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CONTRIBUTORS EDITOR Calum Donoghue GUEST EDITOR
Jayne Gage CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
FOOD EDITOR
CONTENT CONSULTANT
Vincent Nuzzolese
Theo Tritsarolis
Ashleigh Togher
MOTION WRITER
FASHION DIRECTOR
TECH EDITOR
Anthony Garnham
Marcos Batuecas
Anthony Francis
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8 / WEST HOLLYWOOD The London West Hollywood / Pono Burger / The Abbey 12 / QH QUESTIONABLES The Style Hunter Luigi Irauzqui 14 / CUISINE Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel Air / The Belvedere at The Peninsula Beverly Hills 16 / BEVERLY HILLS The best cigar and whiskey bars 18 / SANTA MONICA Hotel Shangri-La 19 / QH QUESTIONABLES Dancer and choreographer Locky Brownlie 28 / BIG SUR Glen Oaks Big Sur 34 / MENDOCINO The Inn at New Port Ranch / Packard House / Brewery Gulch Inn / Lula Cellars 44 / BERKELEY Claremont Club & Spa, A Fairmont Hotel 46 / SAN FRANCISCO Clift Hotel / Bellota / MKT Restaurant
PHOTO: LOCKY BROWNLIE BY CALUM DONOGHUE
CONTENTS
WELCOME
QUEL HOMME / ISSUE 4 / CALIFORNIA
EDITOR’S JOURNAL It’s the home of sunshine, tanning, celebrity chefs, movie stars, healthy living and did I mention sunshine? California is one of the most diverse destinations on Earth and a drive up along her exhilarating coast is at the top of most peoples bucket lists. Myself and Guest Editor, Jayne Gage, took to the wheel of a white convertible Mustang (we revelled in the cliche) and drove north from LA to Mendocino, then back down to San Francisco. On our journey we gorged on Californian fare, slept in heavenly hotels, danced with the locals and gasped at the beauty of the sunset as it dipped into the Pacific Ocean. This is the QH guide to the Golden State, so sit back as we take a deep dive not only into the rooftop pools but the best restaurants, bars, hotels and vineyards.
@calumdonoghue
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PHOTO: CALUM DONOGHUE BY JAYNE GAGE
Welcome to…
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
WEST HOLLYWOOD
PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
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STAY
THE LONDON WEST HOLLYWOOD words by Jayne Gage
The charming staff welcome us through to check in and we are soon whisked up to our suite. Part of the Premier Suite Collection, our new home is the epitome of ‘spacious’ with two bedrooms, huge living room, bathrooms with todie-for bath tubs and a kitchenette. Designed by the late David Collins, the interiors are chic with muted colours and rich fabrics.
colours and rich fabrics. Blues, greys and whites feature throughout the suite with plenty of areas to unwind with a glass of Californian wine. With one of the most iconic rooftop pools in LA, there is no better choice to spend an afternoon sunbathing, sipping cocktails with panoramic views of the city. If there is a small group of you make sure you reserve one of the cute cabanas to allow for a bit more privacy. Adjacent to the pool is Boxwood on the Roof, with low comfy seating to enjoy an aperitif before heading out to dinner. www.thelondonwesthollywo od.com
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
The first stop on the QH road trip of California starts at the heart of Los Angeles. Pulling up to the London West Hollywood it soon becomes apparent why WeHo locals and visitors to California come time and time again to savour in the cool and stylish vibes of this modern favourite.
STAY PONO BURGER WEST HOLLYWOOD words by Calum Donoghue
Tucked around the corner from the London West Hollywood is a burger joint gem from Chef Makani. Pono Burger is a cool hide out serving organic burgers oozing with flavour. Ingredients are sourced from small, California family farms and ranches that care deeply about the quality of their products and the global impacts of their methods. Our pick on the menu is the Paniolo burger with smoked cheddar, Niman Ranch bacon, pale ale battered buttermilk onion rings and Kona coffee bourbon BBQ sauce. www.ponoburger.com
THE ABBEY
When it gets to cocktail hour h e a d t o o n e o f We s t Hollywood’s institutions, The Abbey. The iconic hotspot has been serving cocktails for 25 years, led by David Cooley. The good looking guys behind the bar have a sass and twinkle in their eye. Prepare to have a fun night of dancing.
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
www.theabbeyweho.com
QH QUESTIONABLES:
THE STYLE
HUNTER Editor Calum Donoghue meets Luigi Irauzqui, the Style Editor of Harper’s Bazaar Interiors and the man behind the interior design of Hollywood’s biggest stars homes, including A-Listers Drew Barrymore, Reese Witherspoon, Ben Stiller and Christina Ricci. Luigi took some time from the production of his new show ‘The Style Hunter’ to chat interiors, LA and how to pull off a fabulous party.
What recommendations do you have for QH readers visiting Los Angeles? ‘Farm to table’ is a concept that's very much in vogue in LA specially for those picky eaters like me. Los Angeles has one of the most dynamic dining scenes in the country: everything from street, international and award winning food. Restaurants by Nobu Matsuhisa to Thomas Keller’s Bouchon to Mario Batali’s Osteria Mozza and Spacca to new comers Michael Voltaggio’s Ink and Travis Lett’s Gjelina. But I’m still a huge fan of Old Hollywood and love local landmarks like Tower Bar, Mastro’s and Madeo’s where I know the food will always be as good as the people watching. In Malibu Mastro’s Ocean Club has become a popular hangout for the Beverly Hills crowd that want to get away from the city. My other favourites in Malibu are Nobu, Geoffrey’s and the newly opened Soho House with the most spectacular views and breathtaking sunsets in California. Any hotel recommendations? In 2016 Los Angeles had the fastest growing rate of hotelroom-demand of any major US market. With such demand growth in mind, developers continue to build independent and chain properties in greater Los Angeles and the beaches. Among the newer hotels, the recently opened Kinney in Venice is a contemporary hotel that is the epitome of Venice: casual, trendy, beachy and very close to all the shopping on the very fashionable Abbott Kinney. At the beach, Shutters on the Beach continues to be a personal favourite of mine as well as Casa Del Mar and the Huntley with it’s 360 degree view bar of Santa Monica on the top floor. Another trendy spot in Downtown Los Angeles is Hotel Figueroa that had extensive renovations and is now transformed from a women’s hostel in the 20’s into a glamorous Old Hollywood spot with various bars and restaurants. But people still like to stay off the Sunset Strip… whether the Chateau Marmont with it’s old Hollywood charm to the modern contemporary Mondrian and the London with it’s roof top pool and bird’s eye view of Los Angeles. The newly renovated Hotel Bel Air is still a favourite of many Angelenos and who hasn’t enjoyed a cocktail and a Hollywood story at the Polo Lounge in the matriarchs of hotels: The Beverly Hills Hotel
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You must have seen some of the most beautiful parts of the world, what countries have inspired your designs? I was raised in South America and Europe and my influences in design are clearly from those two extreme opposite parts of the world. I am a big fan of clean lines, and I like to play with contradictions, hence why I am obsessed with Los Angeles: m i x i n g contemporary furniture with antiques with a generous use of colour and texture: traditional yet bold but modern. My extensive travels around the globe greatly influence and inspire my design choices for my interior projects. From the rich colours of Morocco characterised by vibrant colours and opulent furnishings to the laid-back, effortless, relaxed, and incredibly sophisticated beachy feel of the homes in Australia, I use my travel experiences to inspire a truly timeless and unique home for my clients: serene, colourful, eclectic yet luxurious, intimate and inviting. Travelling forces me to engage with a new environment and offers perspective and puts my mind in a highly creative mode. I have to say that travelling is my main source of creativity and inspiration and among my favourites are Peru, Turkey, Spain, Hong Kong, Oman and Brazil. Tell us about The Style Hunter? The Style Hunter was a pseudonym given to me in the design world from years of travelling around the world, from trade show to trade show, shooting for different lifestyle and design magazines in the most eclectic and exciting cities in the world and working with the most prestigious photographers, the best stylists and the most demanding clients and celebrities internationally. The Style Hunter is in the quest of objects, places and people that embody the essence of global style and design and the hunt for undiscovered design treasures old and new. In development as we speak, a show will follow me around the globe meeting the most fascinating and creative forces in the world of fashion and design and visit the hottest travel destinations before they become the next best thing. The Style Hunter is the quintessential Renaissance Man and people around the world reacted very quickly and
world reacted very quickly and positively on social media and being appointed Style Editor for Harper's Bazaar Interiors gave me and The Style Hunter a platform on which to reach a greater audience. TV was just the natural next step. How would you describe your personal home style? I am often asked this question and the first thing I always say is that my ultimate goal is to turn blank spaces into amazing spaces, keeping an open mind and always try new things. Because my orientation hasn’t come from formal training, I’m always relying on my sense of aesthetics and my curiosity for colour. I like using art and mixing it up: traditional, sketches, black and white photographs, antiques and whatever fits the space. ‘Eclectic modern chic’ is the phrase I use to describe my interior design concept. Houses do not have to be boring. I don’t want my house to be so sterile that you can’t live in it. At the same time, it has to be luxurious, have textures and colours, but be liveable and practical. It has to be inviting and intimate. But most importantly, it has to reflect my personality. You like to keep an open mind when it comes to your creative process, do you challenge yourself to make each project unique? Each project is about the process. It starts with looking at the space and figuring out what it is that you want to create and it is vital to the design process that there is total partnership with the client. Great design comes through collaboration and dialogue and to build great projects you need to rely on your team: from the drafting stage, to architecture to putting together a construction crew. Trends and styles are always changing, we are always finding ways to remain innovative but in interior design there are no constants: remaining in a constant state of reinvention in design is always
reinvention in design is always a challenge. As a designer, you always want to evolve but after so many years in this industry my clients come to me with a definite style in mind: a style that has become my trademark. But as a creative mind I always want to push boundaries to achieve something unique in every project I am involved in. What are some of your favourite trends you are seeing at the minute? The biggest trend for 2017 is all about texture, texture, texture…. Texture in every form, from brushed brass tables to light fixtures to fabrics and wallpapers. From throws, rugs, carpets, sofas….you name it, tartan and checks, geometric patterns and bold prints….a return to the masculine. My favourite colour grey was a prominent colour in all the shows and it will only get stronger in 2017. All different tones: grey and white, grey in deeper colours. Grey is the sort of colour that complements a full spectrum of shade. Another big trend in colour is jewel tones: everything from vibrant greens, purples and ruby reds mixed with whites and blues. A mixture of romance and Bohemian. What are some of your top tips for entertaining at home? There are a few simple rules that I follow that have never let me down. The most important one is all about the guest list. Spending time on your list and getting a good chemistry all around is vital. Generate excitement leading to the party with updates and messages to your guests. Get the word out. It isn’t a party if no one comes. A ‘save the date’ well ahead of time will catch your guests’ attention and create anticipation. Develop a loose theme for the party so that the guests can dress accordingly and create a distinctive atmosphere by establishing a look and feel: the décor is definitely something without music is just a wake!
décor is definitely something that the guests will remember afterwards. Decide ahead of time if you want it to be intimate versus grand. Another very important tip for a successful party is to delegate! Get help….you can’t do it all on your own. The more the hands the better. This way you actually get to enjoy your own party. Then there is the matter of why people really come to a party: booze, food and music. Have you ever been to a party where they’ve run out of bubbles? Run out of alcohol and the fun will go with it! Always buy more than you need. After all alcohol never goes bad. Anticipate where guests will mingle and congregate and make sure you have enough space. There is nothing worse than being in a cramped space at a party. Make a master list and make sure all the details are ticked: do you have enough plates, glasses, cutlery, food, drinks? Also, nothing will spoil a good party like grumpy neighbours. Before planning a party either invite them or advise them on the going-ons. And make sure that they know the music will be going on ‘till late. Music is very important to the ambience and flow of the party. A party without music is just a wake!
CUISINE
WOLFGANG PUCK AT HOTEL BEL AIR
words by Jayne Gage
Hidden away in the curved hedge lined streets of Bel Air is one of the most iconic hotels in California. The luxury hideaway, which has opened its doors to the biggest Hollywood stars in history, is home to celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck and a truly unforgettable dining experience. Crossing over the exquisite Swan Lake and through the stunning paradise gardens is the Californian oasis Hotel Bel Air. Nestled in 12 acres of landscaped gardens, the enchanting restaurant has the most magical atmosphere, with cosy alcoves for an intimate dining experience. From the moment you enter the restaurant prepare to be blown away, not just by the Californian cuisine but by the incredible staff who really know how to make each and every guest feel special. It is the perfect place to indulge in an evening of heavenly treats and to start we devour a round of exquisite oysters and savour some perfectly
and savour some perfectly cold champagne. For the main my partner and I share a tender 35 day aged prime steak which was a taste sensation. We follow our steak with two delectable desserts: the chocolate hazelnut with mousse, praline creme, salted fudge brownie and burnt salted caramel ice cream; and the pear cobbler with hazelnut shortcake, plumped cranberries and honey cardamom ice cream. After dinner we are treated to a tour of the restaurant including the spectacular private dining room with large marbled fireplace adjacent to a glassed wall of impressive wine. We head back to our table and end the evening with Pepino’s Revenge, a tantalising cocktail of Patrón Silver Tequila, Japanese cucumber, fresh basil and lime juice. Heaven in a glass. www.dorchestercollection.co m
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THE BELVEDERE AT THE PENINSULA The highly anticipated opening of The Belvedere at The Peninsula Beverly Hills saw the city’s culinary credentials catapult at the start of 2016. The restaurant has striking new interiors and a full transformation of the menu. Building on a rich, 25-year history of exceptional cuisine, the re-imagined menu, under the direction of Executive Chef David C o d n e y, n o w f e a t u r e s Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and wild-caught seafood. During a visit to the restaurant, Chef Codney was kind enough to step out of the kitchen to say hello as myself and guest sipped the hotel’s cooling Garden G&T. It was soon clear that he has as much personality and charm as his enchanting dishes and speaks of such
dishes and speaks of such passion when talking on the ingredients he chooses for his menus. The chef kindly selected our menu for the evening and we start with tasty Hope Ranch County mussels, and a crab flatbread served with confit tomatoes and garlic aioli. The star of the show is served next as a magnificent plate of duck confit orecchiette with sundries tomatoes, which was pure perfection on a dish. For the entrees we enjoy wild dover sole with macron almonds and an 8oz. beef filer mignon. Some how we were able to squeeze in two sweet treats; a mint chocolate parfait and a chocolate layer cake with chocolate liqueur ice cream. What a way to end a fabulous evening. www.peninsula.com and savour some perfectly
TOP 5 CIGAR WHISKY BARS AND
IN…
BEVERLY
HILLS
1
£10 at MONTAGE BEVERLY HILLS Tucked away discreetly above the recently launched Georgie restaurant, inside Montage Beverly Hills hotel, £10 is a dark and intimate luxurious bar that welcomes true connoisseurs from all corners of the globe for the world’s most precious whisky, The Macallan Single Malt.
choice of four different types of ice, but the most notable being a single ice sphere of water, imported from the Scottish Highlands. By reservation only, this lounge is one of the most exclusive in the world. Only the finest handcrafted finishings have been used to create the luxury interiors, including Lalique crystal barware, light fixtures, exotic wood details and an intricately carved Lalique crystal doorknob.
Guests come to sample and savour The Macallan’s rarest and most prized expressions – some aged as long as 62 years – served by Head Barman, Cash Black. £10 delivers an unforgettable experience as b a r t e n d e r s p r e s e n t T h e w w w. m o n t a g e h o t e l s . c o m / Macallan authentically, hand beverlyhills pouring the whisky over a choice of four different types of
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3
THE BUENA VISTA CIGAR CLUB This cigar lounge has become a favourite of locals and visitors to the city, with its distinctive environment offering an extraordinary variety of carefully-selected tobacco products.
Owner Rigo Fernandez has a true passion for cigars and has created this gentleman’s club style lounge, with a rustic aesthetic that has true character and charm. Allow the team to handpick a cigar from their carefully chosen selection, suited to the visitor’s preferred taste. For added privacy, a more exclusive area upstairs has comfortable seating to sit back and enjoy.
4
www.lovebeverlyhills.com/stores/view/buena-vista-cigar-club
GRAND HAVANA CLUB The members only club has their flagship location in Beverly Hills which, since its inception in April 1995, has set the standard that high-end cigar clubs are measured by. Located on the corner of Dayton Way and Canon Drive in the heart of Beverly Hills, every element of the Grand Havana Room has been designed for the explicit purpose of maximising the enjoyment of the cigar smoker. The centerpiece of the club is the humidor, a glassed-in room that contains 350 blonde-wood lockers, packed from floor to ceiling. The etched brass nameplates on the private cigar lockers read like a who’s who of the entertainment world. Actors, producers, directors, and agents all store their cigars in a wrap-around wall of cedar keeps, some of which can be reached only by a ladder. These drawers contain bundles of cigars, lovingly collected and carefully maintained, of brands both elusive and exclusive. Some of the rarest cigars are available from the Grand Havana humidor, including Fuente’s Opus X, La Gloria Cubana, and the Indian brand cigar. www.grandhavana.com
THE CLUB BAR AT
2
THE PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS
Dark wood panels made of California birch and the deep leather chairs that circle the wide fireplace create a traditional yet timeless ambience, reminiscent of an elegant gentleman's club with a drinks list of rare single malt whiskies. Sit at the bar or take a table for a signature Peninsula cocktail and observe how this dignified enclave blossoms into a lively nightspot. www.beverlyhills.peninsula.com
5
KRAMERS PIPE & TOBACCO SHOP
Founded in 1949, Kramers Pipe & Tobacco Shop continues the tradition of blending tobacco by hand and by the pound (not by the barrel) to the individual taste. Hollywood "royalty" and loyal regulars have helped Kramers to develop their most popular specialty blends, but the mission to provide a unique product as well as individual service remains a proven commitment. www.kramerstobaccoshop.com
STAY
words by Calum Donoghue
Having spent a couple of days in the city its time to head to the coast. Rooftop down, sun shining, a drive to Santa Monica’s coast ends pulling up outside Hotel Shangri-La which has one of the most enviable locations on Ocean Avenue.
appointed in a lavish maritime style with a master designer’s eye for detail. From luxury beds and bedding to L'Occitane bath products, deep soaking tubs and Frette robes, the vision is a space fit for sheer indulgence.
Welcomed by Adrienne Miley, Chief Concierge at Hotel Shangri-La, who is a pure treasure and showed us around the beautiful hotel. Our room has gorgeous views of the beach and ocean, which at sunset makes for the perfect setting to enjoy a cocktail.
Make sure you head out on a push bike and take a ride along the beach before you leave the area or visit the Santa Monica pier, opposite the hotel.
Emulating a luxury ocean liner’s first-class staterooms, Hotel Shangri-La’s rooms and suites have been appointed in a lavish
www.slh.com/shangrila
Book a stay at Hotel Shangri-La with Small Luxury Hotels of the World .
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
HOTEL SHANGRI-LA
STAY
QH
QUESTIONABLES
This Australian living in LA has travelled the world as a dancer and choreographer. QH caught up with Locky Brownlie in Santa Monica to chat style, staying in shape and guilty pleasures… Locky was shot by Calum Donoghue on location at Hotel Shangri-La, Santa Monica
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PHOTO: AKA LOCKY BEVERLY BROWNLIE HILLS BY CALUM DONOGHUE
Instagram: lockybrownlie Youtube: Locky Brownlie
PHOTO: LOCKY BROWNLIE BY CALUM DONOGHUE
PHOTO: LOCKY BROWNLIE BY CALUM DONOGHUE
Tell us about your home town Tasmania, what should QH readers do when they visit? Where do I start? Tasmania has so much to offer from its breathtaking scenery to the award winning restaurants. Tasmania is quickly becoming one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. How do you stay in shape? Talk us through your typical work out for the week. I spend a lot of time in the gym but I also take the time to make sure what I’m eating is clean and my food is high in protein. My trainer (@SmithproFitness) has taught me that no matter how hard you work out in the gym if you’re not eating clean you won’t gain muscle and get the results you are looking for. You have travelled a lot for your work as a dancer, where have been come of your favourite places to visit? This is the hardest question I get asked quite a bit. I’m going to give you continents, because breaking down into cities after touring the world twice is literally impossible. Europe is definitely top of the list with it’s amazing history everywhere you look and then South America comes next with it’s incredible food, wine and people. Where should we go out? There are some really cute restaurants and bars that have j u s t o p e n e d u p i n We s t Hollywood. Definitely check out Delilah, part of the h-wood Group, its a beautiful 1920’s style restaurant and lounge bar. Also just opened is the Peppermint Club - h-wood Group in partnership with Interscope Records have combined
combined to bring you live music and great cocktails with a 1960’s style vibe. Another one to check out is Sweetfin Poké. One of the best Poké options in LA and the new location on 3rd and Crescent Heights is right in the heart of West Hollywood. What is your biggest guilty pleasure? My cheat day, normally on a Sunday, Dominos Pizza and icecream. Describe your personal style? Has it changed since moving to LA? My style is pretty simple. I wear a lot of black. The tighter the tshirt the better I feel. Ha! What do you consider your best feature? My ass. If you could re-live one day in your life what day would that be? If I could relive anything it would have to be the first gig I did with Katy Perry in Madrid for the EMA’s. It was my first job with anyone of that caliber and I had no idea what to expect. I would love to relive that first rehearsals with Katy, where she met us all for the first time, I would also like to relive the actual performance. Dancing outside in front of 10,000 plus people was just magical. It was where my journey with Katy began. Who influences you the most? I had some amazing teachers and mentors who influenced me a lot growing up. They knew how to steer me in the right direction of the things I wanted to achieve. Career wise I was influenced heavily by Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire. Watching these men dance, perform and partner was such an eye opener for me as a young boy aspiring to make a career in dance.
PHOTO: LOCKY BROWNLIE BY CALUM DONOGHUE
How long have you lived in West Hollywood and what made you move to California? I’ve lived in West Hollywood for six years now. I moved to California in hopes to make it in the entertainment industry as a dancer. I guess I can say I succeeded in that.
Welcome to…
BIG SUR
STAY
GLEN OAKS BIG SUR
words by Calum Donoghue
Our first stop on the road is to a hidden woodland duplex cabins, situated amongst centuries old redwoods and within a stone’s throw of the pristine Big Sur River. When the sun sets pull up a wooden recliner and ignite the camp fire to enjoy some sweet s’mors, under the stars and natural wool blankets. The cabin has a handy kitchenette and a cosy bed to get the best nights sleep surrounded by the
surrounded by the enchanting sounds of the woodland. In the morning a walk along the river is just what the doctor ordered, to be finished with a cup of coffee and a doughnut at the Big Sur Roadhouse which features delicious California cuisine with fresh, local ingredients. Glen Oaks Big Sur is perfect for a small group or friends or couples who want to switch off and enjoy natures best gifts. For those not so used to the great outdoors, this is a great option for those who want the best of nature and luxury accommodation. www.glenoaksbigsur.com
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
The drive up the coast from Santa Monica has some of the world’s most beautiful views. Steering around the curves of the jagged coast is an unforgettable experience with so many gems along the way.
STAY
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
A Little Sur Cabin is located in the redwood grove down by the Big Sur River. It is in a very quiet location away from the highway and has a queen size bed, kitchenette, bathroom with heated tile floors and private outdoor fire pit. It is small and cosy and priced at $315 per night.
WE CHOOSE TO DREAM, TO INNOVATE, TO EXCEL. WE CHOOSE TO BE EXCEPTIONAL.
OVERFINCH.COM
40 YEARS OF ENHANCING A BRITISH ICON
Welcome to…
MENDOCINO
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HILLS
THE INN AT
NEWPORT
RANCH There are some places in the world that are so special it is hard to muster the words needed to describe their true wonders. The Inn at New Port Ranch is one of these places, so magical in every way with a deep mystery keeping guests enticed to come back again and again.
Will Jackson, owner of The Inn at Newport Ranch, tells his story of this wonderland in Northern California…
Images courtesy of Dave Mathews and Brendan McGuigan
My family bought the ranch in 1986 as an investment. But as we gradually opened up the logging trails, got to know the land’s nooks and crannies and panoramic views of the magical hills and Pacific Ocean, I fell in love with the place. I began to realise how special and rare it was and that we should keep it for future generations and not sell it. As a whole, my family is not interested in the ranch as much as I am. Like many families, the members have their own interests. However, my family members are all of generous spirit and graciously agreed to the idea of building a small Inn. The purpose of the Inn is to provide income and to be something we might all work on together, and to leave something tangible and beautiful to the generations to come. Thus the Inn at Newport Ranch was born and the planning process began. It took eight years to get a building permit, but that’s another whole story. Choosing architects was easy. I picked Dave Sellers and Jim Sanford of Warren, Vermont. They work as a team and designed my house next to the ranch about 18 years ago. They’re imaginative and great designers. I also chose the same builder, Brent Anderson of Fort Bragg California and the same decorator, Robin Baker of Tucson, Arizona, both of whom did a remarkable job on our house. To begin with, the design of the Inn had to take into consideration the strict rules of the California Coastal Commission. These rules limit new construction to a height of 18’ in the coastal zone. We were able to build the two story core of the main Inn by following exactly the exterior dimensions of the pre-existing two story ranch house. The wings of the Inn were limited to a height of 18’. By lowering the existing grade several feet we were able to increase the height of some of the other buildings above the 18’ limit. There were also limits as to the number and size of the buildings we could have. From the start, we wanted the complex to look like a home and ranch rather than a commercial Inn. There is no check-in desk or office. The courtyard arrangement of the buildings followed the design of historic California coastal ranches such as in Pt Reyes. We tried to take advantage of the views of the hills and ocean
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by having as much glass as possible and still have a homely look. We limited TV’s to a few guest rooms and conference spaces, thinking that our guests would be coming to the ranch to enjoy the beauty of the place and to get away from their usual routines. Some of the unusual building materials which we were able to find had a lot to do with the Inn’s design. The architects and I love rocks as pieces of sculpture. Rocks come in all sizes and shapes and need no maintenance. Inside a home they provide a rustic, earthy feeling and bring the outside inside. Dave Sellers found a fabulous rock yard in Santa Rosa which has rocks of all description and we purchased over 50 tons of them and incorporated them in the buildings. Some were so big they had to be installed before the roof and walls went up. Each rock was hand picked for its uniqueness and beauty without knowing exactly how they would be used. Some were large and bold, others long and flat. Most had interesting shapes and some were basalt columns. We used 20’ long flat stones from a lake bed as pavers and steps and others as hearth stones. The columns ended up delineating our driveway entrance and our fireplaces took the boulders. With the help of the architects, we were able to find big slabs of redwood which, as with the rocks, were bought not knowing exactly how they would be used. Finding these treasures was one of the most exciting and fun parts of the project. One redwood board we bought was 34’ long and about four feet wide, with wild edges. We eventually used it for our banquet table. We wanted to honour the north coast and its redwood forests as much as possible. With this in mind, our architects ordered 25 redwood trees up to 30’ long and 18” in diameter to be used for visible structural elements in the Redwood House. When the trees arrived at the site, low and behold, they were 30” in diameter, not 18” as specified. H o w e v e r, t h e y w e r e s o dramatic that we couldn’t bring ourselves to send them back, even though it made their installation trickier and the rooms smaller. Two of the trees go up through a bathroom which became tighter because of the extra tree girth. So, the ingenious architects and workmen hollowed out a wash basin in one of the trees to save room and used a treated fungus as a soap dish.
The beautiful quaint town of Mendocino, a 35 minute drive south of our Inn, has a multitude of picturesque water towers, icons of the past. We decided that replicating one of those towers for the Inn would add a historic touch and look cool. So we did. Inside our tower is the caterer’s kitchen and on top is a seven person hot tub with a great view of the coast and hills. The hot tub was one of Dave Seller’s best ideas and the guests love it. Much of our furniture was made by Craig Hathaway, a local craftsman. He collects driftwood, gnarled pieces of redwood and big slabs. Robin Baker, our decorator, and I visited Craig’s shop often as there was always something new and different to see. Robin would decide what furniture we needed. Then we’d choose the wood and Craig would create a one of a kind, beautiful table, bench, chair, lamp stand or anything else we asked for. The Inn wouldn’t be the homely place that it is without Robin Baker. She put it all together. She’s a genius with colour, shapes and texture. Creighton and Cindi, our Inn managers, make our guests feel welcome and at home and create memorable experiences for them. For me, one of the most memorable experiences they provided was a barbecue at Council Bluff. In case you haven’t seen it, Council Bluff is an oval shaped arrangement of Santa Rosa rocks placed smack on the edge of the cliff by the ocean. The rocks keep the cattle out and provide flat places to sit and eat. When you’re there, you can’t see another structure. You just see the ranch and ocean. However, i t ’s a l w a y s a l o g i s t i c a l challenge getting the guests in the ATVs with food and drinks. But Creighton, Cindi and the staff pull it off without a hitch. The night I remember the most was magical. We cooked, ate supper, sipped wine and watched the sun set in the Pacific. The sky was a blaze of colour and we lingered for a while. We were a merry bunch going back to the Inn in the dark in the ATVs with the head lights on weaving through the cattle, when all of a sudden, the biggest full moon I’ve ever seen rose up from the hills. It was a night to remember for sure. One evening while the Inn was under construction, but almost finished, we were standing on the steps of the wrap-around porch looking West. It was the evening of the Equinox and as the sun set into the ocean, we 36 / QUEL HOMME / ISSUE 4 / CALIFORNIA
the sun set into the ocean, we noticed it was setting at exactly a 90° angle to the steps. It was unplanned, but fortuitous. We grabbed two stakes and lined them up with the steps and the setting sun. Then, when the summer and winter solstices came along, months later, we marked those sites as well. We now have stone columns from the Santa Rosa rock yard lined up with the porch steps to mark the three astronomical events. We’re happy to explain what the stones mean when asked and it’s fun to have our own mysterious Stonehenge. Another mystery of the ranch is Milo, the cat. Our loyal ranch caretaker, Steve Goleman, lived on the ranch for years and had a cat named Milo who disappeared one day. Steve never knew what happened to Milo until the demolition of the old ranch buildings. Milo was discovered under a shed, completely mummified. All that was left was his leather skin, teeth and a few bones sticking out, but basically, Milo was in one piece and flat as a pancake. In his mummified condition, Milo was too perfect to be trashed, so much to the horror of some of my family members, our talented craftsmen enshrined Milo in Lucite in a hollow part of a giant redwood stump built into the floor of the Inn’s north sitting room. Milo is hidden, but is there for anyone to see by invitation or request. My favourite part of the Inn is the stone walk through, sit in fireplace in the Newport banquet room. I always wanted a fireplace I could sit in and now we have one. Just thinking about sitting in that fireplace on one of the stone seats, the fire going and a glass of wine in my hand makes me smile with contentment. The Inn is built on the site of the pioneer town of Newport, which had a lumber chute, circa 1870. The chute, extending out into the ocean, was an engineering marvel and a few remnants are visible on the cliff. Lumber, milled in the hills, would come down to the chute on oxcarts then, one piece at a time, they were placed on the chute and slid down to waiting schooners for shipment to San Francisco. Parts of the boiler which ran the chute are on display in the Inn. Some of the residents of the town of Newport are buried in a cemetery on our ranch, visible from the Inn. Our guests can hike there. After the chute was abandoned circa
chute was abandoned circa 1885, the town of Newport gradually disappeared, as the residents moved to the mill in Fort Bragg. They took their houses with them. While visiting our Inn, there are many things to do, including horseback riding and hiking our 20 miles of trails, or taking guided ATV tours along our coast and through the redwood hills. The ATVs are comfortable, safe like golf carts, and carry five passengers, a driver and picnic lunches! There is also Seaside beach to explore adjacent to the ranch and a mile south of the Inn. It can easily be reached by car or ATV. The beach is small but has sea stacks, driftwood, crashing surf and is very easy to get to. The beach ends at Ten Mile River and on the south side, MacKerricher State Parks begins with 12 miles of trails along the coast, all the way to Fort Bragg. It’s great for hiking and horseback riding, beautiful and not crowded. Walking that beach is one of my favourite activities. Mendocino village, 20 miles south, with its quaint houses, gardens, galleries, good restaurants and water towers is definitely worth visiting. www.theinnatnewportranch.com
STAY
PACKARD HOUSE words by Jayne Gage
Featuring chic and calming interiors, the property is one of the Blue Door Group which has 19 guest accommodations spread across three Victorian inns, each marked with a distinctive blue front door. Packard House, JD House, and Blue Door Inn are all within a few blocks of one another and host a rotating afternoon wine hour that allows guests a taste of each. Together, the properties combine luxury and historic architecture, accentuated by high ceilings and hand carved mouldings.
The guest rooms are spacious and the communal areas are open and encourage visitors to chat with a glass of wine. There are signature pops of red and bold art pieces and an expansive courtyard with whimsical "dancing man" sculpture. There are two cottages for those who are looking for something a bit more private. They are spacious and come with a patio and private entrance. Before you check out take a good look around the local village, there is a pretty boutique store Honey & Ro stocked with beautiful trinkets and well designed items, perfect to find a souvenir for someone back home. www.bluedoorgroup.com
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
There is something magical about walking through a white picket fence and up to a property one would only dream to live in. Packard House is the epitome of that Americana living you see in old Hollywood movies.
STAY LITTLE RIVER INN After a long drive from LA, take some time to restore at a charming restaurant perched on the Pacific Ocean. The Little River Inn h a s c l a s s i c Vi c t o r i a n architecture which has been welcoming guests for over five decades. The restaurant is always busy with locals and out-oftowners and the staff create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. On the dining room menu, Executive Chef Marc Dym creates dishes including; Osso bucco of lamb; lacquered halibut with crispy Hong Kong noodles; short ribs; and sole meunière made from the Petrale sole that comes into nearby Noyo Harbor. If you get to The Little River Inn during the day, take some time with a beer in hand to look out at the water with a pair of binoculars within Ole’s Whale Watch Bar. If you are not quite hungry enough for a full dinner there is a lighter menu in the bar which has tasty dishes like Dungeness crab ravioli in sweet pea puree and Little River Inn’s classic fried calamari with Asian slaw.
THE ABBEY
When it gets to cocktail hour h e a d t o o n e o f We s t Hollywood’s institutions, The Abbey. The iconic hotspot has been serving cocktails for 25 years, led by David Cooley. The good looking guys behind the bar have a sass and twinkle in their eye. Prepare to have a fun night of dancing.
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
www.littleriverinn.com
STAY BREWERY GULCH INN words by Calum Donoghue
The inn is highly respectful of its neighbouring nature with the local ponds kept clean and conducive to plant and animal life through a system of natural rock filtration requiring no chemical additives. As you drive in you can see the wetland restoration is visible just past the water tower. It can be accessed by several trails which meander through the woodland gardens. The inn provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to enjoy a sense of calm, and time spent here is all about switching off your mobiles and laptops and enjoying quality time with those you are travelling with. Board games, walks around the woodland and a slice of home made maple pie make this a perfect respite.
home made pecan pie make this a perfect respite. Guest rooms and common areas feature details highlighting the subtle beauty of the redwood’s warmth and character; each timber is different and exhibits the warm red, purple or blonde tones. A soaring glass and steelfaced wood-burning fireplace, and an impressive two-story skylight match the exceptional food and wine available. Brewery Gulch Inn lives up to this expectation with a focus on o rg a n i c s a n d t h e b e s t regional produce and products. Guests are treated each morning to an outstanding cooked-to-order breakfast. The evening’s wine hour includes a light dinner buffet and carefully chosen wines and beers. The ten individual guest rooms, eight with private redwood decks, have an ocean view with a two-room suite with views out over the meadows, all fitted with a big tub, gas fireplace, and a cozy seating area. www.brewerygulchinn.com
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
When you reach Smuggler’s Cove it’s time to stop and savour some of Mother Nature’s best gifts. Brewery Gulch Inn is located on three acres encompassing mature pine trees, redwoods, hundreds of rhododendrons, and many native plants. The building itself features ancient virgin redwood timbers eco-salvaged from Mendocino’s Big River.
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY PHOTOGRAPHY courtesyHILLS of Brewery Gulch Inn / Jay Graham
STAY
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
STAY
STAY LULA CELLARS MENDOCINO words by Calum Donoghue
As you enter through the field gates onto the Lula Cellars grounds you are greeted by the big brown eyes and blonde hair of Honey. She comes up to your car window to say “hello” then shows you down the curved gentle slope to find a parking space. She then barks to let her owners know that company is here. Honey is a gorgeous Labrador Retriever.
Our welcome could not have been made more special and the kind hospitality continued as we pulled up a stool to the wooden counter ready for our first sip of the spectacular Californian wine at Lula Cellars. Winemaker Jeff Hansen talks us through the limited production of the vineyard and his twenty eight years making wines both in Mendocino and the Napa Valley. With a yearly production of over 3000 cases, comprised of Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, D r y G e w u r z t r a m i n e r, Sauvignon Blanc and Rosato (Rosé of Pinot Noir), Lula Cellars produces wines entirely from vineyards in Mendocino County. The goal is simple: to produce world class wines to be sold directly to consumers at prices that are reasonable.
THE ABBEY
When it gets to cocktail hour h e a d t o o n e o f We s t Hollywood’s institutions, The Abbey. The iconic hotspot has been serving cocktails for 25 years, led by David Cooley. The good looking guys behind the bar have a sass and twinkle in their eye. Prepare to have a fun night of dancing.
www.lulacellars.com
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PHOTO: courtesy of Brendan McGuigan
This is a truly charming place which all California road-trippers must stop in and taste the unique production of wine, or even just to give a cuddle to Honey.
PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
Having tried the spectacular wines Jeff and his team have produced, we take a walk around some of the grounds where Jeff tells us that the name of the cellars comes from his maternal grandmother Lula, who was born in 1879 and lived to the age of 89.
STAY Welcome to…
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
BERKELEY & SAN FRANCISCO
STAY
CLAREMONT CLUB & SPA, A FAIRMONT HOTEL
Conveniently located in the heart of Berkeley, the hotel is only a 20-minute drive from downtown San Francisco and offers endless activities and a rejuvenating spa. For tennis lovers there are 10 courts to play and for foodies the fabulous signature restaurant features xxxxxx
both local fare and artisanal ingredients sourced from around the U.S. Originally a romantic castle at the start of the Gold Rush and later a grand hotel, this exclusive resort is rich with history and tradition. The guest rooms have brilliant wide sweeping views across the San Francisco Bay. Save some time to chill by the pool or make use of The Claremont Club, which offers a luxurious Day Spa and Salon. If the Bay Area fog is blocking the sun there is a huge chess set to play on and the afternoon tea provides a sweet treat. w w w. f a i r m o n t . c o m / claremont-berkeley
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
Overlooking the San Francisco Bay, Claremont Club & Spa in Berkeley opened its doors in 1915 and has 276 beautifully appointed rooms - a mix of old world charm and California comfort. You can see the iconic Claremont Tower as you drive towards the property and when you reach the entrance the hotel’s Canine Ambassador, Edie, gives you a happy welcome.
STAY
CLIFT HOTEL SAN FRANCISCO For those of you who are heading to stay in San Francisco for a few nights and looking for something a bit more contemporary then head to the Clift Hotel. Designed by Philippe Starck and Ian Schrager, the quirky lobby has striking art, a giant chair, and colourful seating which is a nice contrast to the purple pastels and white of the rooms. The hotel’s 372 luxury guest rooms feature furniture custom-designed by Starck. English sycamore is accented by velvet, leather and chrome throughout. A wooden “wheelbarrow” chair inspired by Man Ray is illuminated by a custom Venetian Murano glass lamp. Here the historic Red Room is the main event, which has
is the main event, which has been restored and reinvented as an exceptionally elegant and modern San Francisco bar. The interior features an enormous etched glass bar and the original redwood paneling, which, legend has it, was carved from a single redwood tree, as well as Starck-designed lounge furniture and an everchanging array of digital artwork displayed on plasma television screens hung throughout the room. The cocktails are fabulous and the gourmet bites are perfect before heading out on the town. Steps from Union Square shopping and the legendary Nob Hill, Clift is great for sightseeing and shopping. www.morganshotelgroup.co m
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PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
words by Jayne Gage
STAY BELLOTA SAN FRANCISCO words by Calum Donoghue
This has to be, in our humble opinion, one of the best restaurants in San Francisco, if not California. Inspired by the regional cuisines and traditions of Spain, Bellota’s Executive Chef Ryan McIlwraith has created an eclectic menu of meats grilled on a woodfired hearth, inventive paellas, Old World stews, fresh seafood, and to die for tapas. The vibe is fun, buzzing and open plan so you can see all in the room. The Spanishfocused cocktail menu includes the must try gin based Comillas, with chrysanthemum and manzanilla sherry, and Mas Antiguo, which is made with tequila, bourbon, nocino, cinnamon and amontillado sherry.
If there are two of you make sure you try one of the paellas, which you can choose to be divided so you can try different types cooked in one pan. On the side, the best dish is the roasted cauliflower with queso-chili dip and from the tapas make sure you choose the creamy clam & seaurchin fritter with seaweed powder.
Located on the fifth floor of Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco, MKT Restaurant has a retro urban-chic atmosphere in the SoMa district, next to Yerba Buena Gardens.
With a mix of both industrial and hand-crafted design elements, the 140seat dining room captures the surrounding urban cityscape and channels an airy, Mediterranean setting. The space invites you to relax with live music at the 30-seat full bar and lounge, host events in the private dining area, or enjoy frontrow seating around the open kitchen with a custom hearth, the heart and soul of Bellota. www.bellotasf.com
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MKT RESTAURANT AT FOUR SEASONS SAN FRANCISCO
The menu is all about sustainable seafood and creative handcrafted cocktails with a pretty impressive panoramic view of Market Street and downtown. Chef de Cuisine Esteban Soria cooks up a California-inspired menu of seafood, steaks and small plates. www.mktrestaurantandbar.c om
PHOTO: AKA BEVERLY HILLS
The décor of MKT takes inspiration from the city’s legendary publishing history, and shares the same location, at the corner of Market Street and 3rd, as the original Hearst building. The interiors have brushed brass detailing, dark oak floors, vinyl coverings, and accents of ink bottles and type-setting block letters – harkening back to old printing presses.