeerFest.com.
OCTOBER 12TH - 13TH
Show Me Reptile Show & Pet Expo
Columbia County Exhibition Center
The Show Me Reptile Show & Pet Expo is back at the Columbia County Exhibition Center on October 12th and 13th. This event is your passport to a reptilian wonderland where you can not only admire these remarkable animals, but also take home a scaly friend of your own! For more information and tickets, visit ShowMeReptileShow.com
OCTOBER 17TH
Trick or Treat at Evans Towne Center Park
Evans Town Center Park
The park will be transformed into a Halloween wonderland, featuring not-so-spooky decorations with over 100 candy stations, delicious food vendors, and a ghoulishly good time for visitors of all ages. The annual Trick or Treat event will be on October 17th from 6PM to 9PM.
OCTOBER 24TH
Business Networking Event
935 Ronald Reagan Dr
Calling all local business owners! Join us and JT Realty Group on October 24th at 5:30PM at Goat Kick Coffee in Evans for our CSRA Business Networking Event. Dinner and lattes will be provided. Remember to bring plenty of business cards to pass out!
OCTOBER 26TH
The 5th Annual Holiday Craft Market
Our Savior Episcopal Church
Come out to Our Savior Episcopal Church on October 26th from 9AM to 3PM and shop for the holiday season! This is a fun, family-friendly event. Grab lunch at their Grill Station and children can be kept busy at the Kids Activity Corner.
OCTOBER 31ST
Halloween
Happy Halloween from the Augusta City Lifestyle Team! Remember to be safe while you go Trick-or-Treating!
