Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 1
OFFICIAL OJAI VALLEY ANNUAL READERS’ POLL
You voted! Join us in honoring the winners
2023
2 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 3
www.AttitudeAdjustmentShop.com
8 0 5- 6 46 - 110 9 S p irits • W ine • Cigars • P ack ing & S up p lies • S hip p ing M ailbox R entals • M oney Orders • Cop ies • F ax S ervice Of f ice S up p lies • S hredding • Ojai T - S hirts & Collectibles
Best Convenience S tore
Best Business S ervices
T H A N K Y OU OJ A I VA L L E Y
Best L iq uor S tore
1129 Maricopa Hwy at the “Y” in Ojai
Best Customer S ervice
4 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
2023
Welcome to a new concept in assisted living and memory care Come see for yourself - Call today to schedule a tour 805-798-9305 | theartesianseniorliving.com | 203 E El Roblar Dr, Ojai, CA 93023 RCFE# 567609954
Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 5
6 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 PUBLISHER’S NOTE, BEST OF OJAI 2023
“It’s a Megabowl!” When I’m starting a new service, product or process in my business the final component I need to launch it is my own belief. Many Ojai businesses are homegrown “momand-pop” creations. We rely on our dreams, wits, knowledge and skill to thrive in the Ojai community. The final key ingredient to success is often the selfconfidence to finally transfer our own enthusiasm outward. Sometimes when I’m needing a boost of resolve to take that leap of faith in my own idea, I say out loud the words of inspiration spoken by Will Ferrell in the 2008 basketball comedy “Semi-Pro,” as his losing team owner character faces a chilly audience of skeptical journalists: “The Flint Michigan Megabowl — it’s a Megabowl, what’s not to understand? This is history in the making. … Discovery of fire, invention of the submarine, and the Flint Michigan Megabowl! … We’re gonna win the Megabowl. Flint Michigan Megabowl! Flint Michigan MEGABOWL!”
Find the Best of Ojai by category Community................................. 8 Shopping ..................................... 12 Health, Body............................... 14 Home & Garden ......................... 20 Services ....................................... 27+36 Arts & Entertainment................ 42 Food & Drink .............................. 43+49
By sheer dint of will, Will Ferrell brings the community event into being. The drive and determination of Ojai Valley’s doers and makers, and their ability to believe and adapt creatively are qualities I greatly admire. Congratulations to Ojai Valley's best of 2023 whose ideas, passion and hard work is highlighted on these pages. Thank you for making our community a special place. Dear readers, please join us in recognizing, patronizing and thanking our local community businesses. You will see many of our very best on these pages. Thank you for your support.. With affection,
La a Rearwin Ward, publish
Laura Rearwin Ward, publisher
Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 7
8 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
COMMUNITYBEST OF OJAI 2023 BEST NONPROFIT/CITIZENS ORGANIZATION GOLD
HELP of Ojai SILVER
Humane Society of Ventura County BRONZE
BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL GOLD
Oak Grove School SILVER
Ojai Valley School BRONZE
Monica Ros School
Ojai Valley Land Conservancy
BEST SERVICE ORGANIZATION GOLD
Rotary Club of Ojai SILVER
Ojai Women’s Fund BRONZE
Ojai Valley Lion’s Club
BEST VOLUNTEER GOLD
Kara Hooper SILVER
Ally Mills BRONZE
Martha Ditchfield
BEST PLACE OF WORSHIP GOLD
Nature SILVER
Ojai Presbyterian Church BRONZE
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church
BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL GOLD
Nordhoff Junior/Senior High SILVER
Topa Topa Elementary BRONZE
Mira Monte Elementary
BEST EDUCATOR GOLD
Jim Bailey SILVER
Bill Wagner BRONZE
Kim Hoy
BEST SUMMER CAMP GOLD
City of Ojai Parks & Recreation SILVER
Ojai Valley School summer programs/ camps BRONZE
Oak Grove School summer camps
BEST OJAI CITY COUNCIL MEMBER GOLD
Suza Francina SILVER
Betsy Stix BRONZE
Rachel Lang
BEST PARK GOLD
Libbey Park SILVER
Soule Park BRONZE
Sarzotti Park
BEST CAMPGROUND GOLD
Lake Casitas SILVER
Rose Valley
BRONZE
Camp Comfort
BEST HIKING TRAIL GOLD
Shelf Road SILVER
Ventura River Preserve BRONZE
Matilija Canyon
Best of COMMUNITY 9
It is a wonderful honor to know I am appreciated by our community members. Thank you all! Politics is really the art of governance, a science that synthesizes opposing views into a higher level of understanding. -- Corinne McLaughlin
2023
SUZA FRANCINA Ojai City Council, Mayor Pro Tem
O-Higher Ed was founded in 2019. Its mission is to help students of the Ojai Valley access higher education, with a focus on those who are first in their family to go to college. Students who are first in their family to go to college may start in the program as early as seventh grade and stay in the program through twelfth grade. ohighered.org
On behalf of the students of O-Higher Ed, we congratulate Ms. Hooper for this well-deserved honor.
KARA HOOPER Best VOLUNTEER
2023
10 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 Thank you, Ojai, for voting us
“Best Day Care” 10 Years in a Row
2023
Join Our Team
Best of COMMUNITY 11
12 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
SHOPPINGBEST OF OJAI 2023 BEST VINTAGE OR RESALE STORE GOLD
2nd HELPings Thrift Store SILVER
Treasures of Ojai BRONZE
The Lennon Closet
BEST ARTS & CRAFTS STORE GOLD
Ben Franklin SILVER
Ojai Creates! BRONZE
Poppies Art and Gifts
BEST BICYCLE SHOP GOLD
Bicycles of Ojai SILVER
The MOB Shop
BEST BOOKSTORE GOLD
Bart’s Books SILVER
Twice Sold Tales Bookstore BRONZE
Krishnamurti Foundation Bookstore
BEST CAMPING SUPPLIES GOLD
Meiners Oaks Ace Hardware SILVER
True Value Hardware BRONZE
Lake Casitas Park Store
BEST CANNABIS DISPENSARY GOLD
Sespe Creek Collective SILVER
Ojai Greens BRONZE
Ojai Cannabis Co. (formerly Shangri-La Care Center)
BEST CBD RETAILER GOLD
Sespe Creek Collective
BEST FURNITURE STORE SILVER
Ojai Cannabis Company (formerly Shangri-la Care Center) BRONZE
Ojai + Fox
BEST CLOTHING STORE GOLD
Rains Department Store SILVER
Camouflage BRONZE
Julia Rose & Co.
BEST CONVENIENCE STORE GOLD
Attitude Adjustment Shoppe SILVER
Joe’s Quick Stop BRONZE
Ojai Valley Ranch Market
BEST FLORIST GOLD
Ojai Blooms SILVER
Angela’s Flowers BRONZE
Blooming Ruby’s
GOLD
Down Home Furnishings SILVER
Treasures of Ojai BRONZE
Wachter Hay & Grain
BEST GIFT SHOP GOLD
Bungalow by FIG SILVER
Rains Department Store BRONZE
Serendipity Toys
BEST HARDWARE STORE GOLD
Meiners Oaks Ace Hardware SILVER
True Value Hardware BRONZE
Ojai Lumber Co.
BEST HOME DECOR STORE GOLD
FiG Curated Living SILVER
Rains Department Store
BRONZE
Down Home Furnishings
BEST JEWELRY RETAILER GOLD
Jes MaHarry SILVER
Susan Cummings BRONZE
Poppies Art and Gifts
BEST PET FOOD/SUPPLY STORE GOLD
Wachter Hay & Grain SILVER
Pets & More BRONZE
Ojai Valley Feed
CRYSTAL HEALING SHOP GOLD
CRYSTAL SHOP SILVER
Nutmeg’s Ojai House BRONZE
Dharma & Dog
Best of SHOPPING 13
14 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
Thank you for voting us best Dispensary & CBD Retailer Cheers to the 6th year in a row! Lounge coming soon...
Our Grass is Greener
Bringing sungrown cannabis to the people Visit us in-store or order online 408 Bryant Cir. Unit C, Ojai CA Sespe.org | (805) 738-7490
C10-0000028-LIC
Best of SHOPPING 15
16 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
HEALTH&BODY BEST OF OJAI 2023 BEST ACUPUNCTURIST GOLD
Laurie Edgcomb SILVER
Craig Rigsby BRONZE
Nathan Kaehler BRONZE
Alan Chang
BEST LOCAL SPORTS COACH GOLD
Trevor Weedon
BEST MASSAGE GOLD
Ojai Valley Inn and Spa SILVER
Bamboo Creek Spa BRONZE
AA Relaxing Station
BEST FACIAL GOLD
Ojai Valley Inn and Spa SILVER
Body Essentials of Ojai
SILVER
BRONZE
Wenke Seider
Ojai + Fox Spa
BRONZE
Cody Roddick
BEST HAIRSTYLIST
BRONZE
Kelli Loughman
BRONZE
GOLD
Dillon Lowen
Jen Keeler
BEST DAY SPA
SILVER
GOLD
BEST LOCAL SPORTS TEAM GOLD
Nordhoff Rangers Football SILVER
AYSO BRONZE
Ojai Valley Little League
BEST YOGA INSTRUCTOR
Denise Heller BRONZE
SILVER
Nicole York
Ojai + Fox Spa
BEST BARBER GOLD
Brenton Butler SILVER
Tanner Robertson
GOLD
BRONZE
Francesca Gold
Buddy Wilds
SILVER
Ingrid Boulting
BEST BEAUTY SALON
BRONZE
GOLD
Suza Francina
Bohème Ojai
BEST MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO GOLD
Ojai Valley Taekwondo Academy SILVER
Ojai Valley Martial Arts BRONZE
Victory Pacific Aikido
BEST FITNESS FACILITY GOLD
Ojai Valley Athletic Club SILVER
Bryant Street Gym BRONZE
Balance Health Center
The Day Spa of Ojai
SILVER
Rise Ojai BRONZE
Amber Nicole Salon
BEST MANICURE/PEDICURE GOLD
Kristy’s Nails SILVER
Ojai Valley Inn and Spa BRONZE
Glo West
BEST ESTHETICIAN GOLD
Summer McComas SILVER
Daron Hope
BRONZE
Bamboo Creek Spa
BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST GOLD
Swanner Physical Therapy SILVER
Balance Health Center BRONZE
Anna Kotula
BEST OPTOMETRIST GOLD
Bruce Brockman SILVER
Robert J. Graham BRONZE
Bridget Tsao
BEST PHYSICIAN GOLD
Dr. Jim Halverson SILVER
Dr. Maria Halvorson BRONZE
Dr. Helen Petroff
BEST HOLISTIC PRACTITIONER GOLD
Richard Hiltner MD SILVER
Julie Tumamait-Stenslie BRONZE
Laurie Edgcomb, LAC
BEST CHIROPRACTOR GOLD
Boshoff Novak Chiropractic SILVER
Evergreen Chiropractic & Wellness BRONZE
Deborah Murphy
BEST DENTIST GOLD
David L. Garber SILVER
Jan Komura BRONZE
Drew Eggebraten
BEST PHARMACY GOLD
Medical Arts Pharmacy SILVER
The Medicine Shoppe BRONZE
Ojai Village Pharmacy
Best of HEALTH&BODY 17 We take our role in your health very seriously. We are committed to providing you with exceptional service. We are honored to be recognized. We will work hard every day to earn your business!
DRIVE-THRU COMPOUNDING PET COMPOUNDING PRESCRIPTION REFILLS
2023
BEST PHARMACY
1320 MARICOPA HWY., OJAI | 805-646-7211 | M-F 9:30-6 | SAT 10-2 | SUN closed
Thank you for your loyal support!
Topa Topa Optometry Inc.
Voted Best in the Ojai Valley 2023 for the 10th straight year!
2023
• Custom prescription eyewear for computer fatigue, blue light blockers, sports, high fashion designer sunglasses. • LaFont, TomFord, Persol, Oliver Peoples, Silhouette and many more • Non- prescription sunglasses including Rayban, Maui Jim and Oakley are also available. • The latest advancements in dry eye and red eye treatments. • Nutritional counseling to enhance and protect eye health. • In continued compliance with COVID protocols; your health is our top priority.
Front row; Sarah, Liz , Suzi. Second row; Dr. Brockman, Dr. Tsao, Heidi, Kim, Maritsa, and Leah
1211MaricopaHighway,Suite101(betweenMechanics&ChaseBanks 805.646.5109
www.topaeye.com
Looking for new career? Join our enthusiastic, caring team! Please contact eyeliztopa@gmail.com
18 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
Thank you Ojai!
Premier Horseback Riding
ojai valley trail riding company Explore California’s Shangri-La with a majestic horseback tour of one of the most beautiful places on Earth. We have rides suited for a beginner or an advanced rider. Just 3.5 miles from downtown Ojai, we are open 7 days a week. Call for reservations.
2023
805-890-9340
ojaivalleytrailridingcompany.com
“The root of joy is gratefulness”, Many thanks to our Ojai Friends!
2023 Best Day Spa
Spa Memberships Radiant Facials Therapeutic Massage Body Treatments Foot & Hand Services Pre-wedding Day Escapes Far-infared Sauna Spa Day Packages
805.640.1100 • 209 N. Montgomery Street • thedayspa.com
Best of HEALTH&BODY 19
2023 Winner for 11 consecutive years
“Thanks to our clients and dear friends for their support in this challenging year, it’s because of you all, that we are still in business. Again, THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH! -Mike, Cindy, Ken, Linh & Gabbi
voted best salon & stylist in Ojai
805.798.9220 312 N. Signal Street boheme.ojai.com
20 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
HOME&GARDENBEST OF OJAI 2023 BEST ARCHITECT GOLD
Whitman Architectural Design Inc. SILVER
Two Trees Architects BRONZE
Hartmann Architecture Studio
BEST HEATING & A/C COMPANY GOLD
Fairweather Heating & Air Conditioning SILVER
West Coast Air Conditioning BRONZE
Pacific Aire
BEST TREE SERVICE GOLD
Call Oscar Tree Service SILVER
Mark Crane's Tree Inc. BRONZE
Sky High Tree Care
BEST SOLAR PROVIDER GOLD
Sespe Power Solutions SILVER
California Solar Electric BRONZE
Sun Energy Consultants
BEST POOL MAINTENANCE SERVICE GOLD
Ojai Pool Store SILVER
Dolphin Pools BRONZE
Sean’s Pool Care
BEST PAINTING COMPANY GOLD
Ojai Custom Paint (aka Titus Custom Painting) SILVER
McKay’s Painting BRONZE
Phil’s Custom Painting
BEST ROOFER GOLD
Ventura Roofing Co. SILVER
Aztec Roofing Co. BRONZE
BEST WINDOW & GLASS COMPANY
BEST ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
GOLD
GOLD
Arcade Glass
Ojai Electric
SILVER
SILVER
Ojai Door & Window BRONZE
Swift Electric BRONZE
RMC Construction & Roofing
Ojai Valley Glass
Sespe Power Solutions
BEST PLUMBING/ROOTER COMPANY
BEST GENERAL CONTRACTOR
BEST GARDEN CENTER
GOLD
Silver Sewer & Drain Plumbing SILVER
Franks Rooter & Pumping BRONZE
GOLD
Chad Carper Construction SILVER
Small Town Builder BRONZE
GOLD
Flora Gardens SILVER
Meiners Oaks Nursery BRONZE
Max Reed
Tenpenny Construction
Green’s Nursery
BEST PEST CONTROL COMPANY
BEST FENCE INSTALLER
BEST HOME BUILDING SUPPLY
GOLD
Ojai Termite & Pest Control SILVER
Everready Termite and Pest Control
BEST LANDSCAPE COMPANY GOLD
Green Goddess Gardens SILVER
Daley Landscaping, Inc. BRONZE
Haney Landscaping, Inc.
GOLD
Bob's Fence Co. SILVER
Watkins Fence Co. BRONZE
Small Town Builder
GOLD
Ojai Lumber Co. SILVER
Meiners Oaks Ace Hardware BRONZE
Ojai True Value Hardware
Best of HOME&GARDEN 21
2023 The Ojai Playhouse
VENTURA ROOFING COMPANY INC. Voted Ojai’s Best Roofer 13 years in a row! (805)646-ROOF • Request a Bid at venturarfg@gmail.com • License#440157 www.venturaroofingco.com
Check out our
Beatrice Wood Center For the Arts
Channel Ventura Roofing Company
Topa Mountain Winery
22 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
30
Best of HOME&GARDEN 23
24 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
Thank You for voting us Best of Ojai! Your Local HVAC Contractor Proudly Serving The Ojai Valley
2023
FAIRWEATHER HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC.
BEST HEATING & A/C COMPANY
• We Service & Maintain All Makes & Models • High Efficiency Air Conditioning Units • IWave-R Air Purifiers & UV Lights to Enhance Air Quality • Preventative Maintenance Programs & Filter Changes • Carrier, Rheem, & Daikin HVAC Dealer • Smart Thermostats Honesty & Quality are Always The Best Policy
805-658-8385 | 11556 N. Ventura Ave., Ojai CA | www.fairweatherac.com
Family Owned & Operated Senior & Military Discounts 24 Hour Emergency Service HVAC C-20 License #1068598
Best of HOME&GARDEN 25
Call Oscar Tree Service Whatever Your Tree Requires 312 W. El Roblar Dr., Ojai, CA 93023
805-646-7934
Certified Arborist:WE-5064A· • State License: #740789
24 Hour Emergency Service Available • Senior Discounts Available COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL
Voted Best Tree Service in the Valley
Ten Years in a Row!
“I work from home. A lot. It’s mostly great, but juggling home life with work was getting stressful. I could not be happier with my stand-alone office shed. The quality of construction and the end result far exceeded my expectations. I now have separation between work and home, and my own space. It’s honestly a nightand-day difference.” -Dave Morelli, Ojai.
OJAI’S SMALL, LOCAL, FAMILY-OWNED BACKYARD SHED BUSINESS SINCE 2010. “Every square inch of real estate is valuable in California. A Genuine Shed is an amazing way to add value to your property and get bonus square footage without adding on to your home. 110% recommend this fantastic company! Great people to work with, reliable, quality construction.” Carmen Galzerano, Realtor, Glick Real Estate Associates, Santa Barbara
8 0 5 . 3 0 8 . 3 1 9 5 | W W W.G E N U I N E S H E D S .CO M
2023
Dear Customers, it has been a pleasure taking care of your tree service needs, and we are truly grateful to all of you for choosing us as your tree service company. The growth we’ve experienced over the years is because of customers like you, who support our business. We appreciate your trust, and we’ll do our best to continue meeting your tree service expectations. Your continued patronage and feedback are a vital part of our growth. And for that, we are very thankful. Again, thank you so much for choosing Call Oscar Tree Service who will always try to complete the service to your satisfaction. We look forward to serving you for many years to come. Sincerely, •Call Oscar Tree Service •Oscar D. Acosta
Runner-up Best Garden Center in the Ojai Valley
Meiners Oaks Nursery 312 W. El Roblar Dr. • (805) 646-2546
26 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
T H A N K Y OU
OJ A I VA L L E Y !
F OR VOT I N G U S BE S T OF 2 0 2 3
G eneral P est and T ermite Control Organic P est Control A vailable ( G o G reen)
11584 North V entura Ave. Ojai, CA 9 3023
S tate L icense # 0 P R 49 3 S erving Ventura, S anta Barbara and L .A . Counties
Best of SERVICES 27
SERVICESBEST OF OJAI 2023 BEST AUTO REPAIR GOLD
Ojai Valley Auto (Imports) SILVER
Fred's Tire Man BRONZE
Rock Long’s Automotive
BEST OIL CHANGE GOLD
SILVER
BRONZE
BRONZE
Ojai Rancho Inn
Olga Jones - Ameriprise Financial
Topa’s Custom Uphotery
BEST INN / BED & BREAKFAST
BEST BANK TELLER AND INSTITUTION
BEST PET GROOMER
GOLD
Lavender Inn SILVER
Ojai Retreat & Inn BRONZE
GOLD
Mary Floyd, Ojai Community Bank SILVER
Rhonda Dolittle BRONZE
GOLD
Ultimutt Pet Spa in Ojai SILVER
Four Paws Pet Grooming BRONZE
Caravan Outpost
Jennifer Flores, Bank of America
Suzanne’s Mobile Pet Grooming
BEST INSURANCE PROVIDER
BEST ACCOUNTING/ TAX SERVICE
BEST PET SITTER/BOARDING
Fred’s Tireman SILVER
Ojai Valley Auto (Imports) BRONZE
Adamson's Tire & Service
BEST BUSINESS SERVICES GOLD
Ojai Business Center SILVER
Attitude Adjustment Shoppe
BEST COMPUTER REPAIR GOLD
bITvision Technology SILVER
Lahaina Computer Co. BRONZE
MacComputerGuy
BEST GRAPHIC DESIGNER GOLD
Alex Mooney SILVER
Amy Schneider BRONZE
GOLD
Doug Crawford Insurance SILVER
Farmers Insurance Ojai Offices BRONZE
GOLD
Marie Estes-Pratt Bookkeeping SILVER
Jacobs & Jacobs BRONZE
GOLD
Ojai Dog Friendly SILVER
The Peaceful Pup BRONZE
Evan Austin
State Farm - Bob Daddi
Ojai Tax Services (Jeetendra Jain)
Hanna Paulsen
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE
BEST LAW FIRM
BEST ONE-OF-A-KIND BUSINESS
BEST DRY CLEANERS OR LAUNDROMAT
GOLD
Meiners Oaks Ace Hardware SILVER
Bonnie Lu’s BRONZE
GOLD
Waite Jacobs & Atkinson SILVER
Ryan Blatz Law BRONZE
GOLD
Ventura Brush Goats SILVER
Pixies General Store BRONZE
Attitude Adjustment
James Casey Law
Poppies Art and Gifts
BEST HOTEL
BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR
BEST UPHOLSTERER
GOLD
Ojai Valley Inn BRONZE
Blue Iguana Inn
GOLD
Jessie Hawkins - Morgan Stanley SILVER
Integrity Wealth Advisors
GOLD
Ojai Valley Cleaners SILVER
Royal Cleaners BRONZE
Route 33 Laundry
GOLD
Ojai Upholstery SILVER
Plush Surroundings
continued on page 36
28 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
We feel so honored and blessed to be able to serve our precious community. We love you Ojai and can’t thank you enough!
2023 Best Property Management
2023 Best Real Estate Office
We tailor our services to fit your needs. We can transform your property to be SALE OR RENT ready with local artisans and contractors. Sales, rentals and management Ojaipropertygroup@gmail.com 805-202-4149
ojaipg.com
DRE# 02099617
Best of SERVICES 29
30 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
THANK YOU OJAI!
for voting us 2023 Best Glass Company
THERESE HARTMANN CO NC I E RG E MO RTGAGE CO N SU LTAN T FO R 25 Y EAR S
C2 FINANCIAL CORPORATION IS THE #1 BROKER IN THE NATION
C2 FINANCIAL
CORPORATION
805.798.2158
We are proud to be in business for over 40 years! 805-646-1093|arcadeglass@att.net Lic# CSLB# 1003846
HEARTLOANS@SBCGLOBAL.NET 236 W. OJAI AVE., SUITE 105, OJAI CA 93023
HEARTLOANS .COM
2023
MORTGAGE EXECUTIVE MAGAZINE
This licensee is performing acts for which a real estate license is required. C2 Financial Corporation is licensed by the California Bureau of Real Estate, Broker # 01821025; NMLS # 135622. Loan approval is not guaranteed and is subject to lender review of information. All loan approvals are conditional and all conditions must be met by borrower. Loan is only approved when lender has issued approval in writing and is subject to the Lender conditions. Specified rates may not be available for all borrowers. Rate subject to change with market conditions. C2 Financial Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Mortgage Broker/Lender. (Add this for website disclaimer: The services referred to herein are not available to persons located outside the state of California.)
Waite, Jacobs & Atkinson
It has been an honor to serve our community since 1975. Thank you for entrusting us with your estate planning and trust administration matters! 603 West Ojai Avenue, Suite D www.wjalaw.com 805.646.7263 Ross E. Atkinson - Attorney Carolyn J. Vondriska - Attorney Megan Davis - Law Office Administrator Mary Clark - Law Office Administrator Denise Heimo - Law Office Administrator Allan Jacobs - deeply missed colleague and friend (1940-2017)
2023
’11 ’12 ’13 ’14 ’15 ’16 ’17 ’18 ’19 ’20 ’21 ’22
Best of SERVICES 31
L I VS OT H E B YS R E A LT YC A .C O M
Gold Winner for 2023 Best Real Estate Office in Ojai
We are absolutely thrilled and humbled to announce that our office has won the gold for Best Real Estate Office in Ojai through the Ojai Valley News Annual Readers Poll. This recognition would not have been possible without the support and trust of the incredible community of Ojai and everyone who participated in this year’s poll. Your vote is not just a nod to our office, but a testament to the strength and unity of the Ojai community that we are so proud to be a part of. At LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, we are committed to delivering a luxury experience throughout your real estate transactions. Being acknowledged by our local community encourages us to continue striving for excellence in serving you better each day. Thank you, Ojai, for making us your choice. It is an honor to serve you, and we promise to continue to uphold the high standards you’ve come to expect from us. Here’s to many more years of working together to make Ojai an even better place to live! With Gratitude, The Team at LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, Ventura County
OJAI
LIV Sotheby’s International Realty 727 W. Ojai Avenue, Ojai, California 805.646.7288 © 2023 LIV Sotheby’s International Realty. All rights reserved. All data, including all measurements and calculations are obtained from various sources and has not and will not be verified by Broker. All information shall be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. LIV Sotheby’s International Realty is independently owned and operated and supports the principals of the Fair Housing Act.
32 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
TONYA PERALTA
REPORTING FOR THE PEOPLE SINCE 1891 O J A I VA L L E Y N E W S .C O M | @ O J A I VA L L E Y N E W S | @ O V N
LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS: because you live here.
VENTURACOUNTYSUN.COM | @VENTURACOUNTYSUN | @VCSUN_ NEWS
Best of SERVICES 33
A MOM ENT OF GRAT I T UDE .
We are again overjoyed to be named among the “Best of Ojai” 2023 in nine categories, including Gold for Best Hotel. We wouldn’t be here without our wonderful associates, neighbors, guests and readers like you. All who have helped make our serene mountain valley inn the Ojai icon it is today. We welcome you to share magical moments with loved ones, and discover new culinary adventures at our beloved 220-acre retreat. Delight your palate with epicurean artistry at The Farmhouse, rejuvenate at Spa Ojai, and find sanctuary in our private villas and fully refreshed guestrooms. Make a reservation today to escape in a moment with Ojai’s rare spirit, as we share this incredible honor with you.
(844) 993-9402 OjaiValleyInn.com
34 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
Bryant Circle Mini Storage • Free move-in truck • Moving and packing supplies • Security system with TV surveillance • On-site resident managers • Competitive rates • Move-in specials
2023
Call us today for our BLUE DOOR SPECIAL 412 Bryant Circle, Ojai 805.646.2354
Best of SERVICES 35
REPORTING FOR THE PEOPLE SINCE 1891 O J A I VA L L E Y N E W S .C O M | @ O J A I VA L L E Y N E W S | @ O V N
LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS: because you live here.
VENTURACOUNTYSUN.COM | @VENTURACOUNTYSUN | @VCSUN_NEWS
2023
Thanks Ojai for voting us "Best Veterinary Clinic" 108 Bryant Street | 805.646.5539
36 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
SERVICESBEST OF OJAI 2023 continued from page 27
SILVER
BRONZE
Tonya Peralta
Carrie Sanders
BRONZE
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
BEST MORTGAGE PROVIDER
Donna Sallen
GOLD
GOLD
BEST REAL ESTATE OFFICE
Whitney Hartmann
Heritage Financial SILVER
GOLD
SILVER
C2 Financial (Therese Hartmann)
LIV Sotheby's Ojai
Stephen Adams
BRONZE
SILVER
BRONZE
Teena Broumand
Keller Williams
Brandi Crockett
BEST DAY CARE PROVIDER GOLD
BRONZE
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
GOLD
BRONZE
Noah’s Ark Preschool
The Gables of Ojai
Ojai Property Group
SILVER
Montessori School of Ojai
BEST PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
A Place To Grow Preschool
BEST STORAGE FACILITY
Joe Kapp Real Estate
GOLD
GOLD
SILVER
Heather Erickson
Oak View Self Storage BRONZE
Condor Self Storage of Ojai
BEST TRANSPORTATION SERVICE GOLD
Ojai Trolley SILVER
Dutch’s Downtown Shuttle - Kool Buzz BRONZE
Help of Ojai
BEST VETERINARY CLINIC GOLD
Matilija Veterinary Hospital SILVER
Ojai Village Veterinary BRONZE
Topa Mountain Animal Hospital
Bryant Circle Mini Storage
Holly Humphrey Property Management
DS
The Artesian of Ojai The Manor of Ojai Residential Care
Ojai Property Group SILVER
BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT
SILVER BRONZE
GOLD
BRONZE
BEST RETIREMENT LIVING
SILVER
Thank you for voting me among the best realtors in the Ojai Valley!
DONNA SALLEN
2187 McNELL ROAD
12339 LINDA FLORA DRIVE
3BD, 2BA + POOLHOUSE | ICONIC SPANISH ESTATE | PART OF THE WHALE ROCK RANCH
4BD, 3.5BA | GATED RANCHO MATILIJA ESTATE W/ GUESTHOUSE & ART STUDIO
Donna Sallen, Realtor® RE / MAX Gold Coast Realtors DRE 01488460
“Stay Strong. Stay Healthy. Stay Connected”.
2023 805-798-0516 | donna4remax@aol.com | www.donnasallen.com
Best of SERVICES 37
We’ll get you there! From and to: For Just $1.50!
Ojai, Meiners Oaks and Mira Monte ADA, Medicare Card Holders, and Seniors 65-74 are 1/2 price. Seniors 75 and over, children under 45” tall and all students are FREE riders on the Trolley
The Ojai Trolley Service Continues to Run Serving the Needs of the Ojai Valley
The Ojai Trolley Service, established in 1989, is owned and operated by the City of Ojai. The Trolley provides daily fixed-route transportation to approximately 9,000 riders per month throughout Ojai, Meiners Oaks and Mira Monte. The Trolley is a well-known feature in the Ojai Valley, and in addition to the daily fixed-route services, participates in many local community events, fund raising activities, community service, and educational functions.
2023
408 South Signal Street, Ojai, CA 93024 Phone (805) 272 3883 • E-mail: transit@ojai.ca.gov • www.ojaitrolley.com
38 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
Best of SERVICES 39
Follow us @venturabrushgoats
-vegetation management -wildfire mitigation -ecological improvement
Thank you for voting us Best One-of-a-kind business VENTURA
2023
BRUSHGOATS 805-358-1841 | www.venturabrushgoats.com
40 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
MO ON EY C R E AT I V E
2023
graphic design. web design. branding. social media. creative. mooneycreative.net Thank you, Ojai, for voting us
BEST
GRAPHIC
DESIGNER
for 7 YEARS!
A women-owned collaborative of independent creatives.
Thank You Ojai! for your continued support
Marie Estes Pratt Bookkeeping & Tax
2023
201 Church Rd, Ojai, CA 93023 Phone: 805-646-5645 Fax: 805-646-5615 lisa@ojaibkpr.com
Best of SERVICES 41
Celebrating 45 years serving the Ojai community.
Voted Best 14 years in a row
42 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
ARTS&ENTERTAINMENTBEST OF OJAI 2023
BEST LOCAL COMMUNITY ACTOR (MALE/FEMALE) GOLD
Denise Heller SILVER
Jessi May Stevenson BRONZE
Anna Kotula
BEST VISUAL ARTIST GOLD
Carmen Abelleira SILVER
Colleen McDougal BRONZE
Gayel Childress
BEST ART GALLERY GOLD
Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts SILVER
TH OV fo AN K r A AR VO YO BE TS TIN U ST G G of AL 20 O L 23 JA ERY I
OVA Arts
Patty McFall | Jewelry
Ted Gall | Scupture
BRONZE
canvas and paper
BEST ANNUAL EVENT GOLD
4th of July Parade SILVER
Ojai Day BRONZE
Ojai Music Festival
BEST HORSEBACK RIDING GOLD
SILVER
Ojai Valley Trail Riding Company SILVER
BEST LOCAL MUSICAL GROUP
Bodee’s Rancho Grande
BEST LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Joan Sharron | Mixed Media
Smitty West & Julia Zonic
Ojai Underground Arts Exchange
BRONZE
Libbey Bowl
Ojai Deer Lodge BRONZE
Ojai on Horseback
GOLD
BRONZE
BEST LOCAL MUSICIAN GOLD
Alan Thornhill
GOLD
SILVER
Nordhoff band and choir
Jimmy Calire
SILVER
BRONZE
Rose Valley Thorns
Julie Wellings | Ceramics
Tom Lennon
Judy Suzuki | Drawing
a GALLERY of ARTISTS REPRESENTING
the SOUL of the LOCAL ART COMMUNITY
Kristy Vantrease | Oil
David Blackburn | Wood
Sherri Sanchez | Mosaics
Bob McFall | Photography
Elaine Unzicker | Chainmail
Tom Hoerher | Watercolor
Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 43
BEST OF OJAI 2023 FOOD&DRINK BEST BAKERY GOLD
Ojai Rotie SILVER
Kate’s Bread BRONZE
Farmer and the Cook
BEST MARKET/GROCERY STORE GOLD
Westridge Market - Midtown SILVER
Westridge Market BRONZE
Rainbow Bridge
BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE GOLD
Rainbow Bridge SILVER
Farmer & the Cook BRONZE
Westridge Market - Midtown
BEST LIQUOR STORE GOLD
Ojai Beverage Company SILVER
Attitude Adjustment Shoppe BRONZE
Pat’s Liquor
BEST BBQ GOLD
Q-Time BBQ (Ojai Valley Ranch Market) SILVER
Ojai Deer Lodge BRONZE
Ojai Beverage Company
BEST BREAKFAST GOLD
Bonnie Lu's Cafe SILVER
Zaidee's Bar & Grill BRONZE
Home Kitchen of Ojai
BEST BRUNCH GOLD
Ojai Valley Inn
SILVER
Zaidee's Bar & Grill BRONZE
Bonnie Lu’s
BEST BURGER GOLD
Ojai Beverage Company SILVER
Yume Japanese Burger Café BRONZE
Jim & Rob's Fresh Grill
BEST BURRITO GOLD
Ojai Tortilla House SILVER
Jim & Rob's Fresh Grill BRONZE
Casa De Lago
BEST TACO GOLD
Ojai Tortilla House SILVER
Jim and Robs Fresh Grill BRONZE
Casa De Lago
BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT GOLD
Agave Maria’s SILVER
Casa De Lago BRONZE
Jim & Rob’s Fresh Grill
BEST CASUAL DINING GOLD
Papa Lennon’s SILVER
Boccali's Pizza BRONZE
Ojai Rotie
BEST ASIAN FOOD GOLD
Exotic Thai Restaurant SILVER
Izakaya Full Moon BRONZE
Sakura Ojai
BEST SUSHI GOLD
Sakura Ojai SILVER
Hakane Sushi BRONZE
Izakaya Full Moon
BEST ETHNIC RESTAURANT GOLD
Exotic Thai SILVER
Izakaya Full Moon BRONZE
Mandala
BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT GOLD
Boccali's Pizza SILVER
Osteria Monte Grappa BRONZE
Nocciola
BEST PIZZA GOLD
Ojai Pizza Company SILVER
Papa Lennon's Pizzeria BRONZE
Air Pizza
BEST VEGETARIAN MENU GOLD
Hip Vegan SILVER
Farmer and the Cook BRONZE
BoKU Cafe
BEST FARM TO TABLE RESTAURANT GOLD
Farmer and the Cook SILVER
Ojai Rotîe BRONZE
Rory’s Place
BEST COFFEE SHOP GOLD
SILVER
Ojai Coffee Roasting Company BRONZE
Java & Joe
BEST ROMANTIC RESTAURANT GOLD
The Ranch House SILVER
Nocciola BRONZE
The Dutchess
BEST DELI GOLD
Westridge Market - Midtown SILVER
Westridge Market BRONZE
MJ’s Deli
BEST FROZEN DESSERT GOLD
Ojai Ice Cream SILVER
Sanders & Sons Gelato BRONZE
Ojai Bliss & More
BEST DONUTS GOLD
Donut Hole SILVER
DONUT (Oak View)
BEST FINE DINING EXPERIENCE GOLD
Nocciola SILVER
Olivella - Ojai Valley Inn BRONZE
The Ranch House
BEST HAPPY HOUR GOLD
Ojai Beverage Company SILVER
Lisa’s Cantina BRONZE
Zaidee's Bar & Grill
Coffee Connection continued on page 49
44 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT BEST MARGARITA
Best of FOOD&DRINK 45
46 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
Best of FOOD&DRINK 47
Westridge Midtown Market
131 W. Ojai Ave • Open Daily 7am - 9pm • Phone 805-646-4082
2023
Westridge Market
BEST MARKET/ GROCERY STORE 802 E. Ojai Ave • Open Daily 8am - 8pm • Phone 805-646-2762
westridgemarket.com
2023
2023
BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE
GOLD BEST DELI
2023
2023
BEST GROCERY STORE
BEST DELI
Westridge Midtown Market
131 W. Ojai Ave • Open Daily 7am - 9pm • Phone 805-646-4082
Westridge Midtown Market 2023
2023
BEST MARKET/ GROCERY STORE 131 W. Ojai Ave • Open Daily 7am - 9pm • Phone 805-646-4082
westridgemarket.com
2023
BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE
GOLD BEST DELI
2023
2023
2023
BEST MARKET/ GROCERY STORE
BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE
GOLD BEST DELI
48 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
2023
Best Burrito 2023 104 N. SIGNAL STREET, OJAI (805) 797- 8675 Tuesday - Sunday 11-2 Closed Monday
Best Taco
Best of the Ojai Valley 2023 49
BEST OF OJAI 2023 FOOD&DRINK continued from page 43
BRONZE
Zaidee's Bar & Grill
BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT
BEST VINEYARD
GOLD
GOLD
Boccali's Pizza
Old Creek Ranch & Winery
SILVER
SILVER
Ojai Pizza Co.
Ojai Vineyard
BRONZE
BRONZE
Papa Lennon’s
Majestic Oak Vineyard
BEST LUNCH PLACE GOLD
Zaidee's Bar & Grill
BEST WINE TASTING BEST NEW RESTAURANT (OPENED WITHIN THE LAST 12 months)
BEST SEAFOOD
Majestic Oak Vineyard
GOLD
GOLD
Sea Fresh Ojai
Tres Hermanas
SILVER
BRONZE
SILVER
Ideal Seafood
The Nest
MJ’s Deli
SILVER
Jim & Rob's Fresh Grill
BEST MARGARITA GOLD
Agave Maria’s SILVER
Lisa’s Cantina BRONZE
Tres Hermanas
BEST COCKTAIL GOLD
Jimmy’s Pub - Ojai Valley Inn
BRONZE
Rory's Place
BEST FARMERS’ MARKET VENDOR GOLD
Friend's Ranches Inc SILVER
SILVER
SILVER
SILVER
Ojai Beverage Co. BRONZE
Ojai Valley Brewery
BEST PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK GOLD
Jimmy’s Pub - Ojai Valley Inn SILVER
Ojai Beverage Company BRONZE
Tipple & Ramble BRONZE
Sam's Place
Sakura Ojai
BEST TASTING ROOM (OTHER THAN WINE)
BEST SPORTS BAR
GOLD
GOLD
Ojai Olive Oil
Lisa’s Cantina
SILVER
Revel Kombucha Bar
SILVER
Jimmy’s Pub - Ojai Valley Inn
BRONZE
Heavenly Honey
BEST OUTDOOR DINING Boccali's Pizza
Topa Topa Brewing Co.
Old Creek Ranch & Winery
BRONZE
Ojai Olive Oil
Rory’s Place
GOLD
BRONZE
BRONZE
GOLD
BEST TAP ROOM
SILVER
The Ojai Vineyard
B.D Dautch - Earthtrine Farm
SILVER
The Dutchess
GOLD
Zaidee's Bar & Grill BRONZE
Ojai Rotîe
BEST PRODUCE GOLD
Ojai Community Farmers' Market
Delicious subs, sandwiches, sides and more.
SILVER
Baldwin Road produce stand
• Party platters • Box Lunches • Kid’s Menu • Gluten free and vegetarian options
BRONZE
Farmer and the Cook
BEST SANDWICH GOLD
MJ’s Deli SILVER
Papa Lennon’s Pizzeria BRONZE
Ojai Beverage Company
2023
Family owned and operated 423 E Ojai Ave # 105, Ojai, CA 93023 Open Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 11:00-3:00 Closed Wednesday Open Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 11:00-4:00 Order online mjsdeli.com or by phone 805.272.8687 Follow us @mjsdeli.ojai
50 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
Wine Tasting
OPEN THURSDAY THROUGH MONDAY 11 AM - 5 PM WALK-INS WELCOME
Pet Friendly — Kids Under 2 Yrs & Over 13 Yrs Welcome
2023
Thanks
for voting us Ojai Valley’s Best Vineyard!
10024 Old Creek Rd, Ventura | (805) 649-4132 | www.oldcreekranch.com
2022 2023
Best of FOOD&DRINK 51
52 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
Thank You! Dear Ojai, Thank you for making us #1 BEST COFFEE HOUSE in Ojai. We are honored to have served our community for 18 years! We value your friendship, support and patronage. Cheers to coffee and community!
With Gratitude, The Coffee Connection
Coffee Connection
Your Community Coffee & Espresso Bar Celebrating 18 years of business!
2023
311 East El Roblar Drive Ojai, CA 93023 805.646.7821 | coffeeconnection@gmail.com
Monday thru Saturday 6am -1pm
BEST BREAKFAST
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE
BEST BRUNCH
Best of FOOD&DRINK 53
2023
ORDER ONLINE! theonlygoodpizza.com
Voted Best Pizza Best Kid Friendly Restaurant
ONE OF A KIND SPECIALTY PIZZAS. 13 BEERS ON DRAFT!
PIZZA • PASTA • WINGS • SANDWICHES • SALADS AND MORE! • OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK DON’T FORGET ABOUT OUR LUNCH SPECIALS!
DOWNTOWN OJAI - 331 E. OJAI AVE. | OAK VIEW - 820 N. VENTURA AVE
@ojaipiz z acompany
805-646-7878
54 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
SEA FRESH SEAFOOD S eaf ood - S teak - S u sh i
Serving Breakfast Saturday and Sunday 8AM - 11 AM Voted ‘BEST SEAFOOD’ 14 Years in a Row!
2023
533 E. Ojai Ave
• 805-646-7747
THANK YOU OJAI for Voting us The Best 2023
2023
GOLD BEST BURGER GOLD BEST HAPPY HOUR GOLD BEST LIQUOR STORE
SILVER BEST TAP ROOM SILVER BEST PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK
2023
BRONZE BEST BBQ BRONZE BEST SANDWICH We can ship your purchases to all approved states
The Ojai Beverage Company | 655 E. Ojai Ave. Ojai, CA 93023 | 805-646-1700 | www.ojaibevco.com
Best of FOOD&DRINK 55
Thank You, Ojai! There are so many wonderful schools in Ojai. We are grateful to be one of them and to be acknowledged by the Ojai community we love so deeply.
— Oak Grove School
JOIN US ON NOVEMBER 4th OPEN HOUSE & ALL-SCHOOL SHOWCASE
SCHOOL-WIDE CAMPUS TOURS • OPEN CLASSROOMS WITH STUDENT EXHIBITS STUDENT PERFORMANCES • COMPLIMENTARY VEGETARIAN LUNCH • MEET OUR FACULTY
RSVP @ OAKGROVESCHOOL.ORG/OPEN
56 Best of the Ojai Valley 2023
Emily Wilson, Broker, President NMLS 233366
Tennay Anderson, Loan Officer NMLS 1513729
Apply A l O Online l TToday! li d !
www.HFLoansCA.com | 403 West Ojai Avenue | DRE 01254167 | NMLS 320838 Equal Housing Opportunity