Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 1

OFFICIAL OJAI VALLEY ANNUAL READERS’ POLL

You voted!

Join us in honoring the winners

2023

2 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 3

www.AttitudeAdjustmentShop.com

8 0 5- 6 46 - 110 9 S p irits • W ine • Cigars • P ack ing & S up p lies • S hip p ing M ailbox R entals • M oney Orders • Cop ies • F ax S ervice Of f ice S up p lies • S hredding • Ojai T - S hirts & Collectibles

Best Convenience S tore

Best Business S ervices

T H A N K Y OU OJ A I VA L L E Y

Best L iq uor S tore

1129 Maricopa Hwy at the “Y” in Ojai

Best Customer S ervice

4 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

2023

Welcome to a new concept in assisted living and memory care Come see for yourself - Call today to schedule a tour 805-798-9305 | theartesianseniorliving.com | 203 E El Roblar Dr, Ojai, CA 93023 RCFE# 567609954

Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 5

6 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 PUBLISHER’S NOTE, BEST OF OJAI 2023

“It’s a Megabowl!”

When I’m starting a new service, product or process in my business the final component I need to launch it is my own belief.

Many Ojai businesses are homegrown “momand-pop” creations. We rely on our dreams, wits, knowledge and skill to thrive in the Ojai community.

The final key ingredient to success is often the selfconfidence to finally transfer our own enthusiasm outward.

Sometimes when I’m needing a boost of resolve to take that leap of faith in my own idea, I say out loud the words of inspiration spoken by Will Ferrell in the 2008 basketball comedy “Semi-Pro,” as his losing team owner character faces a chilly audience of skeptical journalists: “The Flint Michigan Megabowl — it’s a Megabowl, what’s not to understand? This is history in the making. … Discovery of fire, invention of the submarine, and the Flint Michigan Megabowl! …

We’re gonna win the Megabowl. Flint Michigan Megabowl! Flint Michigan MEGABOWL!”

Find the Best of Ojai by category Community................................. 8 Shopping ..................................... 12 Health, Body............................... 14 Home & Garden ......................... 20 Services ....................................... 27+36 Arts & Entertainment................ 42 Food & Drink .............................. 43+49

By sheer dint of will, Will Ferrell brings the community event into being.

The drive and determination of Ojai Valley’s doers and makers, and their ability to believe and adapt creatively are qualities I greatly admire. Congratulations to Ojai Valley's best of 2023 whose ideas, passion and hard work is highlighted on these pages. Thank you for making our community a special place.

Dear readers, please join us in recognizing, patronizing and thanking our local community businesses. You will see many of our very best on these pages. Thank you for your support..

With affection,

La a Rearwin Ward, publish

Laura Rearwin Ward, publisher

Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 7

8 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

COMMUNITYBEST OF OJAI 2023 BEST NONPROFIT/CITIZENS ORGANIZATION GOLD

HELP of Ojai SILVER

Humane Society of Ventura County BRONZE

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL GOLD

Oak Grove School SILVER

Ojai Valley School BRONZE

Monica Ros School

Ojai Valley Land Conservancy

BEST SERVICE ORGANIZATION GOLD

Rotary Club of Ojai SILVER

Ojai Women’s Fund BRONZE

Ojai Valley Lion’s Club

BEST VOLUNTEER GOLD

Kara Hooper SILVER

Ally Mills BRONZE

Martha Ditchfield

BEST PLACE OF WORSHIP GOLD

Nature SILVER

Ojai Presbyterian Church BRONZE

St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church

BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL GOLD

Nordhoff Junior/Senior High SILVER

Topa Topa Elementary BRONZE

Mira Monte Elementary

BEST EDUCATOR GOLD

Jim Bailey SILVER

Bill Wagner BRONZE

Kim Hoy

BEST SUMMER CAMP GOLD

City of Ojai Parks & Recreation SILVER

Ojai Valley School summer programs/ camps BRONZE

Oak Grove School summer camps

BEST OJAI CITY COUNCIL MEMBER GOLD

Suza Francina SILVER

Betsy Stix BRONZE

Rachel Lang

BEST PARK GOLD

Libbey Park SILVER

Soule Park BRONZE

Sarzotti Park

BEST CAMPGROUND GOLD

Lake Casitas SILVER

Rose Valley

BRONZE

Camp Comfort

BEST HIKING TRAIL GOLD

Shelf Road SILVER

Ventura River Preserve BRONZE

Matilija Canyon

Best of COMMUNITY 9

It is a wonderful honor to know I am appreciated by our community members.

Thank you all!

Politics is really the art of governance, a science that synthesizes opposing views into a higher level of understanding.

-- Corinne McLaughlin

2023

SUZA FRANCINA Ojai City Council, Mayor Pro Tem

O-Higher Ed was founded in 2019. Its mission is to help students of the Ojai Valley access higher education, with a focus on those who are first in their family to go to college. Students who are first in their family to go to college may start in the program as early as seventh grade and stay in the program through twelfth grade. ohighered.org

On behalf of the students of O-Higher Ed, we congratulate Ms. Hooper for this well-deserved honor.

KARA HOOPER Best VOLUNTEER

2023

10 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 Thank you, Ojai, for voting us

“Best Day Care” 10 Years in a Row

2023

Join Our Team

Best of COMMUNITY 11

12 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

SHOPPINGBEST OF OJAI 2023 BEST VINTAGE OR RESALE STORE GOLD

2nd HELPings Thrift Store SILVER

Treasures of Ojai BRONZE

The Lennon Closet

BEST ARTS & CRAFTS STORE GOLD

Ben Franklin SILVER

Ojai Creates!

BRONZE

Poppies Art and Gifts

BEST BICYCLE SHOP GOLD

Bicycles of Ojai SILVER

The MOB Shop

BEST BOOKSTORE GOLD

Bart’s Books SILVER

Twice Sold Tales Bookstore BRONZE

Krishnamurti Foundation Bookstore

BEST CAMPING SUPPLIES GOLD

Meiners Oaks Ace Hardware SILVER

True Value Hardware BRONZE

Lake Casitas Park Store

BEST CANNABIS DISPENSARY GOLD

Sespe Creek Collective SILVER

Ojai Greens BRONZE

Ojai Cannabis Co. (formerly Shangri-La Care Center)

BEST CBD RETAILER GOLD

Sespe Creek Collective

BEST FURNITURE STORE SILVER

Ojai Cannabis Company (formerly Shangri-la Care Center) BRONZE

Ojai + Fox

BEST CLOTHING STORE GOLD

Rains Department Store SILVER

Camouflage BRONZE

Julia Rose & Co.

BEST CONVENIENCE STORE GOLD

Attitude Adjustment Shoppe SILVER

Joe’s Quick Stop BRONZE

Ojai Valley Ranch Market

BEST FLORIST GOLD

Ojai Blooms SILVER

Angela’s Flowers BRONZE

Blooming Ruby’s

GOLD

Down Home Furnishings SILVER

Treasures of Ojai BRONZE

Wachter Hay & Grain

BEST GIFT SHOP GOLD

Bungalow by FIG SILVER

Rains Department Store BRONZE

Serendipity Toys

BEST HARDWARE STORE GOLD

Meiners Oaks Ace Hardware SILVER

True Value Hardware BRONZE

Ojai Lumber Co.

BEST HOME DECOR STORE GOLD

FiG Curated Living SILVER

Rains Department Store

BRONZE

Down Home Furnishings

BEST JEWELRY RETAILER GOLD

Jes MaHarry SILVER

Susan Cummings BRONZE

Poppies Art and Gifts

BEST PET FOOD/SUPPLY STORE GOLD

Wachter Hay & Grain SILVER

Pets & More BRONZE

Ojai Valley Feed

CRYSTAL HEALING SHOP GOLD

CRYSTAL SHOP SILVER

Nutmeg’s Ojai House BRONZE

Dharma & Dog

Best of SHOPPING 13

14 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

Thank you for voting us best Dispensary & CBD Retailer Cheers to the 6th year in a row!

Lounge coming soon...

Our Grass is Greener

Bringing sungrown cannabis to the people Visit us in-store or order online 408 Bryant Cir. Unit C, Ojai CA Sespe.org | (805) 738-7490

C10-0000028-LIC

Best of SHOPPING 15

16 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

HEALTH&BODY BEST OF OJAI 2023 BEST ACUPUNCTURIST GOLD

Laurie Edgcomb SILVER

Craig Rigsby BRONZE

Nathan Kaehler BRONZE

Alan Chang

BEST LOCAL SPORTS COACH GOLD

Trevor Weedon

BEST MASSAGE GOLD

Ojai Valley Inn and Spa SILVER

Bamboo Creek Spa BRONZE

AA Relaxing Station

BEST FACIAL GOLD

Ojai Valley Inn and Spa SILVER

Body Essentials of Ojai

SILVER

BRONZE

Wenke Seider

Ojai + Fox Spa

BRONZE

Cody Roddick

BEST HAIRSTYLIST

BRONZE

Kelli Loughman

BRONZE

GOLD

Dillon Lowen

Jen Keeler

BEST DAY SPA

SILVER

GOLD

BEST LOCAL SPORTS TEAM GOLD

Nordhoff Rangers Football SILVER

AYSO BRONZE

Ojai Valley Little League

BEST YOGA INSTRUCTOR

Denise Heller BRONZE

SILVER

Nicole York

Ojai + Fox Spa

BEST BARBER GOLD

Brenton Butler SILVER

Tanner Robertson

GOLD

BRONZE

Francesca Gold

Buddy Wilds

SILVER

Ingrid Boulting

BEST BEAUTY SALON

BRONZE

GOLD

Suza Francina

Bohème Ojai

BEST MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO GOLD

Ojai Valley Taekwondo Academy SILVER

Ojai Valley Martial Arts BRONZE

Victory Pacific Aikido

BEST FITNESS FACILITY GOLD

Ojai Valley Athletic Club SILVER

Bryant Street Gym BRONZE

Balance Health Center

The Day Spa of Ojai

SILVER

Rise Ojai BRONZE

Amber Nicole Salon

BEST MANICURE/PEDICURE GOLD

Kristy’s Nails SILVER

Ojai Valley Inn and Spa BRONZE

Glo West

BEST ESTHETICIAN GOLD

Summer McComas SILVER

Daron Hope

BRONZE

Bamboo Creek Spa

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST GOLD

Swanner Physical Therapy SILVER

Balance Health Center BRONZE

Anna Kotula

BEST OPTOMETRIST GOLD

Bruce Brockman SILVER

Robert J. Graham BRONZE

Bridget Tsao

BEST PHYSICIAN GOLD

Dr. Jim Halverson SILVER

Dr. Maria Halvorson BRONZE

Dr. Helen Petroff

BEST HOLISTIC PRACTITIONER GOLD

Richard Hiltner MD SILVER

Julie Tumamait-Stenslie BRONZE

Laurie Edgcomb, LAC

BEST CHIROPRACTOR GOLD

Boshoff Novak Chiropractic SILVER

Evergreen Chiropractic & Wellness BRONZE

Deborah Murphy

BEST DENTIST GOLD

David L. Garber SILVER

Jan Komura BRONZE

Drew Eggebraten

BEST PHARMACY GOLD

Medical Arts Pharmacy SILVER

The Medicine Shoppe BRONZE

Ojai Village Pharmacy

Best of HEALTH&BODY 17 We take our role in your health very seriously.

We are committed to providing you with exceptional service.

We are honored to be recognized.

We will work hard every day to earn your business!

DRIVE-THRU COMPOUNDING PET COMPOUNDING PRESCRIPTION REFILLS

2023

BEST PHARMACY

1320 MARICOPA HWY., OJAI | 805-646-7211 | M-F 9:30-6 | SAT 10-2 | SUN closed

Thank you for your loyal support!

Topa Topa Optometry Inc.

Voted Best in the Ojai Valley 2023 for the 10th straight year!

2023

• Custom prescription eyewear for computer fatigue, blue light blockers, sports, high fashion designer sunglasses.

• LaFont, TomFord, Persol, Oliver Peoples, Silhouette and many more • Non- prescription sunglasses including Rayban, Maui Jim and Oakley are also available.

• The latest advancements in dry eye and red eye treatments.

• Nutritional counseling to enhance and protect eye health.

• In continued compliance with COVID protocols; your health is our top priority.

Front row; Sarah, Liz , Suzi. Second row; Dr. Brockman, Dr. Tsao, Heidi, Kim, Maritsa, and Leah

1211MaricopaHighway,Suite101(betweenMechanics&ChaseBanks 805.646.5109

www.topaeye.com

Looking for new career? Join our enthusiastic, caring team! Please contact eyeliztopa@gmail.com

18 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

Thank you Ojai!

Premier Horseback Riding

ojai valley trail riding company Explore California’s Shangri-La with a majestic horseback tour of one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

We have rides suited for a beginner or an advanced rider.

Just 3.5 miles from downtown Ojai, we are open 7 days a week.

Call for reservations.

2023

805-890-9340

ojaivalleytrailridingcompany.com

“The root of joy is gratefulness”, Many thanks to our Ojai Friends!

2023 Best Day Spa

Spa Memberships Radiant Facials Therapeutic Massage Body Treatments Foot & Hand Services Pre-wedding Day Escapes Far-infared Sauna Spa Day Packages

805.640.1100 • 209 N. Montgomery Street • thedayspa.com

Best of HEALTH&BODY 19

2023 Winner for 11 consecutive years

“Thanks to our clients and dear friends for their support in this challenging year, it’s because of you all, that we are still in business. Again, THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH! -Mike, Cindy, Ken, Linh & Gabbi

voted best salon & stylist in Ojai

805.798.9220 312 N. Signal Street boheme.ojai.com

20 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

HOME&GARDENBEST OF OJAI 2023 BEST ARCHITECT GOLD

Whitman Architectural Design Inc. SILVER

Two Trees Architects BRONZE

Hartmann Architecture Studio

BEST HEATING & A/C COMPANY GOLD

Fairweather Heating & Air Conditioning SILVER

West Coast Air Conditioning BRONZE

Pacific Aire

BEST TREE SERVICE GOLD

Call Oscar Tree Service SILVER

Mark Crane's Tree Inc. BRONZE

Sky High Tree Care

BEST SOLAR PROVIDER GOLD

Sespe Power Solutions SILVER

California Solar Electric BRONZE

Sun Energy Consultants

BEST POOL MAINTENANCE SERVICE GOLD

Ojai Pool Store SILVER

Dolphin Pools BRONZE

Sean’s Pool Care

BEST PAINTING COMPANY GOLD

Ojai Custom Paint (aka Titus Custom Painting) SILVER

McKay’s Painting BRONZE

Phil’s Custom Painting

BEST ROOFER GOLD

Ventura Roofing Co. SILVER

Aztec Roofing Co. BRONZE

BEST WINDOW & GLASS COMPANY

BEST ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

GOLD

GOLD

Arcade Glass

Ojai Electric

SILVER

SILVER

Ojai Door & Window BRONZE

Swift Electric BRONZE

RMC Construction & Roofing

Ojai Valley Glass

Sespe Power Solutions

BEST PLUMBING/ROOTER COMPANY

BEST GENERAL CONTRACTOR

BEST GARDEN CENTER

GOLD

Silver Sewer & Drain Plumbing SILVER

Franks Rooter & Pumping BRONZE

GOLD

Chad Carper Construction SILVER

Small Town Builder BRONZE

GOLD

Flora Gardens SILVER

Meiners Oaks Nursery BRONZE

Max Reed

Tenpenny Construction

Green’s Nursery

BEST PEST CONTROL COMPANY

BEST FENCE INSTALLER

BEST HOME BUILDING SUPPLY

GOLD

Ojai Termite & Pest Control SILVER

Everready Termite and Pest Control

BEST LANDSCAPE COMPANY GOLD

Green Goddess Gardens SILVER

Daley Landscaping, Inc. BRONZE

Haney Landscaping, Inc.

GOLD

Bob's Fence Co. SILVER

Watkins Fence Co. BRONZE

Small Town Builder

GOLD

Ojai Lumber Co. SILVER

Meiners Oaks Ace Hardware BRONZE

Ojai True Value Hardware

Best of HOME&GARDEN 21

2023 The Ojai Playhouse

VENTURA ROOFING COMPANY INC. Voted Ojai’s Best Roofer 13 years in a row!

(805)646-ROOF • Request a Bid at venturarfg@gmail.com • License#440157 www.venturaroofingco.com

Check out our

Beatrice Wood Center For the Arts

Channel Ventura Roofing Company

Topa Mountain Winery

22 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

30

Best of HOME&GARDEN 23

24 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

Thank You for voting us Best of Ojai!

Your Local HVAC Contractor Proudly Serving The Ojai Valley

2023

FAIRWEATHER HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC.

BEST HEATING & A/C COMPANY

• We Service & Maintain All Makes & Models • High Efficiency Air Conditioning Units • IWave-R Air Purifiers & UV Lights to Enhance Air Quality • Preventative Maintenance Programs & Filter Changes • Carrier, Rheem, & Daikin HVAC Dealer • Smart Thermostats Honesty & Quality are Always The Best Policy

805-658-8385 | 11556 N. Ventura Ave., Ojai CA | www.fairweatherac.com

Family Owned & Operated Senior & Military Discounts 24 Hour Emergency Service HVAC C-20 License #1068598

Best of HOME&GARDEN 25

Call Oscar Tree Service Whatever Your Tree Requires 312 W. El Roblar Dr., Ojai, CA 93023

805-646-7934

Certified Arborist:WE-5064A· • State License: #740789

24 Hour Emergency Service Available • Senior Discounts Available COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

Voted Best Tree Service in the Valley

Ten Years in a Row!

“I work from home. A lot. It’s mostly great, but juggling home life with work was getting stressful. I could not be happier with my stand-alone office shed. The quality of construction and the end result far exceeded my expectations.

I now have separation between work and home, and my own space. It’s honestly a nightand-day difference.”

-Dave Morelli, Ojai.

OJAI’S SMALL, LOCAL, FAMILY-OWNED BACKYARD SHED BUSINESS SINCE 2010.

“Every square inch of real estate is valuable in California. A Genuine Shed is an amazing way to add value to your property and get bonus square footage without adding on to your home. 110% recommend this fantastic company! Great people to work with, reliable, quality construction.”

Carmen Galzerano, Realtor, Glick Real Estate Associates, Santa Barbara

8 0 5 . 3 0 8 . 3 1 9 5 | W W W.G E N U I N E S H E D S .CO M

2023

Dear Customers, it has been a pleasure taking care of your tree service needs, and we are truly grateful to all of you for choosing us as your tree service company. The growth we’ve experienced over the years is because of customers like you, who support our business. We appreciate your trust, and we’ll do our best to continue meeting your tree service expectations. Your continued patronage and feedback are a vital part of our growth. And for that, we are very thankful.

Again, thank you so much for choosing Call Oscar Tree Service who will always try to complete the service to your satisfaction. We look forward to serving you for many years to come. Sincerely, •Call Oscar Tree Service •Oscar D. Acosta

Runner-up Best Garden Center in the Ojai Valley

Meiners Oaks Nursery 312 W. El Roblar Dr. • (805) 646-2546

26 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

T H A N K Y OU

OJ A I VA L L E Y !

F OR VOT I N G U S BE S T OF 2 0 2 3

G eneral P est and T ermite Control Organic P est Control A vailable ( G o G reen)

11584 North V entura Ave. Ojai, CA 9 3023

S tate L icense # 0 P R 49 3 S erving Ventura, S anta Barbara and L .A . Counties

Best of SERVICES 27

SERVICESBEST OF OJAI 2023 BEST AUTO REPAIR GOLD

Ojai Valley Auto (Imports) SILVER

Fred's Tire Man BRONZE

Rock Long’s Automotive

BEST OIL CHANGE GOLD

SILVER

BRONZE

BRONZE

Ojai Rancho Inn

Olga Jones - Ameriprise Financial

Topa’s Custom Uphotery

BEST INN / BED & BREAKFAST

BEST BANK TELLER AND INSTITUTION

BEST PET GROOMER

GOLD

Lavender Inn SILVER

Ojai Retreat & Inn BRONZE

GOLD

Mary Floyd, Ojai Community Bank SILVER

Rhonda Dolittle BRONZE

GOLD

Ultimutt Pet Spa in Ojai SILVER

Four Paws Pet Grooming BRONZE

Caravan Outpost

Jennifer Flores, Bank of America

Suzanne’s Mobile Pet Grooming

BEST INSURANCE PROVIDER

BEST ACCOUNTING/ TAX SERVICE

BEST PET SITTER/BOARDING

Fred’s Tireman SILVER

Ojai Valley Auto (Imports) BRONZE

Adamson's Tire & Service

BEST BUSINESS SERVICES GOLD

Ojai Business Center SILVER

Attitude Adjustment Shoppe

BEST COMPUTER REPAIR GOLD

bITvision Technology SILVER

Lahaina Computer Co. BRONZE

MacComputerGuy

BEST GRAPHIC DESIGNER GOLD

Alex Mooney SILVER

Amy Schneider BRONZE

GOLD

Doug Crawford Insurance SILVER

Farmers Insurance Ojai Offices BRONZE

GOLD

Marie Estes-Pratt Bookkeeping SILVER

Jacobs & Jacobs BRONZE

GOLD

Ojai Dog Friendly SILVER

The Peaceful Pup BRONZE

Evan Austin

State Farm - Bob Daddi

Ojai Tax Services (Jeetendra Jain)

Hanna Paulsen

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

BEST LAW FIRM

BEST ONE-OF-A-KIND BUSINESS

BEST DRY CLEANERS OR LAUNDROMAT

GOLD

Meiners Oaks Ace Hardware SILVER

Bonnie Lu’s BRONZE

GOLD

Waite Jacobs & Atkinson SILVER

Ryan Blatz Law BRONZE

GOLD

Ventura Brush Goats SILVER

Pixies General Store BRONZE

Attitude Adjustment

James Casey Law

Poppies Art and Gifts

BEST HOTEL

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

BEST UPHOLSTERER

GOLD

Ojai Valley Inn BRONZE

Blue Iguana Inn

GOLD

Jessie Hawkins - Morgan Stanley SILVER

Integrity Wealth Advisors

GOLD

Ojai Valley Cleaners SILVER

Royal Cleaners BRONZE

Route 33 Laundry

GOLD

Ojai Upholstery SILVER

Plush Surroundings

continued on page 36

28 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

We feel so honored and blessed to be able to serve our precious community. We love you Ojai and can’t thank you enough!

2023 Best Property Management

2023 Best Real Estate Office

We tailor our services to fit your needs.

We can transform your property to be SALE OR RENT ready with local artisans and contractors.

Sales, rentals and management Ojaipropertygroup@gmail.com 805-202-4149

ojaipg.com

DRE# 02099617

Best of SERVICES 29

30 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

THANK YOU OJAI!

for voting us 2023 Best Glass Company

THERESE HARTMANN CO NC I E RG E MO RTGAGE CO N SU LTAN T FO R 25 Y EAR S

C2 FINANCIAL CORPORATION IS THE #1 BROKER IN THE NATION

C2 FINANCIAL

CORPORATION

805.798.2158

We are proud to be in business for over 40 years!

805-646-1093|arcadeglass@att.net Lic# CSLB# 1003846

HEARTLOANS@SBCGLOBAL.NET 236 W. OJAI AVE., SUITE 105, OJAI CA 93023

HEARTLOANS .COM

2023

MORTGAGE EXECUTIVE MAGAZINE

This licensee is performing acts for which a real estate license is required. C2 Financial Corporation is licensed by the California Bureau of Real Estate, Broker # 01821025; NMLS # 135622. Loan approval is not guaranteed and is subject to lender review of information. All loan approvals are conditional and all conditions must be met by borrower. Loan is only approved when lender has issued approval in writing and is subject to the Lender conditions. Specified rates may not be available for all borrowers. Rate subject to change with market conditions. C2 Financial Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Mortgage Broker/Lender. (Add this for website disclaimer: The services referred to herein are not available to persons located outside the state of California.)

Waite, Jacobs & Atkinson

It has been an honor to serve our community since 1975. Thank you for entrusting us with your estate planning and trust administration matters!

603 West Ojai Avenue, Suite D www.wjalaw.com 805.646.7263 Ross E. Atkinson - Attorney Carolyn J. Vondriska - Attorney Megan Davis - Law Office Administrator Mary Clark - Law Office Administrator Denise Heimo - Law Office Administrator Allan Jacobs - deeply missed colleague and friend (1940-2017)

2023

’11 ’12 ’13 ’14 ’15 ’16 ’17 ’18 ’19 ’20 ’21 ’22

Best of SERVICES 31

L I VS OT H E B YS R E A LT YC A .C O M

Gold Winner for 2023 Best Real Estate Office in Ojai

We are absolutely thrilled and humbled to announce that our office has won the gold for Best Real Estate Office in Ojai through the Ojai Valley News Annual Readers Poll.

This recognition would not have been possible without the support and trust of the incredible community of Ojai and everyone who participated in this year’s poll. Your vote is not just a nod to our office, but a testament to the strength and unity of the Ojai community that we are so proud to be a part of.

At LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, we are committed to delivering a luxury experience throughout your real estate transactions. Being acknowledged by our local community encourages us to continue striving for excellence in serving you better each day.

Thank you, Ojai, for making us your choice. It is an honor to serve you, and we promise to continue to uphold the high standards you’ve come to expect from us.

Here’s to many more years of working together to make Ojai an even better place to live!

With Gratitude, The Team at LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, Ventura County

OJAI

LIV Sotheby’s International Realty 727 W. Ojai Avenue, Ojai, California 805.646.7288 © 2023 LIV Sotheby’s International Realty. All rights reserved. All data, including all measurements and calculations are obtained from various sources and has not and will not be verified by Broker. All information shall be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. LIV Sotheby’s International Realty is independently owned and operated and supports the principals of the Fair Housing Act.

32 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

TONYA PERALTA

REPORTING FOR THE PEOPLE SINCE 1891 O J A I VA L L E Y N E W S .C O M | @ O J A I VA L L E Y N E W S | @ O V N

LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS: because you live here.

VENTURACOUNTYSUN.COM | @VENTURACOUNTYSUN | @VCSUN_ NEWS

Best of SERVICES 33

A MOM ENT OF GRAT I T UDE .

We are again overjoyed to be named among the “Best of Ojai” 2023 in nine categories, including Gold for Best Hotel. We wouldn’t be here without our wonderful associates, neighbors, guests and readers like you. All who have helped make our serene mountain valley inn the Ojai icon it is today.

We welcome you to share magical moments with loved ones, and discover new culinary adventures at our beloved 220-acre retreat. Delight your palate with epicurean artistry at The Farmhouse, rejuvenate at Spa Ojai, and find sanctuary in our private villas and fully refreshed guestrooms.

Make a reservation today to escape in a moment with Ojai’s rare spirit, as we share this incredible honor with you.

(844) 993-9402 OjaiValleyInn.com

34 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

Bryant Circle Mini Storage • Free move-in truck • Moving and packing supplies • Security system with TV surveillance • On-site resident managers • Competitive rates • Move-in specials

2023

Call us today for our BLUE DOOR SPECIAL 412 Bryant Circle, Ojai 805.646.2354

Best of SERVICES 35

REPORTING FOR THE PEOPLE SINCE 1891 O J A I VA L L E Y N E W S .C O M | @ O J A I VA L L E Y N E W S | @ O V N

LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS: because you live here.

VENTURACOUNTYSUN.COM | @VENTURACOUNTYSUN | @VCSUN_NEWS

2023

Thanks Ojai for voting us "Best Veterinary Clinic" 108 Bryant Street | 805.646.5539

36 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

SERVICESBEST OF OJAI 2023 continued from page 27

SILVER

BRONZE

Tonya Peralta

Carrie Sanders

BRONZE

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

BEST MORTGAGE PROVIDER

Donna Sallen

GOLD

GOLD

BEST REAL ESTATE OFFICE

Whitney Hartmann

Heritage Financial SILVER

GOLD

SILVER

C2 Financial (Therese Hartmann)

LIV Sotheby's Ojai

Stephen Adams

BRONZE

SILVER

BRONZE

Teena Broumand

Keller Williams

Brandi Crockett

BEST DAY CARE PROVIDER GOLD

BRONZE

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

GOLD

BRONZE

Noah’s Ark Preschool

The Gables of Ojai

Ojai Property Group

SILVER

Montessori School of Ojai

BEST PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

A Place To Grow Preschool

BEST STORAGE FACILITY

Joe Kapp Real Estate

GOLD

GOLD

SILVER

Heather Erickson

Oak View Self Storage BRONZE

Condor Self Storage of Ojai

BEST TRANSPORTATION SERVICE GOLD

Ojai Trolley SILVER

Dutch’s Downtown Shuttle - Kool Buzz BRONZE

Help of Ojai

BEST VETERINARY CLINIC GOLD

Matilija Veterinary Hospital SILVER

Ojai Village Veterinary BRONZE

Topa Mountain Animal Hospital

Bryant Circle Mini Storage

Holly Humphrey Property Management

DS

The Artesian of Ojai The Manor of Ojai Residential Care

Ojai Property Group SILVER

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

SILVER BRONZE

GOLD

BRONZE

BEST RETIREMENT LIVING

SILVER

Thank you for voting me among the best realtors in the Ojai Valley!

DONNA SALLEN

2187 McNELL ROAD

12339 LINDA FLORA DRIVE

3BD, 2BA + POOLHOUSE | ICONIC SPANISH ESTATE | PART OF THE WHALE ROCK RANCH

4BD, 3.5BA | GATED RANCHO MATILIJA ESTATE W/ GUESTHOUSE & ART STUDIO

Donna Sallen, Realtor® RE / MAX Gold Coast Realtors DRE 01488460

“Stay Strong. Stay Healthy. Stay Connected”.

2023 805-798-0516 | donna4remax@aol.com | www.donnasallen.com

Best of SERVICES 37

We’ll get you there!

From and to: For Just $1.50!

Ojai, Meiners Oaks and Mira Monte ADA, Medicare Card Holders, and Seniors 65-74 are 1/2 price. Seniors 75 and over, children under 45” tall and all students are FREE riders on the Trolley

The Ojai Trolley Service Continues to Run Serving the Needs of the Ojai Valley

The Ojai Trolley Service, established in 1989, is owned and operated by the City of Ojai. The Trolley provides daily fixed-route transportation to approximately 9,000 riders per month throughout Ojai, Meiners Oaks and Mira Monte.

The Trolley is a well-known feature in the Ojai Valley, and in addition to the daily fixed-route services, participates in many local community events, fund raising activities, community service, and educational functions.

2023

408 South Signal Street, Ojai, CA 93024 Phone (805) 272 3883 • E-mail: transit@ojai.ca.gov • www.ojaitrolley.com

38 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

Best of SERVICES 39

Follow us @venturabrushgoats

-vegetation management -wildfire mitigation -ecological improvement

Thank you for voting us Best One-of-a-kind business VENTURA

2023

BRUSHGOATS 805-358-1841 | www.venturabrushgoats.com

40 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

MO ON EY C R E AT I V E

2023

graphic design. web design. branding. social media. creative. mooneycreative.net Thank you, Ojai, for voting us

BEST

GRAPHIC

DESIGNER

for 7 YEARS!

A women-owned collaborative of independent creatives.

Thank You Ojai! for your continued support

Marie Estes Pratt Bookkeeping & Tax

2023

201 Church Rd, Ojai, CA 93023 Phone: 805-646-5645 Fax: 805-646-5615 lisa@ojaibkpr.com

Best of SERVICES 41

Celebrating 45 years serving the Ojai community.

Voted Best 14 years in a row

42 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENTBEST OF OJAI 2023

BEST LOCAL COMMUNITY ACTOR (MALE/FEMALE) GOLD

Denise Heller SILVER

Jessi May Stevenson BRONZE

Anna Kotula

BEST VISUAL ARTIST GOLD

Carmen Abelleira SILVER

Colleen McDougal BRONZE

Gayel Childress

BEST ART GALLERY GOLD

Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts SILVER

TH OV fo AN K r A AR VO YO BE TS TIN U ST G G of AL 20 O L 23 JA ERY I

OVA Arts

Patty McFall | Jewelry

Ted Gall | Scupture

BRONZE

canvas and paper

BEST ANNUAL EVENT GOLD

4th of July Parade SILVER

Ojai Day BRONZE

Ojai Music Festival

BEST HORSEBACK RIDING GOLD

SILVER

Ojai Valley Trail Riding Company SILVER

BEST LOCAL MUSICAL GROUP

Bodee’s Rancho Grande

BEST LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE

Joan Sharron | Mixed Media

Smitty West & Julia Zonic

Ojai Underground Arts Exchange

BRONZE

Libbey Bowl

Ojai Deer Lodge BRONZE

Ojai on Horseback

GOLD

BRONZE

BEST LOCAL MUSICIAN GOLD

Alan Thornhill

GOLD

SILVER

Nordhoff band and choir

Jimmy Calire

SILVER

BRONZE

Rose Valley Thorns

Julie Wellings | Ceramics

Tom Lennon

Judy Suzuki | Drawing

a GALLERY of ARTISTS REPRESENTING

the SOUL of the LOCAL ART COMMUNITY

Kristy Vantrease | Oil

David Blackburn | Wood

Sherri Sanchez | Mosaics

Bob McFall | Photography

Elaine Unzicker | Chainmail

Tom Hoerher | Watercolor

Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 43

BEST OF OJAI 2023 FOOD&DRINK BEST BAKERY GOLD

Ojai Rotie SILVER

Kate’s Bread BRONZE

Farmer and the Cook

BEST MARKET/GROCERY STORE GOLD

Westridge Market - Midtown SILVER

Westridge Market BRONZE

Rainbow Bridge

BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE GOLD

Rainbow Bridge SILVER

Farmer & the Cook BRONZE

Westridge Market - Midtown

BEST LIQUOR STORE GOLD

Ojai Beverage Company SILVER

Attitude Adjustment Shoppe BRONZE

Pat’s Liquor

BEST BBQ GOLD

Q-Time BBQ (Ojai Valley Ranch Market) SILVER

Ojai Deer Lodge BRONZE

Ojai Beverage Company

BEST BREAKFAST GOLD

Bonnie Lu's Cafe SILVER

Zaidee's Bar & Grill BRONZE

Home Kitchen of Ojai

BEST BRUNCH GOLD

Ojai Valley Inn

SILVER

Zaidee's Bar & Grill BRONZE

Bonnie Lu’s

BEST BURGER GOLD

Ojai Beverage Company SILVER

Yume Japanese Burger Café BRONZE

Jim & Rob's Fresh Grill

BEST BURRITO GOLD

Ojai Tortilla House SILVER

Jim & Rob's Fresh Grill BRONZE

Casa De Lago

BEST TACO GOLD

Ojai Tortilla House SILVER

Jim and Robs Fresh Grill BRONZE

Casa De Lago

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT GOLD

Agave Maria’s SILVER

Casa De Lago BRONZE

Jim & Rob’s Fresh Grill

BEST CASUAL DINING GOLD

Papa Lennon’s SILVER

Boccali's Pizza BRONZE

Ojai Rotie

BEST ASIAN FOOD GOLD

Exotic Thai Restaurant SILVER

Izakaya Full Moon BRONZE

Sakura Ojai

BEST SUSHI GOLD

Sakura Ojai SILVER

Hakane Sushi BRONZE

Izakaya Full Moon

BEST ETHNIC RESTAURANT GOLD

Exotic Thai SILVER

Izakaya Full Moon BRONZE

Mandala

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT GOLD

Boccali's Pizza SILVER

Osteria Monte Grappa BRONZE

Nocciola

BEST PIZZA GOLD

Ojai Pizza Company SILVER

Papa Lennon's Pizzeria BRONZE

Air Pizza

BEST VEGETARIAN MENU GOLD

Hip Vegan SILVER

Farmer and the Cook BRONZE

BoKU Cafe

BEST FARM TO TABLE RESTAURANT GOLD

Farmer and the Cook SILVER

Ojai Rotîe BRONZE

Rory’s Place

BEST COFFEE SHOP GOLD

SILVER

Ojai Coffee Roasting Company BRONZE

Java & Joe

BEST ROMANTIC RESTAURANT GOLD

The Ranch House SILVER

Nocciola BRONZE

The Dutchess

BEST DELI GOLD

Westridge Market - Midtown SILVER

Westridge Market BRONZE

MJ’s Deli

BEST FROZEN DESSERT GOLD

Ojai Ice Cream SILVER

Sanders & Sons Gelato BRONZE

Ojai Bliss & More

BEST DONUTS GOLD

Donut Hole SILVER

DONUT (Oak View)

BEST FINE DINING EXPERIENCE GOLD

Nocciola SILVER

Olivella - Ojai Valley Inn BRONZE

The Ranch House

BEST HAPPY HOUR GOLD

Ojai Beverage Company SILVER

Lisa’s Cantina BRONZE

Zaidee's Bar & Grill

Coffee Connection continued on page 49

44 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT BEST MARGARITA

Best of FOOD&DRINK 45

46 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

Best of FOOD&DRINK 47

Westridge Midtown Market

131 W. Ojai Ave • Open Daily 7am - 9pm • Phone 805-646-4082

2023

Westridge Market

BEST MARKET/ GROCERY STORE 802 E. Ojai Ave • Open Daily 8am - 8pm • Phone 805-646-2762

westridgemarket.com

2023

2023

BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE

GOLD BEST DELI

2023

2023

BEST GROCERY STORE

BEST DELI

Westridge Midtown Market

131 W. Ojai Ave • Open Daily 7am - 9pm • Phone 805-646-4082

Westridge Midtown Market 2023

2023

BEST MARKET/ GROCERY STORE 131 W. Ojai Ave • Open Daily 7am - 9pm • Phone 805-646-4082

westridgemarket.com

2023

BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE

GOLD BEST DELI

2023

2023

2023

BEST MARKET/ GROCERY STORE

BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE

GOLD BEST DELI

48 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

2023

Best Burrito 2023 104 N. SIGNAL STREET, OJAI (805) 797- 8675 Tuesday - Sunday 11-2 Closed Monday

Best Taco

Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 49

BEST OF OJAI 2023 FOOD&DRINK continued from page 43

BRONZE

Zaidee's Bar & Grill

BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

BEST VINEYARD

GOLD

GOLD

Boccali's Pizza

Old Creek Ranch & Winery

SILVER

SILVER

Ojai Pizza Co.

Ojai Vineyard

BRONZE

BRONZE

Papa Lennon’s

Majestic Oak Vineyard

BEST LUNCH PLACE GOLD

Zaidee's Bar & Grill

BEST WINE TASTING BEST NEW RESTAURANT (OPENED WITHIN THE LAST 12 months)

BEST SEAFOOD

Majestic Oak Vineyard

GOLD

GOLD

Sea Fresh Ojai

Tres Hermanas

SILVER

BRONZE

SILVER

Ideal Seafood

The Nest

MJ’s Deli

SILVER

Jim & Rob's Fresh Grill

BEST MARGARITA GOLD

Agave Maria’s SILVER

Lisa’s Cantina BRONZE

Tres Hermanas

BEST COCKTAIL GOLD

Jimmy’s Pub - Ojai Valley Inn

BRONZE

Rory's Place

BEST FARMERS’ MARKET VENDOR GOLD

Friend's Ranches Inc SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

Ojai Beverage Co. BRONZE

Ojai Valley Brewery

BEST PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK GOLD

Jimmy’s Pub - Ojai Valley Inn SILVER

Ojai Beverage Company BRONZE

Tipple & Ramble BRONZE

Sam's Place

Sakura Ojai

BEST TASTING ROOM (OTHER THAN WINE)

BEST SPORTS BAR

GOLD

GOLD

Ojai Olive Oil

Lisa’s Cantina

SILVER

Revel Kombucha Bar

SILVER

Jimmy’s Pub - Ojai Valley Inn

BRONZE

Heavenly Honey

BEST OUTDOOR DINING Boccali's Pizza

Topa Topa Brewing Co.

Old Creek Ranch & Winery

BRONZE

Ojai Olive Oil

Rory’s Place

GOLD

BRONZE

BRONZE

GOLD

BEST TAP ROOM

SILVER

The Ojai Vineyard

B.D Dautch - Earthtrine Farm

SILVER

The Dutchess

GOLD

Zaidee's Bar & Grill BRONZE

Ojai Rotîe

BEST PRODUCE GOLD

Ojai Community Farmers' Market

Delicious subs, sandwiches, sides and more.

SILVER

Baldwin Road produce stand

• Party platters • Box Lunches • Kid’s Menu • Gluten free and vegetarian options

BRONZE

Farmer and the Cook

BEST SANDWICH GOLD

MJ’s Deli SILVER

Papa Lennon’s Pizzeria BRONZE

Ojai Beverage Company

2023

Family owned and operated 423 E Ojai Ave # 105, Ojai, CA 93023 Open Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 11:00-3:00 Closed Wednesday Open Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 11:00-4:00 Order online mjsdeli.com or by phone 805.272.8687 Follow us @mjsdeli.ojai

50 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

Wine Tasting

OPEN THURSDAY THROUGH MONDAY 11 AM - 5 PM WALK-INS WELCOME

Pet Friendly — Kids Under 2 Yrs & Over 13 Yrs Welcome

2023

Thanks

for voting us Ojai Valley’s Best Vineyard!

10024 Old Creek Rd, Ventura | (805) 649-4132 | www.oldcreekranch.com

2022 2023

Best of FOOD&DRINK 51

52 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

Thank You! Dear Ojai, Thank you for making us #1 BEST COFFEE HOUSE in Ojai.

We are honored to have served our community for 18 years!

We value your friendship, support and patronage.

Cheers to coffee and community!

With Gratitude, The Coffee Connection

Coffee Connection

Your Community Coffee & Espresso Bar Celebrating 18 years of business!

2023

311 East El Roblar Drive Ojai, CA 93023 805.646.7821 | coffeeconnection@gmail.com

Monday thru Saturday 6am -1pm

BEST BREAKFAST

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

BEST BRUNCH

Best of FOOD&DRINK 53

2023

ORDER ONLINE! theonlygoodpizza.com

Voted Best Pizza Best Kid Friendly Restaurant

ONE OF A KIND SPECIALTY PIZZAS. 13 BEERS ON DRAFT!

PIZZA • PASTA • WINGS • SANDWICHES • SALADS AND MORE! • OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK DON’T FORGET ABOUT OUR LUNCH SPECIALS!

DOWNTOWN OJAI - 331 E. OJAI AVE. | OAK VIEW - 820 N. VENTURA AVE

@ojaipiz z acompany

805-646-7878

54 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

SEA FRESH SEAFOOD S eaf ood - S teak - S u sh i

Serving Breakfast Saturday and Sunday 8AM - 11 AM Voted ‘BEST SEAFOOD’ 14 Years in a Row!

2023

533 E. Ojai Ave

• 805-646-7747

THANK YOU OJAI for Voting us The Best 2023

2023

GOLD BEST BURGER GOLD BEST HAPPY HOUR GOLD BEST LIQUOR STORE

SILVER BEST TAP ROOM SILVER BEST PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK

2023

BRONZE BEST BBQ BRONZE BEST SANDWICH We can ship your purchases to all approved states

The Ojai Beverage Company | 655 E. Ojai Ave. Ojai, CA 93023 | 805-646-1700 | www.ojaibevco.com

Best of FOOD&DRINK 55

Thank You, Ojai!

There are so many wonderful schools in Ojai.

We are grateful to be one of them and to be acknowledged by the Ojai community we love so deeply.

— Oak Grove School

JOIN US ON NOVEMBER 4th OPEN HOUSE & ALL-SCHOOL SHOWCASE

SCHOOL-WIDE CAMPUS TOURS • OPEN CLASSROOMS WITH STUDENT EXHIBITS STUDENT PERFORMANCES • COMPLIMENTARY VEGETARIAN LUNCH • MEET OUR FACULTY

RSVP @ OAKGROVESCHOOL.ORG/OPEN

56 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023

Emily Wilson, Broker, President NMLS 233366

Tennay Anderson, Loan Officer NMLS 1513729

Apply A l O Online l TToday! li d !

www.HFLoansCA.com | 403 West Ojai Avenue | DRE 01254167 | NMLS 320838 Equal Housing Opportunity