TravelSavvy Presents: Ventura County West

LOCAL PICKS:

BEST OF

CAMARILLO | OXNARD HUENEME | VENTURA 1

INCREDIBLE FOOD WINE FESTIVALS GALLERIES BEACHES SURF HIKING AND SO MUCH MORE

Anacapa Lighthouse, Photo Credit: Michele W on Flickr EDITORIAL

PUBLISHING

495 COMMUNICATIONS LLC

Editor-in-Chief PAULA KEUNG paula@495communications.com

Publisher CRAIG PAVIA craig@495communications.com

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SOCIAL

+1 888.983.1620 | New York, Š 2015

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

declare this quad of towns as paradise. From the sound of things, it’s all sunshine and beaches in Camarillo, Oxnard, Hueneme and Ventura. Popular local pastimes include relaxing over a good meal, sipping excellent wines from local cellars, enjoying the outdoors and living the good life.

EDITOR’S LETTER from Paula Keung, Editor-In-Chief

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very fall, the trees in New York start to turn bright yellow and orange and begin to shake loose from the branches, while the thermostat begins its slow dip into lower temps. I enjoy everything about the coming of winter. Darker nail polish, dressing in layers, warm cups of coffee against cold hands...all wonderful. But, inevitably, the cold air starts to bite at my thighs through my jeans, my ears hurt, and I can’t leave the house without a tight woolen cap, which means hat-hair for the rest of the season. And that’s when I start the winter cursing and the California dreamin.’

After spending the last few months meeting locals from Ventura County West, I understand why some

Whatever your fancy, it’s easy to find it right here.

Golfers can play on a number of courses, including the 18-hole championship courses at Sterling Hills or Olivas Links. Hikers, campers and mountain bikers can head for the Santa Monica Mountains, the winding trails at Arroyo Verde Park or the stunning Channel Islands National Park.

For those who feel that shopping is a form of exercise, locals recommend checking out Ventura’s Main Street, home to small boutiques and sweet cafes. Or you can head to one of the area’s retail destinations for a traditional outdoor California experience; we suggest The Collection at Riverpark in Oxnard or the Camarillo Premium Outlets.

Museum of Ventura County has an excellent exhibition on the tribe’s spiritual beliefs. In the 1700s Spanish explorers began to make their mark in the area, setting up the Mission San Buenaventura.

A century later, Mexican settlers and their families arrived; today, the significance of Spanish influences are seen all over local architecture in historic buildings like the Camarillo Ranch House and the beautiful Anacapa Lighthouse in the Channel Islands.

The consistently sunny climate and the rich soil contributes to fertile farmlands, abundant farmers’ markets and fresh local foods. It really is hard to classify Ventura County West into any singular vacation category. With the abundant reasons to plan a visit and the inspiring choices available for just about any appetite, it may be the perfect answer to that vacation you never seem to take.

It’s getting cold here on the East Coast.

I’ll see you in Ventura County West!

Come enjoy adventure water sports like surfing, boating and deep sea fishing, or just sit on the miles of pristine beaches and catch rays while dolphins jump the waves in the distance.

History is rich around these parts. European explorers first arrived in the 1500s and met the remarkably skilled Chumash Indians, who have inhabited the area since at least 10,000 BC. Today, the Chumash tribe still live around these parts; the

To plan the perfect trip to VCWest: visit venturacountywest.com

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CONTENTS 3 EDITOR’S LETTER 5 CHEERS TO VCWest Wineries Weigh In

FRONT: Palm Trees, Photo Credit: Wendell on Flickr

9 EAT HERE NOW VCWest: A Food Tour

11 THE PLEASANT VALLEY Yoga and More in Camarillo

BACK: Surfers, Photo Credit: snapper on Flickr

Ventura Harbor, Photo Credit: neilw12 on Flickr

13 BEST-KEPT SECRETS

Underground Gourmet’s Take On Local Flavor

16 GALLERIES GALORE VCWest’s Exciting Art Scene

19 PORT OF INTERNATIONAL FLAVORS A Tour of Hueneme’s Budget Dining

Camarillo Premium Outlet

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FEATURING KAREN STEWART, FOUR BRIX WINERY & DAVID WHITTEMORE, HERZOG WINE CELLARS Behind the wine world’s “big three”—France, Italy and Spain—the next major producer of the world’s vino is sunny California. Ever since Father Junipero Serra planted vines in mission gardens from San Diego to Sonoma in the late 1700s, the region’s year­ -round temperate climate and abundant sunshine, along with the rich and varied soil, has propeled the creation of a whopping 4,200 wineries.

They produced more than 709 billion gallons of red, white, and sparkling varieties in 2014. In Ventura County West, wine lovers will be delighted to learn there are a handful of boutique wineries and wine-­

tasting rooms operated by locals. The beautiful weather not only produces amazing grapes, but the area is ripe for enjoying the California sunshine, where you can bike, hike, swim, kayak and surf. In short, it’s the best of all possible worlds.

We connected with Karen Stewart from Four Brix and David Whittemore of Herzog Cellars and talked about beaches, picnics and the simple beauty of a perfect cup of coffee.

KAREN STEWART Born from a love of wine, Four Brix was established in 2008 by three couples that had been studying and making wine for years. This charming boutique winery sources grapes for their small lot wines from Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, Sonoma and Ojai.

Karen left a career in real estate to pursue her dreams of viniculture and sipping cabernet by the beach. Plan a visit to the tasting room, dubbed The BrixHouse, and relax with a glass of zesty Scosso or a fruity Rhonezvous with one of their fresh pizzas.

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HARBOR LIGHTS:

BRUNCH AND A BLOODY:

“We are lucky to live near the Channel Islands Harbor, which was created in the ‘60s from the existing wetlands. Today, it is home to a busy dock, boating concessions and a little shopping and dining village, as well as a residential area. The most beautiful time to come out is during the holidays, when you can ride out into the harbor and see the homes decorated with Christmas lights at dusk.

Rent a little electric boat from Hopper Rentals, or you can go paddle boarding or kayaking as well.”

“Other than wine, I enjoy a good Bloody Mary.

I have two places to recommend: Social Tap offers a terrific Build Your Own Bloody Mary bar. I make mine a little on the spicy side. A more casual place is Harbor Cove Cafe at the very end of Spinnaker Drive at Ventura Harbor Village. Come for brunch.

Order a breakfast burritos and the Bloody Mary which comes with a slice of bacon! Work off brunch with a spin on the Village Carousel or shop at the boutiques along the walkway.”

Baubles Sparkling Wine, Photo Credit: ediblefeast.com

EDIBLE OCEAN: “One of our local gems in Ventura is the beautiful San Buenaventura State Beach, right off the 101.

Come and make a day of it; there are bathrooms, volleyball nets, bike paths, a rental shop and picnic areas. The lot costs only $10, but usually we look for street parking on the blocks around the entrance.

The pier is great for a stroll and best of all, you can stop at the Jolly Oyster stand, where you can pick up shuck-your-own clams and oysters! Bring a bottle of our sparkling Baubles, pack a shucker and a cooler with ice.”

Social Tap Eatery

Harbor Lights, Photo Credit: mgobbi on Flickr

Ventura Harbor Village

Jolly Oyster

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DAVID WHITTEMORE

SHOP LOCALLY: “One of the nicest things about living here is some of the adorable small shops you can pop into. There is a fragrant little space on Main Street, Spicetopia, where you can browse spices, sugars, salts, teas, coffees and gifts, some of which are displayed in big glass jars along the walls. They also carry several local makers’ products.

A few doors down from from Spicetopia is Vom Fass, a retailer that offers oils, gourmet vinegars, liqueurs, whiskey, brandy and more ‘from the tap.’

I like that you can select from an awesome array of beautiful bottles in various shapes and sizes to fill with your favorite find.”

Vom Fass, Photo Credit: maltandoak.com

Launched in 1848, the Herzog family’s debut in wines began as an official wine supplier to the royal court of AustroHungarian Emperor Franz Joseph. Over a century later, the brand continues their tradition at a sprawling facility in Oxnard with two internationally recognized labels: Herzog and Baron Herzog Wines. In addition to the tasting rooms and landscaped terraces, the winery has the added benefit of an on-site restaurant, Tierra Sur, where guests can enjoy Mediterranean-influenced California cuisine.

The Winery’s PR director, David Whittemore, has been living in the area for over six years and has fallen in love with the innately creative vibe. “Ventura County West is a community that values the arts and crafting—from live performances to dance, from craft breweries to boutique wineries.”

An avid hiker and outdoors man, David also raves about the picturesque natural beauty of the region that makes exploring the local trails a divine experience. “I once discovered a hidden grove of oak trees, carpeted beneath with a meadow of tall grass, forming soft waves as the wind blew across it.

I just stood there and took in the beauty around me, and how fortunate I felt to be there in that instant.”

HIKING HABIT:

Spicetopia, Photo Credit: Vacation Destinations on YouTube

Arroyo Verde Park, Photo Credit: Wendell on Flickr

“Along the Southern shoreline of Ventura County West is the Santa Monica Mountain Range; it stretches about 40 miles from Point Mugu to the Hollywood Hills, and wrapped on all sides with hiking trails of every sort. There are moments out there when it seems like time stands still—the sky overhead a brilliant blue, huge goldcolored rock formations, lush green brush and 7 | ventura county west

the blue of the Pacific Ocean on the horizon. In the area, we have many parks with marked trails, like Arroyo Verde Park, which has a 300-foot elevation that affords amazing ocean views, and Grant Park, where you can find the historic Serra Cross and the beautiful Ventura Botanical Gardens.”

Old County Courthouse, Photo Credit: Ken Lund on Flickr

MAIN DRAG:

Ventura Botanical Garden, Photo Credit: Robin Kanouse on Flickr

“In town, I love walking down Ventura’s Main Street.

Everything from boutique gourmet foods and eateries, to small wine-tasting rooms, to midcentury knickknacks can be found there. At the end of road, you will run into the Mission San Buenaventura and the Old County Courthouse. Both are absolutely gorgeous and worth a stop to appease your inner architect/history buff.

To top off your stroll, I recommend Palermo Coffee Shop for a vanilla chai and something decadent to nibble while you watch the sunset turn from orange to pink to purple.”

WINERIES IN VENTURA COUNTY WEST 1. Back Patio Cellars 2. Bella Victorian Vineyard 3. Camarillo Custom Crush 4. Cantara Cellars 5. Millesime Cellars 6. San Vincente Cellars 1. Herzog Wine Cellars 2. Magnavino

Serra Cross, Photo Credit: Konrad Summers on Flickr

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Take time to visit the Channel Islands National Park, encompassing the five remarkable islands of Anacapa, San Miguel, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, and Santa Rosa. Just 11 miles off the coast, visit the official site to learn how you can spend a captivating hour or several enchanted days exploring wildlife, diving, kayaking, camping, birdwatching and so much more.

Camarillo

3. Rancho Ventavo Cellars

Oxnard

4. Strey Cellars 1. BlendZ Winery 2. Four Brix Winery 3. Labyrinth Winery 4. Panaro Brothers Winery 5. Plan B Cellars

Ventura

COFFEE BREAK Beacon Coffee 5777 Olivas Park Dr, Ventura

FEATURING ALLISON COSTA, VENTURA FOOD TOURS

“Beacon is a mecca for the perfect cup of coffee. The owners, John and Jennifer, are dedicated to producing the best product using single-origin and small batch beans along with meticulous roasting and brewing methods. The Guatemala is my favorite brewed coffee (pour over method of course) and they make a mean cappuccino, as well.”

After realizing that Ventura County West was filled with excellent dining, Allison launched Ventura Food Tours as a savvy guide for locals and tourists alike to savor some of the best dining in the area. “I love eating out and trying new foods and being wowed by incredible chefs and wonderful recipes. When I find a place I love, I can’t help myself—I just have to tell everyone I know.”

We consulted with Allison about her favorite bites and sips across the county.

You’ll know exactly where to eat with her insider’s list.

wines feature grapes from Lodi in Central California, which is known as the Zinfandel Capital of the World.

Be sure to try the Zinfandel when you stop by.”

Paradise Pantry 222 East Main St, Ventura

According to today’s dictionary, a “foodie” is one who “possesses an enthusiastic interest in the preparation and consumption of good food. In our search for just the right foodie to discuss local eats, we happily connected with Allison Costa, owner of Ventura Food Tours.

Allison landed in Ventura a decade ago in search of sunshine and adventure.

“I’m originally from the East Coast, and I’ve never lived anywhere more beautiful,” she explains. “The Santa Monica Mountains are on one side, and the beautiful blue ocean is on the other. We can travel north to Santa Barbara and south to Los Angeles and beyond with ease. On top of that, I just love the laid back vibe of Southern California.”

Cantara Cellars

Beacon Coffee

HAPPY HOUR

“Paradise Pantry is my go-to place when going out for lunch, dinner or a glass of wine. The space is cozy, the food and service are consistently good, and everything on the menu is well-executed. Artisan cheese plates, yummy salads, soups and a selection of gourmet grilled-cheese sandwiches (my personal favorite) are just perfect with the wine selections.”

Cantara Cellars 126 Wood Road, Camarillo “When I host out-of-town visitors, I love to take them to a local winery.

We have several that are excellent, but I particularly like Cantara because of the mellow mood and the terrific owners, Chris and Mike Brown. Their

Paradise Pantry

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Poseidon Brewing Company

Spencer Makenzie’s

Tierra Sur at Herzog Winery

5777 Olivas Park Dr, Ventura

806 E Thompson Blvd, Ventura

3201 Camino Del Sol, Oxnard

“Beer lovers all over the county know about this small brewery tucked in the back of an industrial complex.

Everything is made in-house, the owners and their staff are welcoming, and the atmosphere is super casual.

The beers are creative and yummy, especially the Grapefruit IPA.”

“One of the best restaurants in town is located just up the street from the beach. It’s a casual place, the service is wonderful and the giant fish tacos, ceviche and ahi pockets are fantastic.”

“For a special event or happy treat, my pick is the excellent on-site Mediterranean restaurant at Herzog Winery. I love their tomato salad and pastas! Usually, there is a special of the day, created with an emphasis on seasonal produce. Wine-pairing options are always spot on.

Reservations recommended.”

BEST OF DINING Curry Leaf 5253 Mission Oaks Blvd, Camarillo “A delightfully authentic place to enjoy Indian cuisine! The intimate space is usually packed with locals who come for the little dishes of curry served in copper pots brimming with flavor. Love their chicken saag and chicken lollipops!”

Carnitas Taco, Photo Credit: Mike McCune

Scratch Food Truck Various Locations “If I’m in the mood to eat outside— which is often since it’s always 75 degrees and sunny—I log on to Twitter to find out where Scratch will be for the day. The truck specializes in locally sourced ingredients and everything is super-fresh. Try the pulled pork PB&J and the french fries with homemade ketchup. It’s so good, they’ve bottled it!”

Establos Meat Market

Spencer Makenzie’s

Sunflowers on the Square 451 E Main St, Ventura

Tierra Sur

“Classic bakery specializing in homebaked goods and delightful small savory dishes.”

2633 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo “Right off the freeway is a small dry-goods and grocery stand that also serves authentic Mexican dishes, including the best tacos I’ve ever had.

Or I pick up their amazing marinated meats and tortillas to make my own at home.”

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Scratch Food Truck

“I absolutely love the Limoncello Cookie from Sunflowers on the Square.

Owner Nancy bakes it with with lavender, pecans and white chocolate chips.”

Tierra Sur

FEATURING AUDREY WALZER

EAT AND DRINK Manhattan of Camarillo

A charming combination of coastal beauty, salt-tinged air, sun-kissed shoulders and happy smiles is exactly what you’ll find the moment you breeze into Ventura County West for a little R&R. Locals here live and breathe this quiet calm on a daily basis.

In Camarillo, locally known as the ‘Pleasant Valley,’ some opt to relax and de-stress with a Mindful Yoga session at Camarillo Yoga Center, owned and operated by yoga teacher Audrey Walzer. Audrey has been voted Best Yoga Teacher in the Ventura County Reporter’s Reader Poll for the past five years.

“Our teachers are here to untie some of life’s knot’s with safe stretches to strengthen and balance your body for good health and peace of mind.”

5800 Santa Rosa Road, Camarillo

Manhattan of Camarillo

Wine Closet

Originally from Toronto, Audrey has proudly been part of the community for the last 20 years and proclaims: “Camarillo is an unpretentious, big-hearted town, and there is simply no place I’d rather live.”

2423 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo

What’s not to love? “The Mediterranean climate is amazing, it is close to the beach, mountains and big cities, but retains a small-town, friendly feeling.”

Indeed, finding inner peace can come in a variety of forms, both on and off the mat. Audrey shares a few of the Zen things she loves about Camarillo and the greater area.

“This is my favorite local restaurant with a lovely romantic atmosphere that offers superb pastas and Italian classics. The chef is from Italy; he makes the most delightful cannelloni and tiramisu. In case you’re in La Jolla, visit the sister restaurant, located in the Empress Hotel.”

Wine Closet

“Locals Linda and Rob Hunter own a lovely local wine shop and tasting room, the Wine Closet in Old Town Camarillo. I love coming in to learn a bit more about wine from the knowledgeable and friendly staff or just tuck into a great conversation with friends over a perfect bottle, like my favorite, the 2012 Nicora Brown.”

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Somis Nut House

Somis Nut House 4475 E Los Angeles Ave, Somis “We have a wonderful local tradition called ‘going to the Nut House.’ We’re talking about Somis, which has been around for 56 years and run by the Resnik family. I get a ton of my own pantry items there, like trail mixes and dried fruit, but come holiday season or for an occasion, I’ll pop by for gift boxes, too.”

Hartley Botanica Gardens and Nursery

FLORA AND FAUNA Hartley Botanica Gardens and Nursery 4465 Balcom Canyon Road, Somis “One of the most popular spots locally is a beautiful nursery and garden facility that also serves as a wedding venue. The sprawling venue is open to the public during the week, and it is a little slice of heaven. Take a stroll on the stone pathways lined with bamboo, look at the fruit trees and Japanese maples with the sound of the tricking water fountains filling the air. Hartley is like a secret garden in our own backyard. And, in the summer, we host yoga classes there. ” 12

Camarillo Farmers’ Market East Ventura Blvd, Camarillo “Seventy-degree weather year-round and the nearby beautiful farmlands means that Ventura County West residents enjoy abundant farmers’ markets.

Our local weekly market happens Saturday mornings and features lots of locally grown organic produce. You’ll find some amazing breads and snacks—everything from popcorn to granol a bars to dog treats! The market benefits Camarillo Hospice, with a percentage of sales going to assist patients and their families. The market runs from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., so you can start out at the nearby Element Coffee for creamy cappuccino and

some local flavor before strolling the booths and enjoying our wonderful sunshine.

After I walk the market, coffee in hand, sometimes I’ll pop over to the Studio Channel Islands Blackboard Gallery and Studios, located in-between the Market and Element Coffee. There are always terrific installations from talented local artists, and the individual artist studios are open for visitors on the first Saturday of each month to see the work and meet the artists. In addition, locals can take classes and attend events here. It’s a truly wonderful place for creativity in our little town.”

FABULOUS FESTIVALS The California Beer Festival, Mission Park “One of my favorite events is the annual California Beer Festival, which has been hosted in Mission Park since 2009. Expect over 140 different beers, food and beer pairing competitions featuring local chefs, shopping vendors, live music and plenty of fun.

FEATURING MEGAN ROGERS From the days of the chuck wagon to the rise of the ice cream truck and lunch carts, mobile food has come a long way.

In just about every American city, an excellent meal can be had that is cooked on-the-go and served from the side of a tricked-out delivery van.

Megan Rogers operates The Underground Gourmet Food Truck, feeding hungry customers all around Ventura County West and beyond. As a chef, Mega likes to give classic dishes an unexpected twist. Fans flock to the truck for her burgers, tacos and Chorizo Cheese Fries. “I created the fries after a long day, when I was digging around for something that would hit the spot.

Chorizo gives the dish a nice spicy kick, and I serve it with cilantro and a spicy chipotle aioli. They’ve become a popular item!”

After a lifetime of globetrotting and living on the East Coast, Pacific Northwest and London, Megan has made Ventura County West her home base.

She adores the seaside village feel, combined with modern metropolitan sensibilities. “Ventura has a true beachy presence, while Camarillo mixes urban hipness with California cool,” she explains. “Both Oxnard and Hueneme offer some of the prettiest, most unspoiled shorelines in all of the state.”

California Beer Festival

Being a mobile business means Megan is constantly driving around to parks, festivals, landmarks, beaches, markets and more. “I meet a ton of really nice people and get to attend all the fun events in the area. It’s an adventure every day.” Find Megan at one of her favorite festivals and places in VCWest.

The event organizers of the Beer Fest also host the annual Winter Wine Walk on the first Saturday each December, which features a full day of wine tasting and holiday shopping. It concludes in the evening in front of historic City Hall, where the organizers find a way to bring snow to sunny California. Come to both!”

For more festivals and events year round: visit venturacountywest.com 13 | ventura county west

Surf Rodeo, Pierpont Beach

Oxnard Salsa Festival, Plaza Park

“This beach front event gives you everything you’d want in a summer weekend: music, surfing, beach, food and contests. Everyone wears a cowboy hat, and you can even ride a mechanical bull! Attendees can also win a refurbished VW, with raffle funds going to the local Boys and Girls Club.”

“For over 20 years, the Salsa Festival has been shaking things up in downtown Oxnard. It’s a tribute to everything to do with the dance, the music and the food. It’s one of the most popular summer celebrations, boasting live bands, food trucks and tasting contests, shopping and kids’ activities.

Oxnard Salsa Festival, Photo Credit: Kimberly Mahr on Flickr

DON’T MISS… Surf Rodeo

California Strawberry Festival, College Park “A weekend-long tribute to the strawberry, visitors all over California and beyond come to Oxnard for the savory and sweet foods, arts and crafts, live entertainment, cooking demonstrations and more. It’s decades old, and every year it just gets better!”

California Strawberry Festival

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California Strawberry Festival

Camarillo Public Libary, 4101 East Las Posas Rd, Camarillo “One of our town’s best-kept secrets is this amazing library! It’s spacious, clean and bright. You can always count on finding a good seat, excellent Wi-Fi and many electrical outlets throughout. No outside food allowed, but just pop into the on-site coffee shop for your caffeine fix. Since they host several storytimes and events for kids of all ages, consider this a must-visit for younger travelers.

Otherwise, come for the gorgeous workspace, friendly staff and great books!”

Camarillo Public Library

Channel Islands Harbor, 3810 West Channel Islands Boulevard, Oxnard

Navy Seabee Museum, 1001 Addor St, Port Hueneme

“At the southwest end of Ventura County West, you’ll find a beautifully designed harbor village that serves the California Channel Islands. Lots of small crafts are docked here and there are plenty of rental concessions for sporting equipment, like paddleboards and kayaks.

“Port Hueneme is home to a pretty beach that surfers love and a gorgeous pier.

It is also notable for the Naval Base that stretches across to Point Mugu. This base is home to the Pacific Seabees, the Naval Construction Battalion. Military buffs and curious travelers should visit the Seabee Museum for a fun history lesson on the battalion’s works from the 1940s to today. Younger visitors will appreciate the interactive hands-on exhibition for ages 6 to 12. The museum will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Seabees in 2017, and new exhibits will be in place for the occasion.”

Day excursions with tour companies, such as Island Packers, offer myriad activities: whale watching, sailing and camping. Or, you can sport fish and kayak around the Channel Islands National Park. A full list of companies that offer services at the harbor are on the official website.

My favorite thing to do is to come for an evening of window shopping and enjoying the sunset. I also stay for dinner at the Brazillian restaurant Moqueca; the atmosphere is lively and the seafood dishes are super fresh.”

Navy Seabees Museum, Photo Credit: U.S. Navy Seabee Museum on Flickr

Whale watching with the Island Packers

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Foamy Flute, Photo Credit: Steve Munch

Miles of white-sand beaches, rows of statuesque palms, historic Spanish-style missions along the main boulevards—Ventura County West is a splendidly gorgeous part of Central California, complete with world-class dining, entertainment and style. Artists have it easy in this part of town. There is beauty in every corner, inspiring creativity and originality in any medium.

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FEATURING RICH THOMPSON We connected with local surfer and photographer Rich Thompson to talk about where to browse local works. “Locals here enjoy an enriching cultural community,” explains Rich. “We’ve got lots of really talented artists in the area. Plus, every month, visitors from all across the county attend First Fridays, when galleries host open houses to support the work and talent. Once a year in July, we also have the Ventura ArtWalk, which is a full weekend of festivities. Attendees take self-guided tours of dozens of studios, pop-up venues and stores, as well as attend performances and events.”

For your next Ventura County West cultural tour, Rich recommends the following art venues. Check out Rich’s works here.

Photo Credit: Rich Thompson

Photo Credit: Rich Thompson

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Museum of Ventura County

Museum of Ventura County 100 East Main St, Ventura “A beautiful complex of buildings that includes the main galleries, landscaped walkways and the Agriculture Museum. This local treasure is located just across from the Mission San Buenaventura, and provides a history lesson of Ventura, the Chumash Indians and the Channel Islands. You will love my favorite installation about the history of photography. It’s simply terrific. Check the site for the current exhibitions.”

The HUD

The HUD 1793 East Main St, Ventura “Come to the HUD every Wednesday to Sunday evenings for their featured monthly group shows, featuring progressive pieces in a variety of mediums, including painting, installation, sculpture and more.”

Latitudes Fine Art Gallery by Steve Munch and Stephanie Hogue 401 East Main St, Ventura

Bell Arts Factory 432 North Ventura Ave, Ventura “Bell Arts is where locals take classes, rent studios and come for full art immersion of all sorts. It’s a great place to stop during First Fridays to visit the 30+ open studios, meet the artists and see their works in progress. Studio 30 at Bell Arts is a separate larger gallery, Vita Art Center, which hosts monthly curated shows of exceptional work.

Check their updated calendar for upcoming events.”

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“Spacious local gallery dedicated to the artwork of two photographers: Steve and Stephanie. Pop in and browse. The staff is lovely, and everything on the walls showcases the marvelous beauty of Ventura.”

Latitudes Fine Art Gallery

Don’t forget to visit the Blackboard Gallery, also known as “Sci-Art,” in Old Town Camarillo.

See page 12, or visit the Gallery website.

FEATURING MICHAEL RAMIREZ Pronounced “Y-Nee-Mee,” the cozy beachside Hueneme rounds out Ventura County West’s quad of California towns. Along with the Ventura Naval Base and the working Port of Hueneme, where major imports, like thousands of pounds of bananas, arrive per week, you’ll find a pristine milelong beach, a 1940s Art Deco lighthouse and a historic pier, complete with facilities and a seafood restaurant, that attracts pedestrians and fishermen year-round.

We were intrigued with Michael’s Yelp profile, which states that he has “99 problems...but where to eat ain’t one,” so we asked him to elaborate. “With a family of five, finding good food on a budget is my specialty.” Let’s tuck into some Hueneme bites with Michael as he notes his favorite picks here.

Local resident Michael Ramirez was born here, and still calls Hueneme his hometown. “This city has retained a level of charm throughout the years,” asserts Michael. “You can get away from the onand off-ramps of the 101 and explore what’s beyond downtown.”

Fresnel Lens at Port Hueneme Lighthouse, Photo Credit: Rachel Moore on Flickr

Another thing you’ll find here is plenty of affordable dining. “We’ve got lots of delicious food here that won’t break your budget. ‘Cheap eats’ aren’t going to be in high-rent, high-traffic locations. Maybe you’ll venture off-the-beaten path, and your meal will be that much more fun,” he suggests.

Port Hueneme Pier, Photo Credit: Allan Bromberg on Flickr

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Broasted Chicken 325 East Port Hueneme Road, Port Hueneme

Pho Saigon 826 North Ventura Road, Port Hueneme

Sushi Holic 669 West Channel Islands Blvd, Port Hueneme

“I’ll get to the point. Eat here for amazing Phillipino cuisine. The pancit, lumpia, the signature broasted chicken, coleslaw, shrimp, dinner rolls...all divine.”

“Businesses in Port Hueneme have to motivate patrons to drive out of their way and eat there, and Pho Saigon is worth any distance you have to travel.

One of my favorites is the charbroiled pork with vermicelli noodles. I just pour the whole cup of fish sauce in my bowl, add chili paste and then shovel.

Breathing is optional.”

“Cozy sushi place tucked in a strip mall, but don’t let the modest setting throw you off. This place is good!

Love the creative rolls; the fuji, baked lobster and Hanukkah rolls are my favorite.”

Pizza Man Dan’s 307 Hueneme Road, Port Hueneme

Broasted Chicken, Photo Credit: jacob_cb on Flickr

The Great Central Steak & Hoagie Company 370 East Pleasant Valley Road, Port Hueneme

“The garden special with pineapple, jalapeño and garlic on thin crust is one of my favorite pizzas of all time and the El Diablo Fuego, with green chilies and jalapeños, is a close second. Also love the veggie calzone!”

Sushi Holic, Photo Credit: Michael Ramirez

“The hot pastrami is a winner. For breakfast, the Hoagie Eggs with sausage, two eggs instead of three, (three is just too much) and mayo, is an alltime breakfast favorite.”

Pizza Man Dan’s Sushi Holic, Photo Credit: Michael Ramirez

The Great Central Steak & Hoagie Company

20

(With Page Numbers)

INDEX

A Anacapa Lighthouse 3 Arroyo Verde Park 3, 8

F First Fridays 17, 18 Four Brix Winery 5, 6

O Olivas Links 3 Oxnard Salsa Festival 14

B Back Patio Cellars 8 Beacon Coffee 9 Bell Arts Factory 18 Bella Victorian Vineyard 8 BlendZ Winery 8 Boys & Girls Club of Ventura 14 Broasted Chicken 20

H Harbor Cove Cafe 6 Hartley Botanica 12 Herzog Wine Cellars 7, 8 Hopper Boats 6 The HUD 18

P Palermo Cafe 8 Panaro Brothers Winery 8 Paradise Pantry 9 Pho Saigon 20 Pierpont Beach 14 Pizza Man Dan’s 20 Plan B Cellars 8 Plaza Park 14 Port Hueneme Lighthouse 2, 19 Poseidon Brewing Company 10

C California Beer Festival 13 California Strawberry Festival 14 Camarillo Custom Crush 8 Camarillo Farmers’ Market 12 Camarillo Premium Outlets 2, 3 Camarillo Public Library 14 Camarillo Ranch House 3 Camarillo Yoga Center 11 Cantara Cellars 8, 9 Channel Islands Harbor 6, 15 Channel Islands National Park 3, 8, 15 College Park Strawberry Meadow 14 Curry Leaf 10 E Element Coffee 12 Establos Meat Market 10

I Island Packers 15 J Jolly Oyster 6 L Labyrinth Winery 8 Latitudes Fine Art 16, 18 M Magnavino Cellars 8 Manhattan of Camarillo 11 Millesime Cellars 8 Mission Park 13 Mission San Buenaventura 3, 8, 18 Moqueca Brazilian Cuisine 15 Museum of Ventura County & Agriculture Museum 3, 1 N Navy Seabee Museum 15

R Rancho Ventavo Cellars 8 S San Buenaventura State Beach 6 San Vincente Cellars 8 Santa Monica Mountains National Park 3, 7, 9 Scratch Food Truck 10 Serra Cross Park 8 Social Tap Eatery 6 Somis Nut House 12 Spencer Makenzie’s 10 Spicetopia 7 Sterling Hills Golf 3 Strey Cellars 8

Studio Channel Island Blackboard Gallery & Studios 12, 18 Sunflowers on the Square 10 Surf Rodeo 14 Sushi Holic 20 T The Collection at River Park 3 The Great Central Steak & Hoagie Company 20 Tierra Sur 7, 10 U Underground Grourmet Food Truck 13 V Ventura Art Walk 17 Ventura Botanical Gardens 8 Ventura County City Hall & Courthouse 8 Ventura Food Tours 9 Ventura Harbor Village & Carousel 6 Ventura Naval Base 19 Vita Arts Center 18 Vom Fass 7 W The Wine Closet 11 Winter Wine Walk 13

21 | ventura county west

CAMARILLO OXNARD HUENEME VENTURA 22