As Lifestyle Editor for The Daily Duffer, I’m always looking for ways to connect the vibrant world of golf with the richness of our lives off the course. We all know golf is more than just a game; it’s a lifestyle that influences our friendships, our fitness, and even our fashion. But what about our taste buds? What about those moments of shared joy and flavor that linger long after the final putt drops?
That’s why I was so intrigued by the buzz around the Omni PGA Frisco’s Savor event. Our globe-trotting GOLF contributor, Shaun Tolson, recently recounted his experience, and it’s clear this isn’t just another food festival. It’s a testament to how beautifully golf culture can intertwine with culinary artistry, offering experiences that captivate all our senses.
Shaun, who clocked an impressive 110,000 frequent-flyer miles in 2025 (talk about dedication!), sees countless golf clubs and resorts. For him to highlight Savor as something truly special speaks volumes. He describes it as an authentic celebration of “food, drink, golf, and music.” And after reading his delicious recap, I’m convinced that integrating such high-caliber culinary experiences into our golf lives is a game-changer.
“There was an intimate feeling of community that doesn’t always happen at some of the other festivals. What did it for me was the live music. That was the through-line that made it feel very Texas.”
Chef Antonia Lofaso’s words perfectly capture what I believe defines quality lifestyle experiences: community, atmosphere, and a unique sense of place. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the entire sensory tapestry woven around it. For golfers, this means finding events and destinations that offer more than just stellar courses. It’s about seeking out those places where the dining is as memorable as the tee shots, where the atmosphere encourages camaraderie, and where local culture shines through.
Beyond the Green: Elevating Your Golf Lifestyle with Culinary Adventures
So, what can we, as everyday golfers, take away from a high-profile event like Savor? It’s not about booking a flight to Frisco every time (though who wouldn’t want to dig into some of those dishes!). It’s about embracing the spirit of culinary exploration and incorporating it into our own golf routines:
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Shaun Tolson
1. The Post-Round Epicurean Adventure
Think beyond the usual clubhouse burger. Seek out golf courses that pride themselves on their dining options. Many clubs are now elevating their menus, featuring local ingredients and talented chefs. Imagine finishing a challenging round and being rewarded with something truly exceptional, like Chef Kevin Lee’s “rich and robust” Gochujang Glazed Sticky Ribs. That kind of culinary delight can turn a good golf day into an unforgettable one.
2. Infuse Your Golf Trips with Local Flavor
When planning your next golf getaway, put as much thought into your dining itinerary as you do your tee times. Shaun highlighted Chef Kevin Sbraga’s fire-roasted tenderloin at Savor, served as “a love letter to beef.” This reminds us to explore the local specialties of your destination. Is it famous for seafood? BBQ? Wine? Engage with the regional cuisine. It’s an integral part of experiencing a new place and creates richer memories than generic fare.
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Shaun Tolson
3. The Art of the ‘Dynamic Bite’
Chef Beau MacMillan’s Seared Dayboat Scallops at Savor, with “matcha and passionfruit pearls,” sound like a revelation. The dish was not only visually stunning but provided “a surprising pop of flavor that kept the dish light and refreshing.” This is a gentle nudge for us to be more adventurous in our culinary choices. Don’t always stick to the familiar. Try that unusual appetizer, or order a dessert that sparks curiosity. These “dynamic bites” elevate a meal from merely satisfying to truly exciting.
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Shaun Tolson
4. Indulge in Whimsy and Artistry
Perhaps the most enchanting detail from Savor was the “drama and theater” of Omni PGA Frisco’s resident pastry chef, Leen Nunn. Her creations, like the chocolate cake trifle “served in a Dr. Pepper can… with an edible bubble cloud,” captivated everyone. So much so that Chef Lofaso noted:
“There was this drama and theater to it, which I thought was really cool.”
This highlights that dining can be an art form, a performance that engages as much as it nourishes. Don’t be afraid to seek out those unexpected delights, whether it’s a beautifully plated dessert at your local golf club or a unique treat from a nearby bakery. These small moments of culinary artistry add sparkle to our daily lives and our golf experiences.
As a writer who traverses the globe covering golf, travel and all things food and beverage — and who racked up 110,000 frequent-flyer miles in 2025 — GOLF contributor Shaun Tolson has visited some of the world’s most famous golf clubs, resorts and best-kept secrets. Below, in Clubhouse Eats, he shares some of his favorite bites and sips from his recent travels.
In less than two months, a marquee-worthy lineup of all-star Texas chefs and Food Network stars will take over Omni PGA Frisco for the resort’s second annual Savor event. Billed as a celebration of food, drink, golf, and music, Savor is authentically all of those things, which I learned firsthand last May when I attended the inaugural event.
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5 best things this golf travel writer ate or drank last month
Golf, at its heart, is about connection – to the land, to the game, and to each other. By consciously weaving exceptional culinary experiences into our golf lifestyle, we deepen those connections and elevate our appreciation for all the game has to offer. So, next time you’re planning a round or a golf trip, remember to ask: What delicious adventures await?
