HOME/AWAY Edition
ANTONIO GATES
SUPER CHARGER
2 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
Contributor Call Out PHOTO BY:
EDER ESCAMILLA ederphoto.com @ederphoto Meals Deconstructed - Pasta La Vista Solare Ristorante 2820 Roosevelt Rd, Liberty Station San Diego, CA 92106 DATE TAKEN: AUGUST 11, 2016
LOCALE MAGAZINE | 3
A NOTE FROM OUR
PU BLISHER ERIK HALE PUBLISHER + FOUNDER erik@localemagazine.com | @local_e
THE TEAM ASHLEY SMITH COO/Co-Founder ashley@localemagazine.com | @ashleyelainexo ART REILLY KAVANAUGH Art Director + Designer reilly@localemagazine.com | @localereilly | @reillyek EDITORIAL ALANA ARONSON Editor alana@localemagazine.com | @alana_aronson TAMARA PHILIPS Editor tamara@localemagazine.com | @candid.california JORDAN LIGONS Editor jordan@localemagazine.com | @justjayyL IYANA EDOUARD Production Manager iyana@localemagazine.com | @xvii_iyana SALES & MARKETING MIKE TODD SMITH Sr. Market Manager mts@localemagazine.com | @miketoddsmith JASON KOSKY Sr. Market Manager jason@localemagazine.com | @locale_jason BRIANNA ROMANO Partnerships + Marketing Director brianna@localemagazine.com | @briannabanawna DAVID LOWE Market Manager david@localemagazine.com | @diggs310 BLAINE MULLIGAN Market Manager blaine@localemagazine.com | @localeblainemulligan FINANCE VALERIE KERR Accountant accounting@localemagazine.com
“Home is the place where, when you have to go there, they have to take you in.”— Robert Frost Or is it, Robert? After 55 years of calling San Diego home, a recent vote left us wondering where the Chargers would call home next year. San Antonio? Los Angeles? London? I can’t quite imagine the Jolly Ol’ London Chargers. Can you? In case they decide to pack up and leave, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to have one of the Chargers’ all-time (and NFL’s for that matter) #85, Antonio Gates, on the cover of the Home/Away issue. The team’s all-time receiving leader with over 10,000 yards and 109 touchdowns sat down with us to discuss his illustrious 14-year career as well as his plans post grid iron (Antonio the Great). Our Home/Away issue transports you to Tokyo for a week to tag-along with my fiancé and me as we explore robots and ramen (Taking in Tokyo), then helps you build a nest in our Home/Away issue special guide (HOME (Away From Home)). We talk home decorating with style mogul Jonathan Adler (A Home Décor Empire) and whisk you away to Indian Wells for a well-deserved weekend getaway (Relaxation Destination). We show you our favorite place to watch football—and the ocean—decorating the table with an abundance of comfort food (First and #Goals) then we talk to a local expert about how to make your home feel “California Cool” (Artisan of California Cool). Our “content is king” philosophy will definitely challenge your ability to read this issue in one sitting. We still cover a local helping vets (Rebuild Veterans, Rebuild America), deconstruct three meals at one of our favorite restaurants (Pasta La Vista) and take you for a tour of a coffee shop revolution happening in our own backyard (Mug Life). Deep breath... And sweet shrubs, and tree houses, and Miss California, and micro-brewing, and new cool stores, and Little Italy, and North Park, and surfers..... Yeah. It’s all in here. We hope you enjoy your city and don’t take it for granted; you could be forced to move someday.
ERIK HALE PUBLISHER
4 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
DISTRIBUTION RICK RAMIREZ & ROBERT JONES
THE CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS AMANDA LENOX | BLAKE PINTO blakepinto.com ELAINE MORGAN CUTTING liberarilyemc.com | @el2aine EMILY TORRES thepostgradfiles.com | @emilyelyse8 JACKIE BRYANT jackiebryantwriting.com | jacqbryant.journoportfolio.com | @jacqbry JAYME O’HANLON | JEANETTE SWANSON JESSICA DEUTCHMAN ournewhealthy.com | @ournewhealthy KAI OLIVER-KURTIN sdsightsandbites.com | @kaizie1 KATIE DILLON lajollamom.com | @lajollamom KATIE CALLAHAN katiecallahan.com | @katiecallawho MELISSA MITCHELL melissaLmitchell.com | @melissaaliana NICOLE HAKIM sultanvilebetrayer@tumblr.com | @nikkicola24 TYLER HOLLAND @tyler_jal | @vbstrct | WILL LANGE will-writes.com | @willwritesd PHOTOGRAPHERS BRADLEY BLACKBURN BApictures.com | @bapictures_com BRIANNA MOSS missmossphoto.com | @breezymoss EDER ESCAMILLA ederphoto.com | @ederphoto EVAN TIPTON evan-tipton.com | @tiptonevan JOSIE GONZALES qsphotography.com | @josgonzales JULIE JONES jonesphotographycompany.com | @jonesphotographycompany MARIUSZ JEGLENSKI mariuszjeglinski.com | @mariuszjeglinski MICHAEL WESLEY OF BLUE WESLEY BLUEWESLEY.COM | surfart.com | @bluewesley NATASHA LEE bynatasha.net | @talktonatasha NICK ISABELLA nickisabella.photography | @nickisabella.photography SARAH NAIL sarahnail.com | @sarahnailphotography SEAN DREWS seandrews.com | @seandrewsphoto TRACY LEBOE tracyleboe.com | @tkleboe TRAVIS MCCOY travismccoy.com | @travis_mccoy_photography FA S H I O N S T Y L I S T S JACKIE ROSE jackierosestyle.com | @jackierosestyle JACLYN KERSHEK jaclynkershek.com | @jacandginger KAREN PATTERSON kreatifphotography.com | REBECCA ARAOZ tailoredtantrums.com BEAUTY STYLISTS BRI OROZCO briororhair.com | @bri_oro BRIAN BOND brianbondmakeup.com | @brianbondmakeup JENNIFER MAU @beautycrave83 | JULIE LAZAIRE GARNIER LISA LEEDY lisa-leedy.com | @lisaleedybeautydesign SONIA RESHETNIKOVA soniaresh.com | @soniaresh *For full information on our contributors go to www.localemagazine.com/about LO CAL E MAG A Z I N E 2755 Bristol St Ste 295, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.436.8910 • www.localemagazine.com @localemagazine • #localemagazine
LOCALE MAGAZINE
CONTENTS December 2016 T H I S I S S U E : Home/Away
113
Away Feature
Relaxation Destination Everything You Need to Know For a Perfect Getaway at Miramonte Resort & Spa
100 118
Escape: Japan
148 Home Experts
Setting the Table
First and #Goals Score Ocean Views and a Fresh Menu While Cheering on Your Favorite Team
Real Estate Royalty San Diego’s Leading Real Estate Professionals
Taking in Tokyo 7 Days in Japan’s Capital City Has Us Hungry for More
129
Home/Away Guide
HOME (Away From Home) Our Guide to Nesting, Being the Perfect Party Host and Making Away Feel Like Home
110
144
Pigment
Flying Colors
North Park’s Pigment Brightens Up the Community 6 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
152
Home Profile
A Home Décor Empire
Harper’s Topiary Garden
Shrub Hub
San Diego’s Neighborhood Topiary Garden
126
Paradise Found Your Mansion Awaits in the Covenant
Jonathan Adler’s Happy Accident Turned Career
116
Su Casa
O2 Treehouse
Forest for the Trees
The Perfect Getaway with O2 Treehouse Creator Dustin Feider
LOCALE MAGAZINE
CONTENTS December 2016 12
Native Knowledge Where to be Monday-Sunday
STYLE/BEAUTY
GO/DO
34
Busalacchi Family
20
Localendar
22
Insta-Wow
All in the Family
20 Wonderful Winter Happenings
The Busalacchi Family’s Latest Restaurant, Barbusa, is Another Member of Their Culinary Family Tree
Home and Travel Bloggers and Businesses We Love
EAT/DRINK
42
Microbreweries
8 of San Diego’s Best Microbreweries
56
Beers to Make You Cheer, “BrewHoo!”
Style Expert
Artisan of California Cool
46
Vanessa Matsalla Creates the Ultimate Hip and Relaxed Home
86
Andy Masi
Cover Story
Antonio the Great Antonio Gates on Chasing the Record, How Detroit Shaped Him, and How His Family Molds Him
28
Lighting up the Gaslamp
San Diego’s Newest Luxury Hotel Brings an Elevated Nightlife Experience
60
Camping Deconstructed
Eat Expert
Well-Seasoned
Survival Kit
Bankers Hill Bar + Restaurant’s New Chef De Cuisine Shares His Vision
Camp Stop, Don’t Stop
62
74
Moniker General
Fashion Spread
What’s In a Name?
All That Glitters is Goals Go High-Fashion With These Diamonds in the Buff
Moniker General Brings Liberty Station Community Together
84
North Park
Walk in the Park
36
Spend 24 Hours With Us in North Park
Meals Deconsturcted
96
Pasta la Vista
Paige Alms
Solare Serves Up Authentic, Fresh Sicilian Flavor
49
Drink Feature
Mug Life A Roundup of The Trendiest Coffee Shops San Diego Has to Offer
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77
That’s What She Said
Mother Knows Best How to Explore La Jolla, According to Katie Dillon of “La Jolla Mom”
92
Humanitarian Profile
Rebuild Vets, Rebuild America Hernán Luis y Prado Honors Our Veterans By Providing Them With Opportunity
Big-Wave Warrior
Paige Alms is a Pioneer for Women in a Male Dominated Industry
®
All rights reserved © 2016, the entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any forms or by any means without express written prior permission of the copyright owner.
LOCALE MAGAZINE
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COVER
Photographed By: Travis McCoy, travismccoy.com | @travis_mccoy_photography Model: Antonio Gates, www.antoniogates.com
Making THE ISSUE It was a humid Tuesday in the Hollywood Hills when we arrived at Antonio Gates’ Los Angeles home. “Make yourselves at home,” he said flipping on the TV to watch Bravo. We set-up shop on the third floor’s backyard for the San Diego December cover shot, next to the pool. The black suit and tie (all his own clothing) accompanied the grey backdrop perfectly. Then we moved inside to get clicks of Gates lounging on his suede L-couch, to match his suede button-down olive green shirt, and further in the kitchen wearing active wear. We wanted him to look comfortable, relaxed. His home was a picture-perfectly decorated in creams and blues with gold accents throughout. Photographer Travis McCoy used a Canon 5D Mark III W/ 24-70mm or 70-200mm lens and for lighting he used a mixture of daylight and Profoto Pro 8 strobe packs. “Future Hall of Famer Antonio Gates was an absolute pleasure to work with,” McCoy said. He greeted us at his door with a big smile and welcomed us into his home for the day. “Antonio is incredibly photogenic and made my job very easy.” McCoy asked Gates’ wife, Sasha, to accompany him on a few shots after continuously making him laugh behind the scenes. “You were waiting for this moment all day,” Antonio joked with her. Their LA offseason home is currently up for sale and they plan to look for a more family-friendly option to pair with their San Diego abode. With two kids under 3 years old and two floors separating their bedrooms, it was time for a change. The shoot concluded with more laughs and, as we wrapped up, Gates was on to getting ready for the rest of the day’s busy schedule, which included going to look at a new house that sounded promising. Not too shabby for an off day.
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY
LADY OF
THE HOUSE EXPERT: Lori Dennis CREDENTIALS: ASID, LEED AP, Lori Dennis Inc.
Ò When Friday evening rolls around, we pack up the scooters and roller skates (mine) and check out what’s happening at Balboa Park. Whether it’s a ride on the carousel for my daughter, popping into the Automotive Museum with my husband, checking out world class, contemporary art at the San Diego Art Institute or catching a live performance, there is always something fun for everyone in our family. I’ve been riding the same roller skates there since I was 14! www.balboapark.org
Ò After a few client meetings, I refuel midday at La Clochette Du Coin (the little bell on the corner) in La Jolla. The young, French speaking owners are natives of Madagascar who infuse their unique island flavors in sublime organic coffee, teas and pastries. My favorites are the delicious latte, almond croissant and the gorgeous smiles of the brother-sister team. www.laclochetteducoin.com
Ò My clients love me because I spend their money like I spend my own, and that means I love finding deals! This Rancho Santa Fe resale shop is a hidden gem that routinely carries high-end china, crystal, lamps, furniture, jewelry and clothes for pennies on the dollar. Today I picked up a crystal wine decanter for a whopping $8. The shop is curated like an upscale boutique and all proceeds go to the Helen Woodward Animal Center next door. www.animalcenter.org
Ò Dinner is waiting for me at my favorite old school Mexican restaurant, Tony’s Jacal. A family-run joint that’s been around since 1946, they have some of the best chips and (SPICY) salsa in San Diego. I always order the chile relleno with the house margarita on the rocks and salt. We sit outside, under the patio lights, mature Bougainvillea and the beautiful pond. www.tonysjacal.com
Ò Time to de-stress and work off the Wednesday Mexican food, I head to Heather Stants class at Ginseng Yoga in South Park. Approaching yoga from her belly dancer background, she leads a dance flow workout that is so engaging I forget that I am exercising! There’s nothing better for the core.
Ò Saturday is beach day. I hit La Jolla’s Surf Diva to pick up a paddle board and head to La Jolla Shores Ecological Reserve. The water is warm and crystal clear, and the views of the hills are idyllic. Lunch or dinners are beach front at Pacific Beach’s JRDN. Every single item on the menu is perfect as is the wine list, all organic and farm to table. Make sure to catch the sunset and enjoy the people-watching on the boardwalk. www.surfdiva.com www.jrdn.com
“
My clients love me because I spend their money like I spend my own, and that means I love finding deals!
”
Ò I take a little staycation on Sundays and head for a section of San Diego that feels like a European Village. I arrive around 1 p.m. when the farmers market opens and take in the aromatic smells and vibrant colors of the produce and flowers. I spend a few hours hunting for unique home and garden treasures in the many one-of-a-kind boutiques. The vibe is creative and inspiring. It’s no wonder so many designers and architects set up shop here. www.cedrosavenue.com
www.heatherstants.com
PHOTO BY: Sean Drews
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BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY
HOME
DE-CURE EXPERT: Sean Cameron Barnes CREDENTIALS: Curator/Owner, love & aesthetics
Ò With my rigorous Friday training appointment in mind, I’m dying for a midday break at Prep Kitchen Little Italy, their fusilli bolognese makes the most stressful day disappear. When work is done I join my close friends for the sunset view and strong cocktails at Top of The Bay on the Porto Vista Hotel roof. We usually start craving a big dinner after that, so the night ends with my good friends, the Busalacchis, at Trattoria Fantastica & Cafe Zucchero. www.prepkitchenlittleitaly.com www.portovistasd.com www.trattoriafantastica.com www.cafezucchero.com
Ò I work every single day of the week. It’s par for the course of being a business owner and buyer. I try to mix hard work and strong ethic with delicious leisuretime. My week begins with Henry, my personal trainer at FIX Body Group in Hillcrest, we’ve been partners in health for a long time and he keeps me on track. Of course, I wreck it all later with the best chips and salsa at Ponces in Kensington. If I’m not tending to my shops, I visit my favorite boutiques nearby: Pigment just down the street from our North Park store, and Vitreum next door to our Little Italy store.
Ò Rushing to the love & aesthetics NoPa location from my training appointment, I start my day with Holsem Coffee. After I close the shop for the day I cruise through Uptown Tavern. Incredible happy hour of delicious bites and craft cocktails.
www.heartsleevescoffee.com www.waterfrontbarandgrill.com www.98bottlessd.com
www.sdweeklymarkets.com www.starlitesandiego.com
www.holsemcoffee.com www.uptowntavernsd.com
www.fixbodygroup.com www.poncesrestaurant.com www.shoppigment.com www.vitreum-us.com
Ò Tuesday’s a big day for my company so I have to start off with a cold brew at Heartsleeves Coffee in Little Italy, then I just walk right into our shop connected at the courtyard. While I’m working, I’m dreaming about the all-day Taco Tuesday at Waterfront Bar and Grill, which I try to get to as soon as possible. I finish my night with a glass of Evolution wine at 98 Bottles and call it a day.
Ò It’s not easy, but the big reward to an early Saturday morning is the Mercato, the Little Italy Farmers Market. I have my favorite small businesses and farms that I always hit up, and grab something for lunch at work later. Saturday nights are Starlite’s farm-to-table dinners and delicious drinks. I love that their mule is such a classic in San Diego.
Ò Breakfast Republic’s scrambles and pancakes fill my tummy with love to start the day. Dinner it’s all about Fireside in Liberty Station. Perfect ambiance, wonderful staff, and outstanding food. The various yakitori selections, romaine salad, and bone-in pork chop are what dreams are made of. www.breakfastrepublic.com www.firesidesd.com
“
I try to mix hard work and strong ethic with delicious leisure-time.
”
Ò Again, if I can be up early, then quiet walks in Balboa Park set the tone of the day. Brunch with friends at Madison in University Heights fill my day with laughter, and bombs my belly with joy. I get inspired by the treasures at Kobey’s Swap Meet, hunting antiques as props and fixtures for the stores. After shopping, the last thing I want to do is cook. So I go to Bankers Hill Bar and Grill for their heirloom tomato and ricotta linguine, and their butterscotch pudding is the perfect end to the busy week! www.madisononpark.com www.kobeyswap.com www.bankershillsd.com
PHOTO BY: Sean Drews
14 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
Breakfast Republic - Photo By: Eder Escamilla
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY
FERN,
BABY, FERN EXPERT: Patrixia Martins CREDENTIALS: Co-Owner of FERN
Ò On Friday, if I’m not Netflix and chilling with the dog, it’s nice to escape North County. I especially love the cocktails and vibes at Polite Provisions in North Park, accompanied by artisan meatballs from Soda and Swine. Quarterly, the Movement Lab in Solana Beach has Buti Glo on Friday Nights. It is a great way to sweat out the work week stress, get in touch with yourself, and meet some amazing people. www.politeprovisions.com www.sodaandswine.com www.themovementlab.org
Ò I always kickstart my work week with some amazing coffee. I live in Cardiff and am IN LOVE with Zumbar. I get a latte with an extra shot. Sipping on a perfect cup of coffee and looking at the Pacific is a great way to get some calm before the work week storm. You’re also sure to meet some furry friends while waiting for your coffee. www.zumbarcoffee.com
Ò I try to grab an early and light breakfast on Saturday mornings before volleyball at Moonlight Beach (North County does not play around with breakfast). I love Lockwood Table for the perfectly sized share plates like The Local Roll and the Nut Butter. The Local Roll is basically the best fancy breakfast burrito you’ve ever had, accompanied by three delicious house made sauces—my personal favorite is the apple-habanero.
Ò On my way into work I love to go next door to Coffee Coffee and get an iced coconut tea (regardless of the weather) and a gluten-free peanut butter cookie for an afternoon pick-me-up. Wednesday is ladies night at Solterra Winery, so stopping by after finishing work for a glass of wine is a must. We love Ben the sommelier; he really is the best at helping you pick the perfect glass of wine.
www.lockwoodtable.com
www.cafeipe.com www.solterrawinery.com
“ Ò Le Papagayo is on the corner of the block from FERN, and it is happy hour all day on Tuesdays! I grab some lunch, and on occasion some dinner too after the shop closes at 7 p.m. Taco Tuesday is made perfect with duck and mahi-mahi tacos, plus live music at night.
Ò On Thursdays I have my adult co-ed soccer at the YMCA. We love celebrating a win (or a loss) at the Regal Seagull. It’s a great place to sit with friends outdoors and sip on some amazing craft beer. The tap list changes regularly, so I get to try a new beer almost every time I walk in. www.regalseagull.com
16 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
Wednesday is ladies night at Solterra Winery, so stopping by after finishing work for a glass of wine is a must. We love Ben the sommelier; he really is the best at helping you pick the perfect glass of wine.
”
Ò On Sundays we host donation based yoga at FERN, so I try to hit the 10:30 a.m. yoga session before crossing the tracks and picking up goodies at the Leucadia Farmers Market. Then off to Seaside Market in Cardiff to get the rest of the provisions for the week and some delicious Cardiff Crack (Burgundy Pepper Tri Tip) to grill at home. Wine Steals has no corkage fee on Sunday, so finishing the day on the patio watching the sunset is a great way to prep for Monday. www.winestealssd.com www.seasidemarket.com
PHOTO BY: Bradley Blackburn
Solterra Winery - Photo By: Josie Gonzales
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
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WONDERFUL WINTER HAPPENINGS WRITTEN BY: NICOLE HAKIM
GO ON A WINE TOUR
www.solterrawinery.com ¢ For those who can’t get enough of wine, a tour is definitely
a perfect way to spend the day. The Solterra Winery is located just blocks from the beach, and offers wine aficionados an experience like no other. By making an appointment, one will be able to take a tour of the winery and learn about the process that goes into making and perfecting this well-loved drink.
DR. SEUSS’S HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS
JUNGLE BELLS
www.sandiegozoo.org ¢ From Dec. 9 to Jan. 7, take
a trip to the San Diego Zoo when it will be transformed into a winter wonderland. The zoo will feature festive lights and other holiday decor, as well as many events that will keep the night lively and jolly. This event guarantees a fun, animal filled evening the whole family will enjoy.
www.theoldglobe.org ¢ What better way to celebrate the holiday season than with a
classic Christmas story? At the Old Globe Theatre, this unique performance is put on by children from Title One Schools; this program helps the participants appreciate both literature and live theatre. What’s even better is that the show will be sensory friendly, meaning that it will be performed with those with autism and other special needs in mind.
SAN DIEGO WINTER BREW FEST www.sandiegobrewfest.com ¢ Located at the Hall of
BALBOA PARK DECEMBER NIGHTS
www.balboapark.org ¢ This Dec. 2 and 3, come
down to Balboa Park for its 39th annual holiday festival. Families will love visiting the various venders, trying diverse foods, watching dance performances and just spending time together. Previous years have seen participating Balboa Park museums offering free admission, so that is definitely something to take advantage of!
MURDER MYSTERY ADVENTURE
www.murdernmayhem.com ¢ Be a part of an adventure
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS VS. OAKLAND RAIDERS
www.sandiego.gov/qualcomm ¢ For those who can’t get enough of football, the San Diego Chargers will be taking on
the Oakland Raiders at the Qualcomm Stadium on Dec. 18. Get to the stadium early to enjoy pregame festivities, and when the game starts, cheer on your favorite team to victory. 20 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
full of suspense and intuition. For $25 a person—or $30.25, if you want food included— you and your friends will embark on a whodunnit murder mystery that will challenge your brains as you find evidence and crack codes at the Gaslamp Quarter. Be sure to book in advance and have at least six people in your party, and once you arrive, channel your inner Sherlock Holmes to solve the crime!
Champions Balboa Park, the San Diego Winter Brew Fest is an event that the adults—and only the adults—are allowed to enjoy. For up to $60, lucky guests can be part of the VIP session that allows them the first tastes of the brew, while general guests could arrive later for $10 less. VIP or general, it doesn’t really matter, because both are guaranteed an amazing night filled with a wide variety of brews and live music.
GASLAMP HOLIDAY PET PARADE
www.gaslamp.org ¢ On Dec.11, celebrate your
furry, feathered and scaled friends by experiencing a parade at the Gaslamp Quarter. Owners and pets can don their favorite costumes and spread some holiday cheer! There are even a few categories in which owners and pets can win prizes, such as best pet costume, ugliest holiday sweater, best of show and more! If you have a pet, consider dressing up and joining in—$15 in advance, and $20 day of event.
San Diego Chargers vs. Oakland Raiders - Photo by Damien Noble Andrews
LOCALE ndar
SHAOLIN WARRIORS
www.sandiegotheatres.org ¢ Performed by masters of Kung Fu, Shaolin
NEW YEAR’S EVE WEEKEND AT OMNIA NIGHTCLUB
Warriors is a unique production that combines skill, movement and death defying stunts. On Feb.17 this remarkable show will be playing at the Balboa Theatre. Audiences will be captivated as they experience a show unlike any other, a show they will be sure to remember.
www.omnianightclub.com ¢ Kick off 2017 with OMNIA’s New Year’s Eve weekend celebration. Get ready to
dance the night away with electric beats from Dash Berlin (Dec. 30), Eric Dlux (Dec. 31), and headliner Porter Robinson on Jan. 1 as you ring in the new year with style. OMNIA is one of San Diego’s premiere nightclubs, so you know you are in for an epic night!
LITTLE ITALY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY www.littleitalysd.com ¢ On Dec. 3, celebrate the
holiday season in Little Italy. From 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., take photos with Santa Claus, do a little shopping and enjoy arts and crafts fun for the whole family. Don’t miss the main attraction, though, when the Christmas tree is brought to life.
OCEANSIDE HARBOR PARADE OF LIGHTS www.sandiego.org ¢ This December, embrace
the holiday spirit with a parade of lights. Find a good spot and watch fishing boats, kayaks, yachts and more that are decked out in holiday garb circle the Oceanside Harbor. You may even see a few participants dressed up for the occasion as well! Bring your boat, decorate it with lights and join in on the fun!
MOSCOW’S BALLET GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER
www.nutcracker.com ¢ Experience this stunning
MICHAEL LECLERC AT L’AUBERGE DEL MAR
theacousticspot.com/events/ lauberge_-michael-leclerc-2 ¢ On Dec. 2 at 7 p.m., head
to L’Auberge Del Mar to see Michael LeClerc perform. Michael’s acoustic and vocal talent is something you won’t want to miss! Brought to you by The Acoustic Spot, a live music entertainment agency representing only top-notch musicians at upscale venues—No tickets or covers ever!
classic holiday story direct from Russia. At 7 p.m. on Dec. 21, over 40 trained dancers— dressed in handmade costumes—will take the stage for a night the whole family will enjoy. Tickets start at $30, and if you have a group of 10 or more, you will receive a discount, so bring your friends and family for a gorgeous, loved production.
VALENTINE’S DAY 5K
www.valentinesday10k.com ¢ If you don’t have anything
to do this Valentine’s Day, take this time to go for a
run! Register as a couple or individual and receive a bib that reads “available,” “taken” or “it’s complicated.” Dress for the occasion in pinks and reds and have a productive day, even if you’re not in a relationship. Who knows? Maybe Feb. 12 will be a matchmaking day, depending on the bib you’re wearing.
A JOHN WATERS’ CHRISTMAS
HONOR RIDE SAN DIEGO
CATCH AMY SCHUMER LIVE
and join an event that will help both your body and a number of suffering veterans. The Honor Ride is put on under Ride 2 Recovery, whose events aim to improve veterans’ lives by funding rehabilitation services. Participants can show their support by paying the $75 advance fee and riding up to 62 miles. After the ride, participants can enjoy lunch and music.
Center will be hosting a very funny lady on Dec. 3 at 8:00 p.m. Comedian Amy Schumer—the first female comic to headline at Madison Square Garden—will take the stage and entertain audiences with her sharp wit and raunchy humor. For fans of Schumer’s, this performance is not one to miss as it promises to be an evening to remember.
www.ride2recovery.com ¢ On Dec. 3, grab your bicycle
www.valleyviewcasinocenter.com ¢ The Valley View Casino
www.bellyup.com ¢ Join John Waters on Dec.
4, as he gives audiences a holiday themed performance to remember. His one man show—taking place at Belly Up—will poke fun at the holiday season through a night of adult appropriate humor. Get ready to kick off the holidays with a laugh.
BLACK VIOLIN
www.artcenter.org ¢ Experience the art of violin
in a new way as Wil B. and Kev Marcus merge classical music with hip-hop, jazz, blues and R&B. Along with the violinists, DJ TK will apply his turntable skills to further bridge the gap between highbrow and pop culture music. On Feb. 2 at 7:30 p.m., you can experience and enjoy this trio, whether you’re a fan of Bach or Beyoncé.
ROGUE ONE AT CINÉPOLIS www.cinepolisusa.com/la-costa ¢ Just in time for the holidays, Rogue One: A Star Wars
Story comes to Cinépolis on Dec. 16. Starring Felicity Jones, this stand-alone Star Wars Anthology film centers around a group of Rebel spies on a mission to steal the Death Star, the Empire’s ultimate weapon of destruction. LOCALE MAGAZINE | 21
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eat /drink
DEC.
2016
28 EAT EXPERT Get to Know Chef de Cuisine Tyler Nollenberger
34 BUSALACCHI FAMILY Barbusa’s Authentic Italian is Making Our Mouths Water
36 MEALS DECONSTRUCTED Solare Ristorante Brings Sicilian Flavors From the Italian Island
42 MICROBREWERIES Raise a Glass to San Diego’s Craftiest Microbreweries
46 ANDY MASI Founder of Clique Hospitality Gives Insight on the New Pendry Hotel
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EAT EXPERT Well-Seasoned
BANKERS HILL BAR + RESTAURANT 2022 4th Ave San Diego, CA 92101 619.231.0222 www.bankershillsd.com
49 DRINK FEATURE San Diego’s Best Beans Rank Supreme
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DECEMBER 2016
“I’m always looking for the great next seasonal item, the cross-breed fruits and vegetables that no one has ever seen before.” —TYLER NOLLENBERGER
BANKERS HILL BAR + RESTAURANT 2022 4th Ave San Diego, CA 92101 619.231.0222 www.bankershillsd.com
28 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
EAT EXPERT
WELL-SEASONED Bankers Hill Bar + Restaurant’s New Chef de Cuisine Shares His Vision
WRITTEN BY: EMILY TORRES PHOTOGRAPHED BY: EDER ESCAMILLA
THE EXPER T
TYLER NOLLENBERGER Chef de Cuisine, Bankers Hill Bar + Restaurant
Favorite Childhood Memory: Eating his mother’s home cooked meals
Bankers Hill Bar + Restaurant, well-known among the local San Diego crowd for its industrial architecture and customer-favorite Bankers Hill Burger and Truffle Fries, has welcomed a new chef among its ranks—Tyler Nollenberger. Originally beginning his food-industry career as a busboy to get his food into the door of the world of cooking, Nollenberger joined Bankers Hill as Chef de Cuisine after six years at Market Restaurant + Bar, Bankers Hill upscale sister restaurant in Del Mar, under mentor and three-time James Beard nominee, Carl Schroeder. Talking with Nollenberger, his passion for food and seasonal ingredients becomes apparent. An advocate of working your way up and finding innovative ways to work with unique ingredients, Nollenberger aims to transform Bankers Hill into a neighborhood restaurant with a creative menu and satisfying food.
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Q: TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AS A CHEF. Tyler Nollenberger: I started working in restaurants in Santa Cruz when I was 16. I was a busboy, and at 18, I was a server. At 20, I went to culinary school and jumped into cooking right after that. My cooking wages paid for culinary school! I cooked around the Santa Cruz area for a few years and moved to San Diego, where I eventually landed at Market for six years, where I worked my way up to a Sous Chef. Then, this opportunity at Bankers Hill came up. 30 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
Q: What is one rule you learned in culinary school that every home cook should know? TN: Season as you go, and don’t follow recipes. Let your palate guide you. Q: What inspires your dishes and your style? TN: A lot of my inspiration comes from past training, particularly at Market [Restaurant + Bar in Del Mar], but my biggest source of inspiration comes from an understanding of what works, what’s available and seasonal components. When you combine seasonal ingredients and flavor profiles, that’s my inspiration and that’s what makes good food. The beauty of our location [in San Diego] is the abundance of produce, the access to Baja season, the Pacific Northwest, all the farmers markets in Los Angeles… it never ends. I’m always looking for the great next seasonal item, the crossbreed fruits and vegetables that no one has ever seen before. I want to bring these unique ingredients to people at Bankers Hill. Q: What’s your mission and vision for Bankers Hill? TN: We are a neighborhood restaurant working to feed people substantial meals—to feed people in a rustic way and style. I aim to satiate people. I
think that we are ultimately creating cohesive dishes—it doesn’t have to be a particular genre of a particular style of food. It’s about food that tastes good. That’s cool about what we’re doing here at Bankers Hill. Q: What do you bring to Bankers Hill that’s unique? TN: I bring energy, focus and passion. Those things create a spark with everybody, especially the kitchen staff. If they are inspired, then they feel like we’re doing something special, which I think we are. That creates passion with them. Being passionate about what you’re doing goes a long way. It translates into the quality and taste of your food. Q: What is it like working with the award-nominated Carl Schroeder? Is it madness? Fun? Give us the scoop! TN: At this point in my career, I have worked with a lot of chefs. Chef Schroeder has been the one that I have learned the most from. He has been my mentor, and we work really well together. I worked for him at Market in Del Mar for six years, and I have a ton of respect for him as a chef and owner working the trenches, especially at the level he is at. He always demanded extremely high standards. I saw the
“We are a neighborhood restaurant working to feed people substantial meals— to feed people in a rustic way and style. I aim to satiate people.” —TYLER NOLLENBERGER
IN TRODUCIN G B AN K ERS HILL B AR + RESTAURAN T’S N EW B AR MAN AG ER ZACK G RAY: Gray has infused Bankers Hill cocktail menu with herbal and fruit-forward beverages, including two signature cocktails featuring Spirit Works Sloe Gin, a versatile, acidic liquor rarely seen on cocktail lineups. Gray’s sipping recommendation? Gin-based Bees of Bennett Valley. Bankers Hill patrons can find Zack behind the bar Wednesday-Saturday evenings and during Sunday Brunch.
progression of Market throughout the years, and it always continues to get better. He has the ability to push every cook to their highest potential. Q: When you’re not cooking in your own kitchen, what are some spots you like to grab food around SD? TN: Given my hours, I usually eat at late-night places, so I like to dine anywhere that serves until midnight or later. I like going to Convoy to try Yakitori. Around San Diego, I also like Starlite or Izakaya Masa. Q: What excites you about your job? TN: My favorite thing about my job is the challenge. I have created a saying: “Embrace the challenge.” You can’t get mad every time something goes wrong; you have to figure out how to make it right. I also love building a team, finding cooks that believe in what we’re doing and want to be a part of it. Q: What is your favorite dish to cook? (Both on and off the menu!) TN: That’s one of my favorite things about cooking – I never make the same thing twice. Part of the beauty of living in San Diego is the access to so much great produce and seafood. Some days I’ll wake up and say, “I want to make a big salad today.” So I’ll go to Chino Farms’ vegetable stand at Rancho Santa
Fe (they have some of the most amazing produce anywhere) and grab some local yellowtail from the fish market. I’ll take those ingredients and just see where it ends up. Q: Tell me about one of your favorite food memories. TN: I really didn’t like eating out as a kid. I always wanted to stay home and eat because my favorite meals were the ones my mom made. It was very simple food, but always hit the spot. She used to make this dish she called brown rice supreme. It was brown rice, melted cheese, salsa and green onions. Looking back now, I think it’s funny that I liked it so much! Q: Many chefs cook with music. Do you? What’s your cooking soundtrack, if so? TN: I like to cook with music. The music depends on the mood that I’m in. If it’s creative, it is probably opera or Frank Sinatra. If we’re trying to pull everything together and the pace in the kitchen is fast, it’s rock. If we’re in good shape, then we’re listening to old school hip-hop. Q: The one kitchen tool you couldn’t live without? TN: My knife is the only tool I need.
MENU MUST-HAVES Soft Shell Crab Lettuce Wraps: Green PapayaBok Choy Slaw, Lemongrass Vinaigrette, Chili Glaze BBQ Pork Belly Sopes: Jicama Watermelon Salsa, Black Bean Puree, Serrano Chilis Prime Flatiron Steak: Baked Chili Relleno, Sweet Pepper Polenta, Oaxaca Cheese, Broccolini SELECT SIPS: Bees of Bennett Valley: Fennel Pollen Infused Gin, Honey, Lemon, Lavender Bitters Hemingwayish: Rum, Cocchi Rosa, Maraschino Liqueur, Absinthe, Orange Bitters Sucker Punch: Rum, Oleo Saccharum, Spices, Black Tea, Vanilla Bean, Citrus, Clarified Milk
EAT/DRINK
ALL IN THE
FA M I LY The Busalacchi Family’s Latest Restaurant, Barbusa, is Another Member of Their Culinary Family Tree
GOTTA TRY ‘EM ALL
This Restaurant Biz is a Family Affair BUSALACCHI A MODO MIO Hillcrest Chef: Joe Busalacchi
WRITTEN BY: JORDAN LIGONS PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOSIE GONZALES
Must Try: Imbottiti After 30 years, “His Way” has become the fave way that San Diegians do Italian. A Modo Mio’s Imbottiti pasta empasses sliced eggplant, three chesses, pesto, and salsa di pomodoro a.k.a the dream. 3707 5th Ave San Diego, CA 92103 619.298.0119 www.busalacchis.com
TRATTORIA FANTASTICA
When you hear the name Busalacchi, your stomach may begin to growl. We don’t blame you—the family’s name has become a synonym for authentic Italian cuisine in San Diego. Barbusa, the family’s latest Little Italy endeavor, is classic Sicilian with a modern spin, says General Manager and second-generation restaurateur P.J. Busalacchi. “We were a little more open-minded, more creative with the dishes,” Busalacchi says. “We put twists on the foods that we grew-up eating.” When you walk through the open entryway of Barbusa and settle next to a pop-art version of your favorite Italian superstar (think Sophia Loren and Luciano Pavarotti), you must start with their Fiori Di Zucca with tempura squash and apricot Chile jam or opt for the popular Polpette Di Pesce grouper “meatballs,” sugo, and English peas. Wash it down with the refreshing Fresco cocktail equipt with EFFEN Vodka, cucumber, basil and lime juice, and you won’t be disappointed. When their doors opened in mid-June, the community was still getting over the heartbreak of the closing of the beloved Po Pazzo. But, the executive chef—and P.J.’s cousin—Nino Zizzo was there to stay, still bringing a “little crazy” to the current menu. With a total of four restaurants around the city ranging from Northern Italian pasta dishes to classic desserts, P.J. weighed in on how they measure-up: “We have the best cannolis this side of the Mississippi. And you can quote me on that.” Anyone what to challenge this? Didn’t think so. BARBUSA 1917 India St San Diego, CA 92101 619.238.1917 www.barbusa.com 34 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
Little Italy General Manager: Vince Busalacchi Must-Try: Palermitana This country-style, intimate setting is popular for their wood-fired pizzas, but their Palermitana with rigatoni and spicy, wild sausage is what keeps bringing people back for more. 1735 India St San Diego, CA 92101 619.234.1735 trattoriafantastica.com
CAFE ZUCCHERO Little Italy Pastry Chef: Frank Busalacchi Must-Try: Cannolis Attached to Trattoria Fantastica, their full-offlavor cannolis are said to be the best this side of the Mississippi River and a Busalacchi family staple. 1731 India Street San Diego, CA 92101 619.531.1731 cafezucchero.com
When paired with a handÂpicked wine from Tuscany and closed eyes, you’ll easily imagine yourself on a cobbled side street in dreamy Italy.
Pici al Limone e Finto Pesto Ingredients:
Semolina Pici Pasta Basil Lemon Zest Passata Charred Tomatoes Burrata Cheese
36 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
DECONSTRUCTED
MEALS
DECONSTRUCTED
Meals
DECONSTRUCTED
PASTA la VISTA S O L A R E S E R V E S U P A U T H E N T I C , F R E S H S I C I L I A N F L AV O R
WRITTEN BY: MELISSA MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHED BY: EDER ESCAMILLA
SOLARE RISTORANTE 2820 Roosevelt Rd, Liberty Station San Diego, CA 92106 619.270.9670 www.solarelounge.com
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I put a lot of passion into what I’m doing because it’s what I like.”—Chef Accursio Lotà
Q&A EXECUTIVE CHEF, ACCURSIO LOTÀ:
Ravioli di Ricotta e Spinaci Ingredients: Ravioli
Spinach Ricotta Sage Lemon Zest Ricotta Salata
If your palate is craving something of the Italian persuasion, save your airfare and fulfill your taste buds’ desire at Solare Ristorante. Ever since the doors of this family-run eatery opened three and a half years ago, the seats have been flooded with satisfied patrons and Liberty Station has been filled with the pleasing aroma of garlic and homemade dough. Born and raised in Sicily, Chef Accursio Lotà’ now works his culinary magic right here in San Diego, bringing authentic Southern Italian cuisine to the Golden State. You know how when you’re in the mood for pasta, ramen noodles just won’t do? Well, we’re betting that once you’ve had a plate of Chef Accursio’s freshly made, homemade pasta dishes, no other macaroni makers will suffice. If you want to be amazed by the dough delicacies at Solare, give their Ravioli di Ricotta e Spinaci a taste. Chef Accursio’s talent comes to life on the plate with this lemony zest, brown butter drenched delight. Filled with savory spinach and ricotta, Solare’s homemade ravioli truly highlights the intricacies involved in this housemade dish. When paired with a handpicked wine from Tuscany and closed eyes, you’ll easily
Q&A WITH OWNER AND GENERAL MANAGER, RANDY SMERIK: 38 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
imagine yourself on a cobbled side street in dreamy Italy. In the mood for something on the lighter side of the pasta spectrum? Opt for Pici al Limone e Finto Pesto which is a bright, light delectable dish that mimics spaghetti to the untrained tongue. With origins in Tuscany, this handrolled pici pasta is accompanied by burrata cheese, aglio pepperocino, and basil pestoa picture perfect dish for a sunny California day. Sip on Solare’s Tonic for the Times cocktail, which pairs locally made Valor Gin, Hopped Tonic, a dash of bitters and some fresh herbs for a unique twist on the traditional gin and tonic. Being that Sicily is surrounded by water, Solare maintains the oceanic tradition with a wide array of seafood dishes. Of utmost popularity is their Pesce del Giorno which changes with the freshest catch but is always accompanied by roasted artichokes and fingerling potatoes, and topped with pistachio tapenade and spinach, caper, and lemon preserve sauce—buon appetito! While there’s no denying the variety on the menu, Solare’s consistency is their authentic, homemade Sicilian cuisine that offers a taste of Italy right in our backyard.
Q: Where do you draw inspiration for your dishes? Accursio Lotà: It’s important for a chef to respect what’s ‘in season.’ In Sicily, I grew up changing ingredients with the season every few months so that’s something I still bring with me! The mind of a chef works while shopping or working on a farm... it just comes to you! I put a lot of passion into what I’m doing because it’s what I like. Q: What do you do on your days off? Do you spend them cooking or stay out of the kitchen? AL: When I’m not at work I’m with my family and I love to cook at home! I think it’s an important way to spend time with your kids and also ensure that they’re eating healthy foods. Q: Where are your favorite local places to dine? AL: I really like Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub! The chef is very talented and they source all of their fish locally, straight from the fishermen. Q: Dish about your favorite pizza toppings! AL: I like to keep pizza simple. Well done, fireoven prepared, and topped with 34 ingredients... if they’re good, you will remember it! Personally I enjoy pizza with tomato, anchovy, pecorino, red onion and some good extra virgin olive oil! Simple and delicious!
Q: What was your inspiration behind starting Solare? Randy Smerik: We are a family run restaurant that I started with my three sons. We wanted to create a farm to table establishment, where all the pasta is made from scratch everyday.
Q: What are some house specialties and favorites? RS: Our risotto with wild scallops is widely loved and gets a lot of attention. Being Southern Italian, we prepare a lot of seafood dishes.
Q: What does the ambiance say about Solare? RS: Our atmosphere is very natural and organic. Our hardwood floors, large patios, lounge area and wine room combine nicely for an overall warm ambience with soft lighting.
Q: Where do you satisfy your refined palate when you’re not at Solare? RS: I’m a huge fan of Sushi. There’s great place called Sushi Ota that makes great yellowtail sashimi!
We wanted to create a farm to table establishment, where all the pasta is made from scratch everyday.�—Randy Smerik, Owner & General Manager
Pesce del Giorno Ingredients:
Local Catch of the Day Pistachios Black Olives Spinach Potatoes Smoked Tomato Broth
EAT/DRINK
8 OF SAN DIEGO’S BEST
M I C RO B R E WE R I ES Beers to Make You Cheer, “Brew-Hoo!”
WRITTEN BY: JACKIE BRYANT
San Diego has long been touted the craft beer capital of the world and it doesn’t show signs of slowing down anytime soon. Check out our list below, which runs the gamut from breweries that make the West Coast-style super hoppy IPAs that put San Diego on the map to some more off-the-radar spots that are new to the microbrew scene in America’s Finest City.
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g A tasting room offering a full range of food, this place is a local favorite to not just grab beer but also get a bite to eat. They’re known especially for hoppy IPAs. 1517 30th St San Diego, CA 92102 619.610.9038 southparkbrewing.com
g Famous for their Cali Creamin’ Ale, Mother Earth Brew Co. is another must-visit in San Diego County in the North County town of Vista. If a beer version of a cream soda doesn’t inspire you, try one of their Germanstyle beers, which is a style overlooked in Southern California in favor of hoppier brews. 206 Main St Vista, CA 92084 760.726.2273 motherearthbrewco.com
South Park Brewing Company
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Half Door Brewing Company
g A brewery and gastropub all in one, Half Door Brewing Company is in downtown San Diego’s East Village. 903 Island Ave San Diego, CA 92101 619.232.9845 halfdoorbrewing.com 42 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
1
ChuckAlek Independent Brewers
g Ramona is a town in East County known more for farms and even wine, but breweries have been popping up, which is no surprise in San Diego County. 2330 Main Street Ste C Ramona, CA 92065 760.440.5205 chuckalek.com
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Home Brewing Company
PINT SIZED Dan Becker of San Diego’s The Full Pint Tells Us His Go-To Spots Q: What are your top five places to eat/drink beer—at the same time— in San Diego? Dan Becker: Toronado San Diego, Carnitas Snack Shack North Park, Pizza Port Ocean Beach, Phil’s BBQ and Karl Strauss. Q: Tell us how you got started in beer, what you love about it and the industry specifically. DB: Back in 2007, nobody was offering a safe platform for craft brewers to share their news and event info. Out of boredom of working in the IT industry, I began cold calling breweries to send news and event info to. My college buddy Jonny and I began The Full Pint and the rest is history.
g A local favorite for the good beers and knowledgeable staff, Home Brewing Company’s tasting room can be found in North Park on El Cajon Boulevard. 2911 El Cajon Blvd Ste 2 San Diego, CA 92104 619.450.6165 homebrewingco.com
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Nickel Beer Company
Mother Earth Brew Co.
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Mike Hess Brewing
g Mike Hess Brewing is the eponymous brewery that’s known for being the OG in the most craft beer-friendly neighborhood in San Diego: North Park. Their first tasting room and brewing operations are at their Miramar location, and they recently opened up a lively tasting room in Ocean Beach. 3812 Grim Ave San Diego, CA 92104 619.255.7136 mikehessbrewing.com
g Nickel Beer Company also hails from East County in Julian. If you’re unsure what to order, get the taster, which comes on a cookie tray. 1485 Hollow Glen Rd Julian, CA 92036 760.765.2337 nickelbeerco.com
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Abnormal Beer Company
g San Diego County’s first brewery, winery, and gourmet restaurant under the same roof, Abnormal Beer Company offers an experience far from average. 16990 Via Tazon San Diego, CA 92127 858.618.2463 abnormalbeer.co
Q: When you’re not drinking beer, what are you doing? DB: When I’m not drinking beer, I love to cook or watch cooking on TV. If it paid better, or Southern California wasn’t so expensive, I’d be a chef for a living. Q: Do you have an alltime favorite beer? DB: While I drink IPA more than anything, my favorite beer ever is Noble Ale Works Naughty Sauce. It’s a golden milk stout with tons of fresh coffee. Simply amazing. Q: What’s next for beer in San Diego? DB: I think the fine folks of San Diego will see many more breweries open, with the goal of having every citizen of the city have a brewery within walking distance of their house. Everyone will have access to locally made and fresh beer. San Diego gets it, and will be a model for other beer scenes nation wide.
EAT/DRINK
“We are catering to our sophisticated traveler who wants to hang out but doesn’t want the craziness of big nightclubs.”—Andy Masi
Lighting UP THE GASLAMP
San Diego’s Newest Luxury Hotel Brings an Elevated Nightlife Experience WRITTEN BY: EMILY TORRES PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NICK ISABELLA
With over 100 restaurants, galleries, shops, bars and clubs, San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter is at the heart of the city’s cultural and nightlife scenes. The downtown epicenter’s newest resident—Pendry San Diego—is adding to this thriving reputation. Pendry, which opens its doors early 2017, is the newest brand in the Montage Hotel & Resorts family designed for the modern day luxury traveler. With over 300 guestrooms, a luxury spa and six restaurants and bars (including a rooftop pool!), Pendry San Diego will be the Gaslamp’s newest place to be for locals and travelers alike. Leading up to the hotel’s debut, Pendry San Diego collaborated with one of San Diego and Las Vegas’ most esteemed restaurant and nightlight innovators, Andy Masi, Founder of Clique Hospitality Group, who is behind signature projects such as luxury lounges, top restaurants, nightclubs and other venues at Las Vegas’ Bellagio, The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas and Miami’s Delano Hotel. Masi gave us a sneak peek into San Diego’s new modern luxe hotel and what guests can expect from Pendry San Diego soon. Pendry’s uniquely San Diego vibe is evident with the venue’s seafood specialty restaurant and craft beer hall, a rooftop pool so guests can take advantage of sunny Southern California weather and multiple venues that cultivate a “cool, different beat”
for upscale, fun evenings spent eating and drinking with friends. Lionfish, Pool House and Oxford Social Club are just a few among Pendry San Diego’s unique venues. Additional spaces in the hotel include an elevated cocktail lounge, a German bier hall with a California craft beer twist decked out with large TVs, vintage bar games and industrial décor, a boutique spa that offers meditation and yoga courses and a space for gourmet coffee, dining and boutique shopping.
LIONFISH RESTAURANT Pendry’s two-level coastal cuisine restaurant will be led by renowned Chef JoJo Ruiz, who was marked among Eater’s 2015 “Young Guns.” Lionfish’s dinner-only menu will be driven by local, seasonal ingredients served alongside highend handcrafted cocktails. Meals will be offered family-style and as entrees.
Masi recommends guests conclude their evenings at Oxford Social Club, Pendry San Diego’s elevated nightlife venue inspired by clubs from older eras. The venue features an innovative cocktail menu, alongside banquette seating, plush furnishings and art installations.
OXFORD SOCIAL CLUB
“San Diego is a fun place to hang out, but there’s not many places with intimacy and conversation. Oxford gives this; it’s a bar with the vibe of a club,” says Masi. “There’s incredible bars around the world—New York, Miami, Los Angeles—that are sophisticated without blaring loud music. Most people don’t get to experience that in San Diego, and San Diego was ready for that as the city matured. We are catering to our sophisticated traveler who wants to hang out but doesn’t want the craziness of big nightclubs.”
Oxford Social Club will offer guests an elevated nightlife experience inspired by clubs from bygone eras. Oxford features worldclass cocktails and soulful music among intimate seating, plush furnishings and art installations.
POOL HOUSE
Pendry San Diego’s opening date has yet to be released, but Masi promises the hotel’s debut to be a “must-attend” event. READ MORE ONLINE!
PENDRY 550 J Street San Diego, CA 92101 619.738.7000 www.pendryhotels.com/san-diego 46 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
Check out the full story on Localemagazine.com!
Towering four stories above downtown San Diego, Pool House is an outdoor oasis that features private cabanas, Bermuda chaise lounge chairs and local DJs. The outdoor venue will be open during both the day and evening.
D R I N K F E AT U R E
e f i l g u
m
A ROUNDUP OF THE TRENDIEST COFFEE SHOPS SAN DIEGO HAS TO OFFER
WRITTEN BY: JEANNETTE SWANSON
PHOTOGRAPHED BY: EVAN TIPTON
BETTER BUZZ COFFEE 578 S Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas, CA 92024 760.487.5562 www.betterbuzzcoffee.com
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This brand is best described as craft coffee done extremely well, but made quickly.
The production and sale of coffee has evolved over time and we’re now seeing a surge of the Third Wave. The Third Wave of coffee production most closely resembles art, more specifically, a form of art that is specialized on numerous levels. This new art form is concerned with ethical direct trade practices, a personal relationship with the farm from which the beans derive and new trends such as the Cold Brew and pour-over methods. The coffee houses you’ll meet here have stand-out Cold Brew, practices and vibes that are virtually unmatched. San Diego is a burgeoning coffee culture and these elite coffee houses are helping coffee drinkers move past the big box chains. 50 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
MUST HAVE
Holsem Coffee g You’re no longer asked to choose between coffee and a beverage with hops because Holsem Coffee now holds a beer and wine license. This is another coffee house that will draw people in with their clean lines and marble countertops and keep them coming back for their extensive menu. holsemcoffee. com
best drink ever
BETTER BUZZ COFFEE With six locations spanning from North County to Point Loma, each location does a fine job of matching its unique branded identity to whichever sector of San Diego they’ve planted roots in. Their most popular drink storewide is naturally their Best Drink Ever, a beverage that has the basics of a traditional Americano, but is actually comprised of their Black Magic Espresso and Creamy Vanilla Powder. For something unique to their Encinitas location, the Iced Gibraltar is a fine marriage between a cocktail and espresso. Their flavors are bold, but not in a manner that’s overwhelming. In a blind taste test, one would immediately identify a buzzed cup. This brand is best described as craft coffee done extremely well, but made quickly. Stay tuned for two new locations coming to San Diego County in 2017. 578 S Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas, CA 92024 760.487.5562 betterbuzzcoffee.com
MUST HAVE
cappuccino
COFFEE & TEA COLLECTIVE Modernists are sure to unite at Coffee & Tea Collective. The simplistic, yet elegant nature of their two storefronts is nothing short of inspiring. The East Village location is a bit edgier, but an exceptional cappuccino is cupped no matter which storefront suits your personality. Followers can even take some loving home in the form of a 64 oz Cold Brew Growler. What’s clear is this establishment’s commitment to quality ingredients and new drinks that help keep the menu fresh and exciting. Coffee & Tea Collective also stresses the importance of sourcing their coffees and the manner in which they are brewed—intentionality is a must at this establishment. PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: NORTH PARK 2911 El Cajon Blvd San Diego, CA 92104 619.564.8086
EAST VILLAGE 631 Ninth Ave San Diego, CA 92101 619.564.8086 coffeeandteacollective.com
Revolution Roasters g Lucky for us Revolution Roasters’ most popular drinks are their seasonal selections. The Butterscotch Latte with its homemade sauce and espresso is their answer to your holiday craving and the Lavender Honey Latte will please not just one of your senses. Here, it’s not just about a needed jolt of caffeine, it’s about a pleasurable experience to carry you through the entire day, even after the caffeine wears off. revoroasters. com
supertonic
MUST HAVE
the
HAWTHORN COFFEE
Lofty Coffee
What’s clear is this establishment’s commitment to quality ingredients and new drinks that help keep the menu fresh and exciting.
g This gem can be found in Encinitas and Solana Beach and is expected to start cupping their organic coffee practices in Little Italy this winter. Lofty Coffee is all about options and coffee sippers may ask for their coffee milk to be substituted with almond, soy or cashew milk. They even create their own almond milk.
Hawthorn Coffee has made quite an impression in the short year they’ve been in business. With a convenient location in the Normal Heights area, a retro-esque green tile wraps around the base of the quaint storefront and two simplistic wooden benches invite you to stay a while. Founded by father and son coffee connoisseurs, they’ve carefully selected three stellar roasters to feature in their regular line-up. With an expert set of baristas, their Cold Brew on Nitro and lattes are a sure thing and their pour over menu is so vast that it changes monthly. They’ve even got a funky “fun stuff” menu that’s comprised of out-ofthe-box drink items like the Cascara Fizz and the Cold Brew and Lemonade. But, their newest drink, The Supertonic, is espresso over fever tree tonic water with a dash of blood orange bitters. Yum! 3019 Adams Ave San Diego, CA 92116 619.501.4882 hawthorncoffee.com
loftycoffee. com
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From just one visit you’ll learn that they march to their own drum and occasionally showcase their personality through quirky printed tee shirts.
CUP OF CONVERSATION Q&A WITH COFFEE AND C O N V O S ’ A LY S S A M O P I A
Q: How and why did Coffee and Convos get started? Alyssa Mopia: Coffee & Convos combines my growing love for specialty coffee and passion for connecting with others. It all started because I would find so many great artists, photographers, entrepreneurs, doers, and dreamers over Instagram and I instantly wanted to meet them and hear more of their story. When I would reach out and they would agree to meet, it would be over coffee. It didn’t become an idea to create this platform until much later when I realized how much people’s stories inspired me and I thought why not create something that takes this a step further and instead of keeping these stories to myself, find a way to share it with others to inspire them as well. Q: How does the gathering of people over coffee support the art of conversation? AM: I believe the best conversations happen over coffee, or any beverage for that matter. But there is something incredibly satisfying having that familiarity of your favorite coffee drink crafted especially for you in your hand while enjoying someone else’s company. It easily creates an intimate setting to have these conversations with people, especially because they tend to reveal more a vulnerable side to their story that isn’t necessarily shared through Instagram photos or social media that we would normally see.
Q: Can you share some positivity/connections that have come about because of these gatherings? AM: The website officially launched in June and we had a launch party at Heartwork Coffee Bar with some amazing coffee, delicious pies from Pop Pie Co. and the good people we had featured on Coffee & Convos. Some of those people include Kelsey Christine who created beautiful watercolor pieces, KyLynn Richey who did lettering over coffee photos, and Aaron Wolf who had a live performance. It was such a fun event and it was great seeing everyone come by and connect over coffee and conversations. It was awesome seeing how people would recognize one another through the Coffee & Convos we featured. One interaction that stood out the most to me was when Julie, a photographer I’ve admired for quite some time was wondering if my friend Xavier, another photographer, would be there since I had featured him in Coffee & Convos in the past. So taking that interaction that initially started through social media and introducing them to each other in person at the event and having them talk as if they’ve been friends for so long was by far one of the best moments I’ve seen because of Coffee & Convos. Connecting with these great artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs for Coffee & Convos has allowed me to not only share their story, but also cultivate some amazing friendships from them.
www.coffeeandconvos.com @coffeeandconvos 52 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
MUST HAVE
cold brew iced coffee
DARK HORSE COFFEE ROASTERS The folks at Dark Horse Coffee Roasters love their regular customers and it’s very likely they refer to them as their binding thread. If you’re anywhere near Golden Hill, Normal Heights or North Park, you or yourself and a group of friends have got to stop by for some beans that are ran through a Diedrich IR-12. In North Park you’ve got this fantastic space with large wooden tables and an open, windowless view of the bustle on the street outside. The other two locations are just as fascinating and it’s quite clear that their Cold Brew Iced Coffee dominates the sales. Their straightforward menu sure doesn’t need frilly ingredients for the drinks to fly off the roaster. From just one visit you’ll learn that they march to their own drum and occasionally showcase their personality through quirky printed tee shirts.
PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: NORMAL HEIGHTS 3260 Adams Ave San Diego, CA 92116 619.344.6962 NORTH PARK 3794 30th St San Diego, CA 92104 619.955.7447 GOLDEN HILL 811 25th St San Diego, CA 92102 619.344.0500 darkhorsecoffeeroasters.com
Alyssa Mopia - Photo by Leslie Colon
Q: How exactly do the gatherings work and how often do you meet? AM: I have these gatherings one on one with individuals at a local coffee shop. I generally reach out to people a few weeks in advance and plan accordingly. Usually on my days off, I can meet 2 to 3 people a day. And sometimes I find myself
meeting with people before work as well. It can happen as often as having Coffee & Convos every day one week, then other times I will only have a few the next week. It’s just so neat that these incredible and talented individuals are willing to take time from their schedule to meet and chat about their story over coffee, and that’s not only what motivates me but makes each interaction unique and a lot of fun!
MUST HAVE
pumpkin spice latte
S W E L L C O F F E E C O. Swell Coffee Co. has two retail locations and a thriving roasting business. Come for the cool beachy vibes that can be found on the patio at the Mission Beach location or at the Flower Hill location that provides easy access for those traveling the 5 freeway in Del Mar. Between the two, a hefty 300 to 700 cups are served per day. Their Cold Brew is highly sought after, but their fall and winter specialty pumpkin spice latte is a smashing hit. Made with squash that’s more pumpkin-y than an actual pumpkin, this warmer appropriately says ta-ta to summer. And for a little flavor from just off the southeast coast of Africa, try the Vanilla Bean that’s made with the Madagascar vanilla bean. The beans here are treated to a jaunt through The Loring, which is in the running for being the greatest coffee maker known to man. Your coffee will be splendid and you can expect the utmost satisfaction since each drink on the menu has a specific formula that’s been perfected after extensive testing. PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: DEL MAR 2670 Via De La Valle Del Mar, CA 92014 858.925.7297
MISSION BEACH 3833 Mission Blvd San Diego, CA 92109 858.539.0039 swellcoffeeco.com
Bean Bar g Aside from being close neighbors with Petco Park in the East Village, Bean Bar serves another tasty Housemade Cold Brew and a Cold Brew with homemade vanilla syrup. Owners and former Portland residents Sandra Scheller and Jason Serres feature 49th Parallel, a roaster out of Vancouver that has been named one of the Top Roasters in the World. sdbeanbar. com
Honorable Mention: COMMUNAL COFFEE
The beans here are treated to a jaunt through The Loring, which is in the running for being the greatest coffee maker known to man.
g Communal Coffee is not just a coffee shop, they also sell flowers inside. Pick up your morning coffee on the go and grab a bouquet of flowers from Native Poppy for your love bug while you’re at it! With an incredibly trendy vibe, boasting bear skin rugs and clean design, this is a spot to bring all your friends. 2335 University Ave San Diego, CA 92104 619.363.7737 communalcoffee.com
PHOTO BY: Bradley Blackburn
style
/beauty
DEC.
2016
56 STYLE EXPERT Vanessa Matsalla on Creating a Chic “Lived-In” Home
60 CAMPING DECONSTRUCTED Get Ready to Put the ‘Glam’ in ‘Glamping’
62 FASHION SPREAD Experience These High-Fashion Bare Essentials
74 MONIKER GENERAL Moniker General Creates Conversation Over Retail and Coffee
77 THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID
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La Jolla Through the Eyes of the Woman Who Knows Best: “La Jolla Mom”
CAMPING DECONSTRUCTED Survival Kit
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DECEMBER 2016
STUDIO MATSALLA 2699 State Street Carlsbad, CA 92006 760.683.9508 www.studiomatsalla.com
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STYLE EXPERT
Artisan of CALIFORNIA COOL Vanessa Matsalla Creates the Ultimate Hip and Relaxed Home
WRITTEN BY: TYLER HOLLAND PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JULIE JONES
THE EXPER T
VANESSA MATSALLA Principal Designer, Owner of Studio Matsalla
Inspiration: Japanese and Scandinavian minimalist design
Have you ever watched HGTV and dreamed of living in a showroom quality space that leaves you in awe every time you step into the room? Us too. However, achieving this look is harder than it seems and many hit roadblocks and get discouraged. It’s easy to come up with a vision, but pulling it off is another story. That’s where interior designers like our style expert Vanessa Matsalla comes in. Before you know it, the super cool living space of your dreams can become a reality in your own home.
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“She wanted someone with virtually no experience who she could mentor. I took everything in for five years and it turned out to be the perfect fit.” —Vanessa Matsalla
Q: Describe your design style. VM: Relaxed, California cool that feels hip and sophisticated at the same time. I tend to avoid “designer-y” things like tons of accessories that don’t make areas looked lived in. I like lived-in spaces.
Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
Vanessa Matsalla: I went to school for computer animation and dreamed of working for Pixar. However, I realized how competitive the field was and ended up getting intimidated. I decided to pursue a business degree since it seemed like the most versatile option, ended up working for a biotech company and hated it. Again, I decided to try something new and dove into interior designing. Despite not having the traditional design school background, I got hired by this lady who was the principle designer for her company. That non-traditional background turned out to be exactly what she was looking for. She wanted someone with virtually no experience who she could mentor. I took everything in for five years and it turned out to be the perfect fit. 58 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
Q: What process do you go through when helping clients create the perfect space? VM: Every client is so different. It’s a matter of me trying to figure out how they work and what they like. Some are quick to take on new ideas and concepts, while others take some convincing. I lay out a bunch of concepts to see how clients respond to my aesthetic. After that, it’s tons of shopping followed by the install. Q: Are there pieces you would generally recommend avoiding or not spending a lot on? VM: I would recommend avoiding really bright colored furniture. All of your core focus pieces should be neutral. You’ll be married to your statement pieces for a while after you purchase them. You don’t want anything you’ll get sick of in a year or two. Keep it neutral and classic and add accessories to change things up every once in awhile. Q: What advice would you give to those who want to break into the interior design industry? VM: Today, anyone can be a designer. Have no fear. I’ve met people who waited until they had the most education they could get before finally delving into what they loved. If you’re passionate about it, just jump into it! Don’t have an ego, don’t be afraid to fail (because it will happen) and don’t be overly competitive. Be more competitive with yourself if anything. Also try to find someone great in the industry and study under them. Q: When looking for items and inspiration do you lean more towards the style of any specific country? VM: Japanese, Scandinavian and minimalist design is always great. There is also a lot
of cool stuff coming out of Australia, which has been hard to access until recently. Freight and shipping have been too expensive in the past but new deals that allow countries to ship to states such as Pennsylvania have made products more accessible. New audiences are now being exposed to the fresh and new products coming from the Australian market. Q: Are there advantages to using globally sourced products versus local? VM: Globally sourcing items helps create a more unique look. I also look for compelling stories behind products that show why the piece is special. I love supporting global artisans who don’t normally have access points to people like me. I also support local artisans that do great work in areas such as woodcrafts and art. In general, I wouldn’t say globally sourcing products creates an advantage, but I’d say there are a lot of pros to it. Q: How big of a role do you see technology playing in interior design? VM: I see technology playing a huge role. It helps sell an idea so much more than verbal descriptions alone. When we give a 3D rendering of what a client’s kitchen will look like, it’s an immediate sell. It lets clients see that our ideas actually look good. We can pitch new ideas and designs clients may not have previously considered and prove visually how beautiful the idea is. Technology speeds up the process and displays the vision much more efficiently. Q: And how has the introduction of the e-design service changed your business? VM: E-design is nice because you can take on clients that don’t have time to take on bigger projects, but besides that, I haven’t noticed any changes in my business because of it. It has, however, changed the industry as a whole. People who couldn’t get design services before can now access them so more people can now create beautiful living environments.
5 Ways to Brighten Up a Space With Limited Natural Light 1. Paint walls white 2. Hang window treatments as high as you can. I usually hang them 4-6 inches above the window frame which makes the space feel so much taller. It’s one of the biggest tricks in interior designing. 3. Use mirrors to make spaces feel bigger 4. Take a minimalist approach and get rid of clutter 5. Paint the ceiling white Top 5 Pieces to Create an Airy Beach Vibe 1. Jute rugs 2. Use of light textiles such as white or sheer curtains 3. Lighter colored paints 4. Use blankets and baskets as accessories and textiles 5. Artwork from Gray Malin
STYLE/BEAUTY JUICE Oh! Juice $75 for 6 ohjuicecleanse.com
EYEGLASSES CASE Fern $24 shopfern.us/pages/fern-san-diego
BARS Perfect Bar $24 for 8 pack perfectbar.com
MUGS The Created Co. $16.95 thecreated.co
JOURNAL Fern $20 shopfern.us/pages/ fern-san-diego
SUNSCREEN Coola $32 coolasuncare.com
WATERBOTTLE Takeya ThermoFlask 18oz $24.99 takeyausa.com
CEDAR FLASK Fern $40 shopfern.us/pages/ fern-san-diego
BLANKET Wild Dove Boutique $128 wilddovesd.com WHISKEY The Balvenie DoubleWood Aged 12 Years 750 mL us.thebalvenie.com
IPA BEER Green Flash Soul Style IPA $9.99 for 6* Greenflashbrew.com
JERKY Krave Jerky 3.25oz $7 kravejerky.com
COFFEE Coffee Coffee $9.50 Coffeecoffeeleucadia.com
COCONUT + MINT MIST Fern $24 shopfern.us/pages/fern-san-diego
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BACKPACK Bradley Mountain The Wilder Backpack $449 bradleymountain.com
survival CAMP STOP, DON’T STOP
PHOTOGRAPHED BY: BRADLEY BLACKBURN STYLED BY: JACLYN KERSHEK
* Prices may vary by location
A L L T H AT G L I T T E R S I S
G O H I G H - FA S H I O N W I T H T H E S E D I A M O N D S I N T H E B U F F
PHOTOGRAPHED BY: BRADLEY BLACKBURN STYLED BY: REBECCA ARAOZ HAIR BY: SONIA RESHETNIKOVA Â MAKEUP BY: BRI OROZCO MODEL: OLIVIA JORDAN OF NEWMARK MODELS, newmarkmodels.com
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OLIVIA JORDAN
FORMER MISS USA 2015
PESAVENTO ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Traditional Jewelers www.traditionaljewelers.com
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WATCHES PROVIDED BY: Rolex Boutique by Baron & Leeds at South Coast Plaza
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PESAVENTO ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Traditional Jewelers www.traditionaljewelers.com
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WATCHES PROVIDED BY: The Watch Connection www.watchconnection.com
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ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Swiss Watch Gallery & Fine Jewelers The Shops at Mission Viejo www.swisswatchgallery.com
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ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Alber Rezko Jewelry Designs www.alberrezko.com
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STYLE/BEAUTY
MONIKER GENERAL 2860 Sims Rd San Diego, CA 92106 619.255.8772 monikergeneral.com
WHAT’S IN A NAME? MONIKER GENERAL Brings Liberty Station Community Together
Moniker General is one of three buildings apart of Moniker. The other two buildings that exist are Moniker Group, which focuses on commercial interior design, and Moniker Warehouse, an office space that encompasses about 20 different business, ranging from design firms to surfboard shapers. Ryan Sisson started Moniker seven years ago with Moniker Made. Then Sisson made his company grow by implementing a Warehouse; He had a dream to create a space where people could gather as a community and start conversations over a cup of coffee or beer.
WRITTEN BY: JAYME O’HANLON PHOTOGRAPHED BY: MARIUSZ JEGLENSKI 74 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
In May, this dream became a reality through Moniker General. Located in Liberty Station, Moniker General serves as the retail front. Moniker Coffee Company is home to Moniker General, whereas 32 North Brewing is a vendor
partnered with Moniker. Not only does the store sell drinks and pastries, but also products from other vendors. Bradley Mountain, Rose & Fitzgerald, Tether Made, and HOLD are a few of the brands Moniker General sells. The store chooses vendors based upon sharing similar values; a purpose exists behind the makings of the goods and the conversations among the consumers: to elevate people, such as empowering female employment in Uganda. The store also sells their own furniture from Moniker Made. They’ve made the tables and shelving in which the products are sold upon. This is one way the store promotes their custom furniture. Moniker General is designed for people moreover the various brands they sell; the retail associates are not there to make commission, but rather to start a meaningful conversation with those who walk through the door.
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE: BARRACK23, the building in which Moniker General uses, used to be the 23rd naval training barrack, built in the 1920s.
BEST BEANS Moniker Coffee Company features lattes and espressos made from Copa Vida beans, which come from Costa Rica and Brazil. Their drinks range from salted caramels to lavender brown sugars. A variety of teas and pastries are available as well.
T H AT ' S W H AT S H E S A I D
mother
KNOWS BEST
ALL APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Lola, shoplola.com
How to Explore La Jolla, According to Katie Dillon of “La Jolla Mom”
WRITTEN BY: KATIE DILLON PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NICK ISABELLA STYLED BY: JACLYN KERSHEK HAIR & MAKEUP BY: LISA LEEDY
lajollamom.com @lajollamom
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CODY’S LA JOLLA
ALL APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Lola shoplola.com
LOLA CODY’S LA JOLLA
This year, spend a day holiday shopping in La Jolla. Start in the village neighborhood where it’s easy to walk between some of San Diego’s best boutiques to find thoughtful gifts for everyone on your list. You’ll pass by street art, marvel at ocean views, hear our famous seals and take in other sights along the way. Planning time to eat is also a must. We have juice bars and cafés, a historic beach cottage restaurant perched over the Cove, mind-blowing artisanal cheese boards and lobster rolls to rival the East Coast. And, that’s not to mention awardwinning wine lists and perfectly mixed craft cocktails. Here are some suggestions for where to go. 78 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
WHISKNLADLE
Hundreds of scones fly off of the shelves every day in flavors ranging from multigrain to cranberry.
BRICK & BELL
LOLA
7444 Girard Avenue La Jolla, CA 92037 858.230.7444 shoplola.com
Ò Nestled in the more peaceful section of upper Girard Avenue, Lola showcases fashion from top brands like Vince, L’Agence, Heidi Merrick, Cinq à Sept, Claire V., Oni Denim and more. Between Dita sunglasses, handcrafted Miansai bracelets and stunning clutches, it’s a perfect stop for holiday gifts for her. Look out for the locally-made Thatch constellation pendants made with 14k gold vermeil, sterling silver and small diamonds which can be layered with other necklaces. Lola also offers styling services for those who need the perfect head-to-toe holiday outfit.
CODY’S LA JOLLA 8030 Girard Ave La Jolla, CA 92037 858.459.0040 codyslj.com
Ò The same menu is served all day at Cody’s La Jolla and so are views of La Jolla Cove from the patio. This means breakfast for dinner or even something out of the ordinary like a Maine lobster roll for breakfast. Cody’s is also known for sparkling wine drinks like the Blueberry
Basil Lime spritzers that pair well with Awesome French Toast and Veggie Hash.
WHISKNLADLE 1044 Wall St La Jolla, CA 92037 858.551.7575 whisknladle.com
Ò Stop here for a craft cocktail and lunch or dinner from their fabulous seasonal comfort food menu made with mostly locally-sourced ingredients. Soul-soothing winter favorites include the likes of hand cut chestnut pasta with local lobster meat as well as arugula and persimmon salad. Almost everything is made in house from scratch so do not skip the cutting board appetizer (available year round) full of house made pickles, artisan cheeses and house cured meats.
BRICK & BELL CAFÉ 928 Silverado St La Jolla, CA 92037 858.551.0928
Ò Tucked away in a brick house that is over 100 years old, Brick & Bell is a popular spot for coffee and scones. Hundreds of scones—mini and full-sized—fly off of the shelves every day in flavors ranging from multigrain to cranberry. If you’re an early bird, this spot is for you as it’s one of the only places open at 4:30 a.m. They also make a pretty tasty acai bowl.
Green Machines Ò La Jollans love their juice, so when it’s time for liquid greens, try Juice Crafters on Silverado or Beaming in the La Plaza La Jolla shopping center.
Warwick’s Ò A stop into the nation’s oldest family owned and operated bookstore is a must. In addition to a robust selection of easy-to-browse books, Warwick’s is a go-to for gift buying. Here, shoppers find unique and colorful jewelry, a wide variety of pens, housewares and even toys for the kids.
Hey, Hi, Hello Ò Hi Sweetheart is a fantastic gift boutique chock-full of hand-picked, cool and contemporary books, party supplies, trinkets, totes, California themed decor and so much more. Go here for hostess gifts and stocking stuffers.
BROCKTON VILLA SWEET PAPER
BROCKTON VILLA
SWEET PAPER
Ò Brockton Villa is located inside one of La Jolla’s original beach cottages across the street from La Jolla Cove. This means dining in a cozy atmosphere amid sweeping views of the Pacific and ocean breezes with mimosas in-hand. It’s most popular for breakfast or brunch and a must-order item on the menu is the Coast Toast (thick cut slices of French bread soaked in whipping cream, orange Curaçao and other goodness). However, you can’t go wrong with Breakfast Tacos or Crab Ipanema Benedict.
Ò Sweet Paper is where La Jollans and those in the know go get holiday cards, invitations and other beautiful custom letterpress stationery printed. It’s also a great stop for the times when you’re not sure what sort of gift to buy because they stock a myriad of fun items including boxed stationery sets, jewelry, beautiful candles, festive matchsticks and Kate Spade calendars. Look out for the cool set of 100 letterpress La Jolla coasters featuring popular beaches.
1235 Coast Blvd La Jolla, CA 92037 858.454.7393 brocktonvilla.com
7660-A Fay Ave La Jolla, CA 92037 858.456.1446 sweet-paper.com
George’s Ocean Terrace Ò This is where many La Jollans take out-of-town guests as the relaxed open-air terrace and amazing California cuisine embodies the San Diego lifestyle. It’s one of the best places to grab a fish taco—San Diego’s famous dish—and a craft cocktail while
overlooking the ocean. Native Knowledge: Ò Street parking in La Jolla is free, though timed by the hour. If planning to spend the day, consider one of the paid parking lots or the valet on Prospect in front of George’s at the Cove.
ALL APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Lola, shoplola.com
This means dining in a cozy atmosphere amid sweeping views of the Pacific and ocean breezes with mimosas in-hand.
PHOTO BY: Tracy Leboe
go /do
DEC.
2016
84 NORTH PARK How to Spend 24 Hours in One of SD’s Favorite Neighborhoods
86 COVER STORY Antonio Gates Reveals What Drives Him to Be His Best
92 HUMANITARIAN PROFILE Hernán Luis y Prado Gets Military Veterans Into the Workforce With Workshops for Warriors
96 PAIGE ALMS Paige Alms is Making Waves in Big-Wave Surfing
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PAIGE ALMS Big-Wave Warrior
PAIGE ALMS @paigealms PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION Maui, HI
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DECEMBER 2016
GO/DO
WALK IN THE PARK Spend 24 Hours With Us in North Park
8:30 A.M.
9:30 A.M.
LODGING
Ò The historic Gaslamp Quarter downtown is a 10-minute drive from North Park. The US Grant is a luxury hotel in the center of the Gaslamp district that has served as an iconic landmark since 1910. 326 Broadway usgrant.net
Downward Dog Ò Set an intention during a power flow class that brings together yogis of all practice levels ($18 drop-in rate) at Pilgrimage of the Heart Yoga. 3800 30th St pilgrimageyoga.com
Coffee & Pastries Ò Fuel up for the day on the patio of Cardamom Cafe and Bakery, known for its Pumpkin Winner Roll that took top honors in a cinnamon roll competition in 2015. 2977 Upas St cardamomsandiego.com
WRITTEN BY: KAI OLIVER-KURTIN
The distinct charm of San Diego is greater than the sum of its neighborhoods, but is perhaps defined by the unique subculture that exists with their convergence. The once up-and-coming neighborhood of North Park is now regarded as one of the hippest ‘hoods—known for its breweries, lively nightlife, farm-to-table restaurants and trendy shops.
10:00 A.M.
Shopping Ò Get the perfect look for your special occasion at Mimi & Red, where you’ll shop the latest trends in women’s fashion, jewelry and beauty products. Find casual, beachy apparel, home goods and accessories at Aloha Beach Club . 3041 University Ave mimiandred.com 3039 University Ave alohabeachclub.com
NOON
Brunch Ò Enjoy brunch made by former Top Chef contestant Rich Sweeney at Waypoint Public. Try the spinach and avocado scramble or Cocoa Krispies brioche French toast ($11). Choose from adult beverages ($5-$6) like the pineapple mimosa or more than 30 craft beers on tap. Waypoint Public is a familyfriendly restaurant with a children’s play area inside the dining room. 3794 30th St waypointpublic.com 84 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
1:30 P.M.
Pampering Ò For a little afternoon pampering, head to Hello Birdie for eyebrow/eyelash service or a creative mani/ pedi while enjoying a complimentary glass of champagne. Guys should stop by Mister Brown’s barber shop for a hair cut, trim or hot shave. 3032 University Ave hellobirdielab.com 3064 University Ave misterbrowns.com
3 P.M.
Art Exhibit Ò Admire an art show at Art Produce, where a new exhibit is installed every six to eight weeks. The Art Produce building also has a garden and cafe. 3139 University Ave artproduce.org
4 P.M.
Happy Hour Ò At The Office cocktail lounge you’ll enjoy halfpriced drinks during daily happy hour from 4 - 7 p.m. Try a Don Draper or a Whistleblower ($9) while listening to classic tunes from the likes of Frank Sinatra in their 1960s era office environment. 3936 30th St theofficebarsd.com
6 P.M.
Fine Dining Ò Nosh on local, organic ingredients during dinner at French & American bistro Smoking Goat. Try the butternut squash ravioli ($15), New York steak frites ($32) and goat cheese cheesecake ($9) and order from their extensive wine list. 3408 30th St thesmokinggoatrestaurant.com
Ò The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows is only a mile from the heart of North Park. If you’re there during summer, make time for their poolside entertainment where you’ll see live bands, DJs and maybe even a mermaid. 2223 El Cajon Blvd lafayettehotelsd.com
ANTONIO THE GREAT ANTONIO GATES ON CHASING THE RECORD, HOW DETROIT SHAPED HIM, AND HOW HIS FAMILY MOLDS HIM
WRITTEN BY: JORDAN LIGONS PHOTOGRAPHY BY: TRAVIS MCCOY
Eight time Pro-Bowler? CHECK. Five time All-Pro? CHECK. In the 10,000 yards club? CHECK. Best Tight End in NFL History? Well, he’s not finished yet.
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“I wanted to make a difference, I wanted to be different and I had an opportunity to.” —Antonio Gates
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It’s Qualcomm stadium on a warm July day and Antonio Gates is lacing up his cleats to head out onto the field, helmet in hand with the yellow Charger bolt glowing in the sun. It’s his first day at camp as an NFL rookie and no one knows what to expect from this kid. He hasn’t played an organized game of football since high school in Detroit, and here he is signed, sealed, and delivered to the San Diego Chargers. It was his first professional team try-out, and the first team to jump at an offer. “If I listened to what people had to say, I wouldn’t be here,” Gates said. It’s 2003. et’s rewind even further. Gates had a tough decision to make when considering where he would take his talents for college ball—and that’s basketball I might add. “Football was something I was natural at, but basketball was just where my heart lied,” Gates said. This was a classic case of the mind pulling you one way and your heart pulling you the other (cue R. Kelly). “Basketball was something that I really put all my effort and time into. And football was just something I was good at.” ‘Good at’ is an understatement. Gates was an All-American at Central High School getting looked at by top schools. He thought he could have the best of both worlds at Michigan State, where he planned to play football and compete in basketball under coach Tom Izzo. But, basketball took precedence and Kent State University is where he landed. “When you grow up a certain way, it allows you to deal with adversity,” Gates said. “Any inner-city kid—it ain’t just Detroit— has to deal with so many things, so when you get into the real world, you’re accustomed to dealing with peaks and valleys and you learn how to stay consistent. You keep going, keep pushing. It’s never too bad, and it’s never good enough for you.” At his first season with KSU in 2001, Gates made an immediate impact. He led the team to the only conference championships in school history while averaging 20.6 points his senior year. The guy was a monster. Now, flashback to 2003 with me again, if you will. There was another certain prospect making it onto the scene in Ohio, getting ready to sign to the Cleveland Cavaliers at the time. As a sports junkie, your mind has to fantasize about the possibility of these two in Cav uniforms. But, Gates said he was on the franchise’s radar, yet football gave him a better opportunity. “If LeBron was the biggest thing in Cleveland, then I was probably the second biggest thing,” Gates reminisced with a laugh. “I was always good and comfortable in my own skin. I think that’s the difference between me and any other athlete—or anybody else—I was always comfortable with what I was able to do, and I never discredited what anybody else was able to do, but I never focused on what they were doing. I complemented him, but I always knew what I possessed. It never really bothered me.” As a 6’4” power forward, that makes for a slippery slope in the NBA. This is also known as a ‘tweener,’ someone who is
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between positions. But his performance in the NCAA’s March Madness caught the eyes of NFL scouts instead. Gates came to the Chargers undrafted and undeniably forceful. This time it echoed across the NFL. Midway through the season, the Chargers had a league’s worst record of 4-12, which propelled Gates from third string to starter. It was just the push he needed. He was later nominated for the Pro-Bowl in his first season with the big boys. This went on. For the next eight consecutive seasons he would be nominated for a Pro-Bowl selection, make First-Team AllPro list three times, and the Second-Team All-Pro list two. So what drives him? Back then, Gates says he was trying to put on for his city (cue Young Jeezy). “A lot of inspiration comes from living and being an inner city kid. I had to overcome a bunch of stuff. That was the initial inspiration for me growing up; I wanted to make a difference, I wanted to be different and I had an opportunity to,” Gates continued. “I carried the whole community on my back. I remembered when things got rocky, there were a bunch of people that were looking forward to seeing me play. That was what drove me for the most part. It was five of us in a two bedroom home, so you could only imagine how difficult that was, too.” Years later, and as a seasoned vet, it’s a little different: “Now, I want to pave a good path for my kids. I have a lot of things I can accomplish and I want to leave everything I have in the game.” Gates explains when you get to a point in your career where you’re at the top, so close to beating the NFL record of most touchdowns by a tight end, it naturally becomes your new drive. “Initially it was so far fetched,” Gates said. “People would say, ‘You can be one of the best to ever play the game,’ and now I’m like, what? I only need four more [touchdowns]?” Gates says his teammates are aware of him being on the cusp of such a monumental accomplishment, but it comes secondary to their overall goal and what they’re trying to accomplish collectively. “Our focus is just winning the game, and if that could somehow fit into the game plan, into the goal of winning a championship, it would just be that much sweeter.” It helps to have one of your best friends throwing you the passes. In 2006, first-year quarterback Philip Rivers came onto the Chargers scene. That year Gates had 924 receiving yards for nine touchdowns. Accident? I don’t think so. There was chemistry from the get-go. “We’ve been in the same spot for 13 years, and it’s crazy,” Rivers says about teammate Gates. “Like all of us in this locker room, we have different stories, but yet we have such
Community Service Shop with a Charger event around the holidays Free football camp for underprivileged kids in Detroit Owns his own boxing management to give Detroit kids a chance in the ring, in honor of his great late grandfather Henry Hank who was a professional boxer Advice to Rookies? “Embrace the situation; it comes and goes. Opportunities open and close for different people for different reasons. And if you’re not prepared for it, you’ll really never cease the moment. If I wasn’t prepared like I was, my opportunity could’ve come and passed me by. I never expected in a million years to play football. But it was an opportunity and I made the most out of it. In any profession, not just sports, in life in general, if something comes up, you just better be prepared,” Gates said.
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“Antonio is like magic. He has a special fire in him that most people just don’t have.” —Sasha Gates
Fave San Diego Restaurant: True Foods Kitchen truefoodkitchen. com Non-negotiable Home Necessity: His Man Cave, decorated with a leather couch and wall to wall painting of a lion. “This is my spot,” he said. On Getting Close to Retirement: “Coaching is definitely an option, TV is an option,” Gates said on his possible post-NFL career. “You gotta leave those options open. I haven’t really figured it out what I am going to do [when that day comes]. Somehow if I can find a balance, I would imagine something that I have done over the last 15 years would probably be the springboard of what I would do and then try to find my happiness along the way.”
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similar traits in our competitiveness, our love for the game, and our love for people. He’s just a genuine guy.” Rivers and Gates have the most QB to TE touchdowns in NFL history, but a ring is something they are both chasing. “His friendship probably means more than all we’ve accomplished playing together, but it is a combination of both that makes it as special as it is,” Rivers said. Over the course of Gates’ career he would ride the rollercoaster of record breaking seasons to key playoff losses to major contract signings to injury woes. But what is Gates’ real soft spot? His family. Gates and his wife, Sasha, have been married since 2011 and have welcomed daughter Ayla, 2, and son Aven, 1, back-to-back (cue Drake). “[Aven] is going to be modeling. He acts like me, but he looks like his mama. He’ll probably be about 6’4”—girls better watch out,” Gates said with that million-dollar smile. Gates raved about his wife and how she is such an anchor his life: “I let her create her own identity,” he said. “People like to put you in a box, and tell you what you can’t do or what you should do. I try to separate myself; It’s still, ‘Oh, that’s Antonio Gates’ wife,’ but I just want that to be Sasha.” Being a couple that is in the public’s eye constantly isn’t easy, but having each other’s backs is the main ingredient for a recipe of success. “We understand it’s a sacrifice made when achieving our goals,” said Sasha, aspiring R&B singer and the star of E! Reality TV show “WAGS” (Women and Girlfriends of Sports Stars). “We are a team, so we find interest in each other’s endeavors whether we are just there to give an open ear, give advice or be each other’s backbone and comfort through the ups and downs of it all.
And just like any team, when one is lacking the other one picks up.” As Antonio’s life teammate, Sasha witnesses his drive first-hand. We only get to experience his superstardom through a TV screen, missing out on the grind that goes on behind the scenes. “Antonio is like magic. He has a special fire in him that most people just don’t have. It takes more than just a manual from a book and more than just talent. It takes the right mindset, confidence, humbleness, drive, faith, love and lots of hard work, which he possesses,” Sasha said. “He’s always been consistent with his work ethic and it inspires me every single day.” Head Coach Mike McCoy would have to agree, who oftentimes sees Antonio more than his own wife during season. McCoy is in the fourth season with the Chargers and says that Gates’ skill matched with his leadership, character, and commitment to the game makes a good football player, but even better person off the field. “Can’t say enough good things about Antonio Gates and what he’s meant to this team, this city and the league. He’s certainly one of the best, if not the best tight end to ever play this game, and I’m sure Canton will come calling when all is said and done,” McCoy said. “Good players make good coaches and he’s one of those players that make you appreciate coaching even more.” Today, on a chilly December San Diego Sunday, Gates will once again lace up his cleats and head out onto the Qualcomm Stadium field. “At the end of the day, I love to compete,” Gates said. This time, with 14 seasons under his belt and 14 seasons worth of “X”s and “O”s and acquired knowledge under his helmet. The front of his jersey may read “Chargers,” but on his back he carries his family, the entire city of Detroit, and of course, the weight of the legendary—and Hall of Fame-worthy—number 85.
Up for Sale Gates is Selling His Hollywood Hills Pad 4 stories 5 bedrooms 4.5 bathrooms 2 Decks Elevator Pool
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“I THINK THAT WHEN PEOPLE LOOK BACK AT THIS 150 YEARS FROM NOW, THEY’LL RECOGNIZE THAT WE WERE AT THE FOREFRONT. OR AS I LIKE TO CALL IT, IF YOU’RE A SAN DIEGAN, YOU’LL RECOGNIZE US AS THE SEAL TEAM OF MANUFACTURING.” —HERNÁN LUIS Y PRADO
WORKSHOPS FOR WARRIORS 2970 Main St San Diego, CA 92113 619.550.1620 workshopsforwarriors.org 92 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
HUMANITARIAN PROFILE
D L V I E U TS B E , R rebuild
america
HERNÁN LUIS Y PRADO HONORS OUR VETERANS BY PROVIDING THEM WITH OPPORTUNITY
WRITTEN BY: KATIE CALLAHAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: BRIANNA MOSS
Hernán Luis y Prado wants to ramp up America’s advanced manufacturing force using military-style training for the people who know it best: San Diego’s veterans, wounded warriors and transitioning service members. Since founding Workshops for Warriors in 2008 from inside his home, Luis y Prado has used evidence-based information and programming as well as compressed training to get graduates into jobs within four months. With instruction in machining, welding fabrication and machinery repair, Workshops for Warriors has given over 320 veterans, wounded warriors and transitioning service members, the nationally recognized credentials they need to reorient into civilian life and attain financial freedom.
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“WE HAVE DONORS THAT COME IN HERE ALL THE TIME AND SAY, ‘WOW, YOU GUYS AREN’T GIVING THEM FISH, YOU’RE TEACHING THEM HOW TO FISH, EXPLAINING TO THEM THE FISHING LAWS AND HELPING THEM DEVELOP BIGGER AND BIGGER NETS TO CATCH MORE FISH.’”— H E R N Á N L U I S Y P R A D O
ngie, a homeless army veteran seemingly carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders even as she walked into the doors of Workshops for Warriors, was out of hope. She had already lost her two children because she couldn’t provide a home for them. Only later Hernán Luis y Prado, founder and CEO of Workshops for Warriors, discovered if it weren’t for the positive reaction she received that day, she would have ended her life. But those doors provided an opportunity for her to regain her life and her dignity, something she hadn’t done in five years. After 32 weeks at Workshops for Warriors, Angie went from homeless to homeowner. She made $25 an hour after receiving two credentials from the program. And she got her daughters back. 94 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
BY THE NUMBERS Statistics you should know regarding San Diego’s veterans and servicemembers from inside Workshops for Warriors: Ú Only 17 percent of people that do a particular job in the military do that job after they leave the service. Ú 35 percent receive EDD benefits Ú 68 percent receive disability benefits Ú 60 percent are unemployed or underpaid Ú 26 percent are in temporary or insecure housing situations. Ú Median age of students is 23 Ú Three percent of the student body is female
Workshops for Warriors is a no-cost advanced manufacturing training provider for veterans, wounded warriors and transitioning service members, looking to make a dent in San Diego’s manufacturing force by placing them into the skilled labor force. Since 2008, Luis y Prado, a 15year Navy combat veteran with tours in Afghanistan and Iraq, has tried to address a problem he saw too close to home. “I was really tired of seeing more friends die of drugs and suicide in San Diego than dying of bombs and bullets in Baghdad,” he said. He left the Navy in 2013. Leaving the line of duty didn’t stand in the way of his mission to help his fellow service members succeed. He saw a need he could fill. “Most of the veterans of our program are interested in doing something vocationally-minded, or something with their hands, or something where they can see a physical manifestation of their work at the end of day,” Luis y Prado said. “That’s what made us think about manufacturing.” The United States has 2.3 million advanced manufacturing jobs that are going unfilled due to lack of skilled labor. In less than 10 years, that number jumps to 3.5 million jobs unfilled. The median age of the advanced manufacturing worker in the U.S. is 59 years old, leaving Luis y Prado to want to fill the manufacturing force in order to build ships, bridges and aircraft in the future. Workshops for Warriors uses compressed training familiar to any
military personnel as well as data and metrics to train as many service members as they can afford, which is currently 40 people per semester. They’re funded through corporate and private donations, but funding remains their biggest obstacle. Workshops for Warriors provides six classes in three different courses of instruction: machining, welding fabrication and machinery repair. Graduates leave with an average of three to five nationally recognized credentials after four months; some leave with as many as 15. The courses run 16 weeks long. The cost per student is $25,000. Luis y Prado says students could double the investment, make $60,000 a year, create two-and-a-half other jobs and contribute to the economy, while contrastingly to incarcerate a veteran is $75,000 a year. “We have donors that come in here all the time and say, ‘wow, you guys aren’t giving them fish, you’re teaching them how to fish, explaining to them the fishing laws and helping them develop bigger and bigger nets to catch more fish,’” he said. “It’s a whole different way of looking at manufacturing and a whole different way to make people realize that they are eminently marketable.” Luis y Prado was recognized for his efforts in the program to “end homelessness, boost employment and treat health disparities for fellow veterans” by the White House’s Champion of Change program. Thirtyfive percent of the program’s students receive EDD benefits; 68 percent
receive disability benefits; 60 percent are unemployed or underpaid; and 26 percent are in temporary or insecure housing situations. “Imagine being able to replicate this [program] throughout 100 plus locations in the United States of America so that we’re able to give every community an opportunity to have a training pipeline that that community needs to restart that community and America’s collective economic engine, while giving veterans and wounded warriors the lifelong careers they deserve after serving in America’s armed forces,” he said. They hope 150 years from now, their organization and San Diego will be recognized as the birthplace of America’s green manufacturing renaissance. They will accomplish this with their patents on solar and independent energy neighborhood electric vehicles, solar-powered products, mobility products for amputees and adaptive technologies. “The idea is that we’re teaching vets how to rebuild themselves physically, like themselves - their legs, their arms, their joints - to rebuilding America,” Luis y Prado said. “I think that when people look back at this 150 years from now, they’ll recognize that we were at the forefront. Or as I like to call it, if you’re a San Diegan, you’ll recognize us as the SEAL Team of Manufacturing.”
STAPLES OF SERVICE Stats on how Workshops for Warriors gives back to veterans and service members in San Diego Ú There are over 2,500 opportunities for each of its graduates because of the current skill gap in the advanced manufacturing industry. Ú WFW serves approximately 40 students per semester with six classes, six days a week 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Ú WFW students earn nationally recognized credentials from The American Welding Society (AWS), Mastercam University, SolidWorks, National Institute for Metalworking Skills, Immerse2Learn, and the National Coalition of Certifications Centers (NC3) Ú The program graduates approximately 120 people per year, increasing that number each year. Ú In 2015, 94 percent of WFW graduates obtained jobs in the advanced manufacturing industry. Ú As of Nov. 2016, they’ve graduated 321 wounded warriors and transitioning service members, amassing over 1,274 nationally recognized credentials. NATIVE KNOWLEDGE: Workshop for Warriors, located 87 feet away from the world’s largest naval base, provides locals and tourists alike with sometimes as many as 10 or more tours of its facilities a week.
GO/DO
PAIGE ALMS @paigealms PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION Maui, HI
BIG-WAVE WARRIOR PAIGE ALMS is a Pioneer for Women in a Male Dominated Industry WRITTEN BY: ALANA ARONSON PHOTOGRAPHED BY: TRACY LEBOE The surf industry is seen as a boy’s club, and the big-wave sector is no different. From Greg Long to Laird Hamilton to Peter Mel, the recognition of men dominating this arena is seemingly countless compared to the acclaim for their female counterparts. Women have been charging big waves and thriving alongside the boys, oftentimes without recognition, and 28-year-old professional surfer Paige Alms has been a pioneer of female big-wave surfing since her first taste at age 15 in Maui, five years after she picked up the sport. In January of 2015, Paige became the first woman to disappear in a barrel at Jaws, Pe’ahi Maui. The legendary break is only minutes from her home on the island, and marks that experience as “a pivotal moment in women’s surfing for sure, as it had never been done before like that.” Her passion for riding waves was always fueled by her own hard work—sponsorship in big-wave surfing, especially for women, is few and far between. “From digging holes when I was 16, to sanding and coating floors in my 20s, painting houses (and) fixing surfboards the night before swells,” Paige notes; all of her jobs seemed a little different. That never mattered though, because doing whatever it takes to make her dreams come true was never an option, but a given. It is this illustration of perseverance and passion that marks Paige as a pioneer and influencer of her
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industry. After years of continuous hard work, sacrifice and severe injury, she was awarded the Women’s Overall Performance XXL Big Wave Award shortly after her impressive barrel at Jaws. While it was a goal of hers to win the coveted award, Paige told us, “I don’t set my mind on winning things as much as I used to when I was a kid, instead I try to envision specific waves I want to ride.” This speaks to the love of surf that fuels Paige, over any sponsorship or financial gain. Still, it is her success and sacrifice in surfing that, alongside other big-wave females, led the World Surf League to host the first ever big-wave women’s competition in November. Her impact on others reaches far beyond the ocean. Devyn Bisson, female documentarian and creator of The Wave I Ride, the film on Paige’s big-wave journey, saw the magic in Alms’ story. From filmmakers to fellow surfers and students in classrooms that Paige speaks to, it is impossible to hear her story and not feel inspired. For women that seek to create a path in an industry that feels dominated by men, or for those that are working hard in any arena to achieve their dreams, Paige says, “Stay focused, work hard, and dream big. Anything is possible if you work hard enough for it. You have to truly believe and know that it is possible, manifest your destiny. You can do it!”
“Stay focused, work hard, and dream big. Anything is possible if you work hard enough for it. You have to truly believe and know that it is possible, manifest your destiny. You can do it!” — PA I G E A L M S
MAKING WAVES 12 Women competed for the first time ever in the World Surf League’s big-wave surfing competition in November. Paige WON!
PIONEERING PALS While Paige was technically the first to disappear inside a barrel at Jaws, her friend and fellow big-wave surfer Keala Kennelly, made major strides with a pocket ride in 2012.
PHOTO BY: Michael Wesley | PHOTOGRAPHER ASSISTANT: Sofia Aguila
home
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DEC.
2016
100 HOME EXPERTS Your Favorite Real Estate Professionals in San Diego
110 PIGMENT Pigment’s Signature Style is a North Park Mainstay
113 AWAY FEATURE Kick Back and Relax With These Tips For Your Next Getaway
116 HARPER’S TOPIARY GARDEN Edna Harper Brings Life to Her Suburban Hillside
118 ESCAPE: JAPAN 7 Days in Japan, Countless Things to Do
126 O2 TREEHOUSE
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HOME EXPERTS Real Estate Royalty
Climb Up the Ladder With O2 Treehouse Creator Dustin Feider
129 HOME/AWAY GUIDE How to Decorate, Dine and Discover This Holiday Season
144 HOME PROFILE Jonathan Adler’s Creative Journey Shines Through His Design
148 SETTING THE TABLE Wonderland Scores Big With Football (and Foodie) Fans in Ocean Beach
152 SU CASA WILLIS ALLEN REAL ESTATE 1131 Wall St La Jolla, CA 92037 877.515.7443 www.willisallen.com www.bennettbennettrealestate.com
Rancho Santa Fe Boasts a Property Only Dreams Are Made Of
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DECEMBER 2016
HOME EXPERT
REAL ESTATE KEVIN & CORTNEY BENNETT
ANDREW CANTER
Brought to You By
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R O YA LT Y BRETT COMBS
JEFF GRANT
San Diego’s Leading Real Estate Professionals WRITTEN BY: JORDAN LIGONS AND WILL LANGE PHOTOGRAPHED BY: MICHAEL WESLEY | PHOTOGRAPHER ASSISTANT: SOFIA AGUILA
San Diego’s ocean breeze, top-notch neighborhoods, and stellar views are easy selling points for real estate professionals. The city’s vibes scream luxury, yet laid-back and everyone is running to get a piece of it. From North County to South, these real estate royalties can assist you in finding your next home in America’s Finest City. Winners from our Wells Fargo sponsored poll “Favorite Real Estate Professional in San Diego” Jeff Grant, Andrew Canter, Brett Combs, and Kevin and Cortney Bennett all have one thing in common: They love their city. Making the commitment, taking the leap, and entrusting someone with this kind of investment can be tough, but they are here to help! Flip the page to read more about their craft, their passion for real estate and what caught their eye about the industry.
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KEVIN & CORTNEY BENNETT Real Estate Agents for Willis Allen Real Estate
K HEARTS C The married dynamic duo Kevin and Cortney have been working together at Bennett + Bennett Real Estate for over 15 years and have two sons Gage and Jag. DID YOU KNOW? Willis Allen Real Estate was founded in 1914. That’s over 100 years of providing services to San Diego locals! STREET OF DREAMS “This is a rare and unique opportunity that can never be duplicated,” Kevin Bennett says about the La Jolla property. -6,163 square feet -4 bedrooms -3.5 bathrooms $13.9 Million
Kevin: BRE# 01948696 Cortney: BRE# 01382469 bennettbennettrealestate.com Willis Allen Real Estate 1131 Wall St La Jolla, CA 92037 877.515.7443 willisallen.com
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M ANTRA: “We are dedicated to providing an unrivaled real estate experience through trust, elite customer service, and cutting edge marketing tools.” Q: What initially drew you into the real estate industry? How long have you been working? Cortney Bennett: Real estate has always been in my blood. My grandfather was an architect that designed luxury homes in Seattle. My dad also had an affinity for real estate. Every weekend, I remember being in the backseat of Realtor’s cars and looking at properties. These were some of the fondest memories I have with my father. This generated my desire to sell luxury real estate almost 20 years ago. Kevin Bennett: Coming from a background in psychology and mental health, I spent many years developing trust and building rapport with clients. I was able to finetune my ability to listen to clients, meet their needs, and empower them in making beneficial decisions. I found several parallels with real estate and knew this would be a successful venture. Cortney was already established in the high end luxury market and it made sense for me to join her to create Bennett + Bennett Real Estate. Q: What does your typical day look like? KB/CB: There is nothing typical or predictable about a day in real estate. A phone call or email can change the whole dynamic of our day. This can generate both excitement and or pressure. As a result, we collaborate every morning and develop an effect plan and strategy to maximize our day. This entails delegating showings, emails, phone calls, and appointments. Being flexible is a key component in day to day real estate. It helps that there are two of us so we are always able to divide and conquer. Q: What is the most challenging aspect of your job? KB/CB: We find the most challenging aspect of our job is learning to shut it off. We pride ourselves on our customer service so it is vital that we respond to all clients in a timely manner. Establishing the perfect balance is often times difficult. We laugh at each other because we find ourselves talking about real estate even when we are out to dinner, spending time friends, and with our kids during family time. Q: What makes this market unique and/or challenging? KB/CB: San Diego’s market is unique in that there will always be demand. The location, weather, and continued growth of different neighborhoods and pockets will always attract people. This, in turn, creates the biggest challenge which is the lack of inventory. Clients want properties that do not exist. When our clients are faced with this challenge, we enjoy it and see it as an opportunity to implement our strengths as a real estate team. It allows us to utilize our creativity, resources, and sphere to find these types of properties. Often times, we achieve through off-market sells which we have done on several occasions. Q: What has been the most rewarding moment of your career so far? KB/CB: Overall, we are externally proud of our exponential growth year after year. We are top producers in San Diego’s luxury real estate market and continue to provide excellence
to our clients. Recently, we had clients that unexpectedly found their dream home. In order to purchase this home, they had to sell their current home. Their dream home already had multiple offers. We were able to get their contingent offer accepted and closed escrow on their current and dream home all within 26 days. In today’s market, that was a huge challenge and accomplishment that further showcases our dynamic real estate experience. Q: Tell us about this listing and what makes this property so unique. KB/CB: This magnificent property is located on La Jolla’s premiere “Street of Dreams.” Oceanfront with sprawling views of the pacific all the way down to Mexico. Gorgeous contemporary architecture with top of the line finishes and quality. Seamless indoor outdoor living ideal for entertaining or enjoying the beaming rays of sun. Spectacular new kitchen, great room, and unique moving structural walls. This is a rare and unique opportunity that can never be duplicated. Q: What does it mean to you for the owners to trust you with such a big investment? KB/CB: There is nothing more important in this business than trust. It means everything to us that our clients trust us to list and buy properties, and do it in a manner that brings them emotional and financial success. We fully understand the magnitude of responsibilities this entails and therefore we always go above and beyond for our clients in every real estate transactions. We pride ourselves on this, and it is reflected in our reviews and continued referrals from our clients. Q: How do you find the right buyer for a house? KB/CB: We accomplish this by truly understanding the buyer profile. This is done through exploration, research, understanding the market, and knowledge of all the different pockets of San Diego. Once this is determined, we creatively develop strategies and marketing tactics to reach potential buyers. We take full advantage of our unrivaled marketing plans, resources, and exclusive affiliations with Christie’s International Real Estate and Luxury Portfolio International. Lastly, intuition plays a vital role in determining the right buyer for a house. Q: What do you love about San Diego? KB/CB: The vibe, the weather, the people, the eclectic neighborhoods, the golf, the Padres, the Chargers, the restaurants, the beaches, the hiking, the proximity, the growth, and the Real Estate. It is a wonderful and ideal place to raise our two boys, Gage and Jag Bennett. Q: If you could sum up your personal philosophy in a sentence, what would it be? KB/CB: We are dedicated to providing an unrivaled real estate experience through trust, elite customer service, and cutting edge marketing tools.
PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: 6106 CAMINO DE LA COSTA, LA JOLLA, CA 92037
“Being flexible is a key component in day to day real estate. It helps that there are two of us so we are always able to divide and conquer.” —Kevin and Cortney Bennett
“It means everything to us that our clients trust us to list and buy properties, and do it in a manner that brings them emotional and financial success.”—Kevin and Cortney Bennett
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ANDREW C A N T E R President and CEO of Canter Companies
M ANTRA: “Never be afraid to try something new.” HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS Canter personally developed this property. “It was a passion project for me and one that I am very proud of,” he says. BIG SHOT In 2006, Canter started his business the same year he graduated from San Diego State University where he received his B.S. in science, real estate, and finance. THE SPECS -3,300 square feet -3 bedrooms -4.5 bathrooms
Canter Companies 655 W Broadway Ste 1650 San Diego, CA 92101 619.546.0973 cantercompanies.com
Q: What initially drew you into the real estate industry? Andrew Canter: The passion to develop properties is what really peaked my interest. I wanted to change a skyline and help communities evolve into something better. I began my career in 2002 but opened Canter Companies in 2006. Q: What does your typical day look like? AC: We have so many projects of all different types going on at once that no day is typical! I try to start my day at 6 a.m. with a workout, then head to one of our three offices to catch up with my team. It is so important to stay top-of-mind with people who influence your success and in order to do that, I’m constantly meeting up with current or potential clients, agents and business partners. Touring new properties and development sites is a must to ensure I have a grasp on our ongoing projects. Q: What is the most challenging aspect of your job? AC: Finding the right people for our team and ensuring that they can provide the high quality of service we require. We have a rigorous interviewing process and include our team members in the qualifying process to seek out the best candidates to represent our brand. It a difficult task to find the right people and we are very proud of our team. Q: What makes this market unique and/or challenging? AC: The lack of supply of homes and land in San Diego is creating a very unique atmosphere. The low supply and high competition is making the process of finding quality opportunities more difficult. Q: What has been the most rewarding moment of your career so far? AC: Being in a position where I can provide jobs to people in an incredible work environment is extremely rewarding. The culture that has evolved within our team and the pride our team members have for the company
is an incredible accomplishment. We have such an amazing group here at Canter and I feel so lucky every day for that! Q: Tell us about this listing and what makes this property so unique. AC: This is a house I developed. It was a passion project for me and one that I am very proud of. Q: What does it mean to you for the owners to trust you with such a big investment? AC: The trust our clients put in us creates a huge responsibility which drives us that much more to ensure we can execute for them. Our goal to create a better and more unique experience for our clients comes from not only our agents but a collaboration with our wealth management services. With such a huge responsibility, we felt it was a necessity to advise our clients not only on how to sell your house, but make sure they conduct the transaction in a financially responsible and tax efficient manner. Q: How do you find the right buyer for a house? AC: The real estate market has really changed in the last few years. The days of placing a simple advertisement to attract the right buyer are long gone. In today’s market, buyers are online and have access to unlimited information. We pride ourselves in breaking out of the old school advertising concepts and focus on making our listings come to the top of their search. Q: What do you love about San Diego? AC: This is home, never been to a better city! The outdoor lifestyle, amazing people and an enormous economic opportunity in this town is like no other. Q: If you could sum up your personal philosophy in a sentence, what would it be? AC: Never be afraid to try something new.
“It is so important to stay top-of-mind with people who influence your success.”—Andrew Canter
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PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: 6653 NEPTUNE PL, LA JOLLA, CA 92037
“Being in a position where I can provide jobs to people in an incredible work environment is extremely rewarding.” —Andrew Canter
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BRETT C O M B S President and Broker for P.S. Platinum Properties M ANTRA: “Don’t be the same. Be better.” HOME SWEET SAN DIEGO Brett has lived in San Diego most of his life and says that he loves SD so much that he could write a book on all the reasons why he loves this city! “In my opinion, San Diego is the best city in the world,” Combs said. FIRST PICK If you choose to work with P.S. Platinum, you may get first dibs on properties that are not on the market yet. “We keep our ear to the ground, and most times hear of listings coming to market prior to anyone else,” Combs said. “This increases our clients chances in having the first shot at making an offer.” DREAM HOUSE Brett and his wife Christie’s beachside abode is not currently up for sale, but they took part in designing their perfect Solana Beach bungalow. -4,100 square feet -4 bedrooms -3.5 bathrooms
BRE# 01347012 Twitter: @psplatinum P.S. Platinum 1442 Camino Del Mar Ste 209 Del Mar, CA 92014 858.481.7939 Psplatinum.com
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Q: What initially drew you into the real estate industry? How long have you been working? Brett Combs: I started P.S. Platinum in 2001 after graduating from [the University of San Diego]. I have always loved real estate, and felt that there was a need to elevate the marketing and customer experience in the luxury markets in San Diego. At P.S. Platinum we have assembled a diverse team of creative agents guided by a shared desire to expand the possibilities of marketing luxury real estate. We enjoy what we do. Q: What does your typical day look like? BC: Work out. Coffee. Kids to school. Team meetings. Showings. Meet with marketing team (Think Tank). Hopefully sell a home or two. Home with the family. Wine/dinner. TV. Bed. Repeat. Q: What is the most challenging aspect of your job? BC: To continue to recreate ourselves every 2-3 months. In order to stay ahead of the competition, we are consistently thinking 3-6 months out, and adjusting and improving our branding and marketing of our listings and agents. This takes a lot of time, creative energy, and money. Figuring out effective new marketing tools is one of my favorite parts of the job. Q: What makes this market unique and/or challenging? BC: In my opinion, San Diego is the best city in the world. Every time I fly in from a vacation, I feel so blessed to come home to a place that is, in most cases, nicer than where I vacationed. San Diego’s real estate is also undervalued compared to most major cities, yet has more to offer. The challenge is to locate those that see the value, and get them to choose San Diego over SF, NY, LA, etc. It really isn’t that challenging once we locate them. Q: What has been the most rewarding moment of your career so far? BC: This year we have hit record numbers with a team of under 25 agents. I’m really proud of our team, and their commitment to providing the best service in the industry. Selling is a people business, and we buy from people we like. I hand select each agent based on their ability to work to enhance the P.S.P. culture, brand, and customer experience.
Q: Tell us about this home and what makes this property so unique. BC: This was actually going to be a spec project for me. During the process my wife and I fell in love with the house and location, and decided to make it home. It is unique to us seeing we were able to design it in a way that perfectly fits our family and lifestyle. We love to have friends and family over, and the house is great for entertaining. Q: What does it mean to you for the owners to trust you with such a big investment? BC: We take very seriously the responsibility and challenge to advise and represent our clients through the emotional process of selling or buying what is most people’s largest asset. As a team, we are able to navigate through what is typically a stressful process, and make it as exciting and smooth as possible. We are also able to fully commit all of our resources and marketing dollars to each listing due to having such a high success rate in selling the listings we take on. It truly is a partnership with each Seller/Buyer. Building such strong relationships make all the hard work worth it. We tend to make lifelong friends with most of our clients. Q: How do you find the right buyer for a house? BC: In the areas we focus on, inventory is very limited. First we listen to our client’s needs. We then develop a strategy to find their dream home. If the home is not on the market, we dig deeper. We have been known to knock on doors and present offers if we feel the house fits our client’s needs. We keep our ear to the ground, and most times hear of listings coming to market prior to anyone else. This increases our client’s chances in having the first shot at making an offer. Q: What do you love about San Diego? BC: I have lived in San Diego most of my life. I could write a book on what I love about SD! When I drop my kids off at school, there are so many parents that I went to elementary school with. People tend to not leave San Diego. The sense of community is so strong. Q: If you could sum up your personal philosophy in a sentence, what would it be? BC: Don’t be the same. Be better.
“When I drop my kids off at school, there are so many parents that I went to elementary school with. People tend to not leave San Diego. The sense of community is so strong.” —Brett Combs
“At P.S. Platinum we have assembled a diverse team of creative agents guided by a shared desire to expand the possibilities of marketing luxury real estate. We enjoy what we do.” —Brett Combs
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JEFF G R A N T Owner and Principal Broker at Sand & Sea Investments
M ANTRA: “Focus on what’s best for your client, which will preserve your integrity.” MAJOR KEY Sand & Sea Investments claim to hold the keys to the city with their properties. And so far, they’ve closed over $100 million in real estate sales. READY FOR TAKE OFF Jeff and his team use drones to capture not only the home that is for sale but also the future homeowner’s neighborhood to truly gage their surroundings. VIEWS -2,000+ square feet, including patios -3 bedrooms -2 bathrooms -28th Floor $2.2 Million
BRE# 01773893 Sand & Sea Investments 265 W Market St San Diego, CA 92101 858.336.9836 shhortsale.com keytosd.com
Q: What initially drew you into the real estate industry? Jeff Grant: Initially, because I wanted to own properties myself to generate passive cashflow (hence the ‘Investments’ in my company name). Though since then, my focus has shifted to helping people, enjoying the relationships with those I serve, and structuring the best deals possible for my clients. I have been working in the industry for eight years after leaving an incredible job that was fun to do and talk about, but wasn’t providing the lifestyle I wanted.
Q: What does it mean to you for the owners to trust you with such a big investment? JG: It is a huge honor. I take it very, very seriously as their trusted RE Advisor. They are my top priorities— short of my wife and sons. They are why I work so hard! The ultimate compliment is when after closing, they introduce us to their friends and family for the same service. That is how Sand & Sea Investments has grown to where it is - organically with premium service, integrity, and out-of-the-box thinking.
Q: What does your typical day look like? JG: I am awake by 5 a.m., and I typically have 2-3 meetings throughout the day starting by 9 a.m. About half of my day is spent at my office, and the rest is meeting clients, and managing the 100 plus daily phone calls, texts, and emails. I then like to wrap up my day early to spend quality time with my wife and two sons.
Q: How do you find the right buyer for a house? JG: Once I employ our premium and unique marketing platform before, during, and after activating a listing, I then put a lot of trust in my fellow RE professionals to bring the right buyer. From there, it’s about asking the right questions, and trusting your instincts throughout the transaction. Experience of closing hundreds of transactions and helping thousands of clients has sharpened those instincts—no doubt.
Q: What is the most challenging aspect of your job? JG: Working with challenging personalities. Sometimes people want to just take and take, but I work diligently towards collaborative closings so that everyone feels they get the deal that they wanted. It makes my job much more enjoyable and rewarding, and ultimately my clients happier. Q: What makes this market unique and/or challenging? JG: It is very neighborhood-specific. Therefore, it is critical to know each area and have the best resources and data possible. Only then can you do your job, and truly do it well. We invest heavily in resources and data for this reason, and love serving county-wide instead of just focusing on one specific area. Q: What has been the most rewarding moment of your career so far? JG: Believe it or not, closing as many short sales as we did. It is a great feeling to prevent a foreclosure for someone, and many of our clients literally cried out of sheer appreciation for our services. That said, growing as quickly as we have nearly overwhelms me with gratitude. We are very fortunate, and I am humbled by it.
Q: What do you love about San Diego? JG: I love that our city offers sincerely kind people, great food, excellent weather, a diverse economy, tons of entertainment (much of it free), and how each area of our great city offers such unique and differing character! I also like being close to so many other great cities, and the fact that you can ski and surf on the same day! Q: Tell us about this listing and what makes this property so unique. JG: This listing is adjacent to Seaport Village, in Park Place. It offers unique architecture— unlike all the other modern towers—and is located only two floors from the very top on the 28th floor with unobstructed water views. It looks directly at the Broadway Corridor, and will offer the premium lifestyle that the brand new buildings tout, but at a fraction of the cost.
“It is critical to know each area and have the best resources and data possible. Only then can you do your job, and truly do it well.” —Jeff Grant
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PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: 700 W HARBOR DR, STE 2803, SAN DIEGO, CA 92101
HOME/AWAY
PIGMENT 3801 30th St San Diego, CA 92104 619.501.6318 www.shoppigment.com
TEACH US YOUR WAYS:
" Owner Amy Paul is an instructor of Color Theory and Art History at Mesa College.
FLYING COLORS North Park’s Pigment Brightens Up the Community
WRITTEN BY: TAMARA PHILIPS & JEANETTE SWANSON With fun and organic items to purchase galore, Pigment is one of the cutest gift shops stops in North Park with a local and colorful charm. Initially opened as an art gallery to showcase local artists, the shop has grown from husband-wife owners Chad Anglin and Amy Paul to more than 25 employees. With this growth, the Pigment crew moved two doors down to their current 3,000 square foot space. Today, the shop is recognized for design savvy gifts, flora and furniture. With humble beginnings, the relationships Chad and Amy have forged with the artist and artisan community in the early days continue to be the back bone of the shop today. Even as the shop continues to expand, it will maintain its locally sourced product. In fact, 75 percent of their jewelry designers are local to North Park. 110 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
“We’re always trying to bring in other local artists. It’s a fun way to support the community,” store manager, Sara Kennedy says. The husband-wife duo claim they are artists who found themselves in retail and with a shop to follow. With these creative juices constantly flowing, the store’s aesthetic is bound to pop! They put a large focus on the merchandising and visuals of the shop. “Merchandising is really storytelling. We apply all the rules of art to our displays and follow our imagination where it takes us,” says Amy. The store has a cutesy pretty space and a lovely composed retail section complete with a comfortable living room feeling area. This provides a homey atmosphere while you shop for some of the store’s most popular products like double insulated tumblers and water bottles made by S’well.
BE INSPIRED
" Pigment frequently hosts paper flower, calligraphy and floral design workshops.
HANDS ON
" Pigment owners are a hands on duo. Owners Amy and Chad are at the store from open to close during the holiday season to ensure their customers are having a pleasant shopping experience.
COLOR MY WORLD
" Amy Paul says that some color combos whisper and others shout from across the room. Color is the thread that unites the elements of Pigment.
RELAXATION
DESTINATION E V E RY T H IN G YOU NEED TO KNOW F OR A PERF ECT G E TAWAY AT MIRAMONTE RESORT & SPA WRITTEN BY: BLAKE PINTO
MIRAMONTE RESORT & SPA 45000 Indian Wells Ln Indian Wells, CA 92210 760.341.2200 www.miramonteresort.com
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1 WORLD-CLASS GOLFING
Miramonte neighbors two world-class golf courses at the Indian Wells Golf Resort: the Celebrity Course and the Players Course. Couldn’t hit a golf ball to save your life? We hope you are never put in that awkward situation. But if you are, the Indian Wells Golf School is available and eager to turn you into the golf pro you were called to be!
2 LUXURY POOLS
Beating the desert heat has never been easier with the help of Miramonte Resort’s luxury pools. Hop in a pool and relax with a cocktail delivered right to you while you take in the surrounding beauty of the Palm Desert and astounding mountains. You can also rent a poolside cabana—each comes with a fresh fruit bowl, water, sodas and even a ceiling fan. Sign us up!
ONLY IN CALIFORNIA
do we consider driving away from the beach for a vacation. Into the desert we venture, searching for someplace to spend a few days and nights being pampered like a movie star. There are not many options better in Palm Springs to do this than Miramonte Resort & Spa: the oasis in the desert. From world-class amenities to luxurious spa treatments and unforgettable surroundings, the Miramonte Resort & Spa is your destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
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REMARKABLE ROOMS
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We know, you didn’t come all this way to hang out in your room, but when they’re as beautiful as the ones at Miramonte Resort & Spa, there’s no shame escaping the heat amidst the luxury you’ve paid for. They even offer dogfriendly rooms for your furry friend. They have everything from simple one-bedrooms to suites larger than most apartments, all with spectacular views of the landscaping throughout the resort.
EAT FRESH
The Grove Artisan Kitchen offers seasonal farm-to-table cuisine prepared by amazing chefs, and even offers a select menu that can be delivered poolside. Fish tacos, and their Pistachio Crusted Chilean Sea Bass are a few of our favorites at The Grove.
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The knowledgeable concierges at the Miramonte Resort & Spa can direct you to the most memorable destinations during your stay. From hot air balloon rides to jeep tours and breathtaking hikes, your adrenaline rush is in reach.
DRINK!
5 GAME, SET, MATCH!
You cannot possibly enjoy the desert without experiencing a game of tennis during your stay. The Indian Wells Tennis Garden has served as playing grounds to some of the world’s best tennis pros. Known as host of the BNP Paribas Open, the famous Tennis Garden is only minutes from Miramonte Resort & Spa. Channel your inner pro with the help of the Resort’s tennis concierge and get playing!
Relaxation is easy to achieve at the Miramonte Resort & Spa. What better way to do so than to sip on a hand-crafted cocktail? Not many places can offer a mojito with muddled mint that they grow on the premises. Unwind and pretend like you never have to go home. The Vineyard Lounge on site offers happy hour daily from 3 to 7 p.m. with $6 well drinks and a discount on their fabulous bar menu.
8 SWEAT IT OUT
You can workout with a personal trainer and discover limits you never knew you had. Or, opt for exploring their fitness center’s amenities such as free weights and exercise classes. One of our favorites? The morning Wellness Walk, which offers guests a 45-minute walk through the beautiful community of Indian Wells.
9 6 BOCCE BALLIN’
The resort’s recent renovation has provided a major outdoor upgrade, including poolside cabanas and fire pits, but most fun of all, bocce ball courts! Grab a friend and head toward the back of the resort for a game of bocce ball.
THE WELL SPA, OF COURSE
This list would not be complete without mentioning The Well Spa. Awarded ‘Best Spa’ in Palm Springs by Desert Magazine readers, The Well is the definition of luxury! Relax in their saltwater pools or therapeutic eucalyptus infused steam room before being treated to a deep tissue massage. Most of all don’t forget to make a wish at the original well still on site that started it all!
TOP 5 SPA SERVICE 1. Rain Massage: Essential oils fall onto the body like a healing rain and encourage the reduction of fatigue while calming the nervous system. This full body massage will leave you ready to take on the day. 2. Hot Stone Massage: Smooth basalt stones are placed intentionally onto the body by a therapist in this service. Others are moved across the body to help eliminate tension and promote relaxation while encouraging positive energy to flow freely. 3. Quench Body Wrap: Shea butter acts as a hydrating infusor in this healing full body service. Unwind while your therapist relieves tension throughout your body and leave feeling more relaxed—and softer— than ever. 4. Age-Reversal Facial: NuFace micro-current is utilized in this service to tone the skin, awaken collagen and elasticity in it and reduce the appearance of fine lines. 5. Pittura Festa: Channel your inner artist with an array of therapeutic and vibrant muds. This is a service you and your friends or partner can do together, and for each other. Get the creative juices flowing with this one!
HOME/AWAY
San Diego’s Neighborhood Topiary Garden
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More than a dozen gardens can be toured at Balboa Park, but Harper’s Topiary Garden, unlike most topiaries and privately owned gardens, is grown and maintained by just three individuals. Harper’s Topiary Garden sits between India and West Washington Streets, just minutes from Balboa Park, the 1,200-acre urban cultural park where a landscape of arts and culture prevail. Twenty years ago, the hillside front yard of Edna and Alex Harper’s Middletown home succumbed to the neighbor’s cape honeysuckle vine. As vines do, they crept, conquered and grew in an uneven manner. Unhappy with the way the climbing plant was growing on the home’s front bank, Edna took a seat across the road and mentally turned the uneven vines into manicured sculptures.
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WRITTEN BY: JEANNETTE SWANSON | PHOTOGRAPHED BY: SARAH NAIL
Edna’s imagination soon produced sketches from memories of sites seen abroad in Asia, Europe, Mexico and South America. Though impressed by Edna’s sketches, Alex was skeptical of the proposed garden, but he agreed to pay for the gardener and water if it panned out. Edna sought out her mother’s gardener, Pedro Duran. Pedro, an Oaxacan Indian from Mexico, became lead gardener, following Harper’s concept of recreating images from past trips. It takes a delicate hand to work with the vine in its older age to ensure it doesn’t snap and break. Pedro’s background in hat weaving gives him the knowledge of how to work with an older vine when it needs to be reshaped. Unlike most topiary gardens, Edna’s sculptures have no internal form. Instead of being bound by wire, string is used to manipulate the vine’s HARPER’S TOPIARY GARDEN 3549 Union St San Diego, CA 92103
growth into a desired creature. The string will eventually decompose and that act saves Pedro from having to cut out wire once the sculpture has matured. The garden is free of admission and open year-round and seems to see no lull in visitors during any time in the week. They’ve received visits from garden groups, senior citizen bus tours and school buses of children. Most surprising to Edna though have been visiting college students. She’s amazed at how her sculpted vines have captured the attention of an age group with such varying interests. Today, the garden features more than 50 imaginative creatures including an orca, six elephants, a dragon, a teddy bear, a surfer boy and pyramids. Edna calls her garden sculptures her children. “They don’t answer back; they just need a haircut often,” she says.
DO IT FOR THE VINE: Edna is involved in many local art groups including a group that meets at the San Diego Botanic Garden and the Friends of Taki.
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE: Pedro works on the garden five days a week for three hours at a time.
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E S CA P E : JA PA N
TAKING IN
TOKYO 7 Days in Japan’s Capital City Has Us Hungry for More
WRITTEN BY: ERIK HALE AND ERIN PRICE PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ERIK HALE
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IT WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO PICTURE JAPAN. Close your eyes tight. What do you imagine it looks like? Does a Japan from some movie you’ve watched fill your head? Do you picture a Japan that is more hip and intellectual like Lost in Translation or filled with tradition like The Last Samurai? Do you see the fast cars and bright lights from Tokyo Drift or the romantic backdrop from Memoirs of a Geisha? Even though we knew that Hollywood does not generally excel in capturing a culture, especially not its own, we had very few other waypoints to help us decide what to expect. The best way to find out might be to clear
ARIGATO, MR. ROBOTO
your mind of expectations and step out of the plane and into Tokyo blindfolded, devoid of preconceptions, ready to
Robot Restaurant is a must visit. It is not quintessential Tokyo. It does not seem representative of the culture and it does feel like a tourist trap. But, you must go. It is a gaping look into the mind of a creative genius. The lobby lounge itself is a gold plated and neon light filled concoction of furniture and music that itself is worthy of an admission fee. A trip to the men’s room is to find yourself inside the mind of Liberace’s most decadent fantasies.
experience the city piece by piece. This is exactly what we did as we spent eight days completely immersing ourselves in everything Tokyo.
Once inside the arena, guests are sat in rows on each side of the stage. You are served a dinner of
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MOST IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN YOU ARE IN JAPAN
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marginal sushi, but please remember that even though it is called a restaurant, you are not here for the food. The show/battle/pop concert is spread out over three shows with intermissions to purchase beer and snacks. The intermissions are not only to rehydrate with alcohol but most likely to allow your heartrate to recover from your cardio workout. The battle between bikini clad woman warriors, gods, dragons and characters will leave you either dizzy, confused, exhilarated, drunk, perplexed or happy. I think the idea is to accomplish all of the above.
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Your credit cards are often not accepted. Carry cash.
There are no public trash cans. In response to the subway terrorist attack in the 90s, all trash cans were removed and have not been replaced. Pack your trash and when you see a can, use it because they are rare. You can often find small cans near vending machines.
Public Wi-Fi is not very fast. Rent a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot.
Always ask for help. Most signs are in Japanese characters. People will almost always help you.
Take the train whenever possible. It is much cheaper than a taxi and can get you anywhere.
Some, but not all, restaurants have “English menus”. That does not mean they serve hamburgers or fries. Our first night I ended up eating Jellyfish.
With a 16 hour time difference you will experience extreme jet lag the first three days. Give yourself time for a quick nap each afternoon. It was completely gone by day four for us.
WHAT DID WE LOVE ABOUT TOKYO? -The indoor pool at The Peninsula Hotel
THE GATE HOTEL KAMINARIMON Makes an Excellent Homebase
WHAT NOT TO MISS IN TOKYO 1. Walk the city ‘til you cannot walk anymore. There is so much to see. We walked 12 miles each day. 2. Go to a baseball game: The sport is huge in Japan, they bring beer to your seat in keg backpacks and the fans sing amazing songs throughout the game. We are now Yakult Sparrow fans. 3. Eat Yakatori in Shinjuku in Memory Lane otherwise known as “Piss Alley”.
-Learning how to ride the subway: It can take you anywhere
-Ramen: It was our go-to food and different from place to place
HERE’S WHAT’S WALKABLE FROM THE FRONT DOOR:
-The Hello Kitty room at Keio Plaza Hotel
1. The rows of shopping and eating stalls leading to Senso-Ji Temple and the 35’ tall red lantern hanging from its gate.
-Vending machines: You will find one about every 100 yards all across Tokyo
2. The expansive and beautiful Ueno Park -The food vendors at Yakult Swallows baseball game
3. Kikko, super cute traditional Japanese restaurant 4. Asahi Beer HQ and the giant golden yam 5. National Museum of Nature and Science
4. Shibuya crossing is as cool as it looks on YouTube. Thousands of people line up to cross the street over and over again. The best place to watch it is from the second floor of the Starbucks on the corner.
-Pizza Slice: Maybe the best pizza we’ve ever had, anywhere
-The view from Tokyo Skytree: It is the tallest tower in the world at 2,080 feet
5. Check out the amazing street style and do some peoplewatching in Harajuku.
-The friends we met at the Apple store who taught us how to write Japanese characters on an iPad
6. Wake up early and go to the Tsujki fish market. There are so many people and so much energy. Be careful not to be run over. There are quite a few sushi restaurants. The wait, depending on the popularity, can be between two and five hours. Yes, the sushi is that good and that popular. 7. Eat at one of the 153 Michelin Star restaurants. There are more Michelin rated restaurants in Tokyo than there are in Paris. Tsuta is the first Tokyo ramen restaurant to earn a star.
-Cups of ice: Sold at nearly every convenience store.
8. Insert yourself into a real life Mario Kart game with a life size Mario Kart tour of the city. 9. Walk through the quiet gardens at the Imperial Palace to escape the city for a few hours. 10. Watch a sumo tournament or at least visit their stable. We met sumos at a nightclub called New Lex Tokyo while we were out drinking and dancing.
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All McDonalds in Tokyo are Pokemon gyms and Poke stops.
You should eat ramen every day. There are so many varieties. You should download RamenBeast from the Apple app store.
There are two airports. Narita is about an hour from the city. Haneda is about 15 minutes. Choose wisely.
OUR THREE FAVORITE PARTS OF TOKYO:
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POPCORN FLAVORS AT TOKYO DISNEYLAND
1. Corn Cottage 2. Soy Sauce and Butter 3. Curry 4. Honey 5. Strawberry 6. Milk Tea 7. Coconut 8. Cappuccino 9. Milk Chocolate 10. Jalapeño & Cheese
Remember, there are nine million people living in Tokyo in 23 different “wards” or cities. 1. Shibuya 2. Shinjuku 3. Ginza
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HERE KITTY KITTY
KEIO PLAZA HOTEL TOKYO 2-2-1 Nishi-Shinjuku Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo 160-8330 Japan 800.222.5346 www.keioplaza.com
A NIGHT AT THE KEIO PLAZA WITH OUR FAVORITE CAT You won’t want to say goodbye to Tokyo before saying Hello Kitty. The recently renovated Keio Plaza Hotel in Shinjuku boasts not one, but two Hello Kitty themed suites. The Princess Kitty and Kitty Town rooms are exactly what you might expect with details you would have never imagined. The bedding, photos, carpet, pillows and wallpaper are Hello Kitty themed as you
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might expect. What caught our eye was the attention to detail with themed hair dryers, scales, humidifiers, bottled water and even available to order cakes. The Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo is centrally located only a few blocks from one of the city’s largest train stations and is an easy ride directly to Narita International Airport.
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE: If you are not it the mood for Hello Kitty but still want an adventure, you can also choose from an Alice in Wonderland themed sweet buffet or order The Queen’s Dinner.
YOU ARE A TOURIST, ACT LIKE IT: -Go to Robot Restaurant. Have a few beers first and during, skip their dinner.
THE PENINSULA HOTEL If you were to drop a pin in the heart of Tokyo the pin would land in Ginza. Drop a pin in the heart of Ginza and you would land at the Peninsula Hotel. The two are perfectly matched. Stylish shops along the streets of Ginza are echoed in the sophisticated lobby of the hotel. The peace and tranquility of the Tokyo Imperial Palace across the street is carried through in the stylish and Zen rooms you will find at The Peninsula. From the moment we arrived at the hotel we knew we would come back. Every detail of your stay,
every plan you expected seems to be anticipated by the staff. Doors are always held open, you are escorted everywhere and always made to feel like a guest. Even though there are other amazing breakfast options nearby, we chose to eat in the lobby each morning. The food was that good. The room was quiet, comfortable and equipped with Wi-Fi. The perfect landing place to relax after walking 12 miles each day through a very loud, people-filled city. The Peninsula was our haven during our trip to Tokyo.
-Eat a crepe in Harajuku -Take a lot of annoying pics with a selfie stick. -Walk through the gorgeous Meiji Jingu shrine.
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1. Their Japanese breakfast is amazing. Grilled fish, rice, pickled vegetables and miso soup. Yum.
-Try crazy prepackaged foods from the 7-11 -Stay in the Hello Kitty suite at the Keio Plaza Hotel. It is HK down to the last detail.
TOKYO IS AS INSTAGRAM-WORTHY AS THEY COME 1. Shibuya Crossing 2. Harajuku Girls 3. Tokyo Tower
8 REASONS TO STAY AT THE PENINSULA TOKYO
2. The view of Tokyo Imperial Palace gardens from our Zen decorated room. 3. The separate changing room, closet and makeup mirror for Erin to get ready.
THE 5 EATS WE LOVED IN TOKYO!
-Ramen at Ichiran. This is a franchise but it is AMAZING! Expect an hour wait. Wait for it.
4. The Rolls Royce that is available to shuttle you from the airport, but we took the train. 5. The best location in the very center of the city and near train stations. 6. Amazing service. The white uniformed door staff never let us touch a door handle, and they were always gracious and helpful. If you asked where anything was they would escort you to it, never point.
-There are over 2,000 7-11’s. The prepackaged food is so fresh. You could survive eating here alone. Try a Chicken Saboro Bento.
-The Japanese Breakfast at The Peninsula Hotel
-The Omakse sushi offering at Daiwa at Tsujki Fish Market for breakfast.
7. Their three-wheel power trikes are a great way to see the city.
THE 7 BEST THINGS WE DID IN TOKYO: The amazing show at Robot Restaurant
Sushi at Daiwa Sushi at the Tsujiki Fish Market
Watching made-to-order ramen
Tokyo Disneyland, especially the flavored popcorns
Drinking Highballs (whiskey and soda) with our friends in Golden Gai -Matcha soft serve ice cream.
The talons of the Asian Eagle Owl at The Owl Cafe gripping my hand inside a leather glove
8. The toilet seats that heat, clean, pulse, deodorize and flush could probably do your taxes.
Honorable mention: Curry flavored Doritos
Karaoke! They bring you food and drinks and you pay by the hour
HOME/AWAY
FOREST
for the Trees The Perfect Getaway with O2 Treehouse Creator Dustin Feider WRITTEN BY: JESSICA DEUTCHMAN
You’ve probably seen one of Dustin Feider’s awe-worthy treehouse designs going viral on Instagram or popping up all across the blog-sphere. From fairytale teepees sitting among the trees to modern geodesic domes floating in the sky, Feider’s treehouses can only be described as imagination come to life. Feider has been building treehouses for years with a slew of diverse clients from around the country. “Our clients include residential homeowners who are looking for a play structure in their backyard or they’re looking for a cool hangout spot for themselves to write or relax.” From building quiet hideouts for famous musicians like Robbie Krieger, to a memorable treehouse in Healdsburg, CA, Feider’s structures span gamut of high-end treehouses. O2 treehouses are specially designed to be easily shipped in kits to anywhere around the globe, where Feider and his team can then put them back together. “It’s a very collaborative process with the client. Often the client has been dreaming of this for a long time … so it’s a really rewarding process of design. There’s so much space and artistic freedom and you’re making an aspirational space for somebody.”
TREEHOUSE FAVORITES: Ò Feider’s favorite treehouse was one he completed in Healdsburg, CA. It was an indoor/outdoor structure—very kinetic with many different levels to hangout in. It was based upon this certain type of spherical shape that you can dock together in clusters.
very quickly take you to that place of peace and openness, and freedom of thought.” Honoring Feider’s mission to help society connect better with nature, O2 treehouses are built to serve in a symbiotic relationship with the trees that harbor them. By using a unique geodesic design, Feider is able to create structures that distribute weight equally across all the branches of their housing tree, maintaining the integrity of each structure’s natural habitat rather than harming it. Even the floors are built in a way that leaves space for the branches of the tree to grow. Feider expands on this theme with gusto: “In our society, there’s such a separation that we have from nature. I mean our world is kind of set up to insulate us and protect us from risk and vulnerability that we have when being subjected to nature. But on the same accord, so much of public thought these days is trying to relax, trying to get out of this anxiety filled world to connect with nature in different ways.” Your O2 Treehouse escape can last for up to 20 years with proper trimmings every halfdecade or so to respect the tree. Aside from that, the sky is the limit, and Feider’s designs continue to get more and more innovative.
For Dustin, this process is about more than just shape or structure. It’s about creating a space for people to find peace in the chaos of today’s world and to reconnect with nature. “Nature just provides so much peace of mind and relaxation if you just allow yourself to be in that environment. And it’s difficult to get there. I live in East Oakland, and it’s even hard for me to practice what I preach, to get out and just sit in a natural setting. But a treehouse has the special dynamic that can
O2 TREEHOUSE www.O2treehouse.com 126 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
HOME PROVIDED BY: HÖM Sotheby’s International Reality, Newport Beach/Corporate Office, 1200 Newport, Center Dr Ste100, Newport Beach, CA 92660 | 949.554.1200 | www.homgroup.com
HOME/ AWAY G UIDE
(AWAY FROM HOME) WRITTEN BY: AMANDA LENOX AND TYLER HOLLAND PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NATASHA LEE STYLED BY: JACKIE ROSE PROPS STYLED BY: KAREN PATTERSON HAIR BY: JENNIFER MAU
OUR GUIDE TO NESTING, BEING THE PERFECT PARTY HOST AND MAKING AWAY FEEL LIKE HOME MAKEUP BY: BRIAN BOND, JULIE LAZAIRE GARNIER AND JENNIFER MAU MODELS: SOFIA VESPE, CANDICE COKE, ELISSA VILLA AND LIZ RIBOT OF BRAND MODEL AND TALENT AGENCY, www.brandtalent.net
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REAL ESTATE
RE-VAMP Trends, Tips and Tricks for a Home Makeover Finding your next home can be a daunting task. Looking into redecorating to keep up with the ever changing trends of interior design can be just as overwhelming. For those exploring the market or shaking things up on the homefront, we have created a guide with pro-tips and up-to-date trends—straight from the mouths of real estate and home décor experts.
FANTASTIC FEATURES: While it is confirmed that Justin Bieber himself has stayed at the home used in our shoot, listing agent Cedric Channels thinks that what will blow potential buyers away most are some of its features. With a unique pool area, with built in bar and kitchen
WELCOME HOME With Amy Adams: Senior Designer, J Hill Interiors Q: How important is it for people to make a budget when they’re redesigning their home? Amy Adams: Budget is important, primarily for expectations. It’s really helpful when a client expresses a budget, to me as a designer, so I can know how much they’re willing to invest in their home and it gives me a good guide on what type of furniture manufacturers to look at. Q: Where does one start when redecorating? AA: A designer is going to focus a lot on aesthetics and how 130 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
appealing the design is but it also has to be very functional. Knowing how you use your space and how functional you want it is a really great starting point when planning a design. Q: What are some trends that you’re seeing right now? AA: Trends vary on your location, so given our firm is in Coronado, we do a lot of transitional seaside to contemporary seaside types of colors and styles. The trends right now do tend to be more minimalist. Something I like to focus on, to create that timeless design, is having something that’s minimal.
Maybe having a monochromatic color scheme, but with a lot of different textures and bring in the textures of a wool rug, and linen or sateen pillows. Q: What is your favorite part of redecorating? AA: My favorite part is taking a space that a client is so familiar with and giving them something totally different. I get to connect with my client on that level of really transforming it into something that they love. J Hill Interiors 1307 Ynez Pl, Coronado, CA 92118 619.800.7935 | www.jhillinteriors.com
station, the home is perfect for any entertainer. There is also a recording studio inside the house! We can already hear the next Grammy winners filling the property with their sweet melodies… The home boasts 5 bedrooms, 9 bathrooms, is 10,200 sqft, and is listed for $17,500,000.
HOME PROVIDED BY: HÖM Sotheby’s International Reality Newport Beach/Corporate Office 1200 Newport Center Dr Ste100 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.554.1200 www.homgroup.com Listing Agents: Cedric Channels | BRE # 02004790 Julian Channels | BRE # 01984097
THE ESSENTIALS
9 Tips on the Perfect Floral Centerpiece for Your Home With Kristen Tebbetts of Bloomers of La Jolla
LEADER OF THE PACK
#1
Add Embellishments: If there are embellishments like pine cones, ornaments, or jingle bells included in your centerpiece, don’t be afraid to sprinkle some down the length of the table so guests on the end don’t feel left out.
#4
Keep it Fresh: Add water to your centerpiece. If it’s in a glass vase, change the water often! This will extend the life of your centerpiece and allow you and your company to appreciate its beauty beyond the big event.
Give it a Glow: Adding candles elevates the ambiance and brings class and warmth to the table.
#2
Go Green: Use a variety of greens from pine to magnolia leaves along with berries and pods. The various textures will make an interesting and beautiful centerpiece and will last the majority of the season versus just through the weekend.
#3
Keep Your Cool: If you’re preparing a meal for guests, chances are it’s going to be hot in your home. Make sure to keep your guests and flowers at a comfortable temperature. Delicate flowers such as hydrangeas can wilt quickly when overheated!
Be Aware of Your Space: You don’t want the table to feel overcrowded once you’ve added glassware and food. If your table is average size make sure you request that your centerpiece be narrow to accommodate the limited space.
#6
Check the Height: Make sure that the top of the floral arrangement does not exceed the height of your wrist when your elbow is placed upon the table. Centerpieces that are too tall can obstruct the view of guests across the table and hinder conversation.
Bloomers of La Jolla 7520 Eads Ave, Ste1, La Jolla, CA 92037 858.454.3913 | www.bloomersflowerslajolla.com
FLOOR IT!
Why You Need Hard Floors in Your Next Home Melissa Kovach: Vice President, Warren Christopher Flooring
#8
#5
Stay Cool, Add Heat in the Kitchen With Sub-Zero and Wolf Showrooms
#7
Ditch the Scent: Avoid flowers and candles with heavy fragrance. You don’t want guests to be overwhelmed or trigger someone’s allergies. You want them to be able to take in the scent from the delicious meal they’re about to enjoy.
#9
Leave It to a Professional: You want your flowers to reflect the effort you put into your event, so you want them to be perfect! You don’t want to feel rushed trying to put something together or regret your decision to save a few bucks at the last minute, with everything else you have going on. Your guests will be honored and you’ll feel stressfree and confident when your flowers are delivered for you and make the statement you want!
Q: What is the most popular wood that home owners are choosing to put in their homes these days? Melissa Kovach: The most requested wood we’re installing now is Engineered Western European Oak—an updated timeless look very popular now in design circles. Warren Christopher’s Euro Oak platform gives us a wide range of options for custom colors. The last few years have definitely been leaning towards the “grays” but we have come up with tons of custom colors that go more toward beige, taupe, and griege tones. The coordinate with most home styles, and don’t limit our clients to furnishing exclusively around gray.
Q: Gorgeous! Is it practical? MK: That’s the great thing about our Engineered Western European Oak—it’s ridiculously practical! For families, pets, beach life, or in the mountains—it’s sturdy, user-friendly, and stands up to a variety of weather and usage conditions. We have numerous options for texture as well (wire brushing, tumbling, antiqued, and more).We also finish most of our floors with an Ultra Matte Oil or Hard Wax Oil Finish. This is great for daily and yearly maintenance—literally, my seven-year-old cleans our floors! It’s also made from soy beans and coconut oil, which assist in retaining moisture in the floor. Q: What is a wood that will never go out of style? MK: The European Oak is truly timeless—an elegant, classic that will never feel dated or stale.
Q: What are the advantages to using real wood versus vinyl? MK: There is nothing that will look and feel like real wood. Real wood provides an elegance and patina that enhances your home like no other. For most people, their home is their largest investment—protect and enhance your investment with gorgeous, classic, and enduring real wood flooring. Warren Christopher Flooring 2435 E Coast Hwy Ste 3, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625 949.645.1406 | www.wchristopher.com
What are your top tips on how to clean your hard wood floors and make their beauty last? Maintenance will depend on the type of finish on the floor. We supply Maintenance Instructions & Cleaning Supplies for each client after the flooring install is complete. Re-coating or refreshing your flooring is key to making the beauty last for generations. We recommend re-coating your flooring every few years. A re-coat is a quick and simple process—we hand-abrade the existing clear finish off your floors, and add a new finish to protect the color of the floor. Although this technique does not eliminate deep gauges of scratches, it brings luster and beauty back into your valuable floors.
The holiday season is filled with parties, memorable moments and flavors to savor all fall and winter long. The mornings and nights sure to make an impression on you and those you love will be held in your home, and created in your kitchen. Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances are the tools to utilize when feasts are made and champagne chills before a celebratory New Year’s toast. How can you know if Sub-Zero’s full size refrigerator or their undercounter system is right for you? Which Wolf oven will ensure your grandmother’s chocolate chip cookies will be baked to perfection each time? At the Sub-Zero and Wolf Showroom in Orange County, you are free to attend classes, demonstrations and try out each appliance for yourself—before you buy a thing. The knowledgeable concierges at the showroom are there to answer any questions you have and stand beside you as you get hands-on with their products. With access to personal concierges, hours long appointments and thorough handson demonstrations, all that’s left for you to do is make the appointment. Purchase their products at Pirch in La Jolla. Featured In: Pirch Westfield UTC 4545 La Jolla Village Dr San Diego, CA 92122 858.966.3600 subzero-wolf.com
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HOME SWEET SOTHEBY’S San Diego Luxury Real Estate
MAKE THE SHIFT Resort-Style Living With Lennar LMC, a leader in the development of luxury rental communities nationwide, announces that it has broken ground on Shift Apartments, an upscale, apartment community located in the East Village neighborhood of San Diego. A neighborhood in the midst of a transformation, East Village is attracting young professionals who want to live and work where the action is. With early-adopter breweries, restaurants, galleries, bike shops, and now-arriving are universities and start-ups, the time has come for East Village. And the next wave is here to stake their claim. Situated in the heart of the East Village neighborhood, Shift will consist of 368 apartment homes and 19,000 square feet of ground floor retail. Architecture usually takes cues from the past, and sometimes it can help shape the future. Shift is a bold statement that uses design to announce East Village has LMC, A Lennar Company Western Headquarters 95 Enterprise, Ste 200 Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 949.448.1600 www.livelmc.com | www.shiftapts.com
arrived. It’s unique sculpted profile and exciting mix of retail and residential mean it is destined to become the landmark of the district. LMC has also started construction on Luma, which consists of 220 high-end apartment homes located in Little Italy. In addition, LMC has over 1,700 apartment homes planned or under construction in Southern California. Founded in 2011, LMC, a subsidiary of Lennar Corporation, is a multifamily real estate development company focused on assembling a diverse portfolio of institutional quality multifamily rental communities across the United States. As of May 31, 2016, LMC had eight completed and operating communities and 32 communities under construction, totaling approximately 12,000 apartments with a total development cost of $3 billion.
LMC Loves Pets Their communities are perfect for pet lovers with perks like luxury pet spas, pet meet and greets, and their exclusive “collar cams” where you can keep the adventure going while you’re away from home! All About Community LMC builds extraordinary communities for people who don’t just want a place to kick off their shoes…but a place to kick it. From on-site staff to your friendly neighbors next door, their exceptional associates are always busy building great homes and fun communities for their residents. And they support each other because, well, they just really like each other.
Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty, the leading luxury real estate company in San Diego, has grown to be San Diego’s largest locally-owned and operated real estate firm. Comprised of approximately 500 agents in 20 office locations throughout San Diego County, the company offers comprehensive real estate services supported by decades of experience, indepth knowledge of the San Diego market, in-house marketing and the resources of a global network of Sotheby’s International Realty affiliates. Recently, Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty was recognized by the San Diego Business Journal as one of San Diego’s Fastest Growing Private Companies as well as one of San Diego’s Largest Private Companies. According to Brian Arrington, CEO, Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty, “Our continued growth in the San Diego market is a combined result of the hard work of our experienced agents, the power of the Sotheby’s International Realty brand and our extensive local, national and global marketing efforts.” Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty Global Headquarters 1111 Prospect St La Jolla, CA 92037 858.926.3060 pacificsothebysrealty.com
HO-HO-
Food Provided By: Colette’s Catering and Events www.colettesevents.com
HOSTING How to Entertain for the Holidays When we look back on the holidays, our memories are pleasantly filled with the friends and family by our side, what foods we enjoyed and where we experienced these beautiful moments. Hosting an event over the holidays can feel like an overwhelming feat—unless you have the help you need along the way. From holiday décor to making sure the smallest details count, to cocktails that will make an impression, we have you covered.
KEEPING IT CLEAN WITH KATIE
How to Make a Location Feel Homey for Entertainment With Katie Koentje of NEAT Method Q: How do you stay organized before a holiday party? Katie Koentje: Preparation is key to being organized before a party. Determine your theme, if you have one, or what style of food and décor you want. We recommend making detailed lists and purchasing the items you can in advance so that you aren’t rushed right before! 134 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
Also, do as much food prep ahead of time as you can.
labeling your food and beverages for an extra touch!
Q: How do you stay organized during a holiday party? KK: During the party you should be enjoying yourself! By creating a drink station and a food station, the flow of the party will happen naturally. NEAT Method recommends
Q: How do you stay organized after a holiday party? KK: NEAT Method recommends having a specific area in your kitchen for entertaining, this is the space where your party platters are stored. You may even have a
basket for “party supplies” and a storage bin for party décor. By having systems in place the cleanup will be easy and less time consuming.
NEAT Method 858.952.9850 www.neatmethod.com
Apparel Provided By: BCBGMaxazria | www.bcbg.com
THE PARTY’S HERE
10 Tips for the Perfect Outdoor Soiree From Hannah Smith, Owner of Hannah Smith Events
#1
Pick Your Style Decide what type of party you want to host: a casual and cozy get together, an elegant dinner, a high energy bash, a quaint tea party, a simple al fresco meal, etc.
#5
Make Them Comfortable Offer guests items that are appropriate for your location: flip flops on the beach, blankets when it’s cool, sunglasses when near the water, fans when it’s hot. These are inexpensive items to help insure that your guests want to stay
#8
Keep it Easy If you don’t have traditional dining tables and chairs for guests, then keep food easy to eat. Many guests will snack while standing and mingling. If your event is causal, then don’t be afraid to serve on disposable plates.
SMART HOUSE
Photo Credits: #1 & #9 Hannah Smith Events | #2, #4, #6, #7 Walter Wilson Studios | #3 & #8 Shane and Lauren Photography | #5 Red Trolley Studio
#2
Food Hiring a professional chef or catering company is not always as expensive as one might think and takes a huge burden off of the host. If you want something more casual try a local taco cart or food truck.
#9
#6
Make it Look Good Height matters when it comes to display. Having everything at one level on a table can look flat and boring. Prop up a centerpiece or platter by putting it on top of an upside down bowl, book, block, or wooden crate.
Keep it Special and Unique Decorate with items you love, that represent your reason for gathering. If you’re celebrating an occasion or honoring someone, then let them know how special they are by including framed photos or a video.
#4
Music Play music in the background, social events can be incredibly awkward when there is dead silence.
William Grant & Sons’ Favorite Holiday Cocktails
1.
ANCHO REYES HOT CHOCOLATE:
#3
Drink Providing your own alcohol will save you money. Stick with a beer, wine and one signature cocktail.
6 CROWD PLEASING COCKTAIL RECIPES
• 1 1/2 parts Ancho Reyes Chili Liqueur
#10
#7
Brighten Your Space Invest in a little lighting for evening events. Wrapping tree trunks and patios with twinkle lights can be done well in advance. Add a rented chandelier for drama and elegance.
Last but Not Least Don’t drive yourself crazy trying to plan all of the logistics, getting the best deals, and finding the perfect decor, just hire an event planner so that you can enjoy your own party.
Hannah Smith Events 2604 B El Camino Real Ste 146 Carlsbad, CA 92008 760.453.7819 hannahsmithevents. com
• 3 to 4 parts hot chocolate • Heavy Cream • Nutmeg
2.
SAILOR & CIDER: • 1 part Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum
• 3 parts mulled cider • Cinnamon • Cloves
4.
A SIMPLE PLAN
• 1 oz Glenfiddich 12 Bourbon Barrel Reserve • 1 oz Cocchi Americano • 1 oz Amaro Nonino
HOLIDAY HIGHBALL
• 1.5 oz Glenfiddich 14 Bourbon Barrel Reserve • .5 oz St George Basil Eau de Vie
• 2 dashes Cherry Bark Bitters
• .25 oz honey syrup
*Stir and strain over ice
*Pour over ice in collins glass. Basil leaf garnish.
5.
• 4 oz cold Seltzer
Philips Hue Personal Wireless Lighting www.meethue.com
THE RED QUEEN • 100ml 3 fl oz cranberry juice
• 80ml 2.7 fl oz Hendricks gin • 40ml St Germain, Elderflower liqueur
3.
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Hot coffee
• Fresh cranberries threaded on cocktail sticks to garnish
TULLAMORE DEW IRISH COFFEE
6.
Transfer the smarts from your phone to your house with new gadgets and gizmos that can adjust mood lighting levels and even colors. Meet hue by Philips, a personal wireless lighting device that connects to your home Wi-Fi router and controlled through an app. Who needs switches anymore? By the touch of a button all the lightbulbs in your home can be adjusted to the specific liking of a resident, labeled with their name. You can even set an alarm for when you would like the lights to turn on or off, fade in and find the perfect hue for your holiday party. So, turn on your imagination!
• 2 Sugar Cubes • 1 oz Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey • 1 Whipped cream
William Grant & Sons www.williamgrant.com
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Apparel Provided By: BCBGMaxazria | www.bcbg.com
PATIO TRENDS
Today’s Outdoor Living Possibilities with Real Estate Professional, Jennifer Anderson Q: What does every backyard need to have? Jennifer Anderson: Buyers are looking for a secondary living space, or an outdoor living room, that’s lowmaintenance, visually appealing, and a manageable size. It’s now more on where they are spending their time, their view preferences, and the orientation of the lot. Q: What have future homeowners been looking for in a backyard? JA: A droughtresistant backyard is a key draw, so they can lock up and leave like a condo, but they still have the space. I think that’s where they’re more cautious, they don’t want to buy all of this land for the sake of having land. Baby Boomers and Millennials want flexibility and they don’t want to be tied down to more than anything they’re going to use.
Willis Allen Real Estate & Anderson Coastal Properties 1424 Camino Del Mar Del Mar, CA 92014 858.524.3077 willisallen.com andersoncoastalproperties.com
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5 NECESSARY ITEMS FOR THE HOST WITH THE MOST Suggestions from Zapher Dajani, Founder and Owner 1. Entertainment of some sort like music, live musician, and games. 2. Open Bar: make sure you have the popular beverages with Tito’s, Redbull and a good tequila.
SET THE TABLE
The Abbey Catering & Event Design Company Dishes on Hosting for the Holidays Planning the perfect holiday menu can be stressful and time-consuming, so leave the cooking to the professionals and hire the perfect catering company to suit your needs. The Abbey Catering Company caters over 225 holiday parties every year. Owner and Founder Zapher Dajani stresses the importance of listening to the clients’ needs to create each and every menu for their clients. “All of our menus are customized from scratch based on our clients’ vision, expectations, budget, and staffing requirements,” says Dajani. Planning a party at the last minute? The Abbey has The Abbey Catering & Event Design Co. 858.225.2349 www.theabbeycatering.com
you covered as Dajani says that they are able to plan parties quickly for up to 200 guests. Appetizers like their CaribbeanJerk Marinated Tofu Skewers or a main course of Panko Crusted Chicken drizzled in gorgonzola cream sauce will surely hit the spot. One of the unique ways The Abbey Catering serves up an amazing drink menu is with their “martini trees.” These custom, metal trees are able to hold nearly 100 glasses. Dajani says that “as guests arrive, they are invited to pick a drink from the tree. It sets off the event as a fun, unique party from the first impression.”
5 MUSTHAVE DESSERTS OVER THE HOLIDAYS Have These Tasty Treats at Your Next Party
1. Assorted mini Red Velvet Cupcakes
3. Décor: the mood is set with lighting, linens, flowers, and scents; create an experience.
2. Assorted Red Berry Tartlets
4. Amazing food appropriate for the time of day. For example, a party starting at 5 p.m. should be prepared to serve guests a very heavy appetizer menu or dinner.
5. Tiramisu Shot Glass
5. Venue: Pick a unique and comfortable venue. Places like community rooms, your home or even private venues— like the Cuvier Club—are perfect.
3. Mini French Petit Fours like Pistachio Nouga 4. S’mores Bar
BACKYARD BASH
5 Must-Haves For Your Outdoor Event 1. String Lights 2. Heat Lamps 3. Fire Pit 4. Blankets 5. Outdoor Bar
WINTER
WANDER-LAND Where to Escape for Vacations, Stay-cations and Getaways Winter is here. Although the season is meant to bring happiness and joy, it has been known to cause its fair amount of stress as well. Where should we go that everyone will agree with and what should we do once we get there? You wouldn’t want the hassle of planning a trip that only interested some of the group, right? Fortunately, LOCALE knows the hotspots and can easily recommend more than enough to fill your holiday season with activities sure to please even the pickiest of travelers. Keep reading and Happy Holidays!
SHERATON CARLSBAD RESORT & SPA
ANDAZ SAN DIEGO
RISE AND WINE
Best Morning Cocktails PB SHORE CLUB Bloody Mary Pacific Beach pbshoreclub.com HERRINGBONE Bottomless Mimosas La Jolla herringboneeats.com
IT’S IN THE BAG
FIG TREE CAFE Beermosa Hillcrest figtreeeatery.com
Keep Your Weekend Within Reach Los Angeles based designer Clare Vivier’s stylish bags feature classic lines with interesting details and the highest quality workmanship, making her bags true investment pieces that can be worn for many years. Her brand, Clare V., is now globally known, and these days her designs are cherished by women of all ages, whether their style choices are laid-back and French-inspired, modern and trendy, or classically preppy. Her loyal fan base includes Jessica Alba, Katie Holmes, and Sophia Bush, to name a few A-listers. Clare V.’s latest travel collection features luggage tags in colors like white Amalfi with black and blue splash pattern, and russet skirting with neon pink stripe. Her passport cases come in charcoal with red and royal blue stripes. And her popular weekender bag is available in salmon, camel, and periwinkle with Italian navy handles. Clare V. clarev.com/collections/travel
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CAFE 21 California Greenin’ San Diego cafe-21.com URGE GASTROPUB Where Eagles Dare Oceanside urgegastropub.com
WINNER WINNER, Perfect Dinner
TAKING OFF!
FISH 101 Encinitas fish101restaurant.com
Vacation Destinations to Swoon Over Andaz San Diego
www.sandiego.andaz.hyatt.com u Located in the historic and
trendy Gaslamp district with countless activities all within walking distance, Andaz is perfect for those seeking easy access to San Diego’s sights, restaurants, and nightlife. Andaz’s sleek and modern styling perfectly complements the surrounding environment and makes each room feel like an extension of the neighborhood. The addition of a state of the art meeting space, wedding venue and rooftop bar all make this the perfect spot to fully take advantage of San Diego’s vibrant downtown.
Cape Rey Carlsbad
www.caperey.com u Carlsbad is known for its
promotion of the outdoors lifestyle and Cape Rey takes this to heart. Offering access to local deep sea fishing, surfing lessons, paddle boarding, horseback riding, kayaking and snorkeling, the adventurous types among us will have no problem finding something to do. If relaxation is more your thing, hot air balloon rides are offered, but if you prefer keeping your feet on the ground, there is always the Ocean Crest Spa, which is ranked by Travel & Escape as one of the top five Hotel Spas in the U.S.
Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
FLORENT Downtown florentsd.com
vibrant yet relaxed Pacific Beach community, Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa is in a prime location for those looking to enjoy the coastal lifestyle San Diego is famous for. Just three miles from SeaWorld, 12 miles from the San Diego Zoo and eight miles from San Diego International Airport, nothing is too far away. Water sports packages are also available for those who simply wish to take advantage of the proximity to Mission Bay.
LUMBERYARD TAVERN Encinitas lumberyard101.com
www.catamaranresort.com u Located in San Diego’s
THE LOCAL EATERY Downtown thelocalsandiego.com OCEANA COASTAL KITCHEN Pacific Beach catamaranresort.com CUCINA ENOTECA Del Mar urbankitchengroup.com/ cucina-enoteca-del-mar
L’AUBERGE DEL MAR
L’Auberge Del Mar
www.laubergedelmar.com u Some hotels are places to rest your
head after a busy day of sightseeing and exploration and some are destinations in themselves. Del Mar’s L’Auberge falls in the latter and with its consistent ranking as one of the top hotels in San Diego, as well as being a AAA Four Diamond Property. This beautifully designed hotel draws inspiration from the coastal estates lining the picturesque shores and will leave you feeling rejuvenated in no time. Pendry San Diego
www.pendryhotels.com/san-diego u Located in the heart of San Diego’s
vibrant Gaslamp District, Pendry offers a balance between traditional Southern Californian design and modern amenities, resulting in a relaxed retreat in the middle of the busy city. Six restaurants and bars also showcase the cuisine and libations San Diego has become known for. From modern coastal cuisine to a wide selection of local craft beer, you can find it all under one roof. The Lodge at Torrey Pines
www.lodgetorreypines.com u Situated by the world famous Torrey
Pines Golf Course, site of the 2008 and 2021 U.S. Open Championships, The Lodge is a golf lover’s dream, but you don’t have to be an avid golfer to appreciate the beautiful craftsmanship and relaxed vibe that make this ecofriendly establishment so well known. In between La Jolla and Del Mar, The Lodge offers proximity to some of the finest seaside communities Southern California has to offer. There is even a complimentary chauffeur service that takes guests to La Jolla Shores, a mile long stretch of beach favored by tourists and locals alike. Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa
www.sheratoncarlsbad.com u Whether you’re looking forward
to a round of golf with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, a fun filled day at LEGOLAND or a relaxing retreat from the real world, Sheraton
Carlsbad Resort & Spa has what you are looking for. With a private entrance to LEGOLAND only available to Sheraton guests, it’s easy to head over for a whole day or afternoon without facing the hassles often associated with theme parks. After your adventure, take advantage of their world-class Ocean Pearl Spa or dine in the elegant yet casual TWENTY/20 restaurant. Manchester Grand Hyatt www.manchester.grand.hyatt.com u What’s a vacation without a little
shopping? Manchester Grand Hyatt’s prime downtown location gives easy access to the can’t be missed shopping destination Seaport Village, as well as the vast array of restaurant and nightlife options downtown has to offer. Gaslamp Quarter, Petco Park, and the Convention Center are all within walking distance (or a short Uber!). Rancho Bernardo Inn
www.ranchobernardoinn.com u Everything in the name of comfort
is provided at Rancho Bernardo Inn. From custom artwork to a private patio or balcony, each guest room is set up to feel more like a second home than a hotel room. A smartphone app has even been made available, allowing you to contact the concierge, make dining and golf reservations and much more all from the palm of your hand. Several pools, beautiful gardens with 21 artistically crafted fountains, a championship golf course, spa and a fitness center make the resort all inclusive. Deciding whether to spend the day at the resort or go sightseeing may be a tougher choice than you first thought. Fairmont Grand Del Mar
www.fairmont.com/san-diego u Fairmont Grand Del Mar brings the
charm and sophistication of Spanish and Mediterranean estates to sunny Southern California. A perfect fit due to the similarities in climate and sunshine. Experience the unparalleled Five Diamond service that has made this Trip Advisor’s #1 Luxury Hotel in California.
ROAD TRIPPIN’
Top 5 Cars to Take For a Road Trip 1. 2016 Jaguar F-Type S Convertible 2. 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
LIVING LIFE ON THE LEDGE
3. 2017 Honda Fit EX Hatchback 4. 2013 Mini Cooper S Hatchback
Kick Back and Relax in Style Living in California means near-constant sunshine and more beautiful days than not. For anyone seeking a great tan while relaxing poolside, it’s hard to think of a better place. However, there are those minor inconveniences we have to deal with. It’s easy to get uncomfortable on those hot days and want a cooling dip in the pool, but at the same time, those deck chairs are just too comfortable to leave. That’s where the ledge lounger comes in. With its waterproof and UV resistant material, you can now enjoy relaxing and tanning surrounded by the cooling effects of the water. Why not get the best of both worlds?
Ledge Lounger www.ledgeloungers.com
5. 2017 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque HSE Hoehn Motor Cars hoehnmotors.com LAFAYETTE HOTEL, SWIM CLUB & BUNGALOWS
STAYCATION, ALL YOU EVER WANTED Escape the Day-to-Day at a Paradise in Your Own Backyard Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows
www.lafayettehotelsd.com u Located in San Diego’s vibrant
and artsy North Park District, the Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows is built in a grand colonial style, giving the venue historical landmark status. It is also home to the famed Weissmuller Pool which was designed by the former Tarzan and five-time Olympic gold medal winner Johnny Weissmuller. Today the pool has become a local and visitor favorite and is consistently voted as one of the best pools in San Diego. Britt Scripps Inn
www.brittscripps-inn.com u The Britt Scripps Inn is a city
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landmark originally constructed in 1887. The Victorian-styled home went through many changes before the current owner beautifully restored it to its former charm, creating a unique hotel the city has to offer in the process. A stay here is like being transported back in time, but without having to forego amenities like Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, and climate control. The location also gives guests easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment while still keeping
the relaxed and laid-back feel many travelers desire after a busy day or night out. TOWER23 Hotel
www.t23hotel.com u Named after Pacific Beach’s
lifeguard tower 23 stationed directly outside the hotel, TOWER23 is one of San Diego’s luxury lifestyle hotels on the beach. Craving a spa day? You don’t even have to leave your room as the spa will come to you! Professional massage therapists offer everything from facials to fitness services. After your spa treatment, head to the Tower Deck, exclusively available for hotel guests, and sip cocktails while watching the sunset. Grande Colonial www.thegrandecolonial.com u Interested in a luxurious
getaway with a twist? The generations-old rumor is that the Grande Colonial is haunted with reported ghostly encounters in hallways, guestrooms and the kitchen. There have even been reports of loud noises coming from above the bakery, which used to be two apartments owned by two young ladies and two young men known for throwing wild parties. Whether
this is real or simply imaginations running wild, you decide. Either way, this pristine beachside La Jolla location is sure to please. Keating House
www.keatinghouse.com u This beautifully restored
turn of the century bed and breakfast is an excellent example of the Queen Anne Victorians homes during the boom years of the 1880s. One of the city’s best Bed and Breakfasts, this establishment features original colors and touches such as stenciled ceilings. Each room is unique, providing a different experience for each guest. Carter Estate Winery and Resort
www.carterestatewinery.com u Experience the Temecula
wine country like never before with a stay at Carter Estate Winery and Resort. Whether in your plush bungalow suites or relaxing with their in-room spa and poolside services, you won’t want to leave. Grab a bite at Vineyard Grill or plan an afternoon in the tasting room— the choice is yours. Regardless, kickback and sip on some fine vino and enjoy a staycation with endless possibilities.
PACK HEALTHY
Whole Foods Roadtrip Essentials Popcorn, and other quick, crunchy snacks 1. Fresh fruit 2. Dried fruit 3. Jerky: beef, turkey, bison 4. Baggie of Nuts from the bulk department 5. Pre-cut veggies with dips like ranch and hummus 6. Drinks: Iced tea, Lemonade 7. Fresh baked goods 8. 365 Everyday Value Organic Granola Bars 9. Handwipes Whole Foods Market wholefoodsmarket.com
WORKING FOR THE WEEKEND Get Away for the Weekend, Only Miles from San Diego LAS VEGAS Drai’s Beachclub • Nightclub • After Hours www.draislv.com
Drai’s Las Vegas is where you need to be for your weekend getaway party. For the day, splash around in one of the rooftop oasis’ eight sparkling pools while listening to hiphop inspired EDM from live DJs, complete with champagne sprays, beach balls and all. Who knows who may slide through Drai’s Nightclub to serve up a full-length concert performance on the night you’re there… Future, maybe? Travis Scott? Trey Songz? Located on the roof of The Cromwell, the roster of resident artists is unmatched at the dazzling venue. Go to the basement of the boutique hotel and find yourself at After Hours where four underground rooms where half play hip-hop and the others EDM until the late hours of the morning. Make sure you pack your most glamorous high-heels and your finest button-up shirts; You’ll want to dress to impress. Native Knowledge: Drai’s has the first and only full-length nightlife concert series with Drai’s LIVE. You can expect to see the biggest names in hip-hop, R&B, and pop like Future, G-Eazy, Tip “T.I.” Harris and more. If I were you, I’d get your tickets now!
GREATER PALM SPRINGS Two Bunch Palms Spa Resort
www.twobunchpalms.com u Operating since the 1940s, Two Bunch
Palms Spa Resort was once known as a hideaway for Hollywood celebrities and historic gangsters alike, along with those seeking the curative powers of the mineral lithium rich hot springs that first drew people to the location. Currently, it is the oldest hot mineral springs resort in the country as well as America’s first carbonneutral resort. Not only can you leave feeling totally relaxed and pampered, but you can also feel good about supporting an ecologically friendly resort. LOS ANGELES The Georgian
www.georgianhotel.com u The Los Angeles area has long drawn
tourists from all corners of the world seeking a taste of old Hollywood feeling glamor. The Georgian offers this vintage
charm paired with modern amenities amongst the famous Santa Monica backdrop. The central location allows guests easy access to the sights and attractions the area has to offer. ORANGE COUNTY The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/california/ laguna-niguel u Situated on top of a 150 foot bluff
overlooking Laguna’s scenic coast, the Ritz Carlton is perfect for those seeking rest and relaxation while surrounded by South Orange County’s stunning natural beauty. This scenic backdrop takes center stage in all aspects of the resort, from the state of the art fitness center to the numerous fine dining establishments available. ORANGE COUNTY Montage Laguna Beach
www.montagehotels.com/lagunabeach u Located on a coastal bluff above the
Pacific, Montage offers 30 acres of pristine views and luxury in the middle of one of Southern California’s most well-known artist communities. Montage takes on the spirit of the community it is situated in, featuring local art throughout the resort and venues such as the 20,000 foot spa, two pools and restaurants that take advantage of the breathtaking views that surround the property. Interested in taking advantage of the several recreational activities nearby such as surfing, hiking, whale watching tours and sailing? All it takes is a quick call to the concierge service and your day’s activities are set. ORANGE COUNTY Surf & Sand Resort
www.surfandsandresort.com u Resembling a sun bathed Mediterranean
village, Surf & Sand incorporates coastal elements into all aspects of the resort. Spectacular views of the Pacific are complemented by oceanic colors seen in textiles and custom furnishings. Even the poolside cabanas incorporate beach elements through their wave-inspired structures. This resort truly embraces the charm that has made Laguna Beach loved by locals and tourists alike.
PHOTO BY: Amanda Proudfit
SURF AND SAND
HOME PROFILE
A HOME DÉCOR
EMPIRE J O N AT H A N A D L E R ’ S HAPPY ACCIDENT TURNED CAREER
WRITTEN BY: ELAINE CUTTING PHOTOS COURTESY OF: JONATHAN ADLER
From eye-catching gold accents, to fun creative statement pieces, to notyour-run-of-the-mill furniture and lighting, the wonderfully creative work of Jonathan Adler is almost always recognizable. Jonathan Adler delves into a unique and eye catching world inspired entirely by his own incredible mind and hands. The company has been around for 23 years, and as Adler puts it, they’ve been adding “Modern American Glamour to your home since 1993.” Adler’s contributions to home design shine brightly in any setting, as does his wonderfully creative personality.
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“Creativity is an auspicious undertaking and I try not to think about it too much. I keep my eyes and mind wide open.” — J O N AT H A N A D L E R
JONATHAN ADLER FASHION ISLAND 579 Newport Center Dr Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.759.0017 www.jonathanadler.com LOCALE MAGAZINE | 145
GOOD AS GOLD: Though he doesn’t pay much attention to trends, Adler likes to fill a home with gold tones.
ADLER’S GUIDING M OT TO : “If your heirs won’t fight over it, we won’t make it.”
H
e began as a production potter in New York City. However, the roots of the designer Jonathan Adler stretch much further back. He describes his journey to complete home design as a “creative odyssey” and he wouldn’t change one step in the process. Adler’s taste for décor began at summer camp, where he instantly took a liking for pottery class. “I wish I could say there was some indefinable force that drew me to the pottery classes at camp,” says Adler. “But the truth is that I thought the instructor was cute.” However, no matter what it was that drew Adler to the class, it became evident that pottery was something Adler was passionate about. “The moment I touched clay, there was a connection,” he recalls.
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“I’m always trying to pare things back and subtract until I get to the very essence of a line or gesture.” —JONATHAN ADLER
From that summer camp, Adler decided to pursue this passion for pottery. He begged his parents for a pottery wheel for his Bar Mitzvah and later went on to major in semiotics and art history at Brown University. Adler began to develop his delightfully different artistic passions and view. “I’d like to think I’m successful at creating an impeccably chic foundation and adding a whisper of humor,” says Adler. “That perfect mix of chic and irreverence is what I strive for.” However, his professors didn’t quite see at the same level. “My pottery teacher told me I had no talent and I should move to New York and become a lawyer,” Adler recalls. Unfortunately, Adler took this advice and strayed from his passion to attempt a more “suitable” career at a talent agency. After moving to New York and being fired from multiple jobs, Adler realized the entertainment industry and the life of an employee was not for him. He needed room for his creativity, a space to create and to expand and to share his creativity with the world. So, Adler began a production pottery business. It was grueling work. Adler made everything by hand, working as long as 12 hours a day, seven days a week, striving to make his creative ideas into realities. “The rest of my career has been a happy accident,” he says. Jonathan Adler The Pottery Company slowly began to snowball into other categories, avalanching into a complete home décor business. “I started making pillows because I found unbelievably talented weavers in Peru when I was there looking at a pottery workshop,” says Adler. “I started making furniture because I needed something to display the pillows and pottery on. I started making lighting because I couldn’t find lamps I liked, etcetera.” Now, the name Jonathan Adler is a world renowned home design empire built on the creative mind of one man. The unique and eye-
catching designs mixed with the fun, brilliant creations of Adler strike a chord with anyone looking for something different and fun. His designs are featured all over the world, sold in millions of stores and featured in countless hotels, businesses and homes. Although in order to keep up with the sheer mass of demand, he’s had to expand his workforce, Adler still keeps the creativity alive by working with his hands. “I’m in the pottery studio every day,” he says. “The pottery studio is on one side of my office and the kiln is on the other. I work out all my ideas behind the wheel.” Despite all his success, Adler remains humble. His proudest success isn’t in a fancy hotel or the design of a rich celebrity home (although he would like to give Madonna a shout out “I’d love to do Madonna’s pad—if you’re reading this, call me!” he says). Adler’s strongest success can be found in his home on Shelter Island. “It’s full of the stuff and the people I love most,” he says “and I designed every inch of it.” So what’s next for Jonathan Adler? He’s always striving, always challenging himself and always wanting to improve. “Though some might accuse me of being a maximalist, I’m really a minimalist,” he says. “I’m always trying to pare things back and subtract until I get to the very essence of a line or gesture. Currently, I’m challenging myself to go even further into what I call “elementalism.” Perhaps it’s a reaction to the chaos on our planet, but I’m constantly striving to express myself with evermore-simplified forms.” For now, Adler just strives to create art and fun out of the necessities of a home and to fill a space with works that inspire conversation and light tones. His main goal: to be true to his own talent and ideas. “Creativity is an auspicious undertaking and I try not to think about it too much,” Adler says. “I keep my eyes and mind wide open.”
“I’d like to think I’m successful
at creating an impeccably chic
foundation and adding a whisper
of humor. That perfect mix of chic
and irreverence is what I strive for.” — J O N AT H A N A D L E R
FI R ST AN D
#GOALS SCORE OCEAN VIEWS AND A FRESH MENU WHILE CHEERING ON YOUR FAVORITE TEAM
WRITTEN BY: EMILY TORRES PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOSIE GONZALES
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WONDERLAND OCEAN PUB 5083 Santa Monica Ave, Ste 2C San Diego, CA 92107 619.255.3358 www.wonderlandob.com
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DID YO U K N O W ?
Fun Facts About Wonderland Ocean Pub 1. Wonderland Ocean Pub is named after Wonderland Park, San Diego’s first amusement park (before the heyday of Belmont Park!) that debuted in Ocean Beach on July 4, 1913! 2. Every evening at sunset, the staff passes out shots to everyone (free for bar patrons and $3 for restaurant patrons). When the sun falls below the horizon line, Wonderland staff rings a giant bell while everyone toasts one another! 3. Wonderland has a rotating draft list filled with San Diego craft beers. There are always 25 plus choices on tap!
To uc hdown! As Super Bowl LI approaches, diehard football fans are already scoping out where to catch the Big Game and the playoff action leading up to the matchup. Dozens of San Diego sports bars offer flat screen TVs, pub fare, and noisy rival fans, but Wonderland Ocean Pub in Ocean Beach raises the stakes for these footballoriented bars. Not only does Wonderland offer dozens of flat screen TVs and fellow football fanatics to cheer with, but the restaurant and bar steps up its game by offering innovative coastal-infused pub fare, a friendly neighborhood atmosphere where every patron is family and killer ocean views that can’t be found anywhere else. 150 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
Wonderland Ocean Pub sits at the corner of Santa Monica Avenue and Abbott Street above soon to be Ocean Beach Surf Lodge in the heart of Ocean Beach steps away from the sand and surf. The restaurant itself embodies San Diego—and quirky Ocean Beach—with a nautical theme apparent upon entrance. From the light fixtures to the wood ceiling that mimics the interior of a ship to the mermaid mascot, Wonderland gives off a breezy, laidback vibe that doesn’t let its guests forget they’re lucky enough to live next to the water! The remainder of the bar is decked out with huge flat screens, a pool table, shuffleboard and foosball tables. An entire wall covered in athletes’ biggest fails gives the bar a unique OB touch. The casual restaurant and bar are widely known for its wall of windows that overlooks the entirety of Ocean Beach. If you’re lucky enough to snag a bench seat along the water-facing windows, you can enjoy the game and the food with a prime panoramic view of the Pacific and the historic Ocean Beach pier. Don’t worry though—any seat in the house can easily catch a beachy view between plays on the big screen! Beyond the relaxed, unassuming vibe and picturesque ocean views, Wonderland offers a fresh take on traditional sports bar fare, which is perfect for fueling your Super Bowl watch party. The menu features a variety of game
time apps—try their Salt & Pepper Wings, Killer Nachos, and Fresh Spring Rolls. If your group rivalry is strong, stick to the Woco Moco or the Short Rib Rolled Tacos as individual entrees! The Woco Moco is among Wonderland’s signature dishes—a grilled hamburger patty, kale and garlic fried rice, two sunny-side up eggs and house made beef gravy. The Short Rib Rolled Tacos are a twist on California’s infamous taco obsession equipt with slow cooked short rib, corn tortillas, lettuce, cheese, cilantro salsa and avocado mash topped with the hot house sauce. If you are feeling inspired by the views while watching the game, opt for the Mac Daddy Ahi Poke, IPA Fish & Chips, Lobster Tacos or Oysters! Wonderland offers over 25 beers on tap to wash your game time grub down and toast to when your team takes the lead. The majority of beers on draft are from local craft breweries, celebrating San Diego’s reputation as craft beer capital. The entire venue is easygoing and sports-oriented, perfect for grabbing fresh seafood and icy drafts while catching the game. Whether you are cheering on the San Diego Chargers (as you should), the New England Patriots, the Seattle Seahawks, the Pittsburgh Steelers or any team in between, Wonderland treats its patrons like family. This contagious attitude passes between fellow restaurant guests, all rivalries aside.
C R OWD PL E A S ER S
Top 5 Apps To Order While Watching the Game
Pescadero Sampler Mac Daddy Ahi Poke, Fresh Fish Ceviche and Baja Shrimp Cocktail
\
Killer Nachos Corn tortilla chips, mixed cheeses, pico de gallo, raw jalapeños, black beans, sour cream, and fresh avocado mash Salt & Pepper Wings Sea salt, cracked pepper, fried scallions, jalapeños and red chili flakes Hot Beer Cheese & Salty Pretzel Bowls Homemade beer cheese made with Stone Smoked Porter Buffalo Cali Flower Seasoned cauliflower florets fried and tossed in house buffalo wing sauce served with blue cheese dressing
TH E H A P P I E ST HOUR
Celebrate Your Team With Wonderland’s Happy Hour Specials Monday-Friday, 3-6 p.m. $1 off tacos, $1 off drafts, $2 off wines, $3 off mules Mussel Up Monday, 6-10 p.m. Half-off mussels and oysters
Sunday Brunch, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Champagne until 2 p.m. $10 bottles of Champagne, $5 red or white sangria by the glass Select Chargers Games, All Day Sunday $15 buckets of beer, $4 select drafts, $5 Black Magic Spiced Rum
Interview With Wonderland’s
Executive Chef Sven Rusch Q: What should guests look forward to at Wonderland? Sven Rusch: Guests should look forward to our fresh local products—seafood, oysters, mussels, fresh fish. We also offer a well-rounded menu to offer something for everyone who comes in. Q: What inspires Wonderland’s flavors and dishes? SR: Our beer selections, along with our location, inspire me to focus on a seafood-heavier side of culinary creativity. I’m also inspired by the OB way of being healthy. Q: How do you integrate San Diego, and specifically Ocean Beach’s, vibes into the menu? SR: I like to use the Ocean Beach vibe to keep things fresh and exciting—offering the best of local seafood and produce. Our craft beer selection is very important to San Diego beer drinkers. We offer the best of craft beers. Q: What are your must-order items on the menu? SR: My go-to menu items are: Mac Daddy Poke, Surfer Teriyaki, Beer Cheese, Da Kine Guacamole and Fish and Lobster Tacos. For brunch, I love the Short Rib Machaca, Woco Moco, and the Breakfast Croissant. Q: What food and beer pairings do you recommend? SR: Any IPA with our Fish and Chips; the Alpine Duet pairs nicely. I also recommend the Resident Blond with any of our tacos. It also pairs nicely with the Farmer’s Market Salad. The Resident Pale Ale and Modern Times Pale Ale pairs well with the Poke and with our Pescadero Sampler. On the darker side, the Resident Porter pairs with the Short Rib Burger.
SU CASA Our sneak peek inside gorgeous local homes
info@willisallen.com and 877.515.7443 www.willisallen.com
PARADISE FOUND
YOU R MAN S I O N AWA I TS I N TH E C O VENANT
WRITTEN BY: WILL LANGE PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: WILLIS ALLEN REAL ESTATE
Driving west on Del Dios Highway toward Rancho Santa Fe inspires a limitless frame of mind. Shimmering Eucalyptus trees mottle the sunlight on the road, and around every curve, a vintage Ferrari or liveried Bentley motors by. It feels exclusive—because it is. This area of Rancho Santa Fe, known as “The Covenant,” has always been the most desirable zip code in San Diego County. As you continue to travel deeper into it, you can see why: peeking through the trees and past privacy hedges and ornate gates are glimpses of a life most can only imagine. All of it makes you wonder just who lives there.
LISTING AGENTS: Linda Daniels | CA BRE# 00545941 | 858.361.5561 Linda Sansone | CA BRE# 01219378 | 858.775.6356
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DEL DIOS RANCH 7010 El Camino Del Norte Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
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T
he answer comes with names like Microsoft’s Bill Gates, the Beach Boys lead singer Mike Love and the former owner of the San Diego Padres, John Moores, to name just a few.
Even with all of the elegance surrounding you, when you turn onto El Camino Del Norte and see the iconic Del Dios Ranch in the distance, you know that what you’re seeing is truly remarkable. A long private driveway follows a flowing brook dotted with palm trees; a sprawling Valencia orange grove covers the hillside and blocks the view of the main house—you’ll drive for what seems like an eternity, leaving the world you know behind you, and when the residence comes into view, it takes your breath away.
Designed by famed architect Fred Briggs in 1969, the 8,148 Sq. ft. main building took three years to complete and it shows the effort. Constructed out of redwood, glass and concrete, this grand and modern design has a decidedly ethereal quality. It is at once modern and organic. Its light and airy feel is owed to expansive glass walls, but poured concrete reminds you it is as solid as granite.
Head to the right and you’ll find a series of guest suites looking into the entrance courtyard on one side and out to the property on the other. Both of these rooms boast private bathrooms, complete with marble showers and sinks and ample closet space. A beautifully curved spiral staircase leads up to the second story, which is entirely dedicated to the master suite and office.
Pushing through the front gates you’re hit by an instant sense of calm. On either side of the walkway, Lily ponds lift organic bronze sculptures just above the water’s surface. Finally crossing the threshold onto the radiant-heated marble floors, you’re instantly drawn to the living room. There, the soaring vaulted ceilings and massive fireplace highlight furnishings and decor chosen by celebrated designer Arthur Elrod.
A private aerial walkway leads toward an office filled with light. With expansive views and a quiet feel, the space allows an area for reflection but is large enough to accommodate a business meeting. Heading down the hall you are quickly secluded in the master suite. A large, beautiful marble bathtub and separate shower also boast huge windows allowing you to feel as though you are bathing in
“A BEAUTIFULLY CURVED SPIRAL STAIRCASE LEADS UP TO THE SECOND STORY, WHICH IS ENTIRELY DEDICATED TO THE MASTER SUITE AND OFFICE.” 154 | LOCALE MAGAZINE
Flower Power The property’s vast orchards and groves are certified organic and can be income-producing for the new owner. Extra Room The property boasts over 15,000 Sq. Ft. of enclosed buildings.
“LEAVING THIS PROPERTY IS SOMETHING AKIN TO WAKING UP FROM A GREAT DREAM.”
nature. An ample amount of uniquely designed closet space also ensures that you’ll never run out of room for your custom tailored clothing. The bedroom itself is a masterpiece of serenity and design. Everything from the beam work to the windows seem to respond to the occupant and give them exactly the mood they need for a peaceful night of rest. Down the immense hall to the left, you’ll find the kitchen and dining area. A massive island, fit to prepare a feast, stretches endlessly through the room. The stainless steel hood hanging suspended from the ceiling is wrapped in burnt orange lending a uniquely retro touch. A spacious seating area across from it, complete with fireplace, allows you unobstructed views across the property. The furthest wing of the house is dedicated to the indoor pool and sauna. Standing at the water’s
edge and looking up gives you the sense you have entered a cathedral. Incredible beam work crosses countless skylights that allow the quality of light to change with the moods of the weather. At times, it will glow softly and at others, light up in a passionate red and purple.
pristine acres it encompasses, 160 are available for further development. The school district is privy to some of the highest ratings in the nation, making the covenant the perfect place for families to stake their roots. Add all of that up and for a savvy investor, the possibilities are endless.
Sweeping out from the main house, you’ll find the finely manicured grounds encompass so much more than what has already been seen. A gorgeous six-stall equestrian facility sits perched on the lower edge of the property. Citrus groves and orchards fan out, providing tonnage of organic produce. A tennis court provides easy entertainment and a private lake makes an exceptional place to contemplate.
Leaving this property is something akin to waking up from a great dream. You know you’ve been there, and you understand it was amazing, but at first you can’t put your finger on why. All you know is that there’s a lightness to your body, and a smile on your face. But then the memories come flooding back in and you remember. You’ve been to a home for the gods, and at least for now, you still feel like one.
Beyond all of these truly incredible features is a single, undisputable fact that gives Del Dios Ranch its unprecedented $85,000,000 value. Of the 210 LOCALE MAGAZINE | 155
thank YOU
TO OUR PARTNERS Alternative Strategies
Ladeki Restaurant Group
Andaz
Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows
BCBG Max Azria Group
Lumberyard Tavern
Bloomers of La Jolla
Magic Bullet
Blue Ocean Robata & Sushi Bar | Love Boat Sushi
Miramonte Resort & Spa
Board & Brew
Nook Real Estate
Rise & Shine Restaurant Group | Breakfast Republic
Oceana Restaurant
Brian’s 24
Puesto
Cenci Ventures
Pure Barre East Village
Cinèpolis
Quartyard
Classic Club
RMD Group
Clique Hospitality
San Diego Museum of Art
Cody’s La Jolla
Schaffer Dental Excellence
Drai’s Beach Club
Sheraton Carlsbad
PB Shore Club | Miss B’s Coconut Club
Social Syndicate
Duke’s
Solare Ristorante
Eat.Drink.Sleep
Solterra Winery
Evans Hotel | Catamaran Resort
The Acoustic Spot
Evolution Hospitality
The Headquarters at Seaport
FERN
The Patio Group
Fish 101
Pendry San Diego
Florent Restaurant
Umansky Plastic Surgery
Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau
Verant Group
Green Dragon Tavern & Museum
Wells Fargo
Hakkasan Group | Omnia
Wild Dove Boutique
Hoehen Motor Cars
William Grant & Sons
Jake’s Del Mar
Wood Group
K1 Speed Racing
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