Cruising and Chewing Through California
Written by Aja Goare
With their tendency to restrict and admonish, New Year’s resolutions are a sore subject for many. Instead of dry January or stair master purgatory, might we recommend a resolution to travel and taste more of what our state’s great communities have to offer. Jump in! We’re cruising – and chewing – through California.
Santa Barbara (95 miles away)
The twin college town of San Luis Obispo, perhaps, Santa Barbara boasts seaside restaurants and views of mountains from winery tasting rooms. Given the youthful energy that comes from the university, the city offers a mix of trendy new foodie experiences and upscale dining, alike. Whether you’re camping along Refugio State Beach or staying in the picturesque Ritz Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, the opportunities for adventure are limitless. Take a hike or embark on a shopping spree; both inspire hunger for a great meal and a cocktail, and you’re in luck because there are plenty of great options. Check out the Salt Cave, take a guided kayak tour, or a private sidecar venture from winery to winery. Don’t miss Santa Barbara Restaurant Week April 26-May 5. The annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival in February is another way to enjoy the city through a different – eh hem – lens.
Preferred dining: Sama Sama Kitchen, Bettina, Secret Bao, Santa Barbara Public Market
Suggested sips: Folded Hills Winery, Foxen Vineyard and Winery, Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company, The Good Lion, O Bar at Ritz Carlton Bacara
Temecula (275 miles away)
A place where olive trees tango with grape vines, Temecula is an Italian microcosm just outside San Diego. The Temecula Valley boasts over 2,500 acres of vines and about 47 wineries, each with its own unique origin story. Between tastings of wine and samples of olive oil, visitors can take to the skies via hot air balloon with California Dreamin’ Balloon Adventures or traverse the winding landscape on a guided horseback tour with California Ranch Company. Influences of Spain and Latin America can be found on the menus of restaurants in Old Town and Europa Village. From the picture window of Ponte Vineyard Inn, visitors can take in the sunset over the vines in 70-degree weather through the spring. Taste dozens of wines during Temecula Wine Growers Association’s Annual Barrel Tasting event Feb. 3-4.
Preferred dining: Bolero, 1909, Green Deli Tortas Factory, Nonno’s Ristorante, The Goat and Vine
Suggested sips: Fazeli Cellars Winery, Somerset Vineyard and Winery, Leoness Cellars, Altisima Winery
Carlsbad (280 miles away)
Many coastal communities are known for water given their proximity to the ocean, but Carlsbad is hailed for its mineral spring water. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the city’s rich environmental history, along with its infamy for bootlegging during Prohibition. Seafood is the crowned jewel on many menus, but those who want to try all of what Carlsbad has to offer – from Mexican to Himalayan to sushi and more – can tag along for the Carlsbad Food Tour. The beach is just a few minutes’ walk from anywhere in town, but those looking for a little more greenery can find solace at the famed golf course, The Crossings at Carlsbad. Don’t miss the Wednesday night farmers’ market on State Street.
Preferred dining: Ciccotti’s, Señor Grubby’s, Gelato Love, 246 Fresco, Himalayan Sherpa Cuisine
Suggested sips: Carlsbad Brewing Company, Pure Project, Karl Straus Brewing Company, The Shore Room
Oakland (225 miles)
Across the bridge from San Francisco, the city of Oakland offers sports, high arts, and historic concert venues. Perhaps the epicenter of this emerging community is Lake Merritt, where people gather to cook BBQ, go for a walk, play African drums, or even take a peaceful nap. Public markets offering fresh-baked goods, juice, and produce from local farms punctuate bustling neighborhoods. Cyclists and joggers may stumble upon Jack London Square. In addition to the famed American novelist, Oakland is known for inventing rocky road ice cream and it also offers one of the nation’s premier soul food scenes. Snag tickets to the city’s annual Eat Real Festival in September.
Preferred dining: Almond and Oak, Bake Sum, Enssaro Ethiopian, The Cook and Her Farmer
Suggested sips: Ordinaire, The Alley Piano Bar, The Punch Down Wine Bar + Bottle Shop
New Cuyama (80 miles)
Small town charm is one of the qualities residents of San Luis Obispo love about their community and that same feel can be found just down Hwy 101 in New Cuyama. This sparsely populated community is characterized by its mountains, robust system of hiking trails, historic artifacts and cave paintings. The rustic style of this small town means menus visitors can enjoy a glass of vino and a pizza adorned with freshly plucked produce under a clear, starry night sky. A gentle ocean breeze dances through the branches of olive trees before running into the mountains, which keep the area cool at night. Sounds of wildlife add a comforting soundtrack to the otherwise hushed ambiance. Come here for tranquility and an opportunity to reconnect with nature.
Preferred dining: The Buck Stop, Cuyama Buckhorn, The Place, Burger Barn and Deli
Suggested sips: Cuyama Beverage Company, Condor’s Hope Ranch, Barnwood Vineyards, Lotta Vineyard
Nevada City (360 miles away)
This gold rush community is replete with history from the days when mining was the main economy and a duel could settle a dispute between neighbors. Located just 60 miles outside Sacramento, Nevada City is a haven for Halloween fans who relish the ghost stories and gleaming foliage that ripple through town in the fall. But visitors won’t be disappointed by an earlier visit, which promises a plethora of modern and stylish eateries on every corner. From farm-sourced cafes to an Arrested Development inspired cocktail menu, there’s a little something for everyone. Enjoy a glass of wine in the real-life speakeasy in the basement of nearby Holbrooke Hotel and soak up titillating stories of rumrunning from days of yore. Check out the festive Mardi Gras Parade and Street Fair on Feb. 10.
Preferred dining: LOLA, Bistro 221, Heartwood, National Exchange Hotel
Suggested sips: Golden Gate Saloon, Miracle Bar (previously Iron Door), Three Forks Bakery and Brewing, Nevada City Winery
Twentynine Palms (345 miles)
In the heart of California’s desert land, this dusty community is a gateway to Joshua Tree National Park. Renowned for its murals and art, hiking trails, and pristine air, Twentynine Palms is also a destination for curing a grumbling stomach. Ahead of a hike through one of over a dozen trails, grab a bite to eat and a craft coffee. Neighboring Palm Springs, known for its annual Coachella Music Festival, offers additional grub and public art installations. Settle in for the night with a glass of wine served on the patio for an unobstructed view of the starry sky.
Preferred dining: Kitchen in the Desert Café, The Cactus, Nydias Mexican Kitchen, Grnd Sqrl
Suggested sips: Joshua Tree Brewing Company, Virginian Cocktails, The Cactus Bar, Boozehounds (Palm Springs)
Visit any of these great spots? Tag us in your foodie photos on social media!
