When I think of Santa Maria Valley, I visualize Santa Maria-style barbeque and the excellent wine, especially pinot noir and chardonnay grapes, that thrive in the area. I never thought that Santa Maria Valley would be known for its Central Coast Coffee and tea. Visiting Dewlson Family Farm, I discovered that coffee is a novelty
In today’s world, sustainability and regenerative farming have become key and part of many restaurants’ programs. One company Chiles Hospitality is a fixture in the Anna Maria Island food scene by taking these concepts and creating a story about farm to table and table to farm. It’s a cycle of life within its own culture
From a lesser-known dog breed, Dogo Argentino, a business and dog rescue was formed. For Dave and Pamela Fay, it changed their lifestyle in more ways than one. Pamela especially has a unique bond with her Dogos that she has never experienced with other canines. The Fay’s Dave was an engineer, and his wife, Pamela,
When I think of fall, I think of the changing colors in the vineyard as the lush green grape vines turn yellow and orange. It is the perfect time for a weekend escape to Santa Maria Valley. Not only is it the ideal time to enjoy the wineries, but it is time to enjoy the
If you want a change of scenery, enjoying a weekend escape to Solvang, CA, offers a fantastic option with its Danish flair, good wine, and burgeoning dining scene. My recent visit included tasting wine at Coquelicot Estate Vineyard, dining at the Michelin Plate restaurant First & Oak, and staying at the Mirabelle Inn. This same
The terrain of the Santa Ynez Valley is diverse, with its green pastures dappled with horse ranches and vineyards. The landscape is studded with oak trees that signify one has landed in Chumash country. It is an agricultural area surrounded by the Santa Ynez Mountains on the south and the San Raphael Mountains on the
Delving into Spanish food and wine highlighted Spain’s Great Match in Los Angeles. This event focused on two seminars that showcased various types of cheese, Jamón, and wines of Spain. The first seminar, Spanish Hams, Cheeses, and the Wines that Love Them!, was led by Evan Goldstein, MS, and the other, The Many Faces of
Life is about immersing yourself in extraordinary encounters. For those of you who enjoy cruises, Princess Cruises has one of those memorable experiences. The Van Gogh and Claude Monet Immersive Experience enhanced your sense of sight as you viewed the exceptional works of both artists. Add in your other senses of taste, smell, and touch
Wine tasting comes together best when combined with a wine pairing dinner. I find West Hollywood restaurant Tesse creates food pairings that bring out the finest quality in wines. Owner Jordan Ogron enables one to travel the world in a three or four-course dining experience. West Hollywood Restaurant Tesse Tesse is a French restaurant inspired
Halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, along Highway 101, lies the Central Coast town of San Luis Obispo. A city that is increasing in popularity partly due to its agricultural roots giving way to grape growing, expanding the city’s desirability for fine dining and wine tasting. There is more to San Louis Obispo than