Summer 2021

SHOPPE EDITION

#120

plus

30 OUR EDITORS’

PINKIES UP » BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S AWAITS AT SOUTH COAST PL AZA’S ALL-NEW BLUE BOX CAFE

Summer Picks FOR THE CUTEST SOCAL SHOPS

Nicky Hilton FASHION-FORWARD

AN INSIDE LOOK AT:

Refreshing Summer Sips for Sunny Days Ahead

Rooftops for a Sky-High Soiree

Dreamy Destinations For Total Relaxation

Contributor Call Out PHOTO BY:

KAMBRIA FISCHER www.kambriafischer.com @kambria_fischer_photo Foodie Feature - Taste the Rainbow Snake Oil Cocktail Company 1735 Hancock St, Ste D, San Diego, CA 92101 www.snakeoilcocktail.com | @snakeoilcocktail Milagro Tequila www.milagrotequila.com | @milagrotequila Photoshoot Location: JULEP Venue 1735 Hancock St, San Diego, CA 92101­ www.julepvenue.com | @julepvenue DATE TAKEN: APRIL 12, 2021 16 LOCALE MAGAZINE

San Diego

LOCALE MAGAZINE 17

®

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 Content Editor kaylin@localemagazine.com | @kaylinwaizinger TAYLOR GORSKI Content Editor taylor@localemagazine.com | @taylorgorski CHRIS HUGHES Copy Editor chris@hughescopywriting.com DESIGN VICENTE MARTÍ SOLAR Illustrator vicentemartisolar@gmail.com PRODUCTION LAUREN LEWELLEN Partnerships Content Associate 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 SAVANNAH BENTON Social Media Coordinator savannah@localemagazine.com | @savbenton FINANCE VALERIE KERR Accountant accounting@localemagazine.com

THE CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS AARON J. PELLOT @ajpone ALLIE LEBOS allieandla.com | @allielebos ANDREW SMITH cvbeerscene.com BIANCA KASAWDISH bkasawdish.contently.com | @biancakasawdish CARMEN VARNER itscarmen.com | @carmenvarner JANE ADLER domainbyjane.com | @janemcgradler JORDAN NISHKIAN wordsbyjordan.com | @wordsbyjordan KANDACE CORNELL kandacecornellcopy.com | @lachicamericaine KERI BRIDGWATER keribridgwater.com | @keri.bridgwater LYNNE EODICE eodiceimages.smugmug.com | @lynneeodice NEAL HRUBY datethecity.com | @date.the.city RAPHAEL MADRID therendernetwork.com/author/rmadrid | @rawrphael REYES BACA exploreytion.weebly.com | @exploreytion PHOTOGRAPHERS AKIN ODEBUNMI anophotography.com | @akin_rw ARI MOSHAYEDI arimophoto.com | @arimophoto CHAD MELLON chadmellon.com | @chadmellon JARED SCHLACHET AND JOE MAGNANI jsquaredphotography.com | @j2pix JOHN TRICE johntrice.com | @triceisright JOSIE GONZALES byjosiegonzales.com | @josgonzal KAMBRIA FISCHER kambriafischer.com | @kambria_fischer_photo LILY FASSNACHT lovelilyphoto.com | @lovelily.photo MARIVIC DIVINA marivicdivina.com | @marivicdivina NATHAN COX nathancoxstudios.com | @nathancoxstudios *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

Photo - Courtesy of Amangiri

Canyon Point, UT

173 Feature

Nourish to Flourish The Top Places to Revel in Wellness While Relaxing and Recharging

AMANGIRI

editor's note Whoa! What the heck just happened?

A year ago, I couldn’t tell you what I was doing—I mean sure, I was at home probably cooking yet another dinner of pasta and watching an addictive reality TV show. But the past year has felt like the longest whirlwind of a year where days on end blended together. It’s a bit crazy to think, however, that within one year of a global pandemic hitting civilization, we now have a vaccine and life feels (somewhat) normal again here in California.

I am still writing this note from the comfort of my home (okay, yes I’ll admit: also in sweatpants), but we have reached the light at the end of the tunnel. It’s a really great feeling to be able to hug your loved ones and chat with a stranger—amongst many other little things we now know were taken for granted pre-pandemic.

Many have compared this upcoming summer to that of the “Roaring ‘20s”. I personally am a fan of this

analogy...take all my money and let’s live it up. Within this grand summer issue of LOCALE, we’re featuring our favorite SoCal shops— buy that new bikini for your tropical vacay (pg. 60), support a local maker (pg. 56) or simply brighten up your space with a new plant (pg. 72). Explore a new restaurant, from sunny rooftops (pg. 155) to a new natural wine bar in Costa Mesa (pg. 108), where you can indulge in decadent food and refreshing sips.

Plan a trip(!); we’re highlighting 20 resorts that emphasize wellness and relaxation (pg. 173) and also giving you the inside scoop on Maui’s hidden gems (pg. 186).

Our team hopes this magazine allows you to draw inspiration no matter where this year takes you.

As always, thank you for being a supporter of our publication! We deeply appreciate each and every one of our readers.

Cheers,

TAYLOR GORSKI Content Editor taylor@localemagazine.com | @taylorgorski

®

J

making the issue June 2021 /// Shoppe Edition

Newport Beach

Just like the rest of the world, things looked slightly different this past year for Locale.

And while many things have changed, one thing remains the same: our dedication to shining a light on our local community.

There is nothing we love more than our mom and pop shops, family-owned restaurants and quaint boutique hotels. After all, these businesses are the very things that define and enrich our sun-drenched neck of the woods!

This summer issue, just like the ones before it, highlights four regions of Southern California: Los Angeles, Orange County, Greater Palm Springs and San Diego. The difference?

Rather than four separate issues, we’ve combined these markets into one well-thought-out book that depicts everything we love about SoCal—from our delicious foodie section to our stunning shoppe guide and beyond!

This book was created to inspire you to branch out and explore all that Southern California has to offer. Whether it’s a shopping expedition in LA, a surf staycation in San Diego or a trip up the coast for a wellness retreat, the opportunities for adventure are endless. As they always say, “The West Coast is the best coast”...and we won’t argue with that!

We hope this issue follows you wherever you go—that is rides shotgun in your car, finds a spot on your coffee table and makes its way into your suitcase. It’s glossy cover may lose its shine, but hey, that means we did our job.

All rights reserved © 2021, 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.

ALIVE FEATURE

Photographed By: Kambria Fischer Written By: Neal Hruby Location: Lido Marina Village Electric Boat Rental 3424 Via Oporto, Ste 101 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.612.8248 www.eboatsrental.com

20

LOCALE MAGAZINE

LO CA L E M AG A Z I N E 949.436.8910 info@localemagazine.com Locale Magazine is printed by SOUTHWEST OFFSET PRINTING 13650 Gramercy Pl Gardena, CA 90249 310.323.0112 | southwestoffset.com

table of contents June 2021 /// Shoppe Edition

Joshua Tree

55

Shoppe Guide

Purpose Behind the Purchase 25+ Small but Mighty Shops That’ll Sweeten Your Summer

62

For Keep’s Sake!

These Souvenirs From Opal Atlas Will Help You Relive Your Desert Days

OPAL ATLAS www.opalatlas.com @opalatlas

PHOTO BY: JULIE LAFLAMME

22

LOCALE MAGAZINE

table of contents June 2021 /// Shoppe Edition

San Diego

Pg. 134

108

Costa Mesa

Profile

YOU CAN SIP WITH US

Westside Costa Mesa’s Natural Wine Bar Is Pouring Up a Good Time

112

Behind the Brand

CHEF'D, SEALED, DELIVERED

This Food Delivery Company Is Good for Foodies, Restaurants and the Environment

Pg. 100

115 foodie 94 Get the Deets

BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S

40

Cover Story

FASHIONABLY FAMOUS

From “It Girl” Celebutante to Respected Businesswoman, Author and Designer, Nicky Hilton Talks Sustainable Style, Motherhood and Staying Humble 24 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Sip Pretty at Tiffany’s in Costa Mesa’s South Coast Plaza

100

Feature

TASTE THE RAINBOW Sip Your Way Through Summer With These Refreshing Cocktail Creations

106

96

Two Things We Love

CIAO DOWN

Feed Your Heart and Soul With Craft House’s Savory Brunch Staples

Profile

How This Italian Chef Has Made Point Loma the Premier Destination for Fresh-Made Pasta

ALL SIGNS POINT TO BRUNCH

Feature

HOAGIE HEAVEN

Take a Bite Out of These Drool-Worthy Sandwiches in SoCal

123

Feature

SUMMER STUNNERS

Wine, Dine and Soak Up the Sun at These Stunning SoCal Restaurants

134

Around the Clock

YOU GOTTA WORK (FOR YOUR CROWN)

Pair Your Summer Outdoor Activities With a Corona Hard Seltzer

Pg. 108

120

Meals Deconstructed

A SLICE OF SUMMER This Fresh, Fruity Dish Is One in a Melon

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

table of contents June 2021 /// Shoppe Edition

Newport Beach

Pg. 160

Lake Arrowhead

24 Hours 158 Beverly Hills

THAT’S WHERE I WANNA BE

Put Your Sunnies on for a Full Day in the 90210

160

Lake Arrowhead

BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Discovering “The Alps” of Southern California

162

Pg. 145

San Juan Capistrano

living like a local shoppe 50 Mariel Ahorro 52 James Anthony Morelos

foodie 90 Dzung Lewis 92 Quinnton Austin alive 138 Ron deHarte 140 Aaron Low escape 168 Cedric Channels and Blake Nelle

170 Casey Lesher 26 LOCALE MAGAZINE

alive 142

152

UNLEASHING THEIR FULL PET-ENTIAL

Artist Alex Proba Brings the Mundane to Life With a Whirl of Vibrant Designs

Get the Deets

This OC Spot Will Be Your New Favorite Place to Take Your Pup

Artist Spotlight

STARTED FROM THE BOTTOM...

155

145

Feature

A MIDSUMMER DAY'S DREAM

Celebrate Summer With a Sky-High Soiree on One of These Trendy Rooftops

Feature

No Matter Your Budget, These 3 Date Itineraries Will Leave You With a Happy Heart

ROOFTOP RENDEZVOUS

ON A MISSION

This Tiny Town Is Full of History and Places to Eat, Play and Stay

164

South Park

A WALK IN THE PARK Take a Day Trip to San Diego's Urban South Park Neighborhood

San Diego

escape 173 Feature

NOURISH TO FLOURISH

The Top Places to Revel in Wellness While Relaxing and Recharging

184

Feature

FINAL FLING BEFORE THE RING

Pop the Bubbly and Prepare for a Weekend of Pool Time and Pour Decisions

Pg. 188

186

Around the Clock

YOU HAD ME AT ALOHA

A Maui To-Do Guide for Both First-Time and Experienced Visitors

188

How to Make

TOTALLY TROPICAL A Globally Inspired Aesthetic Anchors the Exquisite Interiors of Design 4 Corners

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

NICKY HILTON @nickyhilton

40 LOCALE MAGAZINE

AU

T

C E L E B U TA N T E ” L TO IR G RE N, SPE A “IT M CTED IGNER, NICK M BUSINESSWO S E , O YH DD LE I LT Y N FR ON A ST E L T R R A H E B O H L K S S U S TA I N A T OD O MO AN H DS TAY ING H UMBLE

WRIT TEN BY: KERI BRIDGWATER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: CAMRAFACE | EARLY MORNING RIOT HAIR AND MAKEUP BY: PAMEL A BROGARDI | @GL AMBYPAMEL AB ASSISTANT: KELLI KRISTEN

41

A

G

E,

ED

E

ES

CA

PIS

OE

N.

IO

SH

FA

IN

G

RI

ES

H ,T

H ES

IN H ET M SO T P, IL DO U H G TO IN KY ED S NT IC ES WA —N DR WI …”

NE HE —T SK RY EL F IT AY M O JEW HE S, T TH

LW IA V

SO

42 LOCALE MAGAZINE

ES

C

O

TH

E

AC

IL

G N

U YO

M A VE RY

“FRO

N

O

As a member of the iconic Hilton family, socialite and hotel heiress NICKY HILTON has been at the forefront of fashion and pop culture since the early 2000s. A born-and-raised New Yorker, she grew up in the Waldorf Towers at the legendary Waldorf Astoria in midtown Manhattan and became a regular tabloid fixture in the aughts alongside sister Paris. At 16, she also starred in David LaChapelle’s infamous “Hip-Hop Debs” Vanity Fair photoshoot. Since those crazy and colorful paparazzi flashbulb-filled days, Hilton has turned a die-hard love of fashion into a successful design career that’s spanned almost two decades.

“From a very young age, I always knew I wanted to do something in fashion. I loved the escapism of it—the dressing up, the accessories, the shoes, the jewelry, the fact that you could put something on and transform yourself—I loved all of it,” Hilton reminisces.

With mom Kathy regularly taking the sisters to shows in Paris and NYC, where they sat FROW (the row of seats closest to the catwalk) at Bryant Park as teenagers, it’s little wonder that the youngest Hilton daughter became a fashion icon in her own right. After studying at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), Hilton’s first clothing line debuted in 2004, closely followed by namesake collection Nicholai and collaborations with labels like Tolani and Linea Pelle. Her book, “365 Style,” hit shelves in the fall of 2014. Today, her new ecoconscious and vegan shoe collection with Upper East Side boutique French Sole offers savvy shoppers a timeless way to look chic with a clear conscience.

The Spanish-made espadrilles and ballet flats in the new Nicky Hilton x French Sole Spring/Summer 2021 collection perfectly embody the “classic with an edge” sartorial style of the mom and businesswoman. Even better? The nine-piece line was created using entirely sustainable materials, including organic cotton, linen and plant-based soles. “We all have to do our part to keep this

world a beautiful place for our children, grandchildren and future generations. It’s no secret how harmful the fashion industry is to the environment. So, I wanted to take a step in the right direction and start doing my part with this collection,” Hilton says. “I love ballet flats; they’re the perfect combination of comfort and elegance, and they’re practical. I lead a busy life in New York City where I’m dropping the kids off and running to meetings, and I can’t do all that in heels.”

In keeping with past collections, Hilton named each shoe style after women she loves and admires, including the best-selling Kathy (for her mom). Fictional characters also get a nod, as the Eloise, “a beautiful harlequin velvet loafer with tassels named after a little princess from The Plaza Hotel,” is another Hilton favorite.

As Hilton has become more mindful about her impact on the planet and living more eco-consciously, she says it’s been inspiring to learn about a growing number of designers who create ethical and cruelty-free fashion lines that don’t sacrifice style. “I love St. Roche; they make the most beautiful organic cotton dresses and tops that I’ve been wearing a lot lately. I also love shopping at Maison de Mode—a beautifully curated online store that highlights all sustainable brands.”

43

PO M POMS UP » Hilton was the head cheerleader at her high school (St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School) in Los Angeles.

44 LOCALE MAGAZINE

YOU B AT TE R B E L IE V E I T » When it came to lockdown, Hilton found joy in the same things we did! “I did a lot of baking during quarantine,” she says. “I’m a self-taught master baker and love making cakes, cupcakes and sweets.”

HOME SUITE HOME » Growing up, Nicky and her sister Paris were called “the Eloises of the Waldorf,” in reference to the series of Eloise books written by socialite and cabaret singer Kay Thompson in the 1950s.

The series details the adventures of a little girl who lives at The Plaza Hotel in New York.

REAL FU R? » “No chance.”

FAVO R I T E C U I S I NE? » “Mexican!

I love tacos, guacamole and a skinny spicy margarita.”

“W

CH

IL

EA

D

RE

H AV LL

E T O D O O U R PA R T T OK E

CHILDREN AND AND

EP

TH

IS

WO RLD A BEA OUR EG UTIFUL PL ACE FOR E NE ON INDUST RA FA S H I RY I E TIO UL H S T NS. MF TO R A I T H ’S NO SECRET HOW TH EE NV IRO NME N T. ” — N I C K Y H I LT O N

N,

GR

FUT

UR

LOCALE MAGAZINE 45

E , F A M I LY I S M EV “TO ER Y TH O S D N E T I A H N , EY’R G. WE AR SE O L ES C UC E L H B I A R T O SYST N INCRED SUPP EM . TH EY A MY ANCHO R E T O T A L LY R.” —N ICK Y H I LT O N

A

success to her family. “To me, family is everything. We are so close, and they’re such an incredible support system.

They are totally my anchor,” she says. “Not only is my father an incredible husband, but he’s also an amazing businessman. He grew up in a rich family and could have taken the easy route of working in the hotel business, but he was driven and wanted to make a name for himself.

With hard work and dedication—alongside his partner Jeff Hyland—he built one of, if not the most, prestigious luxury real estate businesses in the world. My siblings and I always go to him for advice. He’s very fair, very smart, very practical and a very good listener.”

Aimed at a slightly different demographic, another collection Hilton recently turned her design skills to is the Spring/Summer 2021 capsule with Dotty Dungarees, a British-based childrenswear line. Co-founded by sister-in-law Alice Goldsmith (Hilton married Goldsmith’s brother, British financier James Rothschild, in London six years ago), the brand initially focused on brightly colored dungarees designed to fit both boys and girls, but dungaree dresses have since been added. “My girls have been wearing them for years and love them, so I came up with this idea to join forces on a line and added my personal touches like the cotton candy-colored pastels, heart-shaped pockets and cat buttons,” says Hilton, who also shares that the denim overalls and little pink flower shorts are firm favorites with daughters Lily-Grace, 4, and Teddy, 3.

As synonymous as the Hilton name is with glamour and style, it’s one also deeply rooted in philanthropy. In 1979, Conrad Hilton, the American business magnate and founding father of the Hilton dynasty, left the bulk of his fortune to his eponymous Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. Giving back is equally as important to his great-granddaughter, who devotes her efforts to a number of charities. In April, 10% of sales from the Nicky Hilton x French Sole collection went to animal welfare group Well Beings. “I think it’s very important to give back; it’s part of our family’s DNA. I do a lot of work with and am on the board of Animal Haven, a non-profit shelter that finds homes for abandoned cats and dogs here in New York. I also work closely with the LifeWay Network, an organization that provides housing and healing for survivors of human trafficking.”

With a glamorous cast of socialites and philanthropists spanning four generations of the famous family, Hilton says that she owes much of her personal and professional

No stranger to business herself, Hilton learned the ropes by landing an internship at a magazine. “I didn’t have the most glamorous tasks, taking lunch orders and taking the trash out, but I learned so much. No matter who you are, never think you’re above small tasks. My mother always taught me to be humble, not to get too big for your britches, to show up on time and be respectful of people’s time.”

On the subject of becoming a mother herself, Hilton says the experience has been magical. “It’s a love like no other. I love that I have two [children] and that they have each other. They’ve been such great companions for one another, especially during this strange past year.”

As far as what’s next for the entrepreneur, Hilton says there are a few projects in the fashion space that she can’t quite talk about yet, but her girls are going to camp this summer, which they’re both very excited about. “I haven’t been back to England since the wedding and love London, so hopefully we can visit there this summer too, [so] my kids can see their cousins and I’ll be able to see my in-laws again. And, of course, come back to California because they love seeing their grandparents in Los Angeles.”

46

HIN “I T

IT’S

K IT’S VERY IMP O

PA R T

R TA N T

O F O U R FA MI LY

TO GIVE BACK;

’S DNA .”—N I C K Y H I LT O N

LOCALE MAGAZINE 47

shoppe

PHOTO BY: Corey Wilson • TALENTLESS www.talentless.co | @talentless

June 2021 /// sustainability. intention. community.

55

Shoppe Guide

Purpose Behind the Purchase 25+ Small but Mighty Shops That’ll Sweeten Your Summer

61

Back to the Basics

LOCALE MAGAZINE 49

shoppe /// living like a local

Eyes Wide Open Vitra Eyewear Optician Gives Us an Inside Look at Her OC Favs

Huntington Beach NAME: Mariel Ahorro JOB TITLE: Optician at Vitra Eyewear

3 PAIRS OF SUNGLASSES I LOVE:

RESIDENT OF: Huntington Beach

1. Dealan by Jacques Marie Mage 2. Zelda by Mykita 3. Micro Round by Dita

LOCAL LIVING: 15 years

WE ARE FAMILY

I love that even though Orange County is quite large, there’s still the comfort of community everywhere you go!

Everyone is willing to stop for a quick chat or offer to help. That’s how we are here at Vitra Eyewear. We’re like family, and we treat everyone that comes through our doors as a member too!

“It’s such an honor to have the chance to not only help someone see the clearest they ever have, but also help them get a little boost of confidence and happiness in their everyday life.”

ISLAND ESCAPE

VITRA EYEWEAR 3333 Bear St, Ste 153 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.966.2186 www.vitraeyewear.com Photoshoot Location: STITCH & FEATHER 21034 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste C130 Huntington Beach, CA 92648 714.374.5860 www.stitchandfeather.com

www.visitcatalinaisland.com

BOHO BOUTIQUE FINDS

Ò I love going to Stitch and Feather!

I’m like a kid in a candy store looking through all of the beautifully curated pieces with that cool California feel.

They have the cutest clothes, shoes, oil perfumes and even kitchen towels and greeting cards! www.stitchandfeather.com

GRAB THE CHOPSTICKS!

Ò Tabu Shabu is my go-to spot for a healthy, comforting and delicious meal.

There are so many kinds of meats, vegetables and broth bases to choose from—not to mention all their dipping sauces. I usually get the Wagyu Chuck Roll and get them to mix the Sukiyaki broth and Spicy Miso—with extra veggies please! Pro tip: ask about their porridge! www.tabushabu.com

50 LOCALE MAGAZINE

NATURE’S BEST

Ò I discovered the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve during quarantine last summer, and it’s been my happy place ever since!

The Brightwater Trailhead takes you through a gorgeous hidden path adorned with flowers and trees that eventually opens up to the vast wetlands that are home to exotic birds. Sometimes I even get to walk alongside schools of fish that randomly jump out of the water! www.bolsachica.org

SEEING CLEARLY

Ò My favorite part about working at Vitra Eyewear, aside from the wonderful relationships we’ve made with our clients through the years, is when our customers’ faces light up the moment we find the perfect pair of glasses! We truly have an amazing collection of luxury eyewear that fits all types of looks, needs and lifestyles. www.vitraeyewear.com

Photographed By: Lily Fassnacht | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar

Ò Going to Catalina Island makes me feel like I’m in a small seaside town in Italy! There is such a gorgeous view when you’re about to pull up to the harbor, being surrounded by the ocean and seeing all the boats and houses along the cliffs. They have cute little shops and restaurants all over town; a must is Descanso Beach Club where they have a restaurant/bar right on the sand and other fun activities like giant water floaters and ziplining.

shoppe /// living like a local

Treasure Seeker Mojave Flea Trading Post Founder Shares His Five Favorite Desert Gems

Palm Springs NAME: James Anthony Morelos JOB TITLE: Founder & Curator of Mojave Flea Trading Post

3 CRAZY-COOL ITEMS SOLD AT MOJAVE FLEA:

RESIDENT OF: Palm Springs

1. Custom hats from Hampui 2. Fresh flower arrangements from Hermano 3. Roller skates from Intentionally Blank

LOCAL LIVING: 2 years

ON THE HORIZON

I know we just opened, but I’m excited about the possibility of expanding our store concept to other regions!

“I love my team. The smart, talented and authentic people that have come into my life to help me run this business make it all worthwhile.”

EYES ON THE FRIES

MOJAVE FLEA TRADING POST 383 N Indian Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262 www.mojaveflea.com @mojaveflea

www.theheydaypalmsprings.com

SETTING UP SHOP

Ò After doing pop-up markets across the country for years, I’m thrilled to have a permanent marketplace down the street from my house. It’s been incredible to not only to bring together many of the makers and merchants we’ve worked with under one roof, but to see their offerings so well-received. www.mojaveflea.com

52 LOCALE MAGAZINE

SHOP SMALL

Ò Thick As Thieves was the first retailer to really highlight locally made goods in the desert. Their beautiful shop is nestled in the historic Spanish buildings of downtown Palm Springs, and they have an assortment of supercool items for sale. From rugs and throws to books, candles and graphic tees, this shop has it all. www.shopthieves.com

OLD HOLLYWOOD HANGOUT

Ò When it comes to staycationing, Villa Royale is the best. This beautiful oasis was restored to perfection, and the architecture, food and event space are all unparalleled. The hotel was originally built in 1947 and was a lowkey spot for Hollywood celebrities looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. www.provenancehotels.com/villa-royale

FRESH AIR, FRESH FOOD

Ò El Mirasol at Los Arboles was a godsend during COVID because outdoor dining is what they do best. This Palm Springs restaurant is no sidewalk set up—it features a gorgeous courtyard and serves up my favorite Mexican food in Palm Springs. Pro tip: order the queso fundido (and get it con chorizo if you’re feeling decadent)! www.elmirasolrest.com/location/north-elmirasol-at-los-arboles

Photography Provided By: Paul Lowe | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar

Ò The Heyday is an incredible burger pop-up that just found a home at The Hilton in Downtown Palm Springs.

They’ve added so many delicious items to their menu, including a plant-based mushroom burger, late-night fries and a lobster roll. And unlike other burger joints, The Heyday has an extensive list of cocktails, beer and wine.

shoppe /// guide

25+ SMALL BUT

MIGHTY SHOPS THAT’LL SWEETEN YOUR SUMMER

Purpose Behind the Purchase

n

Now that we’re officially done hibernating (hallelujah!), it’s time to turn our attention to truly pressing matters: strutting into summer in style. That’s right—it’s time to hang up those sweaters and polish up your warmweather wardrobe. But before you head to the nearest department store to sift through the endless racks, thumb through our summer shoppe guide and discover a marvelous collection of local brands.

From dreamy desert boutiques to the best of beauty, swim and leisure wear, these movers, makers and shakers tell a series of untold stories with goods that’ll have you head over heels.

LOCALE MAGAZINE 55

Makers + Movers Glow From the Inside Out With the Help of These Local Beauty Brands

Trinity Mouzon Co-Founder and CEO of Golde

GOLDE www.golde.co @golde

» “Golde was born in Brooklyn in 2017 from a one-bedroom apartment, where we launched a single product: the Original Turmeric Latte Blend! Since then, we've grown to a small but mighty team and have shared our superfood essentials with thousands of supporters.

Our products are a celebration of superfoods that effortlessly boost your daily routine, from morning smoothies to skincare.

You can count on us for formulas that are always 100% natural and vegan-friendly!”

Superfood Self-Care

Micah Anderson and Emily Heitman Co-Founders of LEEF Organics

LEEF ORGANICS www.leeforganics.com @leef_organics

Fueling Be-leef

» “When we started this company about seven years ago, we saw a need to celebrate the holistic power of olive oil and bring it to a new audience. We were inspired by the incredible health benefits of this ancient superfood as well as how that integrated into our new lifestyle. We believe olive oil is at the foundation of a holistic diet and the key to radiant skin. We hope for customers to experience a shift in how they feel and how their skin looks from Wonder Valley.”

56 LOCALE MAGAZINE

WONDER VALLEY www.welcometowondervalley.com @wondervalley

Made With Love Tahera Rene Christy Founder of Love Amour Propre » “In March 2020, I found myself unemployed from my corporate sales career because of the epic viral pandemic that forced me and much of society to stay at home. I chose to use my time of solace to create. I wanted to create natural and organic products that could help my family feel better and solve some of our dermatological concerns. I wanted to make Amour Propre with the root of love as the foundation to its success.”

LOVE AMOUR PROPRE www.amourp.com @loveamourpropre

Photos - Golde: Issey Kobori | Wonder Valley: Brian Guido & Wonder Valley | LEEF Organics | Love Amour Propre: Tahera Rene Christy & LIVIA AVERCHE PHOTOGRAPHY

Ancient Elixirs Alison and Jay Carroll Founders of Wonder Valley

» “At LEEF, we take pride in the products we make and are involved in the entire process.

We farm the material, do all the manufacturing in-house and keep our distribution in-house. It’s truly a farm-tolifestyle brand. We believe in the recreational use of these plants but wanted to develop a brand which was more focused on the non-psychoactive elements of what these plants have to offer.”

Written By: Kaylin Waizinger and Taylor Gorski

Stella Adena Owner of Rancho Relaxo

Photos - Rancho Relaxo: Stella Adena & Nathan Cox | Xēba Botánica: Alexa Vitug & Grace Del Aguila | Love This Mother: Logan Asercion | Etto Oil: Taylr Anne Castro & Canon John Castro

RANCHO RELAXO www.ranchorelaxoca.com @ranchorelaxoca

» “One of my goals in starting Rancho Relaxo was to humanize the retail industry. There are so many creative artisans in the Greater Palm Springs area that capture the unique essence of this desert oasis. I wanted to bring their creations to a wider audience. As a shop, we specialize in beautiful, handcrafted items that bring joy.

There are real people and stories behind all of the products we carry. My hope is that these items are shared over a lifetime with friends and family.”

Cuteness Curated

Lyndsey Hansen Owner of Love This Mother

LOVE THIS MOTHER www.lovethismother.com @lovethismother

Down to Earth

Good-Natured Rachel Bibbee & Daniel Olvera Co-Founders of Xeba Botánica » “We want our customers to experience a high-quality product without the expensive price tag— to feel refreshed and revitalized while knowing exactly what’s in the products they’re using. We started off by making our own personal care line because we craved remedies that were clean and natural that actually work.

Xeba Botánica hopes to inspire people to be more thoughtful about how their dollar impacts their community and the planet.”

» “I’ve been passionate about living sustainably for some time and wanted to create a brand that offered affordable access to earth-friendly essentials for our daily lives right here in San Diego. Our products intend to protect Mother Earth from overconsumption, single-use [products], plastic waste and unnecessary packaging. We are passionate about providing locals with a more sustainable solution to their everyday needs.”

XĒBA BOTÁNICA www.xebabotanica.com @xebabotanica

Sun-Kissed Serenity Taylr Anne Castro Founder of Etto Oil » “Based in coastal California, I have acquired a love for a slow life. With this, I have come to appreciate simple things, and that includes what I look for in my skincare. I wanted to create a brand that was thoughtful, kind to the environment and a product that would be used every day. Etto Oil was created with only the purest, organic ingredients to nurture your skin. Etto Oil is a combination of botanical oils that feel so good on the skin.”

ETTO OIL www.ettooil.com @ettooil

LOCALE MAGAZINE 57

shoppe /// guide

Food-Inspired Nail Polish » “In this Portland-based nail polish line, each color has a food name! They’re vegan, cruelty-free and non-toxic (10-free). My favorite combo is Pistachio with a Cookies & Cream top-coat.”

Palate Polish | $12 San Diego

u Carynn Pinckney Owner of Home Ec

“À Table” Cookbook » “Author Rebekah Peppler is an American living in Paris, who teaches us how to enjoy French food, drinks and culture at home in a way that is modern and accessible.”

Author: Rebekah Peppler | $29.95

Diaspora Co. Spices » “Diaspora Co. is a farmerforward spice company that is all about equity for workers. The spices are always same-year harvest (a surprisingly rare feat) and single-origin. These values make for delicious, flavorful, unique spices with an ethical production line.”

Diaspora Co. $12-$18

Blue Corn Masa Harina » “Masienda makes the most beautiful Masa Harina I’ve ever seen or eaten.

This Masa makes it super easy (and fun!) to make fresh, delicious blue corn tortillas at home.”

Masienda $10 58 LOCALE MAGAZINE

“Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat” Cookbook » “This is an essential cookbook for everyone cheffing it up at home.

Samin Nosrat’s methods and recipes teach how to bring out and enhance flavor. I’ve carried this book since I opened the shop, and I will never stop!”

Author: Samin Nosrat $37.50

Olive Wood Cheese Grater Box » “Ever since I saw Samin make pesto with an Italian Nonna in “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat,” I knew I needed one of these beautiful grating boxes in my shop. They’re made in Italy from stainless steel and olive wood and are the most beautiful cheese graters I've ever seen.”

Bürstenhaus Redecker $42

HOME EC 2355 India St San Diego, CA 92101 619.940.5657 www.home-ec.co

That’s It...We’re Moving In This Little Italy Shop Is Something to Write Home About

Written By: Kaylin Waizinger • Photographed By: Josie Gonzales With a collection of goods that’ll tickle the fancy of any home hobbyist, this Little Italy haven is a local food-lover’s dream. From kitchenware and cookbooks to potted plants and pantry staples, Home Ec’s curated assortment of goodies is sure to spark joy. And let it be known—this shop is anything but a nod to the fargone ‘50s where women primarily wore aprons.

Owner Carynn Pinckney takes pride in creating a space where people of all ages, genders and ethnicities can find community.

Petu-Ya Nariz de Perro » “This sauce is an Izakaya-style chili oil, but it’s made in Tijuana with fresh, locally grown Mexican chilis. It’s a brilliant combination of Japanese and Mexican flavors!”

Petu-Ya | $12

w

shoppe /// guide

Sand Top, Blush $76

What’s summer without a new bikini?

Almost Naked Swimwear is designed to make women feel empowered, free, sexy and comfortable. Owners Amanda Pace and Kylie Williams met at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles before launching Almost Naked Swimwear.

“We are a women-owned company and really love putting our personal touch into every design,” the duo says. From earthy, neutral tones to vibrant, fun colors, there’s a bikini waiting for you for your next tropical vacay.

Sand Top, Blush $76

Sand Bottom, Blush $68

ALMOST NAKED SWIMWEAR www.almostnakedswim.com

Wilder Bottom, Sienna Print $68

Palm Top, Blush $62

‘Tis the Season for Tanlines Bikinis Are Like Fries...You Can’t Have Just One

Written By: Taylor Gorski Photography Provided By: Will Luna @willynillyknowsbest 60 LOCALE MAGAZINE

“We are a women-owned company and really love putting our personal touch into every design.”

—Amanda Pace and Kylie Williams

Slate Bottom, Blush $72

r ea W Leisure aizinger Kaylin W : y B n e Writt

Back to the Basics k

Known for his ties to the Kardashian empire, Scott Disick stepped out of their limelight and into his own with the launch of TALENTLESS in 2018. This clothing line has a comical backstory, as it was born out of insults he received for being “entitled yet talentless.” Leave it to Lord Disick to turn blatant disrespect into a fashion label. Apparently, whatever insults don’t kill him, he prints on T-shirts.

PURPOSE » TALENTLESS pays homage to the new wave of innovators, creators and influencers who’ve succeeded by opposing the standard conventions of what it means to be “talented.”

Setting Trends w

When it comes to the athleisure look, no one nails it quite like SET ACTIVE. This hip brand blurs the line between form and function, acknowledging life is often lived on the go.

Each of their “SETs” are designed to match with a palette of monochrome colors. With everything from leggings and bike shorts to hoodies and sweats, SET ACTIVE’s evergrowing collection offers a polished look without sacrificing comfort.

PURPOSE » SET ACTIVE is dedicated to being a community that inspires confidence with sophisticated styles and elevated everyday essentials.

Chic Meets Cozy

PRICE » Anything made by a lord is bound to be pricey. Typically, hoodies and sweats go for $100+, while tees and shorts hover around $50-70.

BEST FOR

» The hype beast or hype bae who wants

to keep things casual. Everything in this collection is comfy and fairly basic. Pair your TALENTLESS outfit with the right pair of sneakers and voilà!

EDITOR’S PICKS » Kim Is My Lawyer Crewneck » Women’s Modal Tank Dress » Boxing Shorts - Element TALENTLESS www.talentless.co | @talentless

L

LA-based MASONgrey effortlessly merges chic and cozy with its collection of buttery soft fabrics and stylish designs. You’ll find everything from PJ sets and kimonos to onesies and jumpsuits! Founded by motherof-two Maxine Bascue, this label is dedicated to creating luxury loungewear that’s as comfortable as it is sexy. Whoever said comfort can’t be cute hasn’t witnessed the lovable collections of MASONgrey.

PURPOSE

» Each piece of loungewear in this feminine

collection aims to help you reach your perfect state of hygge. In other words, MASONgrey makes loving the little things easy—especially when it’s a new set of PJs!

Photos - SET ACTIVE | TALENTLESS: Corey Wilson | MASONgrey

PRICE

PRICE » Slightly less than your average pair of Lemons—but the quality, comfort and fit are easily comparable (and worth the price).

BEST FOR

» Guys and gals on the go! Whether you’re

working from home, grabbing coffee or squeezing in a sweat sesh, you’ll love everything about this brand.

EDITOR’S PICKS

» Make no mistake: you’ll pay the price for

a pair of sweats. But once you slip into that silky soft fabric, you’ll be tossing the receipt in no time.

BEST FOR

» Busy moms and work-from-home warriors!

It’s time to throw out those dingy sweatshirts and worn-out leggings and upgrade that athome wardrobe.

EDITOR’S PICKS

» Form Racer Tank » Sculptflex Leggings » Luxform Bike Shorts

» Frankie Onesie » Cooper Set » Olivia Jumpsuit

SET ACTIVE www.setactive.co | @setactive

MASONgrey www.masongreyla.com | @masongreyla LOCALE MAGAZINE 61

shoppe /// guide

for keep’s sake!

Joshua Tree

These Souvenirs From Opal Atlas Will Help You Relive Your Desert Days Written By: Jordan Nishkian Photography By: Marlene Dunlevy and Julie Laflamme

a

Anyone who’s been to Joshua Tree can speak of its magic— it’s unlike anywhere else. The otherworldly trees, starry skies and natural beauty of the high desert are worth a memento. Fortunately, Opal Atlas owner Marlene Dunlevy is designing sweet souvenirs that capture this enchanting, unforgettable aesthetic.

Featuring items like pins, patches, hats and notepads, Opal Atlas is a collection of sensibly sentimental keepsakes that pay homage to vintage California vibes. “I have lived in the high desert for about five-and-a-half years now, and from the beginning, I felt like there was a missed opportunity in the souvenir market here,” Dunlevy shares. “Our area gets more and more visitors every year, and to put it simply, I felt like there could be cuter souvenirs for Joshua Tree!”

Although new to the JT retail scene, Dunlevy says that building her business has been a longtime dream. “I came up with the name

Marlene Dunlevy Owner, Opal Atlas

Opal Atlas, bought the URL and got the Instagram handle over six years ago! At that time, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to make or sell—just that I wanted my own business,” she explains.

Since she and her husband traveled so often, it was difficult to find the time to launch her business, but Dunlevy was able to channel her own love of souvenirs and find a silver lining out of the pandemic. “It wasn’t until the lockdown last spring that I had the time and space at home to really concentrate,” she notes.

Today, Dunlevy is designing items that make people nostalgic for the desert, and she plans on expanding her collection soon.

“Honestly, I think to some people, ‘souvenir’ is almost a dirty word, but I think that’s because gift shops are often full of things that you don’t actually want—and this is coming from someone who always visits the gift shop first!” Dunlevy says. “But to me, a souvenir is a tangible reminder of a moment and place in time, and who doesn’t want that?”

» Birds of a Feather

» “Starting Opal

Atlas connected me to a new community out here in the high desert,” Dunlevy says.

“I’ve met so many amazing people, and it’s all because I launched my business!”

Where to Shop Opal Atlas

“I love that nostalgic feeling—like a tug on your heart!”

—MARLENE DUNLEVY

62 LOCALE MAGAZINE

» You can find Opal Atlas souvenirs online, or you can shop inperson at Mojave Flea Trading Post (Palm Springs), Hi-Desert

OPAL ATLAS www.opalatlas.com @opalatlas

Daydream (Twentynine Palms), The Station (Joshua Tree) or Mercado Joshua Tree, a weekly outdoor market Dunlevy cofounded with some of her local maker friends.

Currently Obsessed With...

» “I love my bandana [featuring] flora and fauna from Joshua Tree National Park,” Dunlevy beams. “It was a collaboration with my friend Joan Horne, who did the illustrations on it.”

shoppe /// guide

Clean Hands

» The Corey Wilson Collection

Sustainable Suds

features three bottles paired with lemongrass and citrus ginger pod refills.

He Got the Shot

» The Corey Wilson

Collection showcases Wilson’s stunning, earthy photography.

Scrub-a-Dub-Dub

» The importance of washing your hands has been made even more evident this past year. Now, do it in style!

This Eco-Friendly Soap Brand Wants Clean Hands and a Clean Planet Written By: Raphael Madrid Photography By: Corey Wilson and R&D Studios The battle against waste and the fight for sustainability begins at home; this is what Jason Domangue discovered when he first decided to start ecofriendly soap brand Petal in 2019. With plastic being a major occupant of landfills and oceans, Petal is taking it upon themselves to be a part of the solution with their refillable soap products— reducing single bottle usage.

t

“Making sustainable choices can be intimidating,” says Domangue. It’s Petal’s mission to inspire individuals with their sustainability journey and small habits of cleanliness. “These small moments [put] together can lead to a groundswell of change.”

Renowned photographer and creative director Corey Wilson and Petal have teamed up to launch a collection of reusable bottles featuring his inspiring photography. “I don't think there are enough brands that are focused on saving the environment.

Petal is a prime example of the type of companies I am focused on aligning with moving forward,” says Wilson on his motivation in working with Petal.

“I have seen firsthand how plastic waste is affecting our planet. My hope with this partnership is that people will begin or continue to reduce the amount of plastic waste they emit,” says Wilson. Washing our hands is just the first step, and both Wilson and Domangue hope that they continue to create opportunities for people to make sustainable choices.

“My hope with this partnership is that people will begin or continue to reduce the amount of plastic waste they emit.” —Corey Wilson

u Corey Wilson Brand Ambassador + Photographer

PETAL www.withpetal.com @withpetal 64 LOCALE MAGAZINE

u

Full Bloom » Petal’s name relates to a flower’s wasteless ecosystem with pollinators— helping each other to grow and aligning perfectly with the company’s mission of sustainability.

Jason Domangue Owner of Petal

Squeaky Clean

Little Did You Know

» Petal’s eco-friendly soap pods are made from water-soluble film PVOH (polyvinyl alcohol), which is the material best known for laundry detergent pods.

» Soap and other personal care products result in over a half-billion plastic bottles in landfills and oceans every year. Petal’s goal is to make it easy to stop contributing to this waste.

shoppe /// guide

Style in Retrograde

San Diego

Eric Brown Jr. Founder of Backtrack Vintage

This Veteran-Owned Shop in San Diego Offers a Blast to the Past With Chic Vintage Apparel Written By: Aaron J. Pellot • Photographed By: John Trice

f

For Eric Brown Jr., founder of San Diego-based vintage shop Backtrack Vintage, classic apparel has always been something of interest. After his time in the Navy, Brown returned to San Diego to earn his degree. He notes, “There was nothing on my radar about stores [in San Diego] that sold vintage clothing…I had been interested in flipping things since my time as a sailor.”

Before officially launching in April 2019, Brown had done one event with no name, but he had a vision.

Brown states, “I sold at an event…I just had a booth and two racks from Ikea.”

After finding early success, he knew it was time to “brand this thing” and became an official Blackowned business in San Diego. Now in 2021, Brown, along with the periwinkle Backtrack bus, have been able to find success—he sold out of his merchandise multiple months during 2020 despite the challenges that the year presented.

Backtrack presents some of the coolest vintage clothing, from ‘90s Disney collections to Nike apparel

and more. You’ll also notice the theme of community, which is essential to Brown.

This isn’t just with how he collects pieces but how he engages with the San Diego community. You may find a Backtrack pop-up shop at local vintage record store Five Space, where he’s had residences in the past, or even at Venice Beach. Brown spoke to the importance of working locally, stating, “We have a lot of cool opportunities here in San Diego. If you’re truly in the community, opportunity will find you.”

In 2020, Backtrack created shirts with the labeling “Enough” and the names of Black lives who had been taken under police brutality, donating the proceeds to the Black Mental Health Alliance.

Especially under COVID, he recognizes what community and safety look like. “The responsibility is on us as shop owners…and we’re all in this together.” Brown assures, if you shop in person, you’ll have a safe experience.

Whether you are looking for a retro ‘90s concert T-shirt or some stylish Champion apparel, you’ll always find what you’re looking for at Backtrack Vintage.

“We have a lot of cool opportunities here in San Diego.

If you’re truly in the community, opportunity will find you.”

—Eric Brown Jr.

Sales That Support

» The Backtrack team released original merchandise for every collection in 2021 and has been able to donate a percentage of the sales to local organizations.

Makin’ It Mobile

» Brown was able to set himself apart from the competition early on by building his first shop inside an old school bus.

Backtrack’s the Name, Vintage Is the Game

» Brown left something at his house one day, and his nowfiancée said, “Now we gotta backtrack…That should be the store name!” This is how the name for his brand came to be.

BACKTRACK VINTAGE www.shopbacktrack.com @shopbacktrack

66 LOCALE MAGAZINE

shoppe /// guide

Kick Up Your Boots

Costa Mesa

Kim Owen Co-Owner of Landers Supply House and Liquor Bar

Stiff Drinks and Vintage Goods Are at the Heart of This Western Supply House and Liquor Bar Written By: Raphael Madrid Photographed By: Ari Moshayedi and Erik Hale

New to Town

» The new San Clemente location, which used to be an old aquarium, overlooks the beach, making it the perfect spot for lunch and some light shopping.

Chance and Kim Owen had one vision in mind when they started Landers in 2018—to take Costa Mesa’s historic surf culture and mix in the high desert’s western Americana flair to create a brand that was all their own. With a background in apparel, the two worked to develop an identity that was beyond the vintage goods they grew to be associated with.

While their Costa Mesa location boasts two separate storefronts between Landers Liquor Bar and Landers Supply House, their new 6,000-squarefoot location in San Clemente conveniently fuses the restaurant/ bar and retail store under one roof.

68 LOCALE MAGAZINE

LANDERS SUPPLY HOUSE AND LIQUOR BAR Costa Mesa, San Clemente www.landerssupplyhouse.com www.landersliquorbar.com

Step foot in the shop and you’ll find everything from retro tees and embroidered hats to denim jackets and pairs of vintage Western boots.

Yeehaw

» Western Wednesdays and other events at both

locations happen throughout the year, promoting the smallbusiness community.

Desert Roots

» Landers is named after the small high-desert town north of Joshua Tree where many open-road bikers are known to gather.

“I initially leased the space for Landers Supply House just so we could get more parking for the restaurant,” says Chance with a smile.

While Landers Supply House started out as a space for Chance’s print shop, with a corner for vintage goods sourced by Kim, they quickly had to adapt to the popularity that Kim’s vintage finds were garnering— transforming it into the in-house brand and retail shop it is today.

sales, yard sales and flea markets to fill up every nook and cranny at Landers. Step foot in the shop and you’ll find everything from retro tees and embroidered hats to denim jackets and pairs of vintage Western boots. And when the mood strikes for a stiff drink, Landers Liquor Bar pours up a mean Copperhead cocktail with Conciere gin, basil, thyme, cucumber, lime juice, simple syrup and Angostura bitters.

“I grew up in vintage... it’s been a natural fit for me,” Kim explains, regarding her background of growing up in her family’s vintage stores.

She draws inspiration from her travels throughout the US and sources her goods from various estate

Since Landers put its feet on the ground in Orange County, it’s truly become a staple in the community. Kim and Chance have created a space that promotes the grandeur of oneof-a-kind goods from yesteryear that will likely never go out of style.

shoppe /// guide

The CURE-All CURE Wellness Center Is Your One-Stop Shop for Health, Wellness and Beauty Written By: Kandace Cornell Photographed By: Jared Schlachet + Joe Magnani Model: Rachel Wolven, Brand Model & Talent, www.brandtalent.net

s

Since our most social season was essentially canceled last year, we’re all eager to make up for lost time. If you’re ready to live your best post-pandemic life but still aren’t quite looking (or feeling) your best, we’ve—quite literally—found the CURE. Nestled in the cliffs along the Malibu coastline, CURE Wellness Center is a one-stop shop for personal health and wellness, offering boutique medical services and top-of-the-line spa treatments with the ambiance of a luxury retreat. Looking for a laser treatment that will leave you glowing and refreshed? You’ve come to the right place.

Malibu

“Nestled in the cliffs along the Malibu coastline, CURE

Wellness Center is

Michael McCauley Co-Founder of Cure Wellness Center

a one-stop shop for

personal health and wellness, offering boutique medical

services and topof-the-line spa

treatments with

the ambiance of a luxury retreat.”

Check This Out » Designed to significantly improve skin texture and tone, Laser360 is a non-invasive approach to complete facial rejuvenation.

Using cutting-edge technology and a three-pronged clinical approach to target fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and hyperpigmentation, this FDA-approved laser treatment specifically treats delicate skin around the eyes, nose, mouth, neck, chest and 70 LOCALE MAGAZINE

forehead in just three sessions. “It’s a period of 60 days,” McCauley explains. “You’ll come in for three treatments during those 60 days, and we’ll space them out [to] about every two weeks.” Those three sessions will yield softer, smoother, clearer and more evenly textured skin.

The best part is that it’s accomplished with no recovery or downtime. You can even go back to work the same day!

Created by Experts » Co-created by Michael McCauley and Dr. Lisa Benya, CURE takes a comprehensive, concierge approach to overall personal health and wellness.

Equal parts clinical and luxurious—like a med spa with benefits—it’s a stateof-the-art, elite facility with relaxing spa music throughout and sweeping ocean views from the terrace lounge. “It’s a really patient-doctor inspired brand,” McCauley says. “We decided there’s a need for a company out there that’s about medical care and also talking to patients.

Whether it’s anxiety or plantar fasciitis, it’s really about having that expert who knows you and knows your health.”

Everyone Can Benefit » CURE offers membership access to a private medical team, nutritional coaching and mental health services, along with day spa amenities like deep tissue massages, cryotherapy and infrared saunas.

However, you don’t have to be a member to enjoy the spa and boutique aesthetic services like hair styling, facials, Botox, other injectables and— you guessed it—lasers.

Personalized for You » During your visit, the CURE team will create a custom procedure plan to achieve an optimal result based on your personal needs, leaving you feeling revitalized and ready to enjoy your summer glow up.

Everything You Can Imagine » “You can go into one room and see the doctor, psychiatrist or nutritionist; then go into another room and get your hair done or go to the spa,” McCauley says.

“They’re all accessible— with the ocean view.”

Join the Club » To reap all of the benefits of the CURE experience, it’s worth considering a Club CURE membership.

You’ll enjoy 20% off all services plus extra perks like 24/7 contact with the medical team, remote monitoring of your vitals with wearable devices, prescription refills and even house calls for convenient, at-home medical care and personal training.

CURE WELLNESS CENTER 22741 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, CA 90265 310.456.1458 www.curedaily.com

shoppe /// guide

Never Enough Plants

These Charming Plant Shops Will Help You Grow the Greenhouse of Your Dreams Written By: Kaylin Waizinger

y

You know you’ve truly reached adulthood when it’s Friday night and you decide to stay home...with your plants. But hey, your little green guys need attention too! And when it comes down to it, these leafy lovers enhance our living environment in significant ways—from improving our mood and reducing stress to purifying the air and more! So whether you’re a green-thumbed veteran or new plant parent, there’s no better time to grow your collection.

With that said, we’ve rounded up four of SoCal’s most charming botanical boutiques! These lush shops are so swoon-worthy that with just one visit, you’re destined to adopt at least one more fiddle-leaf fig friend.

1

1

 Style Your Space

1 » With two enchanting San Diego locations, it’s no wonder Landmark Plant Co. is deemed one of the cutest spots to buy your greens. Both of the North County nurseries double as gift shops, so guests can not only pick out new plants, but browse an assortment of goodies too! With wellness products like everyday oils and vegan lip butter to home goods like greeting cards, candles and tea towels, Landmark is a one-stop shop!

LANDMARK PLANT CO. Leucadia, Oceanside | www.landmarkplantco.com | @landmarkplantco 72 LOCALE MAGAZINE

» Looking to spruce up your home or office? Landmark provides plant styling and design services that can take your space from blah to wow!

The shop’s plant experts will work with you to bring your leafy dreams to life—it’s that simple!

Love and Care

» If you have trouble keeping your plants happy and healthy, Landmark offers a plant maintenance program so you can sit back, relax and watch ‘em grow. Leave the watering, fertilizing and pruning to the pros!

1

2

3

» At the core of every great nursery is a thriving community—and Mellowist is just that.

Founder DJ Aleman opened the shop with intentions of fostering a community of like-minded people who have their “hands in the earth and head in the clouds.” This little urban oasis puts out good energy with their vibrant storefront and unique collection of cacti, succulents and handcrafted pottery. Explore the oddities of this funky Costa Mesa shop and take home a new potted pal!

» Leafy palms, mini cacti and suspended pothos are just a few of the gorgeous greens you’ll find at this Long Beach shop. With a rustic brick exterior and floor-to-ceiling windows, passersby of Peacock & Co. can catch a glimpse of the beauty inside. Owner Stephanie Saharopulos designs and curates potted displays and botanical wares that give her shop an aesthetic that’ll have you smitten. Shop around and discover a variety of species housed in everything from funky ceramic pots and wooden crates to hanging macrame holders and glass terrariums.

Peacock & Co. is a little slice of heaven that’ll no doubt turn your thumb green.

MELLOWIST PLANT LIFE 2968 Randolph Ave Costa Mesa, CA 92626 www.mellowist.com @mellowist

Newbies Welcome

Books to Beats to Greens

» Prior to owning her own plant shop, Saharopulos worked as retail manager at Barnes & Noble and for a brief time, pursued a career as a full-time DJ. It’s safe to say her resume runs the gamut!

3

» All the varieties available at Peacock & Co. are “starter plants,” so even the newest of plant parents can transform their living space into the jungle of their dreams.

Peacock & Co. is a little slice of heaven that’ll no doubt turn your thumb green.

PEACOCK & CO. 306 Cerritos Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802 www.wearepeacockandco.com | @peacockandcompany

Shop It All

» Mellowist also sells a selection of plantthemed magazines, sew-on patches and trendy apparel like graphic tees, hoodies, hats and crewnecks.

Mellowist State of Mind

At the core of every great nursery is a thriving community—and Mellowist is just that.

» Aleman has deep roots in the action sports industry, working for over 20 years at Hurley, Nike, Billabong, Rip Curl and more. Mellowist serves as his escape, helping him unplug and be present.

4 Meet the Makers

4

Photos: Peacock & Co.: Stephanie Saharopulos | Mellowist Plant Life: Demetrio Aleman and Brianna Nakatani | Landmark Plant Co.: Tomoko H. Matsubayashi | Acme 5 Lifestyle

4 » Boho bliss meets midcentury madness at this indoor-outdoor furniture shop and nursery. The Acme 5 brand fuses art with nature to cultivate an authentic and earthy retail experience. At each of the shop’s three locations, you’ll find everything from aloe trees and teak furniture to nifty artisan decor. Pop in and browse through Acme’s thriving nursery and experience the dreamy desert vibes for yourself!

2

ACME 5 LIFESTYLE San Pedro, Santa Monica, Yucca Valley www.acme5lifestyle.com @acme5lifestyle

» Acme proudly features handcrafted objects from artisans near and far. Think candles and ceramics from Joshua Tree, blankets from Mexico, cactus silk pillows from Morocco and more!

Day in the Desert

» Acme’s Yucca Valley location, also known as their “Hi-Desert Outpost,” is especially good for furniture shopping.

Each item is staged into living vignettes, making it easy to visualize the pieces in your own space.

LOCALE MAGAZINE 73

Wear Your Story

San Clemente

This Local Jewelry Company Uses Metals to Create Meaning “I always say, the day we start selling jewelry is the day we should all find other jobs.”

Written By: Kandace Cornell

h

How it started: two sisters wanted to embark on a mission of purpose, empowerment and sustainable change. How it’s going: six years and (almost) five kids later, Hillary O’Modhrain and Danielle Johnson co-helm Our Spare Change—a jewelry collection that’s about so much more than jewelry—from their office base in San Clemente.

Their staff of nine includes an array of female artisans, each with a uniquely powerful story to tell.

“We said, ‘What if we could create jewelry that was affordable but also could tell people’s stories?’”

O’Modrhain explains.

During a post-college holiday road trip, with a handful of spare coins between them, the sisters were inspired to create a mixed-metal collection of statement jewelry centered around loose coins, encouraging

customers to request custom words with personal value.

Hearing individual stories from buyers prompted the two to expand their outreach and hire craftspeople with a background of hardship— including their first employee, who was recently released from jail when hired.

—Hillary O'Modhrain

“We love the idea that everyone has a story, and at some point in every story, there’s a struggle,” says Johnson. “It’s really important that we have people [working] here who have been through all kinds of hardship, so that we’re able to provide stability and a safe space for them to work.”

Never losing sight of their mission, the brand now includes capsule collections and pieces for children. “It’s about storytelling,” says O’Modhrain. “I always say, the day we start selling jewelry is the day we should all find other jobs.”

Beyond the Bling

» Our Spare Change also makes an adorable medley of keychains, brass bookmarks, custom pendants and men’s tie bars!

Danielle Johnson and Hillary O’Modhrain Owners of Our Spare Change

“We love the idea that everyone has a story, and at some point in every story, there’s a struggle.”

—Danielle Johnson OUR SPARE CHANGE www.oursparechange.com @oursparechange

74 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Photography By: Morgan Arzich Photography, EMJEANPHOTO & Sheila Nolt

shoppe /// guide

With pollution, waste and carbon emissions, the fashion industry has an extremely negative impact on the environment. Gina Stovall, founder of Two Days Off, started her career as a scientist working on climate change and soon learned about the impact the fashion industry has on people and the planet. Stovall created Two Days Off, a carbon-neutral fashion company where sustainability exists at its core, to provide a more ethical clothing option. “The emissions

it’s cool to care Two Days Off Creates Sustainable and Ethically Made Fashion Staples Written By: Taylor Gorski

we do emit as we make our garments are completely offset by projects that remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.

We also pay close attention to how and what we source to minimize negative impact,” Stovall explains. Each clothing item is designed to wear hundreds of times and is made with sustainable, natural fibers that are biodegradable.

“The best way for anyone to reduce their environmental footprint is to consume mindfully and use what they already have!”

Stovall says.

TWO DAYS OFF www.twodaysoff.com | @twodaysoffclothing

“The emissions we do emit as we make our garments are completely offset by projects that remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.”

Do Better

» Two Days Off clothing is made locally, in small batches in Los Angeles. “We have built a small but mighty team of creatives, entrepreneurs and artisans who all get paid a fair wage and whose talents are cherished. What people should know is that beautiful clothing doesn’t have to come at the cost of workers’ livelihoods or dignity—nor at the cost of our planet,” Stovall explains.

—GINA STOVALL

Less Is More

» Oftentimes, following trends results in buying fast fashion items.

Instead, opt for buying betterquality pieces that will last for years to come. Two Days Off is here to help you accomplish that. “We want to create a sense of ease with timeless and ethically made pieces that allow you to live your life with less fuss,” says Stovall.

“The best way for anyone to reduce their environmental footprint is to consume mindfully and use what they already have!”

—GINA STOVALL

76 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Photography Provided By: Olivia Lopez @summerbluescollective | Benjamin Holtrop | Two Days Off

w

shoppe /// guide

shoppe /// guide Roaming Travelers Signature Scent Candle » “We use notes of smoke and sandalwood to create the base with an amber undertone. Chelsea and I grew up on the East Coast, so any reminiscence of seasons puts a smile on our face.”

Roaming Travelers | $25 Joshua Tree

u Andrew and Chelsea Evans Owners of Roaming Travelers

New Frontier Western Boot » “Perfect for your weekend getaway and stylish enough for a formal event, these white patent leather ankle boots from Free People scream ‘Take me to the desert!’

We’re happy to carry a mixed line of their merchandise in both of our locations.”

Free People | $148

Herringbone Beach Towel » “These elegant hand-woven towels are made from 100% premium cotton and designed by our San Diego friends, EKZO. They are lightweight, making them the perfect carry-along size for an outdoor date night.”

EKZO | $42

Saturday Swimwear Bikini » “These eco-friendly, sustainable swimsuits are made with 78% regenerated nylon rescued from industrial waste and ocean debris.

Saturday Swimwear is a small, womenowned business that we can not speak more highly of as we continue to strive towards our goal of carrying more ecofriendly products.”

Saturday Swimwear | $110 Set, $50 Top, $60 Bottom

ROAMING TRAVELERS 61877 Twentynine Palms Hwy Joshua Tree, CA 92252 73515 Twentynine Palms Hwy Twentynine Palms, CA 92277 www.roamingtravelers.com @roamingtravelers

Roam, Sweet Roam Roaming Travelers Inspires Wanderlust With Its Sweet Desert Boutiques Written By: Jordan Nishkian

Inspired by their favorite travels, Andrew and Chelsea Evans have created a stunning boutique full of items that exude adventure and wonder. And while the shop stirs up daydreams of faraway lands, you can’t help but feel their love for their home away from roam: the high desert.

78 LOCALE MAGAZINE

River Guatemalan Palm Hat » “Crafted with exotic Guatemalan palm straw and hand-shaped in Texas, the River is a sturdy, natural-colored straw hat [that] offers amazing sun protection— perfect for the desert!”

Gigi Pip | $178

Photos - Andrew and Chelsea Evans: Kasey Winder | Candle, Swimsuit, T-Shirt & Cocktail Kits/Jars: Roaming Travelers | Towel: EKZO | Hat: Gigi Pip | Boots: Free People

Desert Dreamer T-Shirt » “Our top-selling T-shirt is available in white, ivory and pink. It brings to life the magic of desert sunsets!”

Roaming Travelers | $38

Camp Craft Cocktail Kit » “Available in various flavors, these easyto-make craft cocktails are carefully curated to include natural and dehydrated ingredients that make the perfect gift or purchase for any occasion.

Add your own spirits overnight or even just hot water for a zeroproof option.”

Camp Craft Cocktails | $25

shoppe /// guide

Grab Your Bag...

We’re Going Shopping

Del Mar

These Luxury Lifestyle Centers Are a Breath of Fresh Air Illustrated By: Vicente Martí Solar

L

Let’s be real—there isn’t much a little retail therapy can’t fix. No matter where you find yourself, there’s always a place to spend that stimulus check. From the sunny city of Manhattan Beach to the “Rodeo Drive” of Palm Desert, we’ve mapped out four of our favorite lifestyle destinations that go beyond your average trip to the mall. These upscale centers offer everything you need for the perfect summer day. And remember, if the shoes fit, buy ‘em.

10 a.m.

Enjoy a bangin’ breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery. www.snoozeeatery.com

11:30 a.m.

Del Mar Daycation Spend a Day in Del Mar and Experience the Delights of This OpenAir Center

Stop by Daisy Blue for some chic summer apparel. www.prettypleasecollective.com

Noon Catch a flick at Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas. www.cinepolisusa.com

2:30 p.m.

Visit the new Sky Deck for a palate-pleasing lunch.

www.delmarhighlandstowncenter.com

3:30 p.m.

Snag a scoop at Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream. www.handelsicecream.com

DEL MAR HIGHLANDS TOWN CENTER 12925 El Camino Real San Diego, CA 92130 858.793.5757 www.delmarhighlandstowncenter.com

80 LOCALE MAGAZINE

shoppe /// guide Long Beach

2nd

st

Long Beach Leisure Head to This Hip Lifestyle Center in Long Beach for a Much-Needed “Me Day”

Pacific Coast Hyw 9 a.m.

Get in a morning sweat sesh at Barry’s Bootcamp. www.barrys.com

10:15 a.m.

Refuel with an artisanal espresso from Caffe Luxxe. www.caffeluxxe.com

11 a.m.

Pamper yourself with a facial from SkinSpirit. www.skinspirit.com

Noon Enjoy a plant-based meal at Hungry Angelina.

www.matthewkenneycuisine.com/ hungry-angelina

1:30 p.m.

Spruce up your space with a few plants from Penelope Pots. www.shoppenelopepots.com

2ND & PCH 6400 E Pacific Coast Hwy Long Beach, CA 90803 424.217.2337 www.2ndandpch.com

Illustrated By: Vicente Martí Solar 82 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Illustrated By: Vicente Martí Solar

shoppe /// guide

Sunny in South Bay

El Segundo

This Vibrant El Segundo Center Is the Perfect Place to Spend a Sunday

9 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

1 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

Feel the beat with a heart-pumping SoulCycle class.

Rejuvenate with a refreshing juice from Pressed Juicery.

Treat yourself to a new pair of leggings from Lululemon.

Dine at Tocaya Organica, and indulge in Mexican food without the guilt.

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a trip to Van Leeuwen Ice Cream.

www.soul-cycle.com 84 LOCALE MAGAZINE

www.pressedjuicery.com

shop.lululemon.com

www.tocayaorganica.com

www.vanleeuwenicecream.com

THE POINT 850 S Pacific Coast Hwy El Segundo, CA 90245 310.414.5280 www.thepointsb.com

Illustrated By: Vicente Martí Solar

shoppe /// guide

Palm Desert

El Paseo Elegance This Desert Village Is Home to Two Snazzy Steakhouses and All Sorts of Luxury Shops

2:30 p.m.

Level 1

Pick out the perfect summer swimsuit at Trina Turk. www.trinaturk.com

3 p.m.

Spruce up your home with an original oil painting from von Wening Fine Art Gallery. www.artbymax.com

4 p.m.

Head upstairs for an islandinspired cocktail at Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar.

www.tommybahama.com/restaurants

5:30 p.m.

Bring home some bling with a trip to Tiffany & Co. www.tiffany.com

7 p.m.

Treat yourself to a swanky dinner at Pacifica Seafood Restaurant. www.pacificaseafoodrestaurant.com

THE GARDENS ON EL PASEO 73545 El Paseo Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.862.1990 www.thegardensonelpaseo.com 86 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Level 2

PHOTO BY: Kambria Fischer • SNAKE OIL COCKTAIL COMPANY www.snakeoilcocktail.com | @snakeoilcocktail MILAGRO TEQUILA www.milagrotequila.com | @milagrotequila JULEP VENUE www.julepvenue.com | @julepvenue

foodie June 2021 /// fresh. spirited. flavorful.

San Diego

100

Taste the Rainbow Sip Your Way Through Summer With These Refreshing Cocktail Creations Feature

LOCALE MAGAZINE 89

foodie /// living like a local

Honey, Let’s Cook!

This Youtuber, Creator, Cookbook Author and Mom Shares Her SoCal Favorites

Los Angeles NAME: Dzung Lewis JOB TITLE: Youtuber, Creator of Honeysuckle

3 FAVORITE RECIPES TO MAKE AT HOME:

RESIDENT OF: Los Angeles

1. Kimchi mac and cheese from my cookbook, “The Honeysuckle Cookbook” 2. Smoothies (a great way to sneak veggies in for the kids!)

3. Air fryer green goddess “roasted” chicken

LOCAL LIVING: 3.5 years

GET YOUR GREENS

My dream is to grow my own culinary garden, and though I’ve never worked with them, I am a patron at Armstrong Garden Center—their employees are some of the best people! They’re always super supportive of my black thumb and make me feel like I can actually garden!

A DAY IN THE LIFE

Ò I create content to help busy moms like me try to think of ideas to help make meals delicious yet easy for the family.

I’m constantly being asked what I feed my kids, and we honestly feed them the same thing we eat, just in smaller portions and maybe a little less seasoned. I want to show that you don’t have to be a shortorder cook for your picky eaters, and introducing them to a variety of foods will help them become better eaters and make your life easier too!

HONEYSUCKLE www.dzunglewis.com www.youtube.com/honeysuckle @honeysuckle

www.youtube.com/honeysuckle

HOW WE ROLL

Ò We love sushi! Without fail, whenever we crave it, we order from Shiki Sushi in Studio City. Their crispy rice tuna is our favorite, but I have yet to try a roll that I didn’t like. The asahi roll comes in a very close second place, as it’s one that I always order too! www.myshikisushi.com

90 LOCALE MAGAZINE

AWAY FROM LA

Ò Newport Beach is one of our favorite places to head to when we need a quick getaway from LA. It’s family-friendly, there are plenty of places to eat and spots for the kids to be entertained. One of the restaurants that we always visit is Brodard Restaurant; they have the best grilled pork spring rolls. www.brodardrestaurant.net

DINNER EXPERIENCE

Ò We love a good Korean BBQ, and Baekjeong in Koreatown never disappoints. My daughter watches in awe as the food is being cooked at the table (we don’t let her touch the hot tools), and it’s always fun to enjoy the banchan (side dishes) as we wait for the food! www.baekjeongktown.com

TO THE ‘BU

Ò We love taking day trips to the beach and recently discovered Zuma Beach in Malibu. It’s a huge stretch, and there’s always ample parking available. Before hitting the beach, we always stop by a nearby plaza and visit our favorite cafes, including Le Cafe de la Plage Malibu, Sunlife Organics and Lily’s. www.lecafedelaplagemalibu.com | sunlifeorganics.com | lilysmalibu.com

Photography Provided By: Honeysuckle | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar

“Support each other—and when the going gets tough, especially in the work that we do, keep pushing on and reinvent your ideas, so it’s both refreshing for the viewers and gets you out of the creative slump!”

foodie /// living like a local

NOLA to North Park The Chef at San Diego’s Louisiana Purchase Offers Up His Favorite Places for Whisky Cocktails, Smoked Meats and Self-Care North Park NAME: Quinnton Austin JOB TITLE: Culinary Director of Louisiana Purchase

3 MUST-TRY DISHES AT LOUISIANA PURCHASE:

RESIDENT OF: San Diego

1. Alligator Andouille Cheesecake 2. Crawfish Monica Ribeye 3. Spicy Chicken Skillet

LOCAL LIVING: 2 years

COMMUNITY LOVE

In San Diego, there is a willingness to come together and support one another. The city is also an incredible mixing pot, and there are surprisingly a lot of southerners here!

“I love the fact that I’m the ‘Louisiana’ in Louisiana Purchase SD. I love connecting with the community and bringing smiles to people’s faces.”

HOMETOWN GETAWAY

LOUISIANA PURCHASE 2305 University Ave San Diego, CA 92104 619.255.8278 www.louisianapurchasesd.com

www.omnihotels.com/hotels/san-diego

SHOW YOUR SKIN SOME LOVE

Ò When it comes to showing love to local businesses, I support them all.

One of my favorites is The Formula Skin Lab. Being in the kitchen for so long, my face gets greasy, so I enlist the help of Stephanie J. She’s a pro when it comes to skincare! @formulaskinlabsd

92 LOCALE MAGAZINE

MEAT AND GREET

Ò I love steaks and BBQ, so my go-to spots in San Diego are Cowboy Star and Bowlegged BBQ. Cowboy Star has a Wagyu skirt steak that melts in your mouth, and Bowlegged is an East Texasstyle spot with insanely good ribs! If you call yourself a meat-eater, these two places are a carnivore’s heaven. www.bowleggedbbq.com

IN GOOD FASHION

Ò When I’m craving a really good cocktail, Cowboy Star in East Village gets me everytime. This restaurant and butcher shop serves up American cuisine with a Western flare, and they make a mean old fashioned with Cognac. Not to mention, the steaks are buku flavorful. www.cowboystar.com

FELLOW CHEF SHOUTOUT

Ò There are so many great chefs in San Diego, but Chef Brad Wise of Trust Restaurant Group has to be one of the best. He owns four restaurants! The growth I’ve seen from other chefs is also amazing, such as personal chef Kelston Moore as well as my guy Chef DuVal Warner of Ranch 45. @badboyzofculinary

Photographed By: Kambria Fischer | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar

Ò When I need a mini vacation, I love Omni San Diego Hotel. It’s located right next to Petco Park in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, and to be honest, I think it’s the incredible view that gets me. I’ve only stayed here once, and it was when I first came to San Diego. The property is beautiful and helped clear my mind.

foodie /// get the deets

Breakfast at TIFFANY ’S SIP PRETTY AT TIFFANY’S IN COSTA MESA’S SOUTH COAST PLAZA WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: TIFFANY & CO.

Whether you can quote every line from the 1961 film or you simply enjoy the classics, you can now cross “Eat breakfast at Tiffany’s” off of your bucket list! Tucked away in South Coast Plaza’s recently relocated Tiffany & Co., Tiffany’s Blue Box Cafe is serving up exquisite bites for its Breakfast for Two and Tea for Two menus. And with the rest of the jewelry shop’s beautiful changes, this cafe is the perfect way to start (or end!) a sparkly shopping spree.

You can now cross “Eat breakfast at Tiffany’s” off of your bucket list!

Costa Mesa

(Almost) Too Beautiful to Eat • As to be expected, anything presented

by Tiffany’s Blue Box Cafe is sure to be aesthetically gorgeous, and this includes the cafe’s signature packages. Currently, the cafe offers a colorful and locally sourced breakfast package (with or without gluten) and a tea package packed with delightful bites and a truly unique Blue Box Celebration Cake. And if you think food tastes better on a Tiffany’s plate—because let’s face it, it really does—you can upgrade and order a package that includes the accompanying China set.

It’s in the Details • Tiffany & Co. has always had a penchant for detail, so it’s no surprise that the retailer is going the extra mile for its cafe guests. One of these special features is the wrapping station inside the Blue Box Cafe—a true celebration of the company’s long-standing tradition of gift-giving.

Within these pretty blue walls, shoppers can also find a personalization counter where they can add extra sentiment to their items with customized engravings.

These special touches create a bridge between the dining and shopping experiences.

From Coast to Coast

• What’s better than one Blue Box Cafe?

Two Blue Box Cafes!

Tiffany & Co.’s first cafe opened in its flagship store on Fifth Ave in NYC but is currently closed for revamping. The New York store is slated to reopen in 2022.

“I’d Rather Be Natural”

• It’s no secret that mining for precious natural resources— especially diamonds—has taken a toll on our planet, which is why Tiffany & Co. upholds its commitment to only work with sustainable and responsibly mined materials.

The World Is Your Oyster

A Treat for the Eyes

F

From the moment you walk into Tiffany & Co.’s new space, you’re greeted with a grand juxtaposition of familiarity and innovation. The store is detailed with classic Wheat Leaf designs as well as a stunning

94 LOCALE MAGAZINE

mural by Yoon Hyup, which echoes the shapes and hues of our California landscape.

Once inside the cafe, you’re surrounded by luxe materials, and you’ll also get your fix of that signature blue we all know and love; it’s on the walls, chairs and even the tableware.

• South Coast Plaza’s new Tiffany & Co. store boasts an impressive retail area of about 12,000 square feet—almost double the size of its previous location!

THE BLUE BOX CAFE 3333 Bristol St Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.540.5330 tiffany.com/blue-boxcafe

foodie /// profile “The idea was that Cesarina is a woman, daughter, mother and grandmother who nurtures the community the same way she would her own family…”

—Niccolò Angius

Ciao Down How This Italian Chef Has Made Point Loma the Premier Destination for Fresh-Made Pasta

96 LOCALE MAGAZINE

WRITTEN BY: BIANCA KASAWDISH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: ARLENE IBARRA, JAMES TRAN & SAM WELLS @SWELLSCREATIVE

"

“I like to look at traditional recipes and incorporate parts of them when creating new dishes. I aim to add a personal touch.”

Cesarina Mezzoni

Chef and Owner of Cesarina Ristorante

CESARINA RISTORANTE 4161 Voltaire St San Diego, CA 92107 619.226.6222 www.cesarinarestaurant.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 97

foodie /// profile

If you’ve ever found yourself nestled in the sticky booth of an Olive Garden, you’ve likely experienced a deep, deep feeling of disappointment. Now don’t get us wrong, there is nothing wrong with an occasional breadstick craving...but we’re not here to shed light on Italian mediocrity (no offense, Olive Garden).

If you call yourself an Italian cuisine connoisseur (or San Diego local for that matter), then you already know the magic of Point Loma’s Cesarina Ristorante. Run by husband- andwife team, Cesarina Mezzoni and Niccolò Angius, this freshpasta concept had humble beginnings. What started as meek ambitions and a love for fresh pasta quickly sprouted into a bustling trattoria with a kitchen that oozes Italian hospitality.

M

Cesarina Ristorante was born in February 2019, honoring the Italian matriarchy within its rooted mission: to create a convivial atmosphere that nurtures the community as a mother would. “The idea was that Cesarina is a woman, daughter, mother and grandmother who nurtures the community the same way she would her own family. Cesarina Mezzoni, our chef and my partner, is the person who inspired this unique concept,” says Angius.

The restaurant offers a lineup of daily fresh-made pastas, Italian entrees, vegan options and housemade desserts, updating the menu twice a year based on freshness, availability and seasonality.

Guests can experience the pasta made daily in the open-air pastificio, where the dishes come full circle. Aside from the exceptional quality of food, the elevated ambiance is what draws visitors in— beautiful booths, a bright, open space and a charming, lush garden patio.

On bringing their mission to life, Mezzoni shares that they wanted their guests to take part in the whole pasta experience from start to finish, which is why showing the pasta-making was important to them. “When we opened, we decided to create a glassed-in exhibition station where we can make fresh pasta, so we can show our guests the process behind our menu. It’s not only about fresh pasta, but how fresh pasta is made,” she explains.

Before the pandemic, a tableside dessert service was offered where guests could 98 LOCALE MAGAZINE

• According to Mezzoni and Angius, the most rewarding part of their job is working with loyal patrons.

They’ve really found a “sweet spot” in their beloved Point Loma neighborhood.

witness sweet delicacies being made right in front of them. “We’ve noticed a lot of our guests would stop by, engage and ask questions at our restaurant, especially when it came to our tableside desserts. The fact that people can see the freshness of the product right in front of them, along with the knowledge of the staff and what they can bring to the table, is unique,” says Angius.

Mezzoni shares she has always loved both cooking and eating, which is where her passion to open a successful restaurant stemmed from. “My mom has also been a mentor to me; she always cooked for us in our house—lunch and dinner every day. I definitely got this passion from her,” she says. Taking traditional recipes up a notch, Mezzoni makes each dish her own, paying homage to all of her favorite Italian recipes. “I like to look at traditional recipes and incorporate parts of them when creating new dishes. I aim to add a personal touch,” she says.

The ethos and mission of Cesarina will soon expand even further. The team recently announced another location just across the street: a pizzeria called Angelo, which includes a production center that will allow them to produce fresh pasta, sauces and other baked goods—not to mention a full-service catering business. The pizzeria will offer a revisited and new take on traditional Napoletana pizzas that Cesarina already offers. Similar to Cesarina’s pastitico, Angelo will also bring people behind the scenes with an open-air cheese factory where guests can watch them make different cheeses, from creamy mozzarella to soft burrata.

Part of the expansion will also include a cake factory, Le Torte di Cesarina, which will offer eight to 10 different traditional Italian cakes. From weddings to birthdays, made-to-order cakes will be available to celebrate any occasion. The expansion is set to open in early 2022.

But as for Chef Mezzoni, her passion for creating innovative Italian cuisine continues—leveling up the San Diego culinary scene one pile of pasta at a time.

Stuffed With Love • Chef Mezzoni’s favorite dish to make is ravioli with ricotta and spinach.

It’s simple, but she loves making fresh pasta. “The best part about ravioli is that it’s good with a variety of different fillings,” she says.

Feels like Famiglia

• With the love between Mezzoni and her husband and their special relationships with guests, the restaurant and team feels like family to her.

"

Mezzoni and Angius moved from Rome to San Diego in 2015 with a clear vision in mind: to open their own restaurant. From humble beginnings of working in farmers markets around San Diego selling their fresh-made pasta, they worked to make their dream a reality.

Mezzoni made the decision to go back to Italy and attend culinary school, studying to become both a chef and pastry chef in just three months. With professional schooling and experience under her belt, she then returned to San Diego to open Cesarina Ristorante.

For the Community

“My mom has also been a mentor to me; she always cooked for us in our house—lunch and dinner every day. I definitely got this passion from her.”—Chef Mezzoni

foodie /// feature

CALIFORNIA MARGARITA

t h e e t R s a i a n w b o T CANTARIO TWIST

VALLEY SUNSET MARGARITA

MARIPOSA SOUR

TANGO

Sip Your Way Through Summer With These Refreshing Cocktail Creations WRITTEN BY: KAYLIN WAIZINGER PHOTOGRAPHED BY: KAMBRIA FISCHER STYLED BY: LAUREN LEWELLEN

100 LOCALE MAGAZINE

There’s something about sunshine and a warm summer breeze that puts us in an on-the-rocks kinda mood. Whether it’s hosting a sunset soiree or mixing up some margs for a backyard BBQ, the glass is always half full. So to spark some cocktail creativity, we turned to the pros at Snake Oil Cocktail Co.—San Diego’s premier boutique beverage catering and mixology firm. Since its inception, Snake Oil has continued to raise the bar with fresh ingredients, innovative concoctions and artful presentations.

Here are five summer sips, made with smooth Milagro Tequila, that’ll help you beat the heat!

SNAKE OIL COCKTAIL COMPANY 1735 Hancock St, Ste D San Diego, CA 92101 858.754.9173 www.snakeoilcocktail.com @snakeoilcocktail MILAGRO TEQUILA www.milagrotequila.com @milagrotequila Photoshoot Location: JULEP VENUE 1735 Hancock St San Diego, CA 92101­ 619.754.4041 www.julepvenue.com @julepvenue LOCALE MAGAZINE 101

foodie /// feature

GARNISHES YOU’LL NEED:

DRINK NAME:

TANGO

» Edible Flowers » Dehydrated Orange Wheel » Orange Creamsicle » Grapefruit Wedge » Daisies » Edible White Mum » Dehydrated Grapefruit Wheel » Sprig of Mint

INGREDIENTS: » 1½ oz Milagro Silver Tequila » 2 oz Mango Puree » ¾ oz Lemon Juice » ½ oz Passion Fruit Puree » 1 oz Mint Syrup

RECIPE: » Combine all ingredients in a shaker tin with ice; shake thoroughly. Strain over a large ice cube in an old fashioned glass.

Garnish with edible flowers and enjoy!

BREAK OUT THE SHAKER » Practice your mixology skills at home! Visit Snake Oil’s website and browse their selection of fresh craft cocktail mixers and premium spirits, then place your order online for pickup!

102 LOCALE MAGAZINE

DRINK NAME:

CALIFORNIA MARGARITA INGREDIENTS: » 1½ oz Milagro Añejo Tequila » 2 oz Orange Juice » ½ oz Oat Milk » ½ oz Orange Peel Oleo

RECIPE: » Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake. Strain over an old fashioned glass with ice; garnish with an orange creamsicle and a dehydrated orange wheel.

MAKING IT PERSONAL » “When it comes to our cocktail graffiti, it’s all about impact and creating lasting memories with guests and bar patrons,” says Michael C. Esposito, co-founder and managing partner of Snake Oil Cocktail Company.

“The flavor of each drink is designed in advance to compliment the edible sugar works floating on the top of the drink, and the creations are specifically designed to be light, airy and served ice-cold.”

LOCALE MAGAZINE 103

foodie /// feature

DRINK NAME:

CANTARIO TWIST DRINK NAME:

VALLEY SUNSET MARGARITA

INGREDIENTS: » 1½ oz Milagro Silver Tequila » ½ oz Lime Juice » 1 oz Lemon Juice » 1 oz Grapefruit Juice » 1 oz Simple Syrup

INGREDIENTS: » 1½ oz Milagro Silver Tequila » 2 oz Prickly Pear Puree » ¾ oz Lemon Juice » 1 oz Chipotle Chili Syrup

RECIPE: » Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake. Strain over a highball glass with ice, and garnish with a grapefruit wedge and a side of daisies.

RECIPE: » Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake.

Strain over a margarita glass rimmed with white chocolate.

Finally, garnish with a sprig of mint!

Whether it’s hosting a sunset soiree or mixing up some margs for a backyard BBQ, the glass is always half full.

104 LOCALE MAGAZINE

DRINK NAME:

MARIPOSA SOUR DEDICATED TO THE CRAFT » Snake Oil Cocktail Co. is founded on a “culinary mixology” approach to the craft of cocktails. “For us, mixology is more about what kind of creativity and innovation is happening in the kitchen than what is happening at the bar,” says Esposito. “We fundamentally start with fresh culinary ingredients which are specifically chosen to enhance, compliment and bring out the flavor and characteristic of each spirit in an unexpected way.”

INGREDIENTS: » 1½ oz Milagro Reposado Tequila » 1 oz Simple Syrup » 1 oz Butterfly Tea Water » ½ oz Grapefruit Juice » 1 oz Aquafaba

RECIPE: » Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake. Strain over an old fashioned glass with no ice; garnish with edible white mum, a dehydrated grapefruit wheel and a sprig of mint.

LOCALE MAGAZINE 105

LO CA L I N S I G H T:

foodie /// 2 things we love

1

Dana Point

• “I remember the first time I had chicken and waffles at Roscoe’s,” Chef Mellgren shares. “We lean a little Southern here anyway...just doing it our way.”

FRIED CHICKEN A N D WA F F L E

I

It’s a simple fact of life: brunch makes everything better, especially when that brunch is full of gluttonous, cheat-day-worthy dishes. After a year like 2020—we all deserve a special treat, so why not commence the celebrations at Craft House? Tucked on PCH right next to Dana Point’s Lantern District, Craft House is known for its relaxed vibes, friendly atmosphere and irresistible menu. And with these two comfort food classics, Owner and Executive Chef Blake Mellgren is eager to fill bellies and lift spirits with classic brunch dishes.

• With crispy, succulent fried chicken and a thick, fluffy ricotta waffle, it’s no wonder that these two are a match made in heaven.

But what really ties it all together is the chili honey butter. “It makes the dish even more gluttonous than it is in the first place,” Chef Mellgren notes.

THAT’S NEAT Fried Chicken and Waffle Ingredients: • Flour • Ricotta Cheese • Egg • Sugar • Chicken Thigh • Secret Flour + Spice Mix • Buttermilk • Butter • Sambal • Honey

All Signs Point to Brunch

• Craft House boasts over 160 bottles of whiskey, bourbon and rye. Due to their rarity, the bottles on the allocated whiskey menu are enjoyed in single-ounce pours.

They come from all around the world and can impress even the most scrutinous whiskey aficionado.

2

COMMUNITY FIRST • A born-and-raised OC local himself, Chef Mellgren is all about the local community. He has participated in MaxLove Project’s annual Farm to Fork Dinner, a farmto-table fundraiser for families facing childhood cancer, and in 2017, he won The Ecology Center’s Eco App Off with delicious Mexican street corn.

FEED YOUR HEART AND SOUL WITH CRAFT HOUSE’S SAVORY BRUNCH STAPLES WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: MARIVIC DIVINA

MAINTAINING MOTHER NATURE

CHILE VERDE C H I L AQ U I L E S

• “If you’re coming in here for brunch, you better not plan on doing activities,” Chef Mellgren laughs.

“We’re gonna get you drunk, get you full and get you back to bed.”

One of his favorite brunch-day binges is the chilaquiles with tender pork shoulder, runny eggs and refreshing salsa verde.

106 LOCALE MAGAZINE

LO CA L I N S I G H T:

• Enjoy your sunnyside-up eggs with a dose of sunshine on Craft House’s newly expanded outdoor patio!

Chile Verde Chilaquiles Ingredients: • Pork Shoulder • Tomatillo • Poblano • Garlic • Onion • Micro Cilantro • Chile Verde • Avocado Crema • Cotija Cheese • Tortilla Chips • Sunny-Side-Up Egg

• Sustainability is big for Chef Mellgren.

Whenever possible, he sources ingredients from local farms and fishermen. “The way I think about food is: let’s give our customers the best product,” he explains. “The best product is going to come straight from the farm or straight out of the water.”

CRAFT HOUSE 34094 Pacific Coast Hwy Dana Point, CA 92629 949.481.7734 eatatcrafthouse.com

foodie /// profile

You Can Sip With Us Westside Costa Mesa’s Natural Wine Bar Is Pouring Up a Good Time WRITTEN BY: TAYLOR GORSKI PHOTOGRAPHED BY: AKIN ODEBUNMI & JACH MCKEOWN

108 LOCALE MAGAZINE

“Wine is meant to be shared with everyone; it’s not some luxury commodity. It’s about wine for all people.”

—Kyle Kennelly and Becca Mantei

SEMI TROPIC WINES 816 W 19th St Costa Mesa, CA 92627 949.520.2118 www.semitropicwines.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 109

foodie /// profile

Kyle Kennelly and Becca Mantei Founders of Semi Tropic Wines

Join the Club

• Semi Tropic Wines has a monthly wine club where you can get two to four bottles of exclusive wine per month. Members will receive 10% off all bottle purchases in the bottle shop and no corkage fee in the wine bar.

Wine Connoisseur

• Semi Tropic’s wine director, Stephen Amato Salvatierra, is extremely knowledgeable in the natural wine world. “He does all the buying, talks to importers, hosts tastings with different reps and places orders for our shop,” Kennelly says.

Something About All Natural

A

After a year of virtual happy hours and Friday nights at home on the couch, it’s time to celebrate a new sense of normal. That feel-good outfit, California sunshine and a glass of refreshing wine are all calling your name. The time has finally come to confidently get out and about and meet your friends for an evening of nothing but good vibes at Costa Mesa’s newest gem, Semi Tropic Wines.

• The difference is in the taste of natural wine, and you can thank the winemakers and farmers for that. Mantei explains, “People perk up in interest because it tastes so different and realize the winemakers are letting these grapes shine; they’re allowing their land to produce good quality grapes for years to come.”

Featuring natural wines from all over the world, Semi Tropic Wines opened their quaint bottle shop in November 2020.

That’s correct—in the middle of a global pandemic. And just a couple months ago, the other half of Semi Tropic Wines, the attached wine bar, opened its doors.

Founders Kyle Kennelly and Becca Mantei realized the surprising lack of access to natural wine in the Orange County area. “It’s really an anomaly anywhere else; it’s relatively developed.

There’s natural wine in abundance, but it was hard to find the wine we wanted.”

While the term “natural wine” is thrown around ambiguously, there’s a few key differences that make wine, well, natural.

Kennelly dives into a bit of the history by explaining, “People have been making natural wine for thousands of years (all the way back 8,000 years ago in the country of Georgia), putting grapes in ceramic vessels, burying them in the 110 LOCALE MAGAZINE

”The natural wine world is so rad. In comparison to both the surf and coffee industry, there’s a beautiful sense of abundance; everyone is so unthreatened.”

—Kyle Kennelly

“We wanted to create a place for natural wine to flourish, giving people a space to explore at whatever level they come in at.”

—Kyle Kennelly

“What it feels like to go to a wine bar in Paris—if we can get a little slice of that in Costa Mesa, that’s a success for us.” —Kyle Kennelly

earth and letting them ferment; eventually it would turn into wine. Nobody was focused on separating the red and white grapes or taking the skins off the grapes.”

One of the biggest differences between conventional and natural wine is the farming practices. The use of pesticides and other chemicals to keep insects off the plants are excluded from the natural wine process.

“Natural winemakers farm organically or biodynamically.

They are much more connected to the earth and to their farms,” Kennelly explains. This explains the vibrant, funky and lively taste that comes when sipping natural wine. Mantei adds, “There’s a list of 70 chemicals that can be added to conventional wine that doesn’t have to be disclosed on the label. You can be drinking pesticides and dyes, and it’s barely wine at all.”

With a stroke of luck, a building built back in the 1960s became available for lease for the first time in over 50 years. Ideal for their dream wine shop, the two put in an application and were soon accepted to rent the Westside Costa Mesa building. Kennelly and Mantei envisioned a welcoming space for the community to gather, somewhat similar to neighborhood favorite Daydream Surf Shop—a specialty coffee and surf shop—which they also own.

“We wanted to create a place for natural wine to flourish, giving people a space to explore at whatever level they come in at,” Kennelly states. ”The natural wine world is so rad. In comparison to both the surf and coffee industry, there’s a beautiful sense of abundance; everyone is so unthreatened.” Countless choices of bottles with intriguing and beautiful labels are available

to purchase on the left side of the building, while the charming wine bar exists on the right side, filled with wood booths, plants, an outdoor patio and an open and airy atmosphere.

Not only does Semi Tropic offer unique wines from all over the world—France, Italy, Mexico, Georgia, Australia and California to name a few regions—but they also serve decadent dishes that pair beautifully with each bottle.

Ashlee Barbito, who was instrumental in crafting the food menu at Neat Coffee (a fellow Costa Mesa coffee shop just a few blocks away), created the dishes and menu at Semi Tropic. Featuring fresh dishes with local ingredients, the team works with The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano to stock fresh produce, olives and other seasonal items. Charcuterie and crudité are a bit of what to expect. “When we visited Paris in 2019, every wine shop had a small kitchen set up, and they were turning out creative, super light menus,” Kennelly says. “What it feels like to go to a wine bar in Paris—if we can get a little slice of that in Costa Mesa, that’s success to us.”

There’s truly something special about connecting with people in real life, especially over a glass of wine and a bite to eat. You’re bound to see a familiar face here, or you can strike up a chat with a stranger, which was wholeheartedly missed during a time when the world was in lockdown. “Wine is meant to be shared with everyone; it’s not some luxury commodity. It’s about wine for all people,” says Mantei. The entire goal and purpose of the shop, an inclusive space for all ages and backgrounds to gather, has been fulfilled. We’ll cheers to that!

LOCALE MAGAZINE 111

foodie /// spotlight

Chef’d, Sealed, Delivered

ASHLEIGH FERRAN FOUNDER AND CEO OF IN GOOD COMPANY

THIS FOOD DELIVERY COMPANY IS GOOD FOR FOODIES, RESTAURANTS AND THE ENVIRONMENT

SPICE IT UP

“I live on this food now!

It’s all so good,” Ferran says. The most recent members of her CleanPlate Club are Thai curry and harissa short ribs.

WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY: OLIVIA HAYO, CITY PROPER

It’s easy to have a love-hate relationship with food delivery.

The pros: you get to support your favorite eateries, stimulate the local economy and skip the messy kitchen. The cons: food-delivery services take costs from restaurants, your order may not travel well and you’re left with heaps of single-use packaging.

In 2020, Ashleigh Ferran thought that there had to be a better way.

Ferran’s background is in sustainability, and pre-COVID, she began Keko Box, a company that provides sustainable packaging for venues that would cater to large crowds. The pandemic, of course, threw a wrench in Keko Box’s plans to launch, but it inspired Ferran to find new ways to make food delivery even better.

“I was really wanting to support local restaurants, but I was feeling guilty because having one

112 LOCALE MAGAZINE

SUCCESS, DEFINED

IN GOOD COMPANY Los Angeles, San Diego www.eatigc.com @eatIGC

“WHY ARE THERE NOT MORE WAYS TO SUPPORT THE PLACES I LOVE?” —ASHLEIGH FERRAN

meal with my husband left eight pieces of packaging,” Ferran explains. She also lived outside the delivery radius of eateries she wanted to order from.

But then she was inspired by a restaurant that was selling frozen dumplings.

Ferran thought, “Why are there not more ways to support the places I love?” And from that question, In Good Company was born.

In Good Company is a new kind of food delivery service in Los Angeles and San Diego that partners up with local restaurants to bring chef-quality food to your door. The food is frozen and delivered in reusable metal packaging, and when you’re ready, just heat up the food in the oven, make a few sides and pour a beverage to complete the meal. Once you enjoy your food, return the packaging—it’s that simple! Not only will your food be beautifully prepared every time, but

“If I can build a company that does some good for local business, the community and the

economy while inspiring joy…and doing it in a way that’s not destructive to the planet, that’s success,” says Ferran.

FORGING AHEAD

Ferran says, “The biggest challenge is that everything is happening so fast! It’s a great problem to have as an entrepreneur.”

you’ll be helping your community and Mother Nature in the process.

Sustainability is something that In Good Company is pioneering in the food delivery industry, and Ferran hopes it sparks a shift in culture and thinking.

“Choosing reusability is a value-add,” she says.

“You don’t have to give something up for more sustainability—we can give you more.”

In Good Company helps eateries explore new profit opportunities, benefits the planet with its reusable packaging and provides customers with high-quality entrees from restaurants near and far. Win, win, win!

“I’ve been so lucky to have amazing chefs and restaurant partners who are excited to try something new,” Ferran says. “And it’s really cool to see different people resonate with the idea for different reasons… It’s really unifying!”

foodie /// feature

HOAGIE

Heaven TAKE A BITE OUT OF THESE DROOLWORTHY SANDWICHES IN SOCAL The linchpin of lunch pails. The delicacy of delicatessens. The cornerstone of corner stores. Yes, we’re talking about the sandwich.

Perhaps the most iconic of lunch foods, this between-bread beauty of a bite is as quintessential as they come. Whether you call it a sub, a dagwood, a sammy or anything else, people are obsessed with this pillar of portability, and there’s a reason why: they are simply delicious.



Photo - Sessions West Coast Deli: Aaron Strelecki



Hakuna Matata Sessions West Coast Deli

WRITTEN BY: JANE ADLER PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NATHAN COX & LILY FASSNACHT

LOCALE MAGAZINE 115

foodie /// feature

TIDEPOOLE’S 6310 West Coast Hwy Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.270.6547 www.tidepooles.com

• Craving a coffee? Stroll down just a few steps to neighborhood favorite Vacancy to get your caffeine kick.

Stay Awhile

Newport Beach

• With three giant TVs on their wall, this could be your new go-to spot to catch a game after a day at the beach.

...this local lunch spot does a bomb breakfast burrito and slings beers for anyone who needs a little afternoon buzz.

Tide You Over MUST-ORDER SANDWICH: TIDEPOOLE’S TUNA TidePoole’s Deli & Brew has laid its roots on West Coast Hwy, mere steps from the sand. This Newport newcomer has been whipping up all-day eats since 2019 and recently added a back patio for those who want to smell the salt air while scarfing down a sando. When it comes to navigating the menu, you really can’t go wrong.

The Angler’s Toast is a dressed-up tuna melt served open-faced on an Italian roll. Meanwhile, the Blackie’s Sammy is a pesto, artichoke, arugula and provolone masterpiece (add the chicken—trust us).

Open every day until 9 p.m., this local lunch spot does a bomb breakfast burrito and slings beers for anyone who needs a little afternoon buzz.

116 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Photos - Wexler’s Deli | Sessions West Coast Deli: Aaron Strelecki | Tidepoole’s: Lily Fassnacht

Local Love



Orange County

Bring Your Brew Crew

• Happy hour is from 3-6 p.m. on weekdays and features local beer selections on tap.

Beach n’ Bites

SESSIONS WEST COAST DELI Huntington Beach, Irvine, Newport Beach www.sessionswcd.com

Room Service!

• You can now ship Wexler’s directly to your door by ordering through Goldbelly, an online marketplace for regional and artisanal foods.

Lox Lovers Unite

Sandos by the Sea MUST-ORDER SANDWICH: HAKUNA MATATA Sessions offers a funky fresh selection of small bites, sandwiches and salads. With a menu that ranges from breakfast burritos to banh mis, locals are flocking to their favorite post-surf spot. Some of the go-to grub includes the shaka spuds, the Wake & Bake Breakfast Bomb, the signature avocado toast, Chef Max’s Baller Meatballs, the Thai chop salad and, honestly, just about every sandwich they offer. The Summer Zephyr is a caprese salad between buns, complete with basil aioli and balsamic reduction.

The Meddock Melee, a fancified turkey sandwich, is total squaw goals. With four locations in Orange County, Sessions has been serving up radical eats since 2013.

Los Angeles



• The Balboa Peninsula location is a hop, skip and a bite away from the beach, so take your sammy to go and enjoy it with a side of sunshine.

• In love with lox?

Join the club… literally. Wexler’s offers a lox membership where club members will receive a weekly custom gift bag of smoked fish, smoked meat, bagels, bread, salads, pickles and all the rest of the accoutrements to mix, match and make all the combos you love.

Lox’d and Loaded MUST-ORDER SANDWICH: L.A. BIRD With the original location nestled in downtown LA’s iconic Grand Central Market, Wexler’s Deli is smoking the competition—quite literally. This Jewish deli is famous for its smoked fish and fancy finger foods. Their menu offers an array of old-school deli recipes that are all things sweet, salty, spicy and smoked. If you’re not salivating already, you will be. With corned beef and pastrami done every which way, their sandwiches are nothing short of iconic.

If you’re a turkey lover like us, the L.A. Bird—stuffed with smoked turkey, mustard, slaw and Russian dressing—is the way to go.

And whether it is smeared, scrambled, sliced or smoked, if it’s between two bagels, it still counts as a sandwich!

WEXLER’S DELI Downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica www.wexlersdeli.com

The Summer Zephyr is a caprese salad between buns, complete with basil aioli and balsamic reduction.

LOCALE MAGAZINE 117

OC + SD

San Diego

MUST-ORDER SANDWICH: TURKADO If you call yourself a SoCal local, then you know the magic that happens between the bread at Board & Brew. With a handful of locations throughout SoCal and a sandwich board that’ll make your mouth water, it’s no surprise this spot is a local fav! Feast on Board & Brew’s famous Turkado, which is crafted with turkey breast, jack cheese, mayo, onion, lettuce, tomato, avocado, and served on sourdough bread. When people think of Board & Brew, they know (and love) the Turkado, as this stacked delight has remained the restaurant’s #1 seller since 1979. Other musttrys include the tasty Tub o Tuna, decadent Left Coast Pastrami and classic Beef Dip.

Hint, Hint

• Board & Brew’s secret sauce was designed specifically to compliment the Turkado sandwich, but we recommend you slather it on anything and everything.

Home on the Ranch MUST-ORDER SANDWICH: CORNED BEEF REUBEN With a menu that pays homage to locally sourced ingredients, this Solana Beach restaurant is all about supporting small, sustainable and handpicked purveyors who raise their proteins with compassion. The ranch-hand favorites include the carne asada burrito and chicken salad wrap, but the between-bread options are where it’s really at. The smoked tri tip sandwich is a real crowd pleaser with housemade BBQ sauce, crispy onions and coleslaw served on a brioche bun. Any of the other options, which are all served with homemade pickles, will make your taste buds tingle. Ranch 45 exclusively sells Brandt beef products, a family-owned premium beef producer that maintains a “farm-to-fork” philosophy by raising all animals humanely and naturally without hormones or antibiotics.

RANCH 45 512 Via De La Valle, Ste 102 Solana Beach, CA 92075 858.461.0092 www.ranch45.com 118 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Learn From the Pros

• Ranch 45 offers cooking demonstrations and classes for those who want a more hands-on eating experience. Check out their website for more information on the happenings at the Ranch!

BOARD & BREW Multiple Locations www.boardandbrew.com

From the Beginning

• The first Board & Brew opened in Del Mar, San Diego in 1979. To this day, the original location remains a cult favorite of locals and visitors alike.

Best Day of the Week

• Ranch 45 does a Sunday Supper BBQ every week from 2-4 p.m. (preorder only). Chef DuVal’s famous BBQ is the only way to end your weekend.

A Cut Above MUST-ORDER SANDWICH: BREAKFAST SANDWICH Sixty different cuts, 12 local farms, one meat guy—that is the recipe for a dangerously delicious deli. The Wise Ox in San Diego is a cut above the rest when it comes to offering up quality meats.

Smoked, sliced thin or in slabs—you can’t go wrong with any of their decadent sandwiches, from the Philly cheesesteak to the roast beef. And when their Reuben is on special, run…don’t walk. Ox enthusiasts can also opt for their monthly meat subscription called the Ox Box, which is a carefully curated 10-pound selection of high-quality proteins that is vacuum-sealed for freshness and comes with cooking tips for each cut. Each box has over $150 worth of goods that vary each month, so customers can get a medley of meat options with their $115 subscription.

THE WISE OX 2855 El Cajon Blvd, Ste 1 San Diego, CA 92104 619.564.8976 www.thewiseoxsd.com

No Waste Here

Solana Beach

• Nothing goes to waste at The Wise Ox; any unused animal parts can be wrapped up for the customer’s canine companions upon request.

Nice to Meat You

• Join them for their bi-weekly Ox Barbecue series, featuring meats cooked low and slow until juicy and tender!

Photos - The Wise Ox: Marisa Ritter | Board and Brew: Hunter Cole and Board & Brew | Ranch 45: JTran Photos

‘Wiches and Brews

foodie /// feature

Indio

Olive You

Palm Springs

• Do you love olives? The Real Italian Deli has an olive bar with seven different kinds, so you can get your salty fix.

Calling All Sweet Tooths

• At The Real Italian Deli, you can have your cake and eat it too. Their selection of sweets are sold by the slice.

Photos - TKB Bakery & Deli & The Real Italian Deli: Nathan Cox

MUST-ORDER SANDWICH: MUFFALETTA The Real Italian Deli is just as the name suggests; it’s the real deal when it comes to authentic Italian dishes. With two locations in the desert, this staple is the go-to for anyone with a hankering for specialty sandwiches and sweet treats. They offer a sando you won’t be able to forget, made with porchetta (a slow-cooked pork roast) that has been stuffed and thinly sliced. If your eyes are bigger than your stomach, the meatball sandwich or muffaletta served on housemade focaccia bread will have you saying “mamma mia,” complete with a chef’s kiss. With meat and cheese trays for days, visitors will be tempted by salami, prosciutto, capocollo and mor… tadella, that is.

THE REAL ITALIAN DELI Palm Springs, Palm Desert www.therealitaliandeli.com

MUST-ORDER SANDWICH: BUFFALO SOLDIER



Pass It to the Italians!

Bread, White and Blue

Perfect PostPool Day

• TKB does BBQ Wednesday where they add a selection of smoked meat sandwiches to their menu for one day and one day only.

Yelp’s No. 1 restaurant in America back in 2018, TKB Bakery & Deli takes their sandwich-making seriously. TKB, or The Kid’s Business, began in 1991 out of the Sippel home as a neighborhood business that quickly grew into a full-blown family affair.

Nearly 30 years later, they are still slinging all of the fan favorites.

From a chicken chipotle on jalapeño focaccia bread to a spiced-up chicken salad sandwich dubbed the Mexican Marilyn Monroe, their signature selections will make your taste buds sing. One of the most popular choices to chomp is the Trump Card, a meat medley of turkey, salami and bacon with pepper jack cheese, avocado, mayo, mustard, lettuce, tomato, onion, jalapeño potato chips and chipotle sauce, all piled high on a jalapeño focaccia roll. This is an allAmerican family business serving up good eats with a side of smiles.

TKB BAKERY & DELI 44911 Golf Center Pkwy Indio, CA 92201 760.775.8330 www.tkbbakery.com

Calling All Angelenos

• Need a Dodger Dog fix but nowhere near the stadium? Fear not, this deli is doing this baseball culinary classic justice with their take on the LA staple.

This is an all-American family business serving up good eats with a side of smiles.

LOCALE MAGAZINE 119

foodie /// meals deconstructed

A Slice of Summer T H I S F R E S H , F R U I T Y D I S H I S O N E I N A M E LO N

A

A kiss of the grill takes this delicious and healthy dish to another dimension as summer arrives in the Coachella Valley. Nothing rings in the season like a fresh, ripe watermelon.

The succulent, sweet fruit is tasty, refreshing and packed with nutrients.

At Heirloom Craft Kitchen, watermelon is one of Chef Andie Hubka’s seasonal favorites. As the temperatures soar, we’ve seen the reappearance of her Grilled Watermelon and Feta Salad. Grilling fruits is something of a modern phenomenon.

Chefs across the country have substituted the fruit for sushi, steak and even baked ham. Yes, seriously! “When you grill watermelon, it takes on a caramelized, almost meaty flavor,” explains Hubka. “As the water evaporates, it concentrates the flavor and sweetness.”

The plate appears with a beautiful potpourri of red, white and green. The cooking process intensifies the color of the watermelon and brands it with signature grill scores. It’s overlaid by alternating drizzles of chive oil and balsamic reduction and is then topped with a confetti of feta crumbles, pickled onions and vibrant greens. Approach this dish with a fork in one hand and camera in the other.

WRITTEN BY: ANDREW SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NATHAN COX

1.

GRILLED WATERMELON

GRILLED WATERMELON AND FETA SALAD INGREDIENTS

Indio

3. SALT 2. ARUG ULA

5. CILANTRO

6. CHIVE OIL

4. FETA CHEESE

WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS...

• When the pandemic served the restaurant industry lemons, Andie Hubka created Citrine, her fifth Valley concept. It’s a “shadow kitchen” located inside Cooking with Class that offers a weekly rotating menu, featuring cuisines from all over the world.

7. PICKLED ONIONS MAKE THIS AT HOME • Look out for Hubka’s third cookbook in the fall! This one will feature Heirloom Craft Kitchen’s recipes, including the Grilled Watermelon and Feta Salad!

The watermelon is indeed a little heartier and meatier in texture, showing its accentuated sweetness and mild grilled

The cooking process intensifies the color of the watermelon and brands it with signature grill scores.

8. BALSAMIC REDUCTION

(NOT PICTURED)

smokiness. That sweetness contrasts well with the saltiness of the feta, the tang of the balsamic and pickled onions and the fresh, garlicky chive oil. It’s topped off with a medley of citrusy micro cilantro.

As an off-menu special, the dish may alternate arugula and microgreens, and it’s delicious in either format. Chef Hubka really likes to explore the realms of creativity across her restaurants during watermelon season. You’ll find agua frescas and cocktails at Tu Madres Cantina & Grill, watermelon gazpacho at Cork & Fork and a watermelon burrata at Heirloom, as well as pickled watermelon toppings on tacos and salads.

120 LOCALE MAGAZINE

HEIRLOOM CRAFT KITCHEN 49990 Jefferson Blvd, Ste 100 Indio, CA 92201 760.773.2233 heirloomcraftkitchen.com

foodie /// feature

Summer Stunners W I N E , D I N E A N D S O A K U P T H E S U N AT T H E S E S T U N N I N G S O C A L R E S TA U R A N T S

WRITTEN BY: JANE ADLER

There’s no such thing as “alfresco season” in Southern California. With our sunnyand-75 days and balmy nights, it’s no secret our West Coast weather reigns supreme. And with the summer months officially upon us, there is no better time to sip and savor the sunshine. With that said, we’ve hand-picked our favorite summer spots to wine, dine and unwind. From the heart of Palm Springs to the historic district of San Juan Capistrano, these five restaurants are sure to help you relish the good ol’ dog days.

LOCALE MAGAZINE 123

JOEY MANHATTAN BEACH 3120 N Sepulveda Blvd Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 310.546.1139 www.joeyrestaurants.com

foodie /// feature

While JOEY restaurants always play the culinary greatest hits, they have also cracked the cocktail code as well.

EASY, BREEZY JOEY Offers Something for Everyone in Manhattan Beach

The newest of the JOEY locations sits in Manhattan Village and is a stone’s throw from the sand, making it prime real estate for gathering and grazing.

Three JOEY locations reside in The City of Angels, where beachgoers and valley visitors can indulge in both surf and turf. Speaking of, the steak and lobster ravioli is an absolute must for people who like to have their steak and eat it too. The newest of the JOEY locations sits in Manhattan Village and is a stone’s throw from the sand, making it prime real estate for gathering and grazing. Indulge in a passionfruit spicy margarita on the patio, and you’ll be sippin’ pretty this summer.

Smile, It’s Happy Hour!

• It’s happy hour every day at JOEY with dinein happy hour pricing from 3-6 p.m. and online from open-4 p.m. Be sure to order the sushi cone—a JOEY original dish you can score for less than $5! Treat yourself to a lunch break for a breath of fresh air and good times.

• While JOEY restaurants always play the culinary greatest hits, they have also cracked the cocktail code as well. Any drink that begins with “Super” is topped with a signature lemon-lime slush for a lip-lickin’ libation that’ll have you mouthing “one more.”

Eat Your Heart Out It’s a Vibe • The decor is as trendy as the drinks with neon lights, open-concept floor plans, a green ceiling installation and lounge-friendly furniture. It’s a fabulous spot for a group get together and a spirited game of credit card roulette. Soak in the fresh California breeze as you dine on the expansive outdoor patio.

124 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Sip, Sip, Hooray

• From sushi and salads to steaks, sandwiches and beyond, this LA staple is hitting all the high notes for a virtually pitch perfect meal.

And as for the final S (sweets), well they have that covered too!

Featuring decadent Italian donuts, molten chocolate cake and apple pie, you’ll convert even the most stubborn of “I have no room for dessert” Debbie Downers.

Photography Provided By: Christina Gandolfo (venue) and Velour Productions (food)

Manhattan Beach

THE NAUGHTY FOX 111 Crescent Ave Avalon, CA 90704 310.510.0555 www.bellancahotel.com/the-naughty-fox

foodie /// feature

If you’re feeling the island vibes, their mai tai does not disappoint and will transport you to tropical paradise.

NAUTICAL AND NICE This On-Shore Eatery Will Set Your Watch to Island Time

An oceanfront oasis, The Naughty Fox will make you feel a little bit flirty and a whole lot fuller after testing out its melting pot of a menu.

This harborview haunt is the cookery Catalina Island has been begging for.

An oceanfront oasis, The Naughty Fox will make you feel a little bit flirty and a whole lot fuller after testing out their melting pot of a menu. Located inside of the Bellanca Hotel right off of the main drag, this restaurant boasts some pretty impressive bay views and equally impressive bites.

Come hungry, leave happy!

Mai Tai-pe of Mixology • If you’re feeling the island vibes, their mai tai does not disappoint and will transport you to tropical paradise.

Fancy something sweet? The svelte strawberry is a fan favorite made with balsamic vinegar and fresh strawberries. And if you are looking for a Catalina classic, their take on the famous “Buffalo milk” cocktail puts all others to shame. Creamy and delicious, this slow sipper can act as both your drink and dessert.

Booze With Views • As one of only a handful of restaurants on the water, this fox of a find is shore to impress. The indooroutdoor dining allows for patrons to enjoy their patio overlooking the Pacific. Located on the south end of Crescent Ave, The Naughty Fox has views of the cove all the way to the famed Casino.

126 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Going Green • Overall, this place is reasonably priced with generous portions.

The Naughty Fox has a quirky, cool interior featuring bamboo and wood accents and lime green bar stools that practically shout at you from the street, “Eat here, we’re fun!” It’s a great place for a date night or dinner with a friend, especially when your watch is set to island time.

The Way We Roll • The menu itself is kind of a hodgepodge of foodie favorites celebrating local ingredients with an emphasis on seafood fare. It’s a little bit country and a little bit rock ‘n’ roll…sushi rolls, that is. Get your fritto misto fix or hop on board the hummus train for a dish best enjoyed with friends.

Whether you choose to share or not—well, that’s naan of our business.

Photography Provided By: Second Sight Design

Avalon

THE WAVERLY 2005 San Elijo Ave Cardiff, CA 92007 760.230.1682 www.thewaverly.com

foodie /// feature

Cardiff Photography Provided By: James Tran (food and drink) and Kimberly Motos (venue)

Everything at The Waverly is picture perfect and ready to be posted.

TRIP TO THE TROPICS If you prefer your spritzes spiked with sunshine, opt to post up on the Waverly’s patio underneath one of their striped Business & Pleasure umbrellas.

128 LOCALE MAGAZINE

This Tropical-Chic Oasis Is a Treat for the Taste Buds and a Feast for the Eyes Where trendy meets Tulum, you get The Waverly.

This restaurant and lounge located in Cardiff keeps it cool and casual with an allday cafe vibe. Executive chef Brian Redzikowski has awards and accolades for days, and diners can experience his incredible talent first-hand when they belly up to the wrap-around bar. Speaking of the bar, their beverage program that’s run by Eric Johnson and Leigh Lacap will have you shaken (not stirred) and buzzing for more.

Post Up • Belly up to the giant U-shaped bar or banter in one of their beloved velvet-lined booths; either way, you’ll be in on the action. If you prefer your spritzes spiked with sunshine, opt to post up on the Waverly’s patio underneath one of their striped Business & Pleasure umbrellas. The Instagram opportunities are infinite.

Donut Miss Out • The dinner menu has more fun and flirty offerings that are classic all-American with a European twist.

The Gioia burrata donuts will blow your flippin’ mind—do not miss out on this decadent dish! And for the daring drinker, knock-a back a couple chaca-chacas: a bold blend of tequila, strawberry aperol, salted orgeat and lemon for a beautifully balanced sweet, salty, acidic sipper.

Brunch.

Drunk. Love.

• Their daytime menu is chock-full of brunch favorites, from bagels and brioches to Benedicts and beyond. If you are more of a lunch lover, fear not, as they have plenty of plates that skew savory, such as their take on fast-food favorites like In-NOut’s double double and Chick-Fil-A’s chicken sandwich.

Good as Gold • Everything at The Waverly is picture perfect and ready to be posted. Designed by sister duo of Design 4 Corners, the decor is downright droolworthy. From the gold accents to the greenery, the tropical-with-a-twist vibe is fun and flirty.

With original pieces

by Australian artist Jai Vasicek, the walls seem to come to life under the exposed ceiling and oversized fixtures.

foodie /// feature

FIELD TO TABLE Mayfield Keeps it Fresh, Local and Natural in the Heart of San Juan Capistrano

With an industrial-chic aesthetic, the interior feels original and organic, from the greenery to the roll-up garage doors.

Mayfield is the latest addition to San Juan Capistrano’s growing culinary catalog. If you see trains, you’re on the right track—quite literally.

Mayfield is located right next to the Amtrak station in a refurbished historic building in the heart of San Juan.

Charming but not pretentious, this new south county staple is as easy on the eyes as it is on the appetite.

MAYFIELD 31761 Camino Capistrano, Ste 5-6 San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 949.218.5140 www.mayfieldoc.com

A Toast to Brioche • Closed on Mondays but open at 10 a.m. every other day of the week, you can start your morning at Mayfield with a breakfast that’ll make any brunch enthusiast happy. Their all-day menu features a bacon brioche breakfast sandwich…need we say more? Featuring a variety of sweet and savory toasts and potatoes cooked every which way, Mayfield knows how to get the a.m. started.

A Whole Lotta Cotta • Sweet tooth? We heard one diner claim that the panna cotta was the best she had ever had, and their budino is going to be a budi-yes from us.

Don’t miss out on their oh-so-pretty cocktails (and natural wine!) either. The mixologist in us recognizes the mixologist in you, Mayfield. Honestly, we can’t even pick a favorite—just close your eyes, point and order that.

130 LOCALE MAGAZINE

San Juan Capistrano

Fixer-Upper • Offering an a la carte menu on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, the weekends are saved for their prix fixe supper club menu. Diners can enjoy Middle Easterninspired cuisine with a variety of vegetables and proteins that are all cooked to perfection.

Whether you opt for a la carte or spring for the supper club menu at $55 per person, you’ll love the fresh, seasonal fare.

Fan favorites include the Japanese sweet potato, octopus, lamb meatballs and the za’atar fried chicken.

Bright and Airy • Mayfield is impressive with its high ceilings, long bar and low booths.

With an industrialchic aesthetic, the interior feels original and organic, from the greenery to the roll-up garage doors.

With wine bottles that double as decor, visitors will be able to have their cakebread and drink it too.

Photograph Provided By: Mayfield Restaurant & Market

Charming but not pretentious, this new south county staple is as easy on the eyes as it is on the appetite.

BIRBA 622 N Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.327.5678 www.birbaps.com

foodie /// feature

A SLICE OF HEAVEN Located in a space that feels more like a swanky backyard than an upscale Italian joint, diners will feel right at home cocktailing and kibitzing under the twinkling lights.

Birba Brings Fresh Pies and an Open-Air Ambiance to Palm Springs Birba has long been one of Palm Springs’ most popular hot spots since it opened a decade ago in 2011. Located in the heart of downtown right next to brunch favorite Cheekys, this coveted cookery is a real-life concrete jungle complete with oversized tree canopies that keep you cool and look even cooler. Whether you’ve come for the ‘za or the dreamy backyard ambiance, this bistro-style spot does not disappoint.

Hail Mary • Birba is now offering brunch on the weekends from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. for the early birds who like Bloody Marys.

Whether you fancy sweet or savory, you’ll leave satisfied. And any place that offers a breakfast martini is A-OK in our book!

A Pizza Your Heart • Known for their wood-fired pizza, Birba churns out pie after pie, and it’s amore at first sight.

Their homemade classic is a fan favorite with fennel, sweet onion, mushrooms and San Marzano tomatoes. And don’t even get us started on the meatballs—some of the best in town!

Setting the Bar High

...this coveted cookery is a reallife concrete jungle, complete with oversized tree canopies that keep you cool and look even cooler.

132 LOCALE MAGAZINE

• This is the spot to hit on your girls weekend getaway. The open-air bar, which anchors the place, is always buzzing with activity while mixologists handcraft Birba’s signature cocktails.

The Heated Snake is their take on a spicy margarita, complete with housemade habanero simple syrup—a must-sip!

Wood You Rather • Located in a space that feels more like a swanky backyard than an upscale Italian joint, diners will feel right at home cocktailing and kibitzing under the twinkle lights.

Large parties can be accommodated at their oversized wood tables and bench seating.

Photos - Audrey Ma - audreyma.com

Palm Springs

You Gotta Work

(FOR YOUR CROWN) PAIR YOUR SUMMER OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES WITH A CORONA HARD SELTZER

Warm weather means lacing up those sneakers and hitting the trails!

Spend a breezy summer day hiking the gorgeous trails Orange County has to offer. Boasting beautiful ocean views and luscious greenery, there’s no better place for a breath of fresh air and an hour or two to disconnect. Pack a backpack with a few snacks and a Pineapple Corona Hard Seltzer for a post-hike treat after you reach the top of the trail.

Summer and seltzers simply go hand in hand.

Whether it’s hiking or biking, work and earn your Corona crown after an outdoor workout in the summer sun. At only 90 calories each, the toughest decision you’ll have to make is deciding which fruity Corona Seltzer flavor to sip on! Check out our guide below to find out which flavor is right for your summer vibe.

S

WRITTEN BY: REYES BACA + TAYLOR GORSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY: RILEY STARR AND LAUREN LEWELLEN

Surf essentials: towel, board and a fully stocked cooler of Corona Hard Seltzer for after your evening surf sesh. Let’s face it, you’ve been dreaming of warmer weather to finally spend time in the water; now it’s time to take full advantage! The tropical atmosphere you crave is encapsulated in the Passionfruit Corona Hard Seltzer flavor. Slather on that SPF and sip on!

Calories BURNED

200-400 Calories BURNED

300-400

Hit the Hiking Trails

Catch Some Waves

drink this: Pineapple Corona Hard Seltzer

If you have never attempted a little beach yoga, we highly recommend it! While yoga is already a soothing, meditative experience, yoga with an ocean backdrop is even better. Go at your own pace, and after, crack open a cold Raspberry Corona Hard Seltzer to keep the relaxing vibes flowing.

Calories BURNED

100-200

Calories BURNED

200-600

Namaste All Day *All “calories burned” are estimated and based on at least a one hour workout.

drink this:

Raspberry Corona Hard Seltzer

134 LOCALE MAGAZINE

drink this:

Passionfruit Corona Hard Seltzer

Whether it’s your turn to plan date night or you’re meeting up with a friend during the work week, we’ve got your plans covered. All you need are a few simple items: bikes, a blanket and snacks!

Ride beach bikes down the boardwalk, and watch the sunset on the sand with a Strawberry Corona Hard Seltzer in hand.

Date Night x Beach Bikes

drink this:

Decisions, Decisions

Along with their most recent variety pack of flavors, the original variety pack features flavors like cherry, mango and tropical lime.

Feeling Extra?

Corona Hard Seltzers are the perfect addition to create refreshing summer cocktails! Browse coronausa.com/blogs/ recipes for simple yet delicious recipes.

Healthified Drinking Not to fret, all flavors of Corona Hard Seltzer are gluten-free.

Strawberry Corona Hard Seltzer

CORONA USA www.coronausa.com

Photos - Riley Starr, @rileystarrphoto

foodie /// around the clock

PHOTO BY: Kambria Fischer • DATE THE CITY www.datethecity.com | @date.the.city | LIDO MARINA VILLAGE ELECTRIC BOAT RENTAL www.eboatsrental.com | TAVERN HOUSE KITCHEN + BAR www.tavernhousekb.com

alive June 2021 /// explore. ignite. innovate.

Newport Beach

145

A Midsummer Day's Dream No Matter Your Budget, These 3 Date Itineraries Will Leave You With a Happy Heart

Feature

LOCALE MAGAZINE 137

alive /// living like a local

Pride and Joy President of Palm Springs Pride Shares His Favorite Hangouts

Palm Springs NAME: Ron deHarte JOB TITLE: President and CEO of Palm Springs Pride

3 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT PRIDE FEST:

RESIDENT OF: Palm Springs

1. The setting (a palm tree-lined street and views of the San Jacinto Mountains) 2. The friendly, laidback and unpretentious vibe 3. The way our diverse community comes together in celebration

LOCAL LIVING: 11 years

DESERT LOVE

I love the laid-back and sophisticated desert resort living, mixed with a splash of swank and a vibe of yesteryear. It’s inspiring to live among so many talented and artistic people—each having a unique story and life experience.

“When someone supports Palm Springs Pride, they help us empower others… We support LGBTQ civil rights activism and promote awareness of the LGBTQ community.”

I SCREAM, YOU SCREAM

Ò Ice Cream & Shop(pe) at Arrive Hotel is the perfect late-night or afternoon spot when you need a sweet tooth fix. Ice cream chef and owner Athalie LaPamuk opened her shop in 2016, and she continues to create 16 distinct flavors daily. You can’t go wrong with a scoop of Coachella Valley Date, or for a unique treat, try the lavender ice cream.

Pro tip: save room for toppings; they’re always free.

PALM SPRINGS PRIDE apps.pspride.org | @palmspringspride

www.icecreamandshop.com

UPTOWN FEEL

Ò The uptown setting at Eight4Nine Restaurant and Lounge is always great for a casual drop-in, an afternoon escape to quench your thirst or an evening out on the town. The owners are socially minded and support many community programs and organizations. I also love them because they have supported Pride from its opening day. www.eight4nine.com

138 LOCALE MAGAZINE

SHHHH...

Ò Step back in time and enter the back room of Mr. Lyons where you’ll discover a spot that feels like it could have been a speakeasy during the Palm Springs golden years. Seymour’s serves up craft cocktails (their specialty) in a hidden lounge-like setting. This secret spot is perfect for a pre-dinner meet-up. www.seymoursps.com

IN THE WORKS

Ò This year, “You Are Included” is the theme of Palm Springs Pride; it’s the largest citywide celebration in history.

Pride, taking place November 1-7, will be a celebration of Palm Springs and will mark the 36th anniversary of Pride in the Coachella Valley. apps.pspride.org

TRIP TO TRIO

Ò Out-of-town visitors always enjoy at least one visit to Trio Restaurant. For starters, several margaritas and the fried artichoke hearts are musts during happy hour. My go-to entree is the brined center-cut pork chop. After dinner, check out the galleries, shopping and enjoy the trendy Uptown Design District! www.triopalmsprings.com

Photographed By: Nathan Cox | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar

Photoshoot Location: ICE CREAM & SHOP(PE) AT ARRIVE PALM SPRINGS 1551 N Palm Canyon Dr, Ste A Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.507.4005 www.icecreamandshop.com

alive /// living like a local

Cutting Edge This Graphic Designer and Cycling Instructor Spills the Tea on the Hippest Hideouts in San Diego

San Diego NAME: Aaron Low JOB TITLE: Graphic Designer and Indoor Cycling Instructor

3 MUST-DO ACTIVITIES IN SAN DIEGO:

RESIDENT OF: San Diego

1. Visit Sunset Cliffs for the views 2. Go to the farmers market on the weekend 3. Dine at Brigantine Portside Pier at sunset

LOCAL LIVING: 3 years

AT THE TOP OF MY [2021] BUCKET LIST...

To go on a San Diego speedboat tour.

You can hop in a speedboat and see all the best views from the bay, and if you’re lucky, you might even see a sea lion!

FRESH AS IT GETS

Ò It’s Raw Poke Shop is one of San Diego’s best hidden gems. I like to call it a “super-exclusive” poke shop. The authentic Hawaiian flavors and fresh fish just melt in your mouth. This hidden gem is also within walking distance to the beach. Grab the combo plate and enjoy it on the sand! But take note: the shop is only open Tuesday-Sunday from 11 a.m.5 p.m. And be sure to get there early to avoid lines and get first pick!

AARON LOW @ayelow EDGE CYCLE 1490 J St San Diego, CA 92101 619.324.8680 www.edge-cycle.com

www.itsrawpokeshop.com

FILM FINDS

Ò Being a person that loves to document everything with a disposable camera, finding a place to get the film developed can be tricky. Thankfully, there is Nelson Photo Supplies in Point Loma. They have a quick turnover, and if you ask, they will send the digital files to your email, so you don’t have to make two trips! www.nelsonphotosupplies.com

MAJOR HEART EYES

Ò I like to describe Pigment as a “mood board come to life.” The shop has three locations, and each one is sectioned off by colors and aesthetics. They carry everything from stationery, wellness and lifestyle items to endless amounts of plants, succulents and pots. I bought my first-ever pothos plant here and—believe it or not—she is still alive and thriving! www.shoppigment.com

STRIKE A POSE

Ò When you’re looking for a place to take photos in San Diego, Balboa Park is the spot! From the gorgeous architecture and pavilions to the lush greenery inside and around the botanical gardens, there are ideal photo ops everywhere. www.balboapark.org

LET’S RIDE

Ò I spend a lot of time at indoor cycling studio Edge Cycle where I’m an instructor. As you enter our gorgeous downtown San Diego location, you are greeted with the Insta-worthy wall that reads “F*@k Basic.” Each time you clip in, you enter a new transformative experience of self-love and self-discovery.

Plus, you break a sweat, burn calories and get a major adrenaline rush from the loud music! 10/10—would recommend! www.edge-cycle.com

140 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Photography Provided By: Bella Camerino @bellacamerino | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar

“San Diego has the best community; everyone is so nice, friendly and welcoming.”

alive /// get the deets

“Our f a c i li ty in Costa Mesa was buil t to nur ture b ot h y ou and y our canine friend with p hysi c a l a n d em otional safety, ease of use and c omf or t a s our prim ar y goal s.”

—Owner Lourdes Biancardi

All Natural

Spreading the Love • Instead of competing with your vet, Animal Wellness Center of OC wants to be an additional service for all of your animal’s needs.

ANIMAL WELLNESS CENTER OF OC 449 W Bay St Costa Mesa, CA 92627 949.534.4654 www.animalwellnessoc.com

Changing the Game • There are four spacious treatment rooms—most services are done on the floor, while wall-mounted treatment tables are used for smaller animals.

Costa Mesa

Unleashing Their Full Pet-ential

THIS OC SPOT WILL BE YOUR NEW FAVORITE PLACE TO TAKE YOUR PUP WRITTEN BY: TAYLOR GORSKI PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ARI MOSHAYEDI

There’s no denying that our furry friends are a huge part of our lives. They bring so much joy with their cuddles, wagging tails and the unconditional love they have for us. Whether you’re a recent puppy parent or have had your four-legged companion for quite some time, we’ve got just the spot to put on your radar. Animal Wellness Center of OC is a first-of-its-kind center, offering a range of holistic and integrative therapies for your dog.

T

142

LOCALE MAGAZINE

Heated Swimming Pool • One of the highlights of the facility is a heated swimming pool. At 91 degrees, the pool offers aquatic conditioning for every type of dog.

Swim lessons for your dog are a great lowimpact exercise, and hydrotherapy is used for treating chronic conditions. The warm temperature allows dogs to feel comfortable and relaxed.

Boutique-Like Space • Upon entering the Animal Wellness Center of OC, you’ll realize this is not a vet or a doggie daycare—it’s simply the place you always wished existed for your dog. It’s clean as can be with no dog hair around and no smell of dogs.

Holistic Services • Everything from acupuncture, chiropractic care and hydrotherapy to laser therapy, massage therapy and physical therapy is available.

These holistic services offer a natural approach to your dog’s or cat’s health and wellbeing.

• The center opts for drug-free approaches such as acupuncture, which relieves pain in dogs or cats with arthritis, and chiropractic care, which helps maintain joint health for improved mobility. Massage therapy increases blood circulation and improves strength through simple techniques.

Room to Run • Apart from the inside area, Animal Wellness Center of OC has an entire warehouse space in the back area.

This is where the pool is located along with plenty of space for your dog to exercise.

And that’s not all— outside these doors lies a secluded outdoor space for dogs to roam.

Created With Love • Owners Barb West and Lourdes Biancardi are passionate about animals and giving them the care they truly deserve, which is why they funded this business themselves.

The love they have for animals shows throughout the space and through the attention your dog will be given!

alive /// feature

A

M

Newport Beach

m m u er s id Da y’s Dream Regardless if you’re single, in a relationship or “it’s complicated,” it’s been far less magical having dinner and a cocktail in a parking lot this past year.

Fortunately, the tides are turning and the light at the end of the coronavirus tunnel is shining brighter than ever. Now is the time to jump off your couch to reinvigorate that adventurous part of your dating brain. We’ve put together three dates—ranging from low-cost to splurge status—giving you three reasons to turn your next weekend into one worth talking about.

Good News!

 If you’re into amazing date ideas, Date the City launched its new private text society, so you can discover more than you’ve ever imagined. Sign up at www.datethecity.com.

No Matter Your Budget, These 3 Date Itineraries Will Leave You With a Happy Heart

DATE THE CITY www.datethecity.com @date.the.city

WRITTEN BY: NEAL HRUBY PHOTOGRAPHED BY: KAMBRIA FISCHER

LOCALE MAGAZINE 145

Essentials

4 hours

Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar

$0-30 per person

Casual, summer afternoon look

Timeline

2 p.m.

Explore Noguchi Garden

4 p.m.

Hike Newport’s Back Bay Loop

6 p.m.

Stroll through Roger’s Gardens 146 LOCALE MAGAZINE

NOGUCHI GARDEN 611 Anton Blvd Costa Mesa, CA 92626

llin’ on a Bud a B

STOP 1:

Noguchi Garden  Towering buildings initially catch your eye as you enter the Insta-famous Noguchi Garden. Stepping past rock formations, you wander through the “six elements of California” that the artist so purposely placed nearly 40 years ago.

After striking a pose on a boulder and sneaking a selfie over the stream, you pause for a moment, take a deep breath and appreciate the serenity of it all.

STOP 2:

Back Bay Loop Trail  After a few minutes’ drive, the busy business parks pleasantly evaporate.

In fact, your first steps on the Newport Bay Ecological Reserve’s Back Bay Loop couldn’t be further from a sculpture garden. The day’s sun illuminates natural beauty that’s easily driven

t e g

A Look Back in Time

 By 1975, the year the Newport Bay Ecological Reserve was declared a reserve, less than 10% of Southern California’s coastal wetlands escaped destruction.

Disneyland Meets Roger’s Gardens

 The original Disneyland Bandstand used on it’s opening day has been a permanent fixture of the garden since the ‘70s. Now you can dine inside this gazebo at the garden’s restaurant, Farmhouse.

by any day of the week. You may not opt in for all 10.5 miles of the loop today, but any distance you choose connects you that much closer to the seascape we call home.

www.newportbeachca.gov

STOP 3:

Roger’s Gardens  With that said, not too many places on the Newport Coast scream home like Roger’s Gardens.

Entering the seemingly endless landscape, your childlike instinct to explore takes over. Twisted trees, colorful flowers and crazy creations adorn every inch of the almost 50-year-old institution. It’s a challenge not to leave without a new addition to your place, but after much deliberation, you realize the true gift was the day’s multitude of glorious garden moments. www.rogersgardens.com

Stepping past rock formations, you wander through the “six elements of California” that the artist so purposely placed nearly 40 years ago.

LOCALE MAGAZINE 147

Essentials

3 hours

Newport Beach

$100-150 per person

Beachy-chic ensemble

Timeline

1 p.m.

Rent an Electric Boat in Lido Marina Village

2 p.m.

Cruise the Harbor

4 p.m.

Head to Happy Hour at Tavern House Kitchen + Bar 148 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Photoshoot Locations: LIDO MARINA VILLAGE ELECTRIC BOAT RENTAL 3424 Via Oporto, Ste 101 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.612.8248 www.eboatsrental.com TAVERN HOUSE KITCHEN + BAR 333 Bayside Dr Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.673.8464 www.tavernhousekb.com

Decorate to Impress

 Celebrating something special or just want to look cool? Call Electric Boat Rentals ahead of time to style up your boat with a colorful balloon bouquet expertly covering the top of your vessel.

Planet Earth in Mind

 Adhering to strict protocols surrounding their seafood and plastic usage, Tavern House is recognized as a Platinum Level Ocean-Friendly Restaurant by the Surfrider Foundation.

Dock and Dine

STOP 1:

Lido Marina Village Electric Boat Rentals  The bay is a buzz with daytime cocktailers as you make your way to the Lido Marina Village E-Boat Rental. As you walk down to your fantail chariot, your first big decision is picking out the perfect boat to match your outfit. Pink or blue, you can’t go wrong, as you’ll be chugging along in no time. After a quick overview and Bluetooth set-up, you start the 5-mph chug around the harbor. www.eboatsrental.com

STOP 2:

Cruise the Bay  Coasting past classic cottages and decadent sailboats, you snuggle closer to your loved one as you feel the cool ocean breeze. The passing and pointing at your preferred yacht complete

with a matching mansion opens up the possibility of your fantasies. While waving to groups cheersing on their own electric rides, you realize it’s time for a cocktail of your own.

STOP 3:

Tavern House Kitchen + Bar

 Turning past Linda Island, you begin the team effort of navigating your docking approach to Tavern House Kitchen + Bar. Once tied up, the next challenge is deciding what you’ll order from the vibrant menu. Keeping it light-ish, you opt for the spicy poke, a Santa Fe Caesar and a pear flatbread. The moment wouldn’t be complete without a fresh watermelon mojito and a loving Dusty Rose cocktail, complete with a red rose garnish. The perfect couple to clank together, signaling the end to another day on the water. www.tavernhousekb.com

While waving to groups cheersing on their own electric rides, you realize it’s time for a cocktail of your own.

LOCALE MAGAZINE 149

Essentials

4 hours

Newport Beach, Costa Mesa

$150-400 per person

Your Sunday best

Timeline

11 a.m.

Rent a Car and Drive the Coast

12 p.m.

Shop ‘til You Drop at A’maree’s

2 p.m.

Enjoy Lunch at Knife Pleat 150 LOCALE MAGAZINE

KNIFE PLEAT 3333 S Bristol St, Ste 3001 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.266.3388 www.knifepleat.com

e g r to Impre a E

ss

Rev Your Engines

 The daily rental rate for an exotic car typically

starts at 1% of the vehicle's value. Note: the cheapest Lamborghini, the Urus, sells for $211,000.

Little Did You Know

 The eclectic house of A’maree’s was originally built for

restaurants. After multiple tenants were shut down due to noise complaints, the building sat for 13 years before falling into their hands.

STOP 1:

Luxury Exotic Car Rentals  Visions of grandeur wouldn’t be unwelcomed as you pass the hyper cars outside Luxury Exotic Car Rentals. With the universe at your fingertips, your difficult decision is picking a perfect ride for the day. Do you go convertible? Do you go Lambo? Does it even matter at 100 mph? After dialing in your muscled machine, you pull up to PCH with only one thing to do: put the pedal to the metal. www.luxuryexoticcarrentalshuntingtonbeach.com

STOP 2: A’maree’s

 After a joy ride down the coast, a break from the wheel is welcomed at the beautiful A’maree’s. Massive windows shine light on the curated fashion and home decor hand-picked from the sisters who’ve been styling here for over a decade. In

between picking out your next favorite top, you gaze out at the boats passing closely by in the harbor.

After stocking up on a few new additions, it’s time for the penthouse. www.amarees.com

STOP 3: Knife Pleat

 Make your way to South Coast Plaza to unwind with a delicious meal. Passing world-renowned designers, it’s no surprise to see the incredible style of Knife Pleat. You start at the bar with a Yohji Yamamoto or Yves Saint Laurent cocktail, which are created with the designers in mind. You then leisurely make your way to the patio for a lunch fit for a French afternoon. After your wines are poured, the lobster Caesar and spring risotto arrive like art pieces. They’re the perfect light addition to slow down the fast day. www.knifepleat.com

“You then leisurely make your way to the patio for a lunch fit for a French afternoon.”

LOCALE MAGAZINE 151

alive /// spotlight

Palm Springs

GIVING BACK

Proba has a longterm plan to foster creativity in kids and to help those in need. Right before the pandemic, she started a project called “Little Proba.”

In her first creative workshop, Proba led kids in New York City and Portland through the process of creating colorful paper collages, which were transformed into rugs. The proceeds benefited Save the Children and The Young Center for Children’s Immigrant Rights.

ARTIST ALEX PROBA BRINGS THE MUNDANE TO LIFE WITH A WHIRL OF VIBRANT DESIGNS WRITTEN BY: LYNNE EODICE Although she came from a family of doctors, Alex Proba found her niche in artistic pursuits.

Proba does everything from branding work and graphic design to abstract art. “I try to touch every type of surface,” she explains.

“I see everything in life as a canvas.” Proba’s commissioned work appears at unique locations like basketball courts, bars, swimming pools and hotel walls.

“These are applications where people don’t normally think about doing art,” she says.

Proba began painting as a teenager. She later attended design school and started creating visual art several years into her career. A client

WEARING MANY HATS

“My business is all me,” Proba comments. She does it all, from design and inception to fulfillment and shipping. “Maybe one day I’ll have a team to help me, but it’s only me right now.”

152 LOCALE MAGAZINE

A PROUD MOMENT

ALEX PROBA www.studioproba.com @alexproba

“IT NEVER GETS BORING FOR ME. ONE DAY I’LL BE PAINTING, AND THE NEXT DAY, I’LL BE DESIGNING.” —ALEX PROBA

approached her to paint a mural, and even though she had never done one, she was up for the challenge. That first job evolved into more murals and commissioned artwork for Proba, who says that she has worked as an artist since 2013, but it’s only been in the last three years that she’s been able to make it a full-time career. “In the past, I worked for an agency or start-up company at the same time that I was running my studio.”

What inspires her? “I always seek out the unexpected and what is hard to figure out. I try to make it work,” she replies.

One of her most known art forms is painting the bottoms of pools; she paints the surfaces with

It took Proba a long time to convince her parents that she wasn’t going to become a starving artist. Then in 2015, she created a collection that was featured in The New York Times. “At that point, my dad began to see that I was doing something right.”

bright colors that are atypical of traditional pools. “Pools are a good example because the water is always a turquoise color that we all see.” She enjoys the transformation that occurs when the pool is painted to when it’s full of water.

“It gives a new dimension to my work—adding nature on top of it and seeing what happens.”

One of her favorite aspects of her career is being able to do something different every day. “It never gets boring for me,” Proba says. “One day I’ll be painting, and the next day, I’ll be designing.”

Equally rewarding is seeing people’s delighted reactions. “I want to make people happy with my work.”

Photography Provided By: Alex Proba, Madeline Tolle & Frances May

Started From the Bottom...

“I SEE EVERYTHING IN LIFE AS A CANVAS.” —ALEX PROBA

Photos - Tanner’s at Paséa Hotel & Spa: Paséa Hotel & Spa | Mama Shelter | The Nolen: Haley Hill Photography | High Bar at Kimpton Rowan: Kimpton Rowan

Orange County

Greater Palm Springs

ROOFTOP

Tanner’s at Paséa Hotel & Spa

Rendezvous

High Bar at Kimpton Rowan

The Nolen

Mama Shelter

CELEBRATE SUMMER WITH A SKYHIGH SOIREE ON ONE OF THESE TRENDY ROOFTOPS WRITTEN BY: ALLIE LEBOS ILLUSTRATIONS BY: VICENTE MARTÍ SOLAR

With warm weather and cold drinks bound to be the status quo for this summer, what better place to enjoy the best time of the year than on a scenic and stylish rooftop? For lucky SoCal dwellers, the array of rooftop bars and restaurants seems endless. From hotspots with unique craft cocktails to finding the best view in your city, we have you covered on the most stunning and fun rooftops in Southern California.

San Diego

Los Angeles LOCALE MAGAZINE 155

Flowers on the Wall Tanner’s

Editor’s Picks MUST ORDER

MUST ORDER

Made with: Belvedere, lime, orgeat, pineapple, crème de violette

Orange County • The Treehouse Lounge at Tanner’s in Huntington Beach is a chic and popular patio bar that offers floorto-ceiling ocean views and refreshing craft cocktails. It is by far one of the best spots in HB for a nightcap after dinner! Plus, you’ll be able to post a trendy ‘Gram under the towering man-made tree.

Huntington Beach www.tannershb.com

Hive & Honey • For those in Irvine looking for a good time with even better views of the city, Hive & Honey needs to be at the top of your list! This beautiful and modern bar serves drinks and small bites in an open-air, lantern-lit setting.

Irvine www.hhrooftopbar.com

Mozambique • With live music on the weekends and spectacular Pacific Ocean views, Mozambique in Laguna Beach does it all to create the perfect rooftop ambiance. From their top-ranked wood-fired steaks and seafood to their unbeatable everyday happy hour, Mozambique is sure to impress.

Laguna Beach www.mozambiqueoc.com

The Fifth • With more than 5,000 square feet of space, The Fifth in Anaheim boasts a massive, open-air rooftop patio that serves up some of the tastiest food in town. Though there are no ocean views, the magical views of Disneyland are just as good!

Anaheim www.thefifthoc.com

Served with: Black truffle aioli

Made with: Empress 1908 gin, fresh lemon juice, agave nectar, topped with champagne and tonic

Chorizo Mac ‘n Cheese The Fifth Served with: Fondue and bread crumbs

Mama Shelter

MUST ORDER

Chef’s Selection Terra Made with: Italian cured meats & cheeses MUST ORDER

Where Love Lives EP & LP

MUST ORDER

Hibiscus Bliss Broken Shaker

Mozambique

MUST ORDER

MUST ORDER

Editor’s Picks

Made with: El Silencio Mezcal, damiana, passionfruit, guava, Thai chili and lime

Tanner’s at Paséa Hotel & Spa

Laguna Sky Mozambique

Made with: Grey Goose peach and rosemary essence, martini fiero, fennel syrup, lemon and grapefruit juice, topped with June Shine hibiscus kombucha MUST ORDER

Los Angeles

E.P. & L.P.

• Located on the corner of La Cienega Blvd in one of the most exclusive areas of West Hollywood, E.P. & L.P. is the type of place where people go to see and be seen. With breathtaking views of the Hollywood Hills, E.P. & L.P. truly provides the quintessential LA experience.

West Hollywood www.eplosangeles.com

Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles • With a crystal-clear pool sitting right near the bar, Broken Shaker transports you from the heart of downtown LA to a Tiki Bar in Hawaii within a matter of minutes.

Don’t miss out on their vibrant craft cocktails that are infused with homemade elixirs!

Downtown Los Angeles

lounge, Mama Shelter is the ideal spot for a large group or celebration!

Hollywood

www.mamashelter.com

Terra at Eataly • With a classic wood-burning grill and expansive views of Los Angeles, Terra at Eataly in Century City serves up some of the best and most authentic Italian food in all of Los Angeles. Make sure to shop around Eataly after your meal for some scrumptious Italian treats.

Century City

www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/los-angeles/ la-terra

www.freehandhotels.com/los-angeles/ broken-shaker

Mama Shelter Mama’s Meatballs Mama Shelter Served with: Parmesan and garlic toast 156 LOCALE MAGAZINE

• Mama Shelter is a European hotel chain that made big news when it opened its colorful and unique rooftop restaurant in Hollywood.

With endless games and places to

Broken Shaker

Photos - Tanner’s at Paséa Hotel & Spa: Paséa Hotel & Spa | Mozambique: Carlos Valle | Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles: Frank Lee | Mama Shelter

Tanner’s at Paséa Hotel & Spa

Rosemary Garlic Fries Hive & Honey

Editor’s Picks

Greater Palm Springs

MUST ORDER

Aperol Spritz High Bar The Nolen

Made with: Aperol, Mionetto Prosecco, Fever Tree soda water

FLOAT at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

MUST ORDER

Azucar at La Serena Villas

Watermelon Salad Azucar Made with: Sheep’s milk feta, roasted pistachios, honey lime drizzle and golden balsamic pearls

Photos - FLOAT Rooftop Bar: Hard Rock Hotel San Diego | The Nolen: Haley Hill Photography | High Bar at Kimpton Rowan: Kimpton Rowan | Azucar at La Serena Villas: La Serena Villas

San Diego

MUST ORDER High Bar at Kimpton Rowan

Mission Pacific Hotel

The Nolen

• The rooftop bar at the all-new Mission Pacific Hotel is the first of its kind in the northern San Diego County area. This poolside bar serves up Mexican-style street food and spectacular mixed drinks to match!

Oceanside

• Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, The Nolen provides guests with views that go as far as the Coronado Bridge. Their laid-back yet modern atmosphere makes The Nolen a wonderful spot for a date or drinks with friends.

Gaslamp Quarter

www.missionpacifichotel.com

www.thenolenrooftop.com

Catania • Catania is a popular rooftop restaurant in La Jolla that whips up some of the best Italian food in the area. Bright blue skies, a peak at the ocean and that beloved California breeze await! Be sure to check out their gourmet brunch menu with items like the Smoked Salmon Bruschetta, Eggs all ’Amatriciana and Walnut Caramel Cinnamon Roll!

La Jolla www.cataniasd.com

High Bar at Kimpton Rowan Ahi Tuna Tartare Pacifica Seafood Restaurant Made with: Sake-soy sesame marinade, avocado, mango, wasabi aioli, wasabi tobiko caviar and chili oil

FLOAT at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

MUST ORDER

• On the rooftop of the iconic Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego lies FLOAT. This stylish oasis is the perfect spot to soak up the sun poolside during the day and dance into the night with their live music.

Gaslamp Quarter

www.hardrockhotels.com/san-diego/floatrooftop-bar.aspx

Pretty Ricky FLOAT Rooftop Bar

Editor’s Picks MUST ORDER

Made With: Old Grove Gin, lime, cucumber and simple syrup

• Nothing screams Palm Springs more than a rooftop bar with a pool (and maybe a flamingo floatie)! High Bar at Kimpton Rowan sits atop seven stories, offering transcendent desert views. Take a dip in the pool, and sip on classic and retro cocktails, local craft beers and crisp wines.

This rooftop pool oasis features a color palette of blues, grays, whites and warm wood tones that exude a playful daytime feel that fades to swanky and seductive after sunset.

Palm Springs www.rowanpalmsprings.com

Stingray 4 Saints Made with: Cointreau, lemon, strawberry and rhubarb

MUST ORDER

Azucar at La Serena Villas • Azucar is a 21+ restaurant that puts a modern spin on tapas and Mediterranean plates. With a Diavola Catania

Ought to Be You The Nolen Made with: Sherry Vanilla syrup, lemon and eggwhite bitters

MUST ORDER

Made with: Tomato, mozzarella and spicy Calabrese salami

oh-so-trendy bohemian rooftop deck called Sugar High that boasts dreamy views of the San Jacinto Mountains, Azucar is a must-stop in Palm Springs. This modern Moroccan hotspot boasts a whimsical setting with an unpretentious “I’m on vacation” vibe.

Palm Springs

www.azucarpalmsprings.com

Pacifica Seafood Restaurant • For those looking for something a bit more elegant and formal, Pacifica Seafood Restaurant in Palm Springs has been serving up smiles (and the freshest seafood) to diners for over 15 years. Come for their renowned service, but stay for the mountain vistas from their enchanting rooftop patio.

Palm Desert www.pacificaseafoodrestaurant.com

MUST ORDER

Oysters Mission Pacific Hotel Made with: Two types of oysters from California

LOCALE MAGAZINE 157

alive /// 24 hours

9:30 a.m.

Breakfast in Paris Ú What better way to start your day than with a cappuccino and croissant from Ladurée in Beverly Hills! Make sure to grab macarons to go, so you’re equipped when your sweet tooth kicks in. Experience a true taste of Paris before setting off on a day full of luxury.

That’s Where I Wanna Be P U T YOUR S UN N IE S O N F O R A F U LL DAY I N TH E 90210 WRITTEN BY: ALLIE LEBOS

Beverly Hills is a famous community known for its stellar shopping, upscale restaurants and high-profile residents. From fast cars to high-end shops, everyone deserves a taste of the unmatched glitz and glam of the 90210. Being that the array of options and activities in Beverly Hills are endless, we’ve put together a full 24-hour itinerary to ensure that you get the most out of your visit. Our guide to having the best day in Beverly Hills will have you eating good, looking good and feeling good!

B

LADURÉE

Beverly Hills

www.laduree.fr/en/ laduree-beverly-hills.html

10:30 a.m.

A Walk in the Park Ú There’s nothing quite like seeing the famed Beverly Hills sign in all its glory at the serene Beverly Gardens Park. Snap some scenic shots of the massive palm tree-lined streets and soak up the sun while (actually) smelling the roses. www.beverlyhills.org

THEBlvd Privé

11:00 a.m.

Stop and Stare Ú Let your artistic side run wild as you tour the newly opened Casa Perfect Art Gallery, located inside a beautiful mansion designed by famed architect Raul F. Garduno. Pro tip: be sure to book your appointment in advance!

12:30 p.m.

Wine and Dine Ú While LA is the ideal spot for al fresco dining, THEBlvd Privé’s outdoor popup experience is the perfect way to indulge in a diverse lunch.

With flavors that span from the east to the west, diners are sure to leave with full bellies and smiles of satisfaction. theblvdrestaurant.com

158 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Iconic Is an Understatement Ú Ready to shop ‘til you drop? Whether you’re looking to simply window shop and wish, or you’re in the market for a new Henry Jacques perfume, Rodeo Drive will impress any and all visitors.

BEVERLY GARDENS PARK

5:00 p.m.

BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL

Kick Your Feet Up Ú Nothing says “Beverly Hills” quite like an evening at the spa. Relax and rejuvenate after a busy day with an UMA Oil Massage, or indulge in a Power Glow Facial at the legendary Beverly Hills Hotel.

parfumshenryjacques.com

4:00 p.m.

Tea Time at The Peninsula Ú Settle in for tea, treats and champagne at The Peninsula’s “secret garden.”

This one-of-a-kind experience will make you feel like the queen (or king) you truly are.

Pinkies up!

dorchestercollection. com/en/los-angeles/thebeverly-hills-hotel/spa

7:00 p.m.

www.peninsula.com/en/ beverly-hills

THE PENINSULA

Rooftop Digs Ú Soak in the unbeatable rooftop view at The Beverly Hilton’s stunning Sant’olina restaurant.

With a Mediterranean menu and craft cocktails that will make you swoon, there is no better place to wrap up

an evening in sunny LA. www.santolinabh.com

9:00 p.m.

Lights Out Ú As you end your evening in the luxurious linens of The Maybourne Beverly Hills, take the time to reflect and reminisce

on your perfect day with a nightcap and chocolate caramel fondant cake sent directly to your room.

After a day like this, your dreams are sure to be just as sweet as the cake!

www.maybournebeverlyhills.com

Photos - Courtesy of Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau

www.thefutureperfect. com/casa/about-casa

2:00 p.m.

alive /// 24 hours

Breath of Fresh Air

10 a.m.

EMERALD LAKE HOUSE www.airbnb.com/ rooms/42661527

BELGIAN WAFFLE WORKS www.belgianwaffle.com

Stylish Staycation Ú Modern California meets Scandinavian chic at the swoonworthy Emerald Lake House Airbnb.

Originally remodeled

by LA tastemaker Jenni Kayne, this threestory cabin enjoys Emerald Bay views from every room.

Lake Arrowhead

DISCOVERING “THE ALPS” OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EMERALD LAKE HOUSE

WRITTEN BY: KERI BRIDGWATER

8 a.m.

Breakfast Food Favs Ú Fuel up for the day at long-standing local favorite Belgian Waffle Works. Menu musttrys at the dockside eatery include its decadent Monte Cristo waffle sandwich with ham, turkey and melted cheese and the Belgian Breakfast.

With its peaceful San Bernardino Mountain setting featuring exclusive holiday homes, local shops and restaurants, the charming resort community of Lake Arrowhead has long been a favorite underthe-radar escape for SoCal locals in the know. Take a break from the beach this summer and plan a day trip to “The Alps of Southern California” for a weekend of outdoor hiking, eco-adventures, fresh air, great food, wine tasting, shopping and scenic views.

W

11 a.m.

Take a Hike Ú A haven for nature enthusiasts, the 30-acre flower and wildlifefilled Heaps Peak Arboretum and its botanical garden are home to the Sequoia Trail, an almost milelong loop that rewards hikers with a grove of giant sequoias.

HEAPS PEAK ARBORETUM www.hparboretum.com

12:45 p.m.

Adventure Awaits Ú The holiday spirit might be strong yearround at SkyPark at Santa’s Village, but a range of activities— from mountain biking and axe throwing to ziplining and fly fishing—are also available at this outdoor adventure park.

SKYPARK AT SANTA’S VILLAGE skyparksantasvillage.com 160 LOCALE MAGAZINE

2 p.m.

Espresso Yourself Ú Post up at Higher Grounds Coffee House in Crestline for single-origin pours, mixed blends, blooming teas or a raw local wildflower honey latte. Be sure to try a cookie or chocolate cream puff from the pastry case!

EMERALD LAKE HOUSE

3 p.m.

HIGHER GROUNDS COFFEE HOUSE @hgcoffeehouse

2:30 p.m.

Gifts and Goodies Ú The hipster-chic Hearth & Sage General Store is well stocked with ethically made gifts and goods, local apparel, pottery lines, home decor, gourmet pantry staples and natural apothecary items for people and pets.

HEARTH & SAGE GENERAL STORE www.hearthandsage.com

THE LAKEFRONT TAP ROOM BAR & KITCHEN

Uncorked Ú Wine tastings, which clock in at 90 minutes, are by appointment only at Sycamore Ranch Vineyard & Winery, whose owners specialize in Rhôneand Bordeaux-style wines, several of which are produced from their onsite, 3.5acre vineyard.

SYCAMORE RANCH VINEYARD & WINERY www.sycamoreranch.com

5 p.m.

HIGHER GROUNDS COFFEE HOUSE

Heard It Through the... Ú With an outside deck framed by sparkling Lake Arrowhead views, The Grapevine is a destination wine bar, ideal for happy hour drinks and gourmet

bites before dinner.

Try the tasty baconwrapped dates and traditional Swiss cheese fondue.

THE GRAPEVINE thegrapevinestore.com

7 p.m.

Those Views Though Ú Next, stroll over to The Lakefront Tap Room for (more)

gorgeous views, great cocktails and microbrews with dinner. Gastropub menu favorites include the bar’s namesake American Kobe Wagyu burger and a new addition: vegetarian falafel gyros.

THE LAKEFRONT TAP ROOM BAR & KITCHEN www.lftaproom.com

Photos - Emerald Lake House: Tessa Neustadt | SkyPark at Santa’s Village: Jericho Patrick | Higher Grounds Coffee: Of Love Photo | The Lakefront Tap Room: Alex Sillas

SKYPARK AT SANTA’S VILLAGE

On a Mission T HIS TIN Y TOWN IS F U L L O F H I S TO RY A N D PL ACE S TO EAT, PL AY A N D S TAY WRITTEN BY: KAYLIN WAIZINGER

San Juan Capistrano

INN AT THE MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

9 a.m.

10 a.m.

innatthemissionsjc.com

hiddenhousecoffee.com

Check In Ú Pack your bags and check in to the stunning, all-new Inn at the Mission in the heart of downtown! This stunning hotel effortlessly aligns with the town’s history, balancing old-world elements with modernday amenities. You’ll fall in love with the haciendastyle rooms and missioninspired architecture.

Fuel Your Day Ú Tucked behind the California Amtrak station, Hidden House Coffee is a neighborhood nook that’s served up fresh beans and baked goods for over a decade. This little yellow house is a cozy, serene spot for a cup of joe and good conversation.

Stationed just off the coast near Dana Point lies the historic town of San Juan Capistrano.

This quaint community offers locals and visitors something other than surf and sand. Spatterings of Spanish architecture and a charming medley of locally owned restaurants, breweries, cafes and shops make San Juan the ideal day trip destination. Here’s the only itinerary you’ll need to explore the nooks of this hidden enclave.

S

MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

11 a.m.

Making History Ú Set on 10 acres, Mission San Juan Capistrano is home to lush gardens, ruins of the Great Stone Church and the Serra Chapel—the oldest church in California!

This historic landmark and museum was founded over 200 years ago and is the birthplace of Orange County. Take a tour and discover religious artifacts, one-of-a-kind treasures and paintings. www.missionsjc.com

12 p.m.

Let the Brunching Begin Ú Not everything in San Juan is old—in fact, the town is home to an assortment of trendy, modern eateries that’ll make your Insta feed look fuego. Mayfield is one of our favorites!

162 LOCALE MAGAZINE

This Mediterraneaninspired restaurant is outfitted with marble countertops, pink leather booths and midmod furniture, making it the ultimate spot for a sit-down brunch.

MAYFIELD RESTAURANT & MARKET

friendly farm with a petting zoo, train rides, mining station, playground and more.

Watch as your kiddos hold and pet guinea pigs and feed animals like goats, sheep, rabbits and pigs!

www.mayfieldoc.com

1 p.m.

Bring on the BBQ Ú There’s nothing quite like authentic Texas barbecue! Smoky beef ribs, brisketstuffed sandwiches and baked beans are the comfort foods of our great nation. This farm-to-table restaurant serves up smoked meats and decadent sides in a casual “picnic table” setting.

www.zoomars.com

3:30 p.m.

www.heritagecraftbbq.com

2 p.m.

Hold Your Horses Ú Located just across the train tracks lies Zoomars, a family-

RANCHO CAPISTRANO WINERY

HERITAGE BARBEQUE

Pinkies Up! Ú The Tea House on Los Rios is a homey spot with a dreamy garden patio—perfect for afternoon sippin’.

This historic hideaway not only offers a variety of loose-leaf teas, but also serves traditional English fare with a California twist. Try the tasty Farmer’s Market Vegetable Quiche! theteahouseonlosrios.com

5 p.m.

An Organic Experience Ú In the heart of San Juan lies a 28-acre regenerative organic farm—one of the only ones left in the county. The Ecology Center is a “living system, classroom and laboratory” with an on-site farmstand that sells a variety of fresh, seasonal produce. www.theecologycenter.org

7 p.m.

On Cloud Wine When it comes to fun for the grown-ups, Rancho Capistrano Winery is the ideal spot for a glass of white, red or rosé. Snag a seat on the winery’s 300-square-foot patio and choose from over 40 award-winning wines to sip on. ranchocapwinery.com

Photos - Inn at the Mission: Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection | Mayfield | Mission San Juan Capistrano | Heritage Barbeque: John Troxell | Rancho Capistrano Winery: Giuseppe DeMasi

alive /// 24 hours

9 a.m.

alive /// 24 hours

A Walk in the Park

Whole Latte Love Ú Start your morning with a cold brew or one of Communal Coffee’s specialty lattes. This adorable coffee shop serves bites and beverages out of a restored vintage trailer. It’s the perfect place to get your caffeine kick and take lots of cute photos.

South Park

TAKE A DAY TRIP TO SAN DIEGO’S URBAN SOUTH PARK NEIGHBORHOOD COMMUNAL COFFEE

WRITTEN BY: CARMEN VARNER

www.communalcoffee.com

10 a.m.

Flower Power Ú Native Poppy’s wild and whimsical gardenstyle design and friendly florists make it the ideal spot to pick up some beautiful blooms. Pick from the daily flower menu or choose between arranged bouquets and wearables like flower hair combs and boutonnieres. www.nativepoppy.com

Enjoy a weekend adventuring through one of San Diego’s charming urban neighborhoods that’s home to over 70 small businesses, good views, good times and good food. Despite being over 100 years old, the tree-lined neighborhood of South Park feels fresh and hip—complete with vibrant street art. Spend the day snacking on tasty eats, sipping craft drinks and popping into a variety of unique independent shops. Here’s a nine-stop itinerary for a “daycay” in one of San Diego’s hippest enclaves.

E

KINDRED

11 a.m

www.barkindred.com

1 p.m.

Walk It Out Ú Aid your afterbrunch digestion with a leisurely nature walk.

Juniper Canyon’s trails provide plenty of walking space to stretch your legs and soak in that California sunshine.

Keep an eye out for the native San Diego plants and fauna. There’s ample parking, and you can bring your pup too! www.sandiego.gov/parkand-recreation/parks 164 LOCALE MAGAZINE

2 p.m.

Gold Mine Ú Don’t leave South Park empty-handed.

The curated selection of goodies and gifts from Gold Leaf make it a must-stop shop.

They truly have a bit of everything—from trendy doormats and intention bracelets to brass bookmarks and apothecary items.

COMMUNAL COFFEE

4:30 p.m.

goldleafsouthpark.com

3 p.m.

Let’s Go Cocoa Ú Eclipse Chocolate Bar, Bistro & Bodega is a family business that crafts Fairtradecertified couverture chocolate. Try the build-a-bar option and create your own chocolatey masterpiece from their selection of 30 botanicals, fruits, nuts, spices and salts from around the globe.

store.eclipsechocolate.com

BUONA FORCHETTA

Girl, Put Your Records On Ú From funk to punk, you’ll find all that jazz at Vinyl Junkies Record Shack. It’s a must-visit for music lovers! They carry everything from records and cassette tapes to turntables, stereo gear and memorabilia from every genre. www.vinyljunkies.net

6 p.m.

GOLD LEAF

Ciao Down Ú For an authentic taste of Italy, dine at Buona Forchetta in the heart of Liberty Station. Feast on Neapolitan-style pies, homemade pasta and northern Italian entrees. If you’re feeling adventurous,

ask your server about the special of the day. buonaforchettasd.com

8 p.m.

Stop and Smell the Rosé Ú The Rose Wine Bar is dedicated to serving natural wines

made with organically grown and native grapes with minimal additives. Join their wine club or bring a bottle home with you by purchasing from their bottle shop.

www.therosewinebar.com

Photos - Communal Coffee: Let’s Frolic Together | KINDRED: Jim Sullivan | Gold Leaf | Buona Forchetta: Kambria Fischer

Brunch o’Clock Ú Get your grub on with Kindred’s plantbased menu that is meant to dazzle your eyes and taste buds simultaneously. Don’t leave brunch without trying their Crusties, which are made with bánh mì French toast sticks, banana custard, powdered sugar and mint.

escape PHOTO PROVIDED BY: Bali Interiors - Sheila Man • DESIGN 4 CORNERS 5315 Avenida Encinas, Ste 230, Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 760.696.0502 | www.design4corners.com | @sistersof4corners

June 2021 /// celebration. serenity. adventure.

San Diego

188

How to Make

Totally Tropical A Globally Inspired Aesthetic Anchors the Exquisite Interiors of Design 4 Corners

LOCALE MAGAZINE 167

escape /// living like a local

Keys to the City Where You’ll Spot These Real Estate Gurus in OC

Newport Beach NAMES: Cedric Channels and Blake Nelle JOB TITLES: Owners of Channels Group Real Estate

3 FAVORITE SPOTS IN ORANGE COUNTY:

RESIDENTS OF: Newport Beach and Costa Mesa

1. Stotts Atelier 2. Lido Marina Village 3. Haute Cakes Caffe

LOCAL LIVING: 40 years combined

LOOKING TO PURCHASE A HOME?

Get your financing in order first. Then, make sure you work with a realtor that has local market knowledge and a dedicated team to walk you through the entire buying process—not all houses are what they seem. The more your realtor knows about a community, the safer the investment will be.

“We help local people get the most for their homes through our concierge real estate experience.

When we find someone their perfect home, we introduce them into the community through this great network we’ve built over the years.”

Ò Dover Shores and East Side Costa Mesa are our favorite neighborhoods to sell in Orange County. The energy of the homeowners and buyers is contagious.

We love meeting new and young, motivated people!

Photoshoot Location: HAUTE CAKES CAFFE 1807 Westcliff Dr Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.642.4114 | www.hautecakes.cafe

www.channelsgroupre.com

ON THE GO

Ò Eastside Mini-Mart is a drive-thru market off 17th St that has everything a grocery store has to offer at a reasonable price. They sell an amazing selection of craft beer, wine and healthy lunch and snack options. Drive under the white and green sign for a quick and easy stop. www.eastsideminimart.com

168 LOCALE MAGAZINE

ECCENTRIC MEETS INSPIRED

Ò Parker Palm Springs is definitely a favorite place to go for a weekend away. This desert hideaway is all sorts of funky with its colorful decor and stylish design. The midcentury architecture takes you back in time for a weekend getaway in the sun. www.parkerpalmsprings.com

WINE DOWN

Ò The atmosphere is vibrant at Arc in Newport Beach! We’ve never left without saying that we had a good time and a fantastic meal. The wine list and pricing are exceptional, and the 24oz ribeye is our favorite item on the menu. www.arcrestaurant.com

HERE TO HELP

Ò Finding a house and moving can be an overwhelming process, so we have created a concierge system to make that process more enjoyable. There’s nothing better than having a client thank you at the end of a transaction for making the process easy. www.channelsgroupre.com

Photographed By: Ari Moshayedi | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar

CHANNELS GROUP REAL ESTATE 949.335.6342 www.channelsgroupre.com @cgre_tv

HOME SWEET HOME

escape /// living like a local

Keepin’ It “Real” in CDM This Real Estate Guru Lets Us in on His Corona del Mar Favorites

Newport Beach NAME: Casey Lesher JOB TITLE: Realtor at Coldwell Banker

3 THINGS TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A HOUSE:

RESIDENT OF: North Tustin

1. Location!

2. Quality of workmanship 3. Does my agent have experience here?

LOCAL LIVING: 5 years

HOME SWEET HOME

I have been honored to represent every single seller and buyer that I have, which has contributed to my success of being No. 1 in CDM. I love what I do, and buying and selling someone’s home is usually their largest investment. It’s an honor to be chosen to represent them in this process.

“I love Corona del Mar. I say this everyday: everybody has got to live in CDM once or twice in their life. The charm, the atmosphere, the location, the diverse type of homes, the walkability, everything about it—it’s perfect for outgoing people that love to be outdoors and talk to people.”

MEET YOU AT THE MARKET

CASEY LESHER 840 Newport Center Dr, Ste 100 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.702.7047 www.caseylesher.com @caseylesher

www.coronadelmarfarmersmarket.com

CUP OF JOE

Ò I love Reborn Coffee because the owner, Andrea Sotomayor, is an entrepreneur and an independent local business owner. She is passionate about coffee like I’m passionate about real estate. The quality of the coffee is an example of her enthusiasm and love for it. It’s a high-end coffee house, and I love to support a local business owner. www.reborncoffee.com

170 LOCALE MAGAZINE

SHOPPIN’ AROUND

Ò I love Cloistered Collection and the owner, Georgia Vanites Ingram. She and I are friends and support each other in our business relationships. I list her homes, and I buy from her shop. You can buy the most exquisite gift for the person who has everything here. The shop is right behind my office, and it’s one of CDM’s best-kept secrets. www.cloisteredcollection.com

STOP AND SMELL THE FLOWERS

Ò I adore Blooms! I came to Blooms when my cat (who I loved) passed away.

The girls are so sweet. They made arrangements for me; the flowers are always perfect. You can get the most perfect arrangement for the most critical person. I deal with a lot of highend clients with exquisite taste, but everybody loves these flowers. www.brownesflowers.com

HEALTH IS WEALTH

Ò I have a love-hate relationship with Sejuiced. I love Sejuiced because I love to eat—and I can overdo it—but I know if I go to Sejuiced and get their three-day cleanse, it clears my head and makes me feel good. The mind clarity is most amazing, and losing weight is a nice side effect too. It’s brutal because it’s a liquid diet for three days, but by the fourth day, you’re feeling great. www.sejuicedbar.com

Photographed By: Chad Mellon | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar

Ò I go to the CDM Farmers Market every Saturday, and I have for years.

I hand out my reusable Casey Lesher bags, and I get to talk to everybody and let everyone know what’s coming on the market. I get to see my old clients along with meeting new ones, and it’s a wonderful place to be in the middle of the community. Rick Heil, the manager, is amazing and critical about who comes in here. It’s the real deal.

escape /// feature

Nourish Wellness • [wel-nis] n.

THE STATE OF BEING IN GOOD HEALTH, ESPECIALLY AS AN ACTIVELY PURSUED GOAL.

While each individual celebrates and works toward wellness in their own ways, a weekend escape allowing you to reset, recharge and unplug is something we all could use (okay, I’ll say it: especially after this past year). Whether you’re searching for mornings filled with yoga and green juice or sleeping in and enjoying breakfast in bed, we’ve rounded up the most magical, relaxing and serene hotels where you can finally let out a sigh of relief.

The TOP PLACES to Revel in Wellness While Relaxing and Recharging W R I T T E N BY: TAY LO R G O R S K I

to Flourish LOCALE MAGAZINE 173

escape /// feature

West Hollywood

Los Angeles

Ojai

Santa Monica

Ojai

3 4

Ojai Valley Inn

Rancho Palos Verdes

About an 80-mile drive north from Los Angeles, Ojai is a magical escape from city life. Whether you’re searching for adventure or a place to relax and unplug, a trip to the stunning Ojai Valley Inn will hit the spot.

Best Time to Visit: • If you’re looking to soak up the sun, the summer months bring about warmth that’s ideal for lounging by the pool or taking an early-morning hike.

Lovely weather year-round makes it a desired destination.

Don’t Miss:

2

1 Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

• A round of golf, trip to the spa, cocktails at Wallace Neff Heritage Bar, a fun game of tennis...the list of activities available at Ojai Valley Inn goes on and on.

SANTA MONICA

• There’s nothing quite as relaxing as staying in a hotel with ocean views. Falling asleep to the sound of the waves and waking up to cotton candy skies is a dream in and of itself. Take a stroll through the sand, sip a few cocktails by the pool and escape your normal routine for a weekend under the Santa Monica palms.

www.loewshotels.com/santamonica

Did You Know?

Malibu

2 Calamigos Guest Ranch MALIBU

• The best of both worlds, Calamigos Guest Ranch offers guests the experience of an exclusive beach club along with a private, 250-acre ranch.

Tucked away from it all and immersed in the peaceful town of Malibu, you’ll leave here feeling rejuvenated and recharged. Visit Spa Calamigos for a healing chakra massage to top off the weekend. calamigosguestranch.com

174 LOCALE MAGAZINE

3 Pendry West Hollywood

WEST HOLLYWOOD

• Luxurious, chic and modern, Pendry West Hollywood is the epitome of a glamorous West Hollywood hotel.

While the amenities and sights are plentiful here, don’t skip out on visiting Spa Pendry. Book a facial, the Relaxing Stone Ritual massage and a manicure for a day full of self-care. www.pendry.com/westhollywood

4 Terranea Resort

RANCHO PALOS VERDES

• From the four swimming pools to the luscious green golf course overlooking the ocean, Terranea is an extraordinary stay on the California coast. Indulge in the tranquility massage and you’ll soon be feeling like a new person! Whether you’re a California local or an out-of-town visitor, this resort is something you have to experience at least once in your life. www.terranea.com

• Casa Elar is a private, exclusive, overthe-top vacation rental located at Ojai Valley Inn that features five bedrooms, your own pool, access to a Bentleyinspired golf cart and so much more.

OJAI VALLEY INN www.ojaivalleyinn.com

Photos - Loews Santa Monica | Pendry West Hollywood | Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club | Terranea Resort | Ojai Valley Inn

1

escape /// feature

San Juan Capistrano

Orange County Laguna Beach

Big Sur

4

Post Ranch Inn One of the reasons California is such a sought-after destination is due to the fact that you can drive a few hours to a totally different atmosphere. Plan a road trip to Big Sur, about a six-hour drive from Orange County, to stay at the ever-so-magical Post Ranch Inn.

Best Time to Visit: • Big Sur is a trip you can take at any time of the year. With cool, foggy mornings and brisk, sunny days, you can spend time relishing in the natural beauty of both the ocean and mountains.

1 2

1 Montage Laguna Beach

Newport Beach

LAGUNA BEACH

• Montage Laguna Beach presents astounding coastal views that might just make you believe you’re in a dream.

The Mosaic Pool looks out to the Pacific, making for the perfect scene to watch the sky go from bright blue to pretty in pink.

Between Spa Montage and the fitness center, take time to yourself to rejuvenate and recharge in the tranquil destination of Laguna Beach. www.montagehotels.com/ lagunabeach

2 The Resort at Pelican Hill NEWPORT BEACH

• Transport yourself to an Italian summer with a stay at The Resort at Pelican Hill. Stay in either a bungalow or villa and let your stress melt away with a customized spa treatment, a dip in the Coliseum Pool, a round of golf and then eventually a meal at Andrea. And each morning, wake up to a breathtaking ocean view. www.pelicanhill.com

176 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

• Situated in historic San Juan Capistrano, Inn at the Mission serves as a charming and cozy escape from everyday life. After indulging in a body scrub treatment at the spa, devour Spanishstyle dishes at Ysidora Restaurant and Lounge. Spend the day lounging by the pool with a cocktail in hand for the ultimate treat to self.

www.innatthemissionsjc.com

• Post Ranch Spa offers an extensive range of treatments and services. Book a Shaman Session for an insightful and enlightening experience to improve your overall wellbeing.

Did You Know?

3 Newport Beach

Don’t Miss:

4 Balboa Bay Resort NEWPORT BEACH

• Room service! Start the day with breakfast in bed while overlooking the bay, prepping for a day of nothing but relaxation. Head to The Spa at Balboa Bay Resort for a CBD Remedy Massage, and afterward, visit the onsite Drybar for a blowout before heading to A+O Restaurant | Bar for a crisp glass of wine. www.balboabayresort.com

• Morning yoga, guided nature walks, forest meditation and sound journey meditation are a few of the amenities offered here. Don’t leave without dipping into the clifftop heated pool for out-ofthis-world views.

POST RANCH INN www.postranchinn.com

Photos - Montage Laguna Beach | The Resort at Pelican Hill: Courtesy of Pelican Hill | Balboa Bay Resort | Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection | Post Ranch Inn: Kodiak Greenwood

Big Sur

3

escape /// feature

La Jolla

San Diego

Los Cabos, MX

La Jolla

3 4

Esperanza, Auberge Resorts

The only private beach resort in Los Cabos, Esperanza features everything you’re searching for in your next vacay. Just a short two-hour flight from San Diego, this serene resort is the ideal spot to soak up the sun.

Best Time to Visit: • Tropical vibes and good weather exist all year long in Los Cabos. Change it up and spend the holidays under the sun or take your summer trip here—it won’t disappoint.

1 2

1 Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa

Don’t Miss: • The private spa lounge area will wash your worries away, or you can get your adrenaline pumping by catching a few waves, cruising on a sailboat or driving ATVs through the sand. Regardless of your activity preferences, you’ll have a grand time!

LA JOLLA

• Laidback but luxurious, Estancia La Jolla is the place to unwind and destress. A few of the unique highlights of The Spa at Estancia are a saltwater pool, an intimate couples bungalow with a private outdoor soaking tub and a eucalyptus steam room. Sip your morning coffee al fresco-style in the secret garden before heading to the pool to chill out in a cabana. www.meritagecollection. com/estancia-la-jolla

3 2 Golden Door SAN MARCOS

• This destination spa has it all—featuring classes for both your mind and body, private hiking trails, massages, farm-to-table meals and personal training, you’re guaranteed to leave feeling empowered and centered. Break out of your comfort zone and tap into your inner self during your sevenday stay. goldendoor.com

178 LOCALE MAGAZINE

San Marcos

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

4

LA JOLLA

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa

• Timeless charm, a welcoming feel and the everlasting beauty of the California coast await you at The Lodge at Torrey Pines.

Between the spa, golf course and elegant restaurant, A.R. Valentien, couples will love this destination where you can chill out together. Book a Palisade room for views of the worldfamous golf course and California coast.

• Immerse yourself in the lush gardens of Rancho Santa Fe for an unforgettable stay.

This hacienda-style oasis offers guests the opportunity to experience luxury at its finest. Book an outdoor massage, adventure off on a bike ride, play a game of tennis or pickleball and lounge by the pool—oh, don’t forget to set your email status to OOO.

www.lodgetorreypines.com

RANCHO SANTA FE

www.ranchovalencia.com

Did You Know?

• Auberge Resorts is an extraordinary collection of hotels situated on three different continents. One-of-a-kind experiences is what they’re known for, and the memories you make at Auberge Resorts will last a lifetime.

ESPERANZA, AUBERGE RESORTS www.aubergeresorts.com/esperanza

Photos - Esperanza Resort Auberge Resort Collection | Golden Door: Rhiannon Taylor | Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa | The Lodge at Torrey Pines | Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa: Austin John

Rancho Santa Fe

Los Cabos, Mexico

escape /// feature

Greater Palm Springs

Lake Tahoe

Palm Springs

La Quinta

Lake Tahoe

3

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

4 Rancho Mirage

Best Time to Visit: 1

• While winter is filled with snow activities and après-ski, a stay during summer is not to be overlooked. Fly fishing, paddleboarding, golfing, hiking and boat rides are a sneak peek at all the fun that is to be had.

2

1 La Quinta Resort & Club LA QUINTA

• PGA West golf courses, world-class tennis courts, 41 sparkling pools, three delicious restaurants and so much more— this is truly a desert oasis that has it all.

Take a yoga class before heading to your Thai massage, then slip away to the pool for starry-eyed views of the mountains and palm trees. www.laquintaresort.com

Don’t Miss: 4 3 Palm Springs

2 Sparrow’s Lodge PALM SPRINGS

• Where the sage burns all day and there are no televisions to distract you, Sparrow’s Lodge is a retreat like none other.

Restored from the 1950s with only 20 rooms, you can feel the magic in the air here.

Bring your favorite book, pack a journal and take the weekend to clear your mind. www.sparrowslodge.com

180 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Korakia Pensione PALM SPRINGS

• You’ll feel as if you’ve escaped to a faraway country at this Mediterranean-style hideout. The peaceful atmosphere and tranquil vibes make for the ultimate getaway.

Cool off in one of the saltwater pools, book an in-room massage and start your Sunday morning with Sun Salutations. Don’t miss out on the classic, vintage movies that play every night. www.korakia.com

Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa RANCHO MIRAGE

• You can’t spell wellness without a 20,000-square-foot European spa...and that’s exactly what you get at Omni Rancho Las Palmas. Between the sauna, steam room and extensive spa menu, you’ll want to carve out time and spend a least a few hours here. After you’re fully pampered, float around the lazy river or play a relaxing round of golf. www.omnihotels.com/ hotels/palm-springs-rancholas-palmas

• The Lake Club is exclusively for hotel guests! Enjoy the whirlpool spa, direct access to Lake Tahoe and gourmet food at this picturesque hideaway.

Did You Know?

• Bring the whole family and stay in a residential suite. With a comfortable stay featuring fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling windows and up to four bedrooms, the kiddos are sure to talk about this trip for years to come!

THE RITZ-CARLTON, LAKE TAHOE www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/california/lake-tahoe

Photos - Korakia Pensione | The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe | La Quinta Resort & Club: Paula Luna | Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa | Sparrow’s Lodge

Escape the desert landscape for the lush mountains and crystalblue lake. Make a road trip out of it or hop on the next flight to Lake Tahoe. This breathtaking resort lets you experience the beauty of nature while offering a luxurious spot to come back and relax at.

escape /// feature

Arizona

Scottsdale

Canyon Point, UT

Canyon Point, UT

Sedona

3

Amangiri

Tucson

One of the most exclusive and remote resorts, Amangiri is an extraordinary experience. While the architecture is jaw-dropping alone, the majority of the suites feature outdoor lounges with views of untouched desert landscape and a private pool or roof terrace. The service is impeccable and unmatched here—every guest is treated like royalty.

Best Time to Visit: • While the summer months are hot and the winter months can bring about chilly temps, fall and spring offer a more moderate climate. Be sure to plan ahead and determine which activities you want to partake in before booking a specific month.

1 2

1 Enchantment Resort

Don’t Miss: • Guided tours are available as well as horseback riding, hot air balloon rides, spa treatments and more. But, the zen vibes and quiet setting might just be enough for you to not want to move a muscle...

SEDONA

• Situated against the gorgeous red rocks of Sedona’s Boynton Canyon, Enchantment Resort is an otherworldly escape that offers both a spiritual and mindful exploration.

Among meditation, yoga, hiking and spa opportunities, you can intentionally connect with both yourself and nature while experiencing a forceful energy felt throughout the property. www.enchantmentresort.com

2 CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa CAREFREE

• CIVANA, located in the Sonoran Desert, is ready to welcome you with personalized wellness activities.

With fitness, personalgrowth and spiritual classes to choose from, unlock a piece of your soul as you dive into self-discovery.

CIVANA utilizes four pillars to enrich your stay: movement, spa, nourishment and discovery. www.civanacarefree.com

182 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Did You Know?

Carefree

3

4

Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia

Omni Tucson National Resort

• Wake up to picturesque views of Camelback Mountain, then head down to the inviting pool to soak in the Scottsdale sunshine. Experience a day at Joya Spa for head-to-toe pampering and dine in decadence at the on-site fine-dining destination, Prado.

• A desert gem, this Tucson resort provides guests the opportunity to adventure off in the desert or just chill out—without ever leaving the property.

Golf, mountain biking, a full-service spa, tennis courts and of course, a pool make for a refreshing weekend getaway.

SCOTTSDALE

www.omnihotels.com/hotels/ scottsdale-montelucia

TUCSON

www.omnihotels.com/ hotels/tucson-national

• Celebrities, such as the Kardashians and Biebers, have been known to stay at this exclusive five-star resort. Upon reaching your destination, you will enter through a gate that leads you down a private road to the resort.

AMANGIRI www.aman.com/resorts/amangiri

Photos - Enchantment Resort | Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia | Omni Tucson National Resort | CIVANA Wellness: Lisa Diederich Photography for CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa | Amangiri

4

Bach Party Essentials:

escape /// feature

Final Fling Fling Final Before the the Before Ring Ring Pop the Bubbly and Prepare for a Weekend of Pool Time and Pour Decisions

» Polaroid Camera » Pool Floaties » Pedialyte

Snap a group pic for the ‘Gram at the trendy Ace Hotel & Swim Club. www.acehotel.com/palmsprings

Book your stay at La Quinta Resort & Club. www.laquintaresort.com

WRITTEN BY: KAYLIN WAIZINGER ILLUSTRATIONS BY: VICENTE MARTÍ SOLAR It’s officially wedding szn, which means grooms- and brides-to-be are looking to live out the rest of their single days with one last hoorah. And we’re here to tell you that not all bachelor/ bachelorette weekends have to involve vodka shots and grimy Vegas strip clubs.

In fact, the best kind of bach party typically entails a little debauchery and a lot of quality time with your bros or... girls. With that in mind, we’ve set the scene for the perfect champagne-poppin’ weekend in the desert. From the hippest hotels to cocktails by the pool, here’s how to live it up before you tie the knot!

Pamper your gals with a pedicure from Spa La Quinta.

Sip on a refreshing Lillet spritz.

www.laquintaresort. com/health-andfitness/spa-la-quinta

www.lillet.com

Triple-dog dare for the bride-to-be: » Everytime you order a drink, wink at the bartender.

Cure your hangover with a hearty brunch at TWENTY6. www.laquintaresort.com/dining/ twenty6

Get in a morning sweat sesh at Ara Pilates + Movement.

Shop ‘til you drop at The Shops at Thirteen Forty Five. www.theshopsat1345.com

www.arapilates.com

BACHELORETTE Party Playlist: 184 LOCALE MAGAZINE

1. “Juice” by Lizzo 2. “Hollaback Girl” by Gwen Stefani 3. “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” by Beyoncé 4. “London Bridge”

by Fergie 5. “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper 6. “Oops!...I Did It Again” by Brittany Spears

Book your stay at ARRIVE Palm Springs. www.arrivehotels. com/palm-springs

Tee off at Classic Club— an Arnold Palmer-designed championship golf course. www.classicclubgolf.com

Venture off the beaten path with ATVs from Off Road Rentals.

Play your cards right with a trip to Spotlight 29 Casino for beer and Blackjack.

www.offroadrentals.com

www.spotlight29.com

Triple dog dare for the groom-to-be:

Cure your hangover with an iced cappuccino from Cartel Coffee Lab.

Bach Party Essentials: » Ice Chest

» Bottle Opener » Cards Against

» Ask three

strangers if you’re making a huge mistake.

cartelcoffeelab.com

Humanity

Bring your best “buds” to Lighthouse Dispensary. www.lighthousedispensary.com

BACHELOR Party Playlist:

Sip on an ice-cold Corona Premier. www.coronausa.com

1. “Gold Digger” by Kanye West 2. “Start Me Up” by The Rolling Stones 3. “Sicko Mode” by Travis Scott 4. “Paradise City” by Guns N’ Roses 5. “We Dem Boyz” by Wiz Khalifa 6. “Doses & Mimosas” by Cherub LOCALE MAGAZINE 185

alive /// around the clock

Maui, HI

EAT SOME KIND GRIND

TAKE A BEACH DAY MAKENA COVE (OR SECRET BEACH) • This not-so-secret beach is our favorite in Maui. Just next door to the more popular Makena Beach is this beautiful white-sand beach framed with black lava rock and swaying palm trees. We took a cooler of beverages and poke, brought some good books and truly enjoyed our beach day.

GRANDMA’S COFFEE HOUSE • This mountain cafe has been making coffee since 1918, and they serve their grandma's recipes in generous portions! Try a homemade pie, a traditional breakfast with Portuguese sausage, a Moco Loco, or if you’re there on a weekend, the eggs Benedict with Kalua pork. grandmascoffeehouse.wixsite.com/website

DINE AT GAZEBO RESTAURANT NAPILI SHORES MAUI • Situated near the pool of the Napili Shores hotel, you will feel like you might be the only one that knows about this place as you find streetside parking and weave through the property. You’ll quickly realize that it isn’t such a big secret when you arrive at 7 a.m. and find yourself 10th in line. Don’t leave though! It moves fast, and it’s worth the wait.

www.outrigger.com/hotels-resorts/hawaii/maui/ napili-shores-maui-by-outrigger

You Had Me at

Aloha

WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ERIK HALE

GRAND WAILEA MAUI, A WALDORF ASTORIA RESORT • The Grand Wailea Maui is an iconic fixture on the coast of Maui. If you are traveling with family, this is an ideal launching point for all of the stops mentioned in this story. The pool includes water slides, a rope swing, volleyball court, grotto and a kids pool with beach sand entry. www.grandwailea.com

BEST POKE EVER? SOUTH MAUI FISH COMPANY • There are plenty of great options for poke on Maui, but our favorite by far is at a food wagon hidden inside a small shopping center in Kihei. They source their fish from local fishermen’s catches each morning. They put their own take on traditional items, such as adding pineapple to their coleslaw. www.southmauifishco.com

186

LOCALE MAGAZINE

EXPLORE ANOTHER PL ANET HALEAKALĀ NATIONAL PARK • This two- to three-hour drive is a great way to spend a day in Maui. The Martian-like landscape is different from what you will see anywhere else on Maui. The sunrise visits have become so popular that you now need to make a reservation a week in advance, and they can be hard to come by.

TAKE A DIP

Learn a Skill • Punakea Palms Coconut Farm in Lahaina is a great way to spend an afternoon with your family. The 2.5-hour tour is informative and interactive. You learn about the lifecycle of the tree as well as the vast number of uses for the tree and coconut, all while touring the farm and taking in the beautiful ocean and island views. We finished by making coconut milk, and have even attempted making it at home! punakeapalms.com

TWIN FALLS MAUI WATERFALL • If driving the entire “Road to Hana” seems a little daunting, then we highly suggest visiting Twin Falls, which is the first and closest falls on this trip. You will definitely need water shoes or flip-flops, as some of the hike is through a stream. www.twinfallsmaui.net

Photos - Haleakala National Park: Jeff King, @jeffkingla | Grandma’s Coffee House: @grandmascoffeehouse

A MAUI TO-DO GUIDE FOR BOTH FIRST-TIME AND EXPERIENCED VISITORS

STAY AND PL AY

Experience Local Culture • What’s a trip to Hawaii without attending a luau?

The beachside location at sunset put us in an aloha state of mind even before we were escorted to our private table for the Grand Wailea Luau. The food was served family-style, and the portions were overly generous.

Our favorites were the ahi poke, mahi-mahi and the sweet rolls with lilikoi butter. grandwailea.com

escape /// how to make

HOW TO MAKE

Totally Tropical A Globally Inspired Aesthetic Anchors the Exquisite Interiors of Design 4 Corners WRITTEN BY: KERI BRIDGWATER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: BALI INTERIORS - SHEILA MAN, TARYN KENT AND CHRIS LITTLECHILD

San Diego

From multimillion-dollar boutique homes to chic commercial spaces, sister design duo Elaina Myers and Susanna Ward have worked their magic on a diverse portfolio of award-winning properties since founding their company in 2008.

188 LOCALE MAGAZINE

“As designers, we pride ourselves in having a broad sense of style, but all our designs have a well-traveled look to them.”

—Elaina Myers “We are both passionate and have gotten really good at fighting for something we feel is the right direction—as well as listening and seeing the other side.”

—Susanna Ward

DESIGN 4 CORNERS 5315 Avenida Encinas, Ste 230 Carlsbad, CA 92008 760.696.0502 www.design4corners.com @sistersof4corners LOCALE MAGAZINE 189

Words From the Wise • Myers and Ward take pride in staying true to themselves, which is, in turn, what drives their designs.

Their father used to tell them, “Conformity is the hobgoblin of little minds.”

escape /// how to make

Runs the Gamut • While the duo is known for their Bali-inspired, indoor-outdoor style, their portfolio extends beyond with projects like So Barn Fabulous, a rustic home nestled in the hills of San Diego, or the Surf Shack, an ode to SoCal surf culture.

Names: Elaina Myers and Susanna Ward Job Titles: Designers and Owners of Design 4 Corners

With a client list that spans both coasts and beyond (the sisters have designed houses in Miami, San Francisco and Hawaii, in addition to here in Southern California), their eye for finding and incorporating layered global elements into modern spaces is eclectic and in high demand. “As designers, we pride ourselves in having a broad sense of style, but all our designs have a well-traveled look to them,” explains Myers. And her decade spent living, working and starting a family in Bali helped cement the Design 4 Corners’ worldly-meets-modern aesthetic—something the brand is very well-known for.

W

“In Bali, we were designing for indoor-outdoor living, which fits perfectly here in California too. Every shop is filled with antiques or incredible pieces by artisans from all over Indonesia that helped us develop a knack for blending the old with the new,” she says. While Myers ran the Bali office, working on major projects across the island, including boutique hideaway The Mandala Home and private residence Villa Coco, Ward ran the California office, often flying out to source furniture and decor. One of their earliest projects saw them ship 11 containers of treasures back to California for a client in La Jolla.

Typically only taking on ground-up construction projects, the sisters occasionally also design on a room-to-room basis if the client and their vision feel like the right fit. A master bedroom, bathroom and walk-in closet (The Suite Life) for someone who turned out to be a “dream client” is one such case in point.

“Interior design can be complicated, so you have to jive with the client, but the most important part about designing a space? Who is going to be inhabiting it,” explains Myers. “Once you have gotten to know the client, the rest becomes intuition, and the intended design comes alive.” In addition to helping people create gorgeous homes with their tasteful use of color and texture, the sisters have lent their talents to commercial spaces too. Most recently, Another Salon in Solana Beach, Swirl Boutique in Carlsbad and the oh-so-Instagram-friendly restaurant The Waverly in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. A boutique hotel in Bali was in the works until the pandemic hit last year, causing developers to pause the project.

When it comes to working styles, both being fire sign Aries means things can get intense—but in a good way. “We are both passionate and have gotten really good at fighting for something we feel is the right direction—as well as listening and seeing the other side,” shares Ward, who adds that they both agree the install phase is the most rewarding part of the design process.

“This is where we add all the finishing touches that really make a space come alive. It’s the jewelry of the home,” she says.

190 LOCALE MAGAZINE

HOW TO TRANSFORM YOUR SPACE INTO AN INDUSTRIAL -C HIC ISL AND OASIS The Sister Duo’s Step-by-Step Guide to Mixing Worldly Style With Modern Design

While the siblings are no one-trick ponies when it comes to design style, they undoubtedly made their mark and won fans around the world for their welltraveled luxe yet laid-back aesthetic. And make no mistake about it: this look is equally as stunning in a bohemian holiday home on Bali as it is in pied-àterre by the beach in Southern California. Here are their key style steps and must-include elements to nail industrial-meets-island chic.

W

Step 1:

• “Let the environment inspire you. When it comes to unifying industrial design, we prefer to let natural colors and materials speak for themselves. This could mean working with or incorporating elements made from concrete and natural woods or accessories like a jute rug.”

Step 2:

• “Foliage plays a huge role in all of our designs, especially in The Mandala House and Villa Coco projects. Plants in any space must be intentional though, and that doesn’t have to mean adding live ones—it could be as simple as going with a palm tree wallpaper in a bathroom or bedroom.”

Step 3:

Step 4:

“Once you have gotten to know the client, the rest becomes intuition, and the intended design comes alive.”

—Elaina Myers

• “The details are important.

Source colorful textiles with unique patterns and textures to use as throw blankets or accent pillows. Adding soft finishes and organic accents to an industrial space creates warmth and transforms things in a small but impactful way.”

Step 5:

• “We love mixing old and new.

Antique furniture, especially in Bali, carries so much history and always tells a story. From floor rugs and chairs to light fixtures and accent decor, integrating older finds you’ve made locally or brought back from a trip with newer pieces creates character and depth.”

• “Use natural and locally sourced materials as hard accents whenever possible. In Bali, we were able to source teak flooring and a bathtub carved from lava stone. Copper is another great material to use in any industrial design (think everything from pendant lights to fixtures and fittings), as it will patina nicely over time and looks beautiful.”

“The details are important. Source colorful textiles with unique patterns and textures to use as throw blankets or accent pillows…”

—Elaina Myers and Susanna Ward

LOCALE MAGAZINE 191

thank you to our partners Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage Andaz San Diego Beacon Pointe Wealth Advisors - Palm Desert Board & Brew Brian Liberto Brow House Cafe Sevilla Spanish Restaurant and Tapas Bar Catalina Express Chrome Hearts Classic Club Coachella Crossroads Cody’s La Jolla Constellation Brands Descanso Restaurant Grover Aesthetics Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa Fletcher Jones Motorcars Forever Ageless Fresh Juice Bar German Tuning Corporation Brabus Heirloom Craft Kitchen / Cork & Fork Wine Bar / Tu Madres Indigo Auto JONES AGENCY, PALM SPRINGS Kaminskiy Design and Remodeling Ken Grody Ford KUD Properties, Inc. LIBRA Live Well Clinic

192 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Grind & Prosper Hospitality Group | Louisiana Purchase SD, Miss B’s Coconut Club, Park 101 Carlsbad, PB Shore Club, CocoMaya Lounge Group Consulting Ocean Park Inn Old Town La Quinta Omni Hotels & Resorts Paséa Hotel & Spa Physicians Center for Renewal Ranch 45 Rancho Relaxo Rene Dell’Acqua D.D.S Revivals Stores Rock & Brews SilverRock Resort Spotlight 29 Casino Tabu Shabu Tavern House City of La Quinta Gatsby Lounge @ Resorts World Casino The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens Trevor’s at The Tracks URBANA Mexican Gastronomy The District at Tustin Legacy Warren Christopher Flooring Wdowin NMD William Grant & Sons Winston’s Crown Jewelers Zense on El Paseo