Santa Barbara Coast, CA December 2025 by City Lifestyle

‘Tis

The Season

PHOTOGRAPHER TRISTIN TRACY’S SWEET MEMORIES GROWING UP AT CASA DEL HERRERO

ECO-CONSCIOUS GIFT GUIDE

HOLIDAY STYLE EDIT DECEMBER 2025

Wrapping it Up!

As the year winds down and the twinkle of the holidays fills Santa Barbara, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey this magazine has taken—and the many people who’ve made it shine. It’s fitting that this issue, themed around gathering and giving, also marks a personal transition for me. This issue will my last and I’m stepping away from my role as Publisher.

It’s been a great honor to help tell the stories that make our community so unique—to spotlight the makers, dreamers, and doers who give Santa Barbara its heartbeat. From our first cover shoot to this very issue, I’ve been continually inspired by the creativity and generosity that define this place we call home.

I’m thrilled to share that Andrew Schmoller of Esbee, will be taking the reins as Publisher going forward. Andrew brings dynamic energy, local roots, and a genuine passion for connecting community through storytelling. I know the magazine will continue to thrive under his leadership and vision.

This month’s issue celebrates the magic of the season with stories that remind us what truly matters: connection, generosity, and joy. Our cover story by Tristin Tracy invites us inside the storied Casa del Herrero, where holiday traditions are steeped in memory and timeless beauty. You’ll also find John Savage of Creative Services Catering sharing a festive menu perfect for entertaining, and Britainy McIntire styling a Renaissance-inspired holiday fashion spread that feels both glamorous and grounded.

For those looking to give back or shop with intention, we’ve included an eco-conscious gift guide and a spotlight on the Santa Barbara Food Bank, whose tireless work supports families year-round. Betsy O’Brien’s holiday event guide and a festive feature on retailer Lewis & Clark wrap it all up with local spirit.

As I sign off one last time, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks—to our readers, advertisers, and creative team—for allowing me to be part of this extraordinary community.

Wishing you a beautiful holiday season and a bright new year ahead.

MELISSA PEDRAZZINI-JORDANO,

PUBLISHER @SANTABARBARACOASTCITYLIFESTYLE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Melissa Pedrazzini-Jordano

melissa.pedrazzini@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Samantha Durbin | samantha.durbin@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Jessica Dahl | jessica.dahl@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Mim Jordano

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Sara Stevens

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tracy Marcynzsyn, Collin Harmon, Betsy O’Brien, John Savage, Tristin Tracy, Meaghan Clark Tiernan

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Tristin Tracy

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

RETIRE AS WELL AS YOU’VE LIVED

Introducing SecureEquitySM, a powerful proprietary financing tool designed for homeowners with high-value properties

Key Advantages:

Loan limits up to $4 million exceeding HECM loan caps

Refinancing of existing mortgage to eliminate principal and interest payments

Eric D. Miller NMLS #582959

DECEMBER 2025

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Andrew Firestone & sidekick Shane Firestone at Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation’s Golden Gala 2: Brittany Avila Wazny, Executive Director of Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation and Shane Firestone 3: Golden Gala attendees Kielle Lindsey, Melissa Pedrazzini-Jordano, Christie Myers, Chrissy Deferville 4: Teddy & Djamila Cabugos, owners of Sunstone Winery 5: Philippe & Jennifer d’Offay at the Tuscan Villa for Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation 6: Maria Yapur & Travis Vassallo gala attendees of Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation 7: The Avila Family: Sandra, Jordan, Michelle, Ray, Kendall, Executive Director Brittany Avila Wazny, Daniel Wazny Event Photography by Sophia Viktoria Photography

business monthly

Ojai Valley Inn’s Serenity Season Returns

Celebrate the holiday season with experiences for every generation. Mornings of hot cocoa and ornament painting are available daily through December 25, while gingerbread house kits can be purchased for in-room enjoyment. Santa makes special appearances with Breakfast With Santa from December 19–21, and cookie decorating with storytelling runs December 19–20. On Christmas Eve, guests can join the Jingle Bell Jaunt morning walk or storytelling with Santa’s elves at the Artist Cottage.

Scan to read more

Meet Miss B’s Children’s Club in Summerland

Miss B’s Children’s Club welcomes families with little ones aged between three and six years for afternoon (2:30 pm - 4:30 pm) and Saturday morning (9:30 am - 11:30 am) enrichment classes. Our philosophy supports the individuality of every child with meaningful play-based experiences in a nurturing environment. Schedule a tour and join now!

All-Day Eatery Gracie Opens on the Waterfront

Introducing Gracie, Santa Barbara’s newest all-day eatery bringing fresh flavors, expertly crafted cocktails, and unbeatable waterfront views. Co-owners and industry veterans Dudley Michael and Grace Austin of Harbor Club Hospitality (Rodeo Room and The Shop) have ignited the former Breakwater at the Harbor space into a lively, dynamic gathering spot where guests can eat, sip, and linger from sunrise to sundown.

Photography by Carly Otness

Photography by Tristin Tracy

Photography by Ojai Valley Inn

Swap Your Electric Bill for a New Roof + Solar One Monthly Payment. Dual Upgrade. Major Savings.

Instead of wasting money on rising electric bills, you can replace it with a single predictable payment that covers a brand-new roof AND a custom solar system—all through SolaRoof by August Roofing.

9 No More Utility Surprises

9 Get a New Roof + Solar in One Easy Package

9 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit – Act Before It Changes! Why Now?

A federal bill could slash or eliminate the 30% solar tax credit starting January 1. With Santa Barbara’s lengthy permitting process, now’s the time to lock in your savings.

9 Take control of your energy.

9 Upgrade your home.

9 Pay less over time.

ARTICLE BY BETSY O’BRIEN @THEBETSLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSE NATALE, JAMES + JESS

Betsy’s Holiday Have-Tos

Just like Barry De Vorzon sings in It’s Christmas Once Again in Santa Barbara, we certainly have a lot of Christmas in our hearts. Even with more sand than snow outside, Santa Barbara has no shortage of holiday activities to choose from. Here are my holiday have-tos.

ZooLights

See handcrafted, silk-covered-lantern animals come to life at ZooLights at the Santa Barbara Zoo through January 11. (Children under 2 free.)

Parade of Lights

Watch decorated boats set sail in the Parade of Lights from the Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns Wharf. Stay for the fireworks finale! December 8 – 21.

Miracle at Pearl Social Cocktail Club.

Sip yuletide libations in festive mugs while enveloped in an explosion of dazzling decor at Miracle at Pearl Social Cocktail Club.

Let it Snow!

Delight in falling snowflakes in the Center Court of Paseo Nuevo with their Let it Snow! festivities at 6:00 PM & 7:00 PM on weekends.

Santa Barbara Trolley of Lights

View Santa Barbara neighborhoods all aglow with sparkling lights on the Santa Barbara Trolley of Lights holiday tour. It’s 2 hours so bring your hot chocolate and holiday spirit.

Leave the ordinary behind and discover a night like no other, where the magic of New Year’s comes alive. Last year, the night burned crimson red as we counted down to 2025. This year’s essence? You’ll have to wait and see. Beneath the glow of Baccarat chandeliers, guests dance, toast, and welcome 2026, experiencing an unforgettable evening of elegance and the electric promise of a fresh new year an experience found only at The Miramar.

Photos by: Kerry Wheeler (top) & Kelsey Cowley (bottom)

Gift Guide for the Eco-Conscious

Mission Refill: Skincare, home goods, and kid’s items from Pink Hill Press, Dos Vidas, and Golden Arrow Goods, benefitting loved ones and the planet. Esbee: Designed in Montecito, made in California, this menswear brand’s well-constructed pieces are 100% Supima cotton, meaning, they’re environmentally friendlier and way softer than conventional cotton. Lazy Eye: Shop owner Andy curates a collection of thrifted women’s and men’s clothing from top and unknown brands in the heart of Old Town Goleta. Idyll Mercantile: Owner Hannah personalizes plant buying at her shop where she educates guests on the best indoor plants that purify the air (hint: they all do). Simplbars: These plastic-free, vegan, and sustainably sourced bars, like the pink clay and geranium or mango butter and argan oil, revitalize limp locks.

Shop local for items that are sustainable and low-waste for healthier, happier holidays

The writer/photographer and her grandfather

Through

My Lens

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRISTIN TRACY

Casa del Herrero is more than a historic estate to me. It is the backdrop for my family’s story, a place where generations of my family left their mark.

My grandfather, Ildo Marra, came to the Steedman estate in the mid-1940s, just after the war. He was hired as a gardener and chauffeur, and over time, he became the head gardener, tending the land for over fifty years. He and my grandmother raised their two daughters, my mom and my aunt, in the

side cottage next to the main house. Both of those daughters would later marry on the property. To me, the Casa isn’t only about Spanish Revival architecture or lush gardens, it’s the place where my family’s lives unfolded.

When I was growing up, the estate had already begun its transition. The daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Steedman, Medora Steedman Bass, rarely visited the property since she lived elsewhere. By the time I came along, Medora had passed away and her children were in the process of establishing a private foundation for the Casa. That transition took several years before the estate officially opened to the public in 1995, just a year before my grandfather passed away and my family moved off the property.

As a child, I went to Mt. Carmel School just blocks away. Most afternoons, I found myself at the Casa. I ate figs and mandarin oranges until my hands were sticky, climbed trees, and wandered pathways like they were secret corridors. The estate wasn’t the bustling cultural landmark

it is today; it was hushed, almost private, kept alive by a handful of gardeners. The fountains bubbled, and the air smelled of earth and roses. It felt like the world belonged only to us.

When I was a teenager at Anacapa School, I began to carry a camera around. My photography elective gave me an excuse to study the details that surrounded me there. I practiced on the bronze lions perched on railings, the bursts of patterned tile, the way light shifted across ornately carved pots and whitewashed arches.

The gardens became my classroom. I learned how to notice texture and light, how to pause, and how to translate beauty into an image. Looking back, I think the Casa was teaching me long before I called myself a photographer.

Casa del Herrero is layered in history. Many of its furnishings and design details came from

churches in Spain and Portugal, carrying stories from across the Atlantic to Santa Barbara. Even as a child, I felt the gravity of those details; the painted wooden statues, the heavy carved doors, the bright tile fountains echoing in the courtyards. They left an imprint on how I see the world, not just as an artist, but as a person.

Today, returning to the Casa as a professional photographer feels full circle. I photograph surprise proposals, couples, families, and events here. Each time I walk through its gates, I see the beauty of the estate and the echoes of my own story.

Families play in the same gardens where I once ran. Children chase each other down the paths I knew by heart. Parents pause to hold hands under the arches. When I lift my camera, I’m preserving something much bigger than a single afternoon. I’m helping people write their own chapter in a place that has held so many before them.

As a little girl, I knew the Casa as quiet and private. Now, I watch it alive with laughter and celebration. Families gather, children tumble across lawns, couples mark milestones. It is profoundly moving to see my community enjoy a place that was once so tied to my family’s daily life.

Photographs have always been how we hold time. I still picture the old black-and-white images of my grandparents at the Casa in the 1940s and ‘50s. Those photos remind me of the love and care that always existed here. When I deliver a photo album to a family, I think about those images being pulled off a shelf decades from now. A grandchild asking what life felt like back then. And the photos answering with sunlight, with gardens, with connection.

This is why I call my work a legacy business. I am not simply lining people up and asking them to smile. I am creating space for families to be themselves—messy, joyful, connected. I want them to love the time they spend in front of my lens, and to have something tangible to return to again and again. An album

that becomes an heirloom. A photograph that keeps love alive across generations.

Returning to Casa del Herrero as a photographer fills me with gratitude. Every image I take here bridges the past and future. My grandfather’s hands in the soil. My small footsteps in the gardens. A family today laughing under the same trees. Stories continue here.

Tristin Tracy believes families connect best outdoors, exploring nature together. She is a photographer for families looking for a joyful, artistic, and modern photography experience. tristintracyphotography.com

Casa del Herrero offers docent-led tours by reservation only. Docent-led tours are available on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10 AM and 2 PM throughout the year. casadelherrero.com

dream life is waiting.

Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.

Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction. Your

Markets available nationwide Learn more at future.citylifestyle.com

Holiday Magic at Lewis & Clark

ARTICLE BY COLLIN HARMON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Every year, Lewis & Clark transforms into a sparkling wonderland. You feel you’ve been transported to a charming European village. It’s one of those places that makes you slow down and take in every twinkle, every detail of holiday beauty.

The store has been a part of Santa Barbara since 1981, when mother and daughter team Elizabeth and Lisa founded it. Over the past four decades, it has grown into one of Central California’s most unique and beloved shops. What began as a small store with curated treasures has flourished into a local landmark.

Today, it remains family-owned and operated by three generations: grandmother Elizabeth, daughter Lisa, and Lisa’s daughter, Meriwether. Together, they nurture the shop with the same warmth and care it began with. Every shelf reflects their love for beauty, tradition, and community.

The shop doesn’t just put up decorations—it creates atmosphere. Garlands drape across antique hutches. Ornaments glitter from every corner. Classic nutcrackers stand tall next to delicate glass baubles. Tiny houses with glowing windows invite you down snowy cobblestone streets.

I’ve loved this store since I was a child. One of my most cherished memories is standing next to my mother at the jewelry

cases, gazing at the sparkling silver charms. I still have many of those charms. Each one holds a piece of my childhood and reminds me of the joy of wandering through this store with her. Years later, that same feeling of wonder greets me the moment I step inside.

Lewis & Clark is known for its beautiful selection of ornaments and decorations. You’ll find something special for your tree. Maybe a hand-painted ornament that looks like it came from an old-world market. Perhaps a delicate glass icicle or a cheerful Santa figurine. Instead of rushing through a big-box store, you can find gifts here that feel personal.

There’s also everything you need to create a stunning holiday table. Vintage silverware gleams beside holiday napkins and elegant dinnerware. You could easily build a holiday tablescape from pieces in this shop.

When I think about what makes Christmas in Santa Barbara so special, Lewis & Clark comes to mind. It’s more than a store. It’s a tradition, a memory, and a reminder of how a place can hold joy for generations.

lewis-clark-ltd.myshopify.com

Bedeck The Halls

Classic food and stiff drinks at Joe’s Cafe. Egg rolls and extra dirty martinis at Pickle Room. ‘Tis the season.

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA DURBIN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSH GRUETZMACHER

Nicole is wearing Naeem Khan Ria

Zee beaded fringe cocktail dress, Jimmy Choo heels, vintage deco earrings, crystal cocktail ring.

CONTINUED >

Clothes from Renaissance Fine Consignment. Styled by Britainy McIntire. Shot on location at Joe’s Cafe and Pickle Room.

Allaura is wearing Richard Tyler Couture gree gown, vintage chandelier earrings.

Allaura is wearing Ali Rahimi for Mon Atelier red coat, Le Superbe leopard dress, Judith Leiber gold belt worn as necklace, Robert Lee Morris earrings, Jools green ring, Giuseppe Zanotti Design heels. Nicole is wearing John Paul Ataker red blouse, Heidi Daus choker, Alice & Olivia black leather pants, Chanel platform heels, vintage gold/diamond earrings.

Allaura is wearing vintage Ralph Lauren beaded cocktail dress, Alice & Olivia burgundy velvet blazer, Jimmy Choo shoes, Louis Vuitton clutch. Nicole is wearing Worth

New York vest, Jason Wu trousers, Prada shoes, Judith Leiber clutch, Heid Daus choker.

Call

From Hunger to Health

ARTICLE BY MEAGHAN CLARK TIERNAN

Laurel Alcantar

If you donate $1, we can turn that into $5 of food.

The Food Bank of Santa Barbara County is on a mission to end hunger, but with federal budget cuts and a dwindling job market, those in need of their services are only expected to increase.

The statistics are staggering: The Food Bank already serves one in every three Santa Barbara County community members, and Santa Barbara County currently has the second highest poverty rate in the state. “We believe that our neighbors deserve access to healthy food,” says Laurel Alcantar, Director of Marketing with The Food Bank of Santa Barbara County.

In March, unexpectedly, USDA food shipments and Local Food Purchase Assistance Program (LFPA) stopped. An estimated $4 million loss of “in kind” food and funds. As a result, The Food Bank moved quickly to develop a new program that served our community with less federal support. The result is a “Farm to Foodbank” program, in which food is sourced from local, small-scale farms to fill the gap created by federal cuts. “In lessening how we rely on federal government support, we’re localizing the food system,” she says, “putting local dollars back in our community.”

The organization distributes fresh produce on Saturdays throughout the county—from Lompoc to Santa Barbara—in addition to so much more. They have a grocery reuse program, Grocery Rescue, that saves goods from local landfills, and backyard gleans bring volunteers to overgrown fruit trees. The Foodbanks’ Children’s nutrition education programs offer a farmers market and Healthy School

Pantry program, for children and families. 38% of those served are children.

For The Foodbank of Santa Barbara County, the goal to end hunger is just one barrier. Because their mission of “moving the community from hunger into health” doesn’t just translate to delivering food for seniors, families, and community members in need. “Food insecurity can impact everyone,” says Alcantar. Their programs help distribute food, but also educate everyone in the community.

In order to create “a better future for our community” as The Food Bank of Santa Barbara County envisions, get involved. The organization’s buying power is multiplied with each donation. “If you donate $1, we can turn that into $5 of food,” says Alcantar.

One easy way to help is through their Foodbeats program. Like Spotify or Netflix, Foodbeats allows everyone a chance to stream whole foods into the bodies of those in need, starting at just $5 a month. Or create an account on VolunteerHub and be on the lookout for regular volunteer opportunities popping up in your inbox. If you’ve got a backyard that needs to be gleaned, fill out the form found at foodbanksbc.org/backyardbounty2

Or enjoy an acqua della vita cocktail at Bettina or chimichurri corn ribs at Paloma where a portion of the proceeds go toward the nonprofit. Check out more participating restaurants as part of the 2025 Dine Out For Hunger Campaign at info.foodbanksbc. org/on-the-table-campaigns-happenings

To learn more about the organization, or to get involved, visit foodbanksbc.org.

Local Legacy

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum’s Greg Gorga: 18 years of transformational leadership

When Greg Gorga and six friends moved to the Bay Area from Rutgers, New Jersey, back in 1980, Greg never imagined his journey would place him in the position of positively impacting the lives of thousands each year.

As Executive Director of the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, Greg oversees educational programs and exhibits serving more than 5,000 youth annually. As the nonprofit museum celebrates its 25th anniversary—18 of those with Greg at the helm—he reflects on how far both have come.

“I knew port and starboard and that was it,” laughs Greg, thinking back to 2007 when he started at the fledgling SBMM. Beginning his foray into the nonprofit world as a grant writer, Greg began as Director of Development at SBMM, bringing his skills and experience from restaurant management to the job. Greg managed the Rusty Pelican before joining SBMM and stepping in as Executive Director in 2008.

Since then, “I’ve been the president of the Council of American Maritime Museums,” he notes, and SBMM has transformed into an educational powerhouse under his leadership.

“Greg’s tenure has been defined by growth, resilience, and lasting community impact. From guiding SBMM through financial crises and the COVID-19 pandemic to securing major milestones like the museum’s AAM accreditation and the installation of the iconic Point Conception Lighthouse Lens, Greg has shaped SBMM into a top-tier institution and cultural landmark,” says SBMM’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Heather Behrens. “He’s also expanded public programs, championed accessibility for underserved youth, and brought fresh energy to the museum’s exhibits and storytelling.”

Greg attributes SBMM’s growth to those he works with, from the talented staff and educators to the supportive community and inspiring participants, success has been a team effort.

As most educational programming is free of charge, serving thousands of Title 1 students, despite the admission charged and membership fees, the bulk of the museum’s funding comes from private grants and individual donors.

In addition to the original Tall Ship Program, which continues to inspire kids by offering a slice of life aboard the ships, SBMM hosts 13 different educational programs. These programs focus on project-based learning and serve kids from all economic backgrounds. Programs like Whales are Superheroes!, Science Nights, and Girls in Ocean Science are designed by experts to fit the needs of youth.

“They really know what will work,” says Greg. “Maritime on the Move takes kids to explore the salt marsh—half of those kids had never even been there— plus the tar pits and seal rookery. It’s a great way for kids to learn about the coastal environment and why it’s important, while introducing children to all sorts of career possibilities.”

Meeting legendary personalities like Joe Walsh, Kim Mearig, and JeanMichel Cousteau, to name a few, is another career highlight. “This job has afforded me the opportunity to meet people who really care about our community and our planet,” says Greg, naming the volunteer docents, fellow nonprofits, and benevolent donors among them.

Looking forward to the next chapter of his journey, “I plan to consult, travel, and enjoy life.”

sbmm.org

ARTICLE BY TRACY MARCYNZSYN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHAR BECK

A SURF & TURF

new year’s eve feast

Chef John of Creative Services Catering’s NYE menu

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA DURBIN, CHEF JOHN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMY PICKETT

Lobster. Steak. Shrimp. Friends. Family. Wine. Celebrate the year’s end al fresco with life’s greatest joys. This Surf & Turf New Year’s Eve menu was inspired by a private family dinner served by Chef John of Creative Services Catering. His event space, Bungalow 626, is a historic craftsman bungalow in downtown Santa Barbara ideal for intimate gatherings.

ROASTED RAINBOW POTATOES WITH STEAK RUB & ROSEMARY

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs small rainbow potatoes (red, yellow, and purple, halved or quartered)

• 2–3 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp steak rub (store-bought or homemade blend)

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)

• Optional: ½ tsp smoked paprika or chili flakes

• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or grated Parmesan

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prep potatoes. Wash and cut into even-sized halves or quarters.

3. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, steak rub, salt, pepper, oregano, Italian seasoning, and rosemary until evenly coated.

4. Spread potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet, cut side down for crispness.

5. Bake 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

6. Sprinkle with parsley or Parmesan and serve warm.

GRILLED TOP SIRLOIN WITH SAVAGE SASSY SAUCE

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Marinading time: 1-2 hrs

Cook Time: 8–10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs center-cut top sirloin, trimmed of excess fat

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• ½ cup Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tbsp steak rub (store-bought or homemade blend)

• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped

• Savage Sassy Sauce, for serving *available for purchase

Instructions:

1. Prepare the marinade. In a bowl, combine olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, steak rub, and fresh rosemary.

2. Marinate the steak. Rub the mixture all over the sirloin, coating it evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours.

Roasted Rainbow Potatoes with Steak Rub & Rosemary

Grilled Top Sirloin with Savage Sassy Sauce

3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the steak for 3–4 minutes per side, or until a nice sear forms.

4. Transfer the steak to a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) and roast for 5–10 minutes, depending on desired doneness (use a meat thermometer—135°F for medium-rare).

5. Remove from the oven, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 20 minutes to retain juices.

6. Slice and arrange on a platter. Drizzle generously with Savage Sassy Sauce before serving.

Chef John’s Tip

Don’t keep flipping the meat during grilling. Place on grill, leave for 3-4 minutes, flip, and grill the other side for 3-4 minutes. Flip again while turning so you get cross grill marks, then flip once more, turning again for cross grill marks.

BUTTER-POACHED GRILLED LOBSTER TAILS

Serves: 4

Prep time: 20 minutes

Marinating time: 2 hours

Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4–6 sustainably caught lobster tails (about 1½–2 lbs total), halved and removed from shell

• ½ lb (2 sticks) unsalted butter

• 2 shallots, finely minced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup dry white wine

• 2 tbsps fresh Italian parsley, chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Lemon wedges, for serving

• Drawn butter, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and shallots; cook gently for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent (do not brown). Stir in white wine and simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced. Remove from heat and mix in parsley, salt, and pepper.

2. Place the lobster meat in a shallow baking dish. Pour the warm butter mixture over the top, coating evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.

3. Remove the dish from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to let the lobster come to room temp.

4. Transfer the lobster pieces and marinade to a large (16-inch) frying pan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer—do not boil. Cook just until the lobster turns opaque and white, about 5–7 minutes, depending on size.

5. Preheat your grill to high. Once hot, quickly char the lobster pieces for 1–2 minutes per side to add smoky flavor and light grill marks.

6. Transfer to a platter and drizzle lightly with some of the drawn butter. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and drawn butter on the side.

Chef John’s Tip

Keep a close eye on the lobster—overcooking will make it tough. The butter should never bubble vigorously; a gentle shimmer means it’s just right. Be sure to use Italian parsley, not regular parsley – it overpowers the delicate lobster flavor.

Butter-Poached Grilled Lobster Tails

4-Peppered Shrimp

4-PEPPERED SHRIMP

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Marinating time: 1 hour

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp of your own 4-pepper blend (for example: black, white, pink, and green peppercorns)

• ½ tsp raw sugar

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Lemon wedges for garnish

• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.

2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, pepper blend, raw sugar, paprika

3. Add shrimp to marinate in bowl for 1 hour.

4. On a stainless steel skewer, place the shrimp end to end.

5. On a pre-heated grill, grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side until opaque.

6. Remove stainless steel skewer and put one shrimp on cocktail skewer at a time. Sprinkle with lemon and serve with lemon wedges. Provide Savage Sassy Sauce for dipping.

Chef John’s Tip

Don’t overcook the shrimp; only flip once.

JOHN ERIC SAVAGE | PROPRIETOR & EXECUTIVE CHEF OF CREATIVE SERVICES

Chef John graduated from Culinary Arts at Santa Barbara City College and began his catering business in 1996. John is a passionate advocate for cooking food with talent, creativity, and innovation. He works side by side with talented Chefs to create any meal for your event. Chef John’s priority is providing remarkable, top-quality service for any occasion. 805.965.9121 | creativeservicescatering.com

events

DECEMBER 5TH

Merry Miramar Night @rosewoodmiramarbeach

Rosewood Miramar Resort, Montecito | 5:00 PM

Join us on December 5th as we gather at Miramar to kick off the month with a festive celebration at Rosewood Miramar Beach. In honor of Toys

For Tots Santa Barbara, we invite our resort guests and locals to enjoy a special holiday concert, our Miramar “snowfall” and meet Santa Claus.

DECEMBER 6TH

Miss B’s Holiday Children’s Party @missb.co

2500 Lillie Avenue, Summerland | 3:00 PM

Bring the family and join us to celebrate the launch of Miss B’s Children’s Club with your little ones. Meet Santa, enjoy festive arts & crafts, hot chocolate, and more. missbclub.com

DECEMBER 13TH, 14TH, 20TH, 21ST

Nutcracker High Tea at Finch & Fork @finchandfork

Finch and Fork at The Canary Hotel | 4:00 PM

Step into a whimsical winter wonderland at a Nutcracker Ballet-themed afternoon tea party. Guests will enjoy a delightful spread of pastries, quiche tartlets, buttery scones, and tea sandwiches with classic fillings like cucumber & cream cheese, egg salad, and smoked salmon. Perfect for a cozy gathering with friends or to continue the magic after seeing the ballet itself.

DECEMBER 13TH

Ice in Paradise Classic Holiday Hits Show @iceinparadise

6985 Santa Felicia Drive, Goleta | 12:30 PM

Join us to celebrate the holidays with our talented skaters as they present their “Classic Holiday Hits” Show. Get in the holiday spirit with numbers from our adorable tots up through our accomplished academy skaters and beyond. With two showings presented on Saturday, December 13th; the first at 12:30pm and the second at 3:30pm. Tickets start at $20.