23 minute read
Reed Interiors
Silk blouse and convertible bag, Catherine Gee. Shorts, Chapala and Parker. Earrings, snake ring, signet rings, cuff bracelet, lock necklace and medallion necklace, Marisa Mason Jewelry. Herringbone bracelet, Wildflower Women. 88 DINING & DESTINATIONSSunglasses, Occhiali. Pearl necklaces, Cassis. SPRING/SUMMER 2022
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Bikini and pearl necklaces, Cassis. Shirt, Waxing Poetic earrings and pearl necklace worn at the waist, The Shopkeepers. Slides, Chapala and Parker. Lariat necklace and beaded bracelet, Jules By The Sea. Cuff bracelet, Marisa Mason Jewelry. Hat, Wildflower Women.
RANSFORMATIONAL, INVITING, AND JUST SO BEAUTIFUL is what you hear when friends and family discover this new kitchen. The homeowners and Sophie Paolino, REED INTERIORS designer, worked in close collaboration to ensure every detail’s perfection. The homeowners love to cook and entertain, and this design is exactly their dream T come true. From the choice of appliances featuring state of the art Gaggenau ovens, to the flawless integration of the refrigerator, freezer, hood and cooktop - nothing was left to chance. The choice of
Italian lacquer cabinets with handle-less doors created an elegant and aerial touch. Choosing the same indoor/outdoor large format tile achieved a seamless integration with the outdoors. The final touch was matching color tones of the living room and bar area, which were redesigned by Sophie uniting the spaces as one. It takes experience and skilled workmanship to arrive at this result, and this is what the team at
REED INTERIORS strives for every day.
REED INTERIORS 590 E. GUTIERREZ, SANTA BARBARA • 805.684.7583 • REED-INTERIORS.COM
Delightful Destinations AROUND SANTA BARBARA AROUND SANTA BARBARA AROUND SANTA BARBARA AROUND SANTA BARBARA AROUND SANTA BARBARA AROUND SANTA BARBARA AROUND SANTA BARBARA AROUND SANTA BARBARA AROUND SANTA BARBARA AROUND
OF THE HUNDREDS of diversions Santa Barbara has to offer on both land and sea, these are our TOP 10 PICKS for first-time visitors, long-time travelers and born-and-raised S.B. locals.
1. EPIC CENTER: State Street, located in downtown Santa Barbara, features local boutiques, bars and restaurants, paseos and plazas, historical sites, cultural venues and theaters and now the State Street Promenade. This "pedestrians only" mall spans multiple blocks and provides additional open space where visitors can stroll, dine al fresco and enjoy outdoor entertainment and activities. downtownsb.org
2. GET FUNKY: The Funk Zone is a vibrant, eclectic mix of historical marine structures, industrial lots and old houses where art galleries, cafes, wineries, microbreweries, museums and other independent businesses converge. Located between State St. and Garden St., and Montecito
St. to Cabrillo Blvd., funkzone.net
3. TOAST OF THE TOWN: Taste a diverse variety of fine wines produced by some of the Santa
Barbara County area's best vineyards, all within blocks of downtown and the beach. Options abound for novices and aficionados alike! For a map and more info, go to urbanwinetrailsb.com
4. WALK THE PLANKS: Stearns Wharf, built in 1872 for passenger and freight shipping along the South Coast, is now home to an assortment of restaurants, shops and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center. State Street and Cabrillo Boulevard, stearnswharf.org
5. WILD THINGS: The Santa Barbara Zoo, which overlooks the Pacific Ocean, is home to 146 species of mammals, reptiles, birds and insects, with more than 500 animals on exhibit in open, naturalistic habitats. 500 Ninos Drive, 805.962.5339, sbzoo.org
SUN + SAND
EAST BEACH
Play volleyball, hit the playground or enjoy a picnic at this classic SoCal beach. 1400 Cabrillo Blvd.
WEST BEACH
Launch a kayak, go stand-up paddleboarding or windsurfing. 299 West Cabrillo Blvd..
State Street to Stearns Wharf
PC: Blake Bronstad @posesawkwardly
6. WATERFRONT WONDER: The Santa Barbara Harbor serves up some of the best waterfront, city and mountain views. Indulge in the fresh catch of the day at one of the resident restaurants, check out the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum or take a stroll along the breakwater. 113 Harbor Way, 805.962.8404, santabarbaraca.gov
7. ON A MISSION: Old Mission Santa Barbara, founded in 1786, is known as the "Queen of the Missions" and occupies a commanding position overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the city. Take a tour and then enjoy a picnic at the adjacent rose gardens. 2201 Laguna Street, 805.682.4713, santabarbaramission.org
8. ART APPRECIATION: Regarded as one of Southern California's finest, Santa Barbara Museum of Art features nationally recognized collections and special exhibitions, as well as a permanent collection comprised of more than 27,000 works. 1130 State Street, 805.963.4364, sbma.net
LEADBETTER
Learn to surf on the mellow waves that roll in below the cliffs. Shoreline Dr. and Loma Alta
INSIDERtip THE SANTA
BARBARA
MUSEUM OF
ART HOSTS
FREE THURSDAY
EVENINGS
FROM 5-8PM.
BUTTERFLY Take in a romantic sunset at this westfacing beach, across from the Four Seasons Biltmore in Montecito. 1260 Channel Drive.
9. DIVINE JUSTICE: The Santa Barbara County Courthouse is famous for its mural room, sunken gardens, and panoramic views from the top of the openair clock tower. This National Historic Landmark, built in 1929, is also a stunning example of Spanish-Moorish architecture. 1100 Anacapa Street, 805.568.2220, santabarbaracourthouse.org
10. THE NATURE OF THINGS: Founded in 1916 and housed in beautiful Spanish Revival-style buildings, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History has over 3.5 million artifacts and specimens in the fields of anthropology, archaeology, vertebrate and invertebrate biology, geology and paleontology. 2559 Puesta del Sol, 805.682.4711, sbnature.org
Know before you go: For the most current information, please be sure to check with the attractions before visiting by going to their website or by calling them directly to get the latest info, hours, etc.
aFlair Santa Barbara has a dynamic performing arts scene, featuring an impressive cast of local theater, dance, music, opera companies, and talent. Splendid, historical venues host world-
FOR THE DRAMATIC class, full-scale productions, while smaller houses premier edgy new works or experiment with unique takes on classics.
THE ARLINGTON THEATRE This 2,000 seat Mission Revival style theater, with a faux-Spanish village interior, hosts movies, concerts, lectures and more under a ceiling of twinkling stars. 1317 State Street, 805.963.4408, thearlingtontheatre.com GRANADA THEATRE Restored in March 2008, this world-class performing arts center is home to some of the area's finest performing arts companies - Opera Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Symphony, CAMA, State Street Ballet and Santa Barbara Choral Society. 1214 State Street, 805.899.2222, granadasb.org
ENSEMBLE THEATRE COMPANY AT THE NEW VIC Santa Barbara's professional resident theatre company engages audiences with thought-provoking productions ranging from new works to innovative interpretations of the classics. 33 West Victoria Street, 805.965.5400, ensembletheatre.com
The Arlington Theater was built in 1931 on the former site of the Arlington Hotel which was destroyed following the 1925 6.8 earthquake.
OUT OF THE BOX THEATRE COMPANY This non-profit community theater company presents exciting, edgy and socially relevant contemporary musicals. 805.963.8198, outoftheboxtheatre.org MUSIC ACADEMY OF THE WEST Host to hundreds of annual events, this beautiful ocean-side campus is home to one of the nation's preeminent summer schools and festivals for gifted young classical musicians. An impressive lineup of internationally renowned faculty artists, guest conductors and soloists participate and perform. 1070 Fairway Road, 805.969.4726, musicacademy.org LOBERO THEATRE California's oldest, continuously operating theater, is also home to many of Santa Barbara's outstanding performing arts organizations. Founded in 1873 and rebuilt in 1924, it is widely recognized as one of Santa Barbara's architectural jewels and designated as a State and City landmark. 33 E Canon Perdido Street, 805.966.4946, lobero.org CENTER STAGE THEATRE This intimate black box theater located in the Paseo Nuevo shopping center hosts weekly performances by various artists and companies. 751 Paseo Nuevo, 805.963.0408, centerstagetheatre.org OPERA SANTA BARBARA Exciting, high caliber operas and educational programs for the community are presented by this treasured organization. 805.898.3890, operasb.org
Green
SCENE
LOTUSLAND
Covering 37 acres on the historic estate of the late Madame Ganna Walska, this garden is unlike any other. Exceptional design and creativity combined with botanical and horticultural depth make this a must-see. Reservations are required. 805.969.9990, lotusland.org
THE SANTA BARBARA BOTANIC GARDEN
Explore the remarkable diversity of California's flora and vegetation via 5.5 miles of easy-to-walk nature trails. This living museum, widely regarded as a model botanic garden, covers over 70 acres with more than 1,000 taxa of native trees, shrubs, wildflowers and cacti. 1212 Mission Canyon Road, 805.682.4726, sbbg.org
ALICE KECK PARK MEMORIAL GARDEN
Take a self-guided tour of this botanical collection of over 75 different tree and plant species. Enjoy the koi pond, sensory garden, walking paths, butterfly garden, picnic areas and a charming gazebo. 1500 Santa Barbara Street
MORETON BAY FIG TREE
This California Historical Landmark is possibly the largest of its kind in California. Brought from Australia as a small cutting, this Ficus macrophylla is now 80 feet high and over 175 feet across. 100 West Montecito Street
SANTA CLAUS
A family-friendly locals' favorite, with a beautiful wide beach. Shop and eat nearby at Santa Claus Lane. Just north of Carpinteria.
ARROYO BURRO
AKA Hendry's, this beach is dog-friendly, has excellent sunsets, tide pools and bluffs. Dine at The Boathouse. 2981 1/2 Cliff Dr.
RINCON
This famous, world-class point break attracts surfers from around the globe. Just south of Carpinteria.
LET LET LET LET LET LET LET LET LET LET ' S' S ' S ' S ' S ' S ' S ' S ' S ' S Play!
CONDOR EXPRESS WHALE WATCHING
PC: ADAM ERNSTER @CONDOREXPRESSSB
KNOW BEFORE you go
For the most current information, please be sure to check with the attractions before visiting by going to their website or by calling them directly to get the latest info, hours, etc.
SKATER'S POINT
PC: LORENA CARO @LORENACARO.CREATIVE
SANDPIPER GOLF
AN ABUNDANCE OF ACTIVITIES, ATTRACTIONS AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURES AWAITS VISITORS OF EVERY AGE AND INTEREST. FIND THE BEST FIT, GET OUT AND ABOUT AND ENJOY SOME FRESH AIR, BLUE SKIES AND SANTA BARBARA SUNSHINE! TEE TIME Santa Barbara is well known for its scenic golf courses. The Santa Barbara Golf Club, located in the heart of the city, is one of California's most popular golf courses. The championship golf course at Sandpiper has been rated by Golf Digest as one of the top twenty-five public golf courses in the country and boasts amazing mountain and ocean views. Glen Annie Golf Club, a championship course with first-class amenities, is nestled in the beautiful surrounding foothills. Santa Barbara Golf Club: 805.687.7087, sbgolf.com; Sandpiper: 805.968.1541, sandpipergolf.com; Glen Annie: 805.968.6400, glenanniegolf.com
GET STOKED Hop on a board and give surfing and
stand up paddle boarding
a try. Santa Barbara's southfacing coast is home to great surf for beginners and experts alike. South Pacific swells send smaller waves our way in the summer, but fall and winter storms from the north Pacific can generate serious surf. That's the time to visit Rincon, a world-famous point break just south of Carpinteria, to watch expert surfers ride big waves. Leadbetter Beach in town and Campus Point at UC Santa Barbara are great for beginners. Aframesurf.com | sbsail.com
ISLANDS, HO Channel
Islands National Park offers up some of the best kayaking, snorkeling and hiking opportunities in California. Located just off the coast of Santa Barbara, the islands are home to over 2,000 plant and animal species. Beautiful marine life, pristine kelp forests, rugged coastline and hidden sea caves make this a world-class destination. Santa Barbara Adventure Company offers both day and overnight trips for beginners and advanced kayakers and snorkelers. 805.884.9283, sbadventureco.com
CAST OFF Set sail from the Santa Barbara Harbor to explore the beautiful coastline or nearby Channel Islands National Park. Local outfitters offer everything from sunset cruises, public and private guided tours, sailing lessons, boat and yacht charters and rentals. sbsail.com | sunsetkidd.com
BOARD MEETING Go for a skateboarding session at
INSIDE Scoop W
HELLO SUNSHINE! Santa Barbara revels in over 300 days of sunshine per year. With an average annual temperature of 70 degrees, there really isn't an "off-season." It's always "on" in SB!
Skater's Point, one of Southern California's coolest skateparks. This 14,600 square foot stateof-the-art park features rails, a half-pipe, fun boxes and other rad elements. It is located on the waterfront, at Garden Street and Cabrillo Boulevard. Protective gear is required. 805.564.5418, santabarbaraca.gov
A WHALE OF A TIME For a oncein-a-lifetime experience, go whale watching. Book a tour and keep your eyes open and your camera at the ready for Gray, Blue and Humpback Whales as they migrate through the Santa Barbara Channel make their way up and down the coast. Resident seals and dolphins are abundant throughout the year, and you may even see a dolphin pod with numbers in the hundreds. 805.965.1985, condorexpress.com, sbsail.com
PLAYTIME Just adjacent to the beach, you'll find the shipwreckthemed playground Chase Palm Park, which has features like a conch shell lighthouse, murals and a nautilus shell play area. With picnic areas nearby and event facilities, this park has something for everyone. 805.564.5418, santabarbaraca.gov
EXPLORE MORE The Wolf Museum of Exploration and
Innovation, otherwise known as MOXI, is Santa Barbara's newest destination for hands-on learning and fun. Discover three floors, including the rooftop Sky Garden, filled with interactive experiences in science and creativity for curious minds of all ages. Open daily 10-5. 805.770.5000, moxi.org
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center invites visitors to get to know the area's undersea creatures at their interactive marine education center located on Stearns Wharf. Guests can enjoy exhibits, a theater and a live touch pool for real hands-on experiences. 805.962.2526, sbnature.org
SILK ROAD'S KITCHEN
DAY TRIP DESTINATION: Santa Ynez Valley
For an entirely different experience, head over the pass to the heart of Santa Barbara Wine Country, where rolling, oak-studded hills hold six charming towns, each with a unique flavor. Explore the valley by horseback, indulge in fresh farm-to-table cuisine, sample the latest microbrewery batches, go wine tasting or try your luck at the Chumash Casino. For more information go to visitsyv.com.
TAKE A HIKE
You don't even have to leave the city limits for awesome activities & outdoor adventures around here.
Inspiration Point
Santa Barbara's proximity to the Santa Ynez Mountain Range provides some great hiking options. The most popular trails are found in the front country, and Inspiration Point, via Jesusita Trail is at the top of our list. At around 2.5 miles round trip, this hike is doable for most hikers and rewards with stunning views of the city and Pacific Ocean. Directions: Take Tunnel Road all the way to the end, where the trail begins on a paved fire road. At the end of the paved road, head straight up the dirt path. After about a 1/4 mile, take the trail to the left, head up and enjoy! Note: parking is limited. For additional front country, backcountry and ocean trail options, go to santabarbarahikes.com
FAN FAVORITE
BRICK BARN WINE ESTATE
A Cultured COAST
SANTA BARBARA HISTORICAL MUSEUM Located in the heart of the historic downtown El Pueblo Viejo District, the museum collection includes relics from Chumash, Spanish, Mexican, Yankee and Chinese cultures, and artifacts and textiles that date back to the 15th century. 805.966.1601, sbhistorical.org
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART SANTA BARBARA As the leading contemporary arts presenter in Central California, the museum hosts three rotating exhibitions per year, each on view for fourteen weeks. Check the museum website for the exhibition schedule. Admission is free. 805.966.5373, mcassantabarbara.org
SANTA BARBARA MARITIME MUSEUM Located at the harbor and dedicated to preserving the California Coast maritime heritage, the museum is home to the impressive Point Conception First Order Fresnel Lighthouse Lens and a variety of highly interactive exhibits. 805.962.8404, sbmm.org
CARRIAGE & WESTERN ART MUSEUM See a collection of over 50 saddles, once belonging to the Cisco Kid, Will Rogers and others, along with exhibits featuring everything from vintage hearses to old stagecoaches. 805.962.2353, carriagemuseum.org
KARPELES MANUSCRIPT MUSEUM This museum houses a remarkable permanent collection, including an original stone copy of the Declaration of Independence, handwritten scores by leading composers and the computer guidance system from the first Apollo flight to the moon. 805.962.5322, karpeles.com
HAPPENING IN SB
CALENDAR
APRIL
Santa Barbara Museum of Art Presents the West Coast Debut of Through Vincent's Eyes: Van Gogh and His Sources
SBMA van Gogh exhibit - Vincent van Gogh (Dutch, 1853–1890), Les Vessenots in Auvers, 1890. Oil on canvas, Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid
This landmark exhibition features over 100 works from 25 museums as it seeks to immerse viewers in the visual imagination of one of the most beloved artists in the world. Presenting 20 works of art by Van Gogh alongside some 75 objects selected to reflect the surprisingly varied art he most admired, the show firmly reconnects Vincent to his late 19th-century context. Over 60 artists are represented in the exhibition. The exhibition also taps into Van Gogh's literary imagination by displaying first-edition novels to conjure up the fictional worlds that inflamed Vincent's inner eye. Now through May 22, 2022. For more info, go to sbma.net
23: 2022 Santa Barbara Earth Day
Festival This year's free single-day festival (with a ticketed, evening concert) will take place in and around the Arlington Theatre with speakers, a green car show, interactive booths, art contests and more. Join in on conversations with climate leaders and participate in activities designed to inspire and motivate community-building and climate change action. sbearthday.org
16-22: Taste of Santa Barbara Join Santa Barbara Culinary Experience in a county-wide celebration of all things food and drink from our bountiful area. Local restaurants, farmers, and winemakers will offer special set menus, pop-ups, workshops, and dining offers all week long that showcase local talent and small businesses. sbce.events
28-30: I Madonnari Italian Street Painting Festival Street painters create vibrant chalk paintings on the Santa Barbara Mission plaza pavement, and the adjacent Mission lawn is filled with live music, Italian cuisine and an authentic Italian market. imadonnarifestival.com
JUNE
TBD: Summer Solstice Celebration
and Parade Celebrate the longest day of the year at one of the area's largest and most colorful events. The weekendlong party starts at Alameda Park on Friday afternoon with live music, arts and crafts booths, food and a beer and wine garden, followed by the parade at noon on Saturday. solsticeparade.com
25: Santa Barbara Food + Wine
Festival Head to the beautiful Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History to sip and savor 100+ of the Central Coast's best wineries and culinary delights while enjoying a splendid summer afternoon in the museum's oak woodland along Mission Creek. mysbnature.org
JULY
4: 4th Of July Fireworks Celebration
The City of Santa Barbara hosts a spectacular 20-minute fireworks display at West Beach starting at 9 pm. santabarbaraca.gov
15-16: California Wine Festival This wine-lovers event culminates with a day of fun and sun at the Beachside Wine Festival. Sample regional wines, microbrews and gourmet food from local chefs. californiawinefestival.com
AUGUST
3-7: 97th Old Spanish Days Fiesta
Santa Barbara's rich cultural history and traditions are celebrated with various events and performances - traditional Spanish Classical and Flamenco dancing, Mexican Folklórico music, the Fiesta Historical Parade, and colorful open-air "mercados," cantinas and carnivals. sbfiesta.org 13: Surf' N' Suds Tap into a day of sunshine, surfboard shapers, live entertainment, vendors, and beers from over 70 local breweries, along with wine, cider and kombucha at this unique event held at Carpinteria State Beach. surfbeerfest.com
WHENEVER
DIY Tour - SB on Foot
From the Urban Wine Trail and Funk Zone to the sandy shores of Butterfly Beach and Coast Village Road in Montecito, Santa Barbara streets, trails and paths invite visitors to discover the beauty and details of the area at a slower pace. A variety of self-guided tour options ranging from 12 blocks up to 5.8 miles, along with several free guided tours, are available. So, lace up your walking shoes and see why Santa Barbara has been designated a Gold-Level Community by the national recognition program, Walk Friendly Communities. For more info and downloadable maps go to santabarbaracarfree.org
Wharf Wednesdays at Stearns Wharf
In honor of this iconic structure's 150th anniversary, Stearns Wharf merchants will hold Wharf Wednesdays on the first Wednesday of each month. There'll be live music, anniversary specials, a bit of history and lots of fun, family-friendly activities. In October, the commemoration will culminate with a special celebration, complete with fireworks. 4:00-6:00 pm stearnswharf.org
It's the sunny season in SB, and the spring/summer social calendar is warming up! From special art exhibitions to colorful parades, wine tastings and concerts under the stars, there's an array of enticing activities and events to lure you out and about! +Music, Theater and Foodie Festivals to satisfy every fan and enthusiast's palette.
*PLEASE NOTE* These listings may not reflect the most recent updates. Please check the official event websites to confirm dates and current information.
PHOTO: ANDREW ECCLES
UCSB ARTS & LECTURES
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater April 13 & 14 The Granada Theatre
Celebrating over 60 years of unparalleled artistry, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater stands tall as an enduring cultural touchstone, reminding us of the power of dance to bring people together. The groundbreaking company returns to Santa Barbara with new and classic works, including founder Alvin Ailey's masterpiece Revelations. artsandlectures.ucsb.edu
What's On-going
THESE ONCE-A-WEEK TREATS OFFER UP FARM-FRESH FINDS, LOCAL ARTISAN GOODS, WORLD-CLASS MUSIC AND MORE
< FARMERS MARKET Separate markets are held six days a week, year-round, in the Santa Barbara area - the most popular on Tuesday afternoons, downtown, and a few blocks from State Street on Saturday mornings. Local farmers offer fresh seasonal products, including a diverse array of vegetables, fruits, honey, nuts, flowers, meat, seafood and other artisanal products. For a weekly schedule, go to sbfarmersmarket.org
SANTA BARBARA ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW Santa Barbara County artists set up shop every Sunday, year-round from 10:00-dusk along Santa Barbara's waterfront on Cabrillo Boulevard (from Stearns Wharf to Calle Cesar Chavez). santabarbaraca.gov
< 1ST THURSDAY Check out this award-winning program highlighting downtown arts, culture and entertainment on the first Thursday of every month. All 1st Thursday attractions are free. 5:00-8:00 pm, downtownsb.org
STATE STREET PROMENADE MARKET Local artisans line the 900 and 1000 blocks of the State Street Promenade every Thursday from 3:00-7:30 pm. Guests can enjoy temporary art and light installations, sample downtown food and drink and occasional live music. statestreetpromenade.com
SANTA BARBARA BOWL CONCERTS The historic venue known as the "Bowl" is one of the most scenic and intimate amphitheaters in the US. It attracts world-class artists to perform under the stars and amidst beautiful old-growth oak trees. For a complete list of upcoming concerts, visit sbbowl.com
SEASONAL + SEASONAL + WELL-SEASONED WELL-SEASONED
A FRESH TAKE ON PICNIC STANDARDS
-Ayda Robana
Try this wine! Vinovore Feeling Lucky Rosé, vinovore.com
AH, THE SIMPLE PLEASURES OF A PICNIC, BE IT A SUNNY DAY AT THE BEACH, A GRASSY PARK OR ALFRESCO JUST A FEW STEPS OUT OF YOUR BACK DOOR. WITH A BIT OF PLANNING, THESE DO-AHEAD RECIPES MODERNIZE PICNIC CLASSICS LIKE FRIED CHICKEN AND COLESLAW WITH NEXT-LEVEL TANGY FLAVORS AND JUST THE RIGHT HINT OF HEAT.
KOR E AN FRIED CH I C KEN
1 whole chicken (ask your butcher to cut it up in 8 pieces, removing the backbone and specify “bone-in, skin-on”)
MARINADE FOR THE CHICKEN
3 - 4 cloves of garlic 4 tablespoons fish sauce 1 tablespoon sriracha 1 small bunch of cilantro 1 tablespoon coconut sugar ¼ cup fresh squeezed lime juice 2 scallions, chopped 1 stick of grated lemongrass
Blend all of the above ingredients in a food processor. Place the chicken and the marinade in a resealable bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. When you are ready to cook the chicken, remove from the fridge blot the excess marinade off the chicken using paper towels. Let the chicken come to temperature on a baking sheet or cooling rack for 30 minutes before frying. In a heavy Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet, heat 1 ½ quarts of neutral vegetable or sunflower oil. Allow it to heat up to about 360 degrees (usually 5-7 minutes) while you dredge your chicken in the flour mixture.
Fry the chicken in batches, browning on each side before turning. Total fry time is about 10 minutes per batch (don’t overcrowd the chicken in the pot!). Remove chicken when browned and put it on a paper towel-lined rack. Once you’re finished frying all the chicken, remove the paper towels, place the rack on a cookie sheet, and bake in a preheated 425-degree oven for about 10 minutes. While the chicken is in the oven, whisk together 1 tablespoon honey and 2 tablespoons of tamari or soy sauce. Once the chicken comes out of the oven, brush this mixture onto the chicken and serve.
O N TH E S IDE
BOK CHOY SLAW
4 or 5 baby bok choy, chopped into ½ inch pieces 1 small head of Napa cabbage, shredded 4 scallions, chopped
MISO DRESSING
1 small shallot 2 cloves garlic 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 1 tablespoon coconut sugar 2 tablespoons fish sauce 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger 1 heaping tablespoon white miso ½ cup of vegan mayonnaise (or mayonnaise)
Mix the above dressing ingredients in a food processor or blender. Toss the vegetables with the dressing and allow to marinate a bit. Optional - garnish with some toasted sesame seeds or more sliced scallion.
SMASHED CUCUMBER SALAD
8 small Persian cucumbers (pound with a rolling pin or meat mallet)
DRESSING
2 tablespoons fish sauce 1 tablespoon coconut sugar 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 1 clove garlic, grated The juice of 2 limes, squeezed 1 tablespoon chili sesame oil ¼ cup mint, chopped ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
Put all of the dressing ingredients in a bowl and whisk together. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and marinate for at least 10-15 minutes before serving.
ABOUT Ayda Robana
Inspired by Santa Barbara’s beauty and abundance, chef Ayda Robana started her catering company in 2007. She was among the first to bring the pop-up dining experience to the local culinary scene. Ayda can help create and execute the perfect dining experience for your next event and is also available for food styling and cooking classes.
Ayda Robana Catering • 805.837.9009 • aydarobana.com
