Spring 2022 by Locale Magazine

Curtis Stone

AN INSIDE LOOK AT:

COMPLIMENTS TO THE CHEF

H E AV Y M E TA

P G . 50

»BREAKING DOWN THE

WORLD OF NFTS WITH AV E N G E D S E V E N F O L D ’ S M. SHADOWS

123

the foodie issue

THE FL AVOR-PACKED ALMANAC FOR FOODIES ACROSS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA P G . 59

PLUS

L A SPAS THAT’LL SOAK AWAY THE EVERYDAY STRESSES

REASONS TO VISIT THIS 10,500ACRE DUDE RANCH IN SOLVANG

HEALTH TIPS FROM THE ULTIMATE HYPE WOMAN

MAUDE BEVERLY HILLS, CA

Contributor Call Out PHOTO BY:

TRAVIS MCCOY www.travismccoy.com @Travis_McCoy_Photography Profile - Heavy Meta Avenged Sevenfold avengedsevenfold.io | @avengedsevenfold DATE TAKEN: 12.17.21 20 LOCALE MAGAZINE

LOCALE MAGAZINE 21

www.localemagazine.com • @localemagazine

THE TEAM ERIK HALE Publisher + Founder erik@localemagazine.com | @local_e ASHLEY SMITH COO + Co-Founder ashley@localemagazine.com | @ashleyelainexo REILLY HEINE Art Director + Co-Owner reilly@localemagazine.com | @localereilly | @reillyek EDITORIAL KAYLIN WAIZINGER Senior Editor kaylin@localemagazine.com | @kaylinwaizinger TAYLOR GORSKI Senior Editor taylor@localemagazine.com | @taylorgorski CHRIS HUGHES Copy Editor chris@hughescopywriting.com DESIGN VICENTE MARTÍ SOL AR Illustrator vicentemartisolar@gmail.com PRODUCTION L AUREN LEWELLEN Production Manager laurenl@localemagazine.com | @lauren__lewellen SALES & MARKETING MIKE TODD SMITH Vice President of Sales & Marketing mts@localemagazine.com | @miketoddsmith JASON KOSKY Sr. Market Manager jason@localemagazine.com | @locale_jason DANIELLE TROTTER Advertising Partnerships Manager danielle@localemagazine.com | @duhhhitsdanielle SAM PERRY Social Media Manager samantha@localemagazine.com | @graceperry_ FINANCE VALERIE KERR Accountant accounting@localemagazine.com

THE CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS Allie Lebos allieandla.com | @allielebos Alyssa Burlingame akburlingame.wixsite.com/portfolio | @alyssa.burlingame Ameihia Turingan iridescentglimmer.wordpress.com | @ameihia Christian Waizinger @cwaizz Crystal Harrell crystalharrell.com | @theaugustvc Gennah Nicole themermaidmethod.com | @gennahnicole Jaclyn Keagy jaclynkeagy.myportfolio.com | @jaaclyn Jane Adler domainbyjane.com | @janemcgradler Jennifer Pellerito jenontherun.com | @jp_ontherun Jordan Nishkian wordsbyjordan.com | @wordsbyjordan Joy Sun @littlejoybigworld Kandace Cornell kandacecornellcopy.com | @lachicamericaine Leslie Gonzalez @lesliegu2 Lynne Eodice eodiceimages.smugmug.com | @lynneeodice Reyes Baca exploreytion.weebly.com | @exploreytion PHOTOGRAPHERS Charlie Chipman charliechipman.com | @charliechipman George Duchannes duchannes.com | @georgeduchannes Jared Schlachet + Joe Magnani jsquaredphotography.com | @j2pix John Glover johnglover.photography | @jgloverphotography Kambria Fischer kambriafischer.com | @kambria_fischer_photo Nathan Cox nathancoxstudios.com | @nathancoxstudios Niki Cram nikicram.com | @nikicram Travis McCoy travismccoy.com | @travis_mccoy_photography FASHION ST YLISTS Shawn Holoubek for Elizabeth & Prince elizabethandprince.com | @elizabeth_and_prince BEAUT Y ST YLISTS Danielle Brucklacher faceandhaircandy.com | @daniellestyleshair Jessica deBen jessicadeben.com | @jessdoesmymakeup

*For full information on our team & contributors go to www.localemagazine.com/about LOCALE MAGAZINE PO Box 2971, Newport Beach, CA 92659 • 949.436.8910

134

Setting the Scene

Freshly Squeezed Pack Your Picnic Basket—Spring Has Sprung!

editorʼs note We all have our go-to restaurants—you know, that dive bar down the street or the breakfast nook that knows our order by heart. We’re creatures of habit, so we’re loyal to what we know. And don’t get it twisted; I’m no different than the rest. On Fridays, you’ll catch me picking up an order from Sushi on Fire (the best ever), and on Sundays, there’s a good chance you’ll find me at Riip Beer in Sunset Beach sippin’ a pint of their Citradical pale ale (also the best). There’s no shame in being a “regular,” but my job as an editor isn’t to introduce you to places you’ve already been. See where I’m going with this? It’s time to get out of your cozy comfort zone and see what’s cookin’! We’ve pieced together an almanac of the most innovative places to sip and savor in Southern California (pg. 59). From boujee bistros and adult arcades to live-music hotspots

and hidden watering holes, these on-the-rise restaurants are sure to knock your socks off. Flip beyond our foodie almanac, and you’ll discover a slew of local brands and shops like Oceanside’s Friend of Friends Hat Co. (pg. 112) and Young + Rad (pg. 110)—an apparel line for little groms. In our Alive section, you bet we’re talkin’ all things spring—from planning the perfect picnic (pg. 134) to exploring the sunny city of Anaheim (pg. 124). To wrap things up, we packed three suitcases worth of destinations into our escape section! Set your GPS west and visit the all-new Autocamp Joshua Tree for a high-desert staycation (pg. 152), or head north to Hope Valley for a cozy retreat in The High Sierra (pg. 142). Adventure is out there, and we’re here to help you find it. Happy reading!

KAYLIN WAIZINGER Senior Editor kaylin@localemagazine.com

making the issue March 2022 /// Foodie Edition COVER Photographed By: Travis McCoy, travismccoy.com | @travis_mccoy_photography Model: Curtis Stone, @curtisstone Location: Maude, 212 S Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90212 310.859.3418 | mauderestaurant.com Written By: Taylor Gorski and Kaylin Waizinger, @taylorgorski | @kaylinwaizinger Grooming By: Jessica deBen, Jessicadeben.com | @JessDoesMyMakeup

The making of a magazine isn’t a very straightforward process— there are bumps in the road, different schedules and timelines and strict deadlines to meet. But let me tell you, it is a fun one—and when the finished product comes together, it’s all worth it.

T Beverly Hills

For our 123rd issue, my fellow editor (Kaylin Waizinger) and myself wanted to tackle the cover story together and cowrite it. The two of us chatted with the lovely Curtis Stone over the phone while he was still back in Australia. The interview date just so happened to be the same day we were visiting the newly opened AutoCamp in Joshua Tree (found on pg. 152). Thank goodness there was stellar WiFi! We talked about his past, his cooking tips and techniques (like when you’re cooking meat, always let it rest) and what’s to come for the beloved chef. A few weeks later, Stone was back in the states and we attended the cover photoshoot at his charming restaurant Maude in Beverly Hills. Stone’s kindness, humor and charisma kept the shoot light-hearted and entertaining the entire time. Him and his team whipped up some of their specialty dishes and filled the quaint restaurant with beautiful food and delicious smells (the brioche in the oven was absolutely the best smell— ever). Stone offered to make coffee or tea for our team, and you could see the passion in his eyes as he was finishing up his phenomenal dishes. Stone shared special stories about his grandmother— Maude, who the restaurant is named after—as we swapped looks and different locations around the restaurant. After getting the perfect shot for the cover, we wrapped up and have since been dreaming about our next meal at Maude. Written By: Taylor Gorski

All rights reserved © 2022, the entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any forms or by any means without express written prior permission of the copyright owner.

the team

LOC A L E M AG A Z I N E 949.436.8910 info@localemagazine.com

Travis McCoy

26 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Taylor Gorski

Kaylin Waizinger

Jessica deBen

Locale Magazine is printed by SOUTHWEST OFFSET PRINTING 13650 Gramercy Pl Gardena, CA 90249 310.323.0112 | southwestoffset.com

table of contents March 2022 /// Foodie Edition

Carlsbad

Foodie Guide

LOCALE’S 2022 Foodie Guide 101 New, Noteworthy and Neighborly Restaurants In Southern California

Splurge-Worthy These SoCal Restaurants Offer a Decadent Dining Experience Worth Every Penny

EMBER & RYE 7447 Batiquitos Dr Carlsbad, CA 92011 760.603.6908 www.parkhyattaviara.com/eat-drink/ember-and-rye

PHOTO BY: KAMBRIA FISCHER

LOCALE MAGAZINE

table of contents March 2022 /// Foodie Edition

La Jolla

Foodie Guide

Please Welcome… Add These 4 New Restaurants to Your Foodie Bucket List

PACIFIC CATCH La Jolla Village Dr San Diego, CA 92122 619.728.2700 www.pacificcatch.com

PHOTO BY: JAMES TRAN

LOCALE MAGAZINE

table of contents March 2022 /// Foodie Edition

Manhattan Beach

Foodie Guide

Eat, Sleep, Repeat Dine and Stay at These Hotels With Top-Notch Restaurants

ZINC@SHADE 1221 N Valley Dr Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 310.546.4995 mb.shadehotel.com

PHOTO PROVIDED BY: SHADE HOTELS

LOCALE MAGAZINE

table of contents March 2022 /// Foodie Edition West Hollywood

Pg. 128

alive 124 24 Hours

Pg. 114

Cover Story

shoppe 106 Spotlight

Australian Celebrity Chef Curtis Stone Shares His Journey From Commis Chef to Michelin-Starred Success

IN GOOD FASHION This New York-based Jamaican-American Fashion Designer Knows a Thing or Two About Making Dreams Come True

living like a local

Behind the Brand

CULINARY MASTERMIND

shoppe 102 Chelsea Cahan 104 Arturo Enciso alive 118 Shauna Haider 120 Andrew Hagstrom 122 Atsuko Okatsuka escape 138 Elvin Lai 140 Pam Ryan 34 LOCALE MAGAZINE

108

SPINNING THE WHEEL These SoCal Pottery Studios Offer Inclusive, Creative Classes to the Community

110

Behind the Brand

FOR THE LITTLE LEGENDS Young + Rad Creates Modern Apparel For the Little Grom in Your Life

112

Spotlight

HOLD ON TO YOUR HAT Friends Don’t Let Friends Buy Fast-Fashion Hats

114

Get the Deets

CAN’T SEE YOU THROUGH THE CUCUMBERS Set Your Phone to ‘Do Not Disturb’ and Pay a Visit to These Four Luxurious Los Angeles Spas

VIEWS, BREWS AND PUCKS Explore All That Anaheim Has to Offer at These 6 Hot Spots

126

24 Hours

LIVIN’ LA VIDA LIDO Your Guide to a Day of Luxury Living at Newport Beach’s Lido Marina Village

128 Profile

HEAVY META How Avenged Sevenfold’s NFTs Are Striking a Chord in the Metaverse

132

5 Pro Tips

POSITIVE INFLUENCE Dani Elle Speegle Shares How to Become Your Best Self

134

Setting the Scene

FRESHLY SQUEEZED Pack Your Picnic Basket— Spring Has Sprung!

escape 142

Joshua Tree

Get the Deets

INTO THE WYLD Wylder Hope Valley Offers a Chance to Disconnect While Immersing Yourself in Nature

144

24 Hours

TO THE POINT Small Shops, Good Eats and Golden Sunsets— Welcome to Point Loma

147

Feature

THESE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR RIDIN’ This Dude Ranch in the Santa Ynez Valley Will Make You Say Yahoo!

Pg. 152

152

Get the Deets

HAPPY CAMPER Sleep in a Modern Airstream in the High Desert at the All-New AutoCamp Joshua Tree

154

Around the Clock

JUST A ROAD TRIP AWAY These 7 Hotels in SoCal Will Transport You Overseas

CHECK OUT EXTENDED STORIES AND MORE ON OUR WEBSITE AT Localemagazine.com

“Innovation keeps us excited, and if you’re not excited about what you’re doing, it becomes a bit of a chore.” —Curtis Stone

CURTIS STONE @curtisstone Photoshoot Location: MAUDE 212 S Beverly Dr Beverly Hills, CA 90212 310.859.3418 www.mauderestaurant.com 50 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Culinary Mastermind AUSTRALIAN CELEBRITY CHEF CURTIS STONE SHARES HIS JOURNEY FROM COMMIS CHEF TO MICHELIN-STARRED SUCCESS W R I T T E N B Y: TAY L O R G O R S K I A N D K AY L I N WA I Z I N G E R P H O T O G R A P H E D B Y: T R AV I S M C C O Y | G R O O M I N G B Y: J E S S I C A D E B E N

LOCALE MAGAZINE 51

❝

“To this day, I get my inspiration to cook from people that I know and love…” —Curtis Stone

52 LOCALE MAGAZINE

With impressive accolades and a name known around the world, Curtis Stone has managed to perfect the secret sauce far beyond the kitchen. Successful—not to mention humble—doesn’t even begin to describe Stone. The man behind the Michelin-starred restaurants, TV appearances and adventurous, culinary world travels can often be found in the kitchen working alongside the rest of his team. “I’m everything from the head chef to the dishwasher,” Stone states. And while he’s worked his way up to the top of the industry, Stone makes it apparent that he’s not above anyone else. ///

This golden piece of advice came from the one and only Marco Pierre White, when Stone made his cooking dreams come true by moving from Australia to London to work for the renowned British chef. “I remember reading his book and being like, ‘I wanna go work for this guy one day… He’s obsessed with food and pushes his team hard to achieve,’” Stone says, “so that’s what I did.” But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Before Stone found his place in the culinary world and landed a job working alongside White, his beginnings were modest. Most of his days as a child were spent watching his mom and grannies in the kitchen. After years of observation and practice, he began to hone certain skills and eventually started cooking dishes of his own. “To this day, I get my inspiration to cook from people that I know and love,” says Stone. Fast forward to his early 20s, and boom—Stone had landed himself a position at White’s London restaurant, The Grill Room. “I thought I would just walk in the back door of his kitchen and see if I could get a job, and that’s essentially what happened,” he laughs. Stone spent the next eight years in London learning the tricks of the trade from his childhood hero. “I remember we all used to wear blue and white striped aprons, which were

butcher’s aprons in the UK. Chefs [traditionally] wore white aprons, but Marco felt like we should all wear butcher’s aprons,” Stone describes. He explains the importance of this, which he also implements into his own leadership style: “It was a sign that you weren’t better than the person next to you—we’re all just butchers; we’re all just craftsmen.” Continuously working his way to the top, Stone started off as a commis chef and eventually became the head chef at one of White’s restaurants, Quo Vadis, before moving to America for a cooking television show called “Take Home Chef,” which aired on TLC. Right before this, he co-hosted “Surfing the Menu” back in Australia, marking his debut television appearance. Stone has also made his fair share of celebrity guest appearances on talk shows, reality shows and cooking shows in both Australia and America (“Top Chef Masters,” “Iron Chef America” and “MasterChef Australia All Stars,” just to name a few). Adding multiple cookbooks and a cookware line to his resume, there was simply no stopping Mr. Stone.

“I’m everything from the head chef to the dishwasher.” —Curtis Stone

Must-Visit Restaurant in LA? • “Mélisse in Santa Monica is old school, but I love it. The cooking is really wonderful, and my wife and I love going here for date night.” Must-Visit Restaurant in Australia? • “Australia has fabulous savory pies. There’s a bakery near my dad’s place called Bourkies Bakehouse. They sell these incredible meat pies.”

“One thing led to the next, and [in 2014] I opened my own little restaurant in Beverly Hills called Maude,” explains Stone. That “little” restaurant, named after his grandmother, earned a Michelin star in 2019 and another one in 2021. The irony of it? You wouldn’t even know it’s there. LOCALE MAGAZINE 53

❝

“We began traveling to all these different places, searching out inspiration and learning as much as we could…” —Curtis Stone

54 LOCALE MAGAZINE

❝

“We all used to wear blue and white striped aprons, which were butcher’s aprons in the UK…It was a sign that you weren’t better than the person next to you—we’re all just butchers; we’re all just craftsmen.” —Curtis Stone

///

Tucked on the treelined South Beverly Drive, Maude reflects the charm of a sidewalk cafe you’d find in Nice. Its exterior blends seamlessly with the rest of the block, but step inside and you’ll find a sultry space with velvet chairs, bistro tables and walls of nostalgic photographs. To put it plainly, this lauded, fine-dining establishment is as humble as its head chef. When Stone first opened Maude over seven years ago, the menu was solely focused around one single ingredient. “That one ingredient was the star of the show, and we would develop a 10-course tasting menu around it,” says Stone. “[The ingredient] would be in every dish we served, so to keep things interesting, we would find different ways to cook it.” But after four years (and going through just about every root vegetable there was), Stone and his team decided to pivot. “At a certain point, it started to feel more like a chore than a passion,” he explains. With the help of the restaurant’s sommelier, they began building dishes around wines from different regions—regions Stone would visit. “We began traveling to all these different places, searching for inspiration and learning as much as we could. It wasn’t glamorous at all; we were staying in Holiday Inns because we were doing it on a pretty tight budget,” he says. And while it wasn’t all that sophisticated to begin with, that quickly changed when their travels turned into episodes. “I had a buddy who was a great cinematographer, and he asked me what I was doing on the weekends. At

the time, we were going to La Rioja, Spain, and I told him about what we were doing, and he was like, ‘Oh my gosh! Why aren’t you filming this as a TV show?’” Next thing Stone knew, he had a camera crew capturing his overseas adventures—the beginning of his two-season show, “Field Trip.” During his global travels, Stone recalls visiting a northern Caribbean region of Colombia called Riohacha, where he developed an appreciation for the juxtaposition of modern and classical cuisine. “It’s such an interesting place because it’s steeped in tradition. There is all this wonderful food that’s been a part of the culture for centuries, but there is also a real modern attitude that exists there.” And while different cultures will always play a role in Stone’s cooking, he decided to implement a more consistent menu at Maude when the restaurant officially reopened in February. “This has allowed us to hone everything we’ve learned over the past few years and create a worldclass menu,” he explains. “Innovation keeps us excited, and if you’re not excited about what you’re doing, it becomes a bit of a chore.” With innovation always at the forefront, Stone continues to shape the culinary landscape of Los Angeles—a city that never seems to run out of ideas when it comes to food. And just when we think everything has already been done, Stone proves otherwise. “In about a year, we’re opening another restaurant in downtown LA,” he says. And while he won’t spill the details just yet (we’re sworn to secrecy, but you can expect an expansive rooftop), you can bet your pretty little palate that it’ll be a crowd-pleaser.

Most Under-Rated Dish? • “I think it’s the humble meatloaf. It’s one of those dishes that everybody has a recipe for. There’s something about it that just strikes up emotions when you eat it or even smell it. It’s both comfort and quality.” In Love With the Cocoa • It turns out that Stone has quite the sweet tooth. “I love all chocolate— chocolate cake, chocolate mousse, a chunk of chocolate—you name it.” Brothers in Business • When not at Maude, you can find Stone at his other Los Angeles restaurant, Gwen Butcher Shop and Restaurant, which he owns with his brother, Luke. LOCALE MAGAZINE 55

foodie March 2022 /// fresh. fun. distinguished.

Foodie Guide

LOCALE’S 2022 Foodie Guide 101 New, Noteworthy and Neighborly Restaurants In Southern California

Oceanside

PHOTO BY: Audrey Ma • PIPER 105 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92054 | 760.512.3816 | www.theseabirdresort.com

Eat, Sleep, Repeat Dine and Stay at These Hotels With Top-Notch Restaurants

LOCALE MAGAZINE 57

LOCALE MAGAZINE /// FOODIE GUIDE /// 123 EDITION

“USEFUL, WITH A PLEASANT DEGREE OF HUMOR.”—ALMANAC.COM

Photos - Only the Wild Ones | Wormwood: Arlene Ibarra | Bacari: Jakob Layman | Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen | Blinking Owl Distillery: Ron De Angelis

ALE’S LOC

2022

FOO IE D GUIDE

Illustration By: Vicente Martí Solar

ALSO FEATURING INFLUENTIAL CHEFS, COCKTAIL RECIPES, MARKETS, ETC.

101 R LY NEW O B H RE , NO S TA T E W O RT H Y A N D N E I G NIA R URA O IF NTS I N SOUTHERN CAL

LOCALE MAGAZINE /// FOODIE GUIDE /// 123 EDITION

123RD EDITION

LOCALE MAGAZINE 59

foodie /// guide

Bacari Silverlake

PLEASE WELCOME… ADD THESE 4 NEW RESTAURANTS TO YOUR FOODIE BUCKET LIST

Written By: Gennah Nicole Thanks to the diverse culture, relaxed vibes and trendy flair, plenty of eateries in Southern California have something special to offer. It’s pretty clear why new places are popping up all over town, but don’t let the fresh paint fool you. Although these restaurants are new to the neighborhood, they are no stranger to SoCal’s pristine cuisine. From the chic energy of Los Angeles to the laid-back scene in San Diego and everywhere in between, here’s a roundup of the latest and greatest restaurants in the region.

• Inspired by Tuscany’s farm life, this casual wine bar in Los Angeles is the restaurant’s fifth (and probably not the last) location. Hidden in the trees lies their outdoor patio that’s decorated with twinkling lights. It’s hard not to smell the romance in the air (or maybe it’s the pizza). Their menu features Mediterranean dishes by Chef Lior Hillel, and their bar offers craft cocktails, elegant wine and eclectic beers from around the world. According to the restaurant itself, reservations are required at least a week in advance. SILVERLAKE

www.bacarisilverlake.com

Pacific Catch

CAFÉ LA JEFA

• This modern coffee shop is spicing up Palm Springs with its Latin flare. From specialty roasted beans by Sisters Coffee to healthy graband-go goodies like premade salads, tasty wraps and savory sandwiches, every item on the menu is handcrafted by local artisan chefs. The hope is to create an ambiance where guests can relax, create, nourish and socialize. If you’re looking to have a healthy and productive day, Café La Jefa is a great place to start! PALM SPRINGS

PACIFIC CATCH

• Get excited because the Bay Area’s favorite fish house has arrived in San Diego. With two destination patios and an open-air cocktail bar, it’ll feel like you’re on a coastal vacation from the moment you arrive. Founded on their love for the ocean, Pacific Catch’s modern-casual menu features only sustainably sourced seafood. It is their mission to help protect the ecosystem for future generations. Due to their wave-to-table approach, the menu is seasonal, but the dishes are always served with a side of aloha. LA JOLLA

www.pacificcatch.com 60 LOCALE MAGAZINE

www.cafelajefa.com

BUTCHER’S HOUSE

• Take a peek into the home of a butcher at this modern-day brasserie. Centered around the antique craft of butchery, Butcher’s House is a fully immersive experience. As you walk through the doors, expect to be greeted by beautiful cuts of meat hanging in the dry-aging room, the smell of seared steaks on the wood-burning grill and a kitchen full of chefs hard at work. Every dish is crafted with passion and artistry, whether you order the prosciutto board or the 30 days bone-in ribeye. COSTA MESA

www.butchershouse.com

Photos - Bacari Silverlake: Jakob Layman | Pacific Catch: Anna Marks & James Tran | Café La Jefa: Drew Metzger | Butcher’s House: Leo Vaucher Visuals

Founded on their love for the ocean, Pacific Catch’s moderncasual menu features only sustainably sourced seafood.

BACARI SILVERLAKE

foodie /// guide

GONE VIRAL @LOCALEMAG

#FYP

EXPLORE THE BEST BITES IN SOCAL WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM EVERYONE’S FAVORITE APP

• Feel like a SoCal local even if you’re miles away by following along with us at @localemag. From our foodie favorites to the coolest events, we’ve got you covered on the best of Southern California.

Written By: Allie Lebos Who would have thought that TikTok would become one of the most useful tools of the 21st century? This popular app has seriously changed the game when it comes to finding the coolest new restaurants and bars. From being able to showcase the atmosphere of a restaurant to capturing the tastiest items on the menu, TikTok has become one of our favorite resources for discovering popular eateries—and sharing them, too!

Followers: 103,200 and growing Likes: 1,500,000 and growing

LIKE, COMMENT AND SHARE! BLUE SKY RESTAURANT & BAR

• Blue Sky is one of Orange County’s coolest and most contemporary rooftop restaurants. Serving up stunning views from the 12th floor, this is the perfect place for a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine in Anaheim.

radissonbluskyrestaurantbar.com

JAVIER’S

• Boasting ocean views from their spacious patio, Javier’s in Newport Coast is the perfect spot for some tasty guacamole, decadent fish tacos and a refreshing margarita.

www.javiers-cantina.com

FORTUNATE SON

• San Diego’s Fortunate Son is an upscale Chinese restaurant that immerses guests in a sultry space filled with hanging Chinese lanterns and vibrant florals. Don’t miss out on their amazing crab rangoon!

www.fortunatesonchinese.com

BOOZEHOUNDS • Looking for a dogfriendly restaurant in Palm Springs? Boozehounds is both a modern and midcenturey-style restaurant and bar that allows you (and your pup) to experience a fantastic meal in the heart of the desert.

boozehoundsps.com

THE RED CHICKZ

GUCCI OSTERIA

PARIS TOKYO

• Located in DTLA, The Red Chickz serves up spicy Nashville fried chicken, bringing a true taste of Southern comfort food out west. This casual eatery creates a fun environment to enjoy a classic chicken sandwich with colorful walls that feature flaming cartoon chickens. The Red Chickz’ chicken is perfectly crispy—don’t be surprised if you come across their legendary “crunch” while scrolling through the ASMR side of TikTok. DTLA

• Gucci Osteria is an exclusive eatery located within the Gucci Store in Beverly Hills. This stunning, openair restaurant has all of the detailed aesthetics needed to make the ultimate TikTok, highlighting a delicious Italian meal along with some glamorous window shopping. Though you have the option to go all-out with their tasting menu, some must-have a la carte dishes include the tortellini and the uni carbonara. BEVERLY HILLS

• As Beverly Hills’ premier rooftop sushi lounge, it is no wonder why Paris Tokyo has taken TikTok by storm. This whimsical rooftop is covered in dreamy floral displays and hanging twinkle lights, transporting you to a wonderland as you indulge in traditional Japanese sushi. From coursed omakase to massive sushi boats, everything you try at Paris Tokyo is sure to wow with fresh and quality fish imported straight from Japan. BEVERLY HILLS

www.theredchickz.com | @theredchickz 62 LOCALE MAGAZINE

gucciosteria.com/en/beverlyhills | @gucciosteria

www.paristokyo.love | @paristokyo_bh

PLURGE-WORTHY THESE SOCAL RESTAURANTS OFFER A DECADENT DINING EXPERIENCE WORTH EVERY PENNY Written By: Allie Lebos | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar Though Southern California is known for having some of the best taco stands and beachside cafes in the country, it is also home to upscale restaurants that combine a carefully curated atmosphere and highquality ingredients to create the ultimate dining experience. Whether you’re seeking a unique and authentic Japanese meal or a romantic beachside restaurant for a special occasion, be sure to bring your wallet when visiting any of these 13 snazzy restaurants in Southern California.

enoSTEAK

BICYCLETTE

Must-Order: Burgundy Escargots en Croute • Bicyclette transports LA locals to France with a bistro-style setting and authentic French flavors that shine. Snag a seat inside and don’t leave without trying the burgundy escargots en croute or beef short rib with potato mousseline. BEVERLY HILLS

www.bicyclettela.com

Priciest Plate: Surf and Turf ($94) • enoSTEAK is a chic steakhouse located on the grounds of the gorgeous Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. From the massive glass wine cellar that sits in the middle of the dining room to the butterscotch-colored booths that line the perimeter, this contemporary restaurant is the perfect place for an intimate dinner for two. After snacking on their signature charcuterie board, enhance your steak dinner with some delicious sides, such as the truffled white cheddar cavatelli or the sauteed mushrooms with sherry cream. DANA POINT

www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ california/laguna-niguel/dining/ enosteak

FABLE & SPIRIT

Priciest Plate: American Wagyu Hanger Steak ($58) • Fable & Spirit serves both brunch and dinner to those in search of sophisticated yet playful Irish cuisine. From the bright yellow front door 64 LOCALE MAGAZINE

to the dining room decked out with teal velvet and brassy accents, the Fable & Spirit aesthetic is curated through European-inspired touches and an unmatched attention to detail. Skip the large plates and order a bunch of small ones along with their unique “tEQuilA WiNe FeELing fine” cocktail. NEWPORT BEACH

www.fableandspirit.com

WATER GRILL

Priciest Plate: Wild Jumbo Florida Stone Crab Claws ($99) • Water Grill boasts a nautical yet sultry atmosphere that invites you to indulge in a sensational seafood dinner. While white wine pairs wonderfully with fresh fish, you’ll want to enjoy a chilled aperitif before digging in. For an appetizer, build your own seafood platter from the raw bar before ordering either the Wild Ross Sea Chilean sea bass or the farmed New Zealand King salmon for your main course. COSTA MESA

www.watergrill.com/southcoast

LOS ANGELES MATŪ

Priciest Plate: Wagyu Dinner ($78 per person)

ORANGE COUNTY ENOSTEAK

Matu

SPLASHES

Must-Order: Artichoke & Truffle Veloute • Situated on the pristine coastline of Laguna Beach, Splashes at the Surf & Sand Resort offers a true seaside dining experience. Between the waves that crash against the glass windows to the decadent, seafood-centric menu, everything works in tandem to create the ultimate beachside ambiance for a sunset dinner. LAGUNA BEACH

www.surfandsandresort.com/ splashes

• Specializing in grass-fed Wagyu beef, Matū uses only the highest-quality cuts and ingredients to ensure that both the flavor and texture of their First Light Farm steaks are unlike anything you’ve ever had before. With a dark and modern interior, Matū boasts a romantic atmosphere that is sure to sweep you off your feet. While they’re known for their five-course Wagyu dinner, they also serve a phenomenal wood-fired lobster tail that is cooked to absolute perfection. BEVERLY HILLS

www.matusteak.com

CAPO RESTAURANT

Priciest Plate: Fiorentina ($195) • Set in a restored 1920s building with unique antiques and priceless paintings strung along the walls, Capo in Santa Monica specializes in modern Italian cuisine. The rustic setting offers a romantic environment that is perfect for sipping on one of Capo’s 2,500 world-class wines. After enjoying some decadent pasta or their Fiorentina for two, follow

up with a chocolate souffle for the most delicate and dynamic dessert. SANTA MONICA

www.caporestaurant.com

HAYATO

Priciest Plate: Priced per person • Hayato offers guests the opportunity to indulge in a lavish omakase-style dining experience that gives a true taste of upscale Japanese cuisine. Boasting two Michelin stars, Hayato features a scenic atmosphere that pays homage to traditional Japanese dining with a variety of seating arrangements, including low-lying tables for tatami seating. Enjoy a carefully curated bento box that features fresh ingredients and flavors at this one-of-akind restaurant in downtown Los Angeles. DTLA

www.hayatorestaurant.com

Hayato

Photos - enoSTEAK: The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel | Matū: Virtually Here Studios | Hayato: Courtesy of ROW DTLA and Hayato | Splashes: Surf & Sand Resort

foodie /// guide

Ember & Rye

RISTORANTE MAMMA GINA Must-Order: Mezzelune all’Aragosta

• For more than 35 years, Palm Desert’s Ristorante Mamma Gina has served up traditional Italian food and wine to locals and visitors alike. We recommend trying one of their signature pasta dishes like the Mezzelune all’Aragosta (black squid ink ravioli), and don’t miss out on their all-night happy hour! PALM DESERT

www.mammagina.com

SAN DIEGO EMBER & RYE

fpo Photos - Ember & Rye: Park Hyatt Aviara Resort | Rare Society: Matt Furman | Eight4Nine: Ella Merrill | Louisiana Purchase: Kambria Fischer

Priciest Plate: Beef Rib Chop “Storm Breaker Cut” ($260) • Ember & Rye is Park Hyatt Aviara’s signature steakhouse that offers innovative, wood-fired dishes alongside remarkable views of Carlsbad’s Batiquitos Lagoon. With critically acclaimed Chef Richard Blais at the helm, guests of Ember & Rye can expect to be wooed by unique flavors found in dishes like the radishes dipped in white chocolate or the spicy lobster bucatini. Come here for a posh dinner and order a round of Smoking Ember cocktails as a starter. CARLSBAD

www.parkhyattaviara.com/eat-drink/ ember-and-rye

A.R. VALENTIEN

Priciest Plate: Brandt Beef Prime Rib-Eye Steak ($55) • Located inside The Lodge at Torrey Pines, A.R. Valentien offers a fine-dining experience in a rustic setting along the stunning La Jolla coast. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or are simply in search of a date-night destination, A.R. Valentien features a sophisticated and classy ambiance, perfect for any special occasion. While you can’t go wrong with the caramelized sea scallops,

Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge

GREATER PALM SPRINGS

their Brandt Beef prime ribeye steak is also a can’t-miss, melt-in-your-mouth dish. LA JOLLA

www.lodgetorreypines.com/ar-valentien

RARE SOCIETY

Priciest Plate: The Executive Charcuterie Board ($187) • In contrast to the traditional dim lighting and stuffy booths found in most steakhouses, Rare Society in Solana Beach features a retro-glam style and a neighborhood feel that is both inviting and charming. Rare Society also specializes in fresh seafood, ranging from chilled oysters to whole Maine lobster, which is served with decadent garlic and parsley butter. Though they have an impressive wine list, don’t miss out on their tequila-based 75 and Sunny cocktail. UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS, SOLANA BEACH

www.raresocietysd.com

LOUISIANA PURCHASE

Must-Order: Alligator Andouille Cheesecake • With a seasonal Cajun menu and a heavy focus on craft cocktails, Louisiana Purchase is North Park’s premium spot for an upscale dinner. At this French Quarter-inspired establishment you’ll find drinks served in disco balls and all sorts of upscale eats like Acme chargrilled oysters and alligator andouille cheesecake. NORTH PARK

www.louisianapurchasesd.com

MISTER PARKER’S

Priciest Plate: Three-Course Meal ($79 per person) • A charming French restaurant within the stylish Parker Palm Springs hotel, Mister Parker’s is a musttry. The quirky dining room features abstract art and vibrant, patterned dining chairs, creating a unique vibe that sets the scene for a decadent meal. Mister Parker’s offers a $79 threecourse menu that features French classics, such as roasted duck breast and chilled green pea soup, along with more modern options like crispy smoked octopus and lobster sausage. PALM SPRINGS

www.parkerpalmsprings.com

EIGHT4NINE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

Priciest Plate: Misoyaki Glazed Sea Bass ($44)

Rare Society

• If you’re looking for a hip lounge that still serves delicious and premium bites, Eight4Nine in Palm Springs will give you the best of both worlds. Sit on their midcentury-modern patio or grab a table inside

near the retro-style bar before ordering a prickly pear margarita with Milagro tequila. And if you’re feeling fancy, order the delicate Misoyaki Glazed Sea Bass made with white miso, baby bok choy, black sesame seeds and fermented black bean sauce—it’s that good. PALM SPRINGS

www.eight4nine.com

MORGAN’S IN THE DESERT

Priciest Plate: Steak au Poivre ($47) • With a romantic courtyard and hacienda-style setting, Morgan’s in the Desert brings modern American food to the Coachella Valley with carefully curated dishes that combine classic flavors with high-quality ingredients. The diverse and large menu makes it easy for anyone to find the perfect dish, no matter what kind of dietary restrictions you may have. If you’re craving something light and refreshing to eat in the desert heat, pair the White Linen cocktail with the Atlantic salmon. LA QUINTA

www.morgansinthedesert.com

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ALL THE WAY UP WHETHER IT’S THE VIEW OR THE VIBES, THESE “ELEVATED” RESTAURANTS ARE SURE TO PLEASE

We’re living in the self-proclaimed age of the foodie, where everyone is looking for their next best meal and the concept of elevated dining tickles the taste buds. Sprinkled throughout Southern California is an assortment of award-worthy restaurants with views and vibes for days. From on-the-sand eateries to haunts in the Hollywood Hills, these sky-high establishments offer vistas that’ll sweep you off your feet…and a menu to match.

SKYLOFT Views of: Downtown Laguna Beach and the ocean Even though Laguna Beach is a city that hugs the California coast, there are only a few restaurants in town that have those quintessential ocean views everyone dreams of—Skyloft is one of them. Sitting smack-dab downtown just off of the famed Pacific Coast Hwy, this spot is the perfect place to scope out the surf or catch a sunset. Skyloft offers a California BBQ fusion menu featuring burgers, brisket and everything in between. With live music Wednesday through Saturday, patrons can enjoy a libation and a listen all while getting that Instagram-worthy sunset snap. LAGUNA BEACH

www.skyloftoc.com

With live music Wednesday through Saturday, patrons can enjoy a libation and a listen all while getting that Instagram-worthy sunset snap. LAS BRISAS Views of: Main Beach in Laguna

Views of: The Huntington Beach coastline Want to relive your childhood treehouse fantasy? Head to Tanner’s in Huntington Beach for your fix. This restaurant and bar located within Paséa Hotel & Spa and next to Pacific City pours up your favorite drinks and feeds you delicious food while they’re at it. Overlooking the sands of Huntington Beach, this special spot is always a scene with their rotating specialty cocktails. Be sure to check out their happy hour (Monday through Thursday, 4-6 p.m.) to enjoy deals on select items. Oh, and they do a bangin’ brunch too! HUNTINGTON BEACH

www.tannershb.com

www.lasbrisaslagunabeach.com

Coining its own category of coastal California cuisine, Las Brisas is the type of place where the views are just as yummy as the food itself. Written By: Jane Adler Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar 66 LOCALE MAGAZINE

HAVE YOURSELF A NIGHT After your dinner with a view, head to Royal Hawaiian in Laguna Beach and enjoy one of their famous Lapu Lapu tiki drinks, which are sure to help you extend your buzz until, well, the next day probably.

Photos - Skyloft: Katie Nguyen | Las Brisas: Mary Carol Fitzgerald | Tanner’s: Paséa Hotel & Spa

If you really want to take advantage of the Golden State’s brag-worthy weather, Las Brisas is the place to do so. A staple of the little town of Laguna Beach, this waterfront Mexican restaurant has been serving up some of the best margaritas in town since 1979. Coining its own category of coastal California cuisine, Las Brisas is the type of place where the views are just as yummy as the food itself. There’s plenty of surf (quite literally) and just as much turf on the menu with an array of shareable appetizers like the corn mousse tostadas and BBQ pork spareribs. LAGUNA BEACH

TANNER’S

ALL THE WAY UP WHETHER IT’S THE VIEW OR THE VIBES, THESE “ELEVATED” RESTAURANTS ARE SURE TO PLEASE

THE ROOFTOP AT MISSION PACIFIC HOTEL Views of: The Oceanside Pier This rooftop situation will have you saying “ay dios mio” to just about everything on the menu. The Rooftop at Mission Pacific Hotel offers Mexican bar bites done right with views all the way down to the motherland herself. Grab a Pacific Time or a Mission Chill off of the cocktail menu and find your beach (which won’t be hard since there’s one right in front of you). Whether you fancy tortas, tostadas or tacos, anything off of this carefully curated menu is worthy of a second bite. OCEANSIDE

www.missionpacifichotel.com

The Rooftop at Mission Pacific Hotel offers Mexican bar bites done right with views all the way down to the motherland herself.

Views of: The waves at Pacific Beach It’s rare to find a stomping ground that is mere steps from the sand, but PB Shore Club has managed to make a home on the shores of Pacific Beach in San Diego. Their casual Californiainspired menu features favorites like fish and chips, nachos, bowls and protein plates. It wouldn’t be SoCal without poke making an appearance too. Shore Club is the dive bar you love meets the house on the beach you covet. With fun drinks like the mamitas and slushies, it’s a great place to post up with a priceless view. PACIFIC BEACH

Views of: The Downtown San Diego skyline

Whether you’re swinging by for breakfast, lunch or dinner, The Rooftop by STK at Andaz San Diego is a real crowdpleaser. The Tiki Spritz is great any time of day and the fried chicken sandwich is sure to cure any impending hangover. Located in the heart of downtown, this oversized rooftop has perfected the indoor/ outdoor vibe California is known for and can go from polished to party with one click of the retractable roof. The Rooftop by STK regularly hosts DJs and other live musical acts, so visitors can get their food with a side of flow. DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO

www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/california/andazsan-diego/sanas/dining

www.pbshoreclub.com

Shore Club is the dive bar you love meets the house on the beach you covet. Written By: Jane Adler Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar 68 LOCALE MAGAZINE

SECRET SIPS

Andaz San Diego is located just around the corner from cloak-anddagger speakeasy Noble Experiment. Be sure to book a reservation in advance if you want to check out this hidden downtown gem!

Photos - The Rooftop at Mission Pacific Hotel | PB Shore Club: Huy Hoang | The Rooftop by STK @ Andaz: Michael Wesley

PB SHORE CLUB

THE ROOFTOP BY STK

WHETHER IT’S THE VIEW OR THE VIBES, THESE “ELEVATED” RESTAURANTS ARE SURE TO PLEASE

THE TOWER BAR Views of: West Hollywood The Tower Bar at the Sunset Tower Hotel is the place to see and be seen. It’s quite possibly the No. 1 celebrity sighting spot in all of Los Angeles, and it offers some of the best peoplewatching in the city of showbiz. Snack on zucchini chips to start while slowly sipping a Southside Fizz, and get ready to be enveloped in the old Hollywood feels of this living room-turned-restaurant. It’s no wonder everyone and their famous mother loves this place. It’s all so approachable yet oddly upscale with its dark, walnut-paneled walls and sweeping views of the city. WEST HOLLYWOOD

www.sunsettowerhotel.com

Snack on zucchini chips to start while slowly sipping a Southside Fizz, and get ready to be enveloped in the old Hollywood feels of this living room-turned-restaurant.

YAMASHIRO Views of: The Hollywood skyline With arguably one of the best views in Los Angeles, Yamashiro is an iconic eatery that’s famous in its own right. Nestled in the Hollywood Hills, diners can enjoy panoramic views of La La Land while being surrounded by greenery and good food. Their bountiful menu boasts four pages of food and two additional pages dedicated to delicious drinks. From sushi and sashimi to soups, salads and specialty rolls, Yamashiro has something for everyone but—let’s be honest—you’re really just there for the 180-degree view…and maybe a Spirit Walker or two at the Pagoda Bar. HOLLYWOOD HEIGHTS

BAR LIS Views of: Downtown LA and the Hollywood Hills Who doesn’t love a rooftop lounge? Not us, that’s for sure; we’re suckers for skyhigh sipping. Bar Lis at Thompson Hollywood transports patrons to the French Riviera and will have you saying “oui” to all of their specialty drinks like the Strawberry Fields and Petit Paloma. With a small but mighty menu of canapes (a fancy word for apps), diners are encouraged to share French favorites like croquettes or frites. The burger is also a big hit, and the bananas Foster dessert doesn’t disappoint. A foray to this photo-friendly spot is sure to leave you feeling très bien. HOLLYWOOD

www.barlisla.com

www.yamashirohollywood.com

Nestled in the Hollywood Hills, diners can enjoy panoramic views of La La Land while being surrounded by greenery and good food. Written By: Jane Adler Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar 70 LOCALE MAGAZINE

LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL

The Thompson Hotel is neighbors with Mama Shelter, a trendy boutique hotel with another great rooftop.

Photos - The Tower Bar at Sunset Tower Hotel: Joliet & Pixel Lab | Yamashiro | Bar Lis at Thompson Hollywood: Michael Mundy + Bar Lis

ALL THE WAY UP

WHETHER IT’S THE VIEW OR THE VIBES, THESE “ELEVATED” RESTAURANTS ARE SURE TO PLEASE

THE EDGE STEAKHOUSE Views of: Rancho Mirage and the entire Coachella Valley

Not checking out this desert oasis would definitely be a missed-steak. Sitting 650 feet above sea level, The Edge Steakhouse at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage is a cut above the rest—quite literally! Known for its dry-aged proteins, this turf-forward spot manages to work in some surf as well, serving up delicaseas like scallops, charred octopus and lobster. Plus, they have a bar program that'll make you say bottoms up to fancy cocktails featuring beefed-up booze like their bourbon, which is oak cask-aged in-house. We recommend pairing your view of the Coachella Valley with a mouthwatering filet and calling it a day! RANCHO MIRAGE

www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/california/ rancho-mirage

Sitting 650 feet above sea level, The Edge Steakhouse at The RitzCarlton, Rancho Mirage is a cut above the rest—quite literally!

4 SAINTS Views of: Palm Springs and the rugged San Jacinto Mountains

BELLATRIX Views of: The Classic Club golf course The food at Bellatrix is simple yet sexy with a more casual lunch menu and a beef’d up dinner offering that’ll satisfy your inner culinary connoisseur. Chef Gerard Brunett takes fan favorites and elevates them, which is the case with the Bellatrix Burger—made with an 8-ounce Wagyu patty. Sweeping views of the golf course will make any club-loving husband feel right at home, and a glass of wine will make his tee talk more tolerable. This place is a real diamond in the rough for foodies looking for a hole in one. PALM DESERT

www.classicclubgolf.com

Touted as the only restaurant in Palm Springs with skyline views of the magnificent San Jacinto Mountains, 4 Saints at the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs is an ultra-trendy alternative to the usual desert destinations. With an observation deck overlooking the city as well as a bar program that rivals any fancy-schmancy LA watering hole, this super-cool spot offers contemporary Southern cuisine and carefully curated artisan cocktails. Snack on the Marsh Hen Mill cornbread while you peruse the menu—we recommend getting a bunch of small plates to share! PALM SPRINGS

www.4saintspalmsprings.com

…this super-cool spot offers contemporary Southern cuisine and carefully curated artisan cocktails. Written By: Jane Adler Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar 72 LOCALE MAGAZINE

THE INSIDE SCOOP

Famed ice cream shop Lappert’s is located right across the street from 4 Saints, if you’re in need of a date shake fix!

Sweeping views of the golf course will make any club-loving husband feel right at home, and a glass of wine will make his tee talk more tolerable.

Photos - The Edge at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage: Courtesy The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage | 4 Saints: Laure Joliet | Bellatrix: visitgreaterpalmsprings.com Visit Greater Palm Springs @visitgreaterps

ALL THE WAY UP

foodie /// guide

LESSONS FROM THE CHEF THESE 8 INFLUENTIAL CHEFS SERVE UP INSIGHT, ADVICE AND INSPIRATION

CHEF KELLY WALLING

Restaurant: The Exchange Restaurant & Bar Located in: Downtown Los Angeles

Restaurant: Mitch’s on El Paseo Prime Seafood Located in: Palm Desert

“I love creating dishes that celebrate my Filipino heritage while bringing comforting and humble flavors to life. I want my creations to offer a full spectrum: fresh vegetables paired with savory and sweet notes that bloom next to slow-cooked ingredients with pops of acidic notes to reset your palate. After the last few years of what the hospitality industry has seen and felt, I hope that we can extend more gratitude, grace and kindness towards one another.”

“I was inspired to become a chef because both of my grandparents always cooked great food, and I wanted to learn how. It’s a lot more than just cooking. You’re a plumber, electrician, psychologist, accountant and problem solver. There is a lot that goes into getting that steak or sea bass to the guest other than just making sure it’s prepared properly.”

THE EXCHANGE RESTAURANT & BAR

www.theexchangela.com

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MITCH’S ON EL PASEO PRIME SEAFOOD

www.mitchsonelpaseo.com

CHEF ROBERTO ALCOCER

CHEF BRENDAN COLLINS

Restaurants: Valle and Malva Located in: Oceanside and Valle de Guadalupe, Baja Mexico

Restaurants: Fia and Fia Steak Located in: Santa Monica

“My dream of becoming a chef stemmed from my love to eat, so it was easy to choose a path when I finished high school. My cuisine is 100% ingredient driven; it’s about seasonality and flavor pairings— as chefs, we change our favorite ingredients often. I curate experiences and concentrate on flavors, and I love to get the ‘wow’ from the people who taste my creations.” VALLE www.valleoceanside.com MALVA malva.meitre.com

“Hospitality is a brilliant industry to be in; it’s given me an amazing life of travel and creativity. You get out what you put in, and I’d love to see more people getting into it on a professional level. It’s been difficult to find staff lately; I’m not sure why people have decided to get out, but as a young lad from a mining village in northern England who now runs one of the best and busiest restaurants in Los Angeles, being a chef can be almost unbelievable.” FIA www.fiarestaurant.com FIA STEAK www.fiasteak.com

Photos - The Exchange at Freehand Los Angeles: Dylan and Jeni | Mitch’s Prime Seafood on El Paseo: George Duschannes | Valle at Mission Pacific Hotel: Audrey Ma | Fia and Fia Steak: Wonho Frank Lee & Xavier Flores

CHEF NARITA SANTOS

Photos - Chef Andie Hubka & Tu Madres Cantina: Nathan Cox | Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen | Tavern House Kitchen + Bar: Sarah King & Ari Moshayedi | Girl & The Goat: Jenny Grimm Photography & Galdones Photography

Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar

CHEF ANDIE HUBKA Restaurants: Cork & Fork, Heirloom Craft Kitchen, Tu Madres Cantina & Grill Located in: La Quinta, Indio “I am known for creative small plates that pull from just about every cuisine, along with wine pairings. I love small plates because you don’t have the rules like you do with traditional entrees and appetizers. My favorite thing in the whole world is when I pair a wine with a dish I’ve created and people have that ‘AHA’ moment of how wine and food just make each other better. My other hat is that I am a cookbook author; I have published three books, including the Cork & Fork cookbook (available on our website), and am working on a fourth now.” CORK & FORK corkandforkwinebar.com HEIRLOOM CRAFT KITCHEN

CHEF IMRAN “ALI” MOOKHI Restaurant: Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen Located in: Fullerton “My goal when creating a dish is to capture all the elements—taste, smell, texture and flavor—and plate it in a way that's never been seen before. I prepare authentic subcontinent cuisine. I believe in versatility and combine a variety of Southeast Asian spices to develop unique dishes, and my favorite one to prepare is biryani. Receiving the Michelin honor of a Bib Gourmand award this year was definitely our biggest achievement thus far.” KHAN SAAB DESI CRAFT KITCHEN

www.khansaaboc.com

CHEF MICHAEL PAYNE Restaurant: Tavern House Kitchen + Bar Located in: Newport Beach “I learned a long time ago that less is more—when you start with quality and follow technique, the end result comes out pristine. The simplest dish I make is my girls’ favorite: garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, pappardelle pasta and basil. Remember to always cook with your heart. If you trust that, you will never go wrong. You might make mistakes, but you will only grow and get better from the experience! Live life to the fullest by trying new things—it could change your life.” TAVERN HOUSE KITCHEN + BAR

www.tavernhousekb.com

CHEF STEPHANIE IZARD Restaurant: Girl & The Goat, Cabra Located in: Downtown Los Angeles “I pull inspiration from my personal travels, other chefs and even from looking at a map and learning about the culture, flavors, techniques, spices, etc. of a specific region. Something as simple as a classic ceviche is refreshing, magical and reminiscent of my time spent in Lima. Currently, I’m working on the opening of Cabra LA on the rooftop of The Hoxton, DTLA!” GIRL & THE GOAT

www.girlandthegoat.com/los-angeles CABRA

thehoxton.com/downtown-la/cabra-restaurant

www.heirloomcraftkitchen.com

TU MADRES CANTINA & GRILL

www.tumadrescantina.com

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FOODIE /// GUIDE

COMMUNAL COFFEE

• This picture-perfect coffee shop’s South Park location serves bites and beverages out of a restored vintage trailer. Order a coconut creme cold brew or lemon almond latte! SOUTH PARK, NORTH PARK, OCEANSIDE

www.communalcoffee.com

CODY’S LA JOLLA

• A buzzy atmosphere and airy ocean views have come to define this La Jolla hotspot, but their brunch is the real showstopper. Pro tip: order the Awesome French Toast. LA JOLLA

www.codyslj.com

SIX SAN DIEGO CAFES WE CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF

SCRIMSHAW COFFEE

Written By: Kaylin Waizinger • Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar

www.secretsistersouthpark.com

• Tucked on El Cajon Blvd, Scrimshaw Coffee is a community-focused, specialty coffee shop with all the classics! Every bean is roasted by its staff under the name Field Trip Coffee. EL CERRITO

www.scrimshawcoffee.com

PINK ROSE CAFE

• Owned by a Latinx husband-and-wife duo, this pretty-in-pink cafe partners with local coffee company Ryan Brothers to provide everything from lattes and mochas to teas and frappes. LA MESA

www.pinkrosecafesd.com

PALMYS

• Offering a feel-good menu with a splash of Australian personality, Palmys is sure to be your new favorite haunt. Snag a wrap, smoothie or breakfast bowl from the cafe or market, then revel in the beachy bungalow vibes on the shaded patio. PACIFIC BEACH

www.atpalmys.com

76 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Photos - Cody’s La Jolla: Danielle Jackson | Communal Coffee: Let’s Frolic Together | Palmys: Lucianna McIntosh | Pink Rose Cafe: Bianca Corallino

SUNNY SIDE UP

SECRET SISTER

• Shhh! Secret Sister, a new bakery and cafe in San Diego’s South Park neighborhood, offers a selection of seasonal fruit pies, sticky buns, quiches, scones, coffee cake and more. You won’t be able to keep quiet about this spot. SOUTH PARK

foodie /// guide

FARM TO FORK

4 SUSTAINABLE RESTAURANTS THAT ARE KEEPING SOCAL HAPPY AND HEALTHY Written By: Jordan Nishkian

3 4

THIS NEWPORT BEACH RESTAURANT ’S SUSTAINABLE MENU IS AS FRESH AS IT GETS

1 2

1 HEIRLOOM CRAFT KITCHEN • Between Indio and La Quinta lies Heirloom Craft Kitchen, one of Greater Palm Springs’ most delicious and sustainable eateries. With award-winning Executive Chef and owner Andie Hubka at the helm, you can expect a cozy, comfortable atmosphere and an elevated fast-casual experience. You’ll also find a crowd-pleasing menu chock-full of nutritious, scratchmade dishes that are crafted using as many local and organic ingredients as possible. INDIO

www.heirloomcraftkitchen.com

2 POPPY & SEED • It’s not every day you get to indulge in comfort food that’s farm-fresh and chefdriven, but at Poppy & Seed in the Anaheim Packing District, that’s all you’ll find on the menu (along with some seriously tasty cocktails)! Awardwinning Chef Michael Reed uses the on-site garden (where you’ll be eating) as inspiration when creating seasonal small plates that offer sustainable takes on American classics like Wagyu hanger steak or braised oxtail. ANAHEIM

www.poppyandseedoc.com 78 LOCALE MAGAZINE

BURGEON AT THE ARBOR

RUSTIC CANYON

• Tucked away on Kettner St. in historic Little Italy, you’ll find Burgeon Beer Company’s bustling scratch kitchen and taproom. Come for the pints of craft beer made in their Carlsbad-based brewery, and stay for the rotating, seasonal menu of delicious food made from locally, sustainably and ethically sourced ingredients. You’ll love the dishes Chef Jesus “Chuy” de la Torre comes up with to complement the beers! SAN DIEGO

• Self-described as “hyper-seasonal,” Michelin-starred restaurant Rustic Canyon serves Santa Monica shareable dishes that are good for both the soul and the environment. The vision Executive Chef Andy Doubrava and James Beardnominated Chef and owner Jeremy Fox have for the food is simplistic and highquality. The menu certainly brings that to life by showcasing fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers, fishermen and ranchers with sustainable practices.. SANTA MONICA

www.burgeonbeer.com

rusticcanyonrestaurant.com

With its stunning location, friendly atmosphere and menu full of sustainably sourced, drink-friendly food, it’s easy to see why Lido Bottle Works has become one of Lido Isle’s most popular local eateries.

SUSTAINABILITY

• With the help of Chef Joel Gutierrez, Lido Bottle Works is doing its part in creating a better, more sustainable future by sourcing local, seasonal ingredients.

MUST-TRY DISHES

• As part of its sustainability practice, Lido Bottle Works offers seasonal menus, so there’s always something new to try. However, we always recommend the ceviche and the Lido Catch of the Day!

LOCAL INSIGHT

• Lido Bottle Works’ food is made with conversation and drinkpairings in mind—and there are plenty of craft beverages to choose from, including beer, wine, ciders, hard kombuchas and specialty cocktails. LIDO BOTTLE WORKS

www.lidobottleworks.com

Photos - Heirloom Craft Kitchen: Nathan Cox | Poppy & Seed | Burgeon at The Arbor: Mackenzie Graham | Rustic Canyon: Lindsey Huttrer | Lido Bottle Works: Knife & Spork PR

LIDO BOTTLE WORKS

THEY’VE GOT THE GOODS SHOP SMALL AT THESE LOCAL MARKETS IN THE HIGH DESERT | Written By: Kaylin Waizinger

ON CLOUD WINE When the booze runs dry in the high desert, head to Joshua Tree Bottle Shop! This boutique wine store specializes in small production bottles for a low price. Most everything is under $25, whether it’s a crisp white to enjoy in the heat of the afternoon or a smooth red to sip under the desert sky.

THE VIBE

• Hyper-local with a boutique feel—just how we like it!

THE GOODS

• The shop carries everything from reds and whites to bubbly, but there’s also a beer fridge and a quaint selection of craft mezcals and spirits.

THE INSIDE SCOOP

RESTORED AND RENEWED

THE VIBE

• Midcentury and minimalistic with an earthy, all-natural flair.

THE GOODS

EDITOR’S PICKS

• Xavier Clua El Solà d’en Pol Rosé • Ashland Mango Chili Hard Seltzer • Glutenberg Gluten-Free IPA JOSHUA TREE BOTTLE SHOP

Location: Joshua Tree www.joshuatreebottleshop.com

Golden Sage Market works closely with small-batch producers in California who use sustainable, people-first business practices. Carla Berger founded the market in 2020 with hopes of bringing highquality foods and beverages to the people in and beyond the Greater Palm Springs region. Shop online or in-store at Windmill City Super #1 in Palm Springs or Hi-Desert Daydream in Twentynine Palms.

THE VIBE

• Playful and organic; expect all sorts of allnatural goodness.

THE GOODS

• Shop everything from organic wellness products like face oils and shampoos to sustainable home goods like linen throws and soy candles. There’s also a variety of grocery items like coffee beans, jams, spices and more.

• At Golden Sage Market, you’ll find grocery items galore! Online, you’ll find everything from pickled veggies and small-batch hot sauces to granola, nut butter and beans from Joshua Tree Coffee Co.

THE INSIDE SCOOP

EDITOR’S PICKS

HOLISTIC RANCH

GOLDEN SAGE MARKET

• For 10% off your first order and access to recipes, updates, special events and limited edition products, subscribe to Holistic Ranch’s newsletter!

• Elderflower + Lime Jelly • Solar Face Mist • Oak Candle Holder

Location: Yucca Valley www.holisticranch.com 80 LOCALE MAGAZINE

• Founder Carla Berger earned her master’s degree in Food Studies at NYU and continues to put her heart into building a sustainable local food system here in the desert.

• Happy Hour Cocktail Mixer Bundle • Grove Provisions Chili-Infused Olive Oil • Lasto Foods Matcha Almond Butter

Locations: Palm Springs, Twentynine Palms www.goldensagemarket.com

Photos - Holistic Ranch | Joshua Tree Bottle Shop: Ashley Richelson | Golden Sage Market: Hi-Desert Daydream

With a host of biodynamic and regenerative products, Yucca Valley’s Holistic Ranch is a haven for those looking to make a positive shift in the way they live. This local grocer is dedicated to renewing the land and providing clean, small-batch products to its loyal patrons. Founder and Creative Director Nicole Granato even uses her ranch to rescue horses from slaughter!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

• Joshua Tree Bottle Shop offers shipping and in-store pick-up! Simply select your spirits online and have them delivered or ready when you arrive.

foodie /// guide

Piper in Oceanside creates garden-totable delicacies like fresh, handmade pastas all while supporting small farms and artisanal businesses.

PIPER

Located at: The Seabird Resort

www.theseabirdresort.com

A DRINK ON DISPLAY

• If you’re dining with a small group, be sure to order one of the Ferris Wheel Ride cocktails at Blue Streak, where four martinis are presented on a miniature Ferris wheel!

ZINC@SHADE

Located at: Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach • Boasting a modern roof deck and a sultry lounge, zinc@shade is the perfect place to pair a glass of wine with an appetizer and entree (like the chicken pesto panini). Get the best of both worlds by enjoying bites inside before stepping out onto the breezy Skydeck for a nightcap. MANHATTAN BEACH

mb.shadehotel.com

BLUE STREAK

Located at: Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel • At Blue Streak in Santa Monica, guests can gather around fire pits, watch the waves hit the shore and sip on specialty cocktails. Whether you’re visiting for brunch or dinner, Blue Streak sets the scene for a delicious meal that features refreshing California-inspired cuisine. SANTA MONICA

www.loewshotels.com/santa-monica

EAT, SLEEP, REPEAT

THE HAPPIEST OF HOURS

• Stop by Silver Trumpet between 2 and 6 p.m. to take advantage of Costa Mesa’s best happy hour: $10 specialty cocktails, $6 beers and discounted bites!

DINE AND STAY AT THESE HOTELS WITH TOP-NOTCH RESTAURANTS

COME MONDAY CAFE

Located at: Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs

Written By: Allie Lebos

• Between the tropical palm leaf wallpaper and the sleek booths, Come Monday Cafe is one of Palm Springs’ hippest brunch spots. If the weather is nice (let’s be honest—it will be), sit on their spacious patio under the hanging lights with a pineapple cocktail in hand. PALM SPRINGS

SILVER TRUMPET RESTAURANT & BAR

Located at: Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa • Silver Trumpet has everything from a sleek indoor bar to a gorgeous patio that offers serene lake views under towering palm trees. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this chic Costa Mesa eatery serves up contemporary American cuisine all day long. The braised short rib is a must-try! COSTA MESA

www.margaritavilleresorts.com

www.silvertrumpetrestaurant.com

WESTERLY PUBLIC HOUSE Located at: The Monsaraz San Diego

SIP IN PARADISE

• After grabbing a bite at Come Monday Cafe, head over to the 5 o'Clock Somewhere Bar for a fruity cocktail and see what it’s really like to live like Jimmy Buffett. 82 LOCALE MAGAZINE

• The Monsaraz’s Westerly Public House brings a taste of Australia to the California coast with craft cocktails, local beers and Australianinspired dishes that feature farm-fresh ingredients. Snag a spot at the bar or grab a table on their tiled patio for a dinner under the San Diego sky. POINT LOMA

www.westerlysd.com

• Piper in Oceanside creates garden-totable delicacies like fresh, handmade pastas all while supporting small farms and artisanal businesses. The coastalcool dining room features teal accents and globe light fixtures, making it the ideal place for an intimate yet laid-back dining experience. OCEANSIDE

foodie /// guide

Local live music fills the air seven days a week, making Cafe Sevilla one of the coolest date-night options around.

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GET YOUR GRUB N’ GROOVE ON AT THESE LIVE MUSIC HOTSPOTS Written By: Jane Adler | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar Pair your main course with a side of live music at these hoppin’ SoCal hot spots. Ideal for a night on the town with friends or switching up your usual Friday-night dinner plans, these restaurants know a thing or two about entertaining. Pop in for a delicious evening filled with drinks, dinner and fun for all the senses. Don’t forget your dancin’ shoes!

1 TREVOR’S AT THE TRACKS

• Trevor’s at the Tracks is a south OC staple where wave riders and horse riders alike can groove and grub to tunes from local musicians. Offering live music seven days a week, 84 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Trevor’s at the Tracks’ patio is the perfect place to listen to live tunes while sharing a fig and fungi flatbread, ahi poke nachos or double-decker snappin’ tacos. SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

www.trevorsatthetracks.com

WINSTON HOUSE

CAFE SEVILLA

• This place feels more like a studio executive’s living room than it does a restaurant, and you’ll feel like you scored an invite to the hippest haunt in town when stepping through the door. With a regular rotation of live music and DJs—including surprise guest appearances by some famous familiar faces— Winston House knows how to pair munchies with music so everyone can satisfy their cool kid cravings. VENICE

www.winstonhouse.com

• Ready to party like the Spaniards do? Yeah, we thought so. Saunter on down to Cafe Sevilla for some salsa-style fun. This beloved Latin locale features famous plates like paella, ceviche and Iberico ham all paired with the sounds of Spain. Local live music fills the air seven days a week, making Cafe Sevilla one of the coolest date-night options around. COSTA MESA, LONG BEACH, SAN DIEGO

www.cafesevilla.com

ROCK & BREWS

THE TROPICALE

• Founded by Gene Simmons of KISS, you better expect some good tunes at this American gastropub. This is the joint to jive at, whether you are looking to grab a draft beer or shake those buns (we’re talking about the Gastropub burger, obviously) to some classic rock ‘n’ roll. Here, you’ll find picnic-table seating, projection screens, concert lighting and a “Great Wall of Rock”—a tribute to legendary icons. BUENA PARK, EL SEGUNDO, REDONDO BEACH, TUSTIN

• Take a trip to the tropics at this Palm Springs staple that’s located right off of Hwy 111. This saucy spot is like “Havana Nights” meets “Miami Vice”—perfect for a night of dinner and debauchery. Sure, the food is delicious, but you really come here for the va-va-voom vibes and to see and be seen. PALM SPRINGS

www.rockandbrews.com

apps.thetropicale.com

Photos - Trevor’s at the Tracks: Wales Communications | Winston House: Local LA | Cafe Sevilla | Rock & Brews

TURNIN’ TABLES

SOMETHING TO SIP ON CHEERS TO A FUN EVENING AHEAD

Must-Order Drink:

SMOKE ON THE WATER Rock & Brews

Must-Order Drink:

PACIFIC PISCO SOUR Trevor’s at the Tracks

Must-Order Drink:

BAYBREEZE

Winston House

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Photos - Park 101: Grind & Prosper | Delilah: Courtesy of Delilah | The h.wood Group

6 PARK 101 • What happens when you mix a backyard BBQ with a jammin’ concert? You get Park 101. This Carlsbad culinary cutie is serving up fresh food and frozen drinks all while putting the “bar” back in barbecue. The indoor/outdoor vibe allows for visitors to bite to the beat with all you can meat…er, eat. CARLSBAD

www.park101carlsbad.com

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Must-Order Drink:

DRAKE’S SPRITZER Delilah

Must-Order Drink:

SMOKE SHOW 2.0 Park 101

THE NEST

DELILAH

• This iconic Indian Wells establishment is one-part dinner and two-parts dancing. A locally loved pit stop no matter your age, The Nest is a place where you can grub and groove with live music starting at 6:30 every night. The steak and shake might become your signature move after enjoying a petite filet followed by a foray on the dance floor. INDIAN WELLS

• Delilah has risen to fame in its own right as a celebrity hot spot, hosting just about every mainstream media millennial with over 10k followers. With an old Hollywood speakeasy-style interior, it’s easy to forget what decade you’re in while munching on childhood favorites like mac and cheese or chicken tenders. Dine to the sounds of Drake (he might even be there!) or spring for a Sunday reservation to enjoy their weekly jazz night! WEST HOLLYWOOD

www.gotothenest.com

Must-Order Drink:

COCONUT MARTINI The Tropicale

Must-Order Drink:

DIRTY MARTINI The Nest

Must-Order Drink:

OAXACAN FLOWER Cafe Sevilla

www.delilahla.com

LOCALE MAGAZINE 85

foodie /// guide

BEYOND THE DODGER DOG CHEER ON THE LOS ANGELES DODGERS AS YOU DIG INTO THESE TASTY BITES

While we love the classics like salted peanuts and a large soda, these Dodger Stadium eats are a total home run.

In addition to being one of the most renowned sports venues, Dodger Stadium has some amazing eats for you to enjoy while catching an epic ball game. The stadium is best known for its legendary Dodger Dogs, but the food menu has some other tasty items that will seriously make your mouth water. While we love the classics like salted peanuts and a large soda, these Dodger Stadium eats are a total home run. Written By: Allie Lebos Photos By: Los Angeles Dodgers DODGER STADIUM

1000 Vin Scully Ave Los Angeles, CA 90012 866.363.4377 www.mlb.com/dodgers/ballpark 86 LOCALE MAGAZINE

TERIYAKI BOWL

BURNT-END NACHOS

SMOKED ELOTE

MICHELADA SAUSAGE

Where: Bao Bowls

Where: Think Blue BBQ

Where: Dodgers Food Truck

• There’s just something about nachos and baseball that pair perfectly together. However, these burnt-end nachos are next level! In addition to classic nacho cheese, this dish is topped with crispy BBQ burnt ends before being smothered in BBQ sauce, BBQ-spiced sour cream and spicy jalapenos.

• The smoked elote at Dodger Stadium offers a unique twist on the Mexican favorite. Before mixing the corn in with all of the classic goodies like mayo and cheese, it is first smoked with applewood, giving it an intense flavor that is enhanced by some BBQ spice.

• The Michelada sausage is an innovative take on a hot dog, which is undoubtedly baseball's most beloved snack. After the longaniza sausage is properly marinated in a batch of Michelada, it is placed in a Tajín-coated bun and topped with smoked crispy pork belly, chili-lime aioli and cilantro.

• Looking to fill your belly and snag a free souvenir? The teriyaki chicken bowl at Dodger Stadium comes in an adorable souvenir baseball bowl, giving you a chance to take a piece of the game home with you. Filled with soft rice and zesty grilled chicken, this dish is an absolute must-try.

LA SPICY CHICKEN SANDWICH Where: Chicken Change-Up • Served on a soft potato bun, the LA-style spicy chicken sandwich has a nice kick to it thanks to some napalm aioli and spicy pickles. This mouthwatering sandwich is perfectly crispy, giving you the ultimate crunch from the first to the last bite! Be sure to snag an ice-cold beer or soda to quench your thirst.

foodie /// guide

DIP & DINE

TABUS SHABU OFFERS AN AUTHENTIC, “COOK-IT-YOURSELF” HOT POT EXPERIENCE

Written By: Jaclyn Keagy | Photos By: Josie Gonzales, John Glover & David Chiem There’s a first time for everything—and no wrong way to do it when you dip and dine at Tabu Shabu, SoCal’s premier Japanese hot pot destination. Traditional Japanese cuisine combines seamlessly with a modern atmosphere alongside savory flavors, premium ingredients and homemade sauces. Though it’s a true DIY experience, your server’s pairing recommendations and cooking expertise is available at every turn. Ingredients, cookware and a stovetop are provided, while the rhythm, arrangement and creativity is all up to you. From the moment you walk through the doors, you immediately become blissfully aware that your dining experience won’t be your standard eat-and-run. With social bar seating, a buzzing atmosphere and a knowledgeable wait staff encouraging you to dig in and play with your food, it’s a place to think outside of the box—or bowl, rather.

MEET THE OWNER

At Tabu Shabu, all can feel at home to cook, create and consume, whether it’s trial number one or 100.

STEP 1

STEP 2

STEP 3

STEP 4

• Set the stovetop with a variety of selections: broth, veggies, noodles, rice and proteins. Begin with the broth—a savory, spicy or sweet base presented in a large hot pot. Your server will crank up the stove to the ideal temperature, get the broth bubbling and you’ll add your selection of fresh vegetables—a mix of shiitake mushrooms, broccoli, tofu and baby bok choy to name a few. Patience is key as you wait for your veggies to soak in the maximum amount of flavor.

• Plated with the vegetables are your noodles of choice (udon, shirataki or kale ramen noodles). After the veggies have been cooked to your liking, you’re ready to add in your noodles and meats. Whether you’ve chosen a thin-sliced prime ribeye cut or a sashimi-grade salmon, it will all perfectly cook up in about two minutes’ time—along with your noodles.

• Toss ‘em in all at once or meticulously one-by-one. Then, wait a few minutes until cooked through and violà! You’ve just conquered your very first Japanese hot pot experience. Now, it’s time to eat.

• The way you plate it is up to you: keep everything sectioned and separate, mix it all up on your plate or toss everything back into the hot pot for a soup-style dish. Creativity is key in this DIY experience!

• After being introduced to shabu shabu with his family when he was 5 years old, owner Jeff Chon grew up feeling that mainstream dining was missing this traditional Japanese experience. “I felt it was so underappreciated for its delicious simplicity yet was not simple enough to those who weren’t introduced to it.” While successfully operating other restaurants at the time, Chon decided to open up the first Tabu Shabu in Costa Mesa with the help of his childhood friends. It was made to appeal to the masses: those who have their hot pot down to a science and those who have never even heard of shabu shabu in all its glory. At Tabu Shabu, all can feel at home to cook, create and consume, whether it’s trial number one or 100.

TABU SHABU

Read the extended story on localemagazine.com 88 LOCALE MAGAZINE

San Diego, Carlsbad, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Orange, Thousand Oaks www.tabushabu.com @tabushabu

BELLY UP GET YOUR DRINK ON AT THESE 14 BARS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Written By: Jordan Nishkian Southern California may be known for its blue skies and warm weather, but locals know the only thing we like more than sunglasses are glasses filled with delicious craft cocktails! Whether it’s starting the day off with a boozy brunch or ending it with a nightcap, these bars throughout Los Angeles, Greater Palm Springs, Orange County and San Diego really know how to shake it up. Here are the best spots to grab a drink in SoCal.

MULDOON’S IRISH PUB

Blinking Owl Distillery

ORANGE COUNTY BLINKING OWL DISTILLERY Must-Order Drink: Dirty Bird Martini

• Known for its focus on grain-to-glass craft, Blinking Owl Distillery has made a name for itself by using 100% organic Californiagrown grains to create its sensational spirits, including vodka, OC Orange vodka, aquavit, gin, bourbon, rye and more. Pull up a chair in the tasting room to enjoy a flight, an aperitif with housemade schnapps, cocktails or yummy food. SANTA ANA

www.blinkingowldistillery.com

LEISURETOWN

Must-Order Drink: Fortunate Islands Pale Ale • If you love Modern Times beer, then you’ll adore their sprawling 33,000-squarefoot tasting room—lovingly dubbed Leisuretown. But don’t expect your typical brewery; this is a mindbending mix of brewery, beer garden, mini-market and three-story historic home. Not only does it feature 70 taps of delicious beers and ciders, house-roasted coffee, wine and tasty bites, but 90 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Leisuretown also has a pool for guests 21 and up. ANAHEIM

www.moderntimesbeer.com/tastingroom/anaheim

HELMSMAN ALE HOUSE Must-Order Drink: Helmsman Special

• As Newport Beach’s first and only brewpub, Helmsman Ale House is the perfect place to cozy up and enjoy delicious bites, refreshing beer and a comfortable neighborhood ambiance. Whether you’re sampling a flight with a giant soft pretzel or indulging in a decadent meal with cocktails, get ready to seas the day and have one hull of a good time! NEWPORT BEACH

www.helmsmanalehouse.com

Leisuretown

• Since 1974, Muldoon’s Irish Pub has brought Newport Beach locals and visitors together over good food and drink. Aside from the classic pint, some favorite drinks at Muldoon’s include the Doon Spritzer, the Guinness Shake and the classic Irish coffee. And if you’re looking for a bite, we recommend the fish and chips, an awardwinning burger or the decadent mint chip mud pie. With its pub-style dining room and charming outdoor courtyard, Muldoon’s is a stellar place for brunch with friends, a date night or a few pints with pals. Oh, and did we mention that their patio is dog-friendly? NEWPORT BEACH

www.muldoonspub.com

The Brews Hall

LOS ANGELES THE BREWS HALL Must-Order Drink: Frozen Impala Margarita

• If you’re heading to The Brews Hall, there are only three things you need to prepare yourself for: good drinks, good food and good times! With an expansive menu of brews, cocktails, boozy milkshakes and tasty bites from George Lopez’s Chingon Kitchen, Colin Cowherd’s The Herd and more, you’re in for a fun night and a full stomach. HERMOSA BEACH, TORRANCE

www.thebrewshall.com

JUNESHINE TASTING ROOM

ONLY THE WILD ONES

Must-Order Drink: White Wine Old Fashioned • Curious about natural wine? Make a day of it at Only the Wild Ones, where they’re pouring sustainable, natural and biodynamic wines by the glass along with low-ABV cocktails and mocktails. Our favorite pairing to go with your glass of natural wine? Some fresh bread that’s baked in-house daily! This charming spot also offers a wine club that will curate special bottles for you to try. VENICE BEACH

www.onlythewildones.com

Must-Order Drink: Midnight Painkiller

• If someone ever asks you to go to a hard kombucha tasting room in Santa Monica, don’t write it off as one of the most millennialAngeleno sentences you’ve ever heard—consider it an opportunity for a truly great time. Born in San Diego, JuneShine has quickly become a SoCal favorite for fun, adventurous flavors that will leave you feeling buzzed and your gut feeling happy. SANTA MONICA

www.juneshine.com/pages/santamonica-tasting-menu

Only the Wild Ones

Photos - Blinking Owl Distillery: Ron De Angelis | Leisuretown: Celina Reyes | Muldoon’s Irish Pub | The Brews Hall | Only the Wild Ones

foodie /// guide

Wormwood

Photos - Wormwood: Arlene Ibarra | Flamingo Deck: Andrea Wilkinson | Understory at DMHTC: Kimberly Motos | Dead or Alive Bar + Shop: Andréa Morrisette | Tailor Shop

UNDERSTORY AT DMHTC

SAN DIEGO FLAMINGO DECK

SYCAMORE DEN

• Bright, quirky and unforgettable, Flamingo Deck is the perfect place for you and all your birds of a feather to enjoy specialty cocktails, a warm ocean breeze and a gorgeous New American menu with an Italian influence. For a really good time, say “flock it” and order bottle service or a specialty cocktail in a shareable flamingo punch bowl—you’ll be tickled pink in no time! PACIFIC BEACH

• Featuring an impressive whiskey selection, plenty of beers and an intimate ambiance, Sycamore Den is a cozy neighborhood bar that prides itself on creating enticing craft cocktails in a fun, vibrant environment. Come for a drink, then stay for the live music or one of Sycamore Den’s weekly events like drag queen bingo, trivia night or burlesque night. NORMAL HEIGHTS

Must-Order Drink: Lil’ Shin Dig

www.flamingodeck.com

Must-Order Drink: The Ticket

www.sycamoreden.com

WORMWOOD

Must-Order Drink: Le Frappe • Absinthe has gotten a bad rap, but this charming restaurant with a bohemian ambiance is setting the record straight. Aside from its whimsical menu, Wormwood also serves up the best absinthe available and offers an education on the spirit while doing so. Wormwood has undoubtedly made absinthe the star of the menu—you can find it straight from the dripper, mixed in cocktails and even in a few of the dishes! UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS

www.wormwoodsd.com

• In the center of Del Mar Highlands’ Sky Deck, an allnew restaurant collective, you’ll find Understory—a captivating and mysterious bar that serves up only the finest, most adventurous cocktails and light bites. Some of our favorite sips include the Pompadour Cotinga, the Bohemian Waxwing, Van Dam’s Vanga, the Satanic Nightjar and Prince Ruspoli’s Turaco, which is served in the cutest little elephant glass. If you’ve worked up an appetite, order a charcuterie board to graze on and keep the party going. With decor inspired by the layer of forest between the tree canopy and forest floor, an eclectic mix of live music and beautifully garnished drinks, you’re sure to be feeling nocturnal in no time. DEL MAR

www.dmhtc.com/skydeck

Flamingo Deck

Dead or Alive Bar + Shop

GREATER PALM SPRINGS DEAD OR ALIVE BAR + SHOP

Must-Order Drink: 2020 Raft Wines Cavaillon • With a magnificent wine selection featuring reds, whites, rosés, sparkling, naturals and more, Dead or Alive Bar + Shop is every wine-lover’s dream. Enjoy light bites and try out some wines by the glass, then take some bottles home from the shop. Don’t miss the Brine Bar pop-up—it might be the best place to indulge in raw oysters in the desert! PALM SPRINGS

TAILOR SHOP

Must-Order Drink: Highball • New to North Palm Canyon Dr., Tailor Shop brings all the craft and style bespoke to uptown Palm Springs’ mixology scene. The decor exudes midcentury elegance, allowing you to live out any “Mad Men'' fantasies you may have. Get ready to get dolled up and sip on some high-quality spirits that are, as Don Draper would say, “simple but significant.” PALM SPRINGS

www.tailorshopps.com

www.deadoralivebarandshop.com

OUT THERE BAR Must-Order Drink: Cosmo

• With its salmon-pink exterior and psychedelic decor, this bar has certainly lived up to its name. Head to Out There Bar to leave your worries at the door, play some pool, enjoy a cold pint and groove a little under the disco ball. Although it’s fairly new on the desert scene, Out There Bar’s eclectic style and friendly employees make it feel like it’s been around for years. TWENTYNINE PALMS

@outtherebar

Tailor Shop LOCALE MAGAZINE 91

foodie /// guide

IT’S ALL FUN AND GAMES… LEVEL-UP YOUR EVENING AT THESE ENTERTAINING ARCADES FOR ADULTS

Written By: Christian Waizinger At the center of every great night out there are two key elements: eats and entertainment. And with tons of unique and exciting new spots featuring enough tasty bites and merriment to last well throughout the evening, Southern California is the perfect place to pursue this timeless combo. With that said, it’s time to grab a pint and get your game face on!

SAUCED BBQ & SPIRITS

Must-Order: Smoke Dinosaur Beef Rib

• Born out of a desire to bring authentic Southern barbecue to a whole new crowd, Sauced BBQ & Spirits provides smoky, authentic barbecue alongside some of the best whiskey cocktails in the state. And in true Southern fashion, once you’re done delving into your meal, head on over to their axe-throwing cage and try your hand at one of the most iconic country activities that SoCal has to offer. ORANGE

www.saucedbbqandspirits.com

Must-Order: Loaded Tater Tots

THE SPARE ROOM IN HOLLYWOOD ROOSEVELT HOTEL

• Perhaps one of the swankiest spots on our list, The Spare Room, located in the heart of the iconic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, offers an upscale, parloresque dining and gaming experience. Hailed as a premium, vintage cocktail lounge, The Spare Room features an award-winning lineup of signature drinks as well as two bowling lanes for patrons to enjoy. HOLLYWOOD

Must-Order: The Goldenback

PUNCH BOWL SOCIAL

Must-Order: Daily Featured Punch Bowl

• Located inside a once-famous boxing marquee, Punch Bowl Social takes eating and entertainment to a whole new level. Featuring a 360-degree bar, an expansive menu of tap room favorites, bowling lanes, shuffleboard courts and weekly karaoke, Punch Bowl Social has enough entertainment to keep guests on their feet for hours. EAST VILLAGE

www.punchbowlsocial.com

www.spareroomhollywood.com

MISSION CONTROL Must-Order: Pac-Man Sour

• Located at McFadden Public Market, Mission Control will have your inner child bouncing off the walls as you sip on your favorite cocktails. With a massive arcade featuring a host of pinball machines and arcade classics (think Galaga and Pac-Man), Mission Control will have you feeling like a kid again while still enjoying the thirst-quenching perks of adulthood. SANTA ANA

www.mcfaddenmarket.com/arcade-mission-control

TWO BIT CIRCUS

Must-Order: I Scream Sandwiches

COIN HAUS

Must-Order: Coin Haus House Blonde

• For the beer aficionados, Coin Haus has everything a fanatic of the frothy favorite could want. With a rotating selection of over 50 craft beers on draft as well as vintage arcade machines and air hockey tables lining the rustic, wooden interior, Coin Haus is the perfect escape for anyone seeking a return to the classics. LA MESA

www.cohnrestaurants.com/coinhaus 92 LOCALE MAGAZINE

• A bar and restaurant experience unlike any other, Two Bit Circus is one of Los Angeles’ premier nightlife destinations. Featuring everything from a virtual reality arena and a massive performance theater to elaborate, heartracing escape rooms and all the food and drink one could want, Two Bit Circus is a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their weekend plans. DTLA

www.twobitcircus.com

• Want to try your hand at topping the charts on some of your favorite ‘80s arcade games? Coin-Op Game Room in North Park, San Diego is the place for you. Boasting an impressive array of signature cocktails, craft beer and innovative appetizers, this “barcade” is always packed and it’s easy to see why. NORTH PARK

www.coinopsd.com

THE SLIPPER CLUTCH Must-Order: A Classic Highball

• With its signature, retro speakeasy feel, The Slipper Clutch is an awesome and adventurous place to grab a drink. Featuring multiple floors of table games, an upstairs bar area and a gorgeous balcony, this hidden spot behind Bar Clacson is the perfect stop for a nightcap. DTLA

www.theslipperclutch.com

Photos - Sauced BBQ & Spirits: Leonel Calara | The Spare Room in Hollywood Roosevelt: Marisa Vitale | Punch Bowl Social | Coin Haus: Cohn Restaurant Group | Two Bit Circus: Hunter Weiss

COIN-OP GAME ROOM

foodie /// guide

THE 21-YEAR-OLD DAIQUIRI

THE CLASSIC HIGHBALL

THE OLD FASHIONED

MASH UP

THESE SMOOTH AND SMOKY COCKTAILS WILL BE YOUR 5 O’CLOCK CRAVING

THE CLASSIC HIGHBALL

THE OLD FASHIONED

THE 21-YEAROLD DAIQUIRI

GLENFIDDICH 15 YEAR OLD

Featured Whisky: Glenfiddich 12 Year Old

Featured Whisky: Glenfiddich Bourbon Barrel Reserve 14 Year Old

Featured Whisky: Glenfiddich 21 Year Gran Reserva

Recipe: • 2 oz Glenfiddich 12 Year Old whisky • 4-6 oz of club soda or ginger ale

When it comes to whisky, it is tough to beat a classic. Start an evening affair with a simple whisky highball featuring Glenfiddich’s award winning 12year single malt scotch whisky—a great way to elevate your tastes without venturing too far into the deep end. As Allardice notes, “The key to the highball is all about finding the right whisky, and the classic 12 always works. The highball does a great job of taking that strong complex flavor profile and stretching it,” making it the perfect drink for those looking to dabble.

94 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Recipe: • 1 ½ oz of Glenfiddich Bourbon Barrel Reserve 14 Year Old whisky • 1 sugar cube (or simple syrup) • 2 dashes Angostura bitters

Moving from one classic to the next, the old fashioned is the ultimate whisky cocktail. Simple, sweet, smoky and savory, this cocktail has been around since the 1800s—and for good reason. While typically poured with bourbon rather than scotch, Glenfiddich has crafted a special 14-year-old batch, “using bourbon barrels to age and influence the whisky,” according to Allardice, making it the perfect substitute in this delicious drink.

Recipe: • 2 oz Glenfiddich 21 Year Gran Reserva • 3/4 oz lime juice • 3/4 oz simple syrup

For the adventurous advocate, the 21-year old daiquiri is one of the best, most unique cocktails behind the bar. While typically made with rum, the Glenfiddich 21 Year Gran Reserva is the ultimate way to elevate the traditional daiquiri to new heights. “Finished in old Caribbean rum casks, the 21-year-old daiquiri is my go-to cocktail whenever I’m feeling boujee,” says Allardice. “It always surprises me.”

We enlisted Allardice’s help in tracking down the three very best whiskies that Glenfiddich has to offer, inviting rookies and connoisseurs alike to try them out. And there is no better place to start than the Glenfiddich 15 Year Old. “This is the whisky that got me into whisky,” says Allardice. With notes of classic Spanish flavors and hints of sherry and ginger, this whisky has been pleasing palates ever since it hit the shelves.

GLENFIDDICH GRAND CRU 23 YEAR OLD

Hailed as the Cadillac of the Glenfiddich family, the 23-year Grand Cru is the perfect upscale addition to any home bar. Whether you are a collector or someone simply looking for a taste of the upper echelon, this whisky is sure to impress. “Made with fine French wines in mind, the Grand Cru is finished in rare French oak barrels, making it the perfect bottle to pop on a special occasion,” Allardice explains.

THE EXPERT

DAVID ALLARDICE GLENFIDDICH AMBASSADOR @daveinparadice

GLENFIDDICH GRANDE COURONNE 26 YEAR OLD

Arguably Glenfiddich’s magnum opus, the Grande Couronne is the ideal bottle to add to any collection. “Aged for 24 years in American oak and sherry casks and then finished for two years in French cognac barrels,” Allardice says the Grande Couronne has layers of brown sugar and a hint of rich spice, giving it a depth of character perfectly suited for any elevated occasion.

We enlisted the help of Glenfiddich ambassador David Allardice, a 10year veteran of the whisky industry, to give us a few new ways to celebrate with whisky. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the spirit or are simply looking for a great introduction, these six whiskies and whisky cocktails are ones you’ll want to enjoy all year long.

GLENFIDDICH

@glenfiddichwhisky

Photoshoot Location: FIG

101 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90401 310.319.3111 www.figsantamonica.com

Written By: Christian Waizinger Photos By: Jared Schlachet + Joe Magnani Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar

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foodie /// guide

PASSWORD, PLEASE? SIP IN SECRET AT THESE SPEAKEASY-STYLE CONCEPTS | Written By: Joy Sun

We may not be in the prohibition era anymore, but the speakeasy concept is here to stay. Hidden entrances, misleading names—it’s all part of the fun! Many of these businesses are hidden in plain sight, so it’ll take a little more effort to find them, but we promise that it’s well worth the hunt. Whether it’s tiki- or 20s-themed, these low-key spots will transport you to another place and time. Here are nine of SoCal’s coolest hidden bars, speakeasies and businesses.

EMPLOYEES ONLY • This prohibition-style bar may already be on your radar—it’s not exactly hidden. Employees Only was listed as one of the World’s 50 Best Bars for a reason. Get ready to splurge and treat yourself to oysters, truffle fries and endless liquor options! WEST HOLLYWOOD

www.employeesonlyla.com

Photos - False Idol: Brogen Jessup | Employees Only: Eliott Montero | An’s Dry Cleaning: Kris Warren

REALM OF THE 52 REMEDIES • Located within Common Theory, an American brewhouse, the Realm couldn’t be more different. This Chinese medicinethemed speakeasy transports imbibers back in time to the Far East. Within the confines of this sultry space, you’ll find the remedies to all your ailments in carefully concocted food and drinks. KEARNY MESA

www.52remedies.com

False Idol

FALSE IDOL

AN’S DRY CLEANING

• Craft & Commerce is a gem worth checking out on its own, but inside is a tiki paradise that’ll have you dreaming of the tropics. Get a taste of the island lifestyle, and make sure you order a punch bowl for some fun theatrics—think thunderstorms! LITTLE ITALY

• No, this isn’t the place to bring your suede or silk garments—just your sweet tooth. Grab a cone of scratch-made gelato or sorbet in the former drycleaning store that served North Park for over a decade. Here, some flavors are even named after apparel, such as the Beanie (Nutella bread pudding) and the Oxford (blueberry rice milk). NORTH PARK

www.falseidoltiki.com

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www.adcgelato.com

foodie /// guide

PASSWORD, PLEASE? SIP IN SECRET AT THESE SPEAKEASY-STYLE CONCEPTS | Written By: Joy Sun

HERMOSA TAQUERIA • For some quality Mexican food, look no further than this taqueria located inside Union Market at The District at Tustin Legacy. Enjoy authentic tacos and burritos like cochinita pibil (traditional Mexican slowroasted pork) in an upscale, trendy setting. For $1 off, stop by on Taco Tuesday! TUSTIN

www.hermosataqueria.net

RUIN BAR • Next time you’re at The Lab in Costa Mesa, keep an eye out for some “ruins.” They’re nestled in a surreptitious setting right by Habana. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by Ruin Bar’s kitschy and eclectic decor! COSTA MESA

www.theruinbar.com

THE GREEN ROOM

UNDER CDM

• These days, not every speakeasy has to be underground. The Green Room is an intimate and seductive lounge located behind a secret door at Castaway. Here, you’ll be pampered and treated like the star of the show. Grab a cocktail and revel in its best-kept secret: the views of the city. BURBANK

• This speakeasy gets its name from literally being under the restaurant, CdM. To find it, locate the staircase to the right of the main entrance that leads to the bar’s red upholstered leather door. Enter, and you’ll find an intimate space with red velvet sofas and a retro 1940’s photo booth. For classy vibes and craft cocktails made with precision, this is a must-visit. CORONA DEL MAR

www.tgrburbank.com

The Green Room

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Under CdM

www.riverjettyrg.com/cdm

PS AIR BAR • You don’t need a boarding pass to join this mile-high club. Located inside Palm Springs’ fine wine store Bouschet sits PS Air Bar—an aviation-themed cocktail bar. Think party bus vibes but on a plane. You’ll feel like you’re flying first class when wining and dining here! PALM SPRINGS

www.psairbar.com

Photos - Hermosa Taqueria: Ed Visions and Niki Cram | The Green Room: Max Milla | Under CdM: Lily Fassnacht | PS Air Bar

Hermosa Taqueria

shoppe March 2022 /// creativity. determination. serenity.

PHOTO BY: Emma Sabo, Clay + Craft • CLAY + CRAFT 810 N Coast Hwy 101, Ste C, Encinitas, CA 92024 | 303.957.6234 | www.clayandcraft.com

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Behind the Brand

Spinning the Wheel These SoCal Pottery Studios Offer Inclusive, Creative Classes to the Community

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“I am creative to my core. Doing the renovation at Brian’s 24 was some of the most fun I’ve had in awhile. I was so excited to open and have my community breathe life into the space that I poured my love, sweat and tears into.”

EYES OF LOCAL R EST AU RA TE U

Style Inspo

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living like a local

• I am a chameleon when it comes to fashion. I either am the lowest of low maintenance or I am in a meat dress a la Lady Gaga. I pull a lot of daily style inspo from streetwear. One part of me loves Kendall Jenner or Kaia Gerber post-NYFW on the streets of the Lower East Side—their perfectly fitted denim, easy white tee, moto boots and a clean face. The other side of me wants Met Gala drama: sheer tops and boots up to my elbows.

San Diego

Get Juiced

See You at the Spa

ars

Start to Finish

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CHELSEA CAHAN Owner of Brian’s 24 and Del Mar Rendezvous LL

2 IVI N G: 1

• I love being a part of creating a restaurant from conception to completion. Forming a brand and conceptualizing a space are some of my favorite parts of this industry and role. Having a blank canvas and being able to use my creativity to create something from scratch is so rewarding.

Creating Her Community

3 FAVORITE PLACES TO SHOP IN SAN DIEGO

Explorin’ O’side

• With stores like Badlands Vintage and The Rising Co., Oceanside has become a new little gold mine for me to explore. This superwalkable town not only has great places to stop for a bite and coffee, but it also has amazing accommodation options like the breathtaking new Seabird Resort. www.theseabirdresort.com

VAN DE VORT

BOULEVARD

• I’m sure most San Diegans have heard of Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa or their very well-known cocktail bar, The Pony Room, but I think the Spa at Rancho Valencia deserves a spotlight. Not only are the services superb every time I go, but the amenities (from their homemade banana bread to their cold plunge pool) and customer service are worth every penny. Pro tip: if you make an appointment at the spa, you get a free full-day pass to their adult spa pool. www.ranchovalencia.com

MARROW FINE JEWELRY

Brian’s 24 828 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 | www.brians24.com | Del Mar Rendezvous 1555 Camino Del Mar, Ste 102, Del Mar, CA 92014 | 858.755.2669 | www.dmrendezvous.com 102 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Photos - Chelsea Cahan: Emilynn Rose Photography | The Rising Co.: Mary Carol Fitzgerald | Illustrations - Vicente Martí Solar

ENT OF: La lla Jo

• Juice Wave is a tiny little joint in Mission Beach. Recently, this has become one of my favorite stops during the week. My kids love the acai bowls, and I usually go for the freshpressed juices (celery is my go-to). The owner gets the majority of her produce from the farmers market. Helping local farmers and locally owned restaurants: that’s a win-win for me! www.juicewavesd.com

Self-Care Stop

• Lavande in La Jolla is one of the most unique spots in all of San Diego, functioning as both a wellness/spiritual boutique and holistic cafe. The store/cafe curates gifts and food on a conscious level of living. I will go in to pick up a rose quartz crystal and matcha latte all in one stop. They also have a full calendar of events that range from sound healing and kids meditation to new moon cacao ceremonies. www.loveandlavande.com

“I love that our business celebrates the rich traditions and cultures of Mesoamerica and our Latinx identity. We’re challenging ourselves to create memorable, nutritious and unique offerings so people can experience bread and pan dulce in a whole new way.”

R KE

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A Local Gem

living like a local

G Long Beach

Turning Pages

• Marida Ngov designs and makes beautiful and delicate jewelry herself, which is on display at her brick-and-mortar storefront. In addition, she curates a selection of high-quality home and personal goods from unique brands. Marida Jewelry is another Retro Row tenant, so it's also a must-stop when visiting Gusto Bread. www.maridajewelry.com

• Chris at Page Against the Machine created a radical bookstore where you can find an amazing selection of new and used books that will open your mind and inspire you to change the world (or what you can of it anyway)—and it’s neighbors with Gusto Bread! www.patmbooks.com

Ciao Down

• La Parolaccia Osteria Italiana is a beautiful familyowned restaurant run by honest and hardworking folks, offering some of the best food and service in town. They’ve been in business at this location for over a decade and are loved by so many people, including customers both old and new. www.laparolacciausa.com

For the Community

T OF: Lon g

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ARTURO ENCISO Owner and Baker of Gusto Bread

RES

ach Be

• I enjoy the creative challenge of being an entrepreneur, and it feels great to offer good jobs to fellow bakers and servers. There is a strong sense of community and reciprocity in running a small business and making food that is so meaningful to us all. www.gustobread.com

IVI N G:

3 FAVORITE PASTRIES AND BREADS AT GUSTO BREAD

• Colorado Lagoon, an 18-acre saltwater tidal lagoon in Long Beach, is our favorite place to enjoy a leisurely walk or an afternoon picnic. The habitat has been restored in recent years with native plants and offers a lovely experience to see the local wildlife (birds, stingrays and more). www.longbeach.gov/park/recreationprograms/aquatics/colorado-lagoon

• We started as a cottage bakery in downtown Long Beach in 2017 and launched our storefront in August 2020 on Retro Row (Fourth St). I started this business because it was my passion to make bread and share it with the community.

NIXTAMAL QUEEN

Gusto Bread 2710 E 4th St, Long Beach, CA 90814 | 562.343.1881 | www.gustobread.com

HUESO

CONCHA

Photos - Gusto Bread | Illustrations - Vicente Martí Solar

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Pace and Quiet

Sourdough Starter

Photos - Pantora Bridal/AP Headshots: Kesha Lambert | Pantora LA: Courtesy of ROW DTLA | MTC Season 2 Photos: Courtesy of Amazon Prime Video

shoppe /// spotlight

In Good Fashion This New York-based Jamaican-American Fashion Designer Knows a Thing or Two About Making Dreams Come True

Andrea Pitter Fashion Designer

Written By: Kandace Cornell Since being crowned the season two winner of “Making the Cut”—the highstakes competition reality show for talented fashion designers ready to take their brands to the next level—Andrea Pitter has expanded her New Yorkborn line. Pantora Bridal (which arrived on the scene in 2013 as a 400-square-foot shop in Brooklyn’s Crown Heights neighborhood) is now a bicoastal, e-commerce brand in partnership with the powerhouse Amazon Fashion.

Now with three national locations—the flagship store and two more within DTLA’s shopping mecca, ROW DTLA— the fruits of Pitter’s labor since setting her sights on fashion design at age 12 have only continued to blossom. After graduating from the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology, Pitter fell in love with bridal design and knew she wanted to open her own salon. “I knew that Black women were going to be at the core of my business because I didn’t see Black women in magazines as brides; I didn’t see them in any major campaigns,” Pitter says. “I started my business online…I had been creating all of these bridal gowns and none of them were for Black women. So I said, ‘If I open this store where I know Black women are, they will come.’” And come, they did. Although she initially wore nearly every hat—from completing

administrative tasks to seamstressing—Pitter’s team has grown exponentially from her initial success. “We’re joy-focused, and we’re inclusive,” Pitter says of Pantora. “We offer relatable luxury. I always felt like luxury seemed to be reserved for the haves, not the have-nots, but happiness and being celebrated shouldn’t be reserved for anybody in particular.” After many years of running her own team, “Making the Cut” came along and pushed Pitter in new ways. “In episode five, I had done what felt like my best work on the show,” Pitter explains. “I came in second [place] again…but I felt like such a winner. I made my own jaw drop. I was so proud of myself, and I was like, sometimes that’s what winning looks like. Sometimes it’s just for you. If you feel like you’re winning, no one can take that from you.” In the final episode, the judges also recognized Pitter as the winner she truly is. In addition to the jackpot prize of $1 million, Pitter also left the show rewarded with the messages she receives daily from viewers and fans. As for those who wear and will continue to wear Pantora designs? “I want them to feel joy; I want them to feel like every day is worth celebrating,” Pitter says. “Every day we should put on the things that make us smile. Especially in this climate, I feel like we're all searching for something to smile about.”

Name Game

The moniker Pantora is derived from Pitter’s own name: P for Pitter, AN for Andrea and Tora for her middle name.

A Shining Light

Pitter’s favorite piece from the new collection is a unisex blue printed tracksuit that she designed on the show and also wore to the premiere of Amazon’s original series, “Harlem.” “It feels like joy; it looks like joy,” she says.

“We offer relatable luxury. I always felt like luxury seemed to be reserved for the haves, not the have-nots, but happiness and being celebrated shouldn’t be reserved for anybody in particular.” —Andrea Pitter

Check It Out

The 2022 line is known as the Honor Collection, paying homage to the past eight years as the brand evolves and transitions, and it includes pieces from the finale of “Making the Cut.”

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ANDREA PITTER www.andreapitter.com @andrea_pittercampbell PANTORA ROW DTLA 1318 E 7th St, Ste 120 Los Angeles, CA 90021 www.pantora.com

shoppe /// behind the brand Pottery Lover • Clay + Craft’s Novena discovered her love of pottery in high school. She’s such a die-hard fan that she even built a makeshift pottery studio in her closet!

Spinning the Wheel These SoCal Pottery Studios Offer Inclusive, Creative Classes to the Community Written By: Jennifer Pellerito

Ready to get fired up over a new hobby? The slow craft of pottery is a perfect pastime for a few hours of escape from the digital world. Whether you’re sitting at the wheel or building by hand, this centuries-old craft is sure to keep you focused and in touch with the present moment. Roll up your sleeves and try your hand at the potter’s wheel!

ARTIME BARRO

“[Clay] is the earth, and the fact that you can take dirt and make it into something functional and pretty is rad.” —Nicole Novena

“We wanted to bring art, specifically pottery, to our community because it’s a little more universal to all ages and all kinds of people.” —Nicole Moreno 1

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Keeping Things Cool • ARTime Barro has previously hosted a special two-day workshop featuring widely popular ceramics artist Eric Landon of Tortus Copenhagen Ceramics.

» Nicole Novena, founder of Clay + Craft, loves sharing her craft: “[Clay] is the earth, and the fact that you can take dirt and make it into something functional and pretty is rad.” Along with single and multi-week wheel classes, you can also shop the beautiful array of modern ceramics available for sale. The collection includes thoughtfully designed drinkware, carafes, mugs, bowls and more. Novena, who opened the studio just a few months before the pandemic, says the appreciation for handmade goods fuels the mission behind Clay + Craft. Stop in for selfcare, whether you’re spending solo time on the wheel or joining a group lesson. 810 N Coast Hwy 101, Ste C, Encinitas, CA 92024 303.957.6234 | www.clayandcraft.com

CLAY + CRAFT

Photos - ARTime Barro | Clay + Craft: Emma Sabo, Clay + Craft

Costa Mesa and Laguna Beach 949.981.4988 | www.artimebarro.com

CLAY + CRAFT

Clay + Craft

ARTime Barro

» Owned and operated by a mom-anddaughter duo, ARTime Barro fosters a sense of warmth and community for creatives. If you’re a beginner, you’ll start by learning the basics involving centering clay on the wheel. Co-founder Nicole Moreno says, “We wanted to bring art, specifically pottery, to our community because it’s a little more universal to all ages and all kinds of people.” As an artistic haven, ARTime Barro offers a place for beginners and advanced artists alike to unleash their creativity and wind down at the potter’s wheel. Drop in for a one-time lesson or join a four-week handbuilding and throwing class.

Throw Clay LA

Old Town Artisan Studios

1006 S Olive St Los Angeles, CA 90015 213.537.8050 www.throwclayla.com

78046 Cll Barcelona La Quinta, CA 92253 760.777.1444 www.oldtownartisanstudios.org

» Whether you’re making dishware or planters, you’re sure to enjoy the process at Throw Clay LA. Founded by potter John Prescott, the studio offers both one-time and six-week pottery classes for either hand-building or wheel-throwing options. “It’s more than teaching the technique; I want to be sure you have a good time,” says Prescott. “Whether or not you have two pieces that look centered after your first class, or one of them didn’t work out, that’s okay.” Beginners are welcome! The instructors at Throw Clay will lead you through the process, so you’ll come out with a piece you’ll be proud of.

» In its 16,000-square-foot space, Old Town Artisan Studios offers classes in clay, sculpture, painting and more for adults and children. The nonprofit also goes one step further—it brings the arts to local schools too. “We feel that art has a huge healing element to it,” says Executive Director Thomas Burns. “You see kids light up and smile when our instructors walk in the door.” Through its community outreach program called Mobile Mission, Old Town Artisan Studios brings the craft of clay to kids right where they’re at. Last year, the program hosted over 26,000 art experiences in the Coachella Valley!

OLD TOWN ARTISAN STUDIOS POT LA

Photos - Throw Clay LA: Throw Clay LA/Zolay | Old Town Artisan Studios | Pot LA: Sina Araghi

Pot LA

» “Pot is the first community pottery studio in the country designed for and by people of color,” says Mandy Kolahi, founder of Pot. “We first opened in response to the lack of diversity in pottery, and over the past few years, we’ve seen the pottery industry change a lot.” Since 2017, Pot has empowered those traditionally marginalized through pottery classes and workshops. “We are a beginners-oriented studio because a lot of us don’t grow up with the arts,” says Kolahi. Pot recently launched the Potluck Initiative, a nonprofit providing scholarships, free workshops, artist residencies and professional development to Black and Brown individuals. 1933 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026 323.522.6250 | www.potstudiola.com

THROW CLAY LA

Inclusivity at Its Best • Pot is the only pottery studio in Los Angeles offering classes taught in Spanish, making pottery more accessible to all. Those who are learning Spanish as a second language are also welcome!

Pot recently launched the Potluck Initiative, a nonprofit providing scholarships, free workshops, artist residencies and professional development to Black and Brown individuals. LOCALE MAGAZINE 109

shoppe /// behind the brand

For the Little Legends Young + Rad Creates Modern Apparel For the Little Grom in Your Life Written By: Ameihia Turingan Photos By: Young and Rad Community Dreamiest Design? » Piva’s favorite is the popular surf club T-shirt, which has a tiger on the back.

Shayna Piva Founder and Owner of Young + Rad Co.

Wonder Woman » Young + Rad is a single-employee brand. From fulfilling orders to managing the website, Piva does it all.

Founded by Shayna Piva, Young + Rad is an apparel brand for “rad little groms.” Inspired by surf and moto clothing, Young + Rad proves that kidswear doesn’t have to be cheesy. Piva started the brand after experiencing difficulty finding trendy, graphic T-shirts for her infant son. “I was shopping around and trying to find certain styles, [particularly] cool, effortless looks for the kids that weren’t your stereotypical dinosaurs and colorful stuff,” describes Piva. “I was having a hard time finding that, so I just decided that I was going to do it myself.” While Piva originally created designs for fun, she transitioned Young + Rad into a business in July 2021 after receiving positive feedback and inquiries on how to purchase the outfits that her child was wearing. When developing new garments, Piva finds inspiration by looking at what’s fresh and innovative for adults and translating these viral concepts into clothes that resonate with parents and children alike. 110 LOCALE MAGAZINE

“Mommy-and-me-type styles are such a trend…I thought it would be fun to take these styles…and be able to have matching tees for the whole family,” remarks Piva. Since creating the inaugural Long Live The Rad Kids design, Piva has expanded her offerings into collections for babies, toddlers, kids, adults and families. Bestselling items include the motorcycle tee as well as shirts with phrases like “Little Legends” or “Mama’s Little Dude.” “People love the sayings on the kids’ shirts,” mentions Piva. Through her brand, Piva has cultivated a unique community of rad families. For her, the most rewarding part is seeing the impact that her designs have on families’ lives and memories. “I get messages and photos all the time [sharing that] this is his favorite shirt, [that] they wear it all the time or [that] they pick it out when they get to choose their own clothes. Seeing how much the kids enjoy wearing the clothes has been super inspiring,” says Piva.

Apply Your Skills » Piva also owns a marketing agency called The Creative Standard. Her advice for those interested in starting their own business? “You have to find what you love, take those skills and be able to do that somewhere else,” says Piva. Upcoming Collections » Young + Rad has a slate of new designs coming out this year, including more female clothes. “[The clothes are] all unisex, but we do have a boy-heavy audience, so we want to create some cool, fun designs for the girls but ones that aren’t overthe-top girly,” explains Piva.

YOUNG + RAD CO. www.youngandrad.co @youngandrad.co

“I was shopping around and trying to find certain styles, [particularly] cool, effortless looks for the kids that weren’t your stereotypical dinosaurs and colorful stuff. I was having a hard time finding that, so I just decided that I was going to do it myself.” —SHAYNA PIVA

shoppe /// spotlight

Hold On to Your Hat FRIENDS DON’T LET FRIENDS BUY FAST-FASHION HATS

Written By: Kaylin Waizinger Photos By: Brook Power

FRIENDS OF FRIENDS HAT CO. 1931 S Coast Hwy Oceanside, CA 92054 www.friendsoffriendshat.co @friendsof_friends_

“WE PRESS OUR OWN HATS ON A 20TH CENTURY-STYLE INDUSTRIAL HAT PRESS, AND OUR MATERIALS RANGE FROM WOOL FELT TO TOQUILLA AND WOVEN AND SEWN PALM STRAW.” —BRETT SIMMONS 112 LOCALE MAGAZINE

New to the San Diego scene, Friends of Friends Hat Co. aims to inspire a soulful, slow-living lifestyle— one that resembles its Oceanside stomping grounds. “Handmade, natural and slow-batch” is how Co-Founder Brett Simmons describes their one-of-a-kind caps. And while their felts used to be produced just outside of Mexico City back in 2019, the team recently started making them in-house. “It’s been a lot of fun and a lot of learning,” says Simmons. “We press our own hats on

a 20th century-style industrial hat press, and our materials range from wool felt to toquilla and woven and sewn palm straw.” The Friends of Friends team takes pride in using natural, organic materials right down to the packaging and is also in partnership with 1% for the Planet. Whether you’re shopping their hand-woven Panama collection or thinking about buying their best-seller, The Lark, you can rest easy knowing you’re not only supporting a local business but a sustainable one, too.

Hats off to That

• “We’re on a mission to design and produce styles in an ethical fashion and give back to the environment and community as much as we can,” says Simmons.

A Force for Good

• This year, the brand’s 1% for the Planet donations supported the Changing Tides Foundation and Beach Ecology Coalition, and last year, they supported WILDCOAST and The Ecology Center.

shoppe /// get the deets

Set Your Phone to ‘Do Not Disturb’ and Pay a Visit to These Four Luxurious Los Angeles Spas Written By: Taylor Gorski

Spa Pendry at Pendry West Hollywood

The Spa at West Hollywood EDITION

Must-Try Treatment: Stay All Day Experience, Canyon Body Treatment • Can’t decide between just one treatment? The Stay All Day Experiences at The Spa at West Hollywood EDITION are made for you. The longest option is the Canyon, a 210-minute experience that offers a facial, massage and detox body treatment. Mindfulness, wellness and beauty from within are at the focus of this wellness destination.

The Spa at West Hollywood Edition

ywood Spa Pendry at Pendry West Holl

Must-Try Treatment: EcoLuxury Organic Facial • It’s only fitting that the Eco-Luxury Organic Facial (utilizing Ayuna products) takes place in the relaxing and refreshing Garden Suite. Using 100% natural and non-toxic products, guests can feel good about both the ingredients and results of this facial. www.fourseasons.com/ losangeles/spa

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www.pendry.com/westhollywood/wellness

Surya Spa at Santa Monica Proper Hotel

Must-Try Treatment: Radiant Energy/ Udvartana • With 3,000 square feet of pure bliss, Surya Spa at Santa Monica Proper Hotel is a collaboration with Martha Soffer (an Ayurvedic Panchakarma expert, doctor, chef and herbalist). Offering much more than just massages—think yoga, meditation, oil treatments and more—this is the ultimate wellness destination for nurturing the mind and body.

www.editionhotels.com/ weho/spa-and-fitness/ exclusive-luxury-spa

The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills

Must-Try Treatment: Pendry Exclusive IV • Spa Pendry has recently partnered with the Hydration Room, offering IVs and customized vitamin injections to help with everything from hangovers to jet lag. The Pendry Exclusive IV boosts energy, reduces stress and also provides immune support. But whichever spa treatment you decide on, Spa Pendry’s calm environment is sure to offer a mindful getaway.

The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills

Life Hack

• Feel like you never have time for selfcare? Start by booking a standing spa appointment—schedule it in your calendar so you have something to look forward to!

Surya Spa at San Monica Proper Hot ta el

Best Kind of Gift

• Looking to treat your best friend, a family member or your significant other? Give them a gift card to any of these spas for a thoughtful gift.

www.properhotel.com/santamonica/surya-spa/

Make It a Staycay

• Since all of these luxurious spas are located at LA hotels, make a staycay out of it! Book a room to fully recharge and relax, taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Photos - Spa Pendry at Pendry West Hollywood: Pendry West Hollywood | Surya Spa at Santa Monica Proper Hotel: Courtesy of Surya Spa | The Spa at West Hollywood Edition: Nikolas Koenig | The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills: Four Seasons Los Angeles

While prioritizing selfcare looks different for everyone, an afternoon spent at the spa is something everyone should consider. Between the quiet moments of serenity and the benefits each treatment provides, an appointment is an investment in your overall health and wellbeing. Los Angeles is home to a handful of luxurious spas, and this is your sign to book a treatment for yourself this spring. You deserve it.

Can’t See You Through the Cucumbers

PHOTO BY: Niki Cram • STYLED BY: Lauren Lewellen, Taylor Gorski & Kaylin Waizinger • Photoshoot Location: CLIFF DRIVE PARK 2804 Cliff Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92663 | CONSTELLATION BRANDS www.coronausa.com/pages/corona-seltzer-limonada

alive March 2022 /// sunshine. smiles. sharing.

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Freshly Squeezed Pack Your Picnic Basket—Spring Has Sprung!

Setting the Scene

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Total Gem

• Crystal Fantasy on Palm Canyon Dr. has the best selection of gemstones and one-of-a-kind gifts that you won’t find anywhere else. I bought a huge chunk of citrine from here to keep near my desk for an added boost of creative energy! www.crystalfantasy.com

DESERT

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“Every day I get to collaborate with unique, independent small businesses around the globe. It’s a dream come true!”

living like a local

Palm Springs

On-Brand

• More than anything, I love crafting one-of-a-kind brands for small businesses who want to bypass the “sea of same” for a unique, ownable look. A sense of timelessness balanced with unique details, including a stand-out color palette, is the key to being memorable. www.wearebranch.com

Mid Mod Frenzy

• The 330 homes in the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood are total midcentury eye candy. Architect William Krisel’s iconic butterfly-roof homes mix with the “Swiss Miss” A-frame homes by Charles Dubois. It’s also home to the famous “House of Tomorrow,” where Elvis and Priscilla Presley spent their 1967 honeymoon! www.vistalaspalmas.org

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Day by Design

3 PLACES IN THE DESERT THAT INSPIRE ME

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Veggin’ Out

PALM SPRINGS VINTAGE MARKET

• Chef Tanya’s Kitchen offers the best vegan food in the desert, hands down! I keep it simple and order the grilled cheese sandwich and Caesar salad. The Palm Springs location is constantly packed, so it’s worth the drive to visit the new Palm Desert location to avoid the crowds. www.cheftanyaskitchen.com

Life by Design • I carved out my dream career, and I get to run my business from my favorite place on the planet, Palm Springs, which I’m endlessly inspired by.

THE ANTIQUE GALLERIES OF PALM SPRINGS

Shauna Haider @nubbytwiglet We Are Branch www.wearebranch.com | @wearebranch

FAYE SARKOWSKY SCULPTURE GARDEN IN PALM DESERT

Photos By Shauna Haider: Madeline Northway | The Sands Hotel and Spa: Jamie Kowal | Illustrations - Vicente Martí Solar

T OF: Palm EN SHAUNA HAIDER Creative Director and Graphic Designer of We Are Branch AL LIV I N G: 3

Moroccan Escape

• The Sands Hotel and Spa in Indian Wells is the ultimate boutique hotel. The pink facade is packed with Moroccan-inspired design details that interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard incorporated. It's stylish and peaceful—truly the perfect hideaway! Plus, it's located next to The Nest, the best place in town to grab dinner and drinks and people-watch. Bonus: the walls are packed with portraits of celebrity visitors! sandshotelandspa.com www.gotothenest.com

“My role is all about connecting, building relationships and executing. I love bringing people and businesses together and driving partnerships in creative and innovative ways.”

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Meet You at the Tracks

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living like a local

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• I love eating local and supporting area entrepreneurs. I believe most of my money should be spent locally to help my town tribe. Trevor’s at the Tracks is my top pick, whether I’m dining with the wife, the whole family, a client or enjoying a night out with friends. www.trevorsatthetracks.com

Love What You Do

• I love the culture and people of Weedmaps. We don’t show up because we get paid; we show up because we want to make a difference and help fight the stigmas surrounding cannabis. www.weedmaps.com

A Team Effort

• Working closely with Kevin Durant, 35 Ventures and Rich Kleiman have proven to be some of the best partnerships. They are all at the top 1% of what they do, and it’s amazing to align and create with Weedmaps. www.weedmaps.com

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Making a Difference

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• I love that Weedmaps is paving the way in the cannabis industry by knocking down barriers and preconceived notions. THC and CBD have proven to be a valuable tool in helping people overcome countless issues, from pain to anxiety and many more. We are dedicated to educating and informing the public and enabling safe, legal access to consumers across the world.

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Map Out Your Week

3 FAVORITE THINGS ABOUT ORANGE COUNTY

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THE WEATHER

THE BEACHES

Weedmaps www.weedmaps.com | Photoshoot Location: San Juan Capistrano, CA

Dana Point Days

• The Sandbar at Dana Point Harbor (right by the Ocean Institute) provides a great place to pull up on your boat, kayak or SUP or just relax. The water is both deep enough for swimming and shallow enough to wade around with the kids or dog. www.visitdanapoint.com

HOW CLOSE THE LOCAL MOUNTAINS ARE— YOU CAN SURF AND SKI IN THE SAME DAY!

Photos - Andrew Hagstrom: John Glover | La Quinta Resort & Club: Mary Costa | Illustrations - Vicente Martí Solar

ANDREW HAGSTROM Head of Global Partnerships at Weedmaps

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Desert Vacay

• There’s no place like the desert, and La Quinta Resort & Club is the best. It’s amazing for kids or a romantic night away. The resort features acres of lush landscaping, stunning Spanish-style architecture, three onsite restaurants and 41 climate-controlled pools! www.laquintaresort.com

O K AT S U K A S H A R ES WH AT KE EP

Under the Palm Trees

• Even if you’re not staying at Ace Hotel Swim & Club in Palm Springs, it’s nice to hang out by the pool and dine at King’s Highway. They’ve got your classic salads and burgers, handmade pastas— and if you’re feeling baller, branzino! There’s also a lovely spa there too. I took my grandma here, and she told me she never wanted to leave Palm Springs after that. www.acehotel.com/palm-springs

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“I love that I get to make people laugh and that I get to make my own work hours.”

living like a local

Los Angeles

Supporting Local

• Chang’s Garden is a gem in Arcadia, where my grandma and mom live. The folks there are superfriendly, and the variety of foods they have range from Szechuan flavors to duck and delicious seafood. You just have to try it—they fed us through the pandemic! www.changsgarden2004.com

ATSUKO OKATSUKA Comedian

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Give a Gift

• A family business since 1946, Bunkado Gift Shop in Little Tokyo is a great place to go for Japanese trinkets, postcards and even maneki-nekos (I bought one here; it’s the cat statue that welcomes you at most Japanese restaurants). Local tip: the entire second floor is a sale section! www.bunkadoonline.com

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Laughing for a Living

• I love thinking about jokes and what makes things funny and turning them into bits. My fans inspire me. Sometimes, they’ll give me ideas after I’ve tried out a joke online or share their own experiences with the topic. I’m very vulnerable in my comedy, and for them to meet me where I’m at is so beautiful and moving. www.atsukookatsuka.com

Career Inspiration

In the Mind of a Comedian

All Smiles

3 THINGS THAT MAKE ME LAUGH

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When the Wayans brothers pretended to know the lyrics to “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton in the movie “White Chicks”

William Zabka’s earnest delivery when he says Chili’s, Marie Callender’s and Red Lobster are nice restaurants in “Cobra Kai”

Atsuko Okatsuka www.atsukookatsuka.com | @atsukocomedy

Tig Notaro doing anything

Photo By Kim Newmoney | Illustrations - Vicente Martí Solar

• Something people don’t know about my day-to-day life is that I talk to myself a lot…outside, to my plants; my plants always hear my jokes first! www.atsukookatsuka.com

• Margaret Cho was a huge inspiration for why I wanted to become a comedian. To find out you can make people laugh and show them different ways to look at the world as a job was mindblowing…and that I was good at it (?!) was a great combination of motivation to keep at it. www.margaretcho.com

alive /// 24 hours

Views We Love

• The FIFTH Rooftop is one of the few Orange County rooftop-dining experiences, and it happens to have a perfect view of the nightly fireworks from Disneyland. While we love a good fireworks show, the food and drinks here are also wow-worthy. The pork belly and gnocchi is mouthwatering, while the cocktails are fun, creative and beautifully presented. The FIFTH Rooftop www.thefifthoc.com

Hop to It

BREWERY X www.brewery-x.com

Stay Awhile

• We highly recommend booking a staycation at Radisson Blu Anaheim to fully enjoy all this new hotel has to offer, but you can get your first taste while dining at BluSky Restaurant and Bar. Situated on the 12th floor, revel in gorgeous views of the city, including the happiest place on earth across the highway.

Radisson Blu Anaheim + BluSky www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/en-us/hotels/ radisson-blu-anaheim

Views, Brews & Pucks

Shipwrecked

Explore All That Anaheim Has to Offer at These 6 Hot Spots

• Since its inception, Strong Water quickly developed a cult-like following, helping to carry it through the pandemic. The ship-themed bar has prided itself on its specialty cocktails and unique merchandise. Their outdoor patio, Shoreside, is open to host the kiddos and pups because the indoor seating is only available to the 21-and-over crowd.

Written By: Reyes Baca

Poolside Sips

• Head to Modern Times Leisuretown for beer, cider, house-roasted coffees and a curated assortment of wines. If you’re visiting during the spring or summer, make sure to book a reservation for the poolside cabanas in advance (at no extra cost)!

On the Ice

• Have you ever seen a hat trick? For those who have yet to experience this and other fun hockey phenomena, attending an Anaheim Ducks game is a must! Even those who aren’t hockey fans will enjoy the high energy that envelops the crowd during a game.

STRONG WATER www.strongwateranaheim.com

HONDA CENTER www.nhl.com/ducks

URBANA

Packs a Punch

Garden Grazing

• At the end of the walkway outside the Packing House, you’ll find Poppy & Seed, a greenhouse-inspired, open-air restaurant. You may recognize the name from Chef Michael and Kwini Reed, husband-wife/chef-entrepreneur duo, who have sister restaurant Poppy + Rose in Los Angeles. 124 LOCALE MAGAZINE

• Whether it’s your first or hundredth visit to the Packing District, it feels like there’s always something new to try at the food hall. We’re especially fond of Hammer Workshop & Bar, where the bartenders continually pour up the most amazing craft cocktails. This centralized bar prides itself on its savvy staff and their made-from-scratch preparation for all cocktail ingredients. ANAHEIM PACKING DISTRICT www.anaheimpackingdistrict.com

Photos - Brewery X | Radisson Blu Hotel & BluSky Restaurant & Bar: VRX Studios | Strong Water: Sarah King Photography | Anaheim Packing District | Honda Center: Robert Mora

• You’ll be able to spot Brewery X as you come down La Palma by the bustling parking lot and giant X. Its huge indoor/ outdoor brew hall has plenty of seating and lawn games to play as you watch your favorite sports teams with pals. The venue is both kid- and dog-friendly, boasting a small playground area and open space for pups. Live music, DJs and multiple food trucks make this feel like a real backyard party.

Digging In

• The menu at BluSky Restaurant and Bar, by Chef Edgar Beas, is Spanish-inspired with signature dishes like the Lomo Bajo (a 14-ounce Spanish galician beef striploin), the Pulpo a la Plancha (charred octopus, pimentón and romesco with potato cream) and the Tarta de Queso (a burnt Basque cheesecake).

9 a.m. Wake and Bake

alive /// 24 hours

Livin’ La Vida Lido YOUR GUIDE TO A DAY OF LUXURY LIVING AT NEWPORT BEACH’S LIDO MARINA VILLAGE Written By: Jane Adler and Charlotte Farrell

Lido Marina Village has shoppers and hungry patrons taking advantage of the marine-inspired mélange of food, fashion and fun at this bayside destination. We love that this Newport Beach development is accessible by sea, so you can dock and dine by day and show off your nautical finesse at night— it’s just what the ‘doc’ ordered. Plus, the Secret Alley is just another one of Lido Marina Village’s awe-inspiring attributes. We’ve put together an itinerary of how to spend a a full day exploring this charming enclave of Newport Beach.

Newport Beach

• Kickstart your day on a sweet note with a trip to Rye Goods. This organic sourdough bakery and deli specializes in using natural, organic and seasonal ingredients. Order one of their delectable pastries like the dijon pretzel croissant, sticky bun or vegan tahini oat cookie! RYE GOODS www.ryegoods.com

9:30 a.m. Dreamy Designs

• Serena & Lily is the perfect destination for design inspo that will make all of your rattan daydreams come true. Here, you can grab all the chevron pillows and striped umbrellas to match your Pinterest board. SERENA & LILY www.serenaandlily.com

VISION ELECTRIC BOAT RENTAL

SeaVees

• Situated on the corner of Via Lido and Via Oporto in a reclaimed 1940’s cottage, SeaVees is the epitome of a coastal-cool California brand. Selling classic men’s, women’s and kid’s sneakers, along with casual apparel and home goods, SeaVees is a onestop shop! SeaVees www.seavees.com

Noon From the Farm

• Sit down to lunch at Malibu Farm, which offers organic, farm-fresh dishes that celebrate all things land and sea—and their lavender paloma cocktail is the perfect blend of detox and retox. MALIBU FARM www.malibu-farm.com/ newport-beach 126 LOCALE MAGAZINE

3 p.m. Snip, Snip, Hooray

2 p.m. Hey, Sugar

LIDO MARINA VILLAGE 3434 Via Lido Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.675.8662 www.lidomarinavillage.com

• The cozy fireplace at TReSs Apothecary + Salon is the perfect place to unwind before, during or after you get beautified by the bay. Get your hair cut or colored by one of their expert stylists, and leave feeling (and looking) like a million bucks.

• For some seriously cute stationery finds, stop by Sugar Paper. Their delicate display of everyday essentials includes everything from agendas to invitations and “thank you” notes. After one peek in here, you won’t want to shop anywhere else!

LIDO BOTTLE WORKS

TReSs Apothecary + Salon www.tressapothecaryandsalon.com

SUGAR PAPER www.sugarpaper.com

2:30 p.m. Perfect Petals

4 p.m. Oh Captain, My Captain

• Next stop? French Buckets! Pick up a bouquet of beautiful blooms between noon-5 p.m. at the corner of the Secret Alley and Via Oporto. Get a little crazy and make someone’s daisy!

• Experience the luxury of a harbor cruise with Vision Electric Boat Rental. Their colorful electric vessels are easy to drive and equipped with spacious interiors that allow you to travel in effortless style.

FRENCH BUCKETS www.frenchbuckets.com

MALIBU FARM

VISION ELECTRIC BOAT RENTAL www.eboatsrental.com

6 p.m. Bottles and Bites

• Head to Lido Bottle Works for a sunset dinner on the bay! This harborside restaurant offers a decadent selection of unique bites, craft cocktails and

wine that is sure to put you in your happy place. Indulge in dishes like ceviche, hummus and curried beef meatballs!

LIDO BOTTLE WORKS www.lidobottleworks.com

Photos - SeaVees & Lido Bottle Works: Renee Bones, NEWMARK | Vision Electric Boat Rental: Kambria Fischer | Malibu Farm: Lee Walters

10:30 a.m. Sneak Attack

alive /// profile

Heavy Meta How Avenged Sevenfold’s NFTs Are Striking a Chord in the Metaverse

Written By: Jordan Nishkian Photos By: Travis McCoy, Kam Pollock & Rafa Alcantara

When it first formed in 1999, it was impossible for heavy metal band Avenged Sevenfold to foresee the impact they’d create in the music world. From their seven albums and frequent tours, the band has amassed an army of die-hard fans. Now, Avenged Sevenfold is leaving its mark on the industry once again, and this time, it’s digital.

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“I THINK THIS TECHNOLOGY IS POWERFUL ENOUGH THAT IT’S GOING TO DISRUPT EVERYTHING.” —M. SHADOWS

AVENGED SEVENFOLD avengedsevenfold.io @avengedsevenfold LOCALE MAGAZINE 129

alive /// profile

“THESE ARE ALL THINGS THAT ARE A COUPLE YEARS DOWN THE LINE, BUT THESE TOKENS ARE THE BEGINNING OF THAT… THE ENDGAME IS MUCH BIGGER.” —M. SHADOWS

Last December, the band launched Deathbats, their second collection of 10,000 nonfungible tokens (NFTs), which grants token holders access to an exclusive Deathbats Club. “I’ve been in crypto since 2015,” explains Avenged Sevenfold’s lead vocalist and songwriter M. Shadows. But he didn’t find his rhythm until he came across CryptoPunks, a collection of 8-bit art depicting punky portraits that launched on the Ethereum blockchain in 2017. According to Shadows, that’s when he realized the value of NFTs. 130 LOCALE MAGAZINE

“CryptoPunks has a special place in my heart because I grew up in the pixelated era, so I get the art…but it’s about what CryptoPunk means,” he shares. As he continued on his crypto journey, he discovered the potential of even more possibilities and saw how creative the uses could be. That’s when the idea hit him: “What if Avenged had tokens?” Avenged Sevenfold’s Deathbat NFTs are the first to combine a musical act with the power of blockchain technology, making the band pioneers of rewarding fandom with benefits in crypto and the metaverse. Each of the 10,000 Bats is uniquely generated and can be owned, traded, bought or sold. Once the 10,000 Bats have been minted, the only way into the Deathbats Club is to buy a Bat from another owner. This ensures the building of a close-knit community of fans who all truly want to be a part of the club and opens up the possibility of these NFTs growing in value. In case you’re not fully up-to-date on crypto or tokens, NFTs are digital collectibles that live on the blockchain, a system of storing information in a way that makes it nearly impossible to alter or hack the system. So while a Deathbat NFT may look like just a regular JPG, in reality, it’s full of unique information that can track and verify ownership. By offering the Deathbats Club through NFTs, Avenged Sevenfold will be

able to see this data, which will come in handy when it’s time to hand out perks. “Right now, to onboard people, we’ve put out some real-world incentives. Part of it is the community, perks on Discord, monthly giveaways, getting into our poker nights or movie nights. Part of it is the promise and the speculation that we are going to move forward into the metaverse and allow them private parties in the metaverse. We’ll be dropping their avatars in the metaverse where only they can get skins, clothing and weapons for games that we’ll build in the metaverse,” Shadows says. Some of the physical incentives of joining the Deathbats Club include discounted or exclusive merch, skipping the lines at Avenged Sevenfold shows and physical giveaways like vinyl and guitars, but the band is also offering digital perks like NFT ticket stubs, airdrops (NFT giveaways) and access to the token-holder section of their website and private Discord channels. Token holders may also find some rare perks like meet-and-greet opportunities and free Avenged Sevenfold tickets for life. But Shadows discourages fans from buying into the club for “the crazy perks” and hopes that people join in so they can reap the rewards of future opportunities. “Eventually, we want to get into a decentralized platform for streaming and

UP AND COMING Aside from the future of the Deathbats Club, Avenged Sevenfold fans can also look forward to a new album slated for sometime in mid- to late-2022. TESTING THE ETHER In May 2021, Avenged Sevenfold tested the NFT waters by releasing 101 “Into the Ether” NFTs featuring artwork by Cam Rackam. These NFTs were distributed through OpenSea and featured previously unreleased music. NFTATS Don’t be surprised if you see a Deathbat tattoo! These JPGs may be digital, but plenty of fans have already brought them off-screen and on their skin.

then incentivize token holders by fractionalizing royalties to them,” Shadows continues. “So instead of paying…Spotify, Apple Music or Warner Bros. 80% of our income, it would come back to us and we would be able to reward holders with these tokens. And these are all things that are a couple years down the line, but these tokens are the beginning of that… The endgame is much bigger.” Part of this endgame is causing ripples in how the music industry currently exists. This move by Avenged Sevenfold is undoubtedly sparking change as they pioneer this idea throughout the music and entertainment industries. Deathbat NFTs are the first to create an opportunity of ownership for the band’s fans—now imagine what this could mean as it catches on. “I think this technology is powerful enough that it’s going to disrupt everything. And I think it’ll come from the outside,” Shadows says. “The music industry’s going to change because right now, musicians have egregious royalty statements.” From production to promotion, a lot of money goes to parts of the infrastructure rather than the artists, but Shadows explains that through crypto, there are opportunities to cut out some of the middlemen so the artist can pocket more of their royalties (and receive it faster than ever too). “The artist can take some of that money and fractionalize it to the hardcore token holders— and I think that’s going to be less than a year or two away,” he predicts. There are some generalized issues that will need to be ironed out in the crypto space, and he’s sure that there will be a battle between the new and old ways of doing things in the industry, but overall, Shadows is optimistic about these changes, saying that “eventually, we’ll see a much better, more open-sourced world.” Aside from creating exciting new opportunities in the crypto and metaverse space, a huge draw to joining the Deathbats Club is the club itself. It’s no secret that community is a core value of the band, and they’re eager to find ways to make Deathbat NFTs about connection and experiences. “It’s all about the journey, not the destination… And the journey is being in the Discord all day with people you relate to,” Shadows explains. “[Our fans have] a community. They’re ideating on their own bands and their own songs and their own merchandise companies that they’re making… and at the end of the day they’re always looking for that destination, but the destination never comes, right? It’s always going to be the journey and the community.” While the band has big plans for the future of this community, they still want to nurture its current roots. “Owning a Bat instantly puts you in a club of like-minded people that you can talk to and ideate with,” he says. “That’s really important to us because that’s one of the essential pieces of life, you know? Find communities and find your people. That’s what we’re trying to build.”

“OWNING A BAT INSTANTLY PUTS YOU IN A CLUB OF LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE THAT YOU CAN TALK TO AND IDEATE WITH.” —M. SHADOWS

While not every fan is stoked on or in favor of these NFTs, the reactions have mostly been positive. Not only is Avenged Sevenfold creating an exclusive club that holds real value and eventual ownership, but the band is also the first to do it. “There is a value—just because you can’t touch it, doesn’t mean there isn’t value,” Shadows says. “There is intrinsic value. It’s technology that we need. It’s technology that makes everything better.” LOCALE MAGAZINE 131

alive /// 5 pro tips

“You can be beautiful and graceful, but you can also be strong and powerful.” —DANI ELLE SPEEGLE

DANI ELLE SPEEGLE

“If you don’t have a good mindset or the motivation to do anything, then it’s not going to happen…” —DANI ELLE SPEEGLE 1

DON’T STARVE YOURSELF; EAT GOOD FOOD! • “There’s still an underlying stigma with food. I think that to have a healthy relationship with yourself and your body, you have to have a healthy relationship with food—and it’s not just about diet choices. It’s about being comfortable just eating.”

Positive Influence

GET IN A GOOD MINDSET • “If you don’t have a good mindset or the motivation to do anything, then it’s not going to happen… so I’d say above all, mental health and wellness is the first step to getting any kind of physical goal accomplished.”

WORK OUT • “I love companies that aren’t afraid to come in and disrupt a category, and that’s exactly what Tru Grit did. We’re going to make a lot of noise.”

DANI ELLE SPEEGLE SHARES HOW TO BECOME YOUR BEST SELF

Written By: Jordan Nishkian Photos By: Aaron Brimhall

She may have amassed over 800,000 followers on Instagram, but Dani Elle Speegle is so much more than a fitness influencer. Not only is she a three-time CrossFit Games athlete and a winner of NBC’s “The Titan Games,” but Speegle is also an advocate for body and food positivity, serving as inspiration for women who want to feel as powerful as they are beautiful. As she’s proved through countless challenges and achievements, she can do anything she puts her mind to, and she believes that you can too.

EMPOWER GIRLS

BREAK BOUNDARIES AND STEREOTYPES • “You can be beautiful and graceful, but you can also be strong and powerful. You can be an athlete, but you can also be an intellectual. Be true to what you want. It can be anything in life… You just have to be true to yourself.”

• “We have to be able to hype women up in any way that we can because there are still so many things that we have to fight for. For the longest time, and even now, women just get torn down in every sense. So until things like basic human rights and decency become a norm for women, it has to come from us supporting each other.”

READ THE EXTENDED STORY ON LOCALEMAGAZINE.COM

“We have to be able to hype women up in any way that we can because there are still so many things that we have to fight for.”

STOP CARING ABOUT WHAT OTHERS THINK • It can be really hard to stop caring about what others think, but Speegle insists that it’s a goal worth having, especially if it’s getting in the way of you living your happiest, most authentic life.

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HAVE A HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP WITH SOCIAL MEDIA • All of us know the dark side of social media—from the doom-scrolling and not-so-nice comments to the constant comparison of your reality to someone else’s highlight reel—but Speegle has a tip for reframing your relationship with social media, especially if you’re working on building a brand. “My biggest advice is don’t build something you think other people will like—you have to go on and be authentic and be happy with what you produce,” she says.

DANI ELLE SPEEGLE @dellespeegle TRU GRIT FITNESS @trugritfitness

Product Photography Provided By Tru Grit Fitness

—DANI ELLE SPEEGLE

alive /// setting the scene

Freshly Squeezed

Picnic Basket $149

THE BEACH PEOPLE www.thebeachpeople.co

2 Fresh Flowers

Pack Your Picnic Basket—Spring Has Sprung! Written By: Taylor Gorski Photographed By: Niki Cram Styled By: Lauren Lewellen, Taylor Gorski & Kaylin Waizinger

3 Seagrass Picnic Tumbler $18

JENNI KAYNE www.jennikayne.com

#cheers

5 Large Blanket

4 Corona Hard Seltzer Limonada Starts at $15 CONSTELLATION BRANDS www.coronausa.com/ pages/corona-seltzerlimonada

Ah, springtime! After a long, hard, California winter (with temps ranging around 65 degrees, of course) the birds are finally chirping, the flowers are blooming and the sun is shining. It’s time to dig out that cute blanket, throw on a straw hat and plan a chill picnic with your pals!

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Photoshoot Location: CLIFF DRIVE PARK 2804 Cliff Dr Newport Beach, CA 92663

escape Joshua Tree

March 2022 /// great outdoors. wild west.

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Get the Deets

PHOTO BY: Matt Kisiday • AUTOCAMP JOSHUA TREE 62209 Verbena Rd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252 | 844.366.9715 | www.autocamp.com/joshua-tree

Happy Camper Sleep in a Modern Airstream in the High Desert at the AllNew AutoCamp Joshua Tree

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“I love making connections with people from all over the world and having the opportunity to make an impact in the surrounding community.”

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• We have an amazing Asian Pacific Islander community here in San Diego, and with that comes an immense number of food outlets. A few of my favorite spots to dine are Ban Loa in El Cajon, Yakitori Hino and Woomiok in Convoy, Taka Sushi in the Gaslamp Quarter and Taste of Hunan in Mira Mesa. I am also extremely excited for the opening of Kingfisher to taste their modern interpretation of Vietnamese food. www.banlaocuisine.com www.woomiok.com www.takasushi.com www.tasteofhunan.com www.kingfishersd.com

Waterfront Retreat

• When I’m not staycationing at Ocean Park Inn, I enjoy driving up to Palos Verdes to enjoy some R&R at Terranea Resort. The property features stunning ocean views, multiple restaurants, a spa and a golf course. There are also a ton of unique on-site experiences, such as archery, a falconry experience and a Kids Club Discovery Garden for the little ones. www.terranea.com

Juggling It All

• Most people don’t know that I’m a part of four different businesses in four different sectors and that I’m active on multiple community boards. Outside of my professional life, my wife Nan and I recently welcomed kid number two into our family!

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PB Is Buzzin’

The Inn-side Scoop

3 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT PACIFIC BEACH

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THE STRONG SENSE OF COMMUNITY

• Pacific Beach truly is a close-knit community, and I believe that resonates with people when they come to visit. The vibrancy and life of the community, along with all of the unique activities and experiences that are available here, make it a must-visit SoCal destination.

THE VARIETY OF FUN ACTIVITIES TO DO OUTDOORS

The Grass Is Always Greener

• My favorite hidden gem in San Diego is Kate Sessions Park in Pacific Beach. The grassy lawn is perfect for the family, and it offers killer views of the ocean, Mission Bay and downtown. You have to check out Concerts on the Green too! Pro tip: pack your favorite snacks and go at sunset for a beautiful view. www.pbtowncouncil.org/concertson-the-green

THE FOOD; THERE ARE SO MANY GREAT RESTAURANTS ON AND OFF THE BEATEN PATH!

Ocean Park Inn 710 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109 | 858.483.5858 | www.oceanparkinn.com

Photos - Elvin Lai: Kambria Fischer | Ocean Park Inn: Haley Hill Images | Illustrations - Vicente Martí Solar

LO C A L

ELVIN LAI President and CEO of Ocean Park Inn

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ego Di

Feels Like Family

• My favorite part about working for Ocean Park Inn is the aspect of family. The hotel itself has been in my family for generations, and I love seeing other families come with their children to stay with us year after year. Located just steps from the beach, it’s a special place to make lifelong memories. www.oceanparkinn.com

“I am very passionate about sharing the stories of the hotel and community. For example, the story of the 72 mission olive trees and the creation of our own private label olive oil, Reverence, is one of my favorites. Guests enjoy hearing about the historical significance of the olives and the mission.”

E-P E R F E C T D AY I N S AN

Sip and Stay

N PE

UR ICT

living like a local

AN San Juan Capistrano

• Ysidora Restaurant and Lounge is modeled after Ysidora (and her husband Don Juan) but filtered through the lens of the charismatic woman she would’ve become today. The lavish bar, lounge restaurant and outdoor seating in the adjacent Landmark Courtyard create a great vibe for live entertainment and a perfect meal. The extensive cocktail list is also a highlight—the Lavender Froze with floral herbs and the San Juan gin and tonic are some of my favorites! www.ysidora.com

Back in Time

• With our resort adjacent to the Mission San Juan Capistrano and its historical significance, there are so many compelling storylines that play into the local market. Visiting the mission is a great place to take in history and gain perspective, particularly in these times of uncertainty. www.missionsjc.com

Dining Trackside

• Trevors at the Tracks in San Juan Capistrano is a great location for a good meal. As the name suggests, it’s located right next to the train tracks! It has a ton of history, great cocktails and live music seven days a week. www.trevorsatthetracks.com

Leading the Community

RES

T OF: Long

ach Be

• I love the idea of creating a brand concept within the Autograph Collection and making it come alive for our guests and staff. We are stewards of the community, and I’m grateful to embrace the historical nature and share the narrative with our guests. The hotel is very unique to the market and offers guests elevated experiences.

IVI N G:

Woman on a Mission

3 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

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IT’S INCREDIBLY WALKABLE

IT’S EASILY ACCESSIBLE FROM THE 5 FREEWAY

Relax and Reset

• Set within our resort, Spa at the Mission is an intimate wellness destination that offers the best massages and facials I have ever had! Enjoy the spa deck overlooking the ruins of the Great Stone Church where you can also catch a magical sunset. Inquire about the CBD oil for an elevated spa experience. www.spaatthemission.com

IT’S HALFWAY BETWEEN LA AND SD (WITH AMTRAK ACCESS!)

Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection 31692 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 | 949.503.5700 | www.innatthemissionsjc.com

Photos By Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano | Illustrations - Vicente Martí Solar

Live and Learn

ar s

LOC

PAM RYAN General Manager at Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano LL

• I love being a positive role model and steward for the storytellers who work at Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano. I embrace a sense of community and offer the team an opportunity to learn and grow, all while taking care of our guests and offering them an experience unlike any other. www.innatthemissionsjc.com

escape /// get the deets

Into the Wyld W Y LD ER HO P E VAL L E Y OF F E RS A C H A NCE TO DI S CO N N EC T WH ILE IMME RS ING YOU RS E L F IN NATURE

Written By: Taylor Gorski • Photos By: Ren Fuller

Tucked in the Sierra Nevada mountains just south of Lake Tahoe lives Wylder Hope Valley. Featuring the coziest cabins, custom-built yurts, a reimagined Airstream and camping spots, this recently renovated off-the-grid destination immerses you in nature for an ideal weekend away. With little to no cell service, no Wi-Fi and no TVs, you’ll be fully present to enjoy every moment and the surrounding scenery. This all-season mountain escape has plenty of activities, whether there’s a fresh layer of snow on the ground or the sun is shining in the middle of summer.

With little to no cell service, no Wi-Fi and no TVs, you’ll be fully present to enjoy every moment and the surrounding scenery.

Cozy Accommodations Whether you’re in need of a couple’s getaway, a family vacation or something in between, there’s accommodations that will suit your needs. Cabins and cottages sleep up to four people, while the Hope Valley House can lodge nine people. Wake up surrounded by trees each morning, and walk down to get a

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complimentary coffee or tea to begin each day. Maybe you’ll want to take a brisk hike on the property or sit by the outdoor fire pit in peace. If you are traveling with little ones, be sure to have them check out the on-site mini pond filled with fish. And at night, don’t forget to look up, as the view of the stars is immaculate.

Hope Valley

Endless Activities

Eating Good

• Take your pick from snowshoeing, downhill skiing, hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking and paddleboarding. Something that is not to be missed is a private, complimentary wood-fired sauna experience on the property. Recently restored and located in a quaint cabin, the sauna gets up to 200 degrees and is paired with an ice-cold shower (with water straight from the well!). Alternate between the shower and sauna a few times within your session to fully rejuvenate.

• As far as dining goes, The General Store & Cafe is a one-stop shop where you can purchase a slice of fresh pie, a bottle of wine, a pack of cards and some cozy Wylder Hope Valley merch. Sorensen’s Cafe, the on-site restaurant, has been around for generations, serving wholesome and comforting breakfast, lunch and dinner options. There’s often live music out on the wooden deck and other special happenings during holidays.

Explore the Local Area • If you’re venturing away from the resort, drive about 20 minutes to South Lake Tahoe or head down to the charming town of Markleeville. Grab a beer at Cutthroat Brewing Company before having a decadent dinner at Stonefly. Between beautiful drives, eateries and activities, there is plenty to explore.

Gone Explorin’

• While the drive from Southern California takes around eight hours (and around three from the San Francisco area), it’s well worth the trek. Extend your trip by staying one night in Mammoth before heading north to Hope Valley; from Mammoth, it’s about a two-hour drive to your final destination.

WYLDER HOPE VALLEY 14255 CA Hwy 88 Hope Valley, CA 96120 530.694.2203 www.wylderhotels.com/ hope-valley

10 a.m. Sip, Sip, Hooray!

escape /// 24 hours

To the Point

Point Loma

SMALL SHOPS, GOOD EATS AND GOLDEN SUNSETS—WELCOME TO POINT LOMA

• Gear up for a day of shopping and sunshine with a cup of joe from Local Krave. San Diego’s most famous spot for buttered coffee, their liege waffles and breakfast sandwiches are also to die for. This is a must-stop to get your morning pick-me-up before you tackle the day ahead. LOCAL KRAVE www.localkrave.com

Written By: Alyssa Burlingame

Whether you’re searching for a staycation with pals or a parents-only getaway, Point Loma is the place to visit. From the sunny climate to the charming local flair, you won’t be disappointed when you spend 24 hours in this gorgeous beach town. Grab a coffee, shop your heart out, eat the yummiest local food and hit a family-owned restaurant for dinner. Bonus: it’s only a 19-minute drive from downtown San Diego, so you’ll have easy access to more than just the coast. Here’s how we like to spend 24 hours in Point Loma.

Turning the Page • Pick up a new read at Point Loma’s La Playa Books! This charming shop carries everything from used and rare books to new reads. laplayabooks.com

WHITE RICE

Noon Shop Small

• San Diego runs on small businesses and sea breezes! Sea Hive Station is a hodgepodge of independent vendors who come together and sell their goods. From clothes and jewelry to vinyls and plants, this vintage and artisan market is the perfect place to grab all your souvenirs. SEA HIVE STATION www.seahivestation.com

2 p.m. Eatin’ Good in the Neighborhood

• Tummy starting to rumble? Cure your midday cravings at White Rice! Located in Liberty Public Market, this all-new Asian restaurant offers a taste of traditional Filipino 144 LOCALE MAGAZINE

cuisine. Watch the chefs work their magic in the openconcept kitchen, and enjoy more local shopping after your meal!

SEA HIVE STATION

Sail Away • Get a glimpse of history at the USS Midway Museum! This historic naval aircraft carrier museum houses over 60 exhibits for you to check out. www.midway.org THE MONSARAZ SAN DIEGO

WHITE RICE www.ricebowlsforall.com

6 p.m. Holy Cannoli

5 p.m. Chasing Sunsets

• One of the amazing things about Point Loma is the melting pot of cultural diversity. Indulge in Italian goodness with an authentic meal at Cesarina! Not only does chef and owner Cesarina Mezzoni make pasta from scratch, but she also whips up a smattering of traditional Italian desserts! We’re drooling just thinking about them…

• San Diego isn’t just known for the beaches, tacos, and warm weather—it’s also known for its gorgeous sunsets and sandy cliffs. Combine the two, and you’ve got Sunset Cliffs! To round out your day (and prepare for dinner), soak up the beautiful golden hour rays on the cliffs of Point Loma. SUNSET CLIFFS www.sandiego.gov

SUNSET CLIFFS

CESARINA cesarinarestaurant.com

9 p.m. Catch Some Zzz’s

• It doesn’t get much better than waking up to a beach view. Staying at The Monsaraz San Diego means craft coffee, stylish accommodations and sleep so sweet

you’ll have to pinch yourself to wake up. But we promise, this isn’t a dream. Get your shuteye at this all-new, luxurious stay.

THE MONSARAZ SAN DIEGO www.themonsaraz.com

Photos - Sea Hive Station: Stacy Keck | White Rice: Shannon Patrick | Sunset Cliffs: Gabi Nehring | Cesarina: Arlene Ibarra @swellscreative | The Monsaraz San Diego: Robert Miller

Get Buzzed • No, not that kind of buzzed. We’re talking about an afternoon caffeine jolt at Better Buzz Coffee! Their signature drink is called the “Best Drink Ever,” but we’ll let you be the judge of that. betterbuzzcoffee.com

Photos - Alisal Guest Ranch, Victoria Pearson, Nicki Sebastian & Sara Range

ESCAPE FEATURE

These Boots Are Made For Ridin’ THIS DUDE RANCH IN THE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY WILL MAKE YOU SAY YAHOO!

Written By: Erik Hale

ALISAL GUEST RANCH & RESORT 1054 Alisal Rd, Solvang, CA 93463 800.425.4725 | www.alisal.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 147

escape /// feature

The world is simply spinning faster now. Minutes, hours, days and years magically disappear into “circling back” emails, Instagram “like” notifications and Netflix series we absorb in eight-hour marathons. We are a consumer society by design, and our appetite has turned towards absorbing time in behemoth-sized bites. Even the two-week vacation has become something you need a vacation from, dealing with canceled flights, packing and unpacking and the overflowing inbox when you return. We needed a bite-sized getaway that packed a fullsize, energy-restoring punch of nature, animals and quietness. At Alisal Ranch in the Santa Ynez Valley, you can experience just that. Set your email to OOO, your DVR to record and escape a few hours up the coast to a place that will take you back a hundred years or so, where you can “like” riding a horse without having to post it anywhere. We recently spent 48 hours at this 10,000-acre dude ranch, waking to roosters instead of iPhone alarms and riding horses instead of writing emails. We left very much recharged while mentally planning our next trip. This is how we spent our time detached from the wires and waves of modern society.

Day 1 4 p.m.

• The drive to Alisal Ranch was the perfect way to start detoxing. We left at noon and drove up the coast past Santa Barbara before turning on a small country road. We saw wild turkeys and deer along the beautiful winding drive. We arrived at the property and parked our car next to a field where horses were feeding. We were smiling already. We checked in and used a giant metal wagon to roll our luggage across a bridge under magnificent trees to our room. They offer rooms (and homes) of many different sizes, from studios that sleep two to the Jackson House that sleeps 12. We were in a select suite with two chairs out front, a fireplace, a living area and an upstairs bedroom. The room did not have a television or phone (you can text with the front desk), which was perfect for our mission of unplugging.

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escape /// feature

Room (no jacket required for breakfast), which offers your choice of a buffet or a la carte dish. We chose to sit on the outside patio for a change of scenery; we listened to birds and looked for squirrels in the trees as we enjoyed our cappuccinos. But for those in search of a little morning adventure, they also offer a trail ride to a pancake breakfast on the ranch.

Noon

• There are so many activities to choose from at Alisal Ranch, but what we were most interested in was the guided horseback riding. We chose the intermediate level (I think it would suit most anyone) and enjoyed a meandering two-hour trip across the ranch, around a lake and back to the stables.

1:30 p.m.

• Even though we had enjoyed a large breakfast just a few hours earlier, we were famished. We ate french fries, salads and an enormous

8 p.m. 6 p.m.

• We made reservations for dinner at The Ranch Room, which since 1946 has required a jacket and collared shirt for gentlemen (which they can also lend). We were seated next to a spectacular roaring fireplace in a grand hall with chandeliers and stunning carpets out of a ‘50s Western. The chef served hearty portions—perfectly sized for a dude ranch meal. Note: In the summers, they offer an outdoor California Cookout with barbecued favorites, including savory meats, seafood, delicious roasted veggie dishes and decadent desserts. 150 LOCALE MAGAZINE

• After dinner, we made our way to The Oak Room. This room also has a magnificent fireplace, live music every evening starting at 6:30 p.m. and great cocktails.

Day 2 8 a.m.

• We woke up early (for a vacation) and took a nice long nature walk before breakfast. Breakfast was served back in The Ranch

sandwich and drank some wine (some might be an underestimate) next to the pool at the Chuckwagon Grill and Waggin’ Tongue Bar. Completely full and a little inebriated, it was time for a nap.

5 p.m.

• Our muscles were still aching (mostly the ones you sit on) after our trail ride, so we visited the on-site spa to work out the tension. Our 90-minute Swedish massage, called “The Alisal,” took out the knots that the wine did not. Note: On the last Sunday of each month, they offer a “Stretch & Sip” class—an outdoor yoga experience under

the shade of a giant oak tree on “golf row,” which is followed by a flight of seasonal, local and organic freshpressed juices.

Day 3 8 a.m.

• I highly doubt that cowboys play much golf—but we do! And although it usually isn’t relaxing with my score, it is something we love to do on vacation. There are two local courses to choose from: Alisal Creek and Alisal River. We played the river course and left the property with the course record intact.

Noon

• We had already packed our bags but signed up for one last activity— something we had never tried before. We loaded onto a truck bed, sat on hay bales and were driven to the lake for an archery and air rifle combo course. Breaking bottles and shooting at hay bales was the perfect way to end our trip back in time.

escape /// get the deets

Happy Camper S L E EP I N A M O D E RN AIRS T RE AM IN T H E H IGH DE SE RT AT THE A L L-NE W AU TO C A M P J O S H UA T R EE

Written By: Taylor Gorski • Photos By: Josh Franer & Matt Kisiday

New to the Joshua Tree neighborhood, AutoCamp offers modern Airstream accommodations in the beautiful high desert. “We’ve been looking forward to

Joshua Tree

AutoCamp Joshua Tree for quite some time,” says Founder Neil Dipaola. “As Joshua Tree visitors know, it’s a magical destination, and being able to experience the desert landscape with AutoCamp allows our guests to experience an incredibly strong connection to Joshua Tree’s spirit.”

Whether you’re traveling with the whole family, your significant other or flying solo, you’re sure to have the perfect Joshua Tree experience here.

All the Amenities • After you’ve explored Joshua Tree National Park (just a nineminute drive away), come back and hop in the seasonal plunge pool. Or maybe your adventure isn’t over yet and you want to explore more by riding around on a complimentary bike. Weekly activities for the AutoCamp community include live music, yoga classes, wine tastings, fireside chats and s’mores bars. As far as food, locally crafted bites (including BBQ kits) are available, and there is a general store that stocks beer, wine and provisions.

Hanging at the Clubhouse • While you don’t need to venture far from your Airstream, you will want to check out the onsite Clubhouse, which is a focal point for AutoCamp locations (like Yosemite and Cape Cod). Surrounded by original art from local artists, the lounge area includes a warm fireplace and board games for a place to unwind. Less apparent to the eye, translucent solar panels and misters are also crucial.

WFH • If needed, complimentary Wi-Fi is available. While it’s always lovely to unplug and go OOO, change up your workspace to the beautiful area of Joshua Tree. Cup of Joe • Wake up and grab a complimentary cup of coffee or tea to start your morning. A Part of the Community • AutoCamp Joshua Tree has partnered with the Mojave Desert Land Trust to ensure land is protected and cared for in the Mojave and Colorado Deserts.

Home Sweet Home • A variety of different Airstream Suites and Vista X Suites are designed with you in mind. Midcentury and minimalistic, each Airstream has everything you need for an overnight stay, plus the comfort and thoughtful design you’re hoping for when away from home. Airstreams 152 LOCALE MAGAZINE

are equipped with a comfortable bed with luxury linens, a private bathroom, kitchen amenities and a private patio area perfect for taking in your surroundings (and sunsets). Whether you’re traveling with the whole family, your significant other or flying solo, you’re sure to have the perfect Joshua Tree experience here.

AUTOCAMP JOSHUA TREE 62209 Verbena Rd Joshua Tree, CA 92252 844.366.9715 www.autocamp.com/ joshua-tree

escape /// around the clock

Ca r l

Sa n t

a Mo

nica

Lag

Be a

sbad

TRANSPORTS YOU TO:

• Vibrant stucco, terracotta tiling and sky-blue coastlines are three anecdotes used to describe the grand scenery of Valencia, Spain and the equally gorgeous Hotel Casa Del Mar. Perched on the water’s edge, this Spanish escape embraces its foreign counterpart to a tee with its Spanish architecture that pays homage to the beautiful Valencia coast.

• The Ranch at Laguna Beach’s capacity to embrace both land and sea while also featuring lovely Baroque decor make it comparable to the ever-enchanting city of Porto, Portugal. With acres upon acres of coastal canyon wilderness and a collection of quaint cafes and restaurants, this Laguna Beach favorite will undoubtedly impress.

Valencia, Spain

Wailea, HI

• California and the Aloha State have more in common than their glittering coastlines, and The Westin Carlsbad proves it. This hilltop hideaway sits atop over 50 acres of rolling hills and features lush palms and sweeping, panoramic ocean views, evoking visions of Maui’s green, paradisiacal mountains and dazzling hillsides. THE WESTIN CARLSBAD RESORT & SPA www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/sanwc-the-westincarlsbad-resort-and-spa

lls n We

Porto, Portugal

HOTEL CASA DEL MAR www.hotelcasadelmar.com

THE RANCH AT LAGUNA BEACH www.theranchlb.com

Just a Road Trip Away

Los

gel

THESE 7 HOTELS IN SOCAL WILL TRANSPORT YOU OVERSEAS Written By: Christian Waizinger • From beachfront bungalows to mountainside lodges, the Golden State’s surplus of stellar stays is a marvel in its own right. But an even rarer gem, even on the West Coast, is a hotel that can truly transport its guests, evoking memories and visions of divine destinations from all around the world. These seven hotels harness the unique ability to help guests truly escape and embark on adventure in a city far away.

TRANSPORTS YOU TO:

Jol la

Tuscany, Italy

TRANSPORTS YOU TO:

Berlin, Germany

MIRAMONTE INDIAN WELLS RESORT & SPA www.miramonteresort.com

TRANSPORTS YOU TO:

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Morocco

• Modeled after the culturally and architecturally rich Marrakesh skyline, the Cara Hotel embraces the spirit of Morocco. Pristine, sun-bleached stucco archways catch the sun and reflect it onto the dazzling tile mosaics as you enter an equally pearly pool deck embellished with gold accents. CARA HOTEL www.carahotel.com

• Breathtaking, elegant and romantic are just a few words that describe this majestic desert oasis. Nestled against the Santa Rosa Mountains, the Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa offers travelers a Mediterranean escape like no other. The property is a peaceful haven with a world-class spa, multiple pools, lush citrus gardens and an alluring olive grove.

Nestled in a cove of the Santa Rosa Mountains, the Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa offers travelers a Mediterranean escape like no other.

TRANSPORTS YOU TO:

The Oregon Coast

• If it’s an escape to the pine-filled bluffs of the Oregon coast that you seek, look no further than The Lodge at Torrey Pines. With a luxurious cabin aesthetic and a view of the Pacific Ocean that mirrors the beauty of its northern counterpart, The Lodge at Torrey Pines is the ultimate woodsy getaway. THE LODGE AT TORREY PINES www.lodgetorreypines.com

• Berlin: a city known for its elegant blend of historical charm and blooming, cuttingedge nightlife. No California hotel captures this unique blend of antiquity and modernity better than the retro-chic Ace Hotel & Swim Club in Palm Springs. Boasting a soothing, minimalist aesthetic atop a 179-room midcentury classic, this Palm Springs staple has taken a timeless treasure and turned it into a modern masterpiece. ACE HOTEL & SWIM CLUB Palm Springs www.acehotel.com/palmsprings

TRANSPORTS YOU TO:

India

una

thank you to our partners Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage

Old Town La Quinta

Andaz San Diego

Omni Hotels & Resorts

Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Paséa Hotel & Spa

Avila’s El Ranchito

Physicians Center for Renewal

Balboa Bay Resort

PIRCH

Belmont Park Entertainment

Ranch 45

Cafe Sevilla Spanish Restaurant and Tapas Bar

Rancho Relaxo

Catalina Express

Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Indian Wells

Classic Club

Ristorante Mamma Gina

Coachella Crossroads

Rock & Brews

Cody’s La Jolla

Rum Social Kitchen & Cocktails

Constellation Brands

Shade Hotel Redondo Beach | Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach |

Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge

The Strand House/ Rock’N Fish Manhattan Beach BREWCO |

Fletcher Jones Motorcars

Buzzrock Brewing Co. /George Lopez Brewing Co.

Forever Ageless

SilverRock Resort

Fork Knife and Spoon Catering

Spotlight 29 Casino

German Tuning Corporation

The City of La Quinta

Grind & Prosper Hospitality Group | Louisiana Purchase SD,

The District at Tustin Legacy

Miss B’s Coconut Club, Park 101 Carlsbad, PB Shore Club, CopaCabana | Q&A Oceanside Grover Aesthetics Heirloom Craft Kitchen | Cork & Fork Wine Bar | Tu Madres Jones Agency Kaminskiy Design and Remodeling Ken Grody Ford Live Well Clinic Mozambique Restaurant & Skyloft O’Bayley Communications Ocean Park Inn

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Sea Level Restaurant & Lounge | zinc@shade | The Brews Hall |

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens Trevor’s at The Tracks Trio Restaurant Tru Grit Fitness Virgin Hotels/Elia Beach Club Warren Christopher Flooring William Grant & Sons Wilma & Frieda’s Cafe Winston’s Crown Jewelers Zense on El Paseo