CALIFORNIA HOTELSCOOL IN HOT LOCALES BestCountryWineGettiesPlacestoStay,EatandThingstodo
SCAN CURRENTFOROFFERS Imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features, or itineraries. These may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice. For complete details on our safety protocols on board, visit healthyatsea.com.©2022 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador.
CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR OR VISIT CELEBRITY.COM
This year, celebrate the season on an award-winning Caribbean or Mexican Riviera vacation, and leave the holiday hassle in your wake. Escape to breathtaking places—like St. Thomas, Tortola, Cozumel, Cabo San Lucas, and Grand Cayman—on a ship that’s a destination itself. We’ll take care of every festive detail on board. Savor delicious holiday meals with menus crafted by our Michelin-starred chef. Enjoy stunning decorations and entertainment that will get the whole family in the spirit. Ring in the New Year at a ship-wide champagne gala. And the best part? You don’t have to do a thing but relax.
TURN YOUR GET-TOGETHERHOLIDAY INTO A TROPICAL GETAWAY
44 ROCKSTHEON
6 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 Features FALL 2022
Farm to Fab Though long known for posh properties with superlative amenities and top-notch ser vice, there’s been an explosion of new and renewed hotels and resorts in Napa Valley and Sonoma County by Dana Rebmann 44 P.S. We Love You Long before Coachella (Valley Music and Arts Festival) and the influx of Bay Area tech employ ees fleeing to drier pastures, Palm Springs was already an established sun-soaked oasis. by Kasia Pawlowska, Mimi Towle, Ann Wycoff 52 Let the Good Times Roll Talk about an eleventh hour eagle. The pandemic delivered an unexpected top score for the game and poof — golf is back, better than ever. by Robert Kaufman On the Cover: Hermann Bungalows, part L’Horizon Resort & Spa, in Palm Springs. Photo by Jim Bartsch. CALIFORNIA
36
ED MOSES inches72x60asonylicA2001crcanv Rober t Green Fine Ar ts, established 1969, exhibits primarily painterly, abstract expressive work by painters that thoroughly take advantage of the sensually evocative nature of color and form. 15 4 T H R O CK M O R T ON A V EN U E , M I L L V A L L E Y C A 94941 • P H ONE 415 381 8776 • R O B E R T GREEN F I NE A R T S C O M G A LL E R Y H O U R S : F R I D AY - SU N D AY 11-5, M O N D AY T H U R S D AY B Y A P P O I N T MENT
Ed Moses (1926 - 2018) emerged in the late 1950’s as a leading member of the generation of painters and sculptors who came of age aesthetically just as Los Angeles and San Francisco were rising to prominence as major art centers. In a creer that spanned seven decades, Ed Moses is known for his restless intensity and ever evolving style and considered one of the foremost postwar abstract expressionist painters.
8 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 Departments FALL 2022
82 Yesterday Coit Tower, a 20-story reinforced concrete tower high atop Telegraph Hill is a staple of San Francisco’s skyline. So why, how and when did it get there?
26 Dose of Aloha There’s a movement to bring back original Hawaiian names to popular attractions. Here’s a list of a few to keep in mind for the next time you visit.
20 Road Trip State Route 49 passes through historic mining communities in Tuolumne, Calaveras and Amador Counties, among others. Here’s a closer look at some not-to-be-missed spots.
34 Interview Considering Equator Coffees recent expansion to Los Angeles, we figured now would be good time to shine the light on this dynamic team via founder — and spokesperson — Helen Russell.
59 Planner Annual fall events around the G reater Bay Area.
74 Local Getties Our picks for best hotels, restaurants and activities in Napa Valley and Sonoma County, along with readers’ choice favorites.
17 California Living Ways to sustainably order sushi, Wine Countries to explore throughout the state, lust-worthy Bay Area rooftops, travel apps for your best trip yet and more.
70 Eat Wine bars are like snowflakes: each one is distinct in look and feel, wine selection and vibe. Here are our favorites from around the Bay Area.
FIELD NOTES
78
RANCHBELTANEOFCOURTESYBOARD);ARTISANCELLAR,(SAVVYEANESLORI 70
SuttonSuzuki.comMillValleyCA4153833139 SUTTON SUZUKI Architects Distinctive Design Thoughtful Details
Wood
10 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 Local Getaways CALIFORNIA Volume 1, Issue 3 Local Getaways is published in Marin County by 270 Media LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright 2022. Reproduction of Local Getaways content is prohibited without the expressed written consent of Local Getaways magazine. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Local Getaways reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the audience or that is in questionable taste. Local Getaways is a quarterly publication and mailed directly to homes and distributed through hotels in the greater Bay Area. Local Getaways, 4000 Bridgeway Ste 105, Sausalito, CA 94965. For subscriptions go to localgetaways.com/subscribe.
“Angel from Montgomery” — perfect sing-along! “Fly Like an Eagle” by the Steve Miller Band. “About Damn Time”, by Lizzo. “Into the Great Wide Open” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers — RIP Tom! “Me and Bobby McGee” by Janis Joplin.
Towle
REM’s “It’s the End of the World as We Know It.” My friend and I learned every word on a nine hour road trip to Palm Springs. “American Girl” by Tom Petty. “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson. Jim and I sing that everytime we get back on the road! Anything by Jack Johnson! C. C. Mimi It would have to be “Texas Sun” by Khruangbin featuring Leon Bridges. “Rocket Man” by Elton John — not exactly wheels on the ground, but a great escape song.
Wood EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kasia Pawlowska ART DIRECTOR Lisa Hilgers PRODUCTION MANAGER Kiko Cheng BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Meredith Barberich MARKETING MANAGER Mikalia Wood ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Kelly Wagner SALES CONSULTANT Michele Kuhns ADMINISTRATIONOPERATIONS Nikki N. Wood CONTROLLER Wendy Miller EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Maria Finn, Spud Hilton, Robert Kaufman, Christina Mueller, Dana Rebmann, Jim Wood, Ann Wycoff CO-FOUNDERS Nikki N. Wood Nikki
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Mimi Towle PUBL IS HER Nikki
What song comes to mind when you think about road trips?
CHRISTOPHER– CLARK FINE ART 377 Geary Street San F ranciSco CLARKFINEART.COM 415.397.7781 FROM OLD MASTERS TO CONTEMPORARY DÜRER STELLA MR. BRAINWASH 246 POWELL STREET, SAN FRANCISCO 415.397.0114 ckcontemporary.com CK CONTEMPORARY JOSÉ BASSO
There was a trip to see the new Bugs exhibition at California Academy of Sciences and visits to Wine Country, where we experienced the renovated and gorgeous Louis M. Martini Winery as well as Sonoma International Film Festival’s Summerfest. We attended the Richmond/Ermet Aid Foundation gala, visited new hotels — including the exceptional Beacon Grand (formerly the Sir Francis Drake) — Stanly Ranch and cel ebrated our one year anniversary at the Top of the Mark! I cannot wait to see what else this season has in store. What I do know is that we are heading up to Wine Country (as in Napa Valley and Sonoma County) to celebrate our Getties (best of’s), and we will have more fun with local attractions, road trips, and a plethora of new dining experiences. I hope that you enjoy this issue and as always — send us your feedback — we love to hear from you!
Welcome to Fall
12 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022
The last few months have been filled with fun experiences, includ ing a road trip with my sister to San Luis Obispo where we ticked off our bucket list with a stay at the Madonna Inn. We rode horses and dined at their delicious, most-eccentric throwback restaurant (loved this quirky place). The next day we stayed at the beautiful Hotel SLO, where we were greeted by one of the friendliest staffs and stayed in their luxurious rooms before heading to Morro Bay to get an up-close look at Morro Rock.
2022! LG | PUBLISHER/EDITOR
Cheers, Nikki@localgetaways.comNikki
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Having always lived in destination locations, throughout Hawaii and California, fall means a time to regroup and finally enjoy a less-crowded version of my hometown (these days it’s Sausalito) — once the tourists have left. This summer was no excep tion. Despite record high gas prices Californians took to the roads,. According to AAA, about 4.6 mil lion of us drove to their Fourth of July destinations (as part of that number, I headed to a three-day cousin reunion in Santa Barbara).
Another study reported twelve mil lion visitors chose San Francisco as their Northern California kick off for adventure. We don’t need these stats to know we are lucky to be living in a world-class destination and that state and global travel is back — especially local travel. Depending on where you live, you also might have felt the surge of visitors. Either way, the good news is we’ve got our towns back, and our team here at Local Getaways is here to help you make the most out of every moment. Fall in the Bay Area means warmer nights, perfect for out door dining (check out rooftop restaurants on page 17) the din of Giants and A’s baseball games pouring out of local sports bars, pumpkin patches, apple picking farms and maize mazes start to pop up in our rural areas. On page 59, executive editor Kasia Pawlowska has curated three months of fun activities in our Planner — if we’ve missed one of your favorite events, let us know via email editorial@localgetaways.com or tag us on social @localgetaways. Mimi@localgetaways.comMimi PUBLISHER I’m a Midwestern girl, so when someone brings up the fact that it’s fall I think of leaves falling, Halloween approaching, turkey trots and tryptophan. Then I step foot out side my California abode, take a deep breath of Mount Tam and the Bay and new thoughts come flooding in — Indian summer, still time to go to the beach, head for a quick road trip north or south, and grab some more sunshine and outdoor goodness.
Cheers to your sense of wonder. Thursdays After Dark.Loseyourselfinmore than 600 interactive exhibits exploring perception, art, and science. Grab your friends and a drink and get immersed in mind-bending experiences and unique, thought-provoking programs. 6–10 P.M. EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT 18+ ONLY AFTER DARK EXPLORATORIUM.EDU/AFTERDARK PIER 15, SAN FRANCISCO PARTNERSCOMMUNITY
Geography. Napa is a city, a valley, and a county. Sonoma is a city and a county. Napa Valley and Sonoma County, though both world-renown wine regions, are not one and the same. Places your work has appeared. I contribute to a variety of publications including Garden & Gun, Hemispheres, Shondaland, The (London) Telegraph, AARP, Diablo, Sonoma Magazine, and others.
ROBERT KAUFMAN Writer, Let the Good Times Roll, pg. 52 When did you first fall in love with the game of golf? 1987, when I started lication,firstNorthernpublishingCalifornia’smonthlygolfpub Golf Today Favorite golf term and why? Ace — a hole-in-one produces the ultimate euphoric feeling during a round of golf and I’ve been fortunate to experience it three times! Places your work has appeared. PGA Magazine, NCGA Golf, FORE, Troon Magazine, Golf Tips, Pebble Beach Magazine, GOLF (China), The Cut (New Zealand), Great Golf (UK), and, of course, Local Getaways
14 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022
Contributors
LISA HILGERS Art Director
Coolest thing you learned while designing this issue? I loved learn ing about the history of Palm Springs and the many cultural activities to check out next time I am there. The new travel apps in were also inter esting as I am leaving for a trip abroad soon. What inspired you the most while working on this? I love working with this team and I learn about some new place to go each issue. Local Getaways always inspires me to try new Bay Area restaurants outside of Marin, and being a wan derer myself, motivates me to keep traveling! Where has your work appeared before? Marin Magazine, Parenting Magazine, Larabar, Visa, Scoma’s Sausalito, Laughing Glass Cocktails, SkinSpirit, San Domenico School and more.
SPUD HILTON MarkInterContinentalWriter,Hopkins,pg.
DANA REBMANN Writer, Farm to Fab, pg. 36 What do you love most about Wine Country? That there’s so much more to it than just wine. This stretch of Northern California boasts amaz ing food, a booming craft distillery scene, stunning coast, and towering redwoods. A havemisconceptioncommonpeopleabouttheregion?
34 Most interesting thing you learned while writing this? That railroad baron Mark Hopkins, who spent $3 million on a redwood castle on the site that eventu ally the hotel would be built on, died before he could live in it. Your first — or favorite — InterContinental Mark Hopkins memory? A dry martini, looking out over the Golden Gate and thinking about all the servicemen who had their last day of liberty before shipping out to serve in the Pacific during World War II. Places your work has appeared. Most recently, Where Traveler magazine, as well as the San Francisco Chronicle for nearly 20 years, and all the Hearst affiliate newspapers.
LouisCRAFTSMANSHIPICONICM.MartiniWineryisacornerstoneofNapa Valley, offering an internationally acclaimed portfolio of Cabernet Sauvignon. Since 1933, the Martini family has played an integral role in establishing Napa Valley as one of the world’s premier wine regions, with each successive generation helping to set new standards in the vineyard and cellar. Take a peek into the history of Martini with the new exclusive Underground Cellar Experience. Descend into a beautifully adornded 85-year-old barrel cellar that pays tribute to the Martini family’s old-world heritage and learn about the history of the winery. Featuring revered small-lot releases and library winees paired with inspired culinary creations f rom Chef Aaron Meneghelli. (707) 968-3362 254 Saint Helena Hwy S, St. Helena CA louismartini.com/visit-the-winery
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 17 ROOFTOPS | ROAD TRIP | WINE COUNTRIES | DOSE OF ALOHA | INTERVIEW HALLKEINTZ/MINMICHELLE Field Notes Newsy bits, fun facts and useful information to share at your next gathering. By Kasia Pawlowska r Kientz Hall, San Anselmo
18 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 LG | FIELD NOTES
SOUTH BAY British Bankers Club Don’t let the stuffy name dissuade you, this Menlo Park rooftop is a thorough delight. Equally great for after work drinks with co-workers or dinner with the family, the restaurant offers many inciting specials and a wide range of scotch options. britishbankersclub.com s British Bankers Club, Menlo Park Al Fresco Elevated, LiterallyBy Kasia Pawlowska
BERKELEYHALL,STUDYOFCOURTESYCLUB);BANKERS(BRITISHSTUDIOUPTONTOM
The city’s shiny new summit spot, KAIYŌ Rooftop, is located at the Hyatt Place Hotel in SoMa. The innovative food and beverage program is centered on Nikkei, a cuisine developed for over a century in Peru following the Japanese emigration to the country. In line with this, the space features Japanese lantern lampshades, as well as Peruvian textiles and natural accents. kaiyosf.com
SAN FRANCISCO KAIYŌ Rooftop
NORTH BAY Kientz Hall
This new San Anselmo addition is located in a bustling part of town right by Creek Park. A great après hike spot, Kientz Hall offers amazing views and a creative mix of fresh and appealing menu items. Try the crispy smashed potatoes with garlic labneh and a seasonal spritzer or spicy bloody Maria. kientzhall.com
The Bay Area's famed fall climate is ideal for a bounty of outdoor activities, and we’re not just talking about sports. We think you’ll love the views, movie-set vibe, and expansive intimacy of these top Bay Area rooftop spots. Here are some of our favorites — scan the code for the full list. r Study Hall, Berkeley
EAST BAY Study Hall Study Hall offers the kind of lesson plans we’re definitely interested in. Arts and cul ture? There’s live music Tuesday through Saturday (with DJs taking the helm Friday and Saturday.) Culinary? The craft cock tails and cuisine here are both tinged with Oceanic and Asian flavors. Enroll us now. studyhallrooftoplounge.com
S can here for over 50 California Road Trips including Giant Sequoias and Historical Mining Towns. In the town of Volcano, you can find the Black Chasm Cavern, which boast rare helictite crystals.
Calaveras5
Few things are as emblematic of California as the gold rush of 1849. San Francisco’s football team is named on honor of the event, but did you know that a highway is as well? State Route 49 — also known as Golden Chain Highway — passes through historic mining communities in Tuolumne, Calaveras and Amador Counties among others. Here’s a closer look at some not-to-be-missed spots.
Big Trees
2 The Gold Rush town of Columbia was once the state’s second-largest city with an estimated popula tion of 25,000 to 30,000 people. 4 Wine tasting? Yes! Grapes have been grown here for both eat ing and wine since the Gold Rush. In 1987, Sierra Foothills American Viticultural Area was established in eight counties including Tuolumne, Calaveras and Amador.
3 1 2 34 5 20 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 MAP)AND(COLUMBIAWIKICOMMONS(CALAVERAS);STOCKSAMSPICERPHOTO/ADOBEGOLD):FOR(PANISTOCK/MOUNTAINDWELLER
California Road Trip
State Park preserves two groves of giant sequoias, the world's largest trees.
GOLD country By Matt Poole Pan for gold. The discovery of gold in tiny town called Colma created a ripple effect to secure California’s place as our nation’s third-largest and most populous state. This area arguably also boasts some of the most beautiful scenic drives in the world.
1
No need to fly or drive long distances when you can enjoy a vacation in Pismo Beach. There’s miles of white sand beaches, a rich wine region only minutes away and so much more to do. Check out our Local Getaway Specials and save time and money in Pismo Beach, just a few short hours away... ExperiencePismoBeach.com Check out our Lodging Specials Online for our Best Prices! Make Pismo Beach Your Local Getaway Vacation!
linda-benenati 4 American Glamour Eternity Ring, $20,900 This lavish ring by designer Robert Procop features oval pink and blue sapphires along with round brilliant diamonds set in platinum — available at Shreve & Co. shreve.com
Objets d’art Galore
$52 , the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) invited architect Paulina Sevilla to interpret the universe of the Mexican muralist.
2 1 4 3
Lightworker Necklace and Earrings ($330) in A Lightworker is a person whose soul has incarnated to spread light and healing to the world. These earrings and necklace will remind you can be a healer for yourself and missionatelier.com Encaustic Wax $495 Artist Linda Benenati considers encaustic mixed media painting her all-time favorite medium with its vibrancy and versatility. Inspired by the art masters, the 1920s and ‘30s and anything French, these charming narratives are a delight for your walls.
PROMOTION
Museum-worthy pieces can be found outside of museum walls. From rings — both ornate and rich with meaning — to carry-alls, art truly surrounds us.
Designed by La Cartera del Cartero, illustrated museumstore.sfmoma.org
SCP Seven4One is an intimate eco-boutique property with 12 airy bright rooms styled in Scandiaboho-meets-Zen design, an outdoor courtyard with a fireplace, stun ning reclaimed wood, swinging hammock chairs, and a living green wall. Two suites with kitchenettes offer dreamy sea views, as does the second story deck where loungers await for relaxing in the sun and salt breeze. The stylish property is ideal for buyouts, yoga retreats or multi-gen family gatherings. SCP Seven4One guests have access to the amenities at sister property Laguna Riviera. The historic 1948 property has joined the Soul Com munity Planet (SCP) Hotels fam ily and offers a glimpse of classic Laguna Beach culture, right on the beach. Laguna Riviera's pool and full-service beach attendants await guests from both hotels.
LOCAL FAVORITES
You will also find a wealth of good eats within walking distance of the hotels. Head to Active Culture and try their delicious vegetableforward menu. Noodle fans can meander over to Gu Ramen for authentic fare, craft brews and Japanese tapas like spicy poke. Early risers will appreciate the nearby Laguna Coffee Co, a buzzing locals hangout and go-to spot for brews and breakfast.
PROMOTION FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 23
Conscious travelers will appreciate SCP Hotels' goals to achieve Net Zero Waste by the end of the year. This means green energy, ecofriendly building materials, water bottle refill stations and no singleuse plastic. You'll also rest easy knowing your getaway has created a positive impact through the Every Stay Does Good program. Each and every stay booked at Laguna Riv iera and SCP Seven4One provides mental health resources to adoles cents, lights the home of a family in need for 24 hours and plants a tree in an unnaturally deforested area. For those looking for an intentional getaway that’s good for Soul, Com munity and Planet — we’ll see you at SCP Hotels. Visit scphotel.com to plan your getaway.
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 23 PROMOTION
MAYBE IT’S THE GOLDEN CRESCENTS of sand and crystal coves, or the dynamic culinary scene and world-famous artist community. Or perhaps it’s the friendly locals and fiery sunsets over the Pacific; the cresting dolphins and spouting whales; the sea caves and tide pools; the starry nights and twinkling Riviera feel. Exploring this coastal gem, you’ll discover that Laguna has all the right ingredients for a magi cal escape. It’s a perfect blend of laid back surf culture and urban so phistication — whether you want to charge some waves and hang at the beach or stroll the art galleries. You can relax and recharge or rev it up. The choice is yours. And while the weather is spectacular year-round, it’s after the summer rush that you can experience Laguna like a local when the crowds have dissipated, but the beauty remains.
Soul, Community + Planet: SCP Hotels tap into best of coastal Laguna Beach
WELCOME TO SCP SEVEN4ONE + LAGUNA RIVIERA
HOLISTIC HOSPITALITY
DON’T MISS LAGUNA’S HIP DISTRICT Both hotels are in walk ing distance to downtown and Laguna’s HIP District (Historic and Interesting Places), a stretch along Pacific Coast Highway where you can check out vinyl records at Sound Spectrum, berry-laced mojitos at the Rooftop Bar at La Casa del Camino (an old Hollywood hangout), a gourmet chocolate shop, a friendly book store, boutique shopping and more.
WINERYROBLESPASOOFCOURTESYBURROWS;JAYME CALIFORNIA
1 case of wine: 30 pounds of grapes (468 ounces) 307.2 ounces of wine 12 bottles of wine 60 glasses of wine 1 barrel of wine: 740 pounds of grapes 59 gallons of wine 24.6 cases of wine 295 bottles of wine 1,475 glasses of wine 1 bottle of wine: 2.4 pounds of grapes (39 ounces) 5 glasses of wine
By Mimi Towle
Oldest winery: Turley Wine Cellars, 1854. Number of wineries: Over 250, plus about 150 tasting rooms. Vineyard acres: 41,000. Rising stars: Royal Nonesuch Farm, Thacher Winery, Hubba Wines, Caelesta, Copia Vineyards and Winery. Varietals: Fifty percent of what is grown is Cabernet Sauvignon. However, the Rhone varieties tend to get the most acclaim. AVAs: 11, including: Adelaida District, Creston District, and El Pomar District. Most famous family-run vineyards: DAOU Family Estates, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Tablas Creek Vineyard and Castoro Cellars.
PASO ROBLES
THREE
Did you know that California produced 84% of the wine consumed in the United States in 2022? For the most part when people think of Wine Country, Napa and Sonoma come to mind. However, there are many more gold medal-winning wine producing regions within our Golden State. We selected these three to feature, because not only is their wine divine — they also have great hotels, restaurants and activities in the vicinity.
1 acre of grapes: 3,958 bottles of wine 15,940 glasses of wine
MONTEREY Oldest winery: Chalone, 1919. Number of wineries: 72, plus 64 tasting rooms. Vineyard acres: 41,000. Rising stars: Caraccioli Cellars, I. Brand & Family, Lepe Cellars, Joyce Wines, Albatross Ridge, Odonata, Rustique, Seabold, Sling & Stone. Varietals: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are the most popular, however, due to the microclimates, there are 52 varietals in this region including Syrah, Grenache, Albariño, Sauvignon Blanc as well as Gamay Noir. AVAs: 9, including: Santa Lucia Highlands, Arroyo Seco, and either Chalone or Carmel Valley. Most famous family-run vineyards: Garys’ Vineyard, Pisoni Vineyard.
MENDOCINO Oldest winery: Parducci Wine Cellars, 1932. Number of wineries: 108. Vineyard acres: 17,470 acres. Rising stars: Murder Ridge, Wentworth Vineyards, Masút Vineyard and Winery. Varietals: Pinot Noir, Cabernet Zinfandel,Sauvignon,Merlotand Syrah, Chardonnay and Sauvingon Blanc. AVAs: 12, RidgeAndersonincluding:Valley,MendocinoandEaglePeak.
Most famous familyrun vineyards: Navarro Vineyards, Husch Vineyards, Handley Cellars, Graziano Family of Wines, Brutocao Cellars.
Wine Regions to Explore
24 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022
LG | FIELD NOTES
Your vacation starts with premium accommodations. 1 (808) KBHMAUI.com661-0011
name
we call a rose, By any
names don’t really matter — they do. And because names
Hawaii,
smell as sweet.” Well, unless we are Juliet
to
our star-crossed lover
matter to the people
“That which other would trying convince that do of regardless of there is a movement
What's in a Name? STOCKMNSTUDIO/ADOBE
ancestry,
to bring back original Hawaiian names to popular attractions. Here’s a list of a few to keep in mind for the next time you visit. By Mimi Towle LG | FIELD NOTES Kauai Current Original MenehuneFishPond Alekoko Na Pali Nāpali ShipwreckBeach Keoneloa Maui Current Original La Perouse Keone‘ō‘io Cliff House in Kapalua Hawea Kapalua Honokahua Wailea Honua‘ula Dragon’sTeeth Makaluapuna “BigStateMakenaParkBeach” Oneloa Jawsbreaksurf Pe‘ahi SevenPoolsSacred Ohe‘o Oahu Current Original North Shore andKo‘olauloaWaialua DiamondHead Lē‘ahi Chinaman’sHat Mokoli‘i Pearl Harbor Pu‘uloa Sunset Beach Paumalū Hawaii Island Current Original The Big Island Hawaii City Refugeof Pu‘uhonuaHōnaunauO Rainbow Falls Waiānuenue LavaThurstonTube Nāhuku
Voyager 47 Club Lounge A CONTEMPORARY BEACHFRONT RETREAT ROOTED IN HAWAIIAN CULTURE. Experience Waikı kı as it should be. Discover the fully reimagined Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort. This iconic place of healing and renewal is complemented by the latest amenities, a focus on wellness, unmatched hospitality and authentic guest experiences that honor its voyaging legacy. HAWAI‘I FIJI MAURITIUS THAILAND MALDIVES I Outrigger.com
Save the Monarchs
The remarkable butterflies undertake the longest migration of any insect spe cies known to science, flying from the mountains of central Mexico up to southern Canada then begin the trip back to Mexico at the end of summer. The major culprits behind their demise? Loss of habitat, increased use of herbicides and pes ticides, and climate change. There are ways to help — here are some below. K.P.
Apps, they’ve come a long way since the one that measured how high and fast you could throw your iPhone in the air — it was called HangTime. Today we have an abundance of actually useful apps, making the decision to download or purchase them crippling at times. Here’s a batch that will only enhance your future journeys. K.P.
(MONARCH)STOCKADOBE/THAWATSMILKWEEK);ON(MONARCHSTOCKADOBE/MARIDAV
The Dyrt Looking for your perfect campsite? Search over 44,000 in the United States with the help of the Dyrt. Clocking in at about 1 mil lion registered members, this app provides users with key features — whether places are dog-friendly or allow fires — and offers a bounty or reviews, photos and maps. The free version includes all U.S., sitesLandParks,NationalmeaningandStateBureauofManagementandmore. thedyrt.com
Transit Ever find yourself in a new city tak ing the right train the wrong way? Say bye to those days with Transit. The app works in over 175 metro politan areas around the world and provides real-time public transit data, meaning you can not only track your bus, but see how full it is thanks to current riders. It also shows you ride-hailing apps including Uber and Lyft, as well as bike-sharing options along with price estimates. transitapp.com
As of late July, the iconic orange-and-black monarch butterfly is a step closer to extinction, earning a non-coveted spot on the endangered list. It’s estimated that populations in North America declined between 22% and 72% over 10 years, depending on the measurement method.
28 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 LG | FIELD NOTES
PackPoint Instead of packing that new top you’ll never wear for an upcoming trip, make the most of your suitcase space and don’t miss anything crucial with PackPoint. This free packing list organizer helps you decide what you need based not only on your destina tion, but the activities you plan on doing and the weather. Easily share your packing list with fellow travelers — PackPoint cre ates a website for it — so everyone’s on the same, organized page. packpnt.com
Travel Tech Plant Native Milkweed It is the only plant mon arch larvae eat, and the only plant the monarch will lay its eggs in. Buy FSC Certified Wood Illegal logging in Mexico reduces the amount of trees that monarchs rely on as a winter habitat, protect them as well. Create a WaystationMonarch These patches of habitat provide resources for monarchs to produce successive genera tions and sustain their migration.
California Missions
California’s mission era began in 1769 with the first mission in San Diego and ended in 1823 when Sonoma was completed, but thanks to rebuilding efforts, you can still see the architectural legacy of Father Junípero Serra’s and, subsequently, Father Fermín de Lasuén’s vision for California. All 21 missions are open and we've done a deep dive on all of them. For useful visi tor info like where to stay and what to eat nearby, plus things to do, scan the QR code. Here are some other fun facts about these historic places.
• Choose a variety of foods for your meal — seaweed salad, avo cado/cucumber rolls, tempura experience.andtonoodlesbuckwheatvegetables,sobaandmisosouproundoutadiversesensorysushi
r Mission Santa Barbara
• Farmed shellfish like scallops, clams, mussels and oysters are beyond regenerativesustainable,seafoods.
Here are some tips for ordering:
• Uni, particularly from purple sea urchins, is a great way to go.
• Ask if the salmon is farmed or wild. If it’s farmed, see if there’s a better alternative like Arctic char that’s wild or farmed in a more sustainable way.
• Hamachi or yellow tail — particularly wild — is a safe bet.
CONGRESSOFLIBRARYBARBARASANTA(SUSHI);DURRAN/UNSPLASHDEREK
FEEL ABOUTGOODYOUR FISH
30 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 LG | FIELD NOTES
The colorful history behind these architectural gems. By Christina Mueller
By Maria Finn
There are sustainably-farmed finfish like Arctic char, some trout, and good choices for wild-caught fish. Ask your server and sushi chef questions so they know you care about their choices.
Mexican General Mariano Vallejo used San Francisco Solano de Sonoma as a northern outpost to protect Mexico’s ter ritory from Russian fur traders, while also establishing peaceful relations with the Native Americans of the region.
• Download Seafood Watch’s Sushi guide.
• Eat the smallest tuna — instead of bluefin or yellowfin, ask for alba core or skipjack tuna.
• Crab, light.domestic,particularlygetsagreen
A gift from King Carlos IV of Spain, Santa Clara’s mission bell has rung faith fully every evening since 1798. The first pepper trees in Alta California were planted here using seeds brought to San Luis Rey in 1830 by a sailor from Peru.Even though most missions are approximately 30 miles apart, it is 60 high way miles from Mission San Fernando Rey and Mission San Buenaventura.
LG | FIELD NOTES
The pescatarian island of Japan relishes seafood and turned eating raw fish into an art form. As sushi exploded worldwide into a wildly popular sensation, the nuances of raw fish as a part of a larger meal and a sense of sushi on special occasions were left behind. The plummeting population of the bluefin tuna — only 4% of this apex species still exists in the ocean — is largely due to demand from sushi restaurants around the world. Unagi, another sushi bar favorite, is critically endangered and may soon be extinct. If you order salmon in a sushi restaurant, it’s most likely “Atlantic” farmed salmon. These have been introduced from foreign bodies of water, crowded into open net pens and dosed with antibiotics due to the crowding. So what does a person who loves sushi and the ocean do?
Sushi:Sustainable
• Salmon roe, or ikura is a delight and more sustainable than farmed salmon.
• Ask where the shrimp came from — U.S. fisheries have much higher sustain ability standards. If it’s wild caught with a pot, like spot prawns or coon striped shrimp, it’s not only more sustainable, but far more delicious.
• Rich, delicious black cod is a great replace ment for unagi.
• Saba, or marinated mackerel, is delicious and guilt-free.
The Mark’s charm is that it’s never been just about the celebrities and wealthier guests. Its features have served as a way for anyone to experience the luxe life, past and present. Even if only for an evening.
BY SPUD HILTON
PROMOTION
In 1939, when Mark Hopkins Hotel owner George D. Smith converted the penthouse of the Nob Hill property into a cocktail lounge, he was so skeptical that anyone would bother to ride an elevator for 19 floors “just for a drink and a view” that he installed a dance floor and hired a band. Within a week, the dance floor was covered to make room for throngs who waited hours to ride up to what became known as the Top of Mark.
32 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022
Mark Hopkins: Celebrating the history while embracing the future.
While the San Francisco skyline that The Mark over looks has changed dramatically over the past 100 years, the vantage point is unchanged and as popular as in the days when the hotel hosted its share of notable guests, including U.S. Presidents, world leaders, international royalty, and stage and silver screen celebrities.
During the second half of the 20th century, portions of The Mark Hopkins have undergone a dozen major reno vations and restorations. Among the offerings that are unlikely to change is the “squadron bottle” at The Top of theDuringMark.
IT TURNS OUT THAT ONE OF THE MOST famous icons of San Francisco’s storied history almost never happened.
The Peacock Court, one of the hotel’s two legendary ballrooms, regularly hosted dance-band greats as well as top supper club entertainers. The other ballroom, the historical Room of the Dons, offered its own brand of celebrities: nine magnificent 7-foot-high murals painted by celebrated Western artists Frank Van Sloun and Maynard Dixon that depict California’s history, from before European settlement through the arrival of the westward expansion pioneers.
the Second World War, the club was a popular spot for Pacific-bound servicemen. When they returned, some would ask the bartender for their unit’s squadron bottle: Once the serviceman signed his name on the label, he could drink from the bottle for free. The catch: who ever took the last drink had to replace the bottle.
Besides Equator, what else should people expe rience when visiting Culver City? Culver City has a thriving dining scene along with a growing art and design district, theaters and studio lots, as well as boutique hotels, quirky museums and cool neighborhoods. I love it because I can feel the history of a town that was founded in 1917 and became the epicenter for movie making. Now the streets are teeming with young professionals and families. What was an unexpected positive effect of the pandemic on your business? The pandemic forced us to re-focus on our culture, our team and our responsibility as leaders for our people and our community. Our team
As you have expanded south, what attracted you to Culver City? Culver City is such a creative part of L.A. There's so much happening and you feel it in the vibe of the neighborhood. It's so exciting to be in proximity to numerous tech and entertainment studios, including NPR, Apple, Amazon Studios and Sony Picture Studios. There are TV shows and movies being created and produced all around us. It's such a thriving and cultural hub.
PHOTOGRAPHYFONGNATE
Equator Coffees was among the first coffee roasters to purchase coffee through the fair trade system (they visit the coffee farms) and in 2011, they became a certified B Corp. Today with an internationally recognized name (and logo), nine outlets in the Bay Area, and now expand ing to Southern California, this trifecta has weathered ups and downs, including the pandemic where fifty per cent of their business — wholesale business to companies like Google, Twitter, Slack — went away. Considering their recent expansion to Los Angeles, we figured, now would be a good time to shine the light on this dynamic team, via founder, and spokesperson, Helen Russell. Oh and the name? The actual equator has two long har vest seasons, and at 3,000-6,000 feet elevation is the ideal place to grow the Arabica coffee bean. It’s that simple.
Helen Russell
You started Equator in Marin, do you think this helped in any way? If so, how? I think it's helpful to be a part of the community you are doing business in — people love to see owners at their local stores. Marin consumers are educated, sophisticated and rightly have high expectations. We appreciate that about them.
Helen Russell Equator Coffees, a Bay Area beacon of goodness, has had quite a year. By Mimi Towle
34 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 LG | FIELD NOTES
THERE’S A LOT OF GREENWASHING THESE DAYS, even in the progressive, forward-thinking, “live your truth” Bay Area. One company, however, has done it right. And if you see the slick red Bengal tiger sticker on a bum per or Yeti, you know the core values of that car or cooler owner. In other words, if you can vote with your dollar for ethical treatment of workers, sustainable business prac tices and the success of LGBTQIA businesses, Equator Coffees is your brand. The idea for a sustainable, fair and ethical company started well before it was mainstream.
Back in 1993, life and business partners, Helen Russell and Brooke McDonnell started operating two espresso carts in San Francisco. Immediately, Brooke wanted to know where the coffee beans were sourced, and whether the family farms got a fair price, etc. With an uncompro mising eye towards fair practice, Brooke handled product, while Helen handled the people and business. The miss ing piece to their business, was process — enter Maureen McHugh, a childhood friend from back East.
Brooke and I have lived in Marin since the early ‘90s — we see our friends and neighbors at our cafes, and have made friends over many cups of coffee and our shared love of community.
r
Tell us about 1951 Coffee Company. We are huge fans. They are a non-profit specialty coffee organization located in Berkeley that promotes the well being of the refugee community in Northern California. They offer a barista training program for refugees and asylees. They teach the hard skills of coffee preparation and cash handling as well as soft skills like customer service con versation. They've proven that by offering coaching in a classroom environment they are able to set up their graduates for success in cafes. We do a lot of our train ing live on the floor of our cafe, which is challenging for English learners or people who have not yet had a "typi cal" American job.
r Larkspur location
Have you hired any grads? We love the mission of this company and it's been a great way to add to our workforce. We've made a few hires over the years from them — this is a population I'm personally passionate about supporting. Moving to a new country must be such overwhelming experience, it's up to us as Americans to make sure new Americans feel welcome and to sup port them however we can. Coffee is such an incredible industry, because so many careers can be launched from getting that first barista job. Most of our department heads and managers have been baristas, from our green buyers to accountants. Being a barista was even my first job in the coffee industry! The sky is really the limit in coffee, and sometimes all people need is support with their first step.
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 35 members here in California and our coffee farm partners. We did everything we could to keep our teams safe and employed, and worked hard to keep our green coffee con tracts intact. The pandemic also forced us to diversify and focus on our direct-to-consumer business. Of course we have a website and offered subscriptions pre-pandemic, but it was a small part of our business. With everyone shifting from drinking coffee in their offices to enjoying it at home, we had to get creative in how we reached people. We now have a robust subscription program and growing grocery business. Was there someone on your team, who thought, “Hey, we could offer instant coffee, too!” One of the first innovators of specialty instant coffee was a com pany called Sudden, which was based here in the Bay Area for several years before they unfortunately went out of business. We quickly saw that they were doing something special, and were eager to roll out our own instant coffee — we were one of their first co-packing clients. I was very excited to have a vial of their coffee that I could keep in the back pocket of my cycling jersey. Now anywhere I went in the world I could have a great cup of coffee, I just needed water. My travel bags are filled with our instant coffee. Biggest challenge resulting from the pandemic? When tech company employees started working from home we lost 35% of our top line revenue overnight. All of the sudden it was 2010 all over again in terms of our revenues. We immediately decided to close our stores for two weeks to assess all of our procedures to make sure our employees and customers were safe. Fortunately, we were testing our online ordering app right when the pandemic hit so we re-opened with the app, which saved the day. At the end of this year we will be back to pre pan demic revenues. Essentially we lost two years, we are so grateful that we are still here and for the customers who supported and trusted us. What has been the hardest ethical part of your business to maintain? The biggest thing for me has been seeing the waste generated in our cafes and via online orders going up. We were on track to roll out reusable cup sharing right before the pandemic pushed everything into paper, and it is much more packaging to ship individual bags of coffee to individual houses rather than supply an office with coffee. Here, too, we feel we made the best decisions we could by using recycled and compostable options, but culturally it feels like ground was lost in the fight to end one-time use items.
PHOTOGRAPHYROSENJORDAN
These six new properties cement Wine Country’s farm
ultra-luxe status. to fab BY DANA REBMANN
IT’S NO SECRET, IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO INDULGE and pamper yourself, Northern California wine country offers the ultimate blend. With vineyardlined hillsides, towering redwoods, rugged stretches of coast, Michelin-starred restaurants, and calminducing spas, if you’re dreaming of a getaway and wondering where to begin, the answer is simple. In Napa and Sonoma Wine Country, a hotel room is much more than simply a place to sleep. Though long-known for posh properties with superlative amenities and top-notch service, there’s been an explosion of new and renewed hotels and resorts that are by most folks’ definition, destinations in their own right. Want to cozy up in a Victorian charmer? Sleep in the middle of a vineyard, or linger in the shade of the tallest living things on Earth? It’s as easy as putting a trip to Wine Country on the calendar.
38 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022
1 Four Seasons Resorts and Residences Napa Valley Napa Valley’s first and only resort set within a working winery means there’s arguably no better place to be during harvest. Located in the once-over looked city of Calistoga, the property’s 85 rooms are set in the midst of Elusa Winery’s nearly 5-acre organic vineyard. (There’s also 20 private resi dences that sold out before the resort opened.) If you’re craving a close-up view of the wine-making world, you can do it here while lounging in the sun on your guestroom balcony. A private tasting at Elusa is a must, along with a treatment at Spa Talisa, and time to simply enjoy the quiet at the adults-only Serenity Pool and hot tub. Campo Poolside’s churros with both chocolate and caramel sauce pro vide an indulgent afternoon sugar rush. If you’re pondering a Wine Country adventure with kids in tow, along with a family pool, the Four Seasons is also the only resort in Napa Valley that offers daily programming for chil dren. 400 Silverado Trail, Calistoga, 707.709.2100, fourseasons.com/ napavalley
VALLEYNAPARESIDENCES,ANDRESORTSSEASONFOUROFCOURTESYSPREAD:PREVIOUSANDPAGETHIS
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 39
Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection Set on more than 700 acres of roll ing vineyards and farmland south of downtown Napa, Stanly Ranch marks the third Napa Valley property for the Auberge Resorts Collection. 135 airy, single-story, cottage-like guestrooms dot the landscape, and soon a collection of Vineyard Homes and Villas will be up for Surroundedgrabs. by stretches of fragrant lavender, the main pool and neighboring kid-friendly pool with beach-style entry are stun ners, but competition from the adults-only Halehouse spa pool is fierce. A dedicated wellness hub, along with expected treatments like facials and massages, the spa at Stanly Ranch boasts a plethora of high-tech offerings including a hyperbaric oxygen chamber, salt room, cold plunge, and tepidarium.Bear,the property’s signa ture restaurant, creates rotating seasonal dishes with ingredients plucked from a thriving chef’s garden. Reserve a spot on the patio and anticipate dishes the likes of flat iron steak with grilled fennel, arugula and chimichurri, and salmon crudo with yogurt, yuzu kosho, green apple, trout roe and dill. 200 Stanly Crossroad, Napa, 866.421.5122, aubergeresorts.com/stanlyranch
2 FOOD)AND(EXTERIORWOLFINGERERIC
40 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022
(STAVRAND)MORRISK.EMMA(MONTAGE);PHOTOGRAPHYHORANCHRISTIAN
Montage Healdsburg When the 258-acre retreat opened to travelers in 2021, it was just the beginning of a long-awaited surge of new luxury properties in Sonoma County focused on helping guests live their best life. Along with 130-bungalow-style guestrooms, the Montage features a spa, pickleball courts, archery, bocce ball, bee apiary, and zero-edge pool overlooking the resort’s vineyards — which are tended to by rock star winemaker Jesse Katz. If schedules align, guests have the exclusive opportunity to join Katz for tastings at his nearby winery, Aperture Cellars.
Single-family Harvest Homes at Montage Healdsburg come with picturesque views and access to resort amenities. 100 Montage Way, Healdsburg, 707.979.9000, montagehotels.com/healdsburg
3
4
The Stavrand Russian River Valley Once a sleepy river retreat surrounded by towering red wood trees, the opening of The Stavrand Russian River Valley, inked Guerneville’s place on the map as a Wine Country hotspot. One of 100 hotel prop erties to make Travel + Leisure magazine’s 2022 coveted “It List,” new owners spent more than a year transforming the historic 21-room property that’s fondly known by locals as the Applewood Inn and Spa, its previous name.
Set on nearly six acres, the century-old Belden House boasts a light and airy sunroom that almost feels like a tree house thanks to the lineup of windows that provide a bird’seye view into the canopy of surrounding redwoods. Foggy days instill feelings of delight here, when curled up next to the enormous two-sided stone fireplace, but on warm, sum mer days you’ll want to grab a complimentary kayak or inner tube and splash around on the nearby Russian River. Only open to guests, be sure to reserve a spot for dinner at The Stavrand’s restaurant. The ever-changing menu focuses on local, seasonal ingredients, and the bounty found in property’s fruit orchard and culinary garden. Breakfast, is included, and something you’ll be dream ing about later. 13555 Highway 116, Guerneville, 707.869.9093, thestavrand.com
5
Dry Creek Valley, The Madrona features 24 accommodations spread amongst a half-dozen buildings. In addition to vineyards views, there’s a heated pool, an orange orchard that’s hard to resist strolling through, and large swathes of green grass worthy of throwing down a blanket and stretching out in the sunshine.
RANCH)(DAWNSTUDIOCEOGREG(MADRONA);MILLMANMATHHEW
The Madrona’s rural setting makes you feel as though you’re hidden away on country estate, but in reality Healdsburg’s bustling downtown is just a tad more than a mileChefaway.Jesse Mallgren, who earned the property’s former restaurant a Michelin star every year for 13 consecutive years, is back at it serving a few signature dishes alongside new mouthwatering creations influenced by what’s peak ing in the estate’s half-acre garden. 1001 Westside Road, Healdsburg, 707.395.6700, themadronahotel.com
42 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022
The Madrona Shuttered for more than a year, The Madrona’s Victorian character and quintessential California charm is wow ing guests like never before. Formerly known as Madrona Manor, the new boutique hotel in Healdsburg was originally built in 1881 as a private residence. Placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987, renowned interior designer Jay Jeffers gave the 19th century grand dame estate a glam up that no other could imagine, mixing modern art and brightly colored walls with furniture and antiques origi nal to the estate. Some pieces are believed to be nearly 200 yearsOverlookingold.
The Guerneville resort features 53 snug and cozy cabins scattered amongst towering red woods, quivering bamboo, and a more than a century old apple orchard. Wander the kitchen garden, a favorite of colorful butterflies, or take the trail to the river. You might meet a deer on the way. 16467 California 116, Guerneville, 707.869.0656, dawnranch.com
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 43
6
Dawn Ranch Stretching 15 acres along the banks of the Russian River, Dawn Ranch has been welcom ing guests since 1905. Until its recent redo and reopening, you could only stay here if you were lucky enough to be invited to a wedding or a grand corporate retreat.
By Kasia Pawlowska, Mimi Towle, Ann Wycoff P.S. WE LOVE YOU: Why do we love this Mid-century haven?
r On the Rocks vacation rental
STOCKADOBE/PHISHALELIZABETH
CULTURE + ADVENTURE CABAZON DINOSAURS
LONG BEFORE COACHELLA (VALLEY MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL) and the influx of Bay Area tech employees fleeing to drier pastures, Palm Springs was already an established escape, a sun-soaked oasis with other-worldly windmills, hidden hot springs, snow-draped peaks, flower-trimmed fairways and 1950s finger-snapping cool. Here, old Hollywood glam meets Mid-century modernism and the ghosts of the Rat Pack linger in the red boothed piano bars and iconic movie star homes. There’s something for everybody — Pride parties and pool time, music, motorcycle and film festivals, along with incredible art and adventures in the des ert. Not to mention, Palm Springs is home to arguably the most pleasant airport on the planet. So grab a hat, a hardback, your favorite swimsuit and clubs, and head to this sunshine sanctuary.
46 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022
Love Dates?
Back in the 1890s, the thenpresident of Southern Pacific Railroad, C.P. Huntington, brought back a few date shoots from a vacation in Algeria. Botanist Pat Gale planted them in the arid soil and today Palm Springs, nearby Indio, and the sur rounding agricultural area produces 95% of the dates in the United States.
After grabbing a date shake at Hadley’s Fruit Market, continue cruising east on the 10 freeway towards Palm Springs. You can’t miss the giant Cabazon Dinosaurs — a kitschy roadside attraction that’s fun for the kids. Mr. Rex, Dinny and 50 more gargantuans provided endless photo opps and Instagram favorites. Young ones can do the dinosaur dig and fossil panning or climb inside the 150-foot Brontosaurus — or poten tially Apatosaurus — for free which naturally leads to the gift shop. cabazondinosaurs.com GOLFING From the air, the Coachella Valley resembles a jigsaw puzzle consisting of more than 2,000 grassy configu rations. Put them all together and that number represents the stagger ing sum of fairways and greens in this California desert playground where the sun shines all day. Picking a favorite is nearly impossible, but with its 6,706-yard layout set among beautiful rolling hills and spectacu lar sights of the surrounding desert r Cabazon Dinosaurs
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 47
BetweenHistory martinis poolside, verdant green golf courses and lucrative tribal water rights, this arid-high des ert hideaway — a.k.a. Palm Springs — has always been a popular destination despite the lack of accessible water. Before Hollywood celebs drove 100 miles east to get some R&R and dodge the pry ing eyes of gossip columnists, this particular plot of the Sonoran Desert at the base of the San Jacinto mountains was a tumbleweed-laden expanse with a reputation for healing. The Cahuilla people called their homeland Se-Khi, mean ing boiling water — later the Spanish explorers referred to this stop along their journey (of conquests) La Palma de la Mano de Dios , meaning Palm of God’s Hand. In 1876 the U.S. government established the Agua Caliente Reservation, again a reference to the hot springs, which is over 31,128 acres in a check erboard format of alternating sections of 640 acres. Some land went to the Southern Pacific Railroad and some to Agua Caliente tribe, securing very valuable water rights. Then came the hotels. The first couple that opened were Dr. Welwood Murray’s Palm Springs Hotel in 1901, and Nellie Coffman’s The Desert Inn in 1909. In 1926, La Quinta Resort was built, espousing the benefits of the area like its predecessors, and the rest is hospitality history.
STOCKADOBE/DELIMONTCOLLINS/DANITAANN
LIVING DESERT ZOO AND GARDENS
This Dr. Seussian National Park, known for its bristled twisted trees, giant boulders and desolate land scapes, may have been put on the map by U2’s famed album, but rock climbers, star gazers and adven turers have long known about the park’s wealth of beauty and solace. You can hike, bike or camp, explore cactus gardens, wander through the wildflowers, catch the Perseid Meteor Showers in all their glory, grab your binocs for birding or tackle one of the 8,000 rock climb ing routes through this magical 800,000-acre park. nps.gov/jotr
This gorgeous zoo, tucked in a can yon, is a perfect afternoon adventure s Joshua Tree
SPRINGSPALM mountains, and the Pete Dye Resort Course located at Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort and Spa is a must. In fact, it’s been described by some as “potentially diabolical, yet indescribably playable.” westinranchomiragegolf.com
JOSHUA TREE
48 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 where you can mingle with butterflies, ride a camel, meet the meerkats, or feed a giraffe during the daily feedings. During the holiday season a daz zling display of lights, music and holiday cheer enlivens the park during WildLights. livingdesert.org
BOTANICALMOORTEN GARDEN If pioneer relics, crys tals and rare plants are of interest to you, then a stop here is essential. Established by Patricia and Chester "Cactus Slim" Moorten in 1938, the property is now a living museum that features the world’s first cactarium — a term the couple invented — as well as plants from Baja California and as far south as Guatemala. Stop by the Cactus Castle, the Moorten’s Mediterranean style home, and grab a spiky memento from the nursery on your way out. moortenbotanicalgarden.com
PIONEERTOWN Established in 1946 as a “living breath ing movie set,” Pioneertown filled the screens of 50 western films and serials during the '40s and '50s with legends like Gene Autry and Smiley Burnette in the saddle. You can still hitch your horse in this desert town, 30 minutes out side of Palm Springs, and explore the old bowling alley and mer cantile shop. You may even catch the occa sional gunfight on Mane Street (not a typo). Most importantly don’t miss the barbecue and live music at local eatery Pappy and Harriet’s where rock stars often drop in for surprise sets. Think Lucinda Williams or Jakob Dylan to name a few. visitpioneertown.com
The Palm Springs Art Museum boasts two museums in downtown Palm Springs and a sculpture garden in Palm Desert. The main cam pus houses the famed Annenberg Theater, while the E. Stewart Williams-designed Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center – Edwards Harris Pavilion is now devoted to just that. The Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture Garden dis plays the works of modern masters within four acres of landscaped desert teeming with water features, native plants, and winding walk ways. psmuseum.org
TAHQUITZ CANYON
PALM SPRINGS ART MUSEUM
GERBERLANCE
PALM SPRINGS AERIAL TRAM Tick some superlatives off your list and head to Mt. San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area via the Palm Springs Aerial Tram, the world’s largest rotating tram car. The tram cars rotate slowly over the course of ten minutes, providing eyepopping sights with every turn. At the top, it is 30 degrees cooler than the desert floor, meaning you can have a snowball fight in April while the masses bake below. Considered a sky island as it contains plants and animals that couldn’t survive valley temps, visitors can find numerous forests of Ponderosa, Jeffrey and Lodgepole pines, and even a grove of giant sequoia trees. pstramway.com
Located within the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Reservation, the rugged, palmflanked Tahquitz Canyon ends with a dramatic 60-foot waterfall, and is among the most culturally signifi cant sites in the area. The legend of this canyon’s namesake, Tahquitz, says that he was the first shaman created by Mukat, the creator of all things. Like many with power, Tahquitz used his power for good early on, but grew selfish over time and started to harm the Cahuilla People, who banished him to the canyon that now bears his name. It is said that rumblings within the mountain and green fireballs streaking across the night sky are his spirit living on. Stop at the visitor center at the entrance of the canyon to take in views from the observation deck and to see ancient artifacts. tahquitzcanyon.com r Palm Springs Art Museum
s Ace Hotel and Swim Club
WHERE TO STAY - HOTELS ACE HOTEL & SWIM CLUB
Often dubbed a hipster den, this 179-room hotel was formerly a Westward Ho with a Denny’s attached to it. While it’s centrally located with plenty of restaurants and attractions like Tahquitz Canyon and the aerial tram nearby, the on-site spa, restaurant and bar, two big pools — one with a DJ inside an old school bus playing lush day time disco — this is just as easily a place you never really have to leave. Dog-friendly with a glamorous Sahara, bohemian-vibe, the rooms feels like being inside an air-con ditioned luxury Sibley tent. But no two are exactly alike. Some have a garden patio or a fireplace, others have record players, all have vintage furniture and original artwork cre ated by local artists. acehotel.com
AZURE SKY Palm Springs’ newest boutique hotel is a sexy 14-room charmer with scenesZenMid-century-modern-design-meets-itsaestheticandmyriadlounge-yfromthefirelitlivingroom lobby to the hammock-dotted patios. Palm trees and tres chic black-andwhite umbrellas line the kid-free pool at this adults only retreat. Unobstructed views of the San Jacinto Mountains serve as a medi tative backdrop when hanging out in “the meadow” by the firepit in the company of olive trees. And when you are ready to leave, the action of Palm Springs is an easy stroll away. azureskyhotel.com
HOTELACEOFCOURTESY
When Los Angeles architectural designer Steve Hermann revamped the 1952 William Cody bungalow property, L’Horizon, it became the must-stay getaway. Now he’s opened the Hermann Bungalows, 25 ultraluxury modern bungalows (a hotel within a hotel), so guests can choose between the nostalgia of the 1950s or the sleek elegance of his forwardthinking bungalow design. Guests enjoy private patios, outdoor show ers, custom designed furniture, fluted walnut walls, Frette and more. stevehermann.com HOMES TO RENT ON THE ROCKS In the historic Mesa neighborhood, the stunning Hugh Kaptur-designed On the Rocks house sits high on the hill overlooking Palm Springs. Beloved by A-list celebrities and return guests alike, the home is a perfect example of organic archi tecture, featuring an open concept layout and endless views soaked in through floor-to-ceiling windows, or from the custom saline infinity pool. ps-ontherocks.com SINATRA HOUSE
LA QUINTA RESORT AND SPA
The town of La Quinta was named after the resort, which was estab lished in 1926. A few indications of the good ol’ days remain such as irregular roof tiles on the original casitas which were shaped over the legs of Mexican tile makers — thigh sizes vary! Like a true oasis in the desert, the hacienda-style casitas and suites clustered around 41 pools are situated amongst gardens and pathways. Located at the base of the Santa Rosa mountains, the resort has no shortage of amenities including four restaurants and an award-win ning spa. laquintaresort.com HERMANN L’HORIZONBUNGALOWS+COLONY
You can rent Old Blue Eyes’ former home Twin Palms, a four-bedroom that’s filled with memorabilia and vintage decor. Splash in the pianoshaped pool where Marilyn Monroe and Tony Curtis used to party with Sinatra tunes filling the air, or make your own music on the original piano in the living room. sinatrahouse.com s Hermann Bungalows L'Horizon & Colony
BUNGALOWSBARTSCH/HERMANNJIM
Palm Springs Checklist sun hat + glasses Every type of sunscreen Convertible o Hiking shoes White linen Frank Sinatra + pool lounging playlists
Nov 4-6, 2022 Palm Springs celebrates diversity and community year round, but the town goes off the first weekend in November with a LGBTQ street fair, live music, and pool parties at various resorts. The weekend wraps up with a float-filled parade down historic Palm Canyon Drive. pspride.org
o
PALM SPRING FILM FESTIVAL
TOUR DE PALM SPRINGS
o
o Fabulous
o
PALMS SPRING PRIDE
Every Thursday night, historic Palm Canyon Drive turns into a giant “block party,” with live music, gour met eats, artisan booths and open-late shopping. Find fresh produce and flowers at the farmers market, along with jewelry, clothing and unique gifts. palmspringsvillagefest.com
January 5-16, 2023 Every January, Palm Springs rolls out the red carpet for a star-studded cinema fest that includes world premieres, international gems and notable shorts. Thirty-four years strong, this Hollywood satellite cul minates with a glam, black tie awards gala for 2,500 with plenty of people watching and star sightings galore. psfilmfest.org
MODERNISM WEEK February 16-26, 2023 Stroll through modernist archi tect Albert Frey’s famed residence; bike through old Las Palmas while being regaled with tales of Golden Era Hollywood stars who lived and martini’d there. Take a trip to the Annenberg Estate Sunnylands, sign up for a Mid-century cocktail clinic and then join the nightly parties under the stars. Classic car shows, curated vintage shopping, and mod ernism yard sales too. A mini version of the festival happens mid-October as well. modernismweek.commodernismweek.com
February 10-11, 2023 Pedal for a cause and join the peloton of cyclists (some 10,000) on the 25th annual Tour de Palm Springs, honor ing first responders and veterans. This exciting ride, with routes rang ing from 10 to 100 miles, supports local charities. Marching bands and jazz musicians entertain the riders and cheering enthusiasts. tourdepalmsprings.com
o
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 51
TIMES TO VISIT VILLAGEFEST
SPRINGSPALM Mai Tai Domination, Modernism Week
r
52 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 Let the Good Times Roll Golf has enjoyed an uptick of late — here’s where to play in the Bay Area.
STOCKZORANDIM75/ADOBE
By Robert Kaufman
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 53 “Don’t be too proud to take a lesson. I’m not.’’ - JACK NICKLAUS r Cordevalle, San MartinKAUFMANROBERT
Chardonnay Golf Club & Vineyards Course
Baylands Golf Links
The following is a curated list of the best public golf courses in greater Bay Area, in alphabetical order.
TALK ABOUT AN ELEVENTH HOUR EAGLE. The pan demic delivered an unexpected top score for the game of golf. Just as the Tiger Woods-popularity effect was waning and enterprising golf course owners were strug gling to come up with new ways to attract more players to their beautiful verdant greens (electric surf carts, sunset happy hours), a worldwide shutdown hit, allowing only a few options for socializing, golf being one. And poof — golf is back, better than ever.
VINESEAGLEOFCOURTESY
NAPA VALLEY Year built: 1991 Architect: Algie Pulley Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: Driving range with multiple target greens, practice fairway bunker, and undulated practice green; Kris Moe Golf Schools Food & Beverage: View Bar & Grill Searching for an authentic Wine Country golf experience? Chardonnay GC (1986) serves up the quintessential tasting. Void of any private residences, golfers will need only avoid hitting their golf ball into the countless rows of chardon nay, merlot and pinot noir grapevines bordering the fairways. There are no wine sampling stations available on the 18-hole, 6,773-yard course but the layout does feature a unique blend of six par fives, six par fours, and six par threes. chardonnaygolfclub.com Cinnabar Hills Golf Club
SAN JOSE Year built: 1991 Architect: John Harbottle III Number of holes: 27 (three nines) Practice Area: Grass-tee driving range, chipping area, and three putting greens Food & Beverage: Cinnabar Hills Restaurant Peacefully tucked high in the hills only a short drive from fast-paced Silicon Valley, Cinnabar Hills GC, designed by John Harbottle, includes three distinct nines: Lake, Canyon, and Mountain Courses. All 27 holes blend champion ship-caliber golf with spectacular views and have been crafted to maintain the natural slope of the area and protect the resident wildlife, including foxes and turkeys. To further enhance the landscape, hundreds of oaks were incor porated into the layout. cinnabarhills.com CordeValle
ALAMEDA Year built: North Course (1927); South Course (1957) Architect: North Course (William Park Bell) / Redesign by Marc Logan (2022); South Course (William Francis Bell / Redesign by Rees Jones (2018) Number of holes: 45 (North Course/ South Course/Mif Albright 9 Par 3)
The big-ticket landscape of the Greater Bay Area, from bustling cosmopolitan cities to quiet coastal com munities, has been gifted with an exceptionally diverse collection of communal golf courses layered with a rich frosting of history, from the architects who conceived them to some of the greatest wizards of golf, including Johnny Miller and Ken Venturi, who honed their skills on sidehill, uphill, and downhill lies. Whether a local or visi tor, there’s a golf challenge to suit any size wallet.
s Eagle Vines Golf Club, American Canyon
54 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022
As reported by Erik Matuszewski, editorial director of National Golf Foundation and Forbes contributor, “There were more rounds of golf played at courses across the U.S. than at any time in history. Ever.” This fun fact made it harder to secure tee times. With this came a change in the old school Rodney Dangerfieldesque country clubber, as the face, age and economics of golf is evolving. One of the channels for change can be attributed to the thriving Youth on Course program, which has provided over 130,000 kids access for $5 or less to golf courses around California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona and Idaho. Many of the courses around the Bay Area participate in the program — TPC Harding Park, for example, offers access via YOC in addition to hosting PGA Junior Championship tournaments. Up Highway 101, Silverado and Windsor in Napa Valley and Sonoma County offer summer camps and tournaments.
SAN MARTIN Year built: 1999 Architect: Robert Trent Jones Jr. Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: Driving range, putting green, chipping practice area Food & Beverage: One Iron Bar and Lion’s Peak Grill Situated on 260 acres of gently rolling terrain 30 minutes south of San Jose, Robert Trent Jones, Jr. took advantage of the natural elevation changes formed by peaks and canyons and enhanced by meandering creeks, plus sycamore and California oak trees. The 7,360-yard CordeValle GC offers an impressive variety of hole challenges for amateur and professional golfers (hosted PGA Tour Frys.com, 2010-13, and 2016 U.S. Women’s Open) and luxurious accommodations for a 5-star escape. cordevalle.com
Corica Park
PALO ALTO Year built : 1956 Architect: William Bell / Redesign (2018) Forrest Richardson Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: Driving range with 26 hitting bays, plus large chipping greens Food & Beverage: Baylands Cafe Opened in 1956, Palo Alto Municipal GC adjacent the Palo Alto Airport was redesigned by renowned architect Forrest Richardson and reopened as Baylands GL in 2018. With a fresh look, including the removal of 400 non-native trees, the 6,680-yard walkable layout features five par 3s, five par 5s and 55 acres of native Bayl and s vegetation and wetlands areas through which the San Fransisquito Creek, a historic waterway, runs acting as a major flood conveyance stream. baylandsgolflinks.com
Half Moon Bay Golf Links
KAUFMANROBERT
VALLEJO Year built: 1995 Architect: Arnold Palmer Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: Driving range, chipping area, and putting green
HALF MOON BAY Year built: Old Course (1973); Ocean Course (1997) Architect: Old Course (Arnold Palmer); Ocean Course (Rees Jones) Number of holes: 36 Practice Area: Putting green Food & Beverage: Mullins Bar & Grill Along the Pacific Coast 30 minutes from San Francisco or Silicon Valley, two 18-hole courses create bookends to The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay. The Arnold Palmer/Francis Duane-designed 7,001-yard Old Course (1973) has a park land feel with a premium on strategy over distance and a postcard 18th hole finish along the coastal bluff. The 6,854yard links-style Ocean Course (1997) is an Arthur Hills’ crafted layout with wide open fairways and Big Blue views from nearly every hole. A sunset finish on either is complimented by Scottish bagpipes. halfmoonbaygolf.com
- ANNIKA SORENSTRAM
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 55 r GolfWindsorClub, Windsor Practice Area: Driving range, short game area Food & Beverage: Jim’s on the Course Sports Bar & Grill Golf down under on the island city of Alameda at the Bay Area’s only Australian sand-belt style course. After a dramatic restoration (2018) to the South Course by famed architect Rees Jones, the minimalist 6,874-yard layout plays fast and firm with the option to strike the ball to the hole by air or ground. The property, five minutes from Oakland International Airport, is also home to the North Course (under renovation; 9 holes due to open June 2021) and one of America’s top nine-hole, par-3 courses. coricapark.com
"Ron Sirak, a golf writer and friend, was quoted as saying, ‘Annika is no longer a female golfer — she's a golfer.’ That's truly all I ever aspired to be."
Hiddenbrooke Golf Club
Eagle Vines Golf Club
NAPA VALLEY Year built: 1991 Architect: Johnny Miller Number of holes : 18 Practice Area: Putting green Food & Beverage: The Eagle Grill Beautifully blended into the foothills of Napa Valley, an hour away from Sacramento, San Francisco and Santa Rosa, Eagle Vines GC came into existence somewhat ready-made with ten of the original Shakespeare Course holes from the adjacent Chardonnay GC. The 18-hole, 7,297-yard course designed in part by World Golf Hall of Famer, Johnny Miller, weaves around majestic oak trees, creeks, and working vineyards to epitomize how golf and nature can coexist in magnificent harmony. eaglevinesgolfclub.com
Year built: 1974 (front nine) / 1995 (back nine) Architect: Robert Muir Graves Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: Putting green Food & Beverage: The Bar + Lounge This Scottish-style links course along the North Coast was completed in two phases with the front nine appearing in 1974 along the undulating landscape, followed by the back nine in 1995. The 6,649-yard layout is fairly unprotected from the ocean breezes and the fairways are bordered by native grasses and plants that sometimes serve as a magnet for wayward hit golf balls. Stay-and-play packages are available. thesearanchlo dge.com/golf Silverado Resort & Spa
Food & Beverage: Hiddenbrooke Grill
NOVATO Year built: 1957 Architect: R obert Nyberg Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: Driving range, chipping/ putting green, practice sand bunker Food & Beverage: 19th Hole Bar & Grill Indian Valley GC (1958), Marin County’s most remote golf challenge, is enhanced by game-distracting scenery of protected farmland covering the rolling hills sur rounding Stafford Lake. Steeped in its blue-collar roots with a family atmo sphere, the 6,374-yard hidden gem yields a variety of 18 holes playing around woodlands and wetlands but, perhaps, the most unique feature of any golf course is the elevator for transporting energetic walkers up a steep grade from hole #13 to #14. indianvalleygolfclub.com Metropolitan Golf Links
NAPA Year built: 1967 Architect: Jack Fleming / Bob Baldock Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: Driving range, short game practice area, large putting green Food & Beverage: Jack’s Bar & Grill Bordering the Napa River wetlands in the city of Napa, the classic parkland-style 6,681-yard course showcases a routing with somewhat narrow fairways that follow the topography, from tree-lined fairways on the east side to the flatter, more expansive holes on the west with some lakes. With significant enhance ments, including cart paths, tees, and bunkers in recent years plus a remodeled golf shop, it is one of the region’s most relaxed, kid-friendly, and affordable courses. playnapa.com Northwood Golf Club
LIVERMORE Year built: 1996 Architect: Rees Jones Number of holes: 27 (three nines) Practice Area: All-grass driving range, pitching green w/bunker, and three putting greens Food & Beverage: Grill at Poppy Ridge In the heart of Livermore Wine Country, the 27-hole Rees Jones design is reminis cent of the Scottish heathland courses. Three nines as distinct as the grape varietals they are named after – Merlot, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel – sweep through 3,000 acres of savannah-covered hills to provide challenges for golfers of any skill level. Each hole is shaped by extensive bunkering to reinforce the feel of a true links-style course and each nine closes with a lakeside green in front of the hacienda-style clubhouse. pop pyridgegolf.com Presidio Golf Course
Indian Valley Golf Club
MONTE RIO Year built: 1928 Architect: Alister Mackenzie Number of holes: 9 Practice Area: Putting green Food & Beverage: Casa Secoya / Northwood Bistro Adjacent to the Russian River in Sonoma County, Northwood GC (1928) was designed by famed architect Alister MacKenzie (Meadow Club, Cypress Point, Augusta National) in collaboration with Robert Hunter, as a creation for the exclusive Bohemian Club. Now open to the public, the friendly staff is super welcoming at this picturesque 2,893-yard nine-hole course with narrow fairways weaving around strands of towering Redwoods. northwoodgolf.com Pasatiempo Golf Course
Poppy Ridge Golf Club
Sea Ranch Golf Links
OAKLAND Year built: 2003 Architect: Johnny Miller/Fred Bliss Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: All-grass driving range, short game practice area Food & Beverage: Snacks and drinks In the tradition of great links courses, Johnny Miller and Fred Bliss designed 18 holes right next to Oakland International Airport with a spacious and open feel giving the thinking golfer a variety of options depending upon the wind and appetite for risk/reward. With a backdrop of the Oakland Hills, Bay, downtown Oakland and San Francisco, the compact 6,959-yard layout includes straight holes, doglegs and even a couple double doglegs throughout the subtle mounding and wetland areas. playmetro.com Napa Golf Course at Kennedy Park
A former host to the LPGA’s Samsung World Championships of Golf (20002002), the acclaimed an Arnold Palmer Signature golf course is nestled in a scenic secluded valley just north of San Francisco. At 6,619 yards with dramatic elevation changes, large challenging greens and water on 14 of the 18 holes, the award-winning (4.5-star rating from Golf Digest) Hiddenbrooke GC provides five sets of tees to accommodate begin ning to advanced golfers. hiddenbrookegolf.com
56 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022
SANTA CRUZ Year built: 1929 Architect: Alister Mackenzie Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: Driving range, putting green Food & Beverage: Hollins House & The Tap Room / Mackenzie Bar & Grill
Peacock Gap Golf Club
SAN FRANCISCO
Year built: 1895 Architect: Robert Johnstone/ William McEwan Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: Driving range, 6-hole practice putting/chipping green Food & Beverage: Presidio Café Overlooking the gateway to San Francisco Bay, Presidio GC (1895) is the second old est course west of the Mississippi. Before transitioning to a public course in 1995, play was restricted to military officers and the likes of Joe DiMaggio, Babe Ruth and Dwight Eisenhower. The deceiv ingly long 6,481-yard hilly layout within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area meanders around Eucalyptus and Monterey Pine trees and is a mission worth undertaking. presidiogolf.com
Less than an hour’s drive north from the Monterey Peninsula, Pasatiempo GC (1929) was designed by Alister MacKenzie (Augusta National, Cypress Point). It was considered the renowned Scottish architect’s favorite 18-hole creation and where his American home still borders the sixth fairway. Consistently ranked among America’s top public golf courses, this historic 6,495-yard championship venue is a must-play on the Bay Area’s golf bucket list. pasatiempo.com
SEA RANCH
SAN RAFAEL Year built: 1960 Architect: William F. Bell / Forrest Richardson (2007 renovation) Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: All-grass driving range, practice green, chipping area Food & Beverage: Range Cafe Bar & Grill Peacock Gap GC (1960) was designed by William F. Bell and later renovated (early 2000’s) by Forrest Richardson. By blending the classic Bell bunker style with innovative green contours and new holes, including risk-reward par-4s, reachable par-5s and a par-3 that plays across a pond to a two-level green, the very walkable 6,261-yard layout offers golfers a solid variety of shot-making. Also on site is Marin County’s all-grass driving range, practice greens and chip ping area. peacockgapgolfclub.com
NAPA Year built: 1955 (North Course); 1966 (South Course) Architect: 1966: Robert Trent Jones Jr. redesign of North Course and added South Course/ 2014: North & South
TPC Harding Park
“You think you have it, and then you don’t. Like catching lightning in a bottle.’’ - GEORGE ARCHER
SAN FRANCISCO Year built: 1925 Architect: Willie Watson/Sam Whiting Number of holes: 27 Practice Area: Toptracer Range, putting green Food & Beverage: Cypress Grill Surrounded by Monterey Cypress trees and Lake Merced, TPC Harding Park (1925) is where San Franciscoborn golf legends Johnny Miller, Ken Venturi, and George Archer honed their game. Following a $16 million restoration project in 2002-03, the 6,845-yard gem has hosted multiple pro tournaments, including the Presidents Cup (2005) and the 2020 PGA Championship. The Fleming 9 course (2,165 yards) was added in 1961 in the interior of the 18-hole layout. tpc.com/hardingpark Vintner’s Golf Club
WINDSOR Year built: 1989 Architect: Fred Bliss Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: All-grass driving range, putting green, chipping area Food & Beverage: Charlie’s Restaurant As a one-time host to several PGA Ben Hogan Tour and Nike Tour (now Korn Ferry Tour) tournaments, Windsor GC (1989) in Sonoma Wine Country is a challenging 6,599-yard layout unclut tered by neighboring homes that carves through a gently rolling land scape with a multitude of visual treats, including the club’s signature Silo, native oaks, and strategically-placed ponds. windsorgolf.com r The Course at Wente LivermoreVineyards,
redesign by Johnny Miller Number of holes: 36 Practice Area: All-grass driving range, putting green, chipping green Food & Beverage: The Grill Napa Valley’s renown Wine Country and 36 golf holes at the iconic Silverado Resort & Spa exemplify the consummate pairing. With two championship courses redesigned by World Golf Hall of Fame member and co-owner, Johnny Miller. Both offer an abundance of water and large greens, however, the 7,166-yard North Course, which hosts the annual PGA Tour Safeway Open, is longer and more straightforward than the hillier 6,612yard South Course with less room for error. Don’t miss the famous “burger dog” available at the snack shack. silveradoresort.com
KAUFMANROBERT
PETALUMA Year built: 1998 Architect: Fred Bliss Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: All-grass driving range, two practice putting greens Food & Beverage: Snacks and drinks Located on the outskirt of Sonoma Wine Country, Rooster Run GC features level, wide fairways surrounded by ancient oak trees, native willows and cottonwoods, plus a bevy of water hazards, including six lakes and the areas only island green. But the true test for scoring well on the 7,001-yard track will be earned on the greens that are large, fast, and very undu lated. roosterrun.com
LIVERMORE Year built: 1998 Architect: Greg Norman Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: Driving range, putting green, chipping green, short game practice area Food & Beverage: The Grill Greg “The Shark” carved an 18-hole masterpiece through acres of centuryold grapevines and rolling hills in the scenic Livermore Valley Wine Country. The Course at Wente Vineyards (1998), 50 minutes east of San Francisco, provides eye-candy panoramas to compliment a 7,181-yard layout that once challenged (2006-08) the PGA Tour’s Nationwide Tour (now Korn Ferry Tour). The cart ride from hole No. 9 to No. 10 treats golfers to a taste San Francisco’s world-famous Lombard St. wentevineyards.com/course
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 57
BODEGA BAY Year built: 1978 (back nine) / 1987 (front nine) Architect: Robert Trent Jones Jr. Number of holes: 18 Practice Area: Putting green Food & Beverage: Bluewater Bistro Hugging Sonoma County’s coastline with spectacular Pacific Ocean views, The Links at Bodega Harbour (back nine, 1978/front nine, 1987) guar antees a happier birdie experience than Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds that was filmed nearby. With rolling hills and undulating greens dominating this Scottish-style links designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., the front nine is demanding with strategically-placed pot bunkers, while the back nine presents wider fairways and a dramatic three-hole, par 4-3-4, finish. bodegaharbourgolf.com
Rooster Run Golf Club
The Links at Bodega Harbour
Year built: 1999 Architect: Casey O’Callaghan Number of holes : 9 Practice Area: Putting green Food & Beverage: Lakeside Grill The charming 9-hole gem is situated next door to the Domaine Chandon Winery and across Hwy 29 from Yountville’s eat ing establishments and shops. With three sets of tees to challenge any player from scratch to beginner for a two-hour round, the 2,929-yard course was redesigned by PGA Tour and Senior Tour player, Bob Boldt, and showcases large greens and ample-size fairways. vintnersgolfclub.com
Windsor Golf Club
The Course at Wente Vineyards
YOUNTVILLE
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 59
CULTURE
September 9
September 3 Described as the “funnest ride” in Northern California, the Tour de Fuzz in Sonoma County features a finish-line party celebration bar becue prepared by local chefs with unlimited sides, beer and wine. tourdefuzz.org September 14-18 Voted most fan-friendly PGA Tour event, the Fortinet Championship hosts many of the top PGA Tour players in the world at the Silverado Resort and Spa in Napa. fortinetchampionship.com
3
STOCKPOKROVSKY/ADOBEEKATERINA
PlannerMonth
Oakland-based Community Education Partnerships is seeking mentors and tutors for kids facing homelessness and housing insecurity — make a real difference in the lives of local children in need. cep.ngo
HELPOUT Fall events curated activities for this Fall in the Bay Area.
September 7 Can you smell the hairspray? Take it back to the ‘80s with Def Leppard, Mötley Crüe, Poison, and Joan Jett and the Blackhearts at Chase Center. chase.centersanfrancisco.org
SEPTEMBER FOOD Round up the crew and go apple picking. The closest spots are in Apple-a-Day Ratzlaff Ranch, Gabriel Farm, and Chileno Valley Ranch in Sonoma County, and Clearview Organic Orchards in Watsonville. September 10 Try samples from local restaurants and enjoy craft beers from the likes of Laughing Monk Brewing, Lagunitas Brewing Company and other favorites at the Petaluma River Craft Beer Festival petalumarivercraftbeerfest.org
The 2022-23 season of the San Francisco Opera kicks off with an Opening Night Concert in conjunc tion with the return of Opera Ball followed by eight mainstage operas, additional concerts and community events through July 1, 2023. sfopera.com Through October 24
Carlos Villa: Worlds in Collision at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco introduces audiences to spectacular, visually magical worlds of feathers and photographs, capes and masks, bones and tattoos. asianart.org September 23 Don your finest garb and make your way to the San Francisco Symphony’s Opening Night . Music Director Esa-Pekka Salonen is set to lead the symphony in a presentation of Felix Mendelssohn’s music to A Midsummer Night’s Dream . sfsymphony.org SPORTS
BlessingoftheAnimals
CULTURE September 30 - October 2 A beloved — and free — gathering, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass brings doz ens of notable musical acts to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park. hardlystrictlybluegrass.com
The weekend-long Sonoma Harvest Music Festival showcases the world’s top musicians in the intimate vine yard setting of B.R. Cohn Winery. sonomaharvestmusicfestival.com
The 45th annual Mill Valley Film Festival is back, bringing a stellar line-up of films, music, events and Hollywood stars to Marin County. mvff.com
The Clo Cow Half Marathon (10K and 5K) returns to Historic Downtown Petaluma. See rural Sonoma County farm country, where you’ll be cheered on by cows. clocowhalf.com
October 2 Bless your pets (all species welcome), in a picturesque Sonoma setting, sipping wine at St. Francis Winery’s annual Blessing of the Animals which supports the Humane Society of Sonoma County. stfranciswinery.com
60 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 LG | PLANNER
October 16
SPORTS
HELPOUT
October 7-9 Come out to the FoodieLand Night Market in Berkeley — this three-day event is a one-stop-shop for food and drink, shopping, and entertainment. foodielandnm.com
OCTOBER FOOD
October 1 Featuring over 50 wines from both established and small production wineries, the Tiburon Wine Festival provides a rare opportunity to experience new vino and savor old favorites — from Napa, Sonoma and as far afield as Italy and Hungary. tiburonchamber.org It’s time to get your pumpkins. While you’re at it, why not wander through a corn maze? Some spots throughout the area include the Alameda Point Pumpkin Patch, Arata’s Pumpkin Farm in Half Moon Bay and G&M Farms in Livermore.
A’S)(OAKLANDZAGARISMICHAEL(MARATHON);PHOTOGRAPHYHAFFNERMARY
October 6-16
October 3-5 Catch the end of the MLB season and see the Oakland A’s play — and hope fully beat — the Los Angeles Angels. mlb.com
The SF SPCA is always looking for volunteers to spend time and help animals acclimate from a life of abuse and neglect to one of love. Start your training today. sfspca.org r r Oakland A’s
October 8-9
WINE & FOOD EXPERIENCES | VINEYARD ADVENTURES Authentic Sonoma Awaits! 100 PYTHIAN ROAD AT HWY 12, SANTA ROSA, CA | 888-675-WINE | STFRANCISWINERY.COM Immerse yourself in the culinary splendor of Sonoma at St. Francis Winery & Vineyards. Retreat to a relaxed engagement where expert wine educators guide you through a Chef selected lineup of epicurean delicacies flawlessly paired with award-winning artisan wines. Enjoy picturesque mountainscapes and endless vineyard views while invigorating your palate, senses, and spirit.
HELPOUT r San Francisco Coffee Festival r Santa Rosa Turkey Trot
November 5-6
Read mail, pay bills, or run errands for clients of the Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired in the South Bay. No prior experience is necessary. vistacenter.org
SPORTS November 13 Go Niners! The San Francisco 49ers will be playing the Chargers at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. 49ers.com
November 19 Basically the battle of the bay, come see the Big Game — a.k.a. Stanford taking on the Golden Bears in Berkeley. calbears.com
CULTURE Through June 25, 2023
The season of Turkey Trots is upon us. From the Zoom Turkey Trot in San Jose all the way up to Santa Rosa and Healdsburg, there’s no shortage of opportunities to throw on your silliest suit and burn some calories.
November 18
A one-day community event where local restaurants and busi nesses provide diverse bites paired with delectable wine, the Taste of Mountain View is a fantastic way to support and savor the best of the community. tasteofmountainview.com
NOVEMBER FOOD
Come see David Sedaris at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts in Santa Rosa. Sedaris is one of America’s preeminent humor writers, beloved for his personal essays and short stories. lutherburbankcenter.org
November 12-13 Try the best coffee in town at the 6th Annual San Francisco Coffee Festival. Top roasters and exhibitors will be sharing their unique beans and flavor profiles at Fort Mason. sfcoffeefestival.com
62 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 LG | PLANNER
Learn how each cup of tea can be a different experience and discover teas straight from local and global producers at the San Francisco International Tea Festival. sfitf.com
November 9
From a chair resembling mushrooms to one made from 3-D printed recy cled plastic, Conversation Pieces: Contemporary Furniture in Dialogue at SFMOMA will feature 45 works that prioritize meaning and material choice over function and practicality. sfmoma.org
Why is TMS basically unheard-of? How long has it been available? Does it really work? TMS was first approved as a treatment for major depressive disorder in 2008. The bottom line is that TMS is an incredible technology that has had insufficient mar keting because the vendors of the machines do not have the inclination, or perhaps the budget to market directly to consumers (unlike drug companies). The data sup porting its use are incredible: over sixty percent of people with drug resistant major depressive disorder achieve remission from their depression after being treated with a full course of TMS. When you talk to people who have been treated with TMS, they are often dismayed that they were not offered it earlier in their illness. Are you really allowing people without depression to receive KAP? Isn’t it unethical to give people medications unless they need them? Owning and run ning Morpheus Medical Aesthetics has taught me that no one needs what I do for them, and yet all my clients want it. Botox is a medicine; ketamine is a medicine; both make you feel better.
“YOU
• mentallyimprovechologicaladdressestherapytoalsootherandmentWhileObsessive-compulsivedisorder(recentlyapprovedbytheFDA)TMSisapassivetreatthatinvolvesnodrugsnotalktherapy,attheendofthespectrum,BTCprovidespatientsaccessketamine-assistedpsycho(KAP).KAPtreatmentmanyofthesamepsyillnesses,butalsocanwellnessinthealreadyhealthy.
And despite the outcome, I am certain that I never want to take ketamine again. It was not horrible, but it was not fun. I would describe the experience of ketamine to be like shaking the snow globe of your life. When you come out of it, the blizzard has created a beautiful new blanket of snow. But, you must do the integration therapy to make new tracks in the snow. If you do not do the work, you will inevitably slip back into the hardened tracks that lie beneath the powder and nothing at all will have changed.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
PROMOTION
Have you yourself ever experienced ketamine? Did you like it? Yes and no. I was treated with a series of KAP sessions in October of 2020. I was shocked by the truly transformative effect it had on my life. I thought that I wanted to keep a state of recurrent depression at bay, which it did, but more remarkably and totally unexpectedly, it eliminated what had been a horrible co-dependent personality flaw. I remember telling my therapist that I felt like I was suddenly made of Teflon. I felt like I was able to cook an egg (i.e. be completely present and engaged with a person) but then it would slide right off of me (i.e. I wasn’t responsible for fixing their life.) This, after decades of thinking/believing/knowing that I had to fix everything and everyone around me!
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 63 Curious About Feeling Your Best?
• Treatment sincedepressionresistant(FDAapproved2008) •
State-of-the-art mental health clinic just opened in Santa Rosa. DON’T HAVE TO BE SICK TO WANT TO BE MORE WELL” is the fundamental approach at Be the Change in Mental Health (BTC) — a new kind of wellness clinic in Santa Rosa offering a revolutionary approach to mental wellness. Compelled to be part of a solution in our country’s mental health crisis, Dr. Marisha Chilcott, MD, and her team opened the doors this spring and are actively treating patients from all over the Bay Area. BTC currently offers effective technologies such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) to help patients with: Anxiety (off-label)
PROMOTION
BlazersTrail
Is it the soil, the air, the vibe? What is it about California that makes it arguably the most famous of the 50 states and fifth largest economy in the world? Ac cording to the Real California Cheese campaign, it’s the sunshine. Could be, but there is something pretty darn special about the 31st state. Living in California seems to encourage innovation, inspire visionaries to actualize their visions and wow the world. From the early days when the miners of gold needed clothes tough enough to endure extreme weather and rugged terrain, a businessman named Levi Strauss solved this problem and his red-tabbed den im became recognized internationally as a symbol of quality. A fantasy-minded youth named Walt not only imagined the happiest place on earth, but fostered the Imagineer ing division of his eponymous company, which is now responsible for the creation, design, and construction of Disney theme parks and attractions worldwide. Speaking of imagination — would anyone have thought we could hold the whole world in our hands? Steve Jobs did. And yep, California was his home. Let us introduce you to some fellow dynamic Californians.
TrailCaliforniaBlazers
64 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 65 PROMOTION Mission Atelier • 917.796.0547 • info@missionatelier.com • missionatelier.com “
Mission Atelier Bobby London | Founder in 2016 by Bobby London, Mission Atelier creates accessories both men and women ranging from necklaces to cufflinks and everything in between. London’s vision initially began with a clean and abstract symbol that embodied all the elements of his design aesthetic — reimagining traditional pieces as works of art and exploration of scale, proportion and white space. Each collection could be considered minimalist beauty with a purpose. Mission Atelier wares can be found in a number of high-end retailers in San Francisco, Palm Springs and online.
fine jewelry and
What are your thoughts on growing and expanding your business? I’m very excited and optimistic. I have a lot of spiritual knowledge I’d like to share, and great ideas for communicating it through fine jewelry and luxury — which also happens to be the mission of Mission Atelier: to increase consciousness through fine jewelry and luxury. We want to consciousnessincreasethroughfinejewelryandluxury. ”
Qs What sets you apart from your competition? Mission Atelier jewelry designs are truly unique, commercially appealing and full of spiritual meaning all at the same time. We also give a percentage of profits to a great mindfulness education charity called Mission Be. Is there something about your circumstance/upbringing that prepared you or set you up for success? My mom took me shopping at Barneys New York way too young, and instilled an appreciation for luxury and design that has only grown over time. My great grandfather was also a watchmaker and jeweler, so maybe it’s also in the DNA.
Founded
for
Nick Faldo, Annika Sörenstam, Tiger Woods, Greg Norman (great white shark). Hank Haney and David Leadbetter are the 2 top coaches in golf I trained under. There was a match between Nick Faldo and Greg Norman in Jamaica that was incredible and really got me fired up for competition. Why did you decide to lead golf tours in Puerto Vallarta? Puerto Vallarta — the jewel of Mexico! I have found that people learn best when away from their home and work and are in a beautiful and relaxing setting. You get picked up at the airport and in five minutes are walking into the resort for your first sunset fiesta. This is a golfing oasis with two championship golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf and it’s only a threeand-a-half-hour direct flight from SFO. The excellent staff and beauty of the facilities are off the charts. Instruction on the range happens every morning and then I guide you through 18 holes each golf day — that is how you learn best.
Qs Where did your passion for golf originate? My father was my inspiration. He taught me how to be a home run hitter in Little League and then I discovered I could hit a golf ball three times as far — game on! From there my passion became an obsession in a good way. In my early 20s I shot my first 67 on a par 72. I decided to become a PGA Professional at 32 and by 35 was voted PGA Section Teacher of the Year. Who are your golf inspirations?
“ People learn best when away from their home and work and are in a beautiful and relaxing setting.
At the age of 10, Paul Gorman got hooked on golf. He found he excelled at the sport and eventually made it his career path. For the past 25 years, Gorman has taught golf at local courses including the Meadow Club and Peacock Gap. During that time he has observed all levels of players which helped him develop his teaching technique: to give students a set of principles, use what they have naturally and enhance their game from that point. The most recent evolution in his career is curating group golf trips to Puerto Vallarta, where players get to enjoy beautiful oceanfront accommodations, play championship golf courses while experiencing both driving range and on course instruction. Optional paddle boarding and yoga are also on the itinerary. Feedback from those who have gone on these trips is it’s a relaxing and fun-filled vacation with the bonus of improving your golf game — participants say, “It’s absolutely a game changer with Paul at your side on the golf course.”
“
Paul Gorman • 415.699.9117 • paul@gormangolf.com • gormangolftours.com
BlazersTrail
66 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 PROMOTION
Golf Retreats in Paradise
Paul Gorman | PGA Professional
Margarita Cosmetics
mc@margaritacosmetics.com650.644.8265•margaritacosmetics.com
You bring a spiritual approach to everything you do — how does this benefit the client? I love people and I love what I do, I am very intune to the energies of others and this allows me to interact with my clients on a much deeper level. A 90 minute treatment will connect you with The Breath of Life. What does Margarita Cosmetics mean to you? It’s my baby, my life. This brand is what I have dreamed of since I was a little girl and it has been incredible to watch it come to life. But it it takes a village, which is my incredible team of chemists. What sets Margarita cosmetics apart from others in this field? My treatments and products are gluten-free, paraben-free and cruelty-free, but more than that, they are the culmination of years of study and created with patience and care to ensure the best possible results for everyone, no matter the skin type. My treatments and products are the culmination of years of study and created with patience and care to ensure the best possible results for everyone. “ ”
Landing in Paris, French culture and the influence of luxury on some of Europe’s most famous brands and products further piqued Margarita’s interest. She’s a graduate of the Academy of Intuition Medicine, Institute of Tantra Yoga and offers Access Bars treatments and a facial massage using 12 different techniques.
Margarita Cosmetics •
Margarita Copeland | Founder Margarita was born and raised in the south of Russia. Her passion for beauty began at an early age when she found herself fascinated by flawless skin, and she completed her studies at the prestigious Moscow Institute of Aesthetics before embarking on a career as a beautician. Working in Moscow opened her eyes to the different beauty and grooming standards held by women of various nationalities, prompting her to embark on a six-year journey to learn as much as she could about every kind of aesthetic aspect. Traveling throughout Africa and Europe, she was able to combine different skin care techniques with the very best ingredients.
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 67 PROMOTION
Qs
“ ”
Zachary Cohn Real Estate Professional A sixth-generation San Franciscan, Zachary Cohn was raised in Tiburon, a waterfront community across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco. An avid hiker, musician, camper and curious soul, he has explored every town, music venue and many trails throughout his home county, creating his extensive knowledge of Sausalito, Tiburon, Kentfield, Mill Valley, Novato, San Rafael, Larkspur and West Marin. On the board of Mill Valley Streamkeepers, Zach can also be found volunteering on weekends to protect these fragile habitats. As a local real estate agent, his clients have commented on his integrity, honesty, professionalism and patience. Zachary will always dedicate his full attention to everything his clients present to him.
Qs Why did you decide to pursue this line of work? I love to meet people from all walks of life, and therefore it is a great joy for me to have the opportunity to support my clients with all of their real estate needs. Is there something about success?preparedcircumstances/upbringingyourthatyouorsetyouupfor
Lessons I learned at a very young age informed me that it is essential to be a totally caring conscientiousandlistener.
68 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 PROMOTION BlazersTrail
Zachary Cohn • 415.847.1983 • zachary.cohn@evusa.com zacharycohn.evusa.com • DRE# 01314786
Caring for my mother with Alzheimer’s has influenced my motivation significantly. It enabled me to provide the very best advice and service to my clients. What sets you apart from your competition? Lessons I learned at a very young age informed me that it is essential to be a totally caring and conscientious listener — every single word matters! I apply this to my clients because understanding all their goals is always my top priority.
Eva Claiborne | Master Esthetician
Best treatment for sensitive skin? The compounds used in my Sensitive Skin Therapy are designed to help red, irritated, and allergy-prone skin. We use botanicals like black currant seed oil and balloon vine extract to reduce inflammation and relieve itchy, allergyprone skin. The treatment starts with gentle cleansing and exfoliation, then follows with a pressure point massage to help stimulate the skin and lymph system. A calming mask is applied at the end to help the newly cleaned skin drink in healing botanicals like arnica, aloe vera, and chamomile — these natural active ingredients to help skin look visibly calm, healthy, and radiant. What do you enjoy the most about your work? Helping my clients feel and look beautiful inside and out! After Ibodyworkadvancedstudyingfacialandtherapiesaroundtheglobe,developedmyownuniquestyleofskincare. “ ”
Eva Claiborne Beauty & Wellness
•
Qs
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 69 PROMOTION
Schooled in the renowned Hungarian tradition of effective skincare therapy, Eva Claiborne is an innovative and experienced Master Esthetician and Perioperative Aesthetic Specialist with over forty years of experience. Eva provides the highest level of skincare and spa services, designed to achieve and maintain healthy beautiful skin from head to toe. In addition to her extensive European and American training, Eva has developed her own approach to skin care and launched a comprehensive line of pre- and postoperative products for plastic surgery patients — TITOK naturals®. TITOK naturals® patent-pending Pre & Postoperative Wellness Treatments were formulated alongside top dermatologists and plastic surgeons to address all patient needs. The line is a result of decades of experience on a global scale that embodies Eva’s unique philosophy — people need to be more gentle with their skin. Instead of stripping the skin with harsh products, a regimen of non-abrasive products and custom treatments will bring overall well-being, both before and after cosmetic procedures and surgery. The treatments are beneficial for both elective and required surgeries.
Eva Claiborne • 415.435.4326 • evaclaiborne@gmail.com tiburonskincare.com
Tell us more about yourself. After studying advanced facial and bodywork therapies around the globe, I developed my own unique style of skincare upon arriving to the United States in 1989. One of my specialties is the Lymphatic Wellness Treatment, which combines aromatherapy and slow wave motions that detoxify the body and boost the immune system while balancing the chakras with seashells.
California Wine Merchant
We looked at Bay Area wine bars and found a few where we want to hang out, chill, drink a glass or two of wine, learn something new, whatevs. It’s the IRL part we like best.
Wine bars are like snowflakes: each one is distinct in look and feel, wine selection and vibe.
Customers play a role, too, influencing what gets placed on the wine list and the food menu.
Where Wine Comes First San Francisco Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant & Wine Bar Wines: International and California wines of distinction.
Why Visit: Owner/Partner and Master Sommelier Peter Granoff’s wine bar was the fourth business to open at the city’s iconic Ferry Building after it was renovated in 2003 and has been pouring a heavily curated list ever since. “People expect it to be California-centric, but there is a large international component that appeals to locals,” Granoff says. Granoff offers what he calls “high-quality wine that represents a good value proposition” in 2-ounce, 5-ounce and carafe-size pours or you can self-construct a flight. “Grab any wine off our shelf and drink onsite for $12 cork age,” Granoff insists, an amount unheard of in San Francisco. Granoff invites you to play with your wine, pairing it with caviar, plates of charcuterie and cheese, or a Mediterranean mezze plate. “Explore your own taste parameters,” he says while enjoying the terrific people watching on the patio. Almost 20 years on, it’s still a scene. fpwm.com Scopo DiVino Wines: Winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2021 for the fourth consecutive year, a score for a six-year-old business.
70 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 LG | EATS
By Christina Mueller
Why Visit: “Wine is women,” says Owner/Wine Therapist Tim Skyler Hayman, who confirmed that 85% of his clientele are of the so-called fairer sex. Around a cool zinc bar, two big couches and four comfy chairs encourage lounging with a 6-ounce pour (the standard here) of eclectic wines from anywhere in the world. Hand-painted murals show the world’s wine regions and a significant investment in sound proofing means guests can hear themselves talk, even when there is live music (six days a week). A bot tomless brunch is insanely popular on the weekends, but most come in for Hayman’s guidance on what to pair with their extensive menus. At dinner that might be a medium-bodied red grape — Monica from Sardinia — with the pork ragu while at brunch, Chef Jeff’s NOLA roots come to the fore front in a fried catfish Benedict or house made beignets — his burger also won Best Burger from the SF Bay Guardian two years running. “We also do flights, but our most popular pro gram is the bartender’s choice, which we say is a wine therapy session,” Hayman adds. scopodivino.com
Wines: Small batch California wines served in Riedel stemware.
Why Visit: Lower Nob Hill welcomed owner Daniel Azarkman’s homage to all things Spanish just over three years ago. “They have a vermouth hour in Spain between 4 and 6 in the afternoon — I love that culture of grazing, eating where it is not necessarily about a meal but as a social activity,” says Azarkman who fell in love with the Spanish bar culture on a visit and wanted to bring that idea to San Francisco. While getting together is the primary activity, the r Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant & Wine Bar, San Francisco
Why Visit: Forty-nine years on Chestnut Street (it first opened in 1974) with a specialty in small California wine producers is the win ning ticket for a wine bar that pours half and full glasses or a bottle. There are also new discoveries from Oregon and Washington as well as a well-curated selection of international labels. A small menu of cheese, salami, or hummus plates staves off hunger until dinner can be had nearby. californiawinemerchant.com
El Wines:LopoSpanish wines, sherries, and vermouths.
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 71 EANESLORI
Wines:Amelie French wine focus. Why Visit: After sixteen years in Polk Gulch, owners and Frenchmen Samie Didda and Certified Sommelier Germain Michel credit their success to a regularly updated wine list and food program which is all-in on France. Ok, ok, there is the occasional Malbec from Argentina or Trebbiano from Italy but really, it’s all about France’s many wine regions, accompanied by a French-influenced menu of small plates (escargot, oven-baked Camembert), flatbreads, and grands (duck leg confit, gratin de Ravioles du Royans).
Spanish wines, sherries and vermouths are all organized on the menu by what to pair them with, streamlining the process for the adventurous or just the hungry.
High Wines:Treason
Music sourced from French radio floats over the red-tinted room, aglow with warmly lighted lamps. At the bar or at a table, the Flight Club Happy Hour includes three pours for $12 and the week end oyster special runs $13. “We always talk about F-AMELIE,” says r Savvy Cellar, Mountain View
Azarkman, who was drawn in via sherry’s beguiling whispers, notes that there are eight styles of sherry, “and seven of them have less sugar than most table wines. Sherry is very food friendly.”
Think of his neighborhood watering hole as an alternate reality where California is still a Spanish territory. “We are not authentically Spanish,” he says. His suggested pairing? Azarkman swears by the old Spanish saying: “If it swims, manzanilla or fino, if it flies, amontillado or palo cortado, and if it runs, oloroso.” elloposf.com
At an up-and-coming neighborhood spot, wines are curated by a Master Sommelier. Why Visit: Michael Ireland has been a Master Sommelier since 2006, spending most of his time in Michelin-starred restaurants like French Laundry, Quince, Benu, and Restaurant at Meadowood. Established in 2016 amid the Clement Street lineup of pan-Asian eateries and old-time Irish pubs, Ireland’s venture is a laid-back space. “I grew up on a skateboard and wanted to get back to that,” Ireland says. “High Treason is like coming over to my house — drink some good wine and listen to some records. Wine was never meant to be a highbrow thing.” His list reflects his history sourcing wines: He doesn’t stick to a region or style, recently discovering an orange wine an Italian Coenobium, made at a monastery in Lazio, for example. “It’s an absolute classic,” Ireland says. He’s got 40 wines by the glass and says that chilled wines, including Lambrusco and a light pinot noir from JK Carriere, are flying out the door. Open six years with skateboard decks on the walls, album covers arranged as artwork and a “great bottles” wall, it’s one part punk and one part Mid-century modern. Try one of those chilled reds with a plate lunch (or dinner) from Unco Frank’s, Hawaiian-inspired grindz, which is running the kitchen. hightreasonsf.com
The
Michel, who has clients who come back every time they visit San Francisco. He currently is recommending the beef carpaccio with any of the 15 cru Beaujolais on the Amelie list or the warm pistachio goat cheese ball with Minervois from Didda’s Domaine du Somail in the Languedoc. sfamelie.com
Why Visit: Co-owner Jim Yang credits growing up in Europe with helping define his palate, a flavor preference he refers to as “old world.” He likes to pick wines that are true to a place’s iden tity. For California, that means Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Zinfandel and Petite Sirah, for example. A menu of draft and canned beers complements a glass and bottle program, but many guests prefer to stop in for the week’s “mystery flight.” Flatbreads, cheese and charcuterie boards and small plates of meatballs, crostini and Parmesan tater tots make fine eating, too. savvycellar.com
72 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 LG | EATS
1403thebumpbar.comSAUSALITO,BRIDGEWAYCA
South Bay Savvy Cellar, Mountain View Wines: Wines that are true to the varietal where they grow best.
East Bay The Study Wine Bar, Richmond Wines: The most extreme form of natural wines. Why Visit: Owner Noel Diaz wanted to make wine and launched a career as a winemaker in 2013. He uses all organic grapes in his pet nat, rosé, orange and other natural wines. Diaz had no intention of having a bar, but the continual requests of neighbors asking when his winery was open encouraged him to convert part of the winery into a bar. Since opening in 2019, Diaz developed the wine program to only offer zero/zero wines, or wines that have absolutely no additives and have not been filtered. “It’s the most extreme form of natural wine,” Diaz says. Zero/zero wines from seven in-house producers means 20 different cuvees made in Richmond. The Study also carries wine from other Californian and American producers, as well as an extensive selection of zero/zero wine from places such as Chile, France, Italy and Spain. puritywine.net/ the-study-wine-bar
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 73
wine map, and
wine tast ing.
The feature film Bottle Shock chronicles the Judgment of Paris, a 1976 blind The stunning win by Chateau Montelena Chardonnay from an unknown Napa Valley winery put Northern California next to on the world’s America’s Country was though northeast of San Francisco and 789 miles, the fertile, warmer Napa Valley boasts
born. Today,
it’s only 70 miles
Valley Getties
4 Michelin-starred restaurants and more than 400 wineries. Because 95 percent are family-owned, you’ll be warmly welcomed for a half- or full-day visit. Consider this your fail-safe guide to the region — Readers’ Choice selections are bolded. 2 022 Getties Readers’Choice Local Getaways r Harvest Inn. St. Helena INNHARVESTOFCOURTESY
square
Wine
France
74 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 LG | NAPA GETTIES
Napa
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 75 BREAKFAST Boonfly CalistogaBouchonCaféBakeryRoastery Contimo Provisions The Model Bakery Southside Café LUNCH Calistoga Inn Restaurant and Brewery Giugni’s Deli Gott’s Roadside Loveski Deli Oxbow Public Market Rutherford Grill DINNER Ad Hoc Bistro Jeanty Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch Kitchen Door North Block The Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil DESSERTS & TREATS Anette’s Chocolates Napa Valley Bouchon Bakery Kollar Chocolates The Model Bakery Monday Bakery & Cafe Woodhouse Chocolate Eatw r YountvilleVintageHouse, r Carneros Resort and Spa, Napa r CalistogaSolage, s Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch, St. Helena INN)(VINTAGEPRYCEWILL(CHICKEN);@LONGMEADOWRANCH(SOLAGE);GRAMLYCHRIS
76 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 LG | NAPA GETTIES Y O U ’ R E O U R F A V O R I T E H E L L O ! V I S I T U S T O E X P L O R E A R T , J E W E L R Y , H O M E D E C O R , U N I Q U E G I F T S A N D C O N V E R S A T I O N . Stayw DINING AT THE WINERIES Louis M. Martini Winery, Outdoor Cabana + Underground Cellar Experiences Opus PriestOneRanch Bacon & Wine Experience Silver Trident Chip Extravaganza Trefethen Family Vineyards’ “Taste the Estate” LUXURY Auberge du Soleil CarnerosBardessonoResort and Spa Four Seasons Napa Valley Hotel PoetryYountvilleInnNapa Valley Solage StanlyAubergeRanch,Resorts Collection The Francis House White House Napa Valley Inn GROUP GETAWAYS Harvest Inn Ink House Napa Valley The Francis House The Meritage Resort & Spa Senza Silverado Resort and Spa Vintage House Vista Collina VALUE Blackbird Inn Brannan Cottage Inn Calistoga Motor Lodge El Bonita Motel Maison Fleurie Napa Valley Lodge River Terrace Inn Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort UpValley Inn & Hot Springs s Ad YountvilleHoc,
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 77 SPRINGSINDIANOFCOURTESY s IndianCalistogaSprings SPA & WELLNESS Auberge du Soliel Carneros Resort and Spa Dr. Wilkinson’s Resort Indian Springs Calistoga VintageSolage House ROMANCE Alila Napa Valley Auberge du Soleil CarnerosBardessonoResort and Spa Hotel MaisonYountvilleFleurie
2 022 Getties Readers’Choice Local Getaways H2HOTELOFCOURTESYr Healdsburgh2hotel,
Just 45 miles north of San Francisco, Sonoma County covers more than 1,750 square miles, from the rugged Pacific Coast to vineyard-covered rolling hills with over 1,100 growers and more than 350 wineries. It is home to both the state’s oldest continu ously family-run winery, Gundlach Bundschu, which was founded in 1858, as well as Buena Vista, California’s oldest commercial winery, which was founded the year before. But it’s not just about wine. Sonoma County boasts world-class restaurants and spas, and a ghost town — Mercuryville was once home to thousands of miners. Because of a friendly rivalry with its better-known neighbor, local shops’ T-shirts state, “Sonoma makes wine. Napa makes auto parts.”
Consider this your fail-safe guide to the region Readers’ Choice selections are bolded.
Sonoma County Getties
LG | SONOMA GETTIES
—
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 79 BREAKFAST Hank’s Creekside Restaurant River SantéVineatSonoma Mission Inn Sunflower Caffe Washoe House Wild Flour Bread Willow Wood Market Cafe BrewstersLUNCH Beer Garden Canevari’s Delicatessen & Catering JamFolktableJay’s Bungalow ZoftigTheSuperburgerMonti’sParishCaféEatery DINNER CucinaBarndivaParadiso Farmhouse Inn Glen Ellen Star Lazeaway Club, Flamingo Resort Riviera Ristorante The Matheson The Spinster Sisters Valette DESSERTS & TREATS Amy’s Wicked Slush Della Fattoria La Michoacana, Sonoma Noble Folk Ice Cream & Pie Bar Screamin’ StockhomeMimi’s DINING AT THE WINERIES Barber Cellars Snack Attack Bricoleur Vineyards J Vineyards, The Bubble Room Jordan Vineyard & Winery Marimar Estate Vineyards & Winery Medlock Ames SingleThread Pairing St. Francis Winery Three Sticks Eatw (ZOFTIG)TOURISMCOUNTYSONOMAOFCOURTESY(GLEN);STARELLENGLEN(FOLKTABLE);COLEERIKAOFCOURTESY r Glen Ellen Star s Folktable, Sonoma r ZoftigSantaEatery,Rosa
80 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 LG | SONOMA GETTIES PLACEMACARTHUROFCOURTESY Stayw LUXURY Near the Square The Lodge at Sonoma MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa Healdsburg Harmon Guest House Hotel Healdsburg Hotel Les Mars Montage Healdsburg The Madrona Sonoma Coast & Russian River Valley Farmhouse Inn The TimberStavrandCove GROUP GETAWAYS Near the Square Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa The Lodge at Sonoma Glen Ellen Beltane Ranch Healdsburg h2hotel Santa Rosa Flamingo Resort Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country The Sandman Hotel Vintners Resort r MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa, Sonoma
FALL 2022 LOCAL GETAWAYS 81 COUNTRYWINESONOMAREGENCYHYATTOFCOURTESY SAN DOMENICO SCHOOL Independent, K-12, Day and Boarding • San Anselmo, CA 380 9-12 Total Enrollment Minutes N orth of San Francisco30 25 Countries Represented Sonoma Coast & Russian River Valley BodegaAutoCampBay Lodge Dawn Ranch VALUE Beltane Ranch Flamingo Resort Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza Inn at Sonoma Jack London Lodge Olea Hotel The Astro The Sandman Hotel SPA & WELLNESS Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa Farmhouse Inn Gaige House Hotel Healdsburg Kenwood Inn & Spa The Lodge at Sonoma Montage Healdsburg Vintners Resort ROMANCE El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa Harmon Guest House Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza Hotel Les Mars Inn at Sonoma Kenwood Inn & Spa MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa r Hyatt Regency, Santa Rosa
STOCKADBOEDANIEL/
By Jim Wood
Coit Tower
82 LOCAL GETAWAYS FALL 2022 LG | YESTERDAY
COIT TOWER, A 20-STORY REIN FORCED CONCRETE tower high atop Telegraph Hill is a staple of San Francisco’s skyline. So why, how and when did it get there? If nothing else, Lillie Hitchcock Coit was a character. As a teen ager, she witnessed volunteers of Knickerbocker Engine Company Number 5 respond to a fire and, when their shorthanded crew couldn’t make the steep climb up Telegraph Hill, she recruited bystanders who helped push the equipment up the steep grade. From then on she was “Firebelle Lil,” the engine company’s mascot and, in her mid-thirties, was made an hon orary member of Engine Company Number 5.
Adding to her colorful lifestyle, once she divorced Howard Coit, Lillie was known to smoke cigars, wear pants and gamble in the par lors of nearby North Beach. Lillie had a handsome inheritance which, when she died in 1929, was partially directed to the beautification of San Francisco, the city she loved. Shortly thereafter, a group of city fathers decided that a tall tower on Telegraph Hill would best serve Lillie’s desire. Hence, San Francisco has its Coit CompletedTower.in1933, Coit Tower rises 210 feet into the city’s impres sive skyline as a quintessential example of Art Deco architecture. (All sources insist it was not designed to resemble the nozzle of a fire hose as many urban legends claim.) The 360-degree view from the top deck of Coit Tower, reached via an almost 90-year-old elevator, includes Angel, Alcatraz and Treasure Islands; the Golden Gate, Oakland-San Francisco Bay and Richmond-San Rafael Bridges; and cities and mountains from Marin to Berkeley to Oakland and all of San Francisco. If the panoramic view from Coit Tower is spectacular, the 25 Social Realism murals lining its inside walls are colorful and engaging. They show Depression-era San Francisco at both work and play. Docent-led tours operate on a regular basis and give insight as to their artists and the scenesCoitdepicted.Toweris open daily from 10am to 6pm at 1 Telegraph Hill. sfrecpark.org
