July/August 2022 | Santa Barbara Life & Style Magazine by Santa Babara Life & Style Magazine

SEAS THE DAY

July/August 2022

FROM THE LAPOINTE PRE-FALL 2022 COLLECTION

CAPTIVATING MODERN LUXURY 1269 Coast Village Road, Montecito CA | 805.563.2425 | @allorabylaura | allorabylaura.com

Montecito associates

IN PURSUIT OF PERFECT SLEEP

www.amaliahomecollection.com

Laykin’s classic bangles designed in 1959 for Doris Day in Academy Award-winning film Pillow Talk with Rock Hudson.

T H E F I N E ST M O N T E C I TO & S A N TA B A R B A R A H O M E S Montecito-Estate.com | 805.886.9378 | Cristal@Montecito-Estate.com | DRE 00968247 Cristal Clarke is the #1 Agent. Locally and Globally.*

607 SAND POINT ROAD | CARPINTERIA Beautiful Sand Point Beach House with Breathtaking Oceanfront, Island, Mountain and Estuary Views 4 Bed + Office, 4 Bath Residence | Approximately 1.2 Acres Offered at $23,000,000

Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. *#1 individual agent based on sales volume & units in the Santa Barbara MLS & worldwide for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices based on production for 2020 and 2021.

12 9 0 C I M A L I N D A L A N E

| MONTECITO

Spanish-Style Residence Re -Designed and Re -Envisioned by Noted Local Architect Don Nulty Ocean and Canyon Views | Approximately 4970 Sq Ft Offered at $7,950,000

80 CHASE DRIVE | MONTECITO Contemporary Mid-Century Residence Re -Envisioned by Shubin + Donaldson with Stunning Views 4 Bed, 4.5 Bath Residence | Approximately 2882 Sq Ft Offered at $4,775,000

PROGRESSIVE SKIN CARE Using advanced technology with the highest cosmeceutical grade ingredients to deliver optimum results.

SKINPROPHECY.COM | 1230 COAST VILLAGE CIRCLE #B, MONTECITO | 805-969-6454

Now Open The Artisan & Co. 609 Paseo Nuevo

EXPLORE THE NEW PASEO NUEVO

and our collection of local, regional and national retailers and restaurants

Open Daily PaseoNuevoShopping.com

@ShopPaseoNuevo

651 Paseo Nuevo, Santa Barbara CA 93101

Bristol farms

YUM

3 85 5 Sta te St. S a n ta Ba rb a ra , CA 931 05

TIMELESS CLASSICS FOR THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

LOS OLIVOS

2920 Grand Ave. 805.697.7377

ORCUTT

3388 Orcutt Rd. 805.922.9195

PISMO BEACH 890 Price St. 805.773.1055

PASO ROBLES 1236 Park St. 805.226.5088

wildflowerwomenboutique.com

SAN LUIS OBISPO 874 Monterey St. 805.543.3200

1106 STATE STREET | ANDERSENSSANTABARBARA.COM | 805-962-5085

Paseo Nuevo

Sun Air

July/august 2022 Editor in Chief & Publisher OTTOCINA RYAN Art Director JOHANNA SMEDS Director of Photography SILAS FALLSTICH Brand Partnerships & Advertising Lead LINDSEY GARRISON Social Media Manager ALEXANDRA LEE Graphic Designer EILEEN BETTINGER Photographers JARED FIX, JACQUELINE PILAR, JON PREMOSCH, KEVIN SAVAGE Writers EILEEN BETTINGER, ANNA CONSTANTINO, SOFIA DEEB, JILL DE JONG, KIM HASHEMI, CLAUDIA LAPIN, ALEXANDRA LEE, ALEXANDRA SHAROVA CELINE WALLACE, DELANEY WILLET Interns CATHERINE ESREY, INGRID SIGFSTEAD

ON THIS COVER

Photographer KEVIN SAVAGE Stylist OTTOCINA RYAN Model MADI EDWARDS with Two Management Hair & Makeup CLAIRE PIAO Location 63' RIVA YACHT, EXOTIC YACHTS LA Zimmermann swimsuit Versace platforms, The Webster Kapri earrings Anne Sisteron rings, necklace & bracelets

Santa Barbara Life & Style Magazine is published by Santa Barbara Life & Style, Inc. 26 West Mission Street #5, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 For distribution, advertising and other inquiries: info@sblifeandstyle.com santabarbaralifeandstyle.com

WINERY & VINEYARDS

WALK THE VINEYARDS FOR A GOOD CAUSE Saturday, July 23, 2022, 9 a.m. Alma Rosa Winery is pleased to announce its third annual fundraising walk to support mental health research and services. The $55 registration proceeds benefit: Mental Wellness Center in Santa Barbara, which provides housing, job training, education and other services to people with a mental health diagnosis. OneMind, which funds research into the causes, treatments and cures for mental health issues.

Alma Rosa Winery is matching donations made through their website to either charity, up to $70,000. Join this walk on a beautiful summer morning from the valley floor through the winery’s hillside vineyards. Enjoy a glass of wine as you take in spectacular views of the acclaimed Sta. Rita Hills winegrowing region and taste wines at the estate’s historic ranch house after the walk (approximately 90-120 minutes and 10,000 steps or 4.3 miles). To register or donate, please visit almarosawinery.com

CONTENTS

JULY/AUGUST 2022

IN EVERY ISSUE

PROFILE

19 | BEHIND THE SCENES

48 | CHRONICLES OF AN AFICIONADA

Candid moments from the making of this issue.

20 | GARDEN PARTY ESSENTIALS

Santa Barbara summers call for garden parties made even more enjoyable with these items.

22 | GET OUTSIDE

Take your summer routine up a notch.

98 | 48 HOURS IN OJAI & SANTA YNEZ A guide to all things Ojai and Santa Ynez.

Rosewood Miramar Beach's first-ever PlaceMaker creates a space for fellow aficionadas.

FASHION 52 | YACHT CLUB

Decked out in bright colors for a day at sea.

66 | OUT WEST

Get on your high horse.

DINING

TRAVEL

26 | SUMMER SOIREE

78 | RITZY

‘Tis the season for outdoor dining.

32 | HEAVENLY PAL ATE

A quick trip to heaven courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Bacara's Angel Oak.

38 | DOUGH DREAMING

Hook & Press redefines the meaning of “donut shop.”

Just give me The Ritz-Carlton.

82 | ROOM WITH A VIEW

From picturesque vistas to mouthwatering Mediterranean food, Mallorca has it all.

86 | CAPRI FUN

Whimsy is everywhere on Capri.

92 | STOP AND SMELL THE ROSÉ

WELLNESS 44 | FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Boost your brain by mindfully examining what you eat.

46 | FIRE IT UP

A look into Ayurvedic digestion improves our entire lifestyle.

47 | SUPPLEMENTS FOR THE SOUL

An organic and Ayurvedic solution to stress, fatigue and anxiety.

16 | JULY/AUGUST 2022

Riding in a Rolls-Royce Ghost to and from Napa’s newest spots.

Luxe clothing for the modern woman

D'offay

Showroom Hours Monday - Thursday 11am -4pm 813 Anacapa St Suite 111 Santa Barbara, CA 93103

Instagram @doffaycollection

Bob Walsmith

SHOP WHERE THE LOCALS SHOP “I have been to most of the other shops in the area, Farmacy is by far the best.”

“The staff is always ready to help you and are super knowledgeable. This place is really trying to set the standard for recreational dispensaries in the area.”

“Budtenders were very knowledgeable, and the selection was top-notch.”

Stop by and browse our fine selection of premium brands today.

(805) 880-1207

@farmacy.ca

128 W Mission St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 BCC License No: C10-0000293-LIC Award-winning 21+ Cannabis Shop & Delivery Service

18 | JULY/AUGUST 2022

SB LIFE & STYLE snapshots

Pardon Our French: Parisian mornings at the Kimpton St Honoré call for balcony breakfasts.

BEHIND THE SCENES

August Attire: Sweet prints and light linens brighten hazy summer days at Dôen’s fresh Montecito storefront.

Daou All Day: Savoring the Daou VIP Lounge experience while enjoying our favorite ‘90s artists at Redondo’s Beachlife Festival.

Quench Your Thirst: No breakfast at El Encanto is complete without a splash of sustainably-sourced Kopu water in your glass.

Follow @sblifeandstyle for daily behind the scenes content, new restaurants, events, getaways, and more...

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SB LIFE & STYLE covet & crave

Garden Party Essentials ENHANCE ANY SUMMER GARDEN PARTY WITH THESE PICKS by CATHERINE ESREY

Greentree Home Josee Pillars These elegant yet simple candles will elevate any tablescape. Bonus: they happen to be sustainable! GREENTREEHOMECANDLE.COM

Bang Olufsen BEOLIT Bluetooth Speaker Make it a party with this portable speaker that certainly doesn’t sacrifice aesthetic for unparalleled sound. BANG-OLUFSEN.COM

Tom Dixon Swirl Multi Candelabra Created from recycled powered marble residue, this candelabra makes a whimsical centerpiece. Each mesmerizing geometric and swirly design is one of a kind.

Tina Frey SCULPT Carafe in Copper While you’ve probably thought through what you’ll serve, have you considered how you’ll serve it? This copper carafe will catch guest’s attention in the best way possible. T F. D E S I G N

TOMDIXON.NET

4 Santa Ynez General Cobalt Wine Glasses Nothing says garden party more than these colored wine glasses which were handblown in Poland. When hit by the Santa Barbara sun, they’re truly a sight to see. S A N TAY N E Z G E N E R A L .C O M

Oliver James Double Lilo Floatie When hosting a party, seating is a crucial element. These luxe floaties provide a comfortable place to have intimate conversations, even in the pool. OLIVERJAMESLILOS.COM

20 | JULY/AUGUST 2022

Wildflower

RELAXATION

IS CALLING

36 STATE STREET, SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA 805.882.0103 · MAJORELLESPA.COM

SB LIFE & STYLE this season Photo by Jon Premosch Styled by Lux Wright Model Gabriella Kuti with Wrenn Management Hair & Makeup by Crystal Trottier Location El Capitan Canyon

GET OUTSIDE by ALEXANDRA LEE by ALEXANDRA LEE

22 | JULY/AUGUST 2022

NATURAL WONDERS

APL TechLoom Defender shoes Bombas socks

HIT THE GREAT OUTDOORS WITH THESE TOP-OF-THE-LINE WILDERNESS RELEASES

REINVENT THE ROAD TRIP

Who said that camping means forgoing the luxuries of heated floors and on-board WiFi? Bowlus certainly did not. Meet the Limited Edition Terra Firma luxury trailer, redefining the standards of “glamping” according to both modern comfort and earth-loving sustainability. Oxnard-based Bowlus guarantees a descent off the grid in the utmost style, with innovative touchscreen controls, water filtration systems, and device-controlled temperature designed to facilitate exploration. The zen bedroom and hotel-style bathroom aboard Terra Firma bring an unprecedented level of comfortability to the great outdoors. Dedicated to elevating the land-travel experience while reducing environmental impact, this trailer's aerodynamic mirrored exterior is designed for compatibility with electric vehicles, and its lithium-powered battery guarantees two weeks of gasolinefree adventuring. While the authenticity of tent-building certainly has its charms, family bonding can occur hassle-free aboard the luxury Terra Firma. bowlus.com

EXPLORE THE ELEMENTS

Any outdoor adventurer’s new best friend comes in the form of a weatherproof high-top sneaker, otherwise known as Athletic Propulsion Labs’ TechLoom Defender. Their most durable ultra-grip, water-repellent silhouette yet comes in a range of fun colors and is engineered to help you conquer loose terrain, snowy trails, and unpredictable weather with ease. Rain happen to interfere with your hiking plans? TechLoom Defender offers a 360-degree waterproof vapor lined interior that promises to keep your socks dry, while the high-top structure and chunky heel provide further stability against the elements–never let a little weather stand in your way again! athleticpropulsionlabs.com

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WELL WISHES FRESHEN UP YOUR WELLNESS ROUTINE

NEW HEIGHTS

As July gives way to warmth and blue sky, we tend to crave the rush of exhilaration— why not test your bravery with an open fly at Santa Barbara Trapeze Co.? Newcomers can take themselves to new heights (literally) by practicing aerial fitness with top-notch coaches, while advanced flyers can improve further with a trapeze master class schedule. SBTC’s story began with the owner’s unwavering passion for flying, and they’ve since transformed the atmosphere of Plaza Vera Cruz into one of community and fun. Whether you’re four or 84, instructors will teach you to master wild flips and tricks that appear expert-level while encouraging you to build your bravery. Bonus, trapezing doubles as a great workout! The art of aerial fitness offers safe, friendly fun for all ages— and, as personally guaranteed by our team, it’s 100% exhilarating. sbtrapeze.com

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ZEN ZONE

During the summer months, there’s no better treat than some well-deserved R&R. Leave it to Hotel Californian’s recently debuted Majorelle Spa Membership, loaded with complimentary perks for maximizing your relaxation. Enjoy two complimentary full-hour custom spa treatments per month, as well as 20% off additional treatments and retail items. The benefits don’t end at the spa—you’ll also receive access to Hotel Californian’s fitness center and rooftop pool, along with 10 guest passes per month. Your body and soul will thank you for indulging in this all-around wellness package. hotelcalifornian.com

HOSTESS OF THE MOSTEST ENTERTAIN WITH EASE THIS SUMMER

RAISE A GLASS

Consider replacing your ceremonious dinner party champagne toast and captivate guests with a refreshing splash of 2021 DAOU Rosé. Ripe from California’s renowned Paso Robles region, this Grenache Rosé is crisp and refreshing with a fruit-forward palate of peach, honeydew, and mango, aromatic notes of hibiscus and peach simultaneously enrich the senses. Smaller hints of rose petal and honeysuckle accompany a lasting finish of strawberry and cherry, perfect for a balmy evening garden party. Thanks to fall 2021’s cooling trend, smaller grapes and extended hang time infuse wine with vivid flavor and luxe smoothness. DAOU Rosé may just be a new favorite, and promises to remain in your rotation long past summer’s end. daouvineyards.com

GRAZING PLACE

Hosting prayers answered! For breathtaking spreads and charcuterie cones guaranteed to wow guests, Slate Catering is our go-to. Cornucopia-style grazing tables designed for 25+ overflow with a gorgeous selection of cheeses, local breads, fruits, and nuts. For perfectly sized individual (and Covidconscious) bites, opt for charcuterie cones stacked high with salami, dried fruit, pistachios, and breadsticks—bonus: they resemble edible bouquets. “We are all about real, sustainable ingredients and having fun arranging them in bountiful and aesthetic ways that will impress guests,” says owner Allie Chandler. “Garnishes are our love language.” Better yet, make your meal the main event—Slate offers charcuterie-styling workshops and craft cocktail classes to brush up on your hosting technique. Now go on, grab a wheel of brie and start styling! slatecatering.com

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SB LIFE & STYLE dining

summer AL FRESCO LUNCHEON INSPIRATION FROM EXPERT HOSTESS JEN HUANG BOGAN

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soirée by

ANNA CONSTANTINO | Photographs by JEN HUANG BOGAN

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28 | JULY/AUGUST 2022

ummer on the California coast bodes Ikebana is the Japanese art and practice of an irreplicable sense of bliss. My flower arrangement, roughly translating to fondest memories are characterized "making flowers come alive." Presenting a by sunsets over salty water, dripping plethora of colorful and unique flowers in yellow nectarines, and sunshine dancing one space results in a sculpture-like form, through olive branches. The season encapsulating the artistic expression of the serves as a nudge to embrace the natural practice. "I need to remind myself when to elements and share these experiences with stop; that is the hardest part sometimes," others. Warm weather and longer days laughs Jenn as she arranges her demo allow the luxury of spending more time to whimsical perfection. I resonate with outdoors, whether it’s relaxing poolside or her statement, as the perfectionist in me sipping in the garden. seldom knows when to let things be. I place my base in a shallow, repurposed Al fresco's literal Italian translation reads Jenni Kayne Home cereal bowl, and begin "in the cold." Modern interpretations to snip Florabundance florets. Alongside outside of traditional vernacular refer to this practice (in patience), I mosey to-andfood, art, or a location. In the context of from the Riviera Sips bicycle-turned-wine gathering, we adopted the term to refer cooler assemblage to refill my engraved to a meal enjoyed in the fresh air, often coupe with more Rosé. Guests admire involving elegant tablescapes paired with eachother's arrangements over small-talk– a hospitable atmosphere. In recent years, the imperfections and perfections alike. the concept has continued evolving into a practice of redefining the conventional “AS I BASK IN THE COMPANY OF MANY dining experience. My inspiration and interest draw from a recent luncheon I attended at the esteemed Santa Barbara House. The space– or dreamscape–is a historical landmark residence in the heart of downtown, home to intimate gatherings and the daintiest tree swing I've had the pleasure of sitting on. In May, I visited the grounds for the first time, welcomed by twin cypress trees and the gracious proprietor, photographer, and planner Jen Huang Bogan. Jen, alongside event planner Nina Moore and floral designer Jenn Sanchez, brought the Gather & Give: Ikebana Luncheon to fruition.

SELFLESS, TALENTED, AND CREATIVE WOMEN, IT IS AN UNDERSTATEMENT TO SAY THE AFTERNOON IS PURE MAGIC.”

Lunch catered by Bettina follows. We gather at tables adorned with tomatillos and foliage, pairing well with the floral accented tableware. I slice into burrata and strawberry, a cool breeze drawing the scent of pepperoni to me. The afternoon fades to a hot summer blur, accompanied by laughter, endless bites, and new friends. The luncheon is one of many gatherings benefitting local non-profit organizations, focusing this time on 4 Kids 2 Kids, which

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provides transitional housing for young, at-risk women rescued from human trafficking. As I bask in the company of many selfless, talented, and creative women, it is an understatement to say the afternoon is pure magic. As an ever-curious mind (and perhaps an event planner in a past life), I reached out to Jen for advice on upping one’s hosting game in an affordable, chic, and fun fashion.

ATMOSPHERE The beauty of most things lies in the details; hence, quaint attributes like lighting make all the difference. "Overhead lighting from cafe lights and landscaping lights is beautiful, but the trick to getting a dinner to linger into the night is cozy candlelight." Jen suggests using combinations of taper candles and votives to create that layering effect. Be sure to locate glass hurricanes to keep your candles from blowing out with the breeze (and keep them burning longer). Jen reccomends getting tapers from The Floral Society, as “they offer a variety of styles in calming, neutral colors that match everything.”

SETTING THE TABLE "Place settings don't have to be over the top to look beautiful," Jen shares. "For me, it's about the visual feast–the colors, tones, textures, and of course, the light." It all comes down to layers, so a simple salad plate over a dinner plate with linen napkins TO COOK, OR NOT TO COOK suffices wonderfully. "Water and wine glasses with Cooking at home shows affection–after all, there's varying heights and a few blooms or garden herbs no better feeling than people falling in love with in the center for eye candy should do the trick," your signature dish. Regardless, making food says Jen. It can be challenging to source tableware, for a large crowd can become a fumble rather so utilizing a rental company such as The Ark than a feast. "It's okay to enjoy yourself once in takes the stress off your plate (literally) while a while and let someone else take the reins," says allowing for creative leeway. Purchasing glasses Jen, adding, "I'm not a natural cook, so I love to and plates from a secondhand shop is another supplement the main course with an array of alternative to buying full-price or renting, and the starters, salads, and easy-to-share dishes from mismatching of glasses and decor adds a touch of a local restaurant." Choosing a spot that serves whimsy. seasonal dishes with a variety to please everyone is ideal. Family-style dining with serving bowls REIMAGINE YOUR SPACE and boards across the table is not only visually A traditional dining set with table and chairs is a appealing, but adds a charming social aspect to simple, classic setup–but if you don't have outdoor sharing a meal. furniture at your disposal, it’s okay. Creating floorstyle seating is a fun way to transform family-style gatherings and picnics into an intimate, eccentric Hosting is a special opportunity to tap into your setting. Many small businesses and shops discard creative side, plan an itinerary, and relish in the wooden pallets, so sourcing and repurposing fruits of the summertime. Whether or not you these makes for an understated ground-level take charge or let vendors and friends help cover alternative. Pallets are easy to transform by adding your bases, the outcome is sure to leave a lasting a linen tablecloth, a runner, and an assortment of impression. After all, the most rewarding aspect blankets and pillows around the space for guests of gathering is spending time with the people you to lounge on. love. *

30 | JULY/AUGUST 2022

Bettina Pizza

Ikebana Class: Jenn Sanchez Design Floristry Kit: The Floral Society Cut Flowers: Florabundance, Inc Pacifica Ikebana Vessel: Jenni Kayne Event Design: Nina Moore featuring the ARK & Epoch Design Location: Santa Barbara House

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HEAVENLY

PALATE THE RITZ-CARLTON BACARA’S ANGEL OAK STUNS THE SENSES WITH A COASTAL-INSPIRED PRIX FIXE MENU by DELANEY WILLET | Photographs by SILAS FALLSTICH

he Ritz-Carlton Bacara could serve solely mediocre cheeseburgers and french fries across the expanse of its dazzling 78 acres, and this would still be the most delightful meal to meet one’s lips on account of the oceanside elegance in which one is enveloped. Instead, the resort leaps one step further, with Angel Oak, the property’s prix fixe concept, to secure Bacara as a premiere destination of the California coast.

The restaurant boasts a 12,000-bottle wine cellar greeting guests upon entrance, and a cocktail program to be enjoyed atop the sweeping cerulean Amazonite bar, commanding the center of the vast dining room. Chef Josh Kellim has curated an opulent menu to match, sourcing the finest and freshest local ingredients to reflect the diverse tapestry of the Santa Barbara landscape. Angel Oak’s concept straddles steakhouse sophistication and seaside serenity, lending a certain relaxation to the stately fare. Delicate, fluffed focaccia garnished in poppy seeds and onions precedes an amuse bouche outfitted in a heaping dollop of caviar and grounded by a potato croquette. Diners are given the choice between Chef Kellim’s three- or five-course tasting menus, replete with pairings from the cellar and bar.

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BBQ Spanish Octopus @ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 33

Beef Tartare

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“ANGEL OAK’S CONCEPT STRADDLES STEAKHOUSE SOPHISTICATION AND SEASIDE SERENITY, LENDING A CERTAIN RELAXATION TO THE STATELY FARE.”

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My chosen meal is the delectable, ingestible manifestation of Angel Oak’s unique location. The horizon between land and sea is infused in each bite. Tuna crudo possesses a perfection in its outer sear, taking on the texture of a much meatier land protein, awakening the tongue with its still-briny balance of ocean salts. Maine lobster tagliatelle identifies an earthiness with winter white truffle, lending umami to the rich creaminess of the shellfish. The dishes place my palate in a culinary space miming my physical whereabouts; Chef Kellim’s creations could be eaten blindfolded, in a white room, and one would still imagine themselves on this cliffside, beneath a setting sun, tickled by the Pacific breeze, simply through his mastery of the flavors of this terroir. A classic vanilla creme brulee conjures an emblematic steakhouse finale to the tasting menu, rendered unique by the wisped pink filaments of the sun’s setting, celebrating the impending weekend amongst the developing dusk. The generous glass of sparkling Moscato poured as a complement, more reminiscent of an Old World cider than any libation, doesn’t hurt in setting the tone, either. Whether a doting couple or bubbling grouping of family and friends, the camaraderie shared from table to table as I imbibe the scene and the sweet wine declare without question: this is a meal–a moment–to be savored. *

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Maine Lobster Tagliatelle @ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 37

DOUGH DREAMING

38 | JULY/AUGUST 2022

Lavender Lemon

HOOK & PRESS’ HAND-CRAFTED DONUTS MIGHT JUST TURN YOU INTO A By EILEEN BETTINGER | Photographs by SILAS FALLSTICH MORNING PERSON

hether they’re an occasional treat or a daily kickstart, donuts are a lot of things to a lot of people: early-morning adventures with my dad during our New Jersey beach vacations, a spontaneous reward in the office lounge, or a date with friends at Hook & Press, where I end up buying three flavors because I can’t decide on just one–where we end up laughing as we cut each donut into thirds for a tri-flavored experience. While most donut shops revolve around grab-and-go style dining, Hook & Press invites guests into an artful communal space, offering an elevated yet approachable take on this ultimate comfort food. It’s immediately clear that Hook & Press provides customers with more than donuts and coffee. As I step inside their new location on East Figueroa Street, the bustling downtown atmosphere falls away and any residual morning stress is absorbed into the lofty ceilings above. Soft diffused light saturates the entire room, illuminating maple wood table tops and a mural with playful arches and organic shapes. Throughout the space,

pops of pastel pink and robin’s egg blue momentarily echo a vintage sweet shop before goldenrod accents rope them into a contemporary palette. “We wanted to create something special and memorable for locals and visitors,” say co-founders and married couple, John Burnett and Denisse Salinas. “It’s really about breaking bread with friends.” While a beautifully designed communal space cultivates familiarity among frequent customers, Hook & Press furthers this sense of community online by allowing Instagram followers to request back favorite flavors and see live updates of the donut-making process. The shop also partners with local charities through their “Doughnates” program, raising money with sales from novelty flavors. Last June for example, they donated a portion from every sale of “Ube Brownie” to the Pacific Pride Foundation and Healing Justice Santa Barbara. In addition to partnering with nonprofits, the brand extends local ties even further by sourcing its ingredients from local farms and purveyors. “It’s a system that benefits multiple businesses,” Burnett and Salinas

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Yerba Mate Latte (with butterfly pea flower and adaptogens)

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Counterclockwise from top left: Strawberry Shortcake, Cookie Monster, Old Fashioned, Everything Bagel

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explain. What’s more, these partnerships foster the brand’s commitment to using natural ingredients or as they like to say, “ingredients you can pronounce.” Each morning Hook & Press makes their donuts from scratch, concocting everything from fresh fruit glazes to shortbread cookie crumbles. “At the end of the day it’s about creating a good product,” says Burnett, “We’re honest about our food.” With such transparent practices and playful originality, Hook & Press embraces classic and makes it better, and it’s a difference you can taste. I bite into my Rose Hibiscus donut, floral notes greet my nose before a fruity magenta glaze starts to melt on my tongue. The freshly baked brioche is cloud-like, creating an irresistible doughy bite. I’m enamored with this more subtle natural sweetness, reminiscent of the nectar from honeysuckle flowers. My favorite is the Blueberry Crisp. Filled with a blueberry compote, an overnight brioche bun wears vanilla bean glaze like a crystalized cloak. Despite being cooked into a compote, the berry filled-center retains an amazingly fresh tartness. Topped with oat streusel and whipped cream, it tastes like an ode to the best summer evening pie.

“WITH SUCH TRANSPARENT PRACTICES AND playful ORIGINALITY, HOOK & PRESS EMBRACES classic AND MAKES IT better, AND IT’S A DIFFERENCE YOU CAN TASTE.”

Flavors like this distinguish Hook & Press as an innovative leader in the world of baked goods. Sticking to fresh ingredients puts their menu on a seasonal rotation, which enables them to showcase a seemingly infinite range of sweet and savory profiles. Donuts like Horchata Latte, Lavender Lemon, or on the more classic end, Malted Chocolate and Vanilla Sprinkle, show there’s truly something for everyone. Still in the process of expanding, Burnett and Salinas are excited about their new breakfast menu along with a wine and beer list. Most of all, however, they care about giving people something to love and remember. Reflecting on their journey with Hook & Press, Burnett confirms that building something so impactful has taken a lot of dedication. “It’s one of the most challenging things we’ve ever done,” he says, “But when we open the doors in the morning that all goes away.” *

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Avocado Tartine

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SB LIFE & STYLE wellness

FOOD FOR THOUGHT ENHANCE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH WITH FOOD by JILL DE JONG

Living Prana pancakes 44 | JULY/AUGUST 2022

BREAKFAST of CHAMPIONS

hink about all the times in a day that you chew food or drink something. All of these moments are opportunities to fuel your brain, to eat food that makes you think clearly and feel calmer and happier. Brain food is trending because many of us would like to feel less frazzled, tired and overwhelmed. And as much as we enjoy mindfulness practices like yoga, meditation and being out in nature to reduce stress and anxiety, it’s challenging to make time to commit to those practices daily. A smart place to start improving our mental health is by taking a close look at the food and beverages we consume. We often gravitate to eating the same things repeatedly, like we are on autopilot. So changing things up can make a significant difference. Start with one thing; you most likely have a desire to stop consuming or have a lot less of a certain food/beverage and want to find a healthier substitute. Or you may be snacking a lot but not eating whole meals and you’d like to see that improve. Whatever it is that you are going to change the following three suggestion can help you succeed: 1. NO TEMPTATION When you eliminate food/beverages DO NOT have them around.

Functional foods are foods that have a positive effect on health beyond basic nutrition. They promote optimal health and reduce the risk of disease. A familiar example is oatmeal, because it contains soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol levels. Some foods are modified to have extra health benefits. For example, we see a lot of new products with added adaptogens, which are plants and mushrooms that help your body respond to stress, anxiety, fatigue and overall well being. Adaptogens, like ashwagandha, ginseng, and rhodiola, bring your body back to a steady balance by managing both physical and mental stressors.

1 2

2. DO REPLACE/SUBSTITUTE Find healthier substitutes so you don’t feel as deprived.

Your body is essentially a free lab: you can test your body by eliminating, reducing or adding food (groups) and see how you feel. It may be helpful to keep a food diary: write down what you eat for 3-5 days and note how you feel. For example: sluggish or energized, frazzled/overwhelmed or calm. That way you can make food-mood connections for yourself. It’s empowering to know how to best take care of your body and mind. *

The MUD\WTR drink is a combination of masala chai, cacao, turmeric, cinnamon, Himalayan sea salt, and four types of mushrooms: lion's mane, cordyceps, chaga, and reishi. mudwtr.com

H E A LT H Y INDULGENCE

Living Prana pancake and waffle mixes are packed with 10+ nutrient-dense superfoods, mushrooms and adaptogens. livingprana.co

3. TRY NEW FOODS/BEVERAGES Go explore, there are so many great new products on the market with exciting health benefits.

C O F F E E SU B ST I T U T E

A L C O H O L SU B ST I T U T E Sound is fruity sparkling water, always organic and never sweetened, with added botanical notes. drinksound.com

EXTRA NUTRITION Kor Shots are a delicious range of wellness shots that provide a boost for your gut, body and brain function. korshots.com

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FIRE UP it

HAPPY GUT EQUALS A HAPPY LIFE THROUGH THE AYURVEDIC ENERGY PHILOSOPHY OF AGNI DIGESTION by CELINE WALLACE

n Ayurveda, we look at the interconnected relationship of our whole being–body, mind and spirit, and focus on the importance of nourishing all aspects. For example, if you have a headache, you may treat the symptoms acutely with pain relief vs. in Ayurveda, we look at a headache as our body's way of communicating that there’s something wrong with our digestion since the gut is our second brain, or that we're not processing something emotionally in our lives, so our body is repressing that emotion and shutting down, resulting in the headache. It's a fascinating way of seeing the body’s infinite intelligence and ability to communicate and heal.

feeling physically weak. Emotionally, you can feel tired, depressed, complacent, and unmotivated. Signs of too much Agni are the opposite; you will have too much heat in the body, resulting in symptoms like diarrhea, acid reflux, heartburn, acne, and rosacea, and are emotionally prone to moments of anger and frustration. Do either of these resonate with you, or do you have balanced Agni with a calm and even temperament and good digestion? If you have low Agni, drink warm water instead of cool, add lemon juice to water before meals, add sour, pungent, salty, and bitter flavors to your meals, and eat warm or cooked foods as they’re easier to digest.

One of the most essential parts of Ayurvedic philosophy is the concept of “Agni,” which in Sanskrit means fire. Agni refers to the digestive fire responsible If you have high Agni, eat cooling and calming foods, for supporting the digestive process, absorbing and and avoid caffeine, alcohol, spices, and anything assimilating nutrients, which are then converted that produces heat in the body. Focus on consuming into energy, and ultimately, our consciousness. The cooling, drying, light, and grounding foods. A gut produces 95% of the serotonin in the body, Kitchari cleanse is a great way to bring your body and serotonin levels affect our mood. That's why back into balance with a simple meal either daily or Ayurveda emphasizes having strong Agni, because over a series of days that helps cool, calm, and align strong digestion leads to a better attitude and your gut inflammation. ability to easily digest experiences. Yes, digestion is beyond the food you eat, it’s interrelated with your Ayurveda is all about how we process and transmit body's ability to process life. energy, which is Agni in the body. So, reflect on how you’re processing your life experiences and using With the perspective that digestion is the energy food to support the body, because when you manage available to break down everything we expose your energy, you manage your life. * ourselves to, it’s important to acknowledge if you have weak Agni or excessive Agni. Symptoms of weak For more information or to book a private Ayurvedic Agni include: not absorbing nutrients, constipation, consultation to discuss symptoms, you can find lethargy, feeling heavy and bloated, no appetite, and Celine at sattvasoulsupplements.com

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SUPPLEMENTS for the soul

sat down with our wellbeing columnist, ayurvedic practitioner, and counselor Celine Wallace of Sattva Soul to find out why the principles of Ayurveda are needed now more than ever. Read along for why she went from leading Sattva Soul luxury women's retreats to creating Sattva Soul Supplements, an organic, Ayurvedic supplement line helping women with chronic stress, fatigue, and anxiety.

How did you come across Ayurveda? I was living in LA about ten years ago, and I reached burnout. I knew I had to make significant lifestyle changes to feel better, so I researched holistic healing methodologies and stumbled upon Ayurveda. I ended up moving to India to live in an ashram and study traditional Ayurvedic medicine and heal my body. What inspired you to create supplements? Many of the women who came to my Sattva Soul retreats were under immense pressure from family life or high-stress corporate work environments. They needed nervous system support without having the time to escape their hectic schedules. So, I realized the need for an organic Ayurvedic supplement line of herbs like I'd experienced while studying Ayurveda in the Himalayas. I couldn't find anything I felt comfortable recommending to clients, so Sattva Soul Supplements was born.

Why do you think Ayurvedic products are so effective? Ayurvedic herbs have been around for 5,000 years, and there's a reason they have stood the test of time–because they work. Ashwagandha, an adaptogen that helps the body adapt to stress, is one of ayurveda's most well-known herbs. Then there are anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric and triphala that are phenomenal for digestion. For stress support and gut health, Ayurvedic herbs are some of the most potent and effective available. What's the difference between Sattva Soul and other premium supplements? Our herbs are organic, non-GMO, and sustainably farmed. I’ve met these farmers and respect their heritage. The energy and soil the plant is grown in affects the nutrient density of that plant, for example, an ashwagandha shrub grown on organic farms in India, versus factories in China, gives you a very different quality of product and energetic experience. Where can we find Sattva Soul Supplements? They are available at sattvasoulsupplements.com. There is a free Ayurvedic Dosha test, which helps you understand areas of your life that could use a little more balance or, as we say in Sanskrit, 'Sattva'! *

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SB LIFE & STYLE profile

Photographs by Rhys Carlill

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CHRONICLES of an AFICIONADA MEET STANDOUT DESIGNER KENDALL CONRAD, ANNOUNCED ROSEWOOD MIRAMAR BEACH’S FIRST-EVER PLACEMAKER by ALEXANDRA LEE

ficionada (noun): “A woman who is very knowledgeable about an activity, subject, or pastime. A connoisseur, expert, specialist, cognoscente, an enthusiast.” This Spanish expression represents the epitome of jewelry and leather goods designer Kendall Conrad’s brand ethos, though the word doubles back as a perfect descriptor of the mastermind herself. With an eclectic eye for design and distinctive vision in accessory craftsmanship, perhaps Kendall’s most powerful characteristic is simply existing as a self-proclaimed Santa Barbara girl. Recently named Rosewood Miramar Beach’s inaugural PlaceMaker, the designer demonstrates an unmatched relationship to both the resort and its surrounding locale, with an entrepreneurial spirit celebrating the effortless polish of Santa Barbara.

at her family house during the conference. One glance at Kendall’s exquisite attention to detail is evidential of a past in the presence of legendary creative minds.

Inspired by a rich Spanish heritage, Kendall’s designs have always exhibited a romantic flair, with a nod to the authentic costumery of the señoritas and toreros. “My father was a bullfighter in Spain before I was born—I was always dazzled by the costumes and the pageantry of the bullfight.” Taking note of every detail from the tassels on epaulets and the abanico hair combs of the señoritas, Kendall subtly incorporates these elements in her designs with a Californiacool take. “Seeing all these things as a young child, every year, left a huge stylistic impression on me,” she explains. Flamenco charms and fan-shaped gold earrings, along with brilliant Kendall Conrad and Rosewood Miramar Beach, simply put, tangerine and fuschia handbags, echo hues of artist Kees van go way back. Childhood memories dotted with poolside Dongen’s impressionist paintings. Comb Kendall Conrad’s summers and tennis lessons (every Thursday with Hilbert Lee) online store and you’ll stumble across jewelry “families,” are indicative of Kendall’s family ties to the hotel. In the ‘70s compiled of cohesive shapes and textures that each tell a story her parents founded the Santa Barbara Writers Conference, from the designer’s personal history. Take the Marrakech a week-long “think-tank” of intense workshops which, family—inspired by travels to Morocco in 2019, this line of unironically, were hosted locally at the Miramar every first necklaces, bangles, rings, and earrings harnesses the strong week of June. “Writers from all over the world would come— and sculptural energy of the nomadic Berber tribes. my dad was friends with all of them,” she says. Amongst these so-called friends were the likes of Ray Bradbury and Joan Kendall Conrad’s growth from an exclusively handbag line Didion, who, as Kendall nonchalantly recalls, would lodge into a collection of whimsical jewelry and functional leather

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goods, in the designer’s words, just made sense. “I had been making custom hardware for our bags—custom rings, custom bells, custom hooks—and it naturally turned into making jewelry,” Kendall says. Taking baby steps, leather cuffs and handbags grew into belts, wallets, and sandals. “We expanded the products that we sold, and it made for a much more dynamic store.” How does Kendall characterize the aesthetic of her handbags? Simple: “Sexy utility— it’s always got a function.” Explore her distinctive honeycomb-textured Playera or signature gathered bags, and you’ll understand why. As for her jewelry, it’s “sculptural, natural form, organic, shapely.” An abundance of unique textures and shapes, from large flat hoops and oblique bangles to spearhead-shaped rings, guarantee a never-ending selection of styles fit for every aficionada.

of Kendall’s brand. By taking advantage of scrap metals—“You just remelt it!”—she has eliminated all traces of environmentallyharmful nickel from her product range. As technology in producing functional mushroom-based vegan leather is on the horizon, Kendall is on the lookout for completely plant-based alternatives. Until then, she’s sourcing real leather as ethically as possible.

Everything “Kendall Conrad” returns back to the concept of the aficionada. Appropriately the title of her blog, Kendall continuously creates spaces to uplift and highlight the voices of empowering women who breathe life into her products. Who are the aficionadas? “Women that I really admire, that are doing something interesting.” How did she find them? “Well… they found me.” Launched four years ago as a passion project, the blog has transformed Rare to expect from a luxury fashion brand, from a place to profile customers wearing Kendall remains devoted to caring for both Kendall Conrad to an inspiration hub for the earth and local communities, exclusively celebrating individuality, leadership, and using leather as a by-product of the food passion. “People that have never been to industry while employing craftspeople the site before can understand it completely based in California. “I'm working with when they visit the Aficionadas profile.” It’s people from every country on the globe, less so a blog, and more an insight into the and we're all in LA. They're wonderful, complete aura of Kendall Conrad—who, by talented craftspeople.” Admitting she’s herself, exemplifies the previously defined always hated waste, producing local and connoisseur and enthusiast that we all hope using recycled materials are steadfast pillars exists behind the label on our handbags. *

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“WHO ARE THE AFICIONADAS? ‘WOMEN THAT I REALLY ADMIRE, THAT ARE DOING SOMETHING INTERESTING.’”

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SB LIFE & STYLE fashion

YACHT Photograps by JARED FIX |Drone Photographs by KEVIN SAVAGE | Art Director & Producer JOHANNA SMEDS Stylist OTTOCINA RYAN | Models MADI EDWARDS with Two Management & PAIGE MARIAH with L.A. Models Hair & Makeup CLAIRE PIAO | Location 63' RIVA YACHT, EXOTIC YACHTS LA exoticyachtsla.com

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Norma Kamali swimsuits, Allora by Laura

CLUB

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Zimmermann swimsuit Versace platforms, The Webster Kapri earrings Anne Sisteron rings & bracelets

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Versace platforms, The Webster

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Lisa Marie Fernandez bikini, The Webster Chanel skirt, The Webster Anne Sisteron ring, bracelet & earrings

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LHD dress, The Webster Kapri earrings Kai Linz ring, Allora by Laura Anne Sisteron necklace & bracelets Dolce & Gabbana tote, Marcus

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Jacquemus dress, The Webster Solkissed bikini, Kariella Kapri earrings Anne Sisteron necklace

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Peter Cohen dress, Allora by Laura Kapri earrings Anne Sisteron rings, necklace & bracelets Fendi clutch, Marcus

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Norma Kamali swimsuits, Allora by Laura Anne Sisteron necklaces Kai Linz ring, Allora by Laura

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Peter Cohen dress, Allora by Laura Kapri earrings Anne Sisteron rings, necklace & bracelets Fendi clutch, Marcus

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Ramy Brook jumpsuit Anne Sisteron ring, earrings, necklace & bracelet Missguided chain belt

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Bottega Veneta handbag, The Webster Anne Sisteron rings & bracelet

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Zimmermann swimsuit Kapri earrings Anne Sisteron necklace, rings & bracelet

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Rosie Assoulin dress, The Webster

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OUT WEST Photograps by JACQUELINE PILAR | Stylist OTTOCINA RYAN | Model MARIAH STRONGIN with Wilhelmina | Hair & Makeup JA'NICE RAMOS | Horses LOS PADRES OUTFITTERS

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Dôen dress Lotte.99 underpants, Brass Tack Charlotte’s necklaces, Devine Supply Ranch Road boots @ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 67

Lotte.99 shirt, Brass Tack Understated Leather shorts, Brass Tack Earrings, Whiskey & Leather Ranch Road boots

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Lotte.99 shirt, Brass Tack Charlotte’s necklace, Devine Supply Teressa Foglia hat

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Understated Leather jacket, Brass Tack Jacquemus dress, net-a-porter.com Teressa Foglia hat Ring, Brass Tack

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Show Me Your Mumu top, Whiskey & Leather Robin Mollicone bolo tie, Brass Tack Montana Territory Hat Company hat, Brass Tack Jacquemus pants, net-a-porter.com Earrings, Whiskey & Leather

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A Perfect Nomad dress, Brass Tack Ranch Road boots Charlotte's bracelet, Devine Supply

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Deep Blue Bikini Co. swimsuit Understated Leather chaps, Brass Tack Montana Territory Hat Company hat, Brass Tack

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Dèluc. dress, Whiskey & Leather B-Low The Belt belt, Brass Tack Necklace & bracelet, Brass Tack Penny Royal bag, Brass Tack

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Experience Santa Barbara from a new perspective: on horseback! Los Padres Outfitters offers beach and trail rides for any occasion and every level of rider, from sunrise to sunset. Explore the American Riviera on a romantic seaside ride, or venture Montecito mountain vistas, stopping to savor a packed picnic. Friendly horses and expertly-trained staff are prepared to make your equestrian journey memorable and hassle-free. A Perfect Nomad dress, Brass Tack Ranch Road boots

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Dôen dress B-Low The Belt belt, Brass Tack Ranch Road Boots Earrings, Whiskey & Leather

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SB LIFE & STYLE travel

Bodrum Edition Private Spa Cabana Lobby Lounge 78 | JULY/AUGUST 2022

R I TZ Y JUST GIVE ME THE RITZ-CARLTON

ometimes the only cure for what ails you is to check in somewhere fabulous and let them take over. Not an Airbnb with a kitchen, wonderful as that may be. I’m talking about the grand tradition of a sumptuous hotel! Where the light is left on for you no matter what time you arrive, a second set of keys waiting. With concierges who do amazing things. Fine room service. Floral arrangements. A list of babysitters and masseuses. They accept your shopping packages when you’ve been on a mission, too engaged to turn back now. So hands down, we were inspired when we hit on the idea to turn ourselves in at the pearly gates of The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco. Just let them handle us for a couple of nights.

Ah, bliss and unabashed pampering. The bed you’ve always wanted, with those perfect little reading lights that you see but your friend in the next bed does not. Toiletries from England, remember England? from before All This? We found ourselves in a snug corner of the universe bursting with a culture of sincere hospitality. The Ritz-Carlton emanates refinement without being fussy. A haven. Everyone is so genuinely nice, so glad to be there it seems. I’d built up a need to be spoiled that was frankly epic. Everybody has a Covid story so I’ll spare you my multiple life

by CLAUDIA LAPIN

crises intersecting simultaneously–no way could I make it to the airport and deal. But drive past lovely green rolling hills? One picnic stop and we’re there? I could do that. I handed the valet my keys and never saw the car again until it was time to go home. From the first moment, I perceived a difference at The Ritz-Carlton. Patrick brought our luggage from the car to the room, and figured out whose was whose and placed it according to the beds we’d chosen. I asked him how he did it; he said it was a habit of studying who took what from the car. My friend Jane’s purple sweater draped on her bed was the giveaway. This genuinely cheerful, engaged niceness all around started having an effect on us. We became cheerful. We became ecstatic upon discovering how glorious the food was on the club level; more on that in a bit. There’s a big bowl of fortune cookies at the front desk and we were told that fortune cookies originated in 1914 in San Francisco; we got into the habit of starting and ending the day with new fortunes. More happy good moments, good fortune foretold. I liked the bustle of the lobby and walking past the boutique, the perfumery,

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the dazzling wine tasting room with its red walls, leopard print carpet, Baccarat chandeliers and intimate four stool bar, past extravagant bursts of orchid arrangements. Here was life again, and we could partake or retreat. How thrilling just to feel it there; we made bookings for wine tasting followed by dinner at their restaurant for the next night. This trip was about cocooning juxtaposed with mad dashes to Neiman Marcus, Saks and Loro Piana. We worked those stores floor by floor. I certainly am over privileged and snobby but when was the last time you looked at alligator belts in Santa Barbara? Fine shoes? Is it even possible? I’d been wearing my jewelry to water the farm. In addition to horror and panic, Covid has also bored the bejesus out of everyone from sixth graders to grandma. There we were in Union Square, now looking better than ever. I don’t know what you’ve been hearing about San Francisco, tales of bums and syringes but apparently the flashmob shoplifting episode had an effect in downtown SF. Plenty of security was in evidence. No ugliness in any of its usual forms. Not asking questions here, just adoring my beloved San Francisco that I’ve been enjoying all my life. I will always love it, and it was sublime to be walking around.

chocolate cake supreme, and so we blamed Patrick when we met him at breakfast in the Parallel 37 restaurant for our excesses. Everything we tasted was inspired. Even the oatmeal was the slow cook kind, with flax seed and other dainties at the ready for the health enthusiast, no doubt bound for yoga in the courtyard. I was bound for nothing but seconds. This club offering, with food served throughout the day and much of the night, is an amazing value. All the service personnel displayed the hallmark RitzCarlton cheer. Impeccable. Dinner at the restaurant featured truly astonishing steaks, perhaps the most tender I’ve ever tried, and farm fresh salad greens, but to us the atmosphere lacked intimacy. Others might not agree, but it’s a very large room reminiscent of an airport lounge, albeit a glamorous one. Perhaps it was in contrast to the coziness in the JCB Tasting Lounge before dinner, a little opium den crossed with a party yacht at Cannes. Here you leave the kids upstairs and let them bring Napa to you in rare Baccarat stemware, for sale, naturally. I haven’t the wine expertise to report faithfully on the marvelous treasures we explored, other than to say there were some legendary names that would please a very discerning connoisseur. Raymond, Buena Vista, De Loach, Wattles Creek–the grand tour of Northern California all brought to you in a special Baccarat glass. We had chosen the highest level of “flight,” and indeed we were soaring. Three or four types of caviar with salted potato chips were on offer; the whole atmosphere of pleasure was pushed several notches higher by our hostess, whose knowledge of each wine was impressive. The Eurobeat throbbed, mirrors and fine crystal amplified the effect, the wine was otherworldly, the luxuriousness of the decor made me want to throw a party in there. I decided I actually was throwing a party in there, for myself.

We never strayed far from the delicacies on the club floor, though. I’m a good cook, but if you present me with unfathomable riches ready whenever I’m hungry, I’ll get out of the kitchen and stay out for a good while. The selections were exquisite, artfully and beautifully presented, from pulled pork buns to fresh chicken or steak tacos, farm fresh salads, small plates of crudites and charcuterie, hummus, smoked salmon. Then also amazing cheese platters and small plates of colorful cut fruit. Lovely wines and hard liquor if you were up to it. Espresso and cappuccino. The desserts drove us insane. We later met the new Irish chef, Patrick O’Sullivan, whose recipe for bread pudding utilizing croissants and chocolate bits in a dreamy custard was my downfall. And that party for yourself, in essence, sums up a I ate three mini portions in quick succession. My stay at The Ritz-Carlton, in Nob Hill, in that city we friend, a confirmed chocoholic, crowned the love, San Francisco. *

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THE RITZ CARLTON, SAN FRANCISCO

CARAMELIZED APPLE BREAD PUDDING INGREDIENTS

Makes 1 8-inch round

3/4 cup + more to taste 1/4 tsp 1 3/4 cup 8 1/8 tsp 1 tsp 2 1 tbs 4-6

granulated sugar cinnamon heavy cream egg yolks salt calvados or brandy apples, diced, cooked with butter, sugar butter day old croissants

M ET H O D : For custard and apples: Combine granulated sugar and cinnamon. Heat heavy cream with granulated sugar and cinnamon mixture until sugar is melted. Pull off heat and temper* in egg yolks, add salt, calvados or brandy, and vanilla extract, whisking well to combine. Use custard while still warm. Melt butter in sauté pan, add diced apples and granulated sugar to taste and cook apples until just tender. For pudding: Butter 8 in. round pan. Dice croissants 3/4-1 in. and scatter into buttered pan. Scatter cooked apples over croissants. Pour warm custard over cubed croissants and heat oven to 325˚ F while pudding soaks. Bake in a hot water bath (bainmarie) in oven for approximately 45-50 minutes. *To temper: Temper is a process where hot liquid is gradually added to eggs that need to be incorporated into a hot liquid without curdling. This slowly raises their temperature. How to: Place egg yolks in a large bowl, use a ladle to stream in hot liquid gradually while whisking vigorously. Only ladle in 1/4 of your mixture at a time until all of the hot liquid is incorporated.

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ROOM WITH A SOAKING IN THE BEST MALLORCA HAS TO OFFER AT JUMEIRAH PORT SOLLER

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VIEW by OTTOCINA RYAN

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think if you condensed California’s best areas onto an island, it would look like Mallorca. The landscape is ripe with lemon and orange groves, traditional Spanish stone houses, sheep grazing beneath almond trees. The 45 minute drive from Palma de Mallorca Airport to Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa winds between the Tramuntana Mountains, towering like Yosemite, ultimately reaching cliffs reminiscent of Big Sur. Perched above the coastal town of Port Soller, the hotel comes into sight. The property itself is nuanced and modern, so to claim the view is the most beautiful aspect is saying a lot. Entering my junior suite, I walk straight to the balcony, mesmerized. It’s right on the edge and all I can see is ocean, sky and cliffs. I sink into the outdoor couch and watch sailboats and speedboats pass by, the rhythmic ebbs and flows of the waves crashing on the rocks, seagulls flying at eye level. Luckily I don’t have to miss a moment when getting ready for dinner because there’s a glass wall beside the rain shower and soaking tub, and a window in the walk-in closet. The only thing able to pull me away? A more expansive vantage point, at Sunset Bar. A couple gin and tonics from their endless selection prelude a Peruvian Japanese fusion dinner. The server assures me that Cap Roig, the property’s fine dining and breakfast restaurant, has an even better perspective, as if we’re looking at a parking lot, not an unobstructed panorama of the harbor and ocean with the sunset directly ahead.

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Breakfast can’t come soon enough. Minutes after golden light illuminates my room I’m settling into “As the as the sun sets I climb several flights of a corner table at Cap Roig. The server pours me stairs to the infinity pool. It looks as if orange dye orange juice, from local oranges of course, and I order avocado toast. The concierge visits my table, has been poured into the water. ” wondering about my plans for the day. From my Rejuvenated and glowing, I take the hotel shuttle into Port Soller perch I can see just about every option—the pools, town, hiking, to wander the sleepy cobblestone streets, popping in shops spa, beach. I mention wanting to explore the surrounding selling traditional woven bags and textiles. I hop on the trolley mountains and she sends me several trail suggestions via running though the main square and the surrounding groves WhatsApp. After breakfast I stop by the concierge desk for of lemon, orange, and avocado trees. The entire ride smells like directions to the trailhead and she withdraws and iPad and citrus blossoms. shows me a time-lapse video of the hike, detailing turns to take and gates to pass through. The video is the reason I don’t I return to Cap Roig for dinner. The seafood salad is everything get lost amongst the olive trees and make it to the stone tower you could want in a meal overlooking the Mediterranean— overlooking the azure sea, encountering a family of eight goats fresh squid, shrimp, octopus, and tomatoes enhanced by local (yes, including babies) along the way…and back in time for my spices and olive oil. A true reflection of the bounty of the island. facial appointment at Talise Spa. The 90-minute Samadara Ultimate Age-Defying Facial utilizes Ayurvedic techniques to rejuvenate my complexion, interspersing masks with facial massage. Walking to the relaxation area I glimpse in the mirror and my skin is luminescent. I soak in the spa’s hydropool, I don’t know what the health benefits of the water are, but the majestic view of the mountains definitely does more.

As the sun sets I climb several flights of stairs to the infinity pool. It looks as if orange dye has been poured into the water. Guests that filled the lounge chairs all afternoon, soaking in the summer heat and lively atmosphere, have dispersed. It’s serene. I swim to the edge and watch the ocean swallow the sun. The only motivation I have to ever leave this view is a reservation on Capri… *

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Il Riccio Beach Club

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APRI FUN CAPRI PALACE JUMEIRAH IS ELEGANT AND SERENE BEYOND EXPECTATIONS, WITH FUN SURPRISES AROUND EVERY CORNER by

OTTOCINA RYAN

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apri is magic,” the lifeguard nods, handing me a towel as I climb out of the Mediterranean. Winding stone steps lead me up to Il Riccio beach club, where I rejoin my friends at the hot spot’s Sea Lounge. Decked in blue and orange Toile de Jouy print for Dior’s summer pop-up, the lively terrace is filled with wicker seating, daybeds and people who are probably verified on Instagram. We retreat to Il Riccio Ristorante, a floor below. The music softens and attention shifts to the dolphins jumping out of the sea and blue tables spread with fresh shellfish. I wind uni spaghetti, perfectly al dente, around my fork until my plate is empty. A formality really, as I’ve had my eyes set on The Temptation Room since we sat down, waiting to give in. Adjacent the dining area is a room filled with platters of every dessert you can imagine. Cream stuffed pastries, cakes, fruit, gelato…it’s the cherry on top of an idyllic afternoon.

can watch people swim amongst the underwater mosaic. My walk from the lobby to my room is guided by intriguing, thought provoking, memorable art. Many of the rotating collections are more modern and playful than what you’d expect at a five star hotel, which makes the stay fun and exciting. Entering my suite feels like a dream every time. Glossy white and blue tiles created by local artisans coat the floor. All of the furniture is white—from the airy canopy bed to the mirrored closets and a living room with pristine couches. It’s as authentic to Capri as it is beautiful.

As the sun fades, the Capri Palace Jumeirah hotel shuttle transports us back from the beach club (owned by the hotel), up impossibly narrow roads, squeezing beside Vespas. The property is as much an art gallery as a hotel. The entry portico has elegant white sculptures of fish bones and shells Just off the lobby, we dine at L’Olivo the only two interspersed with windows to the pool, where you Michelin Star restaurant on the island. A fireplace quietly crackles beside our table and the space is filled with plush couches and earth tones. The atmosphere is comforting, not stuffy. The food follows suit, a feat considering how refined it is. We enjoy a selection of bread, delivered by the bread trolley, and an amuse bouche while surveying a wine list heavier than a textbook and the extensive water list. Chef Andrea Migliaccio’s lemon scented tagliolini topped with burrata and red prawns, the tuna belly, and The Milk

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Il Riccio Ristorante

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Capri Palace Jumeirah Ocean Suite

dessert display flavor and texture combinations so exquisite I remember them long after our plates are cleared. As a display of candies is served I check my phone and it’s after midnight, a telltale sign of an exceptional dinner. Sunlight pours into the already bright space, acting as a wake up call and luring me to the balcony. I return to L’Olivo for breakfast and the staff joke that it’s a two Michelin Star breakfast because it's in the same restaurant. I wouldn’t disagree. I savor berry filled and cream filled croissants and order scrambled eggs with black truffle and asparagus.

“ENTERING MY suite FEELS LIKE A dream EVERY TIME. GLOSSY WHITE AND blue tiles CREATED BY local artisans COAT THE FLOOR.”

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We set off to explore the island. Steps from the hotel, the chairlift takes us to the highest point (early to beat the lines). My feet dangle above gardens bursting with grapes and citrus, the sweet smell of wildflowers fills the air as I float above the treetops. While touristy, it doesn’t feel contrived. The peak offers spectacular views of the cliffs and sparkling blue sea below. We descend and walk around Anacapri, one of the two municipalities on Capri. Streets are lined with gelatarias and boutiques offering to fulfill any desire you have for an exclusively blue and white linen wardrobe and custom sandals. I return to Capri Palace and lounge poolside. The property is centrally located yet the red chaises and umbrellas popping against the garden landscape evoke the feeling of a secluded resort. Below the surface is another world with the sparkling mosaic and windows looking out to the entrance. The couple seated across from me dives in. The leather jacket nonchalantly draped on his chair reminds me I’m not cool enough for this pool.

I retreat back inside Capri Palace for my spa appointment. Capri Medical Spa’s greenhouse entrance foreshadows their holistic approach. I’m not here to doze off during a massage. I’m here for Leg School—a treatment that balances hormones, increases metabolism and lymphatic drainage, and reduces cellulite and swelling. It was created and patented by former pediatrician Dr. Francesco Canonaco to remedy the cellulite and poor circulation he saw in mothers. To begin, Clara slathers my legs in a mask comprised of 26 natural ingredients and lets it sit for 20 minutes. I rest on a chaise as my legs get increasingly colder. She then rinses it off and wraps my legs in medicated gauze. Once that’s removed I walk through alternating hot and cold pools ten times. “No pain no gain,” Clara laughs as I shiver through my first lap. The freezing water is jarring at first, but Clara’s jokes keep me smiling, and after lap eight I could do this all day. Noticing the visibly diminished cellulite on my legs, I think I could come back and do it every year. She mentions many clients do. I’d argue that speaks partly to its effectiveness, mostly to the entire staff ’s compassion and warmth. It’s as if “Are you funny?” is asked in their hiring process. The doctor recommends pairing Leg School with a detox Mediterranean diet customized by the on-site dietician, starting at 800 calories per day. That’s not my path (see aforementioned cream filled croissants and pasta). Yet I can fully indulge and leave Capri with smoother legs, if that’s not magic I don’t know what is. *

WHAT to PACK BEACH CLUB EDITION

L A P I M A M A FA L D A N AT U R A L W H I T E V I N TA G E S U N G L A S S E S $523

Sunning by the pool all day certainly requires the appropriate eyewear. Opt for these artisan-crafted stunners, designed to mimic the movement of the sea with their oversized swooping frame. With their avant-garde aesthetic, these sunnies are destined for an Italian holiday. lapima.com

CAR OLINA K C R O C H ET B I K I N I $450

For that coveted “I’m on vacation” aura, crochet swimwear is a non-negotiable. In a playful print, this suit accents the patterned ambiance of Il Riccio while competing with the island’s dramatic views. Inspired by Latin American culture and crafted sustainably, Carolina K encourages supporting slow fashion in standout style. carolinak.com

LOEWE BALLOON TOP $1,300

Nothing screams Capri more than playful elegance, especially in a blue and white colorway. Flirtatious and contemporary, this blossoming blouse floats across the island while reflecting hues of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Cascading fabric and an open back guarantee a look fit for the queen…of Capri Palace, of course. loewe.com

C U YA N A M I N I S Y S T E M T O T E $228

Sport a bag that will complement your effortless Southern European tan. Cuyana’s mini tote is the ideal petite size for stashing all your vacation essentials (including those killer frames), and is crafted from authentic Italian leather. Throw on a shoulder strap, or carry it slouchy-style on your way for some cacio e pepe. cuyana.com

Capri Medical Spa

by ALEXANDRA LEE

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STO P A N D S M E L L

the rosé

SIPPING THE WEEKEND AWAY AT NAPA’S NEWEST SPOTS by OTTOCINA RYAN

“

ook, a friend!” Driving up the Silverado Trail in Napa, I turn to see where my friend Johanna points, expecting deer grazing alongside a vineyard. Instead it’s a white Rolls-Royce Dawn convertible, contrasting the dual colored Ghost we just drove up the California coast. Its seat massage, fluffy lambswool carpet, and audio system rivaling a concert made the six hour drive feel like a joyride, yet we’re ready for some wine.

Arriving at R INN in downtown Napa, we let ourselves in via the keypad codes emailed prior to check-in and owner Sean greets us at the front desk, extending glasses of Rosé. He gives us a quick tour around the quaint yet contemporary property steeped in family collaboration. The interior design is his sister’s expertise and his father took the photographs displayed throughout. Sean’s nephew is the subject of one of the many whimsical sculptures. We settle into our suite, one of five lofts on the fifteen room property. The space is sexy and high tech, ensuring we’re never without TVs that disappear when not in use, heated floors and toilet seats, remote controlled everything, and, up the sleek floating stairs: a bed with zero gravity settings. Photo by Ecoventura Galapagos 92 | JULY/AUGUST 2022

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FARM at Carneros Resort

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Rolls-Royce Ghost

Gold paint drips down the edge of the fireplace in the common lounge area, which is adorned with jewel hued decor and marble tic-tac-toe boards. The modern interiors are perfectly balanced by a charming courtyard bursting with iceberg roses, Adirondack chairs huddled around a bubbling fountain and bocce ball begging for a sunset game, Pinto Noir in hand. The staff is quick with restaurant recs, and anything else we desire, yet we are entirely self sufficient, as if staying at our second home. I grab pistachios from the communal pantry as if it’s my own kitchen as Johanna and I head out for a walk. Main Street is a couple blocks away—close enough for convenience, far enough for quiet. Throughout downtown Napa, every garden appears to be an endorsement for Miracle-Gro. We peruse bohemian boutiques and then walk further along the river until we encounter Rail Arts District, modeled after Miami’s Wynwood. Thoughtful and intricate murals line the train tracks, many depicting rising from the ashes post fires. En route back to R INN we stop for dinner at newly opened Osha for the comforting Thai food we’d been craving. Tom yum soup and spring rolls segue into a dramatic entree: Khao Soi Beef Short Rib with egg noodles. Our attentive server explains the origin of the dish, noting that it’s a traditional Northern Thai dish with red, green and yellow curries. We finish with Thai tea tempura ice cream and mango with blue sticky rice, glad we didn’t choose between the two. In the morning fresh quiche, berries, yogurt, and pastries fill the Loft Kitchen. We help ourselves and make a plan for the day. As we set out we don’t have to remember a room key or a mask. Life is good.

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In an effort to enjoy the sunshine as much as possible, we have brunch on the patio of Farm restaurant at Carneros Resort. The menu goes like this: each table orders four dishes, which are served family style, with portions for each person. You can’t go wrong…as long as you get the Brioche French Toast cloaked in fluffy vanilla chantilly, violets, and strawberries. And the Braised Beets and Berries, with fromage blanc, granola, and lettuce grown on property—an embodiment of summer. The friendly, flawless service is worth the visit on its own and the view of the surrounding garden beds and chickens gives the feeling of being on an actual farm.

“THROUGHOUT DOWNTOWN NAPA, EVERY GARDEN APPEARS TO BE AN ENDORSEMENT FOR MIRACLE-GRO.” After a leisurely brunch we drive to Bread and Butter Wines, winding amongst vineyards dripping with clusters and California poppies as prolific as grapevines. The tasting room manager Lori happily welcomes us, seating us on the edge of the patio with a view of vines as far as the eye can see. She’s approachable and fun, eager to share the knowledge she’s accumulated from a decades long wine career. We begin with sparkling and move on to Chardonnay. Lori offers pairing suggestions with each tasting. “I wish I had some Thomas Keller fried chicken for you,” she fantasizes as Rosé made from Pinot Noir grapes cascades into our glasses. Bread and Butter will soon have, as you could probably guess, bread from a local bakery and flavored butter pairings to accompany each wine.

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Pulling up to our next stop, Clif Family Winery in St Helena, I feel we should have ridden up on a bike. The lively destination, owned by the family behind Clif Bar, is a mecca for cyclists. Live music fills the garden patio and we take a seat in the sun. The laid back tasting room is complemented by their adjoining upscale Enoteca Private Tasting Salon, with a view of the Mayacamas Mountain Range, and Bruschetteria Food Truck, offering organic bruschettas topped with ingredients from the Clif Family farm. Even more comforting than the wine and atmosphere, is the company’s ethos: taking care of people and creating high quality wines, while leaving the smallest footprint possible. For example, they give employees designated time off to volunteer. Tasting room shelves are stocked with honey, olive oil, and jams made from their farm. Fun fact: their horses and chickens are fed Clif Bar remnants. Leaving with a bottle of Rosé, I’m not sure which I like more, the wine or the culture and community they’ve fostered. On our way out of town the next day we swing by Oxboro Public Market, owned by the developer of San Francisco’s Ferry Building, with a few of the same tenants. A local’s spot during the week and tourist hub on weekends, it has all the fixings for a barbecue dinner, charcuterie board picnic, or easy lunch. A fresh juice bar commingles with C Casa (a healthy Mexican food spot), Kara’s Cupcakes (get the passion fruit), a cheese shop, and Whole Spice, offering every spice in any amount. We stock up on snacks for the way home at specialty market Hudson Greens & Goods and hop in the RollsRoyce Ghost, for a drive as enjoyable as the destination. *

Clif Family Wines

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48 HOURS

SANTA YNEZ COFFEE

Kickstart your day at Queen Cup Coffee, an ethically sourced, inviting coffee shop in the heart of Santa Ynez. Keep it simple with their classic coffee menu, or step your morning up a notch with their array of “fancy” drinks like a Dirty Horchata or a Salty Scotch Latté. @queencupcoffee

in Santa Ynez & Ojai

UNWIND

Santa Ynez General is the pinnacle of countryside chic. Pop in their apparel store for a wardrobe revamping, or browse their thoughtfully curated goods store for candles, books, throws, and kitchenware. @santaynezgeneral

Stimulate your mind and body at Farmacy Santa Ynez, the next location of Santa Barbara’s new-generation dispensary, opening in September. The shop carries a wide array of high-quality edibles, tinctures, topicals, and flowers to suit your needs, that come in a variety of different flavors and When the truffles catch your strains, respectively. eye on that big pizza pie–that’s @farmacy.ca amore! The renowned SY Kitchen, sister to Nella Kitchen + Bar in Los Olivos, is sure to wow your taste buds with unique pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a ravishing take on a classic tiramisu. Enjoy the summer air on the firepit patio, or revel in the buzz of the indoor bar. @sykitchen

HIKE

SHOP

OJAI

Explore Rose Valley Falls for a beginner’s out-and-back trail in Ojai. Swim through the pools under the falls, bring your furry friend along on a leash, or pack a bag to camp at the trail’s grounds.

DINNER

deKor Living transforms a house into a home with rustic furnishings, stunning kitchenware, and essential coffee table books. With a passion for sourcing antiques, the space carries artisan pieces from around the world. Be sure to check out their whimsical classics like the You can’t go wrong with the deKor Swing and their Ojai candle that melts into massage raw bar and natural wines Sip on handcrafted wine at Rory’s Place Ojai. The oil. @dekor.living surrounded by glowing atmosphere is whimsical and mountainscapes at Topa moody, accented by a stunning Mountain Winery. Opt for wine bar and outdoor variety with their tasting flight seating. Feast on Big-Eye while you graze on snack Tuna Crudo and sea urchin offerings, or select a few of from the raw bar, or Winter your favorite bottles to get the Squash Tempura and Lobster party started. Agnolotti from the fire. @topamountainwinery @rorys_place_ojai

DINE

TASTE

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Photo by Mariah Green

DESSERT

Saving room for dessert is in our practice. Head into Solvang for locally-owned artisan gelato at Via Gelateria that will transport you to Italy itself. Opt for their unique seasonal flavors like lavender or matcha, or stick to the basics with vanilla bean or espresso. @via_gelateria_solvang

STAY

“Trailer park” takes on a whole new meaning with Caravan Outpost’s luxury retro airstreams. Nestled in the center of Ojai, the caravans are perfect for a playful, upscale retreat within walking distance from shops and restaurants. Rest in their private botanical gardens or take out one of their cruiser bikes and hit the town. @caravanoutpost

Photo by @theadventurebuddies

San Ysidro ranch

(805) 565-1724

sanysidroranch.com