805 Living Winter 2022

W I N T E R 2022

New Year Fresh Start

®

E X C L U S I V E LY AT CONEJO HARDWOODS

FRONT, LEFT: Duncan Hizzey: Financial Advisor; Seth Haye: Managing Director-Wealth Management, Financial Advisor; Katie Arnold: Financial Advisor; BACK, LEFT: Stephanie Hartmire: Wealth Management Associate; Elisa Decker: Group Director; Clint Spivey: Consulting Group Analyst; Jessica Hudson: Client Service Associate

The O ks Group Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors 2021—Seth Haye Barron’s Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State 2021—Seth Haye

WEALTH MANAGEMENT FOR HIGH-NET-WORTH FAMILIES 805-494-0215 · 100 N. Westlake Blvd., Suite 200, Westlake Village, CA 91362 Source: Forbes.com (February, 2021). Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes: client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors pay a fee to Forbes or SHOOK Research in exchange for the ranking. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com.

Source: Barrons.com (March 2021). Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State as identified by Barron’s magazine, using quantitative and qualitative criteria and selected from a pool of over 4,000 nominations. Advisors in the Top 1,200 Financial Advisors list have a minimum of seven years of financial services experience. Qualitative factors include, but are not limited to, compliance record and philanthropic work. Investment performance is not a criterion. The rating may not be representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of the financial advisor’s future performance. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors pays a fee to Barron’s in exchange for the rating. Barron’s is a registered trademark of Dow Jones & Company, L.P. All rights reserved.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 4021153 12/21

winter

INSIDE-OUT TenayaLodge.com | (559) 683-6555 | Fish Camp, CA

5 reasons

TO EXPLORE YOSEMITE THIS WINTER

Whether you’re one to brave the elements or relax by a warm fire, Tenaya Lodge is home to the winter of your dreams. You can journey through frozen landscapes in Yosemite Valley, hike waterfall trails and admire the world’s largest trees at the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. It’s easy to experience this when you stay at Tenaya Lodge, which is just two miles from Yosemite National Park.

With so much to do, where do you begin? Here are 5 things you can experience in Yosemite that would give anyone a warm feeling.

1 2 3 4 5

Bundle up and go on a brisk snowshoe hike through the Sierra wilderness.

Lace up your skates and hit the ice on Tenaya’s own outdoor ice rink.

Embrace the beauty of winter in Yosemite Valley on a Tenaya Lodge guided tour.

Hit up Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area for some thrilling winter action.

Go sledding with the kids on Tenaya’s onproperty sledding hill – how long has it been?

It’s easy to embrace all aspects of the season at Tenaya Lodge.

MAKE THIS WINTER YOUR BEST YET.

Contents W I N T E R 2 0 2 2 • N E W Y E A R , F R E S H S TA R T

Features 62

A CHECKLIST FOR FINDING JOY

Keeping resolutions like these can have profound payoffs.

By Andrea Renskof f

71

MAKING MEMORIES

Area event professionals participate in a questionand-answer session, revealing trends and sharing inspiration for creating special occasions in 2022.

76

TREASURED MOMENTS

Transform a wedding or other special event into something extraordinary with the help of these local businesses.

Photographs by Elizabeth Messina

12

WINTER 2022 / 805LIVING.COM

ELIZABETH MESSINA; COVER: © MILLES STUDIO/STOCKSY UNITED

805 WEDDINGS EXTRA

LOC ALLY SO U RCE D · S E A SO NAL I N G R E D I E NTS · WOO D FI R E D 6 : 3 0A M - 1 0 P M

(81 8) 575 -304 4

·

O P E N DA I LY F O R D I N E - I N & TA K E O U T

COINANDCANDOR .COM

@COINANDCANDOR

Contents

W I N T E R 2 0 2 2 • N E W Y E A R , F R E S H S TA R T

46

44 90

57

41 Departments of the 805

By Victoria Woodard Harvey, Anthony Head, Nancy Ransohoff, and Erin Rottman

Finds 41 Modern Times

Make a striking statement with an up-to-the-minute wall clock.

By Jennie Nunn

44 STYLE: Fashionably Fit Dress in what moves you.

By Frances Ryan

46 TRAVEL

By Erin Rottman

Insider 50 Events In & Around the 805

By Heidi Dvorak

Arts & Culture 52 Starry, Starry Exhibition

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art brings Vincent van Gogh and friends to the Central Coast.

By Joan Tapper

14

WINTER 2022 / 805LIVING.COM

Upgrades 57 A Relaxing Oasis

Create a luxurious, modern bathing sanctuary for the ultimate self-care.

By Frances Ryan

Good Deeds 60 Montecito Bank & Trust

Community Dividends

Taste 84 FOOD: Dark Star

The deeply colored blood orange eclipses its citrus counterparts in these recipes from local chefs.

By Jaime Lewis

88 WINE: Mocktails

Come Into Their Own No longer just understudies to their cocktail cousins, these beverages are more about flavor than they are about a lack of alcohol.

Photograph by Gary Moss

90 DINING OUT:

Waterfront Gathering Reunion Kitchen + Drink brings modern comfort food to Santa Barbara’s East Beach.

By Nancy Ransohoff Photographs by Gary Moss

93 Where to Eat Now

P.S. Sketchpad 104 Participants in the Local

Wellness Gig Economy

By Greg Clarke

In Every Issue

18 Editor’s Note 22 Masthead 26 Behind the Scenes

Visit Us Online!

805living.com Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Spotify, Apple, Google, and YouTube keyword: 805Living Check out our website for the free digital version of 805 Living (smartphone- and tablet-compatible, it’s also on issuu.com). Tune in to our free Spotify playlists (keyword: 805 Living) and 805 Living Eats podcasts available on Apple, Google, and Spotify (keyword: 805 Living Eats).

Become an 805 Living Insider! Sign up to receive “The Insider,” our free mid-month newsletter that provides additional suggestions for local events and activities, lastminute getaway ideas, and little extras—like food and wine tips—to help you get through the month. Insiders will also receive special offers, contest news, event invitations, and more. Subscribe at 805living.com.

46: COURTESY OF VILLA DEL PALMAR AT THE ISLANDS OF LORETO BY DANZANTE BAY; 90: GARY MOSS

Pulse 33 Tracking the Beat

Luxury Living

Bespoke furnishings customized for you.

TSG Interior Design loves the creative process, collaborating with clients and coordinating

The Sofa Guy and its TSG interior design team design and build custom furniture (pictured above) and source unique pieces including lighting, rugs, and accessories to deliver the ultimate living spaces.

many of the little details one never thought existed. We believe the “sofa” is the heart of a room, and we put our heart into everything we do. Make an appointment to visit us soon.

We’ll keep the candy bowl full.

“Start with a Sofa ...end with a room”

2520 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. | Thousand Oaks | 805.497.3222 | TheSofaGuy.com

T here’s a magic here that can only be shared in celebration.

Weddings. Celebrations. Corporate Events. Visit RoblarWinery.com

Editor’s Note

Looking at the Bright Side IT’S ALWAYS SO DELIGHTFUL starting a new year in the 805, even despite the ongoing challenges of this darned pandemic. The temperatures remain mild, a little rain isn’t so bad, and there are hopes and goals for the coming months.

This special Winter issue features quite a few resources that can be used right away and clipped to save for the future. I’m thinking specifically of the mocktail story (page 88) which spotlights nonalcoholic cocktails.

Created by local mixologists, these drinks ought to be perfect for the remainder of Dry January, but don’t forget about them the rest of the year when you or your guests are in the mood for flavorful refreshment without any alcohol.

There is also a special wellness feature story (page 62) by Andrea Renskoff that is definitely a keeper for all of 2022. Renskoff interviewed two experts from UC Santa Barbara about their ideas for finding and keeping joy in your heart. These are self-care tips that focus on making the kind of resolutions you’ll not only be able to keep all year, but will likely look forward to undertaking for years to come.

Like always, our special 805 Weddings section introduces readers to some of the Central Coast’s most innovative creatives for advice on planning and pulling off supremely satisfying wedding celebrations after a long period when such gatherings virtually disappeared. It’s not just flowers and cake, they tell us. Turn to page 71 to read about what trends are sure to be a hit for lucky couples this year. And tune into our Spotify channel (keyword: 805 Living) to listen to our resident DJ Darla Bea’s wedding playlist featuring songs that’ll liven up any celebration.

The pages that follow have many other ideas to take you through February. We’ll return in March with our eighth annual Restaurant Issue.

Until then, I hope this young year is starting out just the way you want it to.

Lynne Andujar Editor in Chief & Publisher

GARY MOSS

edit@805living.com

18

WINTER 2022 / 805LIVING.COM

Winter Sale

1881 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. Thousand Oaks | 805.498.5588 | AldermanBusheInteriors.com

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Staying Together SENIOR LIVING OPTIONS FOR COUPLES

W

ith Americans living longer than ever, “in sickness and in health” can go decades beyond retirement age for many married couples. That means the majority of couples will face important decisions related to their changing and differing personal, health care and social needs as they age.

Whether a couple decides to age in place or move to a retirement community together, senior couples now have options to find the right fit for their unique needs, whether it’s aging at home or in a senior living community. aging in place

Couples may decide to stay in their own home—or age in place—as they get older.

Whether help comes from your spouse, an adult child or licensed professional, it’s important to have a plan in place as one—or both—spouse’s needs can change over time.

While enlisting a family caregiver for support has many benefits, it can also place a significant strain on them over time—mentally, physically and financially.

At-home care services may require home modifications and adaptations to ensure safety and mobility. choosing a senior living community

As a couple exploring senior living options, you may have different care needs or want a variety of amenities in a community. Before making a decision, ask about licensing to determine the highest level of care a community can provide. You may want to consider a community that offers varying care levels within the same building to avoid another move if needs change.

Learn the differences between three common types of senior living communities: Independent Living – Independent living communities can be a good choice for healthy, active seniors who do not require

assistance with activities of daily living or health care but want a low-maintenance lifestyle. Independent living communities generally provide convenient daily meals, linen services and light housekeeping services that can make lives even easier.

When exploring independent living options, ask about licensing. Learn if the community can accommodate care needs as they change, which can help prevent another future move.

Assisted Living – Assisted living communities provide services and amenities similar to independent living, but they are licensed to provide care. Residents have the opportunity to enjoy a high quality of life, with purposeful daily activities and socialization, while also receiving care from trained employees and prompt access to emergency or medical care when needed.

Assisted Living communities typically provide 24-hour support. A nurse will be able to administer injections, help with medication management, facilitate conversations with telemedicine doctors or other care providers and take doctor’s orders, reducing the number of unnecessary trips to the ER and hospital.

Memory Care – Memory care is a more comprehensive form of senior living that provides specialized support for people with cognitive issues, such as Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.

While there are stand-alone memory care facilities, many assisted living residences also offer specialized memory care programs designed to provide an engaging, safe and secure environment for residents at every phase. This may be a better option for senior couples who want to continue to live together, even though their long-term care and cognitive support needs vary.

Belmont Village’s communities are licensed to provide the highest level of care across independent living, assisted living and memory care. This unique range of care allows couples with different care needs to stay together—like always. This also means you don’t have to worry about what to do if changes happen or you need more support.

Belmont Village has served Los Angeles seniors for nearly 20 years across 8 area communities. To learn more, visit BelmontVillage.com/LosAngeles.

A LIFE WELL LIVED. A LIFE WELL EARNED. Since 1998, Belmont Village has safely delivered an unparalleled senior living experience for thousands of families. Collaborations with experts from the nation’s top healthcare institutions and universities, including UCLA and USC, have established our national leadership in demonstrably effective cognitive health and wellness programs.

Combining the highest levels of hospitality and care, our communities make life worth living.

Learn more at BelmontVillage.com/LosAngeles

Medication management with licensed nurse on-site 24/7 | Circle of Friends® award-winning memory care Dedicated Alzheimer’s care | Physical therapy, rehabilitation and fitness | Nationally-recognized, highly trained staff ©2022 Belmont Village, L.P. | RCFE 306005563, 197608468, 197608466, 197608467, 198601646, 565802433, 197608291, 197609518

Mov e be yond illumination...

EDITOR IN CHIEF, PUBLISHER, & CEO

Lynne Andujar edit@805living.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

DESIGNER

PHOTO EDITOR

Bernard Scharf

Kathy Tomlinson

Sophie Patenaude

Gary Moss

photo@805living.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Heidi Dvorak, Jennie Nunn (Shopping), Erin Rottman (Travel), Frances Ryan (Fashion, Interior Design)

Victoria Woodard Harvey, Jaime Lewis, Nancy Ransohoff, Andrea Renskoff, Joan Tapper

CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATOR

RESEARCH EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

CONSULTING EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Greg Clarke

Elizabeth Messina, Gary Moss

Tajinder Rehal Anthony Head

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Jennifer S. Vogelbach

Fashion, fine jewelry, home furnishings and design, insurance, mortgage, real estate jennifer@805living.com, 818-427-3496 ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES

Diane Dreyer

Santa Barbara County wineries diane@805living.com, 818-879-3951

Amra Neal

Architects, attorneys, automotive, beauty, dining, education, entertainment, financial/banking, fitness, food and beverage, health, home builders, landscape, nonprofit organizations, senior living, travel amra@805living.com, 310-924-2631 ALL OTHER ADVERTISING QUERIES

jennifer@805living.com, 818-427-3496 ADVERTISING DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Sophie Patenaude, sophie@805living.com OPERATIONS MANAGER

Carmen Juarez-Leiva ACCOUNTING

Lori Kantor, lori@805living.com 805 Living is published 10 times a year and is a property of 3Digit Media, LLC. 3717 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village, CA 91362 © 2022 3Digit Media, LLC. All rights reserved.

805 Living is a registered trademark. All rights reserved.

805 Living content may not be used or reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopy, without the express written permission of the publisher. 805 Living is not responsible for loss of or damage to unsolicited manuscripts, unsolicited artwork, or any other unsolicited material. Unsolicited material will not be returned. 3Digit Media, LLC, and its affiliates, contributors, writers, editors, and publisher accept no responsibility for errors or omissions with information and/or advertisements contained herein. 3Digit Media’s liability in the event of an error is limited to a printed correction. 3Digit Media does not assume liability for products or services advertised herein and assumes no responsibility for claims made by the advertisers.

8 05 .9 6 2 . 0 2 0 0 | W W W.C A B A N A HOME .C OM 1 1 1 S A N TA B A R B A R A S T R E E T

SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe to 805 Living, please visit 805living.com.

Your domestic subscription includes 10 issues of 805 Living for $25.95. If you have a question about your subscription write to Circulation Department, 805 Living , 3717 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village, CA 91362; or reach us via email at circulation@805living.com.

S A N TA B A R B A R A , C A 9 3 1 0 1 805 LIVING, WINTER 2022

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Renaissance:

KELLY SWEDA PHOTOGRAPHY

Stepping Out in Style

Clockwise from top left: Renaissance Fine Consignment owner Kendra Younger in luxury vintage stunners, Dolce & Gabbana 2000 floral brocade trench coat, Chanel quilted leather bucket bag, Dior “I Love Dior” black leather knee boots, Valentino Rockstud flap leather clutch.

Renaissance Fine Consignment has been a destination for savvy shoppers for more than twenty years. A sharp focus on highquality designer labels and vintage couture continues to set the luxury consignment shop apart at its locations in Santa Barbara and Sacramento, which this year celebrates 25 years in business. Now, the timing is better than ever for something special to brighten pandemic-weary wardrobes.

“It’s time to get dressed up and go out again!” says Kendra Younger, who owns the business with her husband, Christian. “I think women are ready to lose the sweatpants,” she says. “We’re all hungry to get dressed up and go someplace these days.” And for shoppers looking for a little help and fashion inspiration, Renaissance offers complimentary personal styling.

The store’s evolving high-end inventory offers a changing selection of everything from runway-ready evening glam looks to fabulous casual wear, all at affordable prices.

Premier designer labels include Gucci, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, Valentino, Dolce

& Gabbana, Balenciaga, and Versace. The shop is also a treasure trove of hard-to-find pieces, curated vintage couture, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and other accessories.

Fresh, current trends are reflected in soughtafter designer brands such as Vince, Theory, Joie, Equipment, Johnny Was, Alexander Wang, Alice & Olivia, and Helmut Lang.

A new addition to the store is Kealey’s Corner, named for the Youngers’ daughter and offering a handpicked selection of children’s designer pieces, as well as posh accoutrements for four-legged family members. “It’s perfect for a fun and unique gift!” says Younger.

Younger notes that Renaissance is always seeking high-quality luxury designer clothing, shoes, and accessories in pristine condition for consignment. Visit the store’s website for consignment details, and to join the email list for first views of new merchandise.

Renaissance Fine Consignment is located at 1118 State Street, Santa Barbara; 805-963-7800; renaissancesb.com.

Something’s Brewing Over Here...

AMERICAN TAVERN WESTLAKE VILLAGE | SANTA BARBARA | VENTURA SAN LUIS OBISPO | PORTER RANCH | BURBANK COMING SOON: OLD TOWNE ORANGE, CAMARILLO, AND LAGUNA BEACH

WWW.FINNEYSCRAFTHOUSE.COM Proud Supporter of Make-A-Wish Tri-Counties

Behind the Scenes It’s time to make good on those selfimprovement resolutions. Here’s what our featured contributors are doing locally to achieve their goals.

Joan Tapper “When the pandemic began, and things were slow, I started playing piano again after many years,” says contributing writer Joan Tapper (Arts & Culture, page 52). “Now I have less time on my hands, but I’m promising myself to keep on playing. Playing Bach—even badly—gives me great pleasure and a sense of calm.”

Andrea Renskoff

“I want to walk on dirt more this year. There’s something so peaceful about that softness underfoot,” says contributing writer Andrea Renskoff (“A Checklist for Finding Joy,” page 62). “Plus, with our beautiful climate, the activity likely coincides with breathing in fresh air and feeling sunshine on my face.”

“I’ll be focusing on my health and overall well-being by eating organic, locally grown food,” says contributing photographer Elizabeth Messina (“Treasured Moments,” page 76). “I love to walk on the beach and feel the sun and salty air. I also make art whenever possible to keep my heart happy.

MESSINA: CORAL VON ZUMWALT

Elizabeth Messina

New Year.

New Look.

16,000 sq. ft. historic 2- story showroom. 75+ manufacturers.

Behind the Scenes Our featured experts share their plans to improve their well-being this year in the 805.

“I removed email from my phone to ensure that the time I spend away from work is truly restful.

It’s not healthy to always be on-call and available.”

—Tyler Speier

(“Making Memories,” page 71) owner, creative director Tyler Speier Events Santa Barbara tylerspeier.com

“I plan to try as many local fitness and wellness classes in our area as possible.”

—Brittany Tompkins

Where to begin? This was such a great experience!

Gabriele A. • YELP Unique one-of-a-kind furniture and made so well.

Carri N. • Camarillo

(Pulse, page 33) founder, designer MP James Westlake Village mpjames.com

5 Stars! Beautiful Store. Quality Furniture.

Steve Thomas • Google Review This store is a true local treasure.

Shannon M. • YELP

#1 Home Furnishings Reporter Readers Pole 2021

Since 1976

“It makes me feel good to support the mom-and-pop shops of our community, especially the farmers markets.”

—Debby Poe

For Your Home

California Style Furnishing Mission • Arts & Crafts • Mid-Century Modern • Amish-crafted California Casual • Rustic • Shaker • Eclectic • 50s • Lamps • Rugs • Art 805

628-4971• 443 East Main Street • Downtown Ventura Take a tour online - fyhfurn.com Open 7 days • We deliver throughout California

“Take beach walks, find secret paths on nature trails, eat pomegranates, offer a helping hand.”

—Maryam Kia-Keating, PhD

(“A Checklist for Finding Joy,” page 62) psychologist, author, professor Power of Drishti Santa Barbara powerofdrishti.com

SPEIER: JAMES AND JESS; TOMPKINS: MICHAEL ROACH; POE: ALEX BEATTIE

(Taste/Food, page 84) private chef, caterer Thousand Oaks chefdebby.com

A DV E R T I S E M E N T

Once Upon a Time...

…there was a place called Country Meadow Ranch.

From the moment you see the imposing entrance gates of Country Meadow Ranch, you know you are about to encounter one of life’s very special experiences. That startling recognition unfolds as you drive the circular road into this amazing property, studded with white ranch rail fencing through which one views a never-ending vista of distant mountains and tree-studded grassland.

Your special experience has only just begun. Country Meadow Ranch is a storybook setting that has to be seen to be believed.

Welcome to this idyllic luxury venue, perfect for unique outdoor celebrations, now available for private events, ceremonies, and receptions. It’s the picture-perfect backdrop for a bride’s dream wedding day, a fairy-tale setting of lush green pastures and intimate spaces, ideal to share a beautiful ceremony and a memorable outdoor reception with those who matter most.

Watch as your guests take their seats for the wedding ceremony, their sense of anticipation heightened when the wedding party arrives. With soft, welcoming music playing, the ceremony begins. The spoken word made even more heartfelt when set in this natural, scenic beauty.

Now it’s time for your guests to mingle for pre-dinner drinks

and hors d ̓oeuvres under a canopy of lantern-lit trees near the magic wishing well, and tour the magnificent grounds and take pictures to remember this magical day.

After dinner, speeches, and toasts, enjoy dancing with loved ones on the terrace under the twinkling lights, and make once-in-a-lifetime, special memories in this enchanting venue.

When renowned interior designer, Gail Claridge, and her husband Joe, who sadly passed last year, acquired the Country Meadow Ranch 25 years ago, their vision was to establish a forever family home for themselves and their children. Now, for the first time, Gail is making the ranch available as a oneof-a-kind destination for visitors to experience breathtaking views of rolling hills and soak up the serenity of the ranch.

Gail and her family welcome you to this private and secure 45-acre retreat secluded in the quaint city of Somis, only a short distance from Los Angeles in the county of Ventura.

Start planning your dream celebration with us today.

Country Meadow Ranch 6183 Old Balcom Canyon Road, Somis, CA 93066 (805) 358-3308 • countrymeadowranch.com @countrymeadowranch

WEDDING NATURE

A DV E R T I S E M E N T

Share a private ceremony with those you love in more than 45‑acres of tree‑studded grassland. Carefully manicured lawns boasting hundreds of tall trees and unique structures including a wedding chapel, barn house, wishing well, and so much more. A breathtaking backdrop for picture taking both before and after sunset.

Inspired by the

You have a vision for your project. How it looks, how it feels and most importantly, how it reflects your style.

At Windsor Windows & Doors, we’re passionate about your vision and it’s our mission to produce high-quality windows and doors that exceed your expectations. Countless style options, expert craftsmanship and high-performance technology.

Call us today or visit us at the Agoura Sash & Door Design Center to learn more about Windsor Windows & Doors.

Visit ImagineWithWindsor.com to see performance information, hardware and glass options, and download our product guide.

AGOURA SASH & DOOR, INC. 2301 Townsgate Road | Westlake Village, CA (805) 449-2840 | agourasash.com

D O ORS • WIN D OWS • H A R DWA R E • D ES IG N CE NTER

Pulse

T R AC K I N G T H E B E AT O F T H E 8 0 5

Artfully transformed shipping containers house The Yard, a dining and shopping complex that opened recently in Ventura.

COURTESY OF THE YARD

VENTURA’S NEWEST RETAIL HUB

The enormous crane hoisting a trio of 20,000-pound steel shipping containers onto a foundation in the heart of Ventura was not a misdirect from the nearby harbor but a key stage in the six-year making of The Yard (Instagram @theyardventura), a new food and retail destination. “Our mission is to create destination environments conducive to hanging out,” says co-owner, developer, and artist Jeremy Ireland. “We see this as a vital infusion in a great community with a special history.”

Ireland’s talented team includes renowned artist RiskRock, whose colorful butterflies and other paintings adorn the complex; muralist Lisa Kelly, who created lettering for signage; and Nick Tomasello of Nu-Line Partners, Inc., a local resident whose crew managed the restoration of a 1918 brick building, installation of reclaimed barn wood from Arkansas, and the construction of the outdoor patio area featuring native and succulent plants around a towering cork oak tree festooned with hanging lights and chandeliers.

“We’ve always been a destination store, a cool little hangout spot to build community,” says Thom Hill, a key > WINTER 2022 / 805LIVING.COM

33

Pulse Found in The Yard (from left): Iron & Resin fashions; Humblemaker Coffees spiked with health-promoting elements; and Stout burgers and brews.

player in this project and founder of Iron & Resin (ironandresin.com), an apparel and lifestyle brand that has a retail outlet in the complex. The Yard’s revamped site suits his vision for maker’s markets, live music, outdoor surf films, and book releases reflecting Iron & Resin’s reverence for coastal swells, ranges, and the open roads of old California.

All day caffeine boosts, plus freshly baked pie, are available at Humblemaker Coffee Co. (humblemaker.coffee), a wellness-focused craft coffee roaster with award-winning beverages like the Ojai Valley Immune System shot, cold-brewed with citrus peel and nutmeg, vitamins C and D3, zinc, and echinacea. “We love the Ventura vibe, and I’m giddy about being open here for the Saturday farmer’s market,” says cofounder Chris Smith.

The pub-style Stout Burgers & Beers (stoutburgersandbeers.com) opens its fifth location in the new complex, dishing out imaginative flavors in a bun, such as the signature burger, featuring blue cheese, Gruyère, rosemary bacon, caramelized onions, roasted tomatoes, and horseradish cream, as well as no less than 40 craft beers on tap.

A custom-built, floor-to-ceiling copper tap wall commands attention in the eatery’s spacious dining room, which opens outdoors onto pedestrian-only Main Street. In addition, the rustic and elegant Stout Bourbon Room makes its global debut, offering late-night imbibing of creative cocktails and premium spirits.

More vendors are expected to open in the months ahead.

—Victoria Woodard Harvey

Driven to design her own furniture by COVID-era sourcing problems and shipping delays, interior designer Brittany Tompkins has launched her first line and opened her first showroom, MP James (mpjames.com), in Westlake Village. Natural tones and light colors appeal to the Ventura County native, who produces her pieces in California. “I love connecting with other people who speak my language,” she says. “I love the brainstorming, the creativity, the problem solving.”

The showroom includes a retail collection of housewares including woven baskets, textured throw pillows, soaps shaped like gemstones, and bath balms from Santa Ynez. “I try to find small vendors who have stories, like I do,” says Tompkins, who adds that 80 percent of her wholesalers are independently owned and many of those proprietors are women. Next up, she has plans to release an upholstery line this summer.

—Erin Rottman Brittany Tompkins (right) is the designer of furnishings on display at the MP James showroom in Westlake Village, including pieces with names that may sound familiar to 805 locals, such as (far right) The Sherwood bench and The Triunfo bookcase.

34

WINTER 2022 / 805LIVING.COM

TOP, CENTER: CHRIS PIETA; BOTTOM, LEFT AND RIGHT: MICHAEL ROACH

FURNISHED VIA INSOURCING

PTS FURNITURE HOM E A N D OF F IC E SHOW RO OM 250 Conejo Ridge Ave. Thousand Oaks, CA 91361 805-496-4804 Mon–Sat: 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun 12–4 p.m. | ptsfurniture.com

PTS FURNITURE HOM E A N D OF F IC E SHOW RO OM

250 Conejo Ridge Ave., Thousand Oaks, CA 91361 805-496-4804 Mon–Sat., 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sunday, 12 p.m.–4 p.m. | ptsfurniture.com

Pulse

MIXING MELODIES, LIGHT SHOWS, AND LIBATIONS

A creative hub that’s part music recording studio, part light installation, and part bar opened recently in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone. Owner Jeremy Wilson (right), a marketing and entertainment consultant and recent transplant from New York City, describes Studio (Instagram @studiosoundroom) as “an experimental bar and production space for the creatively curious.”

A vibrant ever-changing light-tube installation illuminates the bar (lower right), which spotlights organic wines from around the world, along with wine, beer, and seltzer from local and international producers, Champagne, sake, and aperitif-based cocktails. HiFi happy hour combines music, host MCs, and celebratory drinks.

As for the tunes: “We’ll be taking a community approach to music and content production,” says Wilson, “building out a recording setup that can capture the best from local talent and allow for collaborative projects.”

—Nancy Ransohoff

What’s the big difference between wine and dealcoholized wine, other than the obvious? Not too much. Jonathan Nagy (right), director of winemaking for Miller Family Wine Company in Santa Maria, says that his label Hand on Heart (handonheartwine.com) only features wines with less than 0.5 percent alcohol by volume, yet, “they go through the exact same winemaking steps as our other products, including fermenting and aging with oak.”

Once the alcohol is removed, Nagy enhances the remaining juice with natural and organic flavors to create fine, food-friendly, and affordable wines (cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, and rosé) with refreshing brightness.

Food Network Iron Chef Cat Cora, owner of Mesa Burger restaurants, collaborated with the Miller Family in the development of the wines for this new label.

—Anthony Head

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FRESH LOOKS AT THE LANDSCAPE

Laddie John Dill, Kim Abeles, and Charles Arnoldi are some of the artists whose work is featured in Landscape Through the Eyes of Abstraction, a new group exhibition at the California Museum of Art Thousand Oaks

(CMATO; cmato.org) February 18 through July 31. Complemented with discussion events, the exhibit focuses on works that are either inspired by the landscape or reflective of current environmental issues, like water conservation, deforestation, fire prevention, and urban development.

“It’s not to make us sad,” says senior curator Lynn Farrand, “but to make us think about it, to remind us. It’s asking questions and provoking discussion.”

Buster by Charles Arnoldi Farrand purposefully selected paintings, installa-tions, light displays, mixed media pieces, and wall sculptures to emphasize the diversity of mediums that speak to environmental issues. “It’s a real feast for your eyes,” she says. “It’s just fascinating to see what people create when they’re passionate about their natural world.” —E.R.

WILSON: ALEX LIM; BAR: JEREMY WILSON; BOTTLES: KABOO KABOO; NAGY: MACDUFF EVERTON

WINES FOR DRY JANUARY— AND BEYOND

A DV ER T I S EMEN T

Proactive in the New Year

Westlake Village elite training facility expands and combines training, nutrition, and recovery under one roof while maintaining a small-town feel.

TRAIN AND FUEL LIKE THE PROS While Proactive is recognized for training top names across the NFL, NBA, WNBA, and MLB, it also provides adult fitness training. Its philosophy maintains that everyone is considered an athlete and its mission is to provide every client an experience that supports achievement of their individual performance goals; whether they aspire to achieve new fitness goals, work through an injury, or simply maintain their health and longevity.

LOCALLY FOCUSED It has always been a priority to remain active in the community. Most of its training team and staff are local to the area, including Directors Evan Pineda and Josh Tuerpe.

With new doors opened, 10 additional jobs were created to help facilitate the operation of the new building, which was brought to fruition by many local vendors, including Garrett Rice of RCI Builders.

“Proactive has always been a part of the community and we plan to use this new space and platform to continue to give back to, connect with, and help strengthen the community that has given us so much,” says Emily Capretta, Managing Director of Proactive Sports Performance.

Proactive Fueled by Herbalife Nutrition is located at 31425 Agoura Road in Westlake Village. For more information or to schedule a private appointment, call 818-597-6201 or visit proactivesp.com.

Clockwise from top: The basketball court at the multimillion-dollar Proactive Fueled by Herbalife Nutrition training facility in Westlake Village, which caters to professional and amateur athletes with physical conditioning, sports rehabilitation, and personalized nutrition management. The Pro Lounge, designed by Holly Viane Interiors of Oak Park, overlooks the basketball court. The weight room features a Speed Lab with a 15-percent incline hill and inground force-plate technology for recording movements to the millisecond.

PHOTOS: WELDON BREWSTER PHOTOGRAPHY

Proactive Sports Performance has been servicing professional and youth, high school, and collegiate athletes in the Conejo Valley for more than 15 years.

Founded by Westlake Village native, Ryan Capretta, Proactive recently expanded to a brand-new dream facility which opened nearby in July of 2021.

Along with long-time sports nutrition partner, Herbalife Nutrition, Proactive’s dreams manifested into the rebranded Proactive Fueled by Herbalife Nutrition.

“Our new 17,000 square foot multi-sport training center provides a high-tech, personalized experience,” says Capretta.

“Clients enjoy access to strength and conditioning, physical therapy, an altitude training chamber, infrared heated yoga room, Herbalife24 Sports Performance Testing Lab, and an on-site kitchen with access to a registered dietician,” he adds.

Hats available at Dylan Star 317 Paseo Nuevo

EXPLORE THE NEW PASEO NUEVO

and our collection of local, regional and national retailers and restaurants Open 11am to 7pm Daily PaseoNuevoShopping.com

@ShopPaseoNuevo

651 Paseo Nuevo, Santa Barbara CA 93101

A DV E R T I S E M E N T

Reduce Retirement Income Risk with a Reverse Mortgage A REVERSE MORTGAGE IS NOT ONLY A WAY TO PRESERVE YOUR WEALTH, BUT ALSO A WAY TO GROW IT. It’s the New Year, flush with new goals, new dreams, new options! What has broadened the appeal of reverse mortgages is the wider availability of reverse mortgage products as a component of a holistic retirement plan. In the past, financial planners advised you should take distributions from your portfolio first. Home equity was only a backup strategy.

But, according to a recent article by the Journal of Financial Planning published this past December, an essential aspect of the inclusion of home equity in the portfolio is a withdrawal strategy that, in a disciplined way, uses that asset.* If you are worried about your cash flow exhaustion or the probability of a required significant reduction in lifestyle or spending level, you should consider a reverse mortgage. By using your home equity as a segment of your portfolio, your rate of return can increase above the traditional four percent and still retain an acceptably low risk of cash flow exhaustion.

Moreover, if home equity is included in your portfolio, it can serve as the source from which to distribute income while skipping distributions from your volatile securities. Accordingly, when the income source is the home equity portion of the portfolio, i.e., the reverse mortgage credit line, which is not taxable, less income is needed.

PHOTO CREDIT: PAUL BRADBURY

PCL Financial Group is a full-service lender offering expertise in every area of mortgage lending. While I am the VP of Client Relations, I also specialize in reverse mortgages, a topic that I am passionate about. Since 2008, the industry has been highly regulated, and we follow strict state and federal guidelines and regulations that are in place to protect the borrower.

Have your financial planner reach out to me and I can discuss with him/ her how to include a reverse mortgage as part of a diversification of your investments. We offer loans up to $4 million and low-cost closing costs.

Factors that help determine how much you qualify for: • Age of the youngest borrower • Market value of the home

*To Reduce the Risk of Retirement Portfolio Exhaustion, Include Home Equity as a NonCorrelated Asset in the Portfolio Philip Walker; Barry H. Sacks, PH.D., J.D.; and Stephen R. Sacks, PH.D. Journal of Financial Planning December 2021

• Existing mortgage balance • Distribution type and interest rates

CALL TODAY 818-865-0600 www.pclfinancialgroup.com reversemortgage@pclfg.com

Pattye Zeto NMLS # 944574 PCL Financial Group

Copyright © 2021 | PCL Financial Group is a division of Celebrity Home Loans, LLC | NMLS # 227765 Equal Housing Lender For licensing information, go to: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org | www.celebrityhomeloans.com

Member of the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association (NRMLA).

Finds S H O P P I N G / S T Y L E / T R AV EL

Modern Times MAKE A STRIKING STATEMENT WITH AN UP-TO-THE-MINUTE WALL CLOCK.

By Jennie Nunn

A sleek, new take on the cuckoo chimes with authentic birdsongs and comes with different colored parts to match it to the surrounding decor. Turn the page for more details.

WINTER 2022 / 805LIVING.COM

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1. Threshold 20-inch in wood and brass with plastic frame ($30); Target: Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Moorpark, Camarillo, Oxnard, Ventura, Santa Maria, San Luis Obispo, and Paso Robles; target.com. 2. Modern 11-inch-high cuckoo clock in matte white wood with four colored birds, four pendulum discs, and 12 birdsong chimes for customization ($125); letterfolk.com. 3. Classic creator’s edition “Metamorphite” 18-inch in slate ($2,580); qlocktwo.com.

4. “Boho Sunburst” 20-inch in iron with silver, gold, and black finishes ($70); Cost Plus World Market: Westlake Village, Oxnard, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo; worldmarket.com. 5. George Nelson for Vitra “Wheel” 18-inch in walnut and aluminum ($620); Design Within Reach, dwr.com. 6. River Parks Studio “Parker” 35¾-inch in black metal with gold numbers ($130); Lamps Plus, Ventura, lampsplus.com. 7. Shinola “Runwell” 14-inch in chrome and navy blue ($495); Crate and Barrel at The Village at Topanga, Woodland Hills, crateandbarrel.com. 8. “La Rochelle” 24-inch in metal with gold finish ($229); Pottery Barn: Thousand Oaks, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo; potterybarn.com. 9. Crestview Collection “Right Time” 30-inch in black metal ($120); For Your Home, Ventura, fyhfurn.com. 

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For more, visit our Pinterest page, keyword: 805living.

Finds Style

By Frances Ryan

Fashionably Fit DRESS IN WHAT MOVES YOU.

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1. Velvet “Raylin” quilted puffer jacket ($367); Neiman Marcus, Westfield Topanga in Canoga Park, neimanmarcus.com. 2. Sony “WF-1000XM4” noise-canceling wireless earbuds ($280); Best Buy: Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Oxnard, Goleta, Santa Maria, and San Luis Obispo, bestbuy.com. 3. Wahoo Fitness “Elemnt Rival” multisport GPS smartwatch in stealth gray ($330); REI: Oxnard, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Westfield Topanga in Canoga Park; rei.com. 4. Ray-Ban “Bill” polarized sunglasses ($211); Sunglass Hut, Paseo Nuevo in Santa Barbara, sunglasshut.com. 5. Sweaty Betty “Zero Gravity Pocket” 7⁄ 8 -length workout leggings in olive leopard print ($135); Nordstrom, Thousand Oaks and Westfield Topanga in Canoga Park; nordstrom.com. 6. “Brodeo” cuffed beanie in industrial green ($39); Patagonia, Ventura, patagonia.com. 7. “Switchback” sports bra in narwhal grey ($49); Patagonia, Ventura, patagonia.com. 8. On “Cloud X” running and mixed-sport workout shoe in black/pearl ($140); Feature, The Commons at Calabasas, feature.com. 9. Hooded top with 1/4-zip ($46); Zara, Thousand Oaks and Westfield Topanga in Canoga Park, zara.com. 

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For more, visit our Pinterest page, keyword: 805living.

8: COURTESY OF ON

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Wine Country Living Great Santaheadine Ynez Style

copy can go here.

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Patty Murphy country estates

Patty Murphy Country Estates & Vineyards www.pattymurphy.com patty@pattymurphy.com (805) 680-8571

Photography by tplochproductions.com © 2022 Sotheby’s International Realty. All Rights Reserved. The Sotheby’s International Realty trademark is licensed and used with permission. Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated, except those operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. The Sotheby’s International Realty network fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. All offerings are subject to errors, omissions, changes including price or withdrawal without notice. Patty Murphy DRE: 766586

Finds Travel

By Erin Rottman

SENSEI LĀNA’I TEES UP SPORTS RETREATS

Located on the smallest Hawaiian island that’s open to the public, Sensei Lāna’i, a Four Seasons Resort has created two sports performance retreats for experienced golf and tennis players to improve their overall health and game (fourseasons. com/sensei, from $1,555 per night for tennis and from $1,640 per night for golf, five-night minimum). Included are sessions with exercise physiologists, nutritionists, and mindfulness coaches; fitness data collected through a wrist strap; and golf and tennis instruction with video analysis.

“When we give guests health data, they often make the next best decision,” says Kelly Georgiou, who develops wellness programs for Sensei. “They will change their behavior moving forward.” The resort staff works with guests before their arrival to assess their goals, complete a wellness questionnaire, and create an itinerary. When guests arrive, health professionals measure their blood pressure, body composition, functional movement, VO2 max, and more to create a report for the golf or tennis instructor. The instructor then assesses each guest’s performance and combines health data and performance data to inform the instruction.

The packages include luxurious accommodations and spa treatments, and Georgiou recommends adding days for other recreational activities, such as exploring the island and enjoying some beach time. “You just see people exhaling the moment they walk in,” she says.

Guests up their game the Hawaiian way during new sports performance retreats at Sensei Lāna’i, a Four Seasons Resort.

Spacious guest rooms overlook the surrounding mountains at Montage Big Sky in Montana.

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Montage Hotels & Resorts’ new Montana property, Montage Big Sky (montagehotels.com/bigsky, from $1,395), is 56 miles from Yellowstone National Park and has ski-in, ski-out access to Big Sky Resort. But whatever the active part of the day entails, the spa serves as the sanctuary.

“Spa Montage Big Sky takes inspiration from the surrounding Spanish Peaks Mountain Range in its architecture, design, and signature treatments,” says spa director Joan Kangas. Among the therapies offered are a high-altitude acclimation massage and a CBD mountain ritual, consisting of a tea service, full-body massage with organic hemp oil, and a hydrating scalp and foot treatment. Amenities include a fitness center, complete with Peloton and TRX equipment, personal training, and studio classes, as well as Kangas’ favorite relaxation spot: the serene indoor pool, which is accented by a wall of basalt.

TOP GROUPING: ROBB AARON GORDON; BOTTOM GROUPING: COURTESY OF MONTAGE BIG SKY

PAMPERED IN BIG SKY

“I’ve poured six generations of winemaking into this glass.”

Sixty-two months of work. 118 cases. One single-minded obsession.

“I

learned winemaking in France from my father, who learned from his father. At an early age, I understood that creating a great wine is a question of balance…that unique equation which enables an ideal blend of climate, soil and the grape itself.

It began with the Mizel Estate grape. I saw the potential, the way they were, in 2016. But it was a three-year journey to make the fruit perform at its best. Many vines, many grafts, so many lost hours of sleep.

And then there’s the weather in this unusual Malibu Coast appellation–warm and bright, yet influenced by coastal fog and wind. Every day here is a new adventure.

But the real secret to Mizel First Impression Bordeaux Blend is the ground it comes from–a heavy clay earth that retains water. Which is good. But clay like this expands to choke the roots of the vine. So, we turn the ground, smell it, like farmers. To free the roots and let them grow deep. The soil brings the tannin structure and creates a certain elegance that is so difficult to find–and impossible to add.

There is a beautiful density to this red wine. Fruity.

Powerful, yes. But somehow subtle as well. A wine to be savored. But above all, a wine to be enjoyed.

The spirit of Malibu, if you will, in a glass.”

Guillaume Fabre, Winemaker/Vigneron

Mizel Wines

805.273.1265

mizelestate.com/805mag

WARNING: Drinking distilled spirits, beer, coolers, wine and other alcoholic beverages may increase cancer risk, and, during pregnancy, can cause birth defects. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/alcohol. You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase.

Luxurious accommodations at Milliken Creek Inn overlook its serene acreage on the banks of the Napa River.

Finds Travel

MEXICO’S TRANQUIL SIDE

Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto by Danzante Bay

PERSONAL ATTENTION ON THE SILVERADO TRAIL

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Visitors staying at Villa del Palmar take a sea-kayaking excursion to Isla del Carmen, one of the islands in Baja California’s Loreto Bay National Marine Park.

SMALL AND SMART IN SAN FRANCISCO

For travelers who spend their time exploring their destination and retreat to their accommodations only to sleep and shower, an expensive hotel may seem like a waste. With its small rooms at reasonable prices, San Francisco’s Hotel Stratford (hotelstratford.com, from $150) is an ideal alternative.

The independent hotel, which is adjacent to Union Square and on the Powell Street Cable Car line, just completed a multimillion-dollar renovation of its 95 rooms. Nightstands double as desks, closets have been replaced with an open-wall system featuring pegs for hanging and a bench for stacking, and custom-designed furniture is wall-mounted to save space. A special opening offer includes a $25 food-andbeverage credit at Bartlett Hall, the gastropub one block away.

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verything is geared toward intimacy at Napa’s newly renovated Milliken Creek Inn (millikencreekinn.com, from $385): its Brookwood rooms with oversize soaking tubs, views of the Napa River, private decks with firepits, and turndown service with dimmed lights and jazz.

Originally a stagecoach stop in the 1850s, the independently owned luxury inn sits on the Silverado Trail, providing a central location for wine tasting.

Rooms have been redone in tranquil creams and rich browns, and upgraded amenities include Nespresso coffee, L’Occitane bath products, Apple TV, and iPads. Hoping to extend the intimate experience, the concierges help guests book VIP wine tastings and hard-to-get reservations at restaurants like The French Laundry. “Everyone receives personalized concierge service that’s unique to the property, because we only have 11 guest rooms,” says Tamara Mims, president and CEO of the inn’s parent company, Four Sisters Inns.

Through March 3, the inn is offering The Perfect Getaway package, which includes 30 percent off the regular room rate, breakfast for two delivered to the room, and daily wine and cheese. 

Please check CDC and local guidelines before traveling.

Smart design features maximize space for a more economical stay at San Francisco’s Hotel Stratford.

FROM TOP: COURTESY OF MILLKEN CREEK INN; COURTESY OF VILLA DEL PALMAR AT THE ISLANDS OF LORETO BY DANZANTE BAY; COURTESY OF HOTEL STRATFORD

(villadelpalmarloreto.com, from $244 room-only or $354 all-inclusive) has just added oceanfront accommodations and penthouses to its all-suite resort on the eastern coast of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula. “We are the only resort in the entire bay,” says general manager Eduardo Rojas, who loves to remark on the dolphins and turtles in the turquoise blue water. “We are far away from the boom boom of the big cities. Our clientele is looking for sightseeing, nature, and water sports.”

Set on the shores of the Loreto Bay National Marine Park, a UNESCO Heritage site that is home to nearly 900 species of fish and 700 plant species, according to the nonprofit Ocean Foundation, the resort encompasses five pools, a spa, and an 18-hole golf course overlooking the Sea of Cortez.

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S P O T L I G H T

THE FACE OF ONE OF THE TOP WOMEN WEALTH ADVISERS IN THE COUNTRY

LAURA MARIE RAULINAITIS, CFP® THE LAKE AVENUE GROUP AT MORGAN STANLEY SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT FINANCIAL ADVISOR Morgan Stanley congratulates Laura M. Raulinaitis for 25 years of service.

Laura Marie who has been with Morgan Stanley since January 6, 1997 is a native of Presque Isle, Maine.

Laura Marie currently lives in Westlake Village with her husband Darius and three dogs, Cooper, Honey and Charlie.

Morgan Stanley, a global leader, provides access to a wide range of products and services to individuals, businesses and institutions, including brokerage and investment advisory services, financial and wealth planning, cash management and lending solutions, annuities and insurance, retirement and trust services.

WHAT I HAVE LEARNED DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: I may not be considered a natural blonde anymore. I can cut hair, both my husband’s and our dog’s. I clean my own house. I can run a productive business in yoga pants. I can Zoom with clients. I cannot do my own nails. I cannot cook. It is truly amazing what you learn about yourself when you have time to watch!

100 N. Westlake Blvd, Suite 200 Westlake Village, CA 91362 (805) 494-0246 | (800) 654-5954 https://advisor.morganstanley.com/the-lake-avenue-group lauramarie.raulinaitis@morganstanley.com Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please visit us at http://www.morganstanleyindividual.com or consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC offers insurance products in conjunction with its licensed insurance agency affiliates.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters.

The investments listed may not be appropriate for all investors. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a financial advisor. The appropriateness of a particular investment will depend upon an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not accept appointments nor will it act as a trustee but it will provide access to trust services through an appropriate third-party corporate trustee.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is a registered Broker/Dealer, Member SIPC, and not a bank. Where appropriate, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC has entered into arrangements with banks and other third parties to assist in offering certain banking related products and services.

Investment, insurance and annuity products offered through Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC are: NOT FDIC INSURED | MAY LOSE VALUE | NOT BANK GUARANTEED | NOT A BANK DEPOSIT | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 4020931 12/21

Insider EVENTS IN & AROUND THE 805

By Heidi Dvorak

February 5

February 18­–20

MONARCH BUTTERFLY GROVE

NUN RUN

GEM FAIRE

Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove.

It’s time to indulge in one of nature’s spectacular sights as thousands of monarch butterflies can be found clustering within towering eucalyptus and Monterey cypress trees.

Recordings narrated by state park interpreters are available; parks.ca.gov.

La Reina High School and Middle School, Thousand Oaks, and virtual. Get in the habit of supporting the Sisters of Notre Dame Life & Ministry Fund, by participating in the 5K, 1 mile, or virtual races.

The organization provides educational and social outreach around the world; nun.run.

Earl Warren Showgrounds, Santa Barbara. Unearth a bounty of shiny, sparkly, and glittery treasures at this diverse showcase of precious and semiprecious gemstones, crystals, and beads, then patronize the craft vendors for sizing, repairs, jewelry cleaning, and stocking up on tools and supplies; gemfaire.com.

February 5 SOUND THE TRUMPET

February 4–March 6 THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES

San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre. Get a good dose of nostalgia at this musical tribute to the 1950s and 1960s, as four young women meet up at their high school reunion and reexamine their past, singing more than 30 oldies but goodies; slorep.org.

Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo. Join the San Luis Obispo Symphony during its 60th anniversary season with trumpet soloist Andrew Balio, chamber groups composed of symphony musicians, and a full symphony orchestra.

The program includes Richard Strauss’ Serenade in E Flat, and Henri Tomasi’s Concerto for Trumpet in C; slosymphony.org.

February 5 LIVE AT THE MAHA: SAM NELSON HARRIS OF X AMBASSADORS

Ventura Marathon

2 /26–27

Here’s an Idea: Kids birthdays and special celebrations can be an outdoor, active affair.

A FAERY HUNT performs monthly in Sherwood Forest (otherwise known as Corrigan Park) in Simi Valley. The guided, interactive experience takes attendees on an adventure through Sherwood Forest, where they will meet fairies and inventive creatures; afaeryhunt.com.

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Villa Creek Cellars at the Maha Estate, Paso Robles.

Enjoy a wine reception and gourmet lunch with Clark Staub, owner of Full of Life Flatbread. Featured is an intimate acoustic performance by Grammynominated songwriter Sam Nelson Harris, the lead singer for the X Ambassadors.

The event benefits Must!

Charities; villacreek.com.

February 22 CHICAGO

Bank of America Performing Arts Center Thousand Oaks.

Fifty-five years and 37 albums later, this legendary pop group is still making primo music. This concert should be like a nostalgic Saturday in the park; bapacthousandoaks.com.

February 26–27 VENTURA MARATHON

February 5–23 EMERGENCE

Studio Channel Islands, Camarillo. Support the efforts of budding artists at this exhibit showcasing works by juniors and seniors from Ventura County universities, all of whom are recipients of the Roxie Ray Endowment for emerging artists; studiochannelislands.org.

February 15 JUDY COLLINS

Lobero Theatre, Santa Barbara. The accomplished singer-songwriter and social activist performs traditional and contemporary folk standards along with her own compositions. She is credited with a whopping 58 albums and a Grammy Award; lobero.org.

Mission Park. If 26.2 miles sounds a bit daunting, opt for a half marathon, a 5K, or even virtual participation. The fun doesn’t stop there: On site is a health expo and brew fest featuring food and vendors; venturamarathon.com.

February 26­­–­27 MUSIC TO MY EARS: THE SCIENCE OF SOUND

Bank of America Performing Arts Center Thousand Oaks and Rancho Campana Performing Arts Center, Camarillo. A two-part concert presentation features a physics expert who demonstrates how sound is created and evokes an emotional response; the second showcases works and instruments that employ distance and sound combinations; newwestsymphony.org. 

FROM TOP: COURTESY OF HIGHWAY 1 DISCOVERY ROUTE; COURTESY OF VENTURA MARATHON

Through 2/28

Through February 28

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Arts & Culture

By Joan Tapper

Starry, Starry Exhibition

THE SANTA BARBARA MUSEUM OF ART BRINGS VINCENT VAN GOGH AND FRIENDS TO THE CENTRAL COAST.

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Les Vessenots en Auvers, painted in 1890, depicts the landscape where Van Gogh spent the last weeks of his life and shows the bright palette and vivid brushstrokes that distinguish the artist’s later works.

imply mentioning his name conjures up well-known images. Millions of people have stood before The Starry Night at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, marveled at his Irises at the Getty in Los Angeles, and perhaps picked up a tote bag or refrigerator magnet with his self-portrait on it. I even have a mouse pad that shows The Bedroom in the Yellow House in Arles. Mythologized in books, movies, and popular culture and now drawing crowds to a multimedia immersive experience, Vincent van Gogh may just be the most popular artist in the world. Everyone knows all about him— or do they?

Beginning on February 27, visitors to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA; sbma.net) will

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have an opportunity to rethink the conventional narrative when Through Vincent’s Eyes: Van Gogh and His Sources opens there. With 20 of his works and another 75 by those he admired, the exhibit deemphasizes biography and instead shows us the artist in the context of his times—as a social realist, a voracious reader of 19th-century novels, an admirer of painters we may overlook today, a collector of prints, and a much more nuanced figure than the tormented one often depicted.

Showcased in the museum’s $50 million renovation and recent reinstallation, the exhibition fulfills a longtime desire by Larry Feinberg, SBMA’s Robert and Mercedes Eichholz director. “Having spent many years working at the Art Institute of Chicago, where I marveled at the Van Goghs in that >

Arts & Culture

Among the 20 works by Van Gogh in the SBMA exhibit are The Outskirts of Paris, from 1886, which shows the artist’s interest in social issues, and Tarascon Stagecoach, painted in 1888, which relates to images he knew from novels of the day.

collection,” he says, “I was determined to bring a number of his paintings to the Santa Barbara community. Also, we wanted to address some of the common misconceptions about the man and his art, as both are much more sophisticated and complex than they are usually portrayed.”

Deputy director Eik Kahng, who curated the show through a partnership with a private collector, had a starting point in a long-term loan to SBMA of The Outskirts of Paris, from 1886, which shows a downtrodden figure in a sketchy area of a city that is clearly being beset by industrialization, urban living, and poverty. “It’s a significant image of Van Gogh’s attraction to the fringes of society,” says Kahng.

“It’s an important but transitional work. It still has a Dutch quality, with earthen tones, but there’s a brightness in the sky.”

From there, she turned to pieces by Van Gogh’s own artist heroes, like Jean-François Raffaelli, an earlier realist, and Adolphe Monticelli, whose palette and thick brushwork also influenced the Dutch painter. Still, Kahng points, out, “there’s an element in Van Gogh’s work that’s mysterious, a luminosity, viscosity, and a sensuous line that is his trademark.” And it culminates, of course, in the stunning paintings of his last two years.

To tell this story in an innovative way, Kahng eventually brought together works from some 40 lenders in the United States and abroad, public institutions as well as private collectors. ”Everyone wants these pictures,” she says, “so there was a lot of pleading.” But how that has paid off!

In addition to the score of Van Goghs, there are works that relate to Van Gogh’s keen interest in Japanese woodblock prints and the graphic images that were reproduced in the illustrated popular press and novels like those of Balzac and Dickens, which the artist knew well. There are pieces by the 54

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nature-oriented proponents of the Barbizon School, other painters who depicted themes of harvest and wheat fields, and the avant-garde Impressionists of Van Gogh’s day, like Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, and Camille Pissarro.

A favorite image for Kahng is the Tarascon Stagecoach, which is usually on view at Princeton University, “my alma mater,” she says. “I’m so thrilled to be able to bring it. Van Gogh painted it to welcome Gauguin to [the home depicted in] The Yellow House”—which the two artists would share in Arles.

“Van Gogh had read about carriages like this in a novel,” Kahng continues, “and when he saw the actual conveyance, he conflated the images in the book and the real coach and painted the picture. It’s an emblem of many things that fed into his imagination.”

An innovation in the exhibit is a virtual flipbook, which an art historian put together from the portfolio of prints in Van Gogh’s personal collection.

“You can see what he admired and quoted in his painting,” Kahng says. “It’s really cool!”

Along with the exhibition, which will be on view until May 22, is a scholarly colloquium on March 13 and 14 that will include roundtable discussions and speakers. And an ongoing Community Partner Program will celebrate Van Gogh’s art and imagination with music, dance, and theater performances, sunflower sculptures by students, a juried art show by local artists, even themed cocktails and meals at area restaurants. And, yes, there will be a pop-up shop.

But this is really about a revelatory look at an iconic artist. Kahng notes that seeing one artist’s works close up and in proximity to one another “represents the creative process and our understanding of someone who’s long gone. When people see this, they’ll see things they never saw before. They’ll understand who Van Gogh was in a new way.” 

Upgrades

A Relaxing Oasis

CREATE A LUXURIOUS, MODERN BATHING SANCTUARY FOR THE ULTIMATE SELF-CARE.

By Frances Ryan Surfaces and structures are tiled with Kronos Ceramiche “Terra Crea” clay-texture porcelain in Calce from Buena Tile (buenatile.com). Turn the page for more details.

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1. Artisan by StoneImpressions “Leo” Carrara marble tile in bronze ($72 per square foot); Tileco Distributors: Ventura, Santa Barbara, Santa Maria, and San Luis Obispo; tilecodist.com. 2. Uttermost “Kenitra” arched mirror in matte black forged iron ($492); Cabana Home, Santa Barbara, cabanahome.com. 3. California Faucets “Palomar” high-flow-rate single-handle tub filler in Bella Terra bronze ($2,706); WDC Kitchen & Bath Center: Agoura Hills, Moorpark, Oxnard, and Santa Barbara, wdcappliances.com. 4. California Faucets 6-inch ultrathin round showerhead in Bella Terra bronze ($227); WDC Kitchen & Bath Center: Agoura Hills, Moorpark, Oxnard, and Santa Barbara, wdcappliances.com. 5. “Healdsburg” Turkish cotton towels with hand-knotted tassel fringe (hand towel, $38; bath towel, $58); Serena and Lily, Pacific Palisades, serenaandlily.com. 6. “Thaddeus” hammered metal stool with forged brass finish ($1,480); RH, Westlake Village and Santa Barbara, rhhome.com. 7. Kronos Ceramiche “Terra Crea” porcelain in Calce ($7 to $10 per square foot); Buena Tile: Agoura Hills, Ventura, and Santa Barbara; buenatile. com. 8. California Faucets “D Street” lavatory faucet in Bella Terra bronze ($945); WDC Kitchen & Bath Center: Agoura Hills, Moorpark, Oxnard, and Santa Barbara, wdcappliances.com. 9. Kohler “Abrazo” freestanding bathtub with center toe-tap drain ($9,248); WDC Kitchen & Bath Center: Agoura Hills, Moorpark, Oxnard, and Santa Barbara, wdcappliances.com. 10. Arteriors “Emmett” sconce in bronze-finished steel, antique brass, and glass ($570); Santa Barbara Designs of the Interior, santabarbaradesignsoftheinterior.com. 11. “Lombok” double vanity in hand-carved acacia with marble top ($3,198); Anthropologie: Santa Barbara and Westfield Topanga in Canoga Park, anthropologie.com. 12. Made Goods “Aubrie” bags with leather handles ($800 for set of two); The Sofa Guy, Thousand Oaks, thesofaguy.com. 

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CLINT WEISMAN

Montecito Bank & Trust (montecito.bank) held its 19th annual Community Dividends awards luncheon in November at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort. Through this generous annual giving tradition, the bank invests a portion of its profits in the community to help support organizations and programs that serve youth and education, social services, medical and health services, and the arts. To date, it has granted more than $19 million, including $1.2 million this year alone to 179 nonprofit organizations in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.

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A Checklist for Finding

JOY KEEPING RESOLUTIONS LIKE THESE CAN HAVE PROFOUND PAYOFFS.

BY ANDREA RENSKOFF

Vaccinations, boosters, and masks. Holidays without family and friends. More time indoors during winter weather. The daily news. These days, reasons to feel down seem to be waiting at every turn. Even people who have a naturally positive disposition may have to put some effort into keeping it that way. Fortunately, wellness experts Maryam Kia-Keating, PhD (kiakeating.com), a psychologist and professor of clinical psychology at UC Santa Barbara, and Heidi A. Zetzer, PhD (education. ucsb.edu/research-faculty), director of the Carol Ackerman Positive Psychology Clinic and teaching professor, Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology at UC Santa Barbara, have some tips and insights on how to sustain joy.

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© ALEKSANDAR NOVOSELSKI/STOCKSY UNITED

A Checklist for Finding JOY

Take in the Great Outdoors

“Sometimes nature is the best companion,” says Kia‑Keating. “Numerous studies have found that people who take time to walk in woodland versus urban areas experience lower heart rates, less anxiety, and better moods. It can also give you a chance to reset, keep you active, allow a break from screen time, and relieve that Zoom fatigue you might be experiencing.

Interestingly, just taking some time in nature can increase creativity and your willingness to be generous and helpful toward others, too.”

RX FOR OUTDOOR REJUVENATION “In the 805, we are fortunate to have access to a lot of opportunities to connect with nature,” says Kia-Keating. “We just have to have the intention and make the time. The Douglas Family Preserve (santabarbaraca.gov/gov/ depts/parksrec/parks/features/passiveopenspaces/ douglasfam.asp) in Santa Barbara is a perfect place to go. When people preserve land for all of us to use, it is a generous, long-lasting gift for the community.”

Be Thankful

Remembering pleasant occasions can induce positive emotions. “Keeping a gratitude journal is a wonderful way to invite more positive emotion into your life,” Zetzer says. “The science behind gratitude shows that it is associated with increased happiness, hope, empathy, kindness, and even physical activity.”

RX FOR GR ATITUDE Zetzer suggests using the following prompts from the Carol Ackerman Positive Psychology Clinic at UC Santa Barbara to focus on something each day to be thankful for.

A strength of mine for which I am grateful is…

The risk that I am most grateful for taking is…

Something positive that happened to me today is…

The person I am most grateful for is…

My favorite accomplishments are…

A painful experience that helped me grow is…

I am thankful that I could learn…

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© RZCREATIVE/STOCKSY UNITED

Stay Fully Present

Mindfulness—the practice of being fully present by focusing on where you are and what you are doing—can quiet your mind. “Pay attention to the present moment, on purpose, without judgment,” says Zetzer. “This invites curiosity, because we are connecting to our experience and the experience of others. One of the best qualities of being human is our capacity to invite and elicit positive emotion from ourselves and others,” Zetzer says. “Some positive emotions can start through what psychologists call an ‘openness to experience,’ which means that we are looking up and around and not down.” >

© THAIS VARELA/STOCKSY UNITED

© MILLES STUDIO/STOCKSY UNITED

A Checklist for Finding JOY

RX FOR MINDFULNESS Be aware of your surroundings and attentive to what you and others around you are doing and feeling. “Engage in an act of kindness or use your personal strengths in another meaningful way,” says Zetzer. “Savor positive emotions that rise up in response to an event. During the holidays a few years ago, I was feeling sad and depressed,” she says. “Very negative.

Even though I felt so bad that I was practically in tears, I needed half-and-half for my coffee, so I went to the store. While there, I was looking down a lot, not up and out. But something caught my eye in the canned foods aisle. I looked up and saw a baby, about 1 year old, looking right at me and smiling. That smile emanated love, contentment, joy, peace, and a way of being in the present moment that left me awestruck. And I thought, if a baby can be in the moment, maybe I can, too.”

Manage Stress

It’s easy to become overwhelmed if you don’t take steps to keep stress in check. “We can all get caught up in our busy schedules—which can feel like constant survival mode— and neglect our emotional needs,” says Kia‑Keating.

RX FOR STRESS-MANAGEMENT Practice selfcare, such as deep breathing or meditation, exercising regularly, staying hydrated, and taking time to relax. This will help keep things in balance.

Close the Gap

We are social beings and are not meant to be isolated.

“Having a supportive network, especially one that is healthy and happy, makes a big difference,” Kia‑Keating says. “Being socially connected is associated with better immune and cardiovascular functioning, and overall life satisfaction. So, having loved ones and nurturing those relationships can have a physiological impact as well as allow you opportunities for joy.”

RX FOR STAYING CONNECTED “Reach out to someone you miss and express gratitude to them,” Zetzer says, adding that such interactions are “associated with significant increases in feelings of well-being that can last for months. Being around positive people, savoring positive relationships, prizing them, and inviting feelings of gratitude increases positive emotion.”

Set Boundaries

Getting caught up in other people’s issues and needs, even those of a partner, parent, or child, can leave you feeling depleted. “Setting boundaries will help you maintain a sense of integrity and balance,” Zetzer says.

RX FOR MAINTAINING BALANCE Take a moment to see the bigger picture and establish limits so that you can care for yourself and make choices that don’t rob you of your own joy. >

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A Checklist for Finding JOY Caring for animals and enjoying the companionship they provide can have a profound impact on mood.

“Our ‘love’ neurotransmitter, oxytocin, is triggered by touch, like when you get and give a great hug or pet your puppy. It decreases fear and anxiety while increasing feelings of trust, generosity, and compassion,” says Kia‑Keating. “Pets increase your oxytocin and lower your blood pressure and your stress.”

RX FOR UNCONDITIONAL COMPANIONSHIP

Adopt a pet from a local shelter or spend time with someone else’s furry friend to get the boost that loving touch provides.

Cry It Out

Avoiding your emotions or criticizing yourself for feeling or expressing them can lead to stress, anxiety, depression, and even physical illness. Having a good

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cry can release and relieve bottled up feelings of anger, sadness, and frustration. “Acknowledging grief and loss and allowing ourselves to cry can be cleansing and affirming,” Zetzer says.

RX FOR RELEASING EMOTIONS Let your guard down and allow tears to flow freely. The impulse to cry can help you pay attention to and work through what you’re feeling, and giving in to it helps start the relaxation process.

Find Your Funny Bone

Humor provides a fresh outlook and a way to recharge.

And there’s nothing like a hearty laugh. “Good-natured laughter elevates our mood,” Zetzer says.

RX FOR LAUGHTER Watch a stand-up comedian, a funny movie or television show, or search online for amusing memes. Sharing laughter with someone is even better. 

© DEMETR WHITE/STOCKSY UNITED

Interact With a Pet

© BRAT CO/STOCKSY UNITED

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Making Memories

Area event professionals participate in a question-and-answer session, revealing trends and sharing inspiration for special occasions in 2022.

805 Weddings 2022

Elizabeth Messina

Owner Elizabeth Messina Photography Santa Barbara elizabethmessinaweddings.com

What trends are you seeing?

I have noticed smaller, more intimate gatherings, which I love. These times have been hard to navigate for all of us. Many of my couples are opting for smaller celebrations. Some have forgone wedding coverage and instead spent the day with me, doing private photographs, something like an extended engagement shoot, but in bridal attire.

What makes a great venue?

I love Sunstone Villa in Santa Ynez. There is so much open, natural space as well as stunning interiors. I also adore Rosewood Miramar Beach. This past summer I captured Dennis Quaid and his beautiful wife, Laura, on the beach there. It was wonderful.

Do you plan to use any new strategies, techniques, or elements this year?

This past year, I have been working on two new websites. I decided to create a site that is focused on weddings, engagement photos, and celebrations, and a separate commercial site (elizabethmessina.com).

I worked closely with Pixieset on both sites and am so happy with the results. I wanted to create a more user‑friendly site for engaged couples and have a place for my lifestyle work.

What has given you the greatest sense of pride?

I am still so thankful that my photographs are part of people’s lives. It’s an honor to be chosen to capture a couple at such a special time in their life. My images become part of their story and will be passed down through generations.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP, LEFT: ELIZABETH MESSINA; ELIZABETH MESSINA; CORAL VON ZUMWALT

Elizabeth Messina (right) is a photographer who specializes in capturing people in love. Although known for weddings and her natural light and film photographs, she also does a lot of commercial and lifestyle work.

“My images are intimate and accessible, and my goal is to capture authentic emotions,” says Messina. As a photographer, she says she feels “so lucky to live and work in a place with so much natural beauty and gorgeous light year round.”

Tracy Labastida Owner Field to Table Catering & Events Nipomo fttevents.com

For Tracy Labastida (top, right), Field to Table started out of a sheer love for creating amazing food and utilizing only the freshest local ingredients. “My family has been in the farming and agricultural industry for my entire life,” he says. “Some of my earliest memories are of running around in the produce fields of Santa Maria. I have always loved creating experiences for my family and friends, so the progression from farmer to caterer felt very natural.”

What trends are you seeing?

A huge trend we are definitely seeing more of is a desire for international flavors being incorporated into our menus, in a fusion style. Many of our clients are traveling from Los Angeles, San Francisco, or the East Coast, which are all regions that have a major blend of cultures and food styles. They have adventurous food preferences, which really have taken our menus in a different direction.

Some food styles we’ve prepared a lot recently are Asian influences, traditional French cuisine, and a hint of the Mediterranean.

Do you plan to use any new strategies, techniques, or elements this year?

I think the big thing is remaining flexible. The strategies and techniques used by our team are dictated entirely by what the client requests. So, something we pride ourselves on is the in-depth level of customization we employ throughout the entire menu-planning process. We know this level of personalization is not necessarily for everyone, but it really helps us get to know the people we’re working with. It can be easy to get comfortable and start leaning into complacency, but it is important to remind ourselves that our passion for creating unique and memorable experiences is a huge driving force for us.

What has given you the greatest sense of pride?

Creating a work culture in which our employees are able to showcase their individual talents and passions. We celebrate our successes together. As a business owner, it has been an immense pleasure to watch our employees take the values that are so important to me and apply them to their work ethic.

JEN RODRIGUEZ

What makes a great venue?

Although the majority of our business revolves around the exploding wedding industry in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, we have the pleasure of working at venues up and down the Central Coast. We always look forward to catering at Greengate Ranch & Vineyard in Edna Valley (above, right). The landscaping and on-site homes (there are four) are immaculately designed—from the modern and chic stables site to the more rustic ranch-style vibes of the beautiful barn. The property is versatile with countless usable spaces and photo opportunities everywhere you look.

What’s the most unusual request you’ve ever received?

Since we don’t have any stock menus, every single event is customized. This gives us the opportunity to bring our clients’ visions and preferences to life, no matter what lengths we must go to. Whether that means recreating an entrée from a Michelin Star restaurant or serving authentic Chick-Fil-A Sliders, we take every curveball and figure out a way to give the client exactly what they want.

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Lele Miranda

Owner, Pastry Chef Léle Pâtisserie lelepatisserie.com Lele Miranda (left) opened Léle Pâtisserie in 2013 after graduating from the French Pastry School in Chicago.

Servicing Santa Barbara and Ventura counties, Léle Pâtisserie specializes in wedding cakes. “I believe that a cake can be beautiful, delicious, and not too sweet,” says Miranda. “We work closely with our clients to make their personalized and one-of-a-kind designs and ideas become a reality.”

What trends are you seeing?

Pressed dried flowers are a huge trend. Palette-knife flowers and buttercream bas-relief are also really popular right now.

What makes a great venue?

There are so many to choose from! If you have a small guest count (20 or less) I love El Encanto’s Channel Islands room. The view is amazing, and the staff are beyond friendly. For a larger guest count (100+), Grassini Family Vineyards just has a great feel to it. The pond is beautiful, and the space is private. Also for large events, the grounds at Sunstone Villa are absolutely stunning. They’re inspired by a French villa.

What’s the most unusual request you’ve ever received?

Our most unusual requests come in the form of flavors. We are fully custom, so our clients are able to choose their flavor combinations. We once had a client choose carrot cake filled with alternating layers of raspberry jam and espresso buttercream. It actually worked well together. I’m not so sure about the coconut cake filled with passion fruit buttercream and frosted with mint buttercream we made one time. That was an acquired taste.

What has given you the greatest sense of pride?

I think to be a cake designer, you have to be a perfectionist. My greatest sense of pride comes when I have completed a complicated design, and I can’t find something to pick apart. The best feeling ever is to see your clients’ eyes light up when they see their wedding cake for the first time. I’ve had a few clients burst into happy tears, which will always make me shed a tear.

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TOP: LACIE HANSEN

Do you plan to use any new strategies, techniques, or elements this year?

We have noticed that fondant is not as popular as it used to be, so we’ll focus more on buttercream and perfecting our palette-knife technique. I love to freehand pipe in buttercream so working on different piped designs will play a big role in this year’s designs. We’re moving toward more nature-inspired designs with an organic feel, using fresh pressed flowers and fresh floral blooms, instead of the sugar flowers and fondant designs that were heavily favored in the past.

805 Weddings 2022

Tyler Speier

Owner, Creative Director Tyler Speier Events Santa Barbara tylerspeier.com Tyler Speier (left) is a luxury wedding planner, designer, and florist based in Santa Barbara. His portfolio includes multiday weddings and celebrity celebrations held all over the United States and abroad, and his work has been featured in Martha Stewart Weddings and InStyle, among other publications. As an educator in the events industry, he encourages creative professionals to be “brave, kind, and authentic.”

FROM TOP: JAMES AND JESS; JAMES AND JESS; LINDSEY BOICE; LINDSEY BOICE

What trends are you seeing?

After more than a year of not being able to gather with the people we love, couples are choosing to invest more time and funds into their celebrations, especially for live entertainment, over-the-top designs, outsidethe-box menus, and specialized little details—especially flowers.

From floral-filled aisles to hanging flowers, flower walls to floral installations crawling up walls and other architectural elements, couples are choosing flowers to create vibrant, colorful spaces for their guests to gather and celebrate.

What makes a great venue?

There are so many beautiful spaces.

Personally, I love weddings at locations that are sentimental to the couple—a private estate, a space where they got engaged, etc. San Ysidro Ranch is always one of my favorites for a more intimate event, and Hotel Californian has a fun, modern space with an incredible

menu. The Santa Barbara Historical Museum is a classic experience; we always love working with its team. The Lark, Santa Barbara Wine Collective, and Loquita (Acme Hospitality) are some of my favorite spots for rehearsal dinners, welcome drinks, and other events.

What’s the most unusual request you’ve ever received?

We had a client ask us to travel to a city to pick up their dress and then fly with it across the United States to their destination wedding, since they didn’t want to ship it. We ended up finding an alternative solution, but it was definitely an outside-the-box request.

Do you plan to use any new strategies, techniques, or elements this year?

Our company grew a lot this year.

We moved into a new office space, brought on two new full-time team members, and completed some of our biggest design installations to date. Expanding our team and moving to a large work space enabled us to better serve our clients, create more over-the-top designs, and is now giving us a foundation to thrive in 2022.

What has given you the greatest sense of pride?

Our work was completely taken away from us in 2020 and for the first part of 2021. Then, the world opened quickly, and all of a sudden we had two years’ worth of work to produce in a few short months. We did 52 events this year, and we normally do 20 to 25. I am proud of the hard work, positive outlook, professionalism, and kindness our team showed, even when things were super hard. 

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Transform a wedding or other special event into something extraordinary with the help of these local businesses.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ELIZABETH MESSINA

805 Weddings Resource Guide 2022

Beauty

Brit Tarr Hair and Makeup Simi Valley, brittarr.com

Cheek to Cheek Artistry Westlake Village, bookcheektocheek.com

Janet Villa Hair + Makeup Solvang, janetvilla.com

Rhonda Johnson

Cambria, bridalmakeupandhair.com

Rhythm & Hair at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village

fourseasons.com/westlakevillage

Team Hair & Makeup

Santa Barbara, teamhairandmakeupservice.com

Enjoy Cupcakes

Santa Barbara, Los Olivos, enjoycupcakes.com

Frost It Cakery

Thousand Oaks, frostitcakery.com

Jessica Foster Confections Santa Barbara, jessicafosterconfections.com

Léle Pâtisserie

Santa Barbara, lelepatisserie.com

Lilac Patisserie

Santa Barbara, lilacpatisserie.com

Loria Stern

Santa Barbara, loriastern.com

Omni Catering

Carpinteria, omnicateringsb.com

Poe & Co.

Santa Barbara, poe-and-co.com

Pure Joy Catering

Santa Barbara, purejoycatering.com

Rock Chef Rolls

Westlake Village, rockchefrolls.com

Seasons Catering

Ventura, seasonscateringca.com

Simply Cocktails

Santa Barbara, simplycocktailssb.com

Tierra Sur at Herzog Wine Cellars

Sprinkles Cupcakes

Oxnard, tierrasuratherzog.com

Sugar Lab Bake Shop

Dance Instruction

Westlake Village, sprinkles.com

Bridal Wear

Ventura, sugarlabbakeshop.com

Arthur Murray Dance Centers

Bella Bridal Couture

Sweet Arleen’s

Thousand Oaks, bellabridalcouture.com

Westlake Village, sweetarleens.com

Thousand Oaks, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Canoga Park, arthurmurray.com

The Bridal Collection

Caterers

The Wedding Dancer

Thousand Oaks, tobridalcolletion.com

Ever After Bridal Boutique Moorpark, ea-bridal.com

To Have & To Hold Bridal Salon and Boutique

San Luis Obispo, tohaveandtoholdbridalsalon.com

Cakes/Desserts/ Favors

Catering Connection

Santa Barbara, theweddingdancer.com

805 Catering Company

Event Planners & Designers

Santa Barbara, cateringconnect.com Thousand Oaks, 805catering.com

Command Performance Catering Group & Event Production Moorpark, cpcatering.com

Copper and Crystal (bar service)

Alessia Patisserie & Cafe

San Luis Obispo copperandcrystal.com

Bread Basket Cake Company

DJ’s California Catering

Santa Barbara, alessiapatisserie.com

Camarillo, facebook.com/ breadbasketcakecompany

The Cakery

Atascadero, slocakery.com

Christine’s Cake Creations Paso Robles, christinescakecreations.com

Crushcakes & Cafe

Santa Barbara, Goleta, crushcakes.com

Decadence Fine Cakes & Confections

Buellton, decadenceweddingcakes.com

Alegria by Design

Santa Barbara, alegriabydesign.com

Bella Vita Events

Westlake Village, bellavitaevents.com

Hive

Santa Barbara, hiveeventssb.com

Onyx + Redwood

Ventura, djscatering.com

Santa Barbara, onyxandredwood.com

Duo Catering & Events

Churchill House Events

Santa Barbara, duoevents.com

Westlake Village, churchill-intl.com

Field to Table Catering and Events

Exquisite Events

Justine’s Private Cuisine

Imagine Weddings and Special Events

Nipomo, fttevents.com

Thousand Oaks, justinesprivatecuisine.com

Liquid Cult

Santa Barbara, liquidcult.com

New West Catering

Buellton, newwestcatering.com

Westlake Village, exquisevents.com

Santa Barbara, imaginesb.com

Joy Proctor Design

Santa Barbara, joyproctor.com

Karson Butler Events San Luis Obispo, karsonbutlerevents.com >

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805 Weddings Resource Guide 2022

La Fleur Weddings & Events Santa Ynez, lafleurweddings.com

Lisa Vorce Co

Los Angeles, lisavorce.com

Merryl Brown Events

Montecito, merrylbrown.com

Rani Hoover Inspired Weddings & Events

Santa Barbara, Los Olivos, mindyrice.com

Renae’s Bouquet

Santa Ynez, renaesbouquet.com

Unique Floral Designs

Simi Valley, uniquefloraldesigns.com

Montecito Country Club montecitoclub1918.com

Moorpark Country Club moorparkgolf.com

North Ranch Country Club

Westlake Village, northranchcc.org

Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club

Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez, ranihoover.com

Velvet Blooms

Santa Barbara Wine Country Weddings & Events

Westlake Florist

sbwinecountryevents.com

Westlake Village, westlakeflowers.com

Tyler Speier Events

Wild Poppy Floral Design

Wild Heart Events

XO Bloom

Florists

Jewelers

Locations– Hotels/Resorts

San Luis Obispo, baxtermoerman.com

Solvang, alisal.com

Santa Barbara, tylerspeier.com Santa Barbara, wildheartevents.com

Adornments Flowers & Finery San Luis Obispo, adornmentsflowers.com

Alexis Ireland Florals Santa Barbara, alexisirelandflorals.com

April Flowers

Atascadero, aprilflowersslo.com

Camellia Floral & Landscape Design

Santa Barbara, camelliadesignsb.com

The English Garden Westlake Village, theenglishgarden.com

Foriver Floral

Santa Barbara, foriverfloral.com

Hogue & Co. Floral & Event Design

Ventura, velvetblooms.com

Ballard, wildpoppyfloraldesign.com

Carpinteria, sbpolo.com

Sherwood Country Club

Thousand Oaks, sherwoodcc.com

Spanish Hills Country Club Camarillo, spanishhillscc.com

Wood Ranch Golf Club

Simi Valley, woodranchgc.com

Westlake Village, xobloom.com

Baxter Moerman Jewelry

The Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort

Ben Bridge

Allegretto Vineyard Resort

Thousand Oaks, Canoga Park, benbridge.com

Paso Robles, allegrettovineyardresort.com

Cartier

Belmond El Encanto

Canoga Park, cartier.com

Kirk Jewelers

Westlake Village, kirkjewelers.com

Lady Face Jewelers

by Patille

Agoura Hills, ladyfacejewelers.com

Polacheck’s Jewelers

Calabasas, polachecks.com

Rock Star Couture Jewelry Westlake Village, rockstarcouturejewelry.com

Montecito, hoguefloral.com

Silverhorn

Idlewild Floral & Event Design

Tiffany & Co.

Santa Barbara, silverhorn.com

Santa Barbara, belmond.com/elencanto

Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club

Malibu, calamigosguestranch.com

Canary, a Kimpton Hotel Santa Barbara, canarysantabarbara.com

Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa

Pismo Beach, thedolphinbay.com

Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village

fourseasons.com/westlakevillage

Hotel Californian

Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, idlewildfloral.com

Canoga Park, tiffany.com

Santa Barbara, thehotelcalifornian.com

Jenn Sanchez

Van Gundy Diamonds Camarillo, vangundys.com

Hyatt Regency Westlake

Oxnard, jennchez.com

Joy Proctor Design

Santa Barbara, joyproctor.com

Knot Just Flowers

Ventura, knotjustflowersdesign.com

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Mindy Rice Floral & Event Design

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Locations– Country Clubs

Calabasas Country Club calabasasgolf.com

Westlake Village, westlake.hyatt.com

Inn at Morro Bay innatmorrobay.com

Inn at the Pier

Pismo Beach, theinnatthepier.com >

805 Weddings Resource Guide 2022

Ojai Valley Inn ojairesort.com

Palm Garden Hotel Thousand Oaks, palmgardenhotel.com

Grassini Family Vineyards Santa Ynez, grassinifamilyvineyards.com

Greengate Ranch & Vineyard

Locations– Other Venues

Country Meadow Ranch

Somis, countrymeadowranch.com

San Luis Obispo, greengateweddings.com

Flying Caballos Ranch

HammerSky Vineyards & Inn

Granada Theatre

Montecito, rosewoodhotels.com/en/miramar

Herzog Wine Cellars

Hartley Botanica

San Ysidro Ranch

Justin

Hummingbird Nest

SeaVenture Beach Hotel & Restaurant

Niner Wine Estates

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara

Santa Barbara, ritzcarlton.com/santabarbara

Rosewood Miramar Beach

Montecito, sanysidroranch.com

Pismo Beach, seaventure.com

Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa

Paso Robles, hammersky.com Oxnard, herzogwine.com

Paso Robles, justinwine.com Paso Robles, ninerwine.com

Opolo Vineyards

Paso Robles, opolo.com

San Luis Obispo, sycamoresprings.com

Peachy Canyon

Vespera on Ocean

Petros Winery

Westlake Village Inn

Presqu’ile Vineyard & Winery

Pismo Beach, vesperapismobeach.com westlakevillageinn.com

Locations– Wineries/Vineyards Bodega Los Alamos bodegalosalamos.com

Brave & Maiden

Santa Ynez, braveandmaiden.com

Ca’ Del Grevino Vineyard and Estate Santa Maria, grevino.com

Eberle Winery

Paso Robles, eberlewinery.com

Edna Valley Vineyard San Luis Obispo, ednavalleyvineyard.com

Epona Estate

Hidden Valley, eponaestate.com

Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard

Paso Robles, peachycanyon.com Los Olivos, petrosbrand.com

Santa Maria, presquilewine.com

Rava Wines + Events

Paso Robles, ravawines.com

Refugio Ranch Vineyards Santa Ynez, refugioranch.com

Robert Hall Winery

Paso Robles, roberthallwinery.com

Saddlerock Ranch

Malibu, saddlerock-ranch.com

Sanford Winery & Vineyards Lompoc, sanfordwinery.com

SummerWood Winery & Inn Paso Robles, summerwoodwine.com

Sunstone Vineyards & Winery

Santa Ynez, sunstonewinery.com

Tooth & Nail Winery

San Luis Obispo, flyingcaballos.com Santa Barbara, granadasb.org Somis, hartleybotanica.com Simi Valley, hummingbirdnestranch.com

La Lomita Ranch

San Luis Obispo, lalomitaranch.com

Lieff Ranch

Los Olivos, lieffranch.com

Limoneira Co.

Santa Paula, limoneira.com

Maravilla Gardens

Camarillo, mgardens.com

MOXI The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation Santa Barbara, moxi.org

The Narrative Loft

Santa Barbara, thenarrativeloft.com

Ojai Ranch House theranchhouse.com

Quail Ranch

Simi Valley, quailranchevents.com

Rancho de las Palmas

Moorpark, ranchodelaspalmas.com

Roblar Farm

Santa Ynez, roblarwinery.com/roblar-farm

Santa Barbara Historical Museum sbhistorical.org

Santa Barbara Zoo sbzoo.org

Paso Robles, toothandnailwinery.com

Spreafico Farms

Firestone Vineyard

Vina Robles Vineyards & Winery

The White Barn Edna Valley

Paso Robles, vinarobles.com

San Luis Obispo, ednavalleywhitebarn.com

Gainey Vineyard

Zaca Creek Ranch

Valley & Villa

Los Olivos, fessparker.com Los Olivos, firestonewine.com Santa Ynez, gaineyvineyard.com

Santa Ynez, zacacreekranch.com

San Luis Obispo, spreaficofarms.com

Montecito, valleyandvilla.com >

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805 Weddings Resource Guide 2022

Party/Tent Rentals, DJs, & Event Production

The Tent Merchant

Ventura, amigopartyrentals.com

Santa Barbara, tehonicollection.com

Santa Barbara, kristenbeinke.com

Town & Country

Meg Sorel Photography

Amigo Party Rentals, Inc. Backdrop Boutique SB Santa Barbara, backdropboutiquesb.com

Bella Vista Designs Santa Barbara, bellavistadesigns.com

Blush Fine Linens

Santa Barbara, thetentmerchant.com

Theoni Collection

Santa Barbara, townandcountryeventrentals.com

Photography/Video Albany Katz

Ventura, albanykatz.com

San Luis Obispo, blushfinelinens.com

B Studios

Bright Event Rentals

Bessy the Foto Bus

Santa Barbara, bright.com

Bruce Barrios Productions

Ventura, brucebarrios.com

DJ Darla Bea

Santa Barbara, djdarlabea.com

Elan Event Rentals Santa Barbara, elaneventrentals.com

Event Staff Solutions

Ventura, eventstaffsolutions.net

Fold

Santa Barbara, foldsantabarbara.com

Gypset Events

Malibu, gypsetevent.com

La Tavola Fine Linen Rental Santa Barbara, latavolalinen.com

Otis + Pearl Vintage Rentals Ventura, otisandpearl.com

Scott Topper Productions Santa Barbara, scotttopperproductions.com

Scout Rental Co.

Templeton, scoutrentalco.com

Spark Creative Events Santa Barbara, sparkcreativeevents.com

Tap Truck (vintage craft beer truck)

Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, taptruckcentralcoast.com

Santa Barbara, bstudios.org Arroyo Grande, bessythefotobus.com

Cameron Ingalls Photography San Luis Obispo, cameroningalls.com

Cara Robbins Studio Santa Barbara, cararobbinsstudio.com

Elizabeth Messina Santa Barbara, elizabethmessina.com

Isabel Lawrence Photographers

Oxnard, isabellawrence.com

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Thousand Oaks, kendallannphoto.com

Kristen Beinke Photography

Santa Barbara, megansorel.com

Mi Belle Photographers

Westlake Village, mibelleinc.com

Michael + Anna Costa Photography Santa Barbara, michaelandannacosta.com

Michelle Warren Photography

San Luis Obispo, mwfoto.com

Shutter Bus Co.

Ventura, shutterbusco.com

Susan Bordelon Photography

Agoura Hills, susanbordelon.com

Wild Whim Design + Photography

Thousand Oaks, wildwhimphotography.com

Yvonne Goll Photography San Luis Obispo, yvonnegollphotography.com

Stationery

James & Jess Photography

Emily Rose Papers

Santa Barbara, jamesandjess.com

Simi Valley, emilyrosepapers.com

Jeff Newsom Photographer

Fla-de-Dahs

San Luis Obispo, jeffnewsom.com

Agoura Hills, fladedahs.com

Jenny Quicksall Photography

Folio Press & Paperie

Thousand Oaks, jennyquicksall.com

Jeremy Foster Films Santa Barbara, jeremyfosterfilms.com

Jillian Rose Photography

Solvang, jillianrosephotography.com

Santa Barbara, foliopressandpaperie.com

The Giving Ink

Solvang, thegivingink.com

Letter Perfect Santa Barbara

letterperfectsantabarbara.com

Joel Serrato Photographer

Solvang, joelserrato.com

Jose Villa Photographer Solvang, josevilla.com

Katie Moos Photography Santa Barbara, katiemoos.com

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Kendall Ann Photography

Transportation

Jump on The School Bus Santa Barbara, jumpontheschoolbus.com 

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Taste FOOD / WINE / DINING OUT

Dark Star

THE DEEPLY COLORED BLOOD ORANGE ECLIPSES ITS CITRUS COUNTERPARTS IN THESE RECIPES FROM LOCAL CHEFS.

By Jaime Lewis

BLOOD ORANGE PAVLOVA Taylor Tate of Golden Opal Baking (facebook. com/goldenopalbaking) in Santa Maria got into blood oranges a few years ago while working at a restaurant. “Once I tried them, I was hooked,” she says. “I had a little bit of a love affair with them and used blood oranges in any way I could think of for my plated desserts.”

In this dramatic pavlova, Tate fills a meringue base with blood orange curd, whipped mascarpone and fresh blood orange segments tossed with honey and mint. She recommends patience when baking the meringue for the pavlova. “Making sure to wait for the pavlova to cool all the way down in the oven is how you’ll guarantee it’ll be crunchy on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside,” she says.

Serves 8 to 10 MERINGUE BASE 7 egg whites 1½ cups sugar ½ teaspoon vanilla

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mutation develops into deeply hued blood oranges that are prized from Sicily and Spain all the way to the 805.

As a home cook, I consider blood oranges one of the great consolations of winter produce, though finding them can be tricky. I have the best luck at farmers markets—and even some grocery stores—from December through April. While they come in several varieties, the most common one in California is the Moro Blood Orange, whose flesh becomes darker and darker throughout the season as its acidity drops. The earlier you find them, the more vibrant and balanced your blood oranges will taste.

While these sanguine beauties are delicious when picked fresh from the tree, cooks and bakers find their muse in blood oranges as an ingredient, too. Here, four Central Coast chefs share their favorite ways to use these dark stars of the citrus family.

2 teaspoons cornstarch 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice BLOOD ORANGE CURD 1¼ cups sugar Zest of 3 blood oranges ⅓ cup blood orange juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice 4 eggs Pinch of salt 4 tablespoons butter BLOOD ORANGE COMPOTE Segments from 4 blood oranges 2 ounces good quality honey 3 sprigs fresh mint, chopped thinly (about 1 tablespoon), plus whole leaves, as desired, for garnish MASCARPONE WHIP 6 ounces mascarpone 4 tablespoons heavy cream 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

To make the meringue base: Preheat oven to 335°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment and set it aside.

In a heatproof bowl combine egg whites, sugar, and vanilla and whisk together. Set bowl over a pan of simmering water and whisk continually until sugar is dissolved and egg-white mixture measures 170°F on an instant-read thermometer, 8 to 10 minutes.

Transfer the mixture into bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, and beat until mixture forms stiff peaks, 10 to 12 minutes. Reduce mixer speed to low and add cornstarch and lemon juice. Whip on high speed for 1 more minute to combine thoroughly.

Place a small amount of meringue under each corner of the parchment on the baking sheet to keep it in place. Scrape meringue onto parchment-lined baking sheet, and use an offset spatula to shape it into an 8-inch circle. You can leave it rustic or use a spoon to add some ridges by dragging the back of it >

©NADINE GREEFF/STOCKSY UNITED

A

blood orange is one of the great pranksters of the fruit kingdom. From the outside, it appears unassuming, a faint blush across the rind the only hint at what lies beneath. Cut it open and the joke’s on you: this is no hohum orange. Inside hides a cache of jubilant winecolored flesh that tastes like an orange with dreams of someday becoming a raspberry.

Is it magic? Witchcraft? Genetic engineering at its most delicious?

None of the above. Blood oranges are the result of a natural mutation from standard oranges. The difference lies in an antioxidant compound called anthocyanin, also found in cherries and strawberries, which gives the blood orange its distinctive dark color and red-fruit flavor. When cultivated in Mediterranean climates with cold nights, this

Taste Food

BLOOD ORANGE, FENNEL, AND RADICCHIO SALAD Lynn Gray was a personal chef in Los Angeles for many years before she launched her website Bijouxs Little Jewels From the Kitchen (bijouxs.com) and authored a series of cookbooks. Citrus is a theme in her recipes and in her life. “I grew up just a block away from the Sunkist groves and the citrus-processing center in the San Fernando Valley,” says Gray. “Playing in the orange groves as a child is a lasting memory.”

Today, she lives in Ventura, not far from the Pixie tangerine groves of Ojai. For this salad, she urges home cooks to source their citrus from farmers markets. “Cooking with the season allows you to purchase locally grown fresh produce,” she says. “I take my cues from the choices available in season.

There is always fresh produce to purchase and a new recipe to sample.”

Serves 2 DRESSING 2 medium Pixie tangerines 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 teaspoons honey ½ teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

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vibrant color of this orange is what makes it so special.” She says that the fruit’s dramatic hue can turn a blah dish into something extraordinary whether is in the form of a sauce or simply slices placed on top. She recommends trying this chicken dish on the grill, too, cooked over indirect heat and turned frequently to keep the skin from burning.

Blood Orange, Fennel, and Radicchio Salad

SALAD 2 medium blood oranges 2 medium pixie tangerines 1 large head radicchio 1 small fennel bulb To make the dressing: Cut tangerines in half and juice them (about 2 tablespoons of juice).

Whisk together tangerine juice, olive oil, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

To make the salad: Peel blood oranges and tangerines and remove as much white pith as possible. Use a serrated knife to slice peeled citrus fruit crosswise into thin slices.

Cut radicchio in half lengthwise. Gently remove core and separate the leaves. Slice the fennel in half lengthwise and use a handheld mandoline to slice thinly. Reserve fennel fronds for garnish.

Arrange radicchio leaves on two plates.

Top with tangerine, blood orange, and fennel slices. Drizzle each plate with dressing. Tear fennel fronds and sprinkle over top.

STICKY-SPICY-SEXY ASIAN BLOOD ORANGE CHICKEN Thousand Oaks private chef Debby Poe (chefdebby.com) helps people celebrate special occasions, from dinner parties to intimate weddings. She developed this recipe for a client who requested a chicken dish with Asian flavors. “Citrus fruits are my favorite fruit,” says Poe. “Especially oranges. The

Serves 6 ¾ cup fresh-squeezed blood orange juice (from about 4 blood oranges) ½ cup brown sugar 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 2 large garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon grated ginger ½ cup tamari sauce or soy sauce 1 teaspoon sesame oil ¼ teaspoon red chili oil, optional (for an extra kick) ½ cup honey ¼ cup water 3 pounds skin-on boneless (or bone-in) chicken thighs 1 jalapeño, seeds removed, thinly sliced 5 green onions, sliced, greens and whites separated Chopped cilantro, for garnish 2–3 small blood oranges, thinly sliced, for garnish In a small mixing bowl, whisk blood orange juice, brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, garlic, ginger, tamari, sesame oil, chili oil, honey, and water to create both a marinade and a sauce.

Set aside one-third of marinade/sauce mixture to use as sauce. Place remaining twothirds in a shallow dish and toss chicken with it to coat well. Cover and refrigerate chicken for 2 to 6 hours.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a large glass casserole dish with oil/nonstick spray and transfer marinated chicken thighs to dish.

Reserve used marinade, keeping it separate from unused mixture reserved for sauce.

Bake chicken, basting with used marinade every 12 to 15 minutes. After 20 minutes, place blood orange slices on top. Bake 20 to 25 minutes more, basting with used marinade every 12 to 15 minutes. Chicken is done when its center measures 165°F on an instant-read thermometer.

In a small saucepan, simmer reserved unused marinade/sauce mixture. Add jalapeño slices and white parts of green onion to pan and cook on low heat for about 5 minutes until mixture reduces slightly, thickens and becomes sticky. Garnish chicken with sauce, cilantro leaves, and green parts of sliced green onions.

LYNN MARIE GRAY

upward on the sides of the meringue.

Put pavlova into the oven and immediately turn heat to down 220°F. Bake for 2 hours without opening oven door. Turn oven off, keeping door closed, and allow pavlova to cool inside oven for at least 2 hours. (Opening the oven door will deflate the pavlova, creating large cracks in it.)

To make Blood Orange Curd: In a saucepan over low heat, combine all ingredients. Whisk continually until mixture reaches the consistency of sour cream, 12 to 15 minutes. Strain curd into a bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

To make Blood Orange Compote: Toss together blood orange segments, honey, and mint. Allow to macerate in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the pavlova.

To make the Mascarpone Whip: In a small bowl, combine all ingredients, and using an electric mixer, whip on high speed until soft peaks form, 1 to 2 minutes.

Assemble the pavlova just before serving.

Dollop a generous amount of Blood Orange Curd in the center of meringue base. Add Mascarpone Whip and then Blood Orange Compote. Garnish with mint leaves if desired, and serve immediately.

CALI-SQUEEZE BLOOD ORANGE STREUSEL At Firestone Walker taprooms (firestonebeer. com) in Paso Robles and Buellton, head chef Felipe Cedillo incorporates the pioneering brand’s beer into dishes both savory and sweet. Here, he puts Firestone Walker CaliSqueeze Blood Orange hefeweizen to use in a blood orange jam that’s layered into a delicate streusel. You can, of course, use any blood orange beer you can find. Either way, this seasonal streusel serves as a terrific foil for savory dishes at a cozy winter brunch.

Makes 9 squares BLOOD ORANGE JAM 4 blood oranges, peeled 1 cup granulated sugar 1 cup Firestone Walker Cali-Squeeze Blood Orange Beer (or any blood orange beer) Juice of 1 lemon 1 tablespoon vanilla extract STREUSEL 1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature ½ cup sugar ¼ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups all-purpose flour To make the Blood Orange Jam: Cut peeled blood oranges into thick slices and remove any seeds. Using a food processor, puree oranges in batches. Add pureed oranges to a large pot. Stir in sugar, blood orange beer, lemon juice, and vanilla. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to medium and cook for approximately 20 minutes. Remove from heat and cool completely.

To make the streusel: Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9x9-inch square baking pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper leaving ends long.

Add butter and sugar to a medium mixing bowl, and use an electric mixer to cream them together until well combined and fluffy. Blend in salt and vanilla. Add flour gradually and mix until just combined. There should be no dry flour left unincorporated, but the mixture will be crumbly.

Pat approximately two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

Spread Blood Orange Jam evenly over dough.

Using your fingertips, crumble remaining dough over jam.

Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until streusel begins to turn golden brown. Remove it from oven and set aside to cool before cutting it into squares. 

Family owned for 33 years

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Finest Excitement in 805 Land!

Enjoy Humpbacks, migrating gray whales, seals, and sea lions. Bring your family or group on board!

Book Your Reservations!

The Landing • 888-77WHALE • www.condorexpress.com

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Taste Spirits Photograph by Gary Moss

Mocktails Come Into Their Own

NO LONGER JUST UNDERSTUDIES TO THEIR COCKTAIL COUSINS, THESE BEVERAGES ARE MORE ABOUT FLAVOR THAN THEY ARE ABOUT A LACK OF ALCOHOL.

At Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village, Coin & Candor mixologists are shaking up artfully crafted mocktails, like The Cucumber Crush and The Blackberry Nirvana.

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t’s almost unfair to compare all drinks containing alcohol to all drinks without. We don’t do the same with water; there are no known non-H₂O cocktail menus, are there? Does your favorite bar have a selection of non–pineapple juice mixed drinks? Hardly.

But alas, alcohol is a distinct drink ingredient, if for no other reason than it gets the law involved with taxes and regulations and whatnot, so it’s always best to know

THE BLACKBERRY NIRVANA Coin & Candor at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village (coinandcandor.com) mixes up this fruit-forward recipe.

Makes 1 mocktail 3 fresh blackberries 2 ounces Seedlip Grove nonalcoholic spirit ½ ounce fresh lemon juice ¼ ounce pomegranate juice ½ ounce agave syrup or nectar 1 ounce club soda 1 lemon twist, for garnish In a cocktail shaker, muddle blackberries.

Add nonalcoholic spirit, fresh lemon and pomegranate juices, agave syrup or nectar and club soda and shake. Strain over a large single ice cube (or standard size cubes) in a rocks glass. Garnish with lemon twist.

THE CUCUMBER CRUSH Egg white adds a frothy foam to this drink at Coin & Candor. Note: For recipes that call for raw egg, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises using eggs that have been treated to destroy salmonella by pasteurization or another approved method.

Makes 1 mocktail 2 ounces Seedlip Garden nonalcoholic spirit ¼ ounce organic honey ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice 2 slices cucumber 5 mint leaves ½ pasteurized egg white

whether your drink has it or doesn’t.

The following recipes don’t have it, but again, don’t compare them to tipples that do. Good mocktails take as much time and effort to create as any cocktail, because it’s never just a matter of omitting the booze. The flavors are still intended to refresh and delight, because the recipes come from local, professional mixologists who know that— alcohol or not—a good drink is a good drink.

Black pepper, 1 twist of a grinder, for garnish In a cocktail shaker, combine nonalcoholic spirit, honey, lemon juice, cucumber, mint, and egg white. Add two ice cubes, cover, and shake until ice melts. Double strain into a coupe or martini glass and garnish with black pepper.

SPICED SHRUB PUNCH Brandon Gomez, beverage director at Cuyama Buckhorn in New Cuyama (cuyamabuckhorn.com) spikes this punch with cayenne pepper for a touch of spicy heat.

Makes 1 mocktail 1 pint simple syrup 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, divided 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, divided 1 ounce lime juice, plus extra for rimming glass 1 ounce pineapple juice 1 ounce Sideyard Shrubs Kumquat Shrub (drinksideyard.com) In the bowl of a blender, combine a pint of simple syrup and 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper.

Blend until cayenne pepper dissolves. Set aside.

On a small plate or glass rimmer, mix kosher salt, smoked paprika, and remaining cayenne pepper. Pour lime juice on a second plate or glass rimmer. Dip rim of a rocks glass into lime juice and then into spice mix.

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add 1 ounce cayenne-spiced simple syrup, 1 ounce lime juice, pineapple juice, and kumquat shrub.

Shake and pour into rimmed glass.

SWEET APPLE PRESS Famliar pie companions apple and ginger come together in this bubbly refreshment

by Brandon Gomez, beverage director at Cuyama Buckhorn.

Makes 1 mocktail 1 ounce lemon juice 3¾ ounces Demerara syrup 4 ounces ginger beer 4 apple slices In a cocktail shaker, muddle three apple slices with lemon juice and Demerara syrup; add ice and shake. Strain into a Collins glass, fill with ice, and top with ginger beer. Garnish with remaining apple slice.

THE BOTANIST Amanda Lee, mixologist at Ojai Valley Inn’s Wallace Neff Bar (ojaivalleyinn.com) sweetens this beverage with elderflower tonic and adds a hint of fresh brightness with a cucumber garnish.

Makes 1 mocktail 1½ ounces Seedlip Garden nonalcoholic spirit 4½ ounces Fever Tree Elderflower Tonic Cucumber, sliced into thin ribbon, for garnish Pour nonalcoholic spirit into a tall glass over ice. Slowly top with elderflower tonic. Garnish with cucumber ribbon. ·

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Taste Dining Out

By Nancy Ransohoff Photographs by Gary Moss

Waterfront Gathering REUNION KITCHEN + DRINK BRINGS MODERN COMFORT FOOD TO SANTA BARBARA’S EAST BEACH.

A

On the Avocado Wontons snack plate at Santa Barbara’s new Reunion Kitchen + Drink, three crisp wonton shells serve as vessels for a zesty melange of cucumber, watermelon, avocado, pickled red onion, and radish, dressed in citrus vinaigrette. Seating (below) includes elegant leather banquettes.

restaurant that can’t be seen from the street might be thought to be at a disadvantage. But in the case of Reunion Kitchen + Drink (reunionkitchen. net), such a location is definitely a plus. The highly anticipated eatery, which opened in November, is nestled on the lower floor of the newly renovated Cabrillo Pavilion (formerly known as the Cabrillo Arts Pavilion), just a few steps from the sand on Santa Barbara’s East Beach.

But Scott McIntosh, who owns the Orange County-based restaurant company with his wife Rosemary, was clearly not content to let its third location (others are in Anaheim Hills and Laguna Hills) rest on its beachside laurels. A complete renovation lends a light, beachy feel to the original open-beam architecture of the space. “This building has a lot of history, and we wanted to respect that,” says McIntosh. Rattan elements in chairs and chandeliers, white stucco walls, and tilework in

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shades of blue and taupe add to the ambiance, while wood accents and brown leather banquettes infuse it with warmth. The spacious beachfront patio is a prime spot for catching the sunset, but it’s also welcoming and dog-friendly day and night, with umbrellas, heaters, and a glowing firepit.

“This is our beach version of Reunion,” says McIntosh. He explains that the name refers to the conviviality of getting together with family and friends, and creating fond memories. “We really try to get to know our customers’ names,” he says. “We value that feeling of creating community.”

McIntosh also takes the familyowned and -run concept seriously. He and Rosemary have five daughters, all of whom work in the business.

(Their idea, not his, he points out.) A 47-year veteran of the restaurant industry, McIntosh crafted an extensive menu of “dishes that I know have worked over the years,” he says, “that people love and come back for. We pay attention to that crave-able aspect.”

A generous crown of tuna tops rings of mango relish and avocado in The Ahi Poke Stack.

A smattering of fresh seafood dishes, such as Crab and Shrimp Ceviche and Coconut Shrimp are exclusive to the Santa Barbara location. “This menu is a little more seafood forward, and we’re using local purveyors as much as we can,” says McIntosh. Of the wide variety of choices, he says, “It’s a pretty aggressive menu. But everything is scratch-made.”

At the time of this writing, Reunion offers lunch and dinner, with weekend and holiday breakfast and brunch service slated to begin soon. “The DNA of this place is a breakfast spot,” McIntosh says, referring to the former East Beach Grill, which occupied the space for decades and was known for its pancakes. >

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Taste Dining Out

A bartender pours one of a rotating selection of brews on tap.

The new restaurant’s all-day menu is divided into Snack Plates, Fresh Produce + Bowls, Burgers + Sandwiches, and Reunion Favorites. Portions tend to be generous, so a good game plan is to order a few plates to share. A standout snack plate is the trio of Avocado Wontons. The zesty play of colors and textures filling these crispy fried wonton cups includes cucumber noodles, watermelon and avocado chunks, pickled red onion, and julienned radish, sprinkled with black sesame seeds, cilantro, and bright house-made citrus vinaigrette. Another winner is Asian Crispy Ribs, tender baby back ribs with sweet and mildly spicy chili sauce, served with crunchy Thai peanut slaw.

The Prime Rib Dip makes for a satisfying lunch or dinner, with thin slices of tender prime rib piled on a rustic French roll spread with horseradish aioli. It’s served with au jus for dipping and accompanied by a choice of salt-and-pepper shoestring fries, crunchy slaw, or warm potato salad. A tried-and-true Reunion favorite is the soul-satisfying Rosemary’s Chicken & Biscuits, featuring hand-battered crispy fried chicken served with mashed potatoes and sausage gravy, a buttermilk biscuit with honey butter, and roasted vegetables. Cap it off with a dessert of warm butter cake paired with vanilla bean ice cream, raspberry purée, and fresh whipped cream—sweet comfort on a plate.

The beverage list emphasizes local wines that complement the varied cuisine, along with a rotating selection of craft beers and cocktails. Happy hour Monday through Friday from 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. features discounted snack plates, $2 draft beer minis, and discounts on draft and bottled beers, wines by the glass, all well spirits, and signature cocktails.

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executed dishes keep loyal followers coming back for lunch and dinner. For the evening meal, chef Salome Cervantes offers classic dishes with global influences, such as Tellicherry peppercorn–encrusted Choice Beef Filet Mignon and Slow Roasted Boar Shank in a rich demi-glace. Fresh locally sourced fish, pastas, and salads round out the menu along with housemade desserts including crème brûlée. Lunchtime offerings include soups, pastas, and salads like Zack’s Tostada, which comes with a choice of grilled shrimp, chicken, or vegetables. The wine list highlights local bottlings.

THE CHASE RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE 1012 State St. Santa Barbara, 805-965-4351 chasebarandgrill.com Italian; Entrées $16–$44 Romantic

THE DINING GUIDE Our aim is to inform you of restaurants with great food that you might not have experienced yet. This guide is arranged not by cuisine type, but by style of restaurant. “Fine Dining” choices have an elegant atmosphere and very professional service. Restaurants included under the “Foodie” heading are heralded for their wonderful chef-driven cuisine, regardless of atmosphere. “Good Eats” listings are just that—solid, casual, and delicious. The “Fun, Fun, Fun” category brings you spots geared toward a good time.

New listings will appear in Where to Eat Now in every issue. Please send any comments and suggestions to edit@805living.com.

MORE ON THE WEB: Visit 805living.com for more listings and to make quick and easy reservations at many of the restaurants listed here and on the website through Open Table.

Fine Dining

These restaurants have a skilled kitchen team, a lovely dining room, and great service.

UPDATE BELMOND EL ENCANTO 800 Alvarado Place Santa Barbara, 805-845-5800 belmond.com/el-encanto-santa-barbara Entrées $26–$54 Great Views, Romantic

The luxe Belmond El Encanto hotel perches atop its seven-acre hilltop property with sweeping city and ocean views. Settle in on the spacious terrace to experience the plant- and seafood-forward cuisine of executive chef Bruno Lopez in dishes such as king salmon, seared diver scallops, risotto with sea urchin or black truffle, glass noodles, and a grains and greens bowl. Taking influences from various California cultures, the menu showcases the flavors of local artisanal ingredients including fresh seafood, caught daily. Wine offerings from Santa Barbara County and around the globe, beers, and cocktails are among a wide selection of beverage choices. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily, although Sunday lunch is replaced with a bottomless Bellini brunch. Afternoon tea is served Monday through Saturday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. with 24-hour advance notice. In-the-know locals and hotel guests take in the sunset, cocktail in hand, on the terrace.

CA’ DARIO 37 E. Victoria St., Santa Barbara and 38 W. Victoria St., Santa Barbara and 1187 Coast Village Road, Montecito and 250 Storke Road, Unit B, Goleta 805-884-9419 cadariorestaurants.com Italian; Entrées $11–$30

The flagship of Dario Furlati’s growing restaurant empire sits at the corner of Victoria and Anacapa streets somewhat off the Santa Barbara tourist path but decidedly worth the walk. House-made pastas here come with Bolognese or tomatoes, olives, and capers or smoked salmon, peas, tomatoes, and cream. Terra-cotta-baked chicken, roasted quails with porcini ragout sauce, and fish-of-the-day specials are also available. For faster fare, check out Ca’ Dario Pizzeria Veloce, found inside the Santa Barbara Public Market. People of Goleta, take note: Ca’ Dario Cucina Italiana serves lunch and dinner in a Storke Plaza space decorated with dark woods and white tablecloths. A recently opened Montecito location also serves lunch and dinner.

CAFÉ ZACK 1095 E. Thompson Blvd.

Ventura, 805-643-9445 cafezack.com Global; Entrées $20–$34

It’s appropriate that this hidden gem is set in a charming renovated house, since owner Hector Gomez has been making customers feel at home for the past 20 years. Gracious service and impeccably

With the cozy upscale ambience of an old-fashioned supper club, The Chase Restaurant and Lounge has offered enduring Italian favorites along with American steaks, chops, and seafood, since 1979, proving that the classics never lose their appeal. Sparkling garlands of tiny white lights, white tablecloths, a marble-inlaid bar, tip-top service, and Frank Sinatra in the background set the scene for traditional, satisfying meals.

CELLO RISTORANTE & BAR 2700 Buena Vista Drive Paso Robles, 805-369-2503 allegrettovineyardresort.com/dining.aspx Mediterranean; Entrées $14–$38 Romantic

Located at the luxurious Allegretto Vineyard Resort, Cello features local, seasonal ingredients (some grown on site) in pastas, salads, flatbreads, steaks, and seafood. A serene covered patio near the substantial kitchen garden is a fine place for enjoying breakfast, lunch, small plates, or dinner outdoors. Cello also offers an extensive farm-to-bar cocktail menu and a wine list that includes several otherwise impossible-to-get bottles.

UPDATE COSTA KITCHEN & BAR 1111 E. Cabrillo Blvd.

Santa Barbara, 805-882-1234 costasb.com Cal-Mediterranean; Entrées $21–$42 Ocean Views

The stylish signature restaurant at Mar Monte Hotel across from East Beach offers a seafood-driven menu that incorporates influences from coastal Italy and the eastern Mediterranean. Shareable plates, like Day Boat Fish Crudo, and main dishes, such as Whole Roasted Branzino with green-olive salsa verde and brown-butter kale, take advantage of local ingredients.

Sip a craft cocktail, local beer on tap, or wine from the extensive list, on which Central Coast wines shine.

Dinner is served Wednesday through Sunday.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL WESTLAKE VILLAGE 2 Dole Drive Westlake Village, 818-575-3000 fourseasons.com/westlakevillage/dining

Three dining concepts at this resort offer a variety of options. At Coin & Candor, a breakfast, lunch, and dinner brasserie, original dishes by chef Jesus

COVID-19 restrictions affecting dining options are subject to change, but local restaurants need your support whenever possible.

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Where to Eat Now Medina are driven by the seasonality of ingredients from local purveyors and influenced by his Latin roots.

Onyx shines the spotlight on bright, fresh nigiri sushi and shashimi in offerings like the Hayabusa roll, with yellowtail, shrimp, asparagus, avocado, and creamy ponzu. The American Wagyu beef skirt steak is also a highlight on the well-rounded menu. Prosperous Penny is a sophisticated, comfortable social watering hole pouring inventive cocktails, aged bourbons and whiskeys, and rare spirits. Accompaniments are available from a seasonally driven light-bite menu. For a sip of joe, Stir coffee bar, located off the lobby, is open daily from 6 a.m., offering a grab-and-go menu of baked on-site pastries and savory options along with cold-brewed coffee, juices, gelato, and other treats. Valet parking is $10 with validation; self-parking is free for up to four hours with validation.

IL CORTILE RISTORANTE 608 12th St. Paso Robles, 805-226-0300 ilcortileristorante.com Italian; Entrées $18–$34

Il cortile is Italian for “the courtyard.” At this upscale restaurant at the edge of downtown Paso, the courtyard invites diners to breathe in beautiful evenings. A more intimate experience awaits inside, where diners find what the owners call contemporary Old World styling. Northern and Southern Italian dishes are the heart of executive chef and co-owner Santos MacDonal’s seasonal menu. Along with caldi (hot) and freddi (cold) antipasti, there is a section of the menu dedicated to mozzarella. Pasta, ravioli, and gnocchi have fresh, inspired flavors, hallmarks of being housemade. Secondi (main courses) cover beef, lamb, and seafood; osso bucco is particularly nice. The restaurant has a small bar area and a wine list that raises a glass to California’s Central Coast and Italy.

The new Little Heart Cafecito (Instagram @littleheartcafecitosb) is poised to open in the Santa Barbara Public Market. Billed as the “little brother” to its market neighbor Corazon Cocina, the morning-focused eatery will serve locally roasted Handlebar Coffee, breakfast tacos, and breakfast burritos, and area pastries and desserts to enjoy inside, at the market’s outdoor parklet, or to go.

LES PETITES CANAILLES 1215 Spring St. Paso Robles, 805-296-3754 lpcrestaurant.com French; Entrées $17–$40

Offering a taste of Paris in Paso without the pretense, this buzzing French farm-to-table bistro focuses on sophisticated, modern cuisine in a casual, comfortable setting. Julien Asseo, chef and co-owner with his wife, Courtney, received his culinary education in France and honed his skills at Michelinstarred eateries Restaurant Guy Savoy and Joël Robuchon in Las Vegas and La Fontaine de Mars in France. Following dishes like steak tartare, escargot in puff pastry, steak frites, dayboat scallops, beef cheek Bourguignon, and Le Burger, it’s easy to say oui to crème brûlée or profiteroles for a very French ending.

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UPDATE LUCKY’S 1279 Coast Village Road Montecito, 805-565-7540 luckys-steakhouse.com and 3835 Cross Creek Road, Suite 18 Malibu, 310-317-0099 luckysmalibu.com Steak House; Entrées $16–$69 Saturday & Sunday Brunch

At the Montecito location of this upscale steak house, black-and-white portraits of stars like Elizabeth Taylor, Sammy Davis Jr., Andy Warhol, and Julia Child adorn the walls. The plates and napkins are monogrammed, the patio is tented and heated for year-round enjoyment, and the bar opens an hour before dinner service begins.

Steaks can be dressed with seven different sauces, there are eight versions of potato side dishes, and the onion rings should have their own Facebook fan page.

The Malibu location in the Malibu Country Mart offers the same mouthwatering steaks, chops, seafood, and cocktails, and carries on the black-and-white theme with an eye-catching jazz-themed mural in the dining room.

Seating is also available on the covered and heated outdoor patio. Dinner is served daily in Montecito and Tuesday through Sunday in Malibu. Lunch is offered Monday through Friday in both locations.

MEDITERRANEO 32037 Agoura Road Westlake Village, 818-889-9105 med-rest.com Mediterranean; Entrées $16–$58 Great View, Weekend Brunch

Recently reopened after a major makeover, this favorite of locals and hotel guests retains an elegant yet comfortable vibe. Located on the 17-acre property of the Westlake Village Inn, the all-new design includes an expansive bar for sipping craft cocktails and international wines. Executive chef Lisa Biondi has reimagined the menus to include bright Mediterranean dishes such as salatim, seasonal Israeli salads and spreads like street corn with lemon, yogurt, feta, and a punch of Aleppo pepper, at lunch and dinner. Dinner entrées include old favorites like classic prime steaks and house-made pastas, along with lamb sirloin souvlaki and grilled whole branzino. Weekend brunch options include Benedicts, shakshuka, pancakes, and waffles. Patios offer views of the lake or vineyard.

MOQUECA BRAZILIAN 3550 S. Harbor Blvd., Suite 201 Oxnard, 805-204-0970 and 1610 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Suites I and J Thousand Oaks, 805-230-3585 moquecarestaurant.com Brazilian; Entrées $12–$74

Moqueca specializes in, and is named for, a Brazilian seafood stew typically made with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and coconut milk and served in a handmade, black clay pot known as a capixaba. At dinner, you’ll need friends or a to-go container to help get to the bottom of small and large orders alike (variations include a vegetarian moqueca made with plantains and a particularly luxurious combination of lobster tails and large shrimp). At lunch, smaller moquequinhas are available along with prato feito, which is a combination plate of black beans, rice, and diner’s choice of fried plantains or yucca with fish, shrimp, chicken, or steak.

Feijoada, a stew of black beans, ham hocks, pork ribs, linguica sausage, and bacon, is served only on Sundays.

Beer, wine, and cocktails are available at both locations.

NONNA 951 S. Westlake Blvd., #102 Westlake Village, 805-497-8482 nonna.restaurant Italian; Entrées $18–$45 Great Patio, Romantic

A casually elegant dining room of distressed wood lit with unique light sculptures by artist Timothy J. Ferrie is a beautiful fit for Florence-born and -trained restaurateur Jacopo Falleni. The menu avoids the faddish, instead cutting a culinary swath through the Italian peninsula and islands with tradition-rich dishes that reflect Falleni’s Tuscan upbringing (gnudi with pomodoro sauce), executive chef Pamela Ganci’s Sicilian heritage (arancini), and pasta chef Pamela Ganci’s influences from Bologna (passatelli with peas). Service is engaging and professional, while Falleni himself fills the role of sommelier and designed signature cocktails for the full bar.

OJAI VALLEY INN 905 Country Club Road Ojai, 805-646-1111 ojaivalleyinn.com Various Cuisines Entrées $11–$60; Saturday Buffet Brunch $32, Sunday Bluegrass Brunch $55

The resort’s beautiful setting can be enjoyed by hotel guests and others who simply want to patronize the restaurants. As the fine-dining flagship, Olivella features California-Italian cuisine (see separate listing).

Start the evening with small bites and cocktails in the Wallace Neff Heritage Bar, located in the resort’s original golf clubhouse and named for the architect who set the inn’s Spanish Revival tone. Other dining venues include the tranquil Spa Café in Spa Ojai, where light breakfast, fresh-pressed juices, and spa lunch are served inside or on the poolside terrace.

The Oak is famous for its casual but attentive lunch service on a shaded patio overlooking the 10th hole of the resort’s golf course. It also serves breakfast and dinner and two styles of brunch: buffet on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and bottomless Champagne with live bluegrass music on Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Indigo Pool & Bar offers salads, sandwiches, and adult libations served poolside and in cabanas. The Pixie Café is located at the family-friendly Pixie Pool. Jimmy’s Pub offers a menu of salads, sandwiches, wood-fired pizzas, and entrées plus craft beers and cocktails. (It’s also one of the few restaurants in Ojai to stay open past 10 p.m. on weekends.) Next door, Libbey’s Market is the place to go for a quick sandwich and a scoop of McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams.

OKU 29 E. Cabrillo Blvd.

Santa Barbara, 805-690-1650 okusantabarbara.com Asian Fusion; Entrées $16–$38

This sleek, contemporary Asian spot across from the beach boasts spectacular ocean and Stearns Wharf views and a lively atmosphere. The first-floor dining room is anchored by a cocktail bar on one side and sushi bar on the other, with an outdoor patio. Upstairs, a dining room with a cocktail bar opens to a roomy patio with an outdoor fireplace and sofas. Menu favorites include Wagyu steak, Miso Yuzu Black Cod, and Crispy Korean Cauliflower.

Sip craft cocktails, local draft beer, sake, or a selection from the well-curated wine list spotlighting Santa Barbara County wineries. The restaurant is open daily for lunch, dinner, and happy hour.

PACIFIC BY NORU 394 E. Main St., Suite B Ventura, 805-205-9618 pacificbynoru.com New American; Entrées $10–$29

This star serves innovative coastal fare in an upscale yet laid-back setting that includes a lovely covered patio. Housed in the 1924 Beaux Arts–style Bank of Italy building on Ventura’s buzzing main drag, it’s a locals’ go-to for dinner and happy hour (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.). The menu changes seasonally, but chef

Ren Weigang and co-owner James Norton serve up recurring favorites like sake-glazed salmon, hamachi sashimi, braised short rib, chicken katsu sliders, and Wagyu Bavette Bulgogi with chimichurri. Sip an inventive cocktail or local wine or beer.

tomahawk. Pork chop, lamb, and fresh seafood dishes are also on the menu.

The same high standards applly to the beverage program, which features a locally focused wine list and inventive cocktails. A separate menu is devoted exclusively to martinis.

ROSEWOOD MIRAMAR BEACH 1759 South Jameson Lane Montecito, 805-900-8388 rosewoodhotels.com/en/ miramar-beach-montecito Californian and Italian Entrées $19–$55 Great Views, Saturday and Sunday Brunch

TIERRA SUR RESTAURANT AT HERZOG WINE CELLARS 3201 Camino del Sol Oxnard, 805-983-1560 tierrasuratherzog.com New American; Entrées $16–$144 (for 32-ounce rib eye for two), Buffet Brunch $65 Sunday Brunch

Set in a spectacular seaside location, this luxury beachside resort’s seven distinctive restaurants and bars are open to the general public as well as hotel guests. Executive chef Massimo Falsini oversees the dining destinations, which emphasize locally and sustainably sourced ingredients.

Caruso’s, the signature oceanfront eatery, is open daily for dinner and features alfresco seating over the sand in addition to a stylish dining room outfitted with deep blue leather booths.

Menu highlights include starters such as hand-pulled burrata as well as Baja kampachi crudo, house-made pastas including the chef’s signature carbonara, uni tagliolini, and main courses such as pan-roasted petrale sole and grass-fed Watkins Ranch beef fillet. Local and international wines and traditional handcrafted signature cocktails are also offered.

UPDATE SAN YSIDRO RANCH 900 San Ysidro Lane Santa Barbara, 805-565-1720 sanysidroranch.com American; Entrées $48–$90, Sunday Brunch $95 Great View, Romantic, Sunday Brunch

This historic resort’s Stonehouse restaurant is helmed by executive chef Matthew Johnson. Set upstairs inside a 19th-century citrus-packing house, it boasts an inviting dining room with fireplaces and a sheltered terrace with an ocean view. The lunch menu offers dishes like Crispy Halibut Tacos, while dinner mains include options such as Steak Diane, prepared in the classic style and flambéed tableside.

Sip from the renowned wine cellar’s 12,000 bottles of varietals from around the globe. Sunday brunch includes starters, entrées, desserts, and Champagnes from Mumm.

NEW SEAR STEAKHOUSE 478 4th Place Solvang, 805-245-9564 searsteakhouse.com Steakhouse; Entrées $26–$125

Living up to its name, this restaurant and bar from owners Demetrios and Karen Loizides, owners of K’Syrah Catering and Events, serves up expertly prepared steaks and sides. A seasonal menu includes ingredients sourced from the Loizides family’s Santa Ynez Valley organic farm. Steaks range from a filet mignon center cut to a shareable

Tucked inside Herzog’s winery and tasting room, Tierra Sur specializes in wine-friendly meals made with careful attention to detail. Executive chef Gabe Garcia maintains a local, seasonal vibe at lunch and dinner.

Marinated olives and lamb bacon are made in-house. Tapas feature Wagyu sliders and a Margherita pizza with basil-cashew cheese. Watch carefully, and you may see your bone-in rib eye for two prepared on the patio’s wood-burning grill before it is served with fried kale and roasted potatoes.

Desserts include frozen custards, vanilla-spiced doughnuts, and a showstopping Baked Alaska. Surrounded by the coppery glow of the walls and the burnished-wood wine rack that frames the kitchen pass-through, diners may forget they’re at a kosher restaurant in an Oxnard industrial park. The restaurant is closed on Fridays and Saturdays in observance of the Sabbath. Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. is served buffet style, with carving and omelet stations and weekly specials inspired by ingredients from local farms.

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TRA DI NOI RISTORANTE 3835 Cross Creek Road, Suite 8A Malibu, 310-456-0169 tradinoimalibu.com Italian; Entrées $18–$36, Market Price for Some Seafood Sunday Brunch

Even though locals know what they want without opening a menu, the kitchen at this restaurant in the Malibu Country Mart can still impress the rest of us with its handmade pastas, shaved truffles, grass-fed beef, local olive oil, and salads made with produce from Malibu’s Thorn Family Farm. The spaghetti carbonara manages to be both low fat and delicious, and the seasonal specials are a treat. The well-curated wine list matches the food and offers prime selections for sipping on the patio.

TUSCANY IL RISTORANTE 968 S. Westlake Blvd.

Westlake Village, 805-495-2768 tuscany-restaurant.com Italian; Entrées $18–$32 Romantic

Village dwellers pack this beautiful space for its warm, friendly service and topnotch food. The menu is small, but the nightly specials are worth investigating.

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Where to Eat Now their neighborhood boîte. Others come just for special occasions. The lobster and shrimp martini salad has hearts of palm, avocado, and pink grapefruit segments; the baby greens salad has shaved fennel and toasted pine nuts; the whole Dover sole is topped with a lemonchervil sauce; and the chicken breast comes under a sun-dried tomato pesto.

UPDATE WATER’S EDGE RESTAURANT AND BAR 1510 Anchors Way Ventura, 805-642-1200 watersedgeventura.com American; Entrées $21–$55 This aptly named bar and grill offers well-prepared plates from land and sea in an elegant setting with harbor views. Starters like chorizo crab cakes, garlic shrimp, and the restaurant’s award-winning New England clam chowder set the stage for main dishes such as seared sesame seed–crusted ahi and braised Szechuan short ribs. Brunch, served every Saturday and Sunday, offers appetizers, egg dishes, beignets, and waffles, as well as burgers, sandwiches, and locally sourced fish. Pets are welcome on the patio. Happy hour is every day from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. (except holidays).

Rocks & Drams (rocksanddrams.com) in Ventura has reopened with a new kitchen and a full liquor license. The owners of the sleek mid-century modern cocktail bar, restaurant, and lounge partner with chefs Adrian Bautista and Mike Garcia of MunchBreak food truck to offer a menu that includes a Chicken Katsu Sandwich, Kobe Beef Burger, and Pork Belly Bao. Sip a house Old Fashioned or Atta Girl Cocktail, or choose from a selection of rare Japanese and American whiskeys. “We are cocktail and spirit nerds who really love our ice, cocktails, whiskey, and agave spirits,” says co-owner Mark Valdivia. Hours are Thursday through Saturday, 6 p.m. to 12 a.m., and Sunday, 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Foodie

Cuisine that shines regardless of decor, service, ambience, or even views.

101 NORTH EATERY & BAR 30760 Russell Ranch Road, Suite D Westlake Village, 805-852-1588 101northeateryandbar.com New American; Entrées $22–$46 Sunday Brunch, Late-night Menu

Award-winning chef and owner Anthony Alaimo delivers seasonal dishes that are big on international flavors along with wine, beer, and signature cocktails. The restaurant’s relaxed, modern setting includes a bar with a large flat-screen TV, a rustic communal table, and an

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outdoor patio. Expect starters like wild albacore kabobs with Calabrian chili tapenade and grilled Spanish octopus with white bean hummus and mains such as a cumin-rubbed lamb rack, Mediterranean sea bass with green romesco, house-made tagliolini pasta with Selva prawns, and wood-fired, thin-crust pizzas. Sandwiches and sides are on the happy hour menu on Tuesdays through Saturdays from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. A late-night menu is offered on Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

BARBAREÑO 205 W. Canon Perdido St. Santa Barbara, 805-963-9591 barbareno.com Californian; Entrées $18–$29

This restaurant highlights ingredients from the Central Coast in menus that feature a few changes monthly.

Head chef Justin Snyder focused on pastry in his previous culinary lives, evident from the carefully composed salads, tartares, and desserts that emerge from the kitchen. Recurring favorites include starters like avocado roulade made with hamachi crudo and coconut-oolong milk, and cheeky Eggamuffins featuring buttermilk blini stacked with Seascape cheese, speck, and shavings of salt-cured egg yolk. Hope Ranch Mussels with fennel and mustard broth and slow-cooked Wagyu tri tip are also available, along with an extensive inventory of local beers and a wine list that recently garnered a Wine Spectator award of excellence.

BASTA 28863 Agoura Road Agoura Hills, 818-865-2019 bastaagoura.com Italian; Entrées $16–$55, Pastas $16–$21

Located in Whizin Market Square, Basta is the real Italian deal, serving authentic scratch-made dishes, including pasta and wood-fired pizzas for lunch and dinner. Helmed by Florence-native chef Saverio Posarelli and wife Devon Wolf, the bustling eatery features a menu of tradition-rich dishes that reflect Posarelli’s Tuscan roots, such as the Tagliatelli With Wild Mushrooms and Black Truffle Sauce, as well as grilled steaks and fresh fish. Other standouts include the Wagyu Beef Burger, Grilled Spanish Octopus Salad, and Basta’s take on ramen, Tagliolini in Brodo.

BELL’S 406 Bell St. Los Alamos, 805-344-4609 bellsrestaurant.com French; Entrées $18–$27

Daisy and Gregory Ryan, alums of Per Se, Thomas Keller’s Michelin-starred New York restaurant, helm this French-inspired bistro in the historic town of Los Alamos.

Located in a building that served as a bank in the early 1900s and as a biker bar later, Bell’s delivers classics like steak tartare, wild Burgundy snails served with bread from Bob’s Well Bread Bakery down the street, and coq au vin. For lunch, try the French dip made with roasted rib eye. Reservations are available through the website or via email to info@bellsrestaurant.com.

BIBI JI 734 State St. Santa Barbara, 805-560-6845 bibijisb.com Indian; $10–$16, Grill $15–$25, Curries $10–$18, Chef’s Tasting $50 per person

A short stroll from Stearns Wharf and the beaches along the Santa Barbara waterfront, Bibi Ji presents an approachable and modern twist on traditional Indian cuisine. The spacious restaurant, designed with a vibrant, eclectic decor, also has a private back patio for dining while taking in the fresh ocean air. Owners Alejandro Medina and James Beard Award–winning sommelier Rajat Parr offer a menu that highlights an abundance of local seafood,

traditional coconut curries, a bounty of fresh regional produce cooked in Indian spices, a Chef’s Tasting menu, and an extensive list of natural wines. The critically acclaimed restaurant was included in The New York Times’ “52 Places to Go in 2019.”

BOAR DOUGH TASTING ROOM 5015 Cornell Road Agoura Hills, 818-889-2387 boardoughtastingroom.com American; Entrées $16–$28 Sunday Brunch

This cozy hidden gem is a perfect spot for dinner or a bite (or two) before or after a movie at the next-door theater. Sip from an international wine list (the friendly owners, Charles and Joanne Bruchez, are happy to help with a selection) while enjoying starters like charcuterie and cheese boards and bacon-wrapped dates with Manchego, fresh salads, and pizzas.

Entrées include sweet and spicy fried chicken breast and crispy pork belly tacos. For a treat try Blueberry Bliss, a tarte flambé showcasing the all-American berries with goat cheese, thyme, and honey. Sunday brunch features omelets and other egg dishes, waffles (banana and Nutella, anyone?), and pizzas like the Mr. Johnstone with marinated salmon (also available at dinner). Happy hour on Wednesdays through Fridays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. offers half-price pizzas and $5 house wines, beers, and sangria.

BOB’S WELL BREAD BAKERY 550 Bell St. Los Alamos, 805-344-3000 and Bob’s Well Bread Bakery at the Ballard Store 2449 Baseline Ave., Ste. 101 Ballard, 805-691-9549 bobswellbread.com European; Pastries and Breads $1.50–$20, Entrées $7–$13

Located in a refurbished 1920s-era service station with its original Douglas fir floors intact, this artisanal bakery is well worth a visit. For the best selection, arrive at 7 a.m. on Thursdays through Mondays, when the doors open and aromatic scones, bagels, kouign-amann, pain au chocolat, and other pastries come out of the ovens. Loaves of naturally leavened, burnished-crust breads follow soon after. Special daily breads include gluten-free Centennial Loaf and pain aux lardons (Saturdays and Sundays). The on‑site café serves breakfast and lunch (think avocado toast tartine, croque monsieur sandwiches, and grilled bread with pâté and onionbacon marmalade) until 3 p.m. Grab-and-go items for DIY picnics include ficelle sandwiches made with French ham, Emmentaler cheese, and housemade butter. Well Bread Wines created by Doug Margerum are available by the glass or bottle.

BOUCHON 9 W. Victoria St. Santa Barbara, 805-730-1160 bouchonsantabarbara.com Wine Country Cuisine; Entrées $26–$38 Romantic

Bouchon celebrates the local, from its carefully curated wine list to the craftspeople overseeing the successful remodeling of the garden patio at the front entrance. Executive chef Greg Murphy follows suit, using farmers market ingredients in dishes like panroasted local white fish with wilted dandelion greens or a soup featuring white carrots from Tutti Frutti Farms. (Murphy’s Foodie Stroll menu includes a tour of the Tuesday farmers market followed by a threecourse meal with wine for $95 per person.) Add the gracious presence of proprietor Mitchell Sjerven and you have the ingredients for the first Santa Barbaraarea restaurant in a decade to earn the AAA Four Diamond award for excellence.

CAFÉ BIZOU 30315 Canwood St., #14 Agoura Hills, 818-991-9560 cafebizou.com French; Entrées $17–$28

Cozy and candlelit, Café Bizou offers French comfort food in an unstuffy atmosphere. It’s known for wellcrafted classics such as traditional bouillabaisse, lobster bisque, escargots persillade, steak au poivre, double truffle pommes frites, along with plats du jour. Also look for grilled fresh fish, steaks, chops, chicken, pastas, and risotto. This is high-end food without the prices to match. A salad added to your dinner is $2 or $3, and wine buffs rejoice at the $2 per bottle corkage fee.

NEW CORK DORK 1125 Lindero Canyon Road, #A2 Thousand Oaks, 818-532-7284 corkdorkwinebar.com Modern American; Entrées $18–$54

At this convivial restaurant and wine bar, guests explore the fruit of the vine in a sophisticated yet unstuffy atmosphere while noshing on dishes from chef Danny Amirian’s imaginative menu. With an emphasis on local ingredients, the menu changes frequently, but expect dishes such as grilled prime hanger steak, housesmoked trout on grilled toast with pickled veggies, truffle fries with a sprinkling of Manchego cheese, and crispy battered cauliflower. Sip from a list of more than 40 wines by the glass, try a curated flight of two-ounce pours, or opt for a local craft beer.

DECKER KITCHEN 4661 Lakeview Canyon Road Westlake Village, 818-735-9577 deckerkitchen.com American; Entrées $16–$42

Known for its upscale food and unpretentious neighborhood-hangout feel, Decker Kitchen is the creation of chef-owner Graham Harris, who keeps the menu fresh and creative. Menu highlights include Harris’ naturally leavened sourdough bread, fresh-from-theoven pizzas, starters such as Feta Mousse Toast with heirloom tomato, and entrées including barbecued pork ribs and seared rib-eye steak. Sip a craft cocktail or small-lot wine and nosh small bites on the patio Thursdays through Saturdays until midnight.

Takeout is available.

NEW E + MON 2805 Agoura Road Westlake Village, 805-371-3693 eplusmon.com Sushi; Entrées $12–$27

Vegetable Stir Fry. Dishes from the Italian wood-burning oven such as Mussels & Clams with a coconut-ginger broth round out the menu. Housed in a historic building, the restaurant has a casual European feel with a lovely outdoor patio where steel drum music (Thursday through Sunday) adds to the ambience.

EMBER RESTAURANT 1200 E. Grand Ave. Arroyo Grande, 805-474-7700 emberwoodfire.com California-Mediterranean; Small Plates $10–$17, Pizzas $18–$20, Entrées $23–$32 Named for the wood fires used to cook the restaurant’s seasonal and farm-fresh dishes, Ember is the project of executive chef Brian Collins, an Arroyo Grande native who shares skills he honed at Chez Panisse in Berkeley and Full of Life Flatbread in Los Alamos with his hometown. The menu, like the beer and wine list, is locally focused, changes monthly, and includes rustic specialties such as crispy kale and house-made fennel sausage pizza, Jidori chicken alongside a wedge of grilled polenta and farmers’ market veggies, and grilled rib eye served over roasted potatoes and topped with a decadent garlic confit and avocado chimichurri.

EMPTY BOWL GOURMET NOODLE BAR 38 W. Victoria St., #109 Santa Barbara, 805-335-2426 emptybowlnoodle.com Thai; Entrées $12–$19

At this bustling Santa Barbara Public Market eatery co-owned by Jerry Lee and Emre Balli, chef and co-owner Nui Pannak turns out authentic regional noodle bowls, specialty small plates, and handmade dumplings inspired by the cuisines of Thailand and Taiwan. Don’t-miss items include Mama’s HandWrapped Jiaozi Potstickers; Northern Thailand Curry Noodle (Khao Soi) soup made with chicken from Shelton’s Poultry; and Hangover Noodle with red jalapeno pepper, Thai chiles, and fresh garlic. Choose a pairing from a selection of wines and beers.

FINCH & FORK 31 W. Carrillo St. Santa Barbara, 805-879-9100 finchandforkrestaurant.com American; Entrées $22–$36 Weekend Brunch

Chef-owner Hidetoshi “Teddy” Seike, a restaurateur who was raised in Japan, joins forces with head chef Koji Miyamoto, whose cuisine has earned Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition, at this stylish eatery in the Westlake Commons. They offer a creative lunch and dinner menu of sushi, sashimi, bao (steamed buns), and Asian salads that spotlight seasonal ingredients.

Look for signature rolls such as the E + Mon Crunch Roll, featuring spicy tuna and shrimp tempura with chive mayo, avocado, sesame, sweet soy, cucumber, and citrus sauce. Premium sake, Japanese craft beer, and California wines are the perfect sips.

Located in the Kimpton Canary Hotel, the restaurant has its own entrance at Chapala and Carrillo streets.

The vibe in the dining room is sophisticated but comfortable, words that also describe the locally sourced menu by executive chef Peter Cham, a Santa Barbara native. Creative starters, flatbread, salads, and entrées change with the seasons for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. The latter, served from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, even has its own cocktail menu. The daily specials menu offers buttermilk fried chicken on Tuesdays and cioppino every Thursday. Happy hour from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Mondays through Fridays includes drinks starting at $5 and snacks starting at $3. Go ahead and splurge on the $8 harissa buffalo wings, served with pickled celery and crumbled Point Reyes blue cheese.

EMBERMILL 1031 State St. Santa Barbara, 805-456-1212 embermillsb.com Caribbean/Californian Entrées $21–$32

UPDATE FIRST & OAK 409 First St. Solvang, 805-688-1703 firstandoak.com Modern European; Five-Course Tasting Menu $85 per guest; À La Carte Entrées $29–$48

When chef Harold Welch opened his restaurant, foodies who knew him from his stints at restaurants including Santa Barbara’s now-closed Citronelle and his World Cuisine Express catering company leaped for joy. The Barbados-born chef offers lunch and dinner with weekly specials and favorites such as Classic Jerk Chicken, Barbados Fried Red Snapper, and Curried Tempeh &

This charming eatery at the Mirabelle Inn was recognized with the Plate designation in the Michelin Guide California 2019. Chef Javier Ramirez combines local ingredients with classical techniques for his seasonal five-course tasting menu, offered in addition to the à la carte menu. Look for dishes such as Roasted Cauliflower with truffle and chive

The new Loru’s Cafe (loruscafe.com) at the Camarillo Premium Outlets serves American favorites with a California twist for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Jose Lopez, who owns the eatery with his brother Armando, offers a menu of satisfying mainstays, such as Chorizo Eggs Benedict for breakfast and Rib Eye Steak and Shrimp for dinner. A selection of sandwiches, burgers, and salads rounds out the roster. Seating is inside or outdoors on the heated patio. vinaigrette, Kimchi Cracklings, miso-marinated duck breast, seasonal risotto, house-made pasta, local wild-caught seafood, and 28-day aged prime New York steak. A well-curated wine list includes international and Central Coast bottlings and interesting varietals.

FLOR DE MAIZ 29 E. Cabrillo Blvd.

Santa Barbara, 805-869-6559 flordemaizsb.com Mexican; Entrées $14–$28

Restaurateur Carlos Luna and the team behind the Los Agaves restaurants and Santa Barbara’s Santo Mezcal delivers Oaxacan cuisine to the Santa Barbara waterfront at this rustic yet refined eatery. Lunch, dinner, and happy hour seating with ocean views is available inside or outside on two patios, one of which features a firepit. The menu is a combination of dishes that showcase traditional moles (grilled mahi-mahi with mole verde, for example) and contemporary Mexican plates.

Innovative cocktails complement the food and are also perfect for sipping after dinner on the patio.

FULL OF LIFE FLATBREAD 225 Bell St. Los Alamos, 805-344-4400 fulloflifefoods.com Californian; Flatbreads and Entrées $9–$27

Opened in 2003, this down-to-earth gem has become a foodie destination. Dinner is served on Thursdays through Sundays, with lunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Owner Clark Staub’s vision rings deliciously true in every bite of the fresh salads, flatbreads, and entrées made with seasonal ingredients from local farmers markets and artisan food producers. For flatbreads, look for the vegetarian Shaman’s Bread with a crunch of New Cuyama pistachios and the Nitrate-Free Pepperoni and Peppers. Diners who sit at the bar can order food there, too, and seating is available outside.

THE HATCH ROTISSERIE & BAR 835 13th St. Paso Robles, 805-221-5727 hatchpasorobles.com American; Entrées $18–$35

Housed in a historic brick-walled building, this popular comfort food venue is also known for its well-made craft cocktails and friendly service. A lively atmosphere prevails as locals and visitors mingle, sharing the Hot Skillet Cornbread or, when in season, a steamed and grilled Castroville Artichoke while perusing the menu. Though the offerings change seasonally, the wood-fired Rotisserie Chicken is a mainstay, while it lasts. Daily specials include Fried Chicken on Monday and Tuesday, served with house-made hot sauce, WINTER 2022 / 805LIVING.COM

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Where to Eat Now black-pepper honey, and smoked-bacon potato salad.

Standout entrées on the simple menu are the Hatch Burger, Seared Salmon, and Beef Short Rib. For dessert, don’t miss the individual-sized pies. The Hatch opens nightly at 4:30 p.m.

HELENA AVENUE BAKERY 131 Anacapa St., Suite C Santa Barbara, 805-880-3383 helenaavenuebakery.com Baked Goods, California-Eclectic Entrées $4–$14

The artisanal bakery and café is brought to you by the masterminds behind The Lark, Lucky Penny, and Loquita in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone. The address says Anacapa Street, but walk in from Helena Avenue for the quickest access to Dart Coffee drinks and croissants, scones, cookies, and other pastries made with seasonal ingredients. Open daily, the bakery serves breakfast and lunch. Morning meal offerings include dishes like Green Eggs & Ham made with spicy green harissa and grits topped with a fried egg. The lunch menu features salads and sandwiches, plus specials like Nashville Hot Chicken served with house-made pickles. The bakery’s rustic patio is shared by its neighbor, the Santa Barbara Wine Collective, which offers curated tasting flights and wines by the glass and bottle.

XO Santa Barbara (xosantabarbara. com), a new burger-based pop‑up, is now open in the Funk Zone in the former Tyger Tyger space.

Operated by Acme Hospitality, the eatery offers a changing menu that includes smash burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, and fries with a selection of dipping sauces (try the garlic aioli). Grab your sandwich to go and hit the beach. Check the website for current operating hours.

HOTEL CALIFORNIAN 36 State St. Santa Barbara, 805-882-0100 thehotelcalifornian.com/santa_barbara_ restaurants/ Eclectic; Small Plates $12–$19

Built on the grounds of the original Hotel Californian less than a block from Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara’s newest resort pays careful attention to all the luxurious details while retaining a casual yet elegant vibe. Its dining options are equally skilled.

Blackbird, a cocktail bar located on the ground floor of the hotel, features lounge-style seating, a creative menu of small plates from executive chef Travis Watson, and inventive cocktails by mixologist Devon Espinosa in addition to local wines and craft beer. (Fans of Alfred Hitchcock will get a kick out of his photo in the dining room.) Located in a separate building from Blackbird, Goat Tree is an order-atthe-counter café with its own patio and, in the dining room, windows with a view of the kitchen. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with grab-and-go options for impromptu picnics.

HOTEL SAN LUIS OBISPO 877 Palm St. San Luis Obispo, 805-235-0700 hotel-slo.com Various Cuisines; Entrées $13–$46

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Chef Ryan Fancher, who brings a culinary pedigree that includes a stint at Napa Valley’s French Laundry, oversees the dining options at this modern urban resort, which has a playful vibe. A contemporary spin on a classic steak house, Ox + Anchor sets an elegant yet approachable tone for dinner. Large sliding glass walls in the stylish dining room open to a covered alfresco terrace. In addition to signature steaks and seafood, the menu features shared plates like Crispy Crab Cake and Goat Cheese Croquettes. Central Coast wines take the stage on the thoughtfully curated wine list. The bright, casual Piadina offers a fresh California take on Italian cuisine based around the wood-fired oven for all-day service. Adult libations and light bites are served at The Rooftop Terrace and High Bar amid lush planted greenery and a bocce court with views of the rolling hills.

UPDATE INDUSTRIAL EATS 181 Industrial Way Buellton, 805-688-8807 industrialeats.com New American; Entrées $10–$18

Part restaurant, part butcher shop, and part takeout, this popular spot is hard to miss—just look for the colorful mural with floating sausages and the retro neon “EATS” sign in front. Inside, you’ll find locally sourced dishes by owner and executive chef Jeff Olsson. The frequently changing menu features an array of wood-fired pizzas, such as rosemary with Parmesan or skirt steak, tomatillo, and queso fresco (a soft, mild, white Mexican cheese). Small plates include chicken liver with guanciale (Italian cured pork), while the sandwich list offers selections like the Crispy Pork Banh Mi. Local wine and beer options are on tap. Check out the deli case for imported cheeses, house-cured meats, and other delicacies.

NEW LA PALOMA CAFÉ 702 Anacapa St. Santa Barbara, 805-966-7029 lapalomasb.com Californian/Mexican/Spanish; Entrées $21–$30 Weekend Brunch

This neighborhood favorite occupies a historic building and a special place in the hearts of locals.

The original La Paloma Café was open from 1940 until 1983; for the next 37 years it was Paradise Café. Now owned by Acme Hospitality, the restaurant offers a creative menu focused on oakgrilled meats and fish, along with seasonal produce.

Chef Jeremy Tummel melds Spanish and Mexican influences in dishes such as Santa Barbara Mission Chicken with apple-and–pink peppercorn sauce and Santa Maria–Style Snake River Farm Wagyu Tri Tip. Sip a specialty margarita, local wine, or beer.

Seating is offered on a two-level outdoor patio or inside the casual dining room. Dinner is served Wednesday through Sunday; Saturday and Sunday brunch is from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

THE LARK 131 Anacapa St. Santa Barbara, 805-284-0370 thelarksb.com New American; Entrées $18–$42

Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone takes flight with The Lark, named for the Pullman train that once made overnight runs between Los Angeles and San Francisco. The past is present in the restaurant’s setting, a former fish market remodeled to include exposed brick walls, subway tile, communal tables, and private booths fashioned from church pews. As culinary conductor, executive chef Jason Paluska oversees a thoroughly modern menu that highlights local ingredients. West Coast oysters with Goleta caviar lime are popular starters to shared plates of roasted chicken with green peppercorn gastrique, depending on the season. Craft brews, wines by the glass, cocktails, and mocktails extend the artisanal spirit into the bar.

LIDO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 2727 Shell Beach Road Pismo Beach, 805-773-8900 thedolphinbay.com/lido Californian; Entrées $16–$58 Daily Brunch, Great View

Chef Richard Pfaff brings his eye for fresh and local ingredients to a menu that echoes the creativity displayed by the art glass in Lido’s dining room. Appetizers include oysters with pink peppercorn mignonette and beef carpaccio with dijon aioli. Entrées include pasta carbonara, house-made burgers, and a generous rib eye with herbed porcini butter. The Chef’s Tasting Menu offers five courses for $75 ($100 with wine pairings). A daily affair, brunch from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. features a three-course plated option with bottomless mimosas as well as à la carte dishes.

LITTLE DOM’S SEAFOOD 686 Linden Ave. Carpinteria, 805-749-7400 ldseafood.com Seafood, Italian; Entrées $23–$28, Pizza $14–$19 Open for dinner, Little Dom’s is the latest culinary venture from Los Angeles restaurateur Warner Ebbink and executive chef Brandon Boudet. Leather booths, a restored wooden bar, and a raw bar create a comfortable old-school ambience. The seafood-forward menu focuses on local fish and includes pizzas from the wood-burning oven, handmade pastas, and Italian classics like chicken Parmesan. Guests get things started with appetizers like chilled, Creolestyle, boiled shrimp and Santa Barbara live uni, and sip local wines, craft beers, and classic cocktails.

LOQUITA 202 State St. Santa Barbara, 805-880-3380 loquitasb.com Modern Spanish; Entrées $19–$42 Great Patio

Loquita is Spanish slang for a wild, fun-loving girl, but this eatery’s menu and food are seriously irreproachable. Executive chef Peter Lee sources the finest meat, fish, cheese, and produce to create festive, communal, à la carte meals, including tapas, pintxos (small bites typically pierced with a toothpick), and signature paella dishes. Drinks autentico include sangria and Spanish-style gin and tonics. Enjoy the spacious patio with two inviting fireplaces, or try the small-bites bar named, naturally, Poquita.

MAD & VIN 1576 Mission Drive Solvang, 805-688-3121 thelandsby.com Eclectic; Entrées $16–$38 Sunday Brunch

This restaurant located inside The Landsby hotel is named for the Danish words for “food” and “wine.” You won’t find a single aebleskiver in the sleek but comfy dining room, but Mad & Vin still pays homage to Solvang’s heritage with a Nordic Caesar salad of local greens, sautéed shrimp, fried sourdough croutons, and dill-caraway Caesar dressing. At dinner, the lamb porterhouse with mint-pesto yogurt and seafood hot pot, paired with selections from the primarily Santa Barbara County wine list, are not to be missed. The newly expanded Scandinavian-chic bar (open until midnight Fridays and Saturdays) and lounge area with patio seating is a great place to enjoy Sunday brunch, lunch, or happy hour daily from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

MADE IN ITALY BISTRO BY ANTONIO SESSA 3825 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Unit F Westlake Village, 805-370-8667 madeinitalybistro.com

Italian; Entrées & Pizzas $16–$27

Chef-owner Antonio Sessa serves up warm hospitality and authentic southern Italian cuisine at this bustling bistro. Order at the counter, then dig into Neapolitan-style pizzas from the Italian woodfired pizza oven, house-made pastas, fresh insalate, and main dishes from family recipes. Try Sessa’s handmade cavatelli ricotta pasta with his nonna’s Bolognese. At lunch, you can’t go wrong with panini such as the braised brisket, veggie, or turkey and pancetta with house-made tomato jam. Lunch and dinner are served every day except Sunday.

MOODY ROOSTER 2891 Agoura Road Westlake Village, 805-370-3131 moodyroosterwlv.com New American; Entrées $13–$30

Born in the Year of the Rooster, owner-chef Collin Crannell cooks whatever he feels like putting on the menu each day at this foodie version of a neighborhood café located in a Westlake Village shopping center. That’s what’s in the name. On the plate, Crannell—formerly the executive chef at The Lobster in Santa Monica—focuses on from-scratch fare showcasing local, seasonal produce, seafood, and proteins at lunch and dinner. Trademark dishes include crispy gnocchi with roasted cherry tomatoes, Parmesan fondue, and a swirl of aged balsamic, as well as a half chicken with roasted garlic and butternut squash. Wine and craft beers are available (ask co-owner Vicki Crannell for pairing suggestions).

MOUTHFUL EATERY 2626 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd.

Thousand Oaks, 805-777-9222 mouthfuleatery.com Peruvian, Californian; Entrées $9–$14 Kid-Friendly

Don’t let the multicolored chalkboard menu or the solar-powered toy pigs decorating the dining room fool you: This order-at-the-counter café may specialize in salads, sandwiches, and what are called “powerbowls” in a fun, casual atmosphere, but chef and co-owner Luis Sanchez is serious about the food—witness Mouthful’s inclusion on Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in the U.S. for 2015. La Sarita, a sandwich of house-roasted pork shoulder served with fried sweet potatoes and pickled red onions, gets its heat from an aioli made with aji amarillo, a pepper from Sanchez’s native Peru.

Additions at dinner might include malbec-braised short ribs on polenta one night and savory chicken stew called aji de gallina the next. Desserts include alfajores, delicate shortbread cookies filled with salted caramel. The Foodies in Training children’s menu includes a turkey slider with fruit, yucca fries, and a drink, all for $6.

NELLA KITCHEN & BAR 2860 Grand Ave. Los Olivos, 805-686-1359 nellakitchen.com California-Italian; Entrées $36–$44, Pinsas $14–$35, Small Plates $14–$26

The team behind S.Y. Kitchen in Santa Ynez operates this rustic-chic restaurant and bar located inside the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn. Executive chef and partner Luca Crestanelli oversees the offerings, favoring refined comfort food made with farm-fresh ingredients. The evolving menu features selections of cheeses and charcuterie, small plates, and main courses like Wagyu Short Ribs. Crispy Roman-style pinsa (which has a lower gluten index than pizza) is perfect for nibbling with specialty cocktails, local beers, and Italian drafts, or a glass from the wine list that spotlights Santa Barbara County vintages, including selections from Fess Parker Winery. Warm woods and earth tones make the dining room inviting, and the outdoor patio seating is divine.

NOI DUE TRATTORIA 29020 Agoura Road Agoura Hills, 818-852-7090 noiduetrattoria.com Italian; Entrées $28–$42; Pastas $15–$24

With a hospitality background that includes stints at Le Cirque in New York and Toscana in Brentwood, owner Antonio De Cicco joins forces with chef Daniele Gallo, who grew up with De Cicco outside Naples, Italy, to head up this warm, sophisticated yet unstuffy eatery. Enduring Italian favorites include pastas such as Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe, Eggplant Parmigiana, grilled filet mignon, and branzino. Tiramisu made tableside is a special treat. The wine list offers Californian and Italian labels, some priced at $10 a glass during happy hour.

OJAI RÔTIE 469 E. Ojai Ave. Ojai, 805-798-9227 ojairotie.com Lebanese-French; Entrées $14–$30

Strung with white lights, the charming, tree-shaded patio at this casual counter-service spot makes every meal feel like a picnic. Serving dinner and weekend lunch, owners and veteran chefs Claud Mann and Lorenzo “Larry” Nicola focus on Lebanese-Frenchstyle free-range rotisserie chicken, fresh-baked organic sourdough bread, and farmers’ market-driven side dishes, such as caramelized cauliflower and tabbouleh salad. Other offerings include chicken sandwiches, inventive salads, and house-made chocolate-chunk cookies and brownies. At the Winebox, a small stand-alone structure, patrons can order beer and wine from a wine list curated by sommelier Emily Johnston, which highlights vintages from Santa Barbara, Ojai, and selected regions in France.

UPDATE OLIO E LIMONE RISTORANTE, OLIO BOTTEGA AND OLIO PIZZERIA 11 W. Victoria St., Suites 17-18, and Suite 21 Santa Barbara, 805-899-2699 olicucina.com Italian; Restaurant Entrées $20–$42, Bottega $4–$12, Pizzeria $6–$28

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mwallen@farmersagent.com farmersagent.com/mwallen 32107 Lindero Canyon Road, Suite #124 | Westlake Village

Husband-and-wife owners Alberto Morello and Elaine Andersen Morello preside over these three Italian venues. At the ristorante, salads, seafood, chicken, and chops are served alongside house-made pastas and sauces. Olio Bottega, a casual breakfast, lunch, snack, and retail spot next door, serves egg dishes, Italian croissants, and espresso drinks for breakfast and hot Italian street food specialties and panini on house-made focaccia for lunch. Shop from a selection of Italian specialty products, cocktails, beer, and wine to take home. At the pizzeria, enjoy chicken, fish, and beef entrées, pasta, antipasti, salads, and panini.

Pizzas are topped with gourmet ingredients, such as sautéed rapini, spicy salami, and black truffles.

OLIVELLA 905 Country Club Road Ojai, 805-646-1111 ojaivalleyinn.com California-Italian; Entrées $37–$65 (a threecourse experience is $90 or $150 with wine pairings; four-course experience is $110 or $180 with wine pairings) Great Views, Romantic

This fine-dining restaurant at Ojai Valley Inn features California cuisine with an Italian twist. From chef de cuisine Andrew Foskey’s menus come beautifully plated dishes like Kabocha Squash Ravioli, Tails & Trotters Farm Tenderloin of Pork, and Wild Pacific Sea Bass. Save room for the Citrus Olive Oil Cake or Crème Fraîche Panna Cotta, just two of executive pastry chef Joel Gonzalez’s creative dessert options. Dining spaces include a private wine room as well as a veranda overlooking the first and final holes of the property’s world-class golf course.

The restaurant also hosts winemaker dinners.

Patio Cushions Mobile Service Easy, Convenient, Affordable

805 796 3112 Serving Ventura and Santa Barbara counties

p a t iopr i nc e s s de s i g n .c om WINTER 2022 / 805LIVING.COM

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Where to Eat Now PARADISE PANTRY 218 and 222 E. Main St. Ventura, 805-641-9440 paradisepantry.com Rustic; Entrées $9–$22 Sunday Brunch

This combination café, wine shop, and cheese store occupies adjoining storefronts in Ventura’s historic downtown. Both spaces feature original brick walls and delightfully creaky wood floors. While 218 E. Main St. is devoted to wine sales and cheese and charcuterie displays, 222 offers wine tasting and soups, salads, cheese plates, and pâté samplers.

Panini-style sandwiches include the Italiano, packed with arugula and truffle cheese and wrapped in prosciutto. (That’s right: The meat is on the outside.) Named for chef and co-owner Kelly Briglio, Kel’s Killer Mac is made with a new over-the-top combination of ingredients each week. (Gluten-free options are available.) Typically scheduled once a month, Sunday brunch features such dishes as Kel’s crab cakes with Meyer lemon crème fraîche, and French toast made with cinnamon brioche. Join the email list for news of upcoming pop-up appearances by visiting chefs and winemakers.

The new M on High Restaurant (monhigh.com) in Moorpark offers contemporary American cuisine in an industrial-style setting that draws inspiration from the nearby rail station. The family-friendly eatery is the creation of Danny Margolis, who also owns Command Performance Catering. Chef Maya Chrestensen serves up appetizers such as Dirty Dog Flatbread, made with Wagyu hotdog, and entrees like the Tomahawk Pork Chop with wild mushroom gravy and Chilean Sea Bass with forbidden black rice risotto. Dessert offerings include Pistachio and White Chocolate Bread Pudding with a warm whiskey glaze.

PETIT VALENTIEN 1114 State St. #14 Santa Barbara, 805-966-0222 petitvalentien.com French; Entrées $20–$25 Weekend Ethiopian Brunch

The spirit of a one-stop general store lives on in the historic town of Los Alamos, the northern gateway to the Santa Ynez Valley. The outstanding chef-driven, locally sourced dinner menu from executive chef John Wayne Formica changes frequently but offers dishes like local crudo, grilled octopus, house-made pastas, smoked pork chop, and dry-aged rib-eye steak. Charcuterie and cheese platters are a mainstay. Pair the fare with a signature cocktail, beer, or wine from the well-curated list spotlighting small-scale vintners, which earned Pico “Top 100 Wine Restaurant” recognition from Wine Enthusiast Magazine. The spacious, refurbished building is also the tasting room of Lane Tanner and Will Henry’s Lumen Wines of Santa Maria. Upscale but down home, Pico is keeping destination diners as well as the local cowboys coming back for more.

SAMA SAMA KITCHEN 1208 State St. Santa Barbara, 805-965-4566 samasamakitchen.com at Topa Topa Brewing 345 East Ojai Ave. Ojai, 805-335-4175 topatopa.beer Asian; Shared Plates $11–$42

This hip spot buzzes with guests who come for wellprepared southeast Asian food made with ingredients sourced from local farms. Shareable plates include the signature jidori chicken wings with sweet and spicy tamarind glaze. A recently opened second location resides within Topa Topa Brewing in downtown Ojai, where the beer-friendly menu echoes the bold flavors of the original location but is especially tailored to pair with a pint. Order at the walk-up window and sit indoors or on the street-side patio.

SANTO MEZCAL 119 State St. Santa Barbara, 805-883-3593 santomezcalsb.com Contemporary Mexican; Entrées $15–$26

Located a block from the beach on the edge of the buzzy Funk Zone, this stylish venture from restaurateur Carlos Luna offers a fresh take on Mexican dishes made with local ingredients. The menu celebrates seafood with plates such as Halibut Ceviche and Camarones al Mescal (Mexican shrimp sautéed in a creamy mezcal sauce). Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily. A full bar pours creative craft cocktails and selections from wine and beer lists with local and international labels. Happy hour hums weekdays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

SIX TEST KITCHEN 3075 Blue Rock Road, Unit B Paso Robles, Instagram @six_test_kitchen sixtestkitchen.com Seasonal; 12-Course Tasting Menu $185

Step into this cozy French bistro in La Arcada Plaza for lunch or dinner to feel transported to Paris. Candles glow, glasses clink, and the menu lists such classics as escargot and pan-seared duck breast. But there are also surprises, like the Ethiopian weekend brunch, served from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Sunday supper with a different one-time French menu each week. Sip wines from California or France or local beers on tap. Diners are also served outdoors in the plaza.

Chef-owner Ricky Odbert started out offering his seasonal menus in a garage location, where he had six seats for lucky guests. He now has 12 chef’s-counter seats in this intimate spot in Paso Robles’ Tin City. The unique dining experience is a 12-course tasting menu that changes with the seasons and is driven by the bounty of local farms. Expect creative dishes such as raw dry-aged California yellowtail, seasoned with Meyer lemon in plum, cucumber, and gazpacho consommé.

A wine pairing option features local and imported wines, and there is a short by-the-glass and bottle list.

The restaurant is open for dinner Wednesday through Saturday; reservation tickets are available online.

PICO AT THE LOS ALAMOS GENERAL STORE 458 Bell St. Los Alamos, 805-344-1122 picolosalamos.com New American; Shared Plates & Entrées $9–$46 Live Music

THE SPOON TRADE 295 West Grand Ave. Grover Beach, 805-904-6773 thespoontrade.com American; Entrées $15–$32 Great Patio, Sunday Brunch

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The Spoon Trade serves what chef Jacob Town calls “elevated comfort food” in a bright and comfortable neighborhood hangout. Classic dishes (think: fried chicken, pasta, and upside-down cakes) are reimagined with of-the-moment flavors and local ingredients alongside a progressive beer and wine list.

S.Y. KITCHEN 1110 Faraday St. Santa Ynez, 805-691-9794 sykitchen.com Italian; Entrées $20–$38

Located on a quiet side street in Santa Ynez, this cozy spot is an oasis of craft cocktails and rustic Italian fare in wine and tri-tip country. Executive chef Luca Crestanelli lets his native Italian roots show in house-made pastas such as wild mushroom pappardelle, salmon puttanesca, and a don’t-miss grilled globe-artichoke appetizer. With its firepits and padded lounge seating, The Courtyard is a great place to settle in for pre-dinner cocktails and glasses of local wine or to stay for the whole meal. A lunch menu of salads, pastas, and oak-grilled meats and seafood is served daily.

THOMAS HILL ORGANICS 1313 Park St. Paso Robles, 805-226-5888 thomashillorganics.com Wine Country Cuisine; Entrées $15–$41 Sunday Brunch

At this chic but casual restaurant in downtown Paso Robles, executive chef Libry Darusman builds on the vision of owner and founding chef Debbie Thomas by turning ingredients from local purveyors into elegant, satisfying fare at lunch, brunch, and dinner. (Why, yes, those are Loo Loo Farms tomatoes in the pickled stone fruit and house ricotta salad.) Wine, beer, and ciders from the region are also featured, adding to the restaurant’s farm-to-table bona fides. A new dessert bar served in the front bar and lounge area offers a selection of treats crafted both in-house and by local purveyors. Try Darusman’s spin on s’mores.

TRE LUNE 1151 Coast Village Road Montecito, 805-969-2646 trelunesb.com Italian; Entrées $18–$37

Tre Lune, or “three moons,” is part of the Montesano Group, which owns Lucky’s in Montecito and Joe’s in Santa Barbara—and it shows. The walls are dressed in black-and-white photos of celebrities from yesteryear, the floors are Old World wood, and the tables are covered in blush-colored linen. Teeny tiny chairs mounted high on the wall bear brass plates engraved with the names of regular patrons.

A ring-shaped, rolled pizza-bread appetizer is stuffed with smoked mozzarella and braised radicchio. It’s crispy outside and delicious inside. Pizzas from the stone oven can be topped with roasted eggplant, spicy sausage, or mushrooms and truffle oil. The wide selection of pastas are available in half or full portions. Veal scaloppine, rack of lamb, chicken Marsala, and even a cheeseburger round out the menu and support the extensive Italian wine list.

WINE CASK 813 Anacapa St. Santa Barbara, 805-966-9463 winecask.com Wine Country Cuisine Entrées $28–$42; Chef’s tasting menu $75 for five courses, $95 for eight courses

Romantic Founded in 1981, the Wine Cask is pleasing palates with executive chef Jeremy Van Kralingen, a native of Hilo, Hawaii, in the kitchen. Local ingredients still inform dishes at every turn, especially in the tasting

menus that feature Santa Barbara County labels in the optional wine pairings. The regular dinner menu includes Santa Barbara Channel sea bass with gremolata, duck confit with farro and strawberry sofrito, and pan-roasted rib eye with umami potatoes.

Desserts echo the elegant simplicity of the restaurant: Bread pudding with bourbon-salted caramel sauce is a traditional standout, joined by newer options like lemon meringue ice-cream tart and a Nutella cheesecake with pretzel brittle. California wines are the focus of the international wine list.

Good Eats

Not too fancy, not too expensive, and a good experience all around.

BRENT’S DELI 2799 Townsgate Road Westlake Village, 805-557-1882 brentsdeli.com Deli; Entrées $6–$20 Kid-Friendly

For amazingly good Reuben sandwiches on rye bread piled high with pastrami or corned beef, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing, you can’t beat this slick deli. The booths are cushy and roomy, leaving space for your tummy to expand as you down a fourlayer slice of chocolate cake or a plate full of stuffed cabbage rolls. A separate bar also offers the full menu.

The patio out back allows for even more seating. A counter up front expedites take-out orders. Brent’s Deli is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.

THE DAISY 1221 State St. Santa Barbara, 805-845-0188 thedaisyrestaurant.com Californian/Mediterranean Entrées $16–$22 Kid-Friendly

Owned by husband-and-wife team Dominic Shiach and Carmen “Daisy” Deforest, this bright and airy café is known for its top-notch food, casual setting, and good value. Deforest helms the kitchen, offering dishes such as Falafel Plate, Mezze Plate, House-Smoked Brisket Banh Mi, California Lamb & Beef Kofta Meatballs with tzatziki, and Spicy Braised Chickpeas with couscous. All are made with produce from farmers markets and Farm Cart Organics in Carpinteria. Sip from a selection of 16 mostly local wines on tap, selected beers, and kombucha on tap. The café is open for lunch and dinner, and dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio.

FINNEY’S CRAFTHOUSE 982 S. Westlake Blvd., Suite 2 Westlake Village, 805-230-9950 and 494 E Main St., Ventura, 805-628-3312 and 35 State St., Suite A Santa Barbara, 805-845-3100 and 857 Monterey St. San Luis Obispo, 805-439-2556 finneyscrafthouse.com American; Entrées $10–$16 Kid-Friendly

The “craft beer spoken here” neon sign in the dining room doesn’t quite say it all at this casual but polished gastropub owned by Greg Finefrock, an 805 local MORE ON THE WEB: Visit 805living.com for more listings and to make quick and easy reservations at many of the restaurants listed here and on the website through Open Table.

whose childhood nickname inspired the restaurant’s moniker. In addition to the 30 brews on tap, you’ll find craft cocktails, California wines by the glass and bottle, and a fun atmosphere and menu that has something for everyone. With variations in decor between locations (look for the skee-ball machine and photo booth in San Luis Obispo), the menu remains the same. Shareable appetizers include gluten-free buffalo cauliflower tossed in yuzu sauce and chicken-and waffle bites that come with a tangy surprise: Tabasco-braised kale. The house burger is made with a chuck, brisket, and hanger steak patty on a brioche bun (options include gluten-free buns and plant-based Impossible Burger patties). Crispy tacos, salads, and flatbread pizzas are also available.

Seating is first-come, first-served at the copper bar.

JANE 1311 State St. Santa Barbara, 805-962-1311 janesb.com and Jane at The Marketplace 6940 Marketplace Drive Goleta, 805-770-5388 janeatthemarketplace.com Eclectic; Entrées $9–$34

Devoted fans keep coming back for the well-executed main dishes, pastas, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and daily specials at these sister eateries, which are named for owner Margaret Huston’s mother Jane Moody, whose pictures adorn the walls. The Santa Barbara location is open for dinner, offering entrées that range from grilled duck breast and filet mignon to Chicken Picatta and penne with house-made Bolognese sauce.

For dessert, don’t miss the coconut chiffon cake. The Goleta venue is open for lunch and happy hour as well as dinner. The menu there is similar but also includes oak-fired, brick-oven pizzas.

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NEW LIMEÑA PERUVIAN EATERY 2388 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd.

Thousand Oaks, 805-371-1370 limenaeatery.com Peruvian; Entrées $12–$19

For authentic Peruvian specialties served with pride, look no further than this friendly, family-owned café.

Sit in the cheerful dining room or outside on the patio and enjoy entrées such as Polo a la Brasa rotisserie chicken and Lomo Saltado Plate, a traditional beef stir-fry dish. Appetizers include ceviche made with fresh halibut and Peruvian corn and Tamal de Pollo con Salsa Criolla, chicken tamales made in banana leaves and topped with red-onion salad. Sip wine and beer from Peru and Argentina or a pisco sour.

LOVI’S DELICATESSEN 24005 Calabasas Road Calabasas, 818-223-8777 lovisdeli.com Deli; Entrées $11–$30 Kid-Friendly

“Delicatessen” seems like a misnomer for this sharp and sleekly designed modern restaurant and bar. A comprehensive menu offers standard deli fare like triple-deckers, house-made soups, and smoked fish platters but also features contemporary dishes such as Alaskan salmon, Mexican, pasta, and vegetarian specialties, and build-your-own salads with 65-plus ingredients. The restaurant consists of four spacious areas. A bright main dining room is designed with clean lines, earth tones, and stylish riveted steel tables.

Another dining room has a full bar, and the beautiful shaded outdoor patio is a perfect place for Sunday brunch. Most impressive is a private glassed-in dining room that seats 30 and has an equally impressive wine cellar. Fifteen flat-screens are judiciously placed, so they don’t detract from the upscale vibe. Lovi’s is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily and serves breakfast all day. Daily happy hour is from 3 p.m. until closing. Catering and delivery are available.

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Where to Eat Now OYSTER LOFT 175 Pomeroy Ave. Pismo Beach, 805-295-5104 oysterloft.com Seafood; Fresh Oysters $16 per half dozen; Crudo $14–$27; Entrées $21–$47 Great Views

Savvy seafood lovers get their fix at this buzzing ocean-view spot with an outdoor patio. Oysters, such as Fanny Bay and Kumamoto, are delivered fresh daily and other fresh crudo starters include scallop carpaccio and salmon poke tacos.

Preparations change seasonally, but look for panseared Pacific halibut and cioppino, chock-full of sea bass, mussels, prawns, and littleneck clams.

Non-seafood options include hangar steak au poivre and wild mushroom and asparagus risotto.

Go ahead and splurge on the peanut butter– chocolate tower. Happy hour is Mondays through Thursdays (excluding holidays) from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., offering the chef’s choice of oysters on the half-shell with rice-wine mignonette for $1.50 each, $1 off draft beers, and $7 curated wines by the glass. Dinner is served nightly.

Chef Michael Cherney and his wife, Sarah, owners of Solvang’s acclaimed Peasants Feast restaurant, now bring Peasants Deli & Market (peasantsdeli.com) to the Danishstyle town. The deli sandwich menu features locally sourced, artisanal, cured and smoked meats served on custom sesame Vienna rolls from Santa Ynez’s The Baker’s Table bakery. Also featured are Cherney’s pastrami-smoked salmon, house-roasted Kobe beef, and veggie options. Beer and wine are available for takeaway or to enjoy at one of the deli’s limited seating options. In the market, provisions available for purchase include fresh handmade pasta, olive oil and fig balsamic vinegar made for Peasants Deli by local crafter Global Gardens, and dressings, such as the deli’s proprietary Italian variety.

POOKIE’S THAI CUISINE 900 Hampshire Road Westlake Village, 805-381-0094 pookiethai.com Thai; Entrées $7–$13 Kid-Friendly

Downstairs in the Water Court Plaza office complex, owner Pookie creates delicious Thai dishes for lunch and dinner daily. Lunch specials are a steal at $7 to $8 each. She also has a wide selection of interesting salads like the Outrageous Beef Salad with a spicy lime dressing and the proteinrich Yam Yai salad with shrimp, chicken, egg, and peanuts in a sweet-and-sour dressing. Noodle dishes are generously sized and include the classic pad Thai and the interesting Hi Yo Silver with

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fried noodles, shrimp, and bean sprouts. Curries, vegetarian options, and fish dishes (such as the crispy sole with tamarind and chili sauce) give diners lots of great choices not found elsewhere.

PORTA VIA CALABASAS 4799 Commons Way, Suite J Calabasas, 818-746-2400 portaviarestaurants.com Californian; Entrées $19–$42 Weekend Brunch; Great Patio

This neighborhood California bistro and bar in The Commons at Calabasas adds a third location to the popular Beverly Hills and Pacific Palisades eateries. Open daily for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, Porta Via offers an airy, colorful indoor dining room and a spacious patio. The menu spotlights locally sourced produce, meat and poultry, and sustainable seafood. Breakfast and brunch highlights include Huevos Rancheros and Grand Marnier French Toast, and lunch and dinner stars are the Organic Kale & Quinoa Salad, Grilled Ōra King Salmon, and Grilled Skirt Steak.

RUMFISH Y VINO 34 N. Palm Street Ventura, 805-667-9288 rumfishyvinoventura.com Caribbean–Central American Inspired Entrées $13–$27 Sunday Brunch

Rumfish Y Vino brings the taste and feel of the tropics to Ventura. The airy dining room and bar area and roomy outdoor patio with lush plantings and a fireplace puts diners in vacation mode. Begin by nibbling crispy Conch Fritters, Ahi Tuna Crudo, or Peruvian Ceviche. Move on to Caribbean Fish Stew, braised pork tacos on house-made corn tortillas, or vegetarian rice and beans with roasted vegetables.

Sip an inventive cocktail or local beer and wine. The restaurant is open for lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch, and daily happy hour.

THE STONEHAUS 32039 Agoura Road Westlake Village, 818-483-1152 the-stonehaus.com Mediterranean Sandwiches and Platters $10–$17 Dog-Friendly, Great Views, Kid‑Friendly, Romantic

Patterned after an Italian enoteca, the aptly named Stonehaus starts each day as a coffeehouse, serving kale-berry smoothies along with baked goods, wraps, and breakfast sandwiches from Lisa Biondi, executive chef at the adjacent Mediterraneo at the Westlake Village Inn. It switches to wine bar mode in the afternoons and evenings, when the menu includes charcuterie and crostini platters, salads, panini, and desserts. The outdoor pizza oven is fired up nightly (check website for hours).

Wine flights are arranged by regions, varietals, and themes. Patios overlook the waterfall and the working vineyard, which is open for picnicking on Stonehaus fare (check website for information about seasonal tastings and festivals). The picnic tables and bocce ball court are family friendly, and visiting canines get a water fountain of their own near the courtyard fireplace.

TAP THAI 3130 State St. Santa Barbara, 805-682-1114 tapthaicuisine.com Thai; Entrées $12–$18

At this bustling neighborhood eatery, owner Preaw Chamchoi presents a fresh, modern take on the food she grew up eating in Bangkok. Tables and counter seats are filled with groups of friends,

families, and couples digging into mainstay dishes such as Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Drunken Noodles made with flat rice noodles, along with the don’t-miss side dish of Roti (Thai crepes). Drinks include Thai beer, local beer on tap, and sake.

Fun, Fun, Fun

Look to these eateries for festive food, an upbeat atmosphere, and a good time.

ANDRIA’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT & MARKET 1449 Spinnaker Drive Ventura, 805-654-0546 andriasseafood.com Seafood; Entrées $8–$24 Kid-Friendly

No visit to Ventura Harbor—or to Ventura, period—is complete without a stop at Andria’s, a locals’ favorite since 1982. On weekends, the fast-moving line to order can stretch out onto the restaurant’s front patio. Additional seating includes indoor dining rooms decorated with vintage photos and fishing gear, and a protected patio with a view of the docks.

Charbroiled fresh catch of the day dinners come with rice pilaf, bread, and a choice of salads. Some items are available in stir-fry dishes. But deep-fried is the preferred method of preparation for everything from onion rings (served in a towering stack) to halibut and chips, oysters and chips, popcorn shrimp and chips, and, well, you get the idea. The atmosphere is beach casual: Orders are called out by number when ready, and it’s up to diners to gather utensils, tartar sauce, and other fixin’s from a counter near the kitchen. Beer and wine are available. An on-site fish market is open daily.

UPDATE THE ANNEX 550 Collection Blvd.

Oxnard, 805-278-9500 thecollectionrp.com/the_annex Cuisines and prices vary by location Kid-Friendly

Seven restaurants offer as many dining experiences at this public market-style spot in the heart of The Collection at RiverPark. House-roasted coffee, avocado toast, and gluten-free muffins help jumpstart the day at Ragamuffin Coffee Roasters, while The Blend Superfood Bar serves smoothies, juices, and acai bowls made with local berries and honey.

Other order-at-the-counter options include Love Pho, Taqueria el Tapatio, Don Waffly, Burnin’ Mouth, and Silverlake Ramen. The craft-beer bar Bottle & Pint serves local brews and ciders on tap and by the bottle and can; wines are available by the glass.

Fun artwork, inventive communal seating areas, and two retail shops add to the vibe.

BETTINA 1014 Coast Village Road Montecito Country Mart Montecito, 805-770-2383 bettinapizzeria.com Pizza/Italian; Entrées and Pizzas $12–$22

First-timers to Bettina may think they’ve taken a wrong turn and ended up in Italy. At this bustling, cozy neighborhood restaurant patrons sip a Venetian spritz or Negroni and nosh on naturally leavened, Neapolitan-style pizzas dressed up with inventive toppings. Antipasti, entrées such as chicken cacciatore, and fresh salads are also on the menu, which changes seasonally but always includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Lunch and dinner are served daily; online orders are available for pick up.

BOGIES BAR & LOUNGE 32001 Agoura Road Westlake Village, 818-889-2394 bogies-bar.com Californian; Small Plates & Entrées $4–$15 Great Views, Live Music

Surrounded by greenery and water, this bar on the grounds of the Westlake Village Inn is a gorgeous place to get your groove on: Live music is scheduled on weekends. On the patio, wicker chaise lounges are arranged in semi-private groupings around fire pits and a bar counter looks onto the dance floor. Inside, bronze curtains and silver wall sconces shimmer in the mood-setting darkness. (Some areas are available by reservation.) It all adds up to a great backdrop for a menu featuring dishes like Charred Brussels Sprouts with Spanish chorizo and sherry vinegar; Shrimp Al Ajillo, six chili-spiced shrimp in a white wine, lemon, and garlic sauce with a crispy baguette; and Tuna Tartare, sashimi-grade ahi mixed with avocado, cucumber, and scallions and served on little gem lettuce with a white soy-chili dressing.

NEW BURNIN’ MOUTH NASHVILLE HOT CHICKEN 550 Collection Blvd., #180 Oxnard, 805-485-1288 burninmouth.com Hot Chicken Sandwiches; Entrées $13–$14

This casual eatery located inside The Annex Food Hall at The Collection at RiverPark serves up a fresh take on classic Nashville-style hot chicken sandwiches, along with menu items that incorporate the style of sweet and savory Korean fried chicken.

Try the signature Bang Bang chicken sando, served with fries, pickles, coleslaw, and comeback sauce (a mildly spicy mayo). Choose your sandwich spice level to get it just right. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Plenty of outdoor seating is available in The Annex’s common area.

CAFÉ HABANA 3939 Cross Creek Road Malibu, 310-317-0300 cafehabana.com Pan-Latin; Entrées $9–$25 Sunday Brunch

Café Habana isn’t limited to Cuban food or cocktails.

Dishes represent all of Latin culture, from South American ceviches to Mexican grilled corn and huevos rancheros to Cuban pulled-pork sandwiches.

Owner Sean Meenan is an eco-warrior while partner Rande Gerber brings in the celebs and keeps the nightlife hopping. The food is good, the cocktails are great, and the coconut flan is out of this world.

THE CRUISERY 501 State St. Santa Barbara, 805-770-0270 thecruisery.com American Fusion; Entrées $9–$18

This lively brewpub located in the former Santa Barbara Brewing Company space serves top-notch beers from award-winning master brewer Dave “Zambo” Szamborski as well as a satisfying sudsfriendly menu. Not your typical pub grub, offerings include banh mi flatbread, yellowtail crudo, and steak frites, along with sandwiches, tacos, salads, and appetizers like beer-battered green beans. Beer not your jam? Try a craft cocktail with house-made infusions and freshly squeezed juices. Happy hour is Sundays through Fridays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. with deals on cocktails, beers, and bites.

COVID-19 restrictions affecting dining options are subject to change, but local restaurants need your support whenever possible.

FLOUR HOUSE 690 Higuera St. San Luis Obispo, 805-544-5282 flourhouseslo.com Italian; Starters $5–$21, Pizzas $15–$20, Pastas $19–$28

With a sleek interior, dynamic menu, and portrait of Sophia Loren, Flour House isn’t just a pizzeria: It’s a love song to Italy. Co-owner and Salerno native Alberto Russo works magic with imported flour and a Stefano Ferrara pizza oven, the gold standard for traditional pizza napolitana. During Meter Mondays, pizzas are available in different sizes depending on the number in your party: a half-meter for four people includes a choice of three tastings ($28), while a full meter serves eight with a choice of six tastings ($50). Don’t miss Russo’s house-made pastas or the weekday-night aperitivo hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., featuring cocktails such as the classic Negroni and Aperol Spritz as well as beer and wine and appetizers from $4 to $6.

HITCHING POST II 406 E. Highway 246 Buellton, 805-688-0676 hitchingpost2.com Steak House; Entrées $26–$56

A fan favorite since its star turn in the 2004 movie Sideways, Hitching Post II radiates a western-style steak-house feel with down-home service and hearty portions of Santa Maria–style barbecue. In addition to oak-grilled steaks, the menu features ribs, quail, turkey, duck, and seafood. Sip from the Wine Spectator award-winning wine list that includes a selection of Hitching Post labels.

LOS OLIVOS WINE MERCHANT & CAFÉ 2879 Grand Ave. Los Olivos, 805-688-7265 losolivoscafe.com Wine Country; Entrées $12–$29

This retail wine shop adjoins an all-day café with seating indoors by the stone fireplace and outside on the wisteria-covered patio. Cheese plates and olives are small bites perfect for pairing with wines at the bar. Salads, sandwiches, burgers, pasta, and pizza comprise the lunch menu. At night choices get a little fancier with pot roast, lamb shank, pasta, chicken, steak, and fresh fish. The wine selection from the shop (available to diners) has more than 400 labels and specializes in picks from California’s Central Coast. Now that’s fun.

LUCKY PENNY 127 Anacapa St. Santa Barbara, 805-284-0358 luckypennysb.com Californian; Entrées $11–$16

Located in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, this orderat-the-counter spot ranks as one of the city’s most Instagrammed restaurants. The exterior covered in thousands of shiny copper pennies is a draw, but so is the creative menu of close-up-worthy salads, sandwiches, small plates, and wood-fired pizzas.

The latter includes such local-place-named favorites as the Milpas, topped with fingerling potatoes, chorizo, and a sunny-side-up egg. Salads are big enough to turn into a meal or to share with a friend who orders pizza. Seating is on a pet-friendly patio adjacent to The Lark restaurant. Coffee is served, along with beer, wine, cider, and a life-giving frosé accented with local strawberries and tarragon.

PEASANTS FEAST 487 Atterdag Road Solvang, 805-686-4555 peasantsfeast.com Seasonal Comfort Food Entrées and Sandwiches $14–$18

Owned by chef Michael Cherney, an alum of Las Vegas’ L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, and his wife Sarah, a hospitality pro, this family-friendly restaurant focuses

Quesadilla Gorilla (quesadillagorilla. com) in San Luis Obispo’s The Creamery Marketplace is the fifth location of the eatery owned by husband-and-wife Miguel and Mikayla Reyes, who make their gourmet quesadillas with locally sourced ingredients. The popular build-your-own option lets diners choose a protein (a vegan meat alternative is available), cheese, two fillings, and two sides. Sit indoors or on the outdoor patio and sip a Central Coast beer or wine.

Look for weekly and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo–student specials.

on scratch-made food from local ingredients. Menu stars like Solvang Hot Chicken sandwich, The Grotto Smash Burger, Local Rock Fish Tacos, and family meals such as Whole Fried Free-Range Chicken are served in the casual earth-toned dining room, on the outdoor patio, and for takeout. Reina’s Ice Cream by the Scoop, made by the Cherneys’ daughter, is a must.

TABU SHABU 2920 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Unit A Thousand Oaks, 805-371-8228 tabushabu.com Asian; Entrées $14–$24

At this Japanese-style hot-pot spot, diners cook their choice of thinly sliced meats, seafood, or fresh vegetables in hot broth and enjoy it with rice or noodles and house-made sauces. The casual eatery is open for lunch and dinner daily and offers takeout. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and paleo options are available.

TAVERNA TONY 23410 Civic Center Way Malibu, 310-317-9667 tavernatony.com Greek; Entrées $13–$37

This huge space at the northeast corner of the Malibu Country Mart is almost never closed and never empty.

There’s always fun to be had: If the classical guitarists aren’t playing, the waiters might be singing. Every meal starts with Greek-style country bread and house-made dip. The roast baby lamb is a specialty of the house for good reasons: The meat is garlicky and mostly tender with some crispy bites. The accompanying potatoes are roasted with lemon juice and the carrots are cooked with dill. Greek coffee is a perfect end here.

WAYPOINT CAFÉ 325 Durley Ave. Camarillo, 805-388-2535 thewaypointcafe.com American; Entrées $16–$25 Kid-Friendly

With its unique location at the Camarillo Airport, this café is a locals’ favorite for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and Friday and Saturday dinner with airplane traffic views.

Signatures at dinner are Chicken Marsala, Top Sirloin Steak, and Rotelli Cajun Pasta, and tacos, burgers, sandwiches, and salads round out the menu. At lunch, try the Serrano Cheeseburger and an old-fashioned ice cream milkshake. Egg dishes rule at breakfast, along with Belgian waffles, pancakes, breakfast burritos, and house-made Cinnamon Roll French Toast. Tri-tip cooked on an oak-fired grill makes a special appearance on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday. Sit inside or on the spacious outdoor heated patio.  WINTER 2022 / 805LIVING.COM

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