E S C A PE E DI T ION
#122
DE X T E R DA R DE N I N T H E SP OT L IG H T
22 C I T I E S W E LOV E F OR YOU R 2 022 A DV E N T U R E S FROM THE COAST OF CALIFORNIA TO THE ICONIC SHORES OF CAPRI
Introducing…
A Beloved Guest Star of Smash Hit Comedy Series “Ted Lasso”
A Celebrity Fitness Trainer and Her Secrets to Staying Healthy During the Holidays
The Award-Winning Chef Bringing Innovative Concepts to Mexico
LOEWS SANTA MONICA BEACH HOTEL
®
www.localemagazine.com • @localemagazine
THE TEAM ERIK HALE Publisher + Founder erik@localemagazine.com | @local_e ASHLEY SMITH COO + Co-Founder ashley@localemagazine.com | @ashleyelainexo REILLY HEINE Art Director + Co-Owner reilly@localemagazine.com | @localereilly | @reillyek EDITORIAL KAYLIN WAIZINGER Senior Editor kaylin@localemagazine.com | @kaylinwaizinger TAYLOR GORSKI Senior Editor taylor@localemagazine.com | @taylorgorski CHRIS HUGHES Copy Editor chris@hughescopywriting.com DESIGN VICENTE MARTÍ SOLAR Illustrator vicentemartisolar@gmail.com PRODUCTION LAUREN LEWELLEN Production Manager laurenl@localemagazine.com | @lauren__lewellen SALES & MARKETING MIKE TODD SMITH Vice President of Sales & Marketing mts@localemagazine.com | @miketoddsmith JASON KOSKY Sr. Market Manager jason@localemagazine.com | @locale_jason DANIELLE TROTTER Advertising Partnerships Manager danielle@localemagazine.com | @duhhhitsdanielle SAMANTHA PERRY Social Media Manager samantha@localemagazine.com | @graceperry_ FINANCE VALERIE KERR Accountant accounting@localemagazine.com
THE CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS ALLIE LEBOS allieandla.com | @allielebos AMEIHIA TURINGAN iridescentglimmer.wordpress.com | @ameihia BRITTANY LAWRENCE theblaw.com | @the.b.law CARMEN VARNER itscarmen.com | @carmenvarner CHRISTIAN WAIZINGER @cwaizz EMILY ROETHLE thepostgradfiles.com | @espressoandendorphins GENNAH NICOLE themermaidmethod.com | @gennahnicole JORDAN NISHKIAN wordsbyjordan.com | @wordsbyjordan KANDACE CORNELL kandacecornellcopy.com | @lachicamericaine KERI BRIDGWATER keribridgwater.com | @keri.bridgwater MARSELA WARSHAW MICHELLE STANSBURY michellewriter.com | @discoverwithmichelle RAPHAEL MADRID therendernetwork.com/author/rmadrid foodbeast.com/author/raphael-madrid | @rawrphael PHOTOGRAPHERS ARI MOSHAYEDI arimophoto.com | @arimophoto CÉLINE HAEBERLY celinehaeberly.myportfolio.com | @celinehaeberly MARY CAROL FITZGERALD marycarolfitzgerald.com | @mcfitztography NATHAN COX nathancoxstudios.com | @nathancoxstudios RACHEL HOOPS rachelashphoto.com | @rachelashphoto TAE KWON taekwonphoto.com | @taekwonphoto TRAVIS MCCOY travismccoy.com | @travis_mccoy_photography FA S H I O N S T Y L I S T S SARAH NEARIS sarahnearis.com | @sarahnearisstyle *For full information on our team & contributors go to www.localemagazine.com/about
LOCALE MAGAZINE PO Box 2971, Newport Beach, CA 92659 • 949.436.8910
St. Helena
86
Escape Guide
Valley Escapes These Four California Regions Are Ideal for a Wine Weekend Away
editor's note Well, I think we can all agree that this year flew by—we blinked, and suddenly it’s the holiday season. It’s personally my favorite time of year; there’s a sense of magic in the air, even in sunny Southern California. There’s so much to look forward to these next few months. Festive activities such as the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, cozy moments spent at home with friends and family, and a new year to ring in (hello, 2022—we’ve all been waiting for you!) are all at the top of the list. In this year’s winter magazine, we present to you 22 Cities We Love— full of inspiration and itineraries for all of your 2022 travels (pg. 61). From planning international trips to exploring coastal California destinations, get ready to text your pals and pack your bags. We want nothing more than to explore the world this year. Go on that road trip or buy the plane ticket—you won’t regret it.
Snuggle up next to the fireplace with a peppermint mocha in hand; we have lots to share about our Southern California community in this magazine. Dexter Darden is our rising cover star who is making his mark in Hollywood. He opens up about how his acting career got started and gives us the inside scoop on his personal life and navigating the film industry. While you’re flipping through this issue, you’ll also find the most incredible new San Diego restaurants (pg. 125), where to dine alfresco in Palm Springs this season (pg. 143) and holiday gifts for everyone on your list (pg. 165). We hope these upcoming months bring nothing but joy, good health and great memories. As always, thank you for being a supporter of our publication! We deeply appreciate each and every one of our readers. Happy Holidays!
TAYLOR GORSKI Senior Editor taylor@localemagazine.com | @taylorgorski
®
making the issue December 2021 /// Escape Issue COVER
Photographed By: Travis McCoy, www.travismccoy.com | @travis_mccoy_photography Model: Dexter Darden, @dexterdarden Location: Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, 1700 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401 310.458.6700 | www.loewshotels.com/santa-monica Written By: Keri Bridgwater, keribridgwater.com | @keri.bridgwater Styled By: Sarah Nearis, www.sarahnearis.com | @sarahnearisstyle Sweater Provided By: Ralph Lauren, www.ralphlauren.com Coat Provided By: Paul Smith, www.paulsmith.com Boots Provided By: Kenneth Cole, www.kennethcole.com
Santa Monica
2021 is coming to a close, and if you know anything about us, you know we like to end things with a bang. Meet our December escape issue! This magazine is packed with an amazing assortment of people, places and activities that’ll leave you inspired as you step into a new year. From our favorite cities in California and beyond to insanely cool dining experiences in our own backyard, this issue was designed to tickle your travel bug, get you out of your comfort zone and highlight all the adventures that await you in 2022. Whether it’s exploring California’s central coast, experiencing San Diego’s burgeoning culinary scene or finally making moves on that dream home renovation, we hope this issue inspires you to cross things off your bucket list with gusto! For those that don’t know where to start, we recommend page one! Gracing the front cover of our December issue is the breakout star from South Jersey, Dexter Darden. As a rising American star in the film industry, Darden is a walking example of someone who continues to use his gifts, overcome obstacles and bet on himself. We hope you find his story inspiring as you gear up for a new year with new challenges, but more importantly, new opportunities. Written By: Kaylin Waizinger
All rights reserved © 2021, the entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any forms or by any means without express written prior permission of the copyright owner.
the team
LO CA L E M AG A Z I N E 949.436.8910 info@localemagazine.com
Travis McCoy
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LOCALE MAGAZINE
Keri Bridgwater
Sarah Nearis
Locale Magazine is printed by SOUTHWEST OFFSET PRINTING 13650 Gramercy Pl Gardena, CA 90249 310.323.0112 | southwestoffset.com
table of contents December 2021 /// Escape Edition
Bronte, Australia
61 Guide
22 Cities We Love From the Coast of California to the Iconic Shores of Capri
80
Bondi Beach, Australia How to Have a G’Day in Aussie BRONTE BATHS Bronte, Australia
PHOTO BY: THOMAS YOHEI
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table of contents December 2021 /// Escape Edition
86
St. Helena, CA
Guide
Valley Escapes These Four California Regions Are Ideal for a Wine Weekend Away
ALILA NAPA VALLEY 1915 Main St St Helena, CA 94574 707.963.7000 www.alilahotels.com
PHOTO PROVIDED BY: ALILA NAPA VALLEY
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table of contents December 2021 /// Escape Edition
88 Guide
Oceanside
Oceanside This Spirited City Is Bustling With Co-Op Spaces and Creativity
MISSION PACIFIC HOTEL 201 N Myers St Oceanside, CA 92054 855.365.5078 www.missionpacifichotel.com
PHOTO PROVIDED BY: MISSION PACIFIC HOTEL
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table of contents December 2021 /// Escape Edition
San Diego
Pg. 188 Venice
shoppe 156 Spotlight
ON THE RISE
Oceanside’s The Rising Co. Is a Hub for Community, Creativity and Connection
Pg. 125
158
Feature
38
Localendar
44
Cover Story
ALL EYES ON HIM
Meet the Breakout Star From South Jersey Who’s Shaking Things up in Hollywood
99
foodie 120 Trending
SEASON’S DRINKINGS
It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like...Cocktails!
122
Behind the Brand
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade Guide
LET’S GET THIS BREAD
living like a local
125
foodie 116 Matthew Kenney 118 Nora Tatum shoppe 152 Laura Lee 154 Michelle Verdult alive 184 Jason Craig 186 Michael Melikian
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This San Francisco Hot Spot Has Officially Landed in LA
Feature
FEAST YOUR EYES
San Diego’s Burgeoning Culinary Scene Is a Force to Be Reckoned With
138
Trending
SIPPIN’ PRETTY
Cocktails From the Kitchen at The Mayor’s Table Is Elevating the Cocktail Experience in Newport Beach
140
Behind the Brand
SABORES DE BAJA
Chef Javier Plascencia Offers an Innovative Approach to Dining in Mexico
143
Feature
SEASON’S EATINGS
NEST EGG
With Innovation at the Forefront, This European Brand Designs Premium Outdoor Products
162
Spotlight
STAY COZY, MY FRIENDS
Wine and Dine Your Way Through Winter on Palm Canyon Drive
Fill Your Space With Parachute’s Home Essentials to Stay Cozy All Season Long
148
165
Versus
THIS FOR THAT
5 Better-for-You Snack Swaps That Will Help You Stick to Your New Year’s Resolutions
Gift Guide
A HOLLY, JOLLY HOLIDAY
Simplify Your Holiday Shopping With These 26 SoCal-Inspired Gift Ideas
180
Itinerary
ALL-DAY ADVENTURE From Draft Lattes to Locally Made Goods, La Jolla’s Westfield UTC Has It All
alive 188 5 Pro Tips
IT’S NOT GOING TO LIFT ITSELF
Live Your Most Fit Life With the Help of World-Class Fitness Coach Melissa Alcantara and Tru Grit
190 Profile
FOR EARTH’S SAKE Environmentalist and TikTok Star Caulin Donaldson Takes “Influencer” to a Whole New Level
194
5 Pro Tips
BRINGING IT HOME 5 Affordable Ways to Boost the Value of Your Home Before You Sell
196
Spotlight
BIG GOALS
Meet Canadian Actor Moe Jeudy-Lamour of Hit Comedy Series “Ted Lasso”
Pg. 196
Los Angeles
198
Feature
MODERN MEANS CONVENIENT
The Smart Home You’ve Dreamed About Is Here
202
Get the Deets
A DECEMBER TO REMEMBER
Long Beach’s 2ND & PCH Is Eager to Make Your Season Merry and Bright
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LOCALEndar Los Angeles
DEC. 4
JAN. 2
TO
FROM HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES TO 2022 HAPPENINGS, LET’S MAKE THESE NEXT FEW MONTHS THE BEST YET Written By: Kaylin Waizinger and Taylor Gorski
Laguna Niguel
JAN.
What: Snow N Glow Holiday Festival
1
Where: Del Mar Fairgrounds Why: Gather your friends and family and enjoy holiday lights displays, s’mores, toasty drinks and activities like snow tubing!
What: The 133rd Rose Parade
How: www.snownglow.com
Where: Pasadena
DEC. 31
DEC.
DEC.
What: “The Nutcracker” at Los Angeles Ballet
What: New Year’s Eve at The RitzCarlton, Laguna Niguel
5
Where: RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
What: Corona del Mar Christmas Walk
Why: Enjoy a champagne toast, fourcourse dinner and ocean views as you welcome in the long-awaited new year!
Where: Corona del Mar Why: This community event offers live entertainment, beer and wine gardens and children’s activities for a day of family fun!
How: www.tournamentofroses.com
Los Angeles
How: www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ california/laguna-niguel
How: www.cdmchamber.com
Coronado
Huntington Beach
Where: Los Angeles Ballet Why: Put on your cutest coat and catch “The Nutcracker” at Los Angeles Ballet with your bestie for a festive evening. How: www.losangelesballet.org
NOW
TO
NOW
DEC. 24
TO
What: Parents Night Out at Westfield UTC
What: Skating by the Sea at Hotel del Coronado
Where: Westfield UTC, La Jolla Why: Enjoy a parents-only evening while the kids have their own fun, enjoying a pizza party, a movie, playtime and more at Westfield UTC’s G3Kids. How: www.westfield.com
NOW
TO
DEC. 31
What: Pigeon’s Roller Rink Where: 2ND & PCH, Long Beach Why: Skate the day away by the bay at this pop-up roller rink venue in Long Beach. How: www.2ndandpch.com
JAN. 2
TO
JAN. 2
What: Pasea Hotel & Spa Oceanfront Ice Rink Where: Pasea Hotel & Spa, Huntington Beach Why: Spend the holidays the SoCal way at this incredible oceanfront ice rink!
TO
What: LA Zoo Lights Where: Los Angeles Zoo
Why: Spend a winter day ice skating by the ocean at this festive outdoor ice rink on Coronado Island. Hotel del Coronado’s Skating by the Sea features stunning views of the Pacific and benefits Make-A-Wish® San Diego. How: www.hoteldel.com
How: www.lazoo.org
How: www.meritagecollection.com/paseahotel
F O R M O R E E V E N TS , C H E C K O U T O U R W E B S I T E AT w w w. l o cal e mag az i n e . co m/l oca l enda r
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JAN. 9
Why: Step into the world’s largest illuminated popup storybook and walk through the different light exhibits at the one and only LA Zoo. This unforgettable nighttime experience features giant glittering snowflakes, a magical disco ball forest and a twinkling tunnel filled with swirls of color.
Where: Hotel del Coronado
NOW
NOW
Photos - Los Angeles Ballet | Pasea Hotel & Spa | The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel | Hotel del Coronado | Los Angeles Zoo: Jamie Pham
4-26
Why: Celebrate the new year by attending or tuning into The 133rd Rose Parade—a time-honored Los Angeles tradition!
Newport Beach
Written By: Kaylin Waizinger and Taylor Gorski
JAN.
FEB.
FEB.
8
3
13
What: San Diego Brew Festival
What: Lakers vs. Clippers
What: Super Bowl
Where: Liberty Station, San Diego
Where: STAPLES Center, Los Angeles
Where: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles
Why: The 11th annual San Diego Brew Festival features 200 different beers and the best San Diego food trucks.
Why: Watch these Los Angeles rivals battle it out on the basketball court.
Why: Super Bowl LVI is happening right here in sunny Southern California!
How: www.nba.com
How: www.sofistadium.com
How: www.sandiegobeerfest.com
DEC.
Palm Springs
15-19 What: Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade Where: Newport Beach Why: The 113th annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade will feature the most festive and sparkling boats on the bay! Cozy up and watch the beautifully decorated yachts, boats, kayaks and canoes cruise the harbor this December.
JAN.19-23
How: www. christmasboatparade.com
What: The American Express PGA Golf Tournament Where: La Quinta Country Club
JAN.
6-17 What: Palm Springs International Film Festival Where: Palm Springs
Why: This 72-hole tournament in La Quinta features a field of the world’s best pro golfers. How: www.theamexgolf.com
JAN.
31
FEB.
FEB. 6
17-27
Where: Huntington Beach
What: Modernism Week 2022
What: Surf City Marathon Why: Whether you’re running the race or watching from the sidelines, join the HB community for a day of fun.
Where: Greater Palm Springs
How: www.runsurfcity.com
Why: This annual 11-day festival features more than 350 events, including tours of iconic homes, architectural walking, biking and double-decker bus tours, nightly parties and the Palm Springs Modernism Show & Sale. Don’t miss out on this epic desert event!
FEB. 9
TO
MAR. 4
(SELECT DATES) What: “Wicked” at Segerstrom Center for the Arts Where: Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa
Why: Coachella Valley’s largest cinematic event features a lineup of new and celebrated international features and documentaries—the perfect event for any film buff!
Why: Turn on your TV and see which of your favorite artists will win big this year.
Why: There’s trouble in Emerald City! Don’t miss Broadway’s biggest blockbuster at Segerstrom Center for the Arts.
How: www.psfilmfest.org
How: www.grammy.com
How: www.scfta.org
What: 64th Annual Grammy Awards Where: STAPLES Center, Los Angeles
F O R M O R E E V E N TS , C H E C K O U T O U R W E B S I T E AT w w w. l o cal e mag az i n e . co m/l oca l enda r
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How: www. modernismweek.com
Photos -Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade | The American Express PGA Golf Tournament: City of La Quinta | Surf City Marathon & Half Marathon: Ryan Bethke / Motiv Sports | Modernism Week
LOCALEndar
FROM HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES TO 2022 HAPPENINGS, LET’S MAKE THESE NEXT FEW MONTHS THE BEST YET
All Eyes on Him M E E T T H E B R E A KO U T S TA R F R O M S O U T H J E R S E Y W H O ’ S S H A K I N G T H I N G S U P I N H O L LY W O O D W R I T T E N B Y: K E R I B R I D G WAT E R /// P H O T O G R A P H E D B Y: T R AV I S M C C O Y /// S T Y L E D B Y: S A R A H N E A R I S 44 LOCALE MAGAZINE
DEXTER DARDEN @dexterdarden Photoshoot Location: LOEWS SANTA MONICA BEACH HOTEL 1700 Ocean Ave Santa Monica, CA 90401 310.458.6700 www.loewshotels.com/santa-monica SUIT PROVIDED BY: DARKOH www.darkoh.net TURTLENECK PROVIDED BY: Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com BOOTS PROVIDED BY: Kenneth Cole www.kennethcole.com
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Born to Act
• “My favorite movie is “Rush Hour.” I used to run around and recreate [Chris Rock and Jackie Chan’s] scenes on a little VHS camera and get my cousins to play some of the other characters. I think my mom still has the tapes.”
Serving the Community
• A celebrity ambassador for the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Darden regularly uses his platform to champion charitable organizations, including the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and The Boys and Girls Club.
SWEATER PROVIDED BY: Ralph Lauren www.ralphlauren.com COAT PROVIDED BY: Paul Smith www.paulsmith.com BOOTS PROVIDED BY: Kenneth Cole www.kennethcole.com
“I consider myself a funny guy, but there is something about drama, which allows you to bring this whole other level to the forefront of a performance, and I enjoy that.” —Dexter Darden
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This rising star considers screen legend Paul Newman a mentor, has worked alongside numerous Academy Award winners and other A-listers and starred in 2020’s wildly successful “Saved by the Bell” reboot. Touted as one of Tinseltown’s most talented up-and-coming young actors, Dexter Darden discusses his humble beginnings and big breaks. “My mom always says that my first solo show was when I was three years old singing in church,” explains Darden over the phone from Los Angeles. “The choir is where I got my foundation for music, but I didn’t think it could be anything other than a hobby or something that I did to have fun. I guess the Lord had other plans.” Born and raised in Camden, New Jersey, Darden also excelled at sports (he still loves to play basketball), but it was attending Paul Newman’s Hole in the Wall Gang Camp in Connecticut in 2000 that inadvertently charted his future career course. Stints at the Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, offBroadway shows and TV appearances swiftly followed. However, it was landing the part of Walter Hill—a teen with Asperger’s syndrome in the 2012 pop-gospel comedy “Joyful Noise” alongside Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah—that cemented his big break. “When [the movie] came out and I got all this attention, I said, you know what, I’m just going to leave New Jersey. So, I bought a first-class, one-way ticket, got to Los Angeles and realized I had no money,” he says with a self-effacing laugh. “Growing up in South Jersey, wanting an opportunity to spread my wings, going to a place like California—I mean it was a dream come true and a culture shock for sure. I emceed, hosted and sang at weddings—yes, I was a wedding singer! I just did what I had to do to survive.” His talent and dedication saw Darden work steadily after moving out west, racking up credits as Frypan in “The Maze Runner’’ trilogy before playing Forest Whitaker’s son in the critically acclaimed “Burden,” which won the Audience Award at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival. “It’s not often that you get to work with somebody
who’s considered a master at what they do, and Forest is definitely a master,” he says of starring alongside the Academy Award winner. “Everything he does—how he moves, how he conducts himself—taught me something. And he was someone I wanted to sit back and learn from.” Flexing his range further the following year, Darden jumped straight into Spike Lee’s “Son of the South” and his second significant dramatic role as legendary American statesman John Lewis. “Transitioning from ‘Burden’ to ‘South’, it was great being able to come from that experience and say, ‘Okay, how do I feel about this influential figure, this man who gave immeasurably to the civil rights movement? What is it I want to bring to the character?’” Looking up to versatile and in-demand actors like Will Smith and Jamie Foxx who can “dive into any role and provide performances that transcend demographics,” whether it’s comedy or drama, Darden follows suit and likes to keep his options open when it comes to reading scripts. “I consider myself a funny guy, but there is something about drama, which allows you to bring this whole other level to the forefront of a performance, and I enjoy that.” As a BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) actor, he’s passionate about changing the narrative on racial stereotypes and pioneering diversity through his work—something he got to do on Peacock’s “Saved by the Bell” reboot last year. “I try to not limit myself in terms of the projects I’m doing, the roles I’m accepting, or that come through,” he says. “I don’t want to play the gangster. I don’t want to play the guy who might have killed somebody because I don’t want to have that be the only representation of a Black man on television. We’re so much more.”
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“Growing up in South Jersey, wanting an opportunity to spread my wings, going to a place like California—I mean it was a dream come true and a culture shock for sure.” —Dexter Darden
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Catch Him in the Kitchen
SUIT PROVIDED BY: DARKOH www.darkoh.net SWEATER PROVIDED BY: Theory www.theory.com SHOES PROVIDED BY: Kenneth Cole www.kennethcole.com SUNGLASSES PROVIDED BY: Privé Revaux Eyewear www.priverevaux.com
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• After discovering a passion for cooking during lockdown, Darden’s standout dish is his “good old-fashioned Southern-style ribs,” which he marinates for 48 hours before putting them in his prized smoker.
Improving Every Day
• Must read? “Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds” by David Goggins— an inspiring book about the ups and downs, trials and tribulations of life and how to flip negatives into positives as we navigate our way through.”
Party Trick?
• A talented impersonator, Darden can do a solid Bernie Mac, James Brown and Stevie Wonder, among several others.
❝
“I don’t want to play the gangster. I don’t want to play the guy who might have killed somebody because I don’t want to have that be the only representation of a Black man on television. We’re so much more.” —Dexter Darden
W
While writer Tracey Wigfield’s Bayside High still played home to a familiar privileged clique in her witty reimagining of the iconic ’90s sitcom, a new generation of disadvantaged students— including Darden’s character Devante—helped tackle relatable issues of race, education inequality and classism with a pop-culture spin. As a kid who grew up watching the original series on Saturday mornings and reruns before school, he says the satirical yet sincere new self-aware direction felt timely. While getting the chance to audition for a favorite childhood TV show was surreal, once Darden got a feel for Wakefield’s spin on the hotbutton topics she intended to cover, he knew the role would be a meaningful opportunity. “We need to be having these kinds of conversations with the younger generation—Gen Z and the 13- to 16-year-old kids on social media who are going to be the voice of the future. We need to promote these conversations instead of skipping over them so that they’re comfortable having them with their friends.” As a fan of the original, Darden also counts working alongside Mario Lopez as a major career highlight. “You know, growing up and being someone who was a dancer myself, you always heard about Mario. How he could just kind of do it all—hosting, acting, dancing or whatever—so working with him was a total dream come true.” Another dream role for Darden? Playing legendary Motown artist Stevie Wonder, which is a project he is actively pursuing. “He’s one of the greatest, and I really want to tell his story,” he enthuses. “I would love to do a biopic about his life so that audiences could learn more about this incredible man who, honestly, people just don’t know that much about.”
With movie release dates delayed, premieres and award shows canceled, Darden admits that despite COVID-19 upending the global film industry, 2020 still marked one of the best years of his career to date. “I was blessed and had some really cool projects come in that I was incredibly grateful for,” he says. With a 10-episode second season of “Saved by the Bell” greenlit by NBCUniversal earlier this year, he says the upcoming season is going to put a lot of smiles on people’s faces. “It’s bigger, better and the writing is even more incredible. We’re opening more conversations about ethnicity, sexuality and gender in such a creative way. I’m proud to be part of a show that pushes the envelope and makes itself available for the whole family to enjoy.” On a personal note, for Darden, much of 2021 was also dedicated to reconnecting with loved ones: from a new romantic relationship and spending more time with his mom in Philly to being best man at BFF Jordan Fisher’s wedding. “Having a COVID wedding in Disney World was crazy, but it was still a dream come true,” he notes. With filming projects pushed back due to the ongoing pandemic and additional logistics required when it comes to shooting on set, he shares one (of many) projects that readers can look forward to seeing him in next year is the sequel to “The Binge”—a follow-up to Hulu’s 2020 Jeremy Garelick-directed dystopian comedy with Vince Vaughn and Skyler Gisondo. From making his mark in movies to dominating streaming platforms, Darden’s already sparkling career credentials have certainly cemented his place in the spotlight as one of the industry’s brightest and most bankable young stars to watch.
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escape December 2021 /// cities. beaches. small towns.
Capri, Italy
61 Guide
PHOTO BY: Ian Badenhorst
22 Cities We Love From the Coast of California to the Iconic Shores of Capri
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escape /// guide
Tucson, AZ
22 Cities We Love Phuket, Thailand
New York, NY
Jackson Hole, WY
From the Coast of California to the Iconic Shores of Capri
Bondi Beach, Australia Capri, Italy
With a new year comes new adventures, and there’s nothing more exciting than stuffing a suitcase. Whether you’re heading up the coast for a Golden State escape or you’re catching a flight overseas, it’s time to dream big and plan your next epic getaway. This guide highlights 22 of our favorite cities near and far—from the rolling vineyards of Napa to the pristine beaches of Malibu. May these pages be your 2022 guide to adventure, relaxation and all kinds of exploration. Bon Voyage! LOCALE MAGAZINE 61
escape /// guide
NOBU RYOKAN MALIBU
KEEPING IT COASTAL
Malibu
CURE Wellness Center Malibu Country Mart
Broad Street Oyster Co.
Nobu Ryokan Malibu
*Map not to scale
WRITTEN BY: KANDACE CORNELL 62 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Charming Meets Lush in This Cherished Coastal Town
Stay:
Dine:
Do:
Don’t Miss
• Come for the sushi, stay for the weekend. You’ve undoubtedly heard of Nobu, the iconic sushi spot adored by celebs both near and far, but did you know that you can turn an epic dinner into a weekend getaway? Check into one of only 16 exclusive guest rooms at the neighboring Nobu Ryokan Malibu and enjoy the luxuries of this panoramic ocean oasis, such as sleek teak soaker tubs, linen yukata robes and bamboo towels.
• Nothing completes an idyllic day of cruising down the California coast in a convertible quite like a stop for some top-notch seafood under the sun. At Broad Street Oyster Co., choose among local favorites like Baja tacos and fish and chips, share a selection of fried clam strips and jumbo shrimp or hit up the raw bar for everything from mouthwatering lobster rolls and oysters Rockefeller to live sea urchin and caviar.
• Boasting a range of luxurious spa treatments, from deep-tissue massages and PRP facials to vitamin drip IV therapy and infrared saunas, CURE Wellness is a sanctuary nestled in the hills above Pacific Coast Hwy. Take in a sunset from the sprawling terrace and become a medspa member, allowing you to enjoy extra perks and privileges like a personal medical team to keep you on track with your wellness goals.
• When in Malibu, do as the stars do and indulge in some quality retail therapy (or even just some quality window shopping) at outdoor lifestyle center Malibu Country Mart. Known for its relaxed ranch-style vibe, this upscale, open-air retail destination counts beloved boutiques like Brandy Melville and Gorjana along with the likes of LA mainstays Vince, M. Frederic and Oliver Peoples in its exclusive directory.
NOBU RYOKAN MALIBU 22752 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, CA 90265 malibu.nobuhotels.com
BROAD STREET OYSTER CO. 23359 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, CA 90265 424.644.0131 www.broadstreetmalibu.com
CURE WELLNESS CENTER 22741 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste 200-220 Malibu, CA 90265 310.456.1458 www.curedaily.com
MALIBU COUNTRY MART 3835 Cross Creek Rd Malibu, CA 90265 310.826.5636 www.malibucountrymart.com
Photo - Nobu Ryokan Malibu | Broad Street Oyster Co.: Jenna Weinstein w/ Broad Street Oyster Co. | CURE Wellness Center | Malibu Country Mart
For travelers and LA locals alike, Malibu consistently tops the list when it comes to coveted Southern California destinations. With its unparalleled ocean views, superb seafood and stellar shopping, this 21-mile slice of paradise is the place that both stars and surfers love to call home. Wind your way along the coastline and enjoy an endless strip of sandy beaches to the west and mountain views of majestic homes speckling the cliffside to the east. We’ve put together the perfect weekend itinerary that’s sure to get you in the Malibu mood, whether you’re a first-timer in town or a longtime local.
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NO MATTER WHERE YOU STAND, THE VIEWS IN AVALON CAN’T BE BEAT.
BLUEWATER GRILL
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California Culture
Your Next Island Escape Is Just 22 Miles Away
WRITTEN BY: KAYLIN WAIZINGER AND ALLIE LEBOS
A new year brings new adventures! Whether you’ve experienced the glory of Catalina before or you’ve never stepped foot on the island, there’s no better time to set sail! The city of Avalon offers the perfect winter escape with its crystal-clear waters, quaint downtown and abundance of activities. Take a ride around town via golf cart or experience some of the freshest seafood in California–– no matter what you plan to do, this small but mighty city will not disappoint! 64 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Fresh Seafood
• Snag a seat at Bluewater Grill—Avalon’s premier seafood restaurant! This harborside hotspot features a central bar, indoor and outdoor seating and an irresistibly buzzy ambiance that’ll surely set your watch to island time. Take in views of the boats and the famed casino as you indulge in craft cocktails and delectable dishes like lobster rolls, shrimp ceviche, cioppino and more. Pair your seafood selection with a Captain’s Mai Tai made with Goslings Black Seal and Gold Rum, Cruzan Coconut Rum, pineapple juice, lime, triple sec, almond and simple syrup. BLUEWATER GRILL www.bluewatergrill.com
CATALINA MUSEUM FOR ART + HISTORY www.catalinamuseum.org
Opportunity for Adventure
• From snorkeling and scuba diving to glass-bottom boat tours, Avalon boasts an abundance of outdoor activities for you to enjoy. Take a walk on the wild side and explore the 37.2-mile Trans Catalina Trail or gear up for two hours of adrenalinefueled fun with a Zip Line Eco Tour. If you’re looking to spend some time on the water, book a glass-bottom boat voyage, snorkeling expedition or fishing tour. The opportunity for adventure is endless! CATALINA ISLAND COMPANY www.visitcatalinaisland.com
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Views on Views
• No matter where you stand, the views in Avalon can’t be beat. Whether you’re aboard a boat looking back at the city or looking out at the harbor from the comfort of a restaurant, you’re in for some serious eye candy (and photo ops). One of the most popular spots for an Insta-worthy view is the walk (or golf-cart ride) up to Mount Ada. This scenic lookout point overlooks the entire city, offering views of the sparkling harbor below. CATALINA ISLAND COMPANY www.visitcatalinaisland.com
DESCANSO BEACH CLUB
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Easy Transportation
• Hop on the Catalina Express for a quick and easy 22mile boat ride to the city of Avalon. 6
An Abundance of Wildlife
• Avalon’s blue waters are home to an assortment of sealife, but keep your eyes peeled for bison too. A small herd of them were left on the island by a movie crew in the 1920s! 7
Charming Hotels
• Avalon is home to an assortment of charming accommodations, including the Pavilion Hotel, Hotel Atwater, the Bellanca Hotel and more. 8
A Pristine Shoreline
• From sandy beaches to rugged bluffs, Avalon’s breathtaking coastline is sure to sweep you off your feet. 9
Beach Club Vibes
• Situated just past the historic Catalina Casino sits Descanso Beach Club—a posh day club with a restaurant, bar and live music. 10
Signature Cocktails
• Don’t leave without sipping on a “Buffalo Milk” cocktail—the official drink of Catalina Island. This boozy concoction is made with creme de cocoa, Kahlua, creme de banana, vodka and half-and-half.
Photos - Catalina Island Company | Bluewater Grill | Catalina Museum | Catalina Island Golf Cart Rentals | Hiking: Credit Amanda Bloomquist
Avalon
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• Recently rebranded to showcase more of the history and culture of Catalina, the Catalina Museum for Art and History has told the story of this magical island for almost 68 years. The museum acts as a sort of time capsule, taking you back to enjoy the island almost exactly as it was 100 years ago. During your stay, don’t miss the Titanic Exhibit, which features neverbefore-seen artifacts and archives that tell the story of what really happened on that infamous evening in the Atlantic.
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PROMTHEP CAPE
Phuket, Thailand How to Spend an Adventurous 48 Hours in Phuket, Thailand WRITTEN BY: KERI BRIDGWATER
TRISARA 66 LOCALE MAGAZINE
PHUKET ELEPHANT SANCTUARY
Famed for its pristine palm-fringed white beaches and turquoise-hued seas, the pretty island of Phuket in Southern Thailand has entranced adventurers and artists since the late 1960s. Closed for more than a year to international travel, “The Pearl of the Andaman” is open and welcoming visitors back to explore and enjoy its many treasures—think glittering Buddhist temples, bustling morning markets and dreamy resorts and spas, plus a creative food and drink scene— all without the crowds.
Photos - Suay Restaurant | Chalong Bay Rum Distillery | Phuket Elephant Sanctuary | Phuket Big Buddha, Phuket Old Town & Promthep Cape: Tourism Authority Thailand | Trisara Resort
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SUAY RESTAURANT
11 a.m.
All Aboard
2:30 p.m.
Rum-Making 101
• Learn about the rummaking process with a private tour at Chalong Bay Rum Distillery before sitting down to a fun cocktail-making class at this Insta-worthy spot. Follow it with appetizers at Suay restaurant next door. www.chalongbayrum.com www.suayrestaurant.com
5:30 p.m.
• Live your best “Below Deck” life on a day yacht cruise to hidden-gem spots like Banana Beach on Koh Hey island. The cruise also includes a sail-around Phuket’s famed sunset spot and southernmost point, Promthep Cape. www.asia-marine.net bananabeachkohhey.com
5:30 p.m.
Cocktail Hour
• Stop by Phuket Town’s hippest cocktail spot, Dibuk House, where mixology gets molecular with
creations like the Subterranean (inspired by the lifespan of a stag beetle), for a quick drink before the trip back up north. @dibukhouse
6:30 p.m.
An Enchanting Evening
• Get spirited across a hidden lagoon on a hand-pulled raft to Black Ginger, the showstopping signature restaurant inside The Slate hotel, where the sensational Phuketianstyle dishes by Chef Piek are cooked to perfection. www.theslatephuket.com
Serenity Now
• Next, stop by The Great Buddha of Phuket (whose name means “Happiness on top of Nakerd Mountain”) for Insta-gold photo ops and some of the best views on the island across Kata Beach and Chalong Bay.
THE GREAT BUDDHA OF PHUKET
mingmongkolphuket.com
6:30 p.m.
Dinner Cabaret
rainforested grounds of the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary.
phuketelephantsanctuary.org
Rise and Shine at Trisara
• A hillside retreat with jaw-dropping views, Trisara lives up to its Sanskrit name, which means “Third Garden in Heaven.” Luxury also meets sustainability, thanks to the Michelin dining concept PRU and sister restaurant Hideaway by Jampa. www.trisara.com
9:30 a.m.
Hang Out With Elephants
• Prepare for a wild ride at the eclectic Underwood Art Factory, whose bi-monthly Southeast Asian and western culture-inspired dinner cabaret features everything from a dominatrix dance routine to a musical riff on the movie “Titanic.”
CHALONG BAY RUM DISTILLERY
@underwoodartfactoryphuket
Noon
Explore Old Town
• Thanks to local boutiques, coffee shops and a darling ice cream parlor, Phuket Old Town is well worth exploring. The Sunday Walking Market and SinoPortuguese architecture along the Soi Romanee side street are both major highlights. www.tourismthailand.org PHUKET OLD TOWN
• Learn all about Thailand’s treasured national animal and meet a herd of retired and rescued female elephants who now get to roam, forage and bathe in the lush LOCALE MAGAZINE 67
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• Whether you’re just getting into town or hitting the road home, caffeinate with a strong coffee from Low Pigeon, the city’s local roastery.
Elevated Picnic Experience
• Celebrate a special occasion or simply shake up date night on your visit; Santa Barbara Picnic Company creates bespoke, customizable picnics in dreamy spots around town. Snap stunning photos of the set up, and trust us, you’ll remember this experience for years to come! SANTA BARBARA PICNIC COMPANY www.santabarbarapicnicco.com
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Modern Beach House
Pizza, Please
• Don’t come to Santa Barbara without staying at the renowned Rosewood Miramar Beach. Stretching along the exclusive coast of Montecito, the luxurious rooms overlook either the ocean or delightful gardens. Hop in a colorful Jolly to explore the property! Whether it’s a romantic couples getaway or family vacation, this is the spot to stay.
• Pizza is always a good idea, and at Bettina, the Neapolitan-style pizza made with seasonal California ingredients is a match made in heaven. Cozy up inside, where you can enjoy the full bar surrounded by a chic white-and-green interior. BETTINA PIZZA www.bettinapizzeria.com
ROSEWOOD MIRAMAR BEACH www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/miramar-beachmontecito
Santa Barbara 4
Check This Out
• For something a little different, head to the largest underground crystal salt cave in North America at Salt Cave Santa Barbara for a wellness experience.
How to Spend a Dreamy Weekend in This Central Coast City
Head to the Funk Zone
• Santa Barbara has a great selection of breweries to try; Topa Topa Brewing is one worth hopping over to. “Located in the heart of the glorious Funk Zone, our Santa Barbara taproom is a shared, communal space with something for everyone,” says co-founder Jack Dyer.
WRITTEN BY: TAYLOR GORSKI
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Sunset Sailing
TOPA TOPA BREWING www.topatopa.beer
• Top off your trip in Santa Barbara with a sailing excursion! Catch a breathtaking sunset while seeing how many dolphins, whales and sea lions you can spot. Sunset cruises are offered year-round for only $65 per adult. SANTA BARBARA SAILING CENTER sbsail.com
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Raise a Glass
Find the Perfect Gift
• MATE Gallery is an eclectic shop full of unique home and wardrobe items. Located next door to Bettina, stop in before or after your meal! 68 LOCALE MAGAZINE
• Before your dinner plans, stop by Blackbird at Hotel Californian for upscale cocktails by the legendary mixologist Devon Espinosa and seasonal bites in the moody, black-and-white atmosphere. Cheers to a great night ahead! BLACKBIRD AT HOTEL CALIFORNIAN www.hotelcalifornian.com
Photos - Rosewood Miramar Beach | Santa Barbara Picnic Co.:Jodee Debes Photography | Bettina Pizza: @Datsufilms | Topa Topa Brewing: Derek Street | Blackbird at Hotel Californian: Hotel Californian | Santa Barbara Sailing Center: Blake Bronstad/Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara
Coffee Is Necessary
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ESPERANZA COCINA DE LA PLAYA
KEEPING IT COASTAL
Manhattan Beach
Marvin Braude Bike Trail
Shade Little Sister at Hotel The Point Manhattan Beach
Esperanza Cocina de la Playa
*Map not to scale
WRITTEN BY: AMEIHIA TURINGAN 70 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Keep Cool on the Coast in This Laid-Back Beach Community
Stay:
Dine:
Do:
Don’t Miss
• You’re sure to keep your cool at Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach, which boasts a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for a beachside getaway. Step into the lobby and ride the relaxation wave all the way from morning to night. Start with the vanilla-bean brioche French toast for brunch on the terrace, followed by a Smokin’ Paloma on the rooftop Skydeck for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. It doesn’t get much better than this!
• Be sure to include Little Sister at the top of your dining plans for an innovative fusion of Southeast Asian and European cuisines. Attracting LA locals from all across the county, Little Sister at The Point features the culinary work of Chef Tin Vuong, who’s also the owner of this popular hotspot. Try the Ca Kho To as a dinner entree, which features Vietnamese caramelized and coconutbraised salmon served in a clay pot.
• Commonly referred to by locals as The Strand, the Marvin Braude Bike Trail is an absolute must-see in Manhattan Beach. Running just along the shoreline, the paved trail spans north up to Pacific Palisades and south all the way down to Palos Verdes. Pack a bag for an entire day out if you plan to traverse the entire path. Make stops in Venice Beach, Marina del Rey and more beach cities along the way!
• One of South Bay’s latest dining destinations, Esperanza Cocina de la Playa in Downtown Manhattan Beach is a stunning Sonoraninspired restaurant. The jaw-dropping interior gives off a glamorous coastal-chic vibe, which draws inspiration from Cabo San Lucas. Stop in for the Fresh Spicy Mango Margarita and the delicious Fajitas Del Mar for an elegant evening out.
SHADE HOTEL MANHATTAN BEACH 1221 N Valley Dr Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 310.546.4995 mb.shadehotel.com
LITTLE SISTER AT THE POINT 830 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste 100 El Segundo, CA 90245 424.835.9878 www.dinelittlesister.com
MARVIN BRAUDE BIKE TRAIL www.traillink.com/trail/marvinbraude-bike-trail
ESPERANZA COCINA DE LA PLAYA 309 Manhattan Beach Blvd Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 424.422.0057 www.esperanzamb.com
Photos - Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach: Shade Hotels | Little Sister at The Point: Simon Nicholls | Marvin Braude Bike Trail: Josh Duke | Esperanza: Art Gray
Searching for the quintessential California destination? Look no further than Manhattan Beach. Popular among families and beachgoers, Manhattan Beach offers some of the best day and night activities in LA. A short drive just south of LAX takes you to this quaint beach community noted for its beautiful coastline and posh hillside homes. Friendly locals say hello to visitors and LA natives alike, fostering a sense of community felt from Aviation Blvd all the way down to the pier. Whether you’re strolling along the sand, sipping an iced vanilla latte or window shopping at mom-and-pop boutiques, there’s no better city to spend a long afternoon enjoying everything surf, sand and sun. Let’s dive right into everything Manhattan Beach has to offer!
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Mountain Escapes Bundle Up and Explore These Winter Wonderland Destinations WRITTEN BY: TAYLOR GORSKI
Cozy up with a cup of coffee in hand as you watch the snow fall, or hit the slopes for an adventurous day at these winter wonderland destinations. A magical mountain getaway offers a change of pace and scenery, allowing you to reset before the upcoming months ahead. It’s time to catch a flight to one of these stunning mountain towns this winter.
Big Sky, MT
Montage Big Sky
The Viceroy
Jackson Hole, WY
• Discover the charm of Jackson Hole with a stay at the modest yet chic boutique hotel, The Anvil. Dine at the Old Yellowstone Garage for a decadent, Italian-inspired meal before heading to the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar for live music and a little Western dancing to fully embrace the wild west culture.
Gone Exploring
• Yellowstone National Park was the firstever national park in the US, which President Ulysses S. Grant designated in 1872. 72 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Easy Access
• Direct flights from John Wayne Airport (SNA) to Aspen Airport (ASE) are now available in December and January. What are you waiting for?
Lake Tahoe, CA
The Anvil
The Ritz-Carlton, L ake Tahoe
Always a Favorite
• While we love all of these destinations for a winter escape, summer months don’t disappoint! Summer activities in these mountain towns include fly fishing, hiking, biking and so much more.
• The picturesque winter views of Lake Tahoe are undeniably breathtaking. With a stay at The RitzCarlton, Lake Tahoe, the winter activities, après-ski experiences, comforting cuisine and relaxing spa treatments are plentiful. Head to Old Town Tap for pizza and cold beer to help you unwind after a day on the slopes.
“KNOWN FOR INCREDIBLE VIEWS, EXCEPTIONAL APRÈS-SKI AND A BURGEONING ARTS AND CULTURE SCENE, MAKE THIS YOUR NEXT SNOW-FILLED GETAWAY.”
Photos - Montage Big Sky & Big Sky Resort | Viceroy Snowmass | Anvil Hotel: Read McKendree | The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
• Montage Big Sky is the newest luxury property in Big Sky Country. With ski-in/ski-out access, a 10,000-square-foot spa featuring an indoor pool, a bowling alley and extraordinary dining experiences, you may never want to (or have to) leave the resort. However, Yellowstone National Park is only a 45-minute drive away, which is definitely worth exploring.
Aspen, CO
• From The Little Nell and Hotel Jerome in Aspen to The Viceroy in nearby Snowmass, this Colorado region offers the best of the best accommodations. Not to mention, there’s no disappointment in shopping, dining or adventuring, either. Known for incredible views, exceptional aprèsski and a burgeoning arts and culture scene, you’ll want to make this your next snow-filled getaway.
“ONE OF THE MOST BELOVED CITIES IN THE WORLD, NEW YORK HAS AN ENERGY LIKE NO OTHER.”
New York, NY
Welcome to New York
• Almost 8.5 million people live in New York City! It is the most populated city in the US.
Las Vegas, NV
• Regardless of the reason you’ve found yourself in Las Vegas, you know it’s going to be an eventful couple of days (maybe even just 24 hours). Here’s what not to miss: stay at the all-new Resorts World and grab cocktails at The Gatsby Lounge. Then, have a boozy brunch at Kassi Beach House and hit Circa Sportsbook, the world’s largest sportsbook.
Photos - Kassi Beach House: Chelsea Christensen | DTLA Proper: The Ingalls | Pendry Manhattan West | SF Proper: Manolo Yllera
Don’t Miss This
Kassi Beach House
• Now you can catch an NFL football game in Las Vegas! The Las Vegas Raiders play at the new Allegiant Stadium, and it’s the city’s first-ever professional football team.
• One of the most beloved cities in the world, New York has an energy like no other. From famous eateries like Carbone and Katz’s Delicatessen to Broadway shows, Central Park and worldclass museums, you (coincidentally) may not want to sleep! But you do need a homebase, so we recommend the Freehand New York, Pendry Manhattan West or The Plaza—iconic!
Something to Consider
Pendry Manhattan West
• Take a ferry ride out to Alcatraz Island in San Francisco to see the infamous prison up close—it’s where American gangster Al Capone was housed.
San Francisco, CA
Los Angeles, CA
• From rooftops to concert venues, downtown Los Angeles is a historic and happening destination. Trendy hotels like DTLA Proper, The Wayfarer and Ace Hotel provide a central location for you to shop at ROW DTLA, dine at Nick + Stef’s and maybe catch a Lakers game at Staples Center.
DTLA Proper
San Francisco Pro per
City Escapes Hit the Streets for a Full Day of Roaming Our Favorite Bustling Cities WRITTEN BY: TAYLOR GORSKI
• Foggy mornings, rolling streets and fresh seafood come to mind when exploring San Francisco. Wander through the Ferry Building for artisan food, bike across the Golden Gate Bridge and rest your head at the captivating San Francisco Proper. There’s a lot of city to explore, so don’t be afraid to hop on those famed cable cars that’ll take you for a spin.
The hustle and bustle of a city can be invigorating, inspiring and maybe even a little overwhelming, but they definitely offer a whole lot of fun. From innovative restaurants to eclectic hotels, there’s always something new to discover—whether you’re in the Big Apple or Sin City. Grab your walking shoes, and let’s have a day in the vibrant cities we love most. LOCALE MAGAZINE 73
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KEEPING IT COASTAL
San Clemente
Beach Town Books
The Vine Restaurant & Bar
South Swell Ice Cream
The Surfbreak Hotel
*Map not to scale
WRITTEN BY: KAYLIN WAIZINGER 74 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Experience the Splendor of This Quaint Spanish Beach Town
Stay:
Dine:
Do:
Don’t Miss
• This charming hotel in the heart of San Clemente offers staycationers a coastal-casual escape, just minutes from some of the best beaches in town. Ocean-esque accents and airy rooms capture the essence of the small “Village by the Sea.” Enjoy a cocktail on your private balcony, then take a stroll down Avenida Del Mar for a taste of local cuisine. The Surfbreak Hotel is perfect for couples, families and solo surfers looking to catch some waves!
• San Clemente may be small, but this town is no slouch when it comes to fine dining. The Vine—a local San Clemente favorite—is a cozy restaurant and wine bar with an eclectic CalifornianMediterranean menu and a carefully curated wine list (aka the perfect date-night combo). The cocktails, like the Smoke Show, are all palate-pleasers. And when it comes to food, the Crispy Jidori Chicken Schnitzel with Maitake Mushrooms is a must!
• Stop by Beach Town Books and browse through a collection of new and used books in their cozy library setting. Every third Saturday of the month, the shop hosts a Readers’ Happy Hour where folks can exchange book recommendations and relax with a cup of coffee or tea. This store has a “gold star” system, so anytime you find a book with a gold star on the binding, you know it’s a good read!
• Satisfy your sweet tooth with a trip to South Swell Ice Cream for a decadent, chocolate-dipped dessert! Everything about this downtown ice cream shop is Insta-worthy—from the pink neon sign that reads “dip me” to the decorated frozen treats. You’ll want to pull out your phone for this one. And for those who are vegan or lactose intolerant, opt for a tasty frozen banana!
THE SURFBREAK HOTEL 1819 S El Camino Real San Clemente, CA 92672 949.492.1960 www.surfbreaksanclemente.com
THE VINE RESTAURANT & BAR 211 N El Camino Real San Clemente, CA 92672 949.361.2079 www.vinesanclemente.com
BEACH TOWN BOOKS 99 Avenida Serra San Clemente, CA 92672 949.492.1114 www.beachtownbooks.com
SOUTH SWELL ICE CREAM 137 Avenida Del Mar San Clemente, CA 92672 949.388.4984 www.southswellicecream.com
Photos - The Surfbreak Hotel: Emily Manwaring | The Vine | Beach Town Books: Mike van Mierlo | South Swell: Kristen Wolfe
Situated on the south end of Orange County sits a little “Spanish village by the sea” where blue waters wash up against sandstone bluffs. San Clemente, known for its laid-back surf culture, charming downtown and preserved Spanish architecture, is an often-overlooked sliver of coast—but locals and those who’ve visited know its splendor. From iconic surf spots to cozy restaurants and wine bars, this small but mighty town is certainly one to add to your “must-visit” list. So next time you catch yourself sitting in traffic on the I-5, make a stop and experience the authentic SoCal charm of this beloved beach town. Here are four stops not to miss when visiting sweet little San Clemente.
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Joshua Tree
MUST-SEES IN J TREE Experience the Best of Joshua Tree With This Fun-filled Itinerary
Fall in Love With These Three High Desert Airbnbs WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN
With its adventurous landscape, scattering of local shops and eateries along the highway and a brilliant showcase of the cosmos illuminating the night sky, Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms have attracted serenity-seekers and sun-chasers alike for years. But don’t worry if you’re not much of a camper, you don’t need a tent or an RV to get the full high-desert experience! Here are three truly spectacular Airbnb properties that complement and pay homage to this beautiful destination.
8 a.m. • Wake yourself up with a quick walk on the Skull Rock Discovery Trail. nps.gov/jotr/index.htm
10:30 a.m.
TERRACASA
• Head to Joshua Tree Coffee Company for the best cup of coffee you may ever have—seriously. www.jtcoffee.com
11 a.m.
Rustic Renaissance
ARRO DUNES @arrodunes
Brighter and Boulder
• Whether you plan on going rock climbing or your itinerary strictly states to stay on-site, you’ll love the homey feel of Terracasa. Located near the National Park’s entrance, this property accommodates up to four guests, so it’s the perfect rental for families, your squad or even just you and your boo. The one-of-a-kind decor and gorgeous amenities like the outdoor shower, hot tub and cozy patio offer major vintage vibes that will make the perfect backdrop for tons of new memories. TERRACASA @terracasahighdesert 76 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Minimalistic Musings
• Trust us, this is the ideal place to press pause on your busy life and reconnect with nature—no Bluetooth necessary. The design at Villa Kuro is minimalistic and inspired by the Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetic, which focuses on humble designs and accepting imperfection and transience. For the perfect day, enjoy the sunshine in Villa Kuro’s courtyard or intimate conversation in the property’s tea room. You’ll get your escape, but after a stay here, you’ll feel more connected than ever. VILLA KURO @villakuro
12:15 p.m. • Visit the World Famous Crochet Museum; it’s tiny, quirky and totally unforgettable. www.sharielf.com/ museum.html
1 p.m. • It’s 5 o’clock somewhere: treat yourself to a cold one at Joshua Tree Brewery! joshuatreebrewery.com
3:30 p.m. Head out to Joshua Tree National Park—JT’s crown jewel for hiking and bouldering. nps.gov/jotr/index.htm
7:30 p.m. • After a busy day, refuel with a juicy burger at the Joshua Tree Saloon. joshuatreesaloon.com
Photos - Villa Kuro: Stanley Yang Photography | Arro Dunes: Kelsey Coppetti | Terracasa: Alison Bernier
• With its expansive windows and 360-degree mountain views, Arro Dunes is an incredible spot to relax and unwind. You’ll love rising out of your plush queensize bed to a stunning landscape and spending the day in the famous high desert sunshine. Soak up some rays on the property’s deck, where you’ll find a 10-foot tank pool and unobstructed views of the surrounding unfenced acres. Then, as the sun sets, snuggle up in the outdoor dining space and enjoy a special dinner al fresco. Bon appétit!
• Browse for new pieces to add to your crystal collection at Joshua Tree Rock Shop. jtrockshopnimports.com
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Joshua Tree
Picture-Perfect
• The Halls hope that “visitors will enjoy cozy evenings playing vintage records [and enjoy] the desertscape in one of the many seating areas.”
FOX & FEATHER CABIN @foxandfeathercabin
Take a Look Inside Joshua Tree’s Newest, MostCoveted Cabin
WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: DANIEL JAMES RYAN PHOTOGRAPHY
Tucked away in the high desert of Joshua Tree, Fox & Feather Cabin offers a “midcentury style-meets-cowboy with a Moroccan flair” escape. It’s the ideal space for a special celebration, a romantic anniversary or for the best kind of occasion: just because.
“WE WANTED TO BLEND THE HIGH-DESERT AESTHETIC WITH ELEMENTS OF MIDCENTURY MODERN STYLE FROM THE LIKES OF PIERRE JEANNERET AND HANS WEGNER.”—JOHN HALL 78 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Originally built as a homestead in 1958, the Fox & Feather property has recently received some truly remarkable TLC from John and David Hall. “Early this year we took the property up a notch creating an indooroutdoor vibe,” John states. “We wanted to blend the high-desert aesthetic with elements of midcentury modern style from the likes of
Pierre Jeanneret and Hans Wegner.” The results of the couple’s efforts are staggeringly beautiful. Now, Fox & Feather features a fun saloon, plenty of seating space and a spa-like indoor shower with infinity glass separating you from the outside world. And while the manmade portion of this property is magnificent, you’ll love exploring Mother Nature’s contributions to the private acreage, including the view of the mountainside, which comes alive in shades of purple at sundown. We could go on and on about how stunning this rental is, but the best way for you to believe it is to see it for yourself.
Hi, Desert!
• John and David love sprucing up desert homes. “In our nearly eight years together, we’ve developed a knack for rehabbing old properties in Los Angeles and the desert communities,” John says. “We’ve always had a special love for the high desert.”
Starlight, Star Bright
• Want to see something truly magical? After enjoying a gorgeous sunset, stay outdoors to marvel at a sky full of constellations and shooting stars.
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Bondi Beach, Australia
ICEBERG’S DINING ROOM AND BAR
How to Have a G’Day in Aussie WRITTEN BY: ERIK HALE
HOTEL RAVESIS
Bondi Beach, Australia
80 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Bondi Beach, this is a love letter. How could we have known that the last time might truly be the last time—or at least last time for a very long while? As I’m currently writing this, Americans cannot enter Australia and Australians cannot leave. We can only hope that our memories make this long-distance relationship work and that we will be reunited very soon. Until then, we can dream about days spent swimming in your clear blue waters. Here is how we would spend a day in Bondi Beach if we could. Come along!
Photos - Hotel Ravesis | Iceberg’s Dining Room and Bar: Jason Loucas & Nikki To | Rocker Bondi | Bronte Baths: Thomas Yohei
BRONTE BATHS
9:30 a.m.
5 p.m.
Take a Dip
Look at the Time!
• Swimming at Icebergs gets all of the national attention, but we recommend a swim in the natural pool at the Bronte Baths located in the next town over, Bronte. This seaside destination features a saltwater rock pool for swimming and sunbathing. Grab a “little lunch” (small bite to tide you over) at Moxhe, a fresh Australian seafood restaurant. www.moxhe.com.au
1 p.m.
Dine at Hotel Ravesis
• Time to rest your feet and stuff your face at the Hotel Ravesis! We suggest a seared tuna burger, shoestring fries and a bottle of Thousand Candles Sauvignon Blanc from the Yarra Valley. Enjoy your just reward on the second-floor patio under the pink awning of the eclectic hotel that looks directly onto the beach. Finish off your meal by ordering the flourless orange cake with rose water syrup and pistachio ice cream.
5:30 a.m.
Coffee and Surf Check
• Bondi is bustling in the morning, and you’ll have plenty of choices for your caffeine fix. Even getting up this early, it’ll feel like half the town is out of bed! Stop by Speedo’s Cafe for a flat white and croissant to fuel your day.
7 a.m.
Bondi to Coogee Walk
• Time to walk off that croissant with the most beautiful walk in existence. The seven-mile round-trip Bondi to Coogee walk is entirely coastal. Meander through rocky coves, white sand beaches, small towns and even a cemetery.
• Yes, there has been a lot of drinking today, but one more won’t kill you... most likely. Take a seat on the terrace at Iceberg’s Dining Room and Bar, which sits above the beach and the Iceberg’s iconic pool. Order the most expensive drink of the day and take in stunning views of Bondi! www.idrb.com
7 p.m.
Spritz and Sunset
• For dinner, make reservations at Rocker for their Sydney rock oysters, all-you-can-eat mussels and an Aperol spritz. Take in amazing sunset views and toast to a day wellspent. Cheers, mate! www.rockerbondi.com.au
www.hotelravesis.com
3 p.m. ROCKER
Sip Back and Relax • You had a big lunch and a bottle of wine, and now you have two choices: take a nap or find a good book in the Gertrude and Alice Bookstore. We recommend you order a chai, place the book on your lap and take a nap.
ROCKER
HOTEL RAVESIS
gertrudeandalice.com.au
LOCALE MAGAZINE 81
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Fuel Your Day With Love
Bart’s Books
• Ojai is home to the world’s largest outdoor bookstore, Bart’s Books. With over 130,000 books and a serene, natural atmosphere, it’s easy to see why Bart’s has been a favorite for over 50 years.
• Begin your Ojai adventure with a healthy serving of serotonin, courtesy of the incredible baristas at Love Social Cafe. Aside from serving up some of the tastiest breakfast burritos and matcha lattes in town, Love Social also boasts a palpable commitment to spreading positivity and joy via live music, vibrant artwork and a gorgeous, sun-soaked patio. LOVE SOCIAL CAFE www.lovesocialcafe.com
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Roadside Retreat
Eclectic Finds
CAPRI HOTEL www.caprihotelojai.com
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• Next, take a quick walk down the street and partake in a one-of-a-kind shopping experience at In the Field. Owned and operated by all-star couple Channon and Bianca Roe, this boutique embraces the raw beauty of the region by offering up clothing, homewares and jewelry that are equal parts rugged and refined.
Ojai
IN THE FIELD inthefieldojai.com
Caravan Outpost
Enjoy a Weekend of Wellness in This Time-Honored California Town
Tasty Bites and Sips
• Next, satiate any craving you may have at one of Ojai’s most popular lunch destinations, The Nest. Boasting an extravagantly large selection of specialty salads, sandwiches, appetizers and more, The Nest has quickly become a town favorite, serving up adventurous eats on a picturesque brick patio.
• With 10 fully restored slipstream caravan campers situated inside a lush, sprawling garden, Caravan Outpost offers one of the most unique and charming lodging options in the area.
WRITTEN BY: CHRISTIAN WAIZINGER 6
Sip Back and Relax
• Now that you are feeling rested and refreshed, for your final stop, take a trip to the breathtaking Topa Mountain Winery for wine-tasting and a light dinner. Whether you are strolling through the endless sea of oaks and redwoods sipping chardonnay or soaking up the scenery beneath the mountains, Topa Mountain Winery is sure to impress.
THE NEST thenestojai.com
TOPA MOUNTAIN WINERY www.topamountainwinery.com
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Relaxation and Rejuvenation
Hot Springs
• Itching for an adventure? Be sure to check out Ojai’s natural hot springs. Located along the Matilija Creek in the Los Padres National Forest, this breathtaking oasis is well worth the trek. 82 LOCALE MAGAZINE
• After lunch, indulge yourself further by enjoying one of the many award-winning services offered at Spa Ojai at the Ojai Valley Inn. Hailed as one of the best spas in the country, the serenity experts at Spa Ojai offer an incredible lineup of treatments that will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. OJAI VALLEY INN www.ojaivalleyinn.com/spa-ojai
Photos - Capri Hotel: Yoshihiro Makino | In the Field: Marianna Schultz | Spa Ojai at Ojai Valley Inn: Ojai Valley Inn | Topa Mountain Winery: Anna Delores Photography | Love Social | The Nest Ojai
• While Ojai is a city adorned with luxurious resorts, none quite capture the rustic charm of the region like the Capri Hotel. Overlooking the gorgeous, pink tips of the Topa Topa Mountains, this mid-century revival weaves modern luxury with vintage accents to create a hotel experience that’s unlike any other.
escape /// guide
Located in South Orange County, Laguna Beach is an 8.84-square-mile town full of scenic views to go with quaint restaurants, shops, galleries and more. Laguna Beach serves as a top destination for travelers and holds a distinctive charm because of its deep ties to art, local culture and environmental conservation. Surrounded by canyons and rolling waves, the town’s picturesque landscape, unique coves, beachy architecture and inspiring community make it an incredible place to visit year-round. Whether you’re riding the trolley downtown, hiking through the canyons, snorkeling in the crystal-clear water or lounging on the sand, Laguna Beach has something for everyone to enjoy. Trade in your normal commute for coastal views, and be sure to explore these must-visit destinations during your next Laguna Beach visit. First Thursdays Art Walk
Hotel Joaquin Harley Laguna Beach
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
*Map not to scale
WRITTEN BY: AMEIHIA TURINGAN 84 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Fall in Love With the Charm of This Quirky Beach Town
Stay:
Dine:
Do:
Don’t Miss
• The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel embodies the laidback Southern California lifestyle with its coastalinspired color palette and seaside location. Enjoy some R&R at the resort’s spa and indulge in Pan-Latin cuisine at restaurant RAYA or steakhouse enoSTEAK. If you prefer quaint over sumptuous, Hotel Joaquin is also a stellar staycation option. This barefoot-chic retreat digs deep into the details with amenities like morning coffee delivery and bohemian design elements, such as curated artwork and vinyl record players.
• Since opening in 2018, Harley has become a neighborhood staple with its delicious dishes, thirstquenching libations and accommodating service. The casual, hospitalitydriven restaurant focuses on New American cuisine and creative, seasonal menu items. Named after Chef Greg Daniels’ grandma, Harley Laguna Beach is replete with stellar food, a charming staff and a welcoming environment reflecting its namesake. The restaurant resembles a cozy nook with green, white and black-colored accents filling the space.
• With lush landscaping, gorgeous ocean views and a refreshing sea breeze, there’s no better place to picnic than Laguna Beach. And with The Picnic Collective, all you have to do is show up and a stunning set up will be waiting for you. Whether it’s a special occasion, a girls trip or a romantic evening, The Picnic Collective does just the trick. Unwind, enjoy your meal and take in the acres of beautiful scenery.
• Witness the beauty of Laguna Beach’s longestablished art community by exploring the city’s abundance of creative works. The First Thursdays Art Walk is held every first Thursday of the month from 6-9 p.m. and features works from over 30 Laguna Beach art galleries. During First Thursdays Art Walk, you can expand your mind and enjoy gallery tours, live music, drinks and creative installations during these nights of celebration.
THE RITZ-CARLTON, LAGUNA NIGUEL www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ california/laguna-niguel HOTEL JOAQUIN www.hoteljoaquin.com
HARLEY LAGUNA BEACH 370 Glenneyre St Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.715.1530 www.harleylagunabeach.com
THE PICNIC COLLECTIVE 1975 Placentia Ave Costa Mesa, CA 92627 949.216.0734 thepicniccollective.com
FIRST THURSDAYS ART WALK 891 Laguna Canyon Rd Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.683.6871 www.firstthursdaysartwalk.org
Photos - The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel: Jonathan Rouse | Harley Laguna Beach: Timothy Aukshunas | First Thursdays Art Walk: Laguna Art Museum | Picnic at Treasure Island Park: Michelle Adams
Laguna Beach KEEPING IT COASTAL
THE RITZ-CARLTON, LAGUNA NIGUEL One Ritz-Carlton Dr Dana Point, CA 92629 949.240.2000 www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ california/laguna-niguel
*Map not to scale
escape /// guide Healdsburg, CA
St. Helena, CA
Kenwood, CA
Santa Ynez Valley
Valley Escapes
These Four California Regions Are Ideal for a Wine Weekend Away WRITTEN BY: TAYLOR GORSKI MONTAGE HEALDSBURG
St. Helena, CA
86 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Healdsburg, CA
• The charming destination of Healdsburg offers a serene escape filled with pristine wine and farm-to-table cuisine. Located in Sonoma County about 45 miles north of San Francisco, this small town is ideal for a weekend filled with relaxation. Stay at the recently opened Montage Healdsburg, situated on vineyards and filled with luxurious amenities (like the zero-edge resort pool and 11,500-squarefoot spa). While it’ll be hard to even leave this top-notch resort, plan to visit Jordan Vineyard and Winery for French-inspired wine at their enchanting estate. Choose between a vineyard or seated tasting as you take in the beautiful views of rolling hills and greenery. Make your final stop of the evening at The Matheson for an upscale, farm-fresh dinner experience. Everything from the innovative flavors of each creation to the unique sushi kitchen and wine wall with 88 reds, whites and everything in between on tap will make it a dinner to remember.
THE CHARMING DESTINATION
THE MATHESON
OF HEALDSBURG OFFERS A SERENE ESCAPE FILLED WITH PRISTINE WINE AND FARM-TOTABLE CUISINE. ALILA NAPA VALLEY Photos - Alila Napa Valley | Montage Healdsburg: Christian Horan | The Matheson: Michael Woolsey
• St. Helena in Napa Valley is a picturesque town delighted with vineyards, restaurants and shops. When arriving, curb your hunger by making a stop at Gott’s Roadside for a California Burger, crispy fries and a hand-spun black-and-white shake. Treat yourself to a stay at Alila Napa Valley; the vibe is elegant and minimalistic, and it offers an ideal, serene environment to unplug and take in the stunning vineyard views. The prime location allows guests to walk to downtown Main St and Beringer Estate Winery. With 144 years in the Napa Valley, Beringer is the oldest continuously operating winery in California. Stop in for a tasting of the prestigious wines and also consider making stops at HALL St. Helena, Charles Krug Winery and Duckhorn Vineyards. When you’ve had too many glasses of red and need to fill your tummy, head to Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch. Serving lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch, this rustic-chic restaurant is a must when in St. Helena (and perfect for a celebration). Start with the Farmstead charcuterie board before digging into the grass-fed cheeseburger or California Arborio rice.
ALILA NAPA VALLEY KENWOOD INN
BOOK A SOOTHING TREATMENT TO KICK-START YOUR DAY AT THE ON-SITE SPA—BECAUSE YOU’VE GOT A LONG, HARD DAY OF WINE TASTING AHEAD!
KENWOOD INN
GETTING THERE
KENWOOD INN
THE INN AT ZACA CREEK
Kenwood, CA
• Between Santa Rosa and Sonoma exists Kenwood, a small wine town with lots of outdoor activities to explore. Kenwood Inn is a boutique hotel with Mediterranean-inspired decor fit for a tranquil weekend getaway. Book a soothing treatment to kick-start your day at the on-site spa—because you’ve got a long, hard day of wine tasting ahead! Chateau St. John is a romantic winery with a variety of tasting opportunities. Take a drive into Santa Rosa for garden dining at The Spinster Sisters. With everything from grilled octopus, oysters and clam chowder to eggplant croquettes, housemade pappardelle and flat iron steak, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Hike or camp at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park for gorgeous views of the valley, which is also a great alternative if you find yourself in Sonoma County with the whole family!
Now that you’re inspired to plan a wine-filled getaway, how are you getting there? Check out your options below. By Car • Coming from SoCal, the drive to Santa Ynez is a no-brainer, but the drive to Northern California is a bit longer of a trek. With around eight hours total from Southern California to wine country, stops for gas and food will be a necessity! Another option is to break up the drive into two days; stop in either Big Sur or San Francisco to rest your head for a night before reaching your final destination.
Photos - Kenwood Inn and Spa | The Inn at Zaca Creek: Lena Britt Photography | S.Y. Kitchen: Bri Burkett
By Jet
Santa Ynez Valley
• The Santa Ynez Valley is a true hidden gem that is not to be overlooked when planning a wine getaway. With quaint towns like Ballard, Buellton, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Solvang and Santa Ynez making up the area, take time to slow down for the weekend in this cowboyesque, California wine region. Only about a two-hour car ride from Los Angeles, it’s a totally drivable destination without getting too antsy—and a glass of wine will be waiting for you! For romantic accommodations, stay at The Inn at Zaca Creek, where there’s only six unique rooms. The floor-to-ceiling stone walls and dim lighting transport you to a European escape in the English countryside. Walk just steps from your room and dine at the on-site restaurant,
The Tavern at Zaca Creek, for delicious cocktails (the Heartbreaker is a must) and decadent dishes like steak, burgers and fish. Start the next morning off lounging by the pool, and spend the day exploring vineyards like Roblar Winery and Vineyards, Liquid Farm and Sunstone Winery. Explore the town of Santa Ynez and pop into local shops like Forage Florals for home decor and gifts and Santa Ynez General for a chic sweater to remember the trip. For dinner, don’t miss out on S.Y. Kitchen, where fresh, seasonal salads, homemade pasta and wood-fired pizza dishes shine. If you’re planning your 2022 vacations, check out the cottages at the all-new The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, an Auberge Resorts Collection in Los Olivos, for a luxurious yet laid-back stay.
• Private travel is becoming more and more accessible these days. With JSX, fly directly from Orange County to Napa to avoid both the long drive and airport crowds.
By Plane • If you’re not about the jet life, there’s also the option to fly into SFO, OAK, SMF or STS. Rent a car to drive to your final stop or use a ridesharing service! S.Y. KITCHEN LOCALE MAGAZINE 87
MISSION PACIFIC HOTEL
escape /// guide
Oceanside KEEPING IT COASTAL
Mission Pacific Hotel
Pacific Coast Spirits
Piper Tremont Collective
*Map not to scale
WRITTEN BY: KERI BRIDGWATER 88 LOCALE MAGAZINE
This Spirited City Is Bustling With Co-Op Spaces and Creativity
Stay:
Dine:
Do:
Don’t Miss
• With its rooftop pool, see-and-be-seen eateries (including Top Gun houseturned-dessert bar Charlie’s) and an effortless “California cool-meets-bohemian chic” aesthetic, Oceanside’s brand new Mission Pacific Hotel instantly made an impression after swinging open its doors this spring. From the lobby to its 161 guest rooms, the wowfactor here hits you over and over again. Artwork curated by the Oceanside Museum of Art is featured throughout while high-touch accents lend a luxe residential feel.
• Head next door to Mission Pacific’s sister property, The Seabird Resort, for a tasty meal at the all-new Piper Restaurant. With an openkitchen design and made-toorder craft pasta station, Piper is a haven for seasonal and authentic California cuisine. Enjoy oceanfront views and inventive, garden-to-table bites for breakfast or dinner as you revel in the coastal ambiance and chic allure of this new Oceanside gem.
• Hop in the car (or borrow an e-bike from Mission Pacific Hotel) and zip down to mixed-use complex Tremont Collective, an inspired warehouse conversion in the heart of Oceanside that houses retail shops, a fitness studio, a variety of eating and drinking establishments and pop-ups. They even host film premieres! Be sure to stop by Brixton, Oceanside’s homegrown streetwear brand, to shop the classic collection of retro apparel.
• Take an evening stroll down South Coast Hwy to Pacific Coast Spirits for a craft cocktail in true Oceanside fashion. The expansive drink list has plenty of craft cocktails and barrel-aged numbers to go along with house favorites like the Pisco Sour, but those who fancy sipping spirits can get a tasting flight of housemade agaves, gins or bourbons instead. The distillery’s onsite restaurant also serves up tasty bites like hot pickle chips, caprese flatbreads and fish taco bowls.
MISSION PACIFIC HOTEL 201 N Myers St Oceanside, CA 92054 855.365.5078 www.missionpacifichotel.com
PIPER 105 Mission Ave Oceanside, CA 92054 760.512.3816 www.theseabirdresort.com/ restaurants-bars/piper
TREMONT COLLECTIVE 602 S Tremont Oceanside, CA 92054 www.tremontcollective.com
PACIFIC COAST SPIRITS 404 S Coast Hwy Oceanside, CA 92054 760.453.7150 www.paccoastspirits.com
Photos - Mission Pacific | Piper: Audrey Ma | Tremont Collective: Jasmine Fitzwilliam, @letsfrolictogether | Pacific Coast Spirits: Lucia Schaldenko
With its surf and skateboard roots, historic wooden pier, tuckedaway harbor and nearby former Spanish mission, the coastal city of Oceanside has something for every type of traveler. Between downtown O’Side (as the locals affectionately call it) and its hipper adjoining neighborhood, South O, you’ll find local boutiques, craft coffee shops, stellar restaurants, museums and everything in between. With winter in full swing (aka no summer crowds), there is no better time to explore this laid-back Southern California beach town. After all, this city has undergone a transformation you’ll have to see to believe. From where to stay and shop to the best places to grab cocktails, bites and more, here’s your guide to a day out in Oceanside.
escape /// guide
“WITH BRISK DAYS AND CLEAR, CHILLY NIGHTS, IT’S THE PERFECT PLACE TO BASK IN THE BEAUTY OF THE WINTRY SEASON.”
OMNI TUCSON NATIONAL RESORT
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Serious Eats
OMNI TUCSON NATIONAL RESORT
Tucson WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN
OMNI TUCSON NATIONAL RESORT
Whether you’re road tripping through the desert or hopping aboard a plane, make sure that Tucson, Arizona is the destination of your next winter escape. With brisk days and clear, chilly nights, it’s the perfect place to bask in the beauty of the wintry season. Here are 10 things to do in Tucson for the most magical vacay ever.
Rest Easy
• Experience true luxury at the dreamy Omni Tucson National Resort. From indulging in award-winning cuisine to enjoying a rejuvenating hot stone massage at the full-service spa, it’s clear that this resort prioritizes rest and relaxation. The grounds are absolutely stunning, and you’ll love exploring the beautiful Arizona landscape and watching the sunset while enjoying a glass of wine on your balcony. If a recharge is what you need, look no further than this stunning Arizona oasis.
TUCSON CITY OF GASTRONOMY tucson.cityofgastronomy.org MT. LEMMON SKYCENTER
OMNI TUCSON NATIONAL RESORT www.omnihotels.com/ hotels/tucson-national
OMNI TUCSON NATIONAL RESORT www.omnihotels.com/ hotels/tucson-national/golf
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Happy Trails
• One of the best ways to enjoy any vacation is by exploring the local landscape! Whether you want to go for a nature walk or you’re looking for something more advanced, there are plenty of hiking trails to choose from. Take a halfday hike on the Seven Falls Trail to marvel at natural waterfalls, wander on the gentle, beginnerfriendly Bridal Wreath path or soak up Sonoran views on the Wasson Peak Trail—winter is the best time to explore the latter!
Walk on the Wild Side
• The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum lets you experience a world-renowned zoo, botanical garden and natural history museum all in one visit! 6
We’re Levitating
• Soak up the starlight, moonlight and the wonders of the cosmos during SkyNights at Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter. 7
Chop Chop!
• Come hungry to Bob's Steak & Chop House at Omni Tucson—you’ll need room for their mammoth-sized meals and top-tier ingredients. 8
Get Wheel
• Enjoy the magnificent desert views at your own speed and rent an eclectic bike for your next outdoor excursion. 9
The Best Sort of Views
• The piece de resistance of any trip to Tucson? An unforgettable hotair balloon ride, of course! 10
Out on the Town
OMNI TUCSON NATIONAL RESORT 2727 W Club Dr Tucson, AZ 85742 520.297.2271 www.omnihotels.com/hotels/tucson-national
90 LOCALE MAGAZINE
• With its recent revitalization efforts, you’ll love walking through downtown Tucson for the historic buildings, food scene and bustling nightlife.
Photos - Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter: Photo Courtesy of Mt Lemmon SkyCenter | Omni Tucson National Resort: Courtesy of Omni Tucson National
Your 10-Stop Itinerary for the Desert Getaway of Your Dreams
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• For truly passionate foodies, head to Tucson City of Gastronomy, the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the US. While exploring, keep an eye out for local restaurants, farmers markets and wineries that have been TCOG-certified. This certification celebrates eateries and artisans that help maintain Tucson’s culinary traditions, support the local food economy and have ethical, sustainable and community-minded business practices. Be sure to check out the website for amazing food and beverage tours.
• If your ideal day includes time on a champion-worthy green, you’ll fall head over spikes for Omni Tucson’s two gorgeous courses. The Sonoran is a desertstyle course designed by Tom Lehman, and the Catalina Course is a Parkland-style course that has hosted over 30 PGA events—the pros consider the Catalina’s 18th hole to be one of the most challenging on the PGA Tour. You can’t go wrong with either...but who says you have to choose?
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escape /// guide
Capri, Italy
The tiny island of Capri, stationed just off the Amalfi coast, is captivating and timeless, beautiful and essential. It exists as a tribute to great wealth and great taste without wholly ever rubbing either in your face. It has played both its roles of plaything and escape hatch for hundreds of years. And as is the case with anything so beautiful, staring into the crystalline, aquacolored waters framed by the massive rock formation, Faraglioni, might transfix you forever into a semicatatonic state. This is how to spend one perfect day in Capri!
How to Spend an Idyllic Day on the Italian Island of Capri WRITTEN BY: ERIK HALE
Capri, Italy
92 LOCALE MAGAZINE
1 p.m.
5 p.m.
Wine and Dine
Hit Snooze
• Our private boat was more than happy to drop us off for lunch at La Fontelina. This open-air restaurant and secluded beach club is dotted with striped blue and white umbrellas on a rocky outcropping that is the subject of many Gray Malin photos. We ate fish covered in salt, drank wine and enjoyed affogatos for dessert. www.fontelina-capri.com
3 p.m.
VIP Experience
• Walk down the stairs from the restaurant and secure your seat at the most picturesque and celebrity-visited beach club in the world. The club costs 35 euros per person but is well worth it. You can swim, sunbathe, read a book and order another bottle of wine...or two.
• La Fontelina has a wooden water taxi to shuttle you back to Marina Piccola. Take the 15-minute walk back to your couch and promptly collapse until dinner. 7 p.m.
Head Into Town
• The Piazzetta di Capri (a small square in town) is ideal for peoplewatching. Snag a seat at one of the four outdoor cafes, order an Aperol spritz or a Negroni, listen to the bells ring in the nearby church and do
stomach exercises to prepare for dinner.
www.cittadicapri.it/it/s/lapiazzetta-di-capri-2
9 p.m.
Ciao Down
• Da Paolino is the only restaurant that you must visit while in Capri. The restaurant’s roof is pieced together by the intertwining vines of a lemon orchard. Arrive early for drinks at the bar, order everything on the menu and finish with a shot of limoncello. www.paolinocapri.com
www.fontelina-capri.com/ it/mare
DA PAOLINO
find a place to sit and enjoy an espresso and croissant while watching the city wake up. 7 a.m.
Hit the Beach
• No matter where you stay on the island, the water is going to be a fast walk downhill and a slow walk back up. Walk down to Marina Piccola in the morning for a swim at a beautiful rock-covered beach. You can swim laps under a stone arch or jump off the smaller rocks.
www.capri.com/en/s/marinapiccola-2
DA PAOLINO
10 a.m.
Hop on a Boat
• Charter a private boat for a three-hour tour! Our host, Vittorio, fed us fresh peaches, wine from his own vineyard and home-jarred capers. You must pay the smaller row boats to enter the Blue Grotto, but the luminescent water of the cave is well worth it.
www.capri.net/en/s/la-grottaazzurra
8 a.m.
Fuel Your Day
• In Capri, you won’t find much American fare for breakfast, so we’ll save the big meals for lunch and dinner. Wander through the village and LOCALE MAGAZINE 93
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A.M. Eats
• No vacation is complete without a hearty brunch, and Sally Loo’s is just the place. This neighborhood cafe is housed in a charming 1930s building and serves up a tasty selection of eats, including hand-crafted espresso drinks, paninis and breakfast dishes. SALLY LOO’S WHOLESOME CAFE www.sallyloos.com
Stacked Delights
• Snag a mouthwatering sando at High Street Deli, San Luis Obispo’s original sandwich “joint.” This corner market offers a daily deal at 4:20 p.m., when all sandos are $7.50!
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Makin’ My Way Downtown
Luxury Digs
• In the heart of downtown sits the allnew Hotel San Luis Obispo—a 78-room urban resort perfect for those in search of a posh getaway. This stylish retreat features everything from original artwork and a fine-dining steakhouse to a rooftop lounge offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
AMBIANCE www.shopambiance.com
HOTEL SAN LUIS OBISPO www.hotel-slo.com
San Luis Obispo
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Explore the Laid-Back Lifestyle and Captivating Scenery of the Central Coast
Pretty in Pink
• A California icon since 1958, Madonna Inn offers visitors a sense of time-honored hospitality with it’s opulent decor, themed guest rooms and award-winning restaurants. Just about everything in and at Madonna Inn is bright pink, so prepare for some photo ops, and don’t leave without trying one of their famous freshly baked cakes!
WRITTEN BY: KAYLIN WAIZINGER
Bare It All
• Located just south of Avila Beach is Pirate’s Cove, a secluded sandy spot where clothing is optional.
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Ciao Down
• In the mood for some ‘za? Head to Flour House downtown for a tasty Neapolitan-style pizza or pasta dish! You’ll fall in love with the restaurant’s cozy patio and authentic Italian ambiance. Flour House also offers a stellar Meter Monday deal where you can order a pizza the size of your table that serves eight people!
MADONNA INN www.madonnainn.com
FLOUR HOUSE www.flourhouseslo.com
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Beer O’Clock
Rise and Shine
• Up for a challenge? Embark on a sunrise hike up to Bishop Peak; awaiting you at the top are 360-degree views of scenery. 94 LOCALE MAGAZINE
• Situated about 10 minutes from downtown sits SLO Brew Rock—a popular place for a pint. This 30-barrel brewhouse and taproom is centered around a towering rock and features plenty of outdoor seating, fire pits and games—giant Jenga and cornhole, anyone? The Rock also has a stellar menu of pub grub; we say try the sausage, pretzel and fondue! SLO BREW ROCK www.slobrew.com/the-rock
Photos - Hotel San Luis Obispo: Tanveer Badal | Sally Loo’s Wholesome Cafe: @elliekoleen | Higuera Street (Ambiance): Savannah Grace Photography | Madonna Inn | Slo Brew Rock: SLO Brew | Flour House
• Head downtown for the afternoon and explore San Luis Obispo’s bustling tree-lined Higuera St. Here, you’ll find an assortment of open-air restaurants and quaint boutiques, including Ambiance—a stylish shop with chic apparel, home decor, gifts and accessories.
escape /// guide
Coronado Island KEEPING IT COASTAL
With wide pristine beaches, a walkable main street filled with kitschy boutiques and stores, a seaside golf course, bustling bike path and dozens of restaurants, Coronado Island is a top destination for a weekend escape. Soak up the salty air, balmy weather and cool ocean waves in this laidback paradise. Paris Little and Me Frenchie Boutique
Hotel del Coronado
Loews Coronado Bay Resort
*Map not to scale
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LOEWS CORONADO BAY RESORT
Soak Up the Small-Town Vibes of This Seaside Oasis in San Diego
Stay:
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Don’t Miss
• From a private beach and four in-house restaurants to nautical-themed balcony rooms overlooking the bay, Loews Coronado Bay Resort is a premium island oasis. Sweat by the sea with complimentary yoga and spin classes or adventure out with on-site kayak and paddleboard rentals. If R&R sounds more appealing, book a relaxing treatment at the Sea Spa or enjoy a cocktail by one of the three heated pools.
• Beachy brunch bites at Little Frenchie are a must on the weekend! This Parisianstyle cafe whisks you off to cobblestone streets with classic French bistro chairs under fringe-adorned umbrellas along the bustling, flower box-lined sidewalk. The menu is packed with French favorites like Bruleéd French Toast, buckwheat crêpes, smoked salmon Benedict and croque monsieur. Bubbly mimosas and a basket of flaky, buttery pastries complement any dish.
• Meander down Coronado Island’s main street into Paris and Me Boutique for a flightless trip to a European boutique. Owned by a mother-daughter duo, this simultaneously charming and luxurious storefront boasts an artfully curated and handpicked collection of sweaters, dresses and everything in between. With options ranging from Chanel and Chloe to Valentino and the P&M private label, you’ll be walking out with a bag (or two) in hand.
• A quintessentially Southern California experience awaits at Hotel del Coronado’s seasonal ice skating rink on the coast. With the backdrop of glittering lights draped across the cinematic resort’s red turrets on one side and the calm waves of the Pacific Ocean on the other, the icy rink is a true winter wonderland—west coaststyle. After an evening of skating, cozy up with a cup of hot cocoa and take in views of the ocean.
LITTLE FRENCHIE 1166 Orange Ave Coronado, CA 92118 619.675.0041 littlefrenchiesd.com
PARIS AND ME BOUTIQUE 1114 Orange Ave Coronado, CA 92118 619.435.0514 www.parisandmeboutique.com
LOEWS CORONADO BAY RESORT 4000 Coronado Bay Rd Coronado, CA 92118 877.872.8559 www.loewshotels.com/coronadobay-resort
HOTEL DEL CORONADO 1500 Orange Ave Coronado, CA 92118 619.435.6611 www.hoteldel.com
Photos - Loews Coronado Bay Resort | Little Frenchie: Haley Hill Photography | Paris + Me Boutique: Michael Wesley, Model: Kai Frias | Hotel del Coronado
A quick ferry ride or drive across the curving blue bridge away from San Diego will drop you on Coronado Island—a picture-perfect coastal town. While the peninsula initially gained fame as a celebrity hotspot with the likes of Marilyn Monroe, L. Frank Baum and past presidents frequenting the area, Coronado Island has remained unpretentious with a slow and sleepy beach-town vibe felt from the moment you step onto its shady, tree-lined streets.
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6:30 EACH NIGHT DECEMBER 15-19
ON THE WAVES!
YOUR SoCal HOLIDAY HQ
OPENING NIGHT GRAND MARSHALS
DON’T MISS: OPENING NIGHT COMMUNAL MARKET AND FIREWORKS
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COMMITTEE LIST
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LARRY I. SMITH Parade Co-Chair
D.J. MARTIN Committee Member
Larry I. Smith/ Surterre Properties
Connell Chevrolet
DAVID BEEK Parade Co-Chair
MAC MCCARTHY Parade Participant Assistance
Island Marine Fuel
TIMOTHY SHIELDS Parade Control Co-Chair George & Shields, LLP, Business Law
JOE STAPLETON Parade and Ring of Lights Judging Chairman Spinnaker Investment Group, LLC
MARIE CASE Committee Member Case Communications
DON LAWRENZ Parade Control Co-Chair Best Life & Health Insurance Co.
PAUL BLANK Newport Beach Harbormaster/Committee Member City of Newport Beach
GARY LEWELLYN Orange County Sheriff Captain
SEASON’S GREETINGS WELCOME TO THE 113TH NEWPORT BEACH CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE!
Enjoy the magic of the holidays with the 113th anniversary of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade & Ring of Lights. Hailed by The New York Times as one of the nation’s top 10 holiday happenings, we are delighted to share our “Christmas Card to the World” from Dec. 15-19 at 6:30 p.m. nightly. You’re invited to “Jingle on the Waves” and watch as Newport Harbor sparkles and shines during this merry celebration!
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The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is hosted by the Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce—a dedicated group of members who provide support for the chamber’s special events. We would like to thank our 100 LOCALE MAGAZINE
For more information on the Christmas Boat Parade and Ring of Lights, visit www. christmasboatparade.com and Chamber of Commerce happenings at www. newportbeach.com.
JEFF PARKER Committee Member/ Marketing/Voice of the Parade Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce
STEVE ROSANSKY Committee Member Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce
JEFF TUCKER OC Sheriff Sergeant Orange County Sheriff
GER ARD WIDDER Committee Member Pelican Hill Resort
DON YAHN Committee Member Cushman & Wakefield
LAUREL ZAESKE Committee Member
Orange County Sheriff
Attorney at Law
CHRIS DELFS Committee Member
DOUG MCCLAIN Committee Member/ Marketing
Mr. Care - First Team Estates
PERSON GARCIA Committee Member Pelican Hill Resort
SABRINA LITTLE Committee Member
Newport Beach and Company
ERIN ROSE Committee Member/ Marketing Newport Beach and Company
Coldwell Banker Residential Mortgage - Realtor
The Commodores Club and the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce wish you a happy holiday season!
Warmest Holiday Wishes,
LARRY SMITH Co-Chair
DAVID BEEK Co-Chair
Surterre Properties
Island Marine Fuel
Photos - Visit Newport Beach
Please take a moment to view the parade map. This year’s parade will follow the same celebrated route, with participants commencing from the tip of Lido Isle. Residents and visitors can view the beautifully decorated yachts, boats, kayaks and canoes in the parade from the Dine & Watch waterfront and Dine & Walk dining options within walking distance of the many public viewing spots.
presenting sponsors, Simple Green and Davey’s Locker, as well as our community sponsors, the City of Newport Beach and Visit Newport Beach.
Sea Tow
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Gradually, each year, other lighted boats fell in line behind the city employees’ floating tree.
HOORAY FOR OUR HEROES HONORING LOCAL OLYMPIANS, FIRST RESPONDERS AND OTHERS WHO BETTER THE COMMUNITY
The brightest lights in the parade are this year’s line-up of Grand Marshals, which include local Orange County olympians, hospitality heroes, local organizations and those who protect and serve our community. The parade will feature many of these heroes who were nominated on the Grand Marshal Boat during each night of the parade.
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THE LINE-UP
SPIRIT OF THE BOAT PARADE’S PAST
DEC. 15, 2021 Local Orange County Olympians Grand Marshals: Kaleigh Gilchrist, Jack Williams, Phillip and Ryan Chew, Sakura Kokumai, Janie Reed, Alex Wolf, Dejah Mulipola, Katie McLaughlin
A LOOK BACK AT THE HISTORY OF THE NEWPORT BEACH CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE
DEC. 16, 2021 The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade began at the turn of the century. John Scarpa, an Italian gondolier, and Joseph Beek, a developer of Beacon Bay, the Balboa Ferry Line and the principal force in the early development of Balboa Island, arrived in the Newport Harbor area over 100 years ago. These two men established what was then called the Tournament of Lights, an event that would continue for the next century and become a cherished tradition.
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In later years, the Beek family came to the front again and provided one of their ferryboats for the floating Christmas tree celebration. Gradually, each year, other lighted boats fell in line behind the city employees’ floating tree. Soon the Tournament of Lights turned into a festive Christmas celebration for all to enjoy. Down the road, the Ring of Lights home decorating competition began and still serves as a colorful backdrop to the parade. Dozens of homes along the parade route feature over-the-top holiday decorations with new buildouts, moving displays and thousands of lights from roof to ground. Today the Tournament of Lights, now called the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, features as many as 100 boats. The parade is proudly hosted by the Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce and is hailed as “one of the top ten holiday happenings in the nation” by The New York Times. The parade is now the premier event of the holiday season in Southern California.
Hospitality Hero Grand Marshal: Erin Snider, Newport Beach Marriott Hotel & Spa A NIGHT TO REMEMBER • The first lighted boat parade took place on… July 4, 1908
AN EVOLUTION • Today, the Tournament of Lights is now called... The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade.
PARTICIPATE IN THE PARADE • If you’d rather take part in the fun than watch on the sidelines, it’s not too late! Register online at www. christmasboatparade. com to participate in either the Boat Parade or the Ring of Lights competition.
DEC. 17, 2021 Local Heroes Newport Beach Police Department, Newport Beach Fire Department and Newport Beach Lifeguards Grand Marshals: Police Chief Jon Lewis, Detective Jonathan Jarema (2020 Police Officer of the Year - awarded posthumously), Fire Chief Jeff Boyles, Captain Kevin Tiscareno (2020 Firefighter of the Year), Captain Mike Mullen (2021 Firefighter of the Year), Hayden Paul (2020 Lifeguard of the Year), Andy White (2021 Lifeguard of the Year), EMS Chief Kristin Thompson (2020 Civilian of the Year), Debbie Alcaraz (2021 Civilian of the Year)
DEC. 18, 2021 Local Organization Heart Global A non-profit organization that leads music and performance workshops worldwide.
DEC. 19, 2021 THE LIVE EVENT WILL INCLUDE: • The parade • The Ring of Lights home competition • Entertaining interviews with participants • Spotlights on the nightly Grand Marshals
Local Organization Corona del Mar High School Drumline One of the premier performing groups at Corona del Mar High School that serves as a musical ambassador, performing regularly in pep rallies as well as school and community events.
Photos - Visit Newport Beach
In 1907, Scarpa began the tradition of lighting boats by taking a group of visitors from Pasadena across the bay in a gondola decorated with Japanese lanterns. One year later, on July 4, 1908, the first lighted boat parade took place. Scarpa, along with his fellow small boat operators, put together a loosely organized affair consisting of nine vessels. The parade, illuminated by Japanese lanterns, was led by Scarpa’s gondola and followed by eight canoes. Thus, Scarpa has been credited with creating the first lighted boat parade.
Christmas tree. The barge was towed around the harbor while its passengers sang Christmas carols to residents on shore.
MAKING YOUR
SEASON BRIGHT GET IN THE SPIRIT AT THESE HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND DAZZLING DISPLAYS
Make new family traditions in one of the most festive towns in America: Newport Beach, California. You’ll discover everything you’re looking for to make your season bright. From the iconic Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade to extraordinary holiday displays, soak up all the magic and joy this holiday season.
SPREADING CHEER Corona del Mar Christmas Walk • The annual Corona del Mar Christmas Walk is a free event that offers fun for the entire family. From beer and wine gardens to children’s activities, take a stroll down PCH to take part in this festive community event. Mark your calendars for Dec. 5 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.cdmchamber.com
FAMILY FUN ON OPENING NIGHT Creative Communal Open-Air Market • Head to Marina Park on Dec. 15 from 4-8 p.m. for the first ever Creative Communal open-air market. There will be live music, gifts from local makers, good food and family fun all during the opening festivities of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. creativecommunal.com
MERRY EVERY THING Ring of Lights • If you’re looking for the best-decorated homes, head to Balboa Island for the annual Ring of Lights home competition. Homeowners are definitely in the holiday spirit in this quaint neighborhood with their glittering lights, dancing Christmas trees and animated roof-top scenes! www.christmasboatparade.com
FIREWORKS FOR ALL
ROCKIN’ AROUND Fashion Island’s Annual Tree Lighting
LIGHTING UP THE WATER Lighting of the Bay at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina
• A 90-foot-tall, white fir tree has made its way from Mount Shasta to Fashion Island in Newport Beach to officially launch the 2021 holiday season. This year, the tree will be lit every night at 5 p.m., and families can enjoy the coastal location and one-stop destination as Fashion Island is transformed into a holiday winter wonderland!
• On Nov. 26, Newport Dunes kicked off the holiday season with its 31st annual Lighting of the Bay. More than 40 holiday light displays and Christmas trees will light up the bay, offering a free event everyone will love. The dazzling display lasts through New Year’s Day.
www.fashionisland.com
www.newportdunes.com
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• On opening night, Dec. 15, there will be a fireworks display off the Newport Pier at approximately 6:15 p.m. And on closing night, Dec. 19, a special fireworks display will take place from the Balboa Pier.
Photos - Ring of Lights & Christmas Boat Parade: Bleu Cotton Photography | Sherman Library & Gardens | Fashion Island | Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina | Corona del Mar Christmas Walk
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Balboa Village Turning Marker Public Pier Locations Dine and Watch Location
DESTINATION START Tip of Lido Isle (CONTROL POINT A) Lido Isle Yacht Club Lido Isle Bend (LIDO WEST CHANNEL ENTRANCE) (CONTROL POINT B) Lido Isle Bridge (CONTROL POINT C) Tip of Lido Peninsula/Rhine Channel Marina Park Lighthouse Café American Legion Yacht Club 15th Street Beach 10th Street Beach Newport Harbor Yacht Club Bay Island Bridge Bay Island Channel (CONTROL POINT D) Newport Landing Restaurant Balboa Boat Rentals Newport Landing Sportfishing Balboa Pennisula Ferry Landing Balboa Fun Zone
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DESTINATION Harborside Restaurant (Balboa Pavilion) Catalina Passenger Service Davey’s Locker Peninsula Point Beach (CONTROL POINT E) Pirate’s Cove (CONTROL POINT F) Channel Reef Coast Guard (Harbor Master Dock) (CONTROL POINT G) Balboa Yacht Club Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club Balboa Island Bridge (CONTROL POINT H) Little Island Beach Little Island Point Balboa Island (South Bayfront/Grand Canal) Balboa Island Ferry Landing Collins Island (CONTROL POINT I) Balboa Island (North Bayfront) Balboa Island Bridge Newport Beach Yacht Club
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DESTINATION Harbor Island Tavern House Kitchen + Bar / PCH Bridge (CONTROL POINT J) Bay Shores Community Beach Balboa Bay Resort (CONTROL POINT K) Orange Coast College (Crew Base) Newport Boy Scout Sea Base Mariners Mile GuacAmigos Rusty Pelican Restaurant The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar (CONTROL POINT L) NOBU Circle Hook Fish Co. Lido Bottle Works HanaHaus Lido Park/Lido Bridge Via Lido North Genoa Beach FINISH Tip of Lido Isle
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THE BEST OF BOUTIQUE
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• This coastal town is home to several quaint and cozy boutique hotels. Book a stay at one of these properties for an authentic, local experience. www.visitnewportbeach.com/newport-beach-inns
HOME AWAY FROM HOME
• Book a house for the family in prime locations by the sea. Newport Beach’s luxury vacation rentals are the best way to get away from it all while staying close to the fun. www.visitnewportbeach.com/vacation-rentalsnewport-beach
THE RESORT AT PELICAN HILL LIDO HOUSE HOTEL
STAY THE NIGHT & SEE THE LIGHTS AFTER THE PARADE, STAY AT ONE OF THESE FESTIVE STAYCATION SPOTS
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Balboa Bay Resort • A front-row seat to the parade awaits at Balboa Bay Resort. Stay in a bay-view room, which is the perfect way to watch the parade in a private setting. Make 108 LOCALE MAGAZINE
a reservation at A+O Restaurant | Bar for a fun and relaxed outdoor setting to enjoy expertly smoked cocktails and delectable seafood dishes. www.balboabayresort.com
Lido House Hotel • With a stylish, Cape Cod aesthetic, Lido House is the ideal destination for a winter staycation. Head to Topside, their rooftop bar, for a bird’s eye view of the water, or walk to Lido Marina Village next door for bayside dining, supreme shopping and gorgeous harbor views. Lido House will make your season chic, merry and bright. www.lidohousehotel.com
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The Resort at Pelican Hill • Perched upon 504 acres of unrivaled coastal beauty, The
Resort at Pelican Hill always embraces the spirit of the season. From cheerful holiday decor to festive dining options, this five-star resort is the place to be. Enjoy lunch and dinner specials all season long! www.pelicanhill.com
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Newport Beach Marriott Hotel & Spa • Conveniently located near Fashion Island, Orange County’s premier shopping center, this modern staycation spot is a spectacular holiday getaway with panoramic views. Snag some last-minute gifts, take a stroll around
nearby Balboa Island and cozy up in your room. The Newport Beach Marriott Hotel & Spa provides everything you need for an enjoyable vacation. marriott.com/hotels/travel/ laxnb-newport-beachmarriott-hotel-and-spa
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Hyatt Regency Newport Beach • This iconic local resort is adjacent to the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and offers access to three unique pools, an executive golf course and luxury shopping. Located within minutes of Balboa Island, you can stroll through the Ring of Lights
(home decorating competition), then check out the parade. hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/ california/hyatt-regencynewport-beach/newpo
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Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas • Situated atop a bluff, this premium vacation ownership resort boasts stunning views of the sparkling Pacific. With convenient access to Newport Beach holiday destinations like Balboa Island, Fashion Island and even the beach, the whole family will be happy this season! www.marriott.com/hotels/ travel/laxnc-marriottsnewport-coast-villas
Photos - The Resort at Pelican Hill | Lido House Hotel | Balboa Bay Resort
Let the Boat Parade serve as a reason to book a holiday-inspired staycation in Newport Beach. Enjoy various festive events, shop for last-minute holiday gifts, explore delicious winter menus and much more. There is no better place to spend the holidays than in this beautiful oceanfront town!
BALBOA BAY RESORT
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DINNER WITH A VIEW 4 | Tacos & Tequila on the Bay
MAKING A LIST, AND CHECKING IT TWICE
• GuacAmigos is the ultimate destination for tacos, tequila and views of Newport Harbor. What better way to watch the boats float by than with a margarita in hand? www.guacamigos.com
1 | Best of Boutique Shopping
5 | Magic in the Air
• Head to Balboa Island, Balboa Village and Corona del Mar for holiday shopping at neighborhood boutiques. Stroll the streets with an ocean breeze and check everyone off your list this season!
• Dine dockside at Lido Bottle Works located at Lido Marina Village. Executive Chef Joel Gutierrez brings hyperlocal seasonal cuisine to Newport—a decadent winter menu awaits.
2 | Home for the Holidays • The Roger’s Gardens “Celebration of Christmas” Boutique will transport you back to memories of holidays at home. Discover curated collections of hand-painted glass ornaments from Europe, charming nutcrackers and whimsical Santas that sit alongside the beautifully designed signature garlands and wreaths. Traditional themes, contemporary elements, and a touch of Roger’s Gardens magic meet to create charming collections that elevate and inspire.
DOCK THE HALLS DINE, SHOP AND WATCH THE NEWPORT BEACH CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE AT THESE HOLIDAY HOT SPOTS
Over a dozen restaurants throughout Newport Harbor boast a front-row view of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade while offering seasonal and festive menus. Waterfront tables fill up early—start making your reservations today. While you’re out, check off some holiday shopping all around the city of Newport Beach. Happy holidays!
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www.lidobottleworks.com
What better way to watch the boats float by than with a margarita in hand?
www.rogersgardens.com
3 | Shop ‘Til You Drop • For all of your gifting needs, head to Fashion Island for curbside pickup, personal shopping or shopping by appointment. The Personal Shopping Style Suite is available for customized consultations at no cost—schedule an appointment on the Fashion Island website. www.fashionisland.com
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Photos - Balboa Island: Visit Newport Beach | Fashion Island | GuacAmigos: LEETAL Photo | Lido Bottle Works: Max Milla
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HOLIDAY DINING ALL MONTH LONG
KEEP IT CLASSIC
• There’s so much to love on Five Crown’s winter menu—from the prime rib to the beef steak neptune. Don’t forget to save some room for a yummy dessert! www.lawrysonline.com/five-crowns
MEET YOU AT MULDOON’S
• Serving Irish specialties since 1974, the always-festive Muldoon’s is back serving fanfavorites this season. Relax and dine in the outdoor courtyard with a whiskey in hand. www.muldoonspub.com
ROMANCE AT SUNSET
• Situated near the Newport Beach Pier is the prime, fine dining restaurant, 21 Oceanfront. Choose between fresh seafood and fine meat specialities. This romantic spot is a great location to watch the winter sunset over the ocean! www.21oceanfront.com
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6 | History on the Harbor • Harborside Restaurant is located on the first floor of the historic Balboa Pavilion and gives an almost eyelevel view of the water, offering prime seating for the parade over a festive dinner. Be sure to make a reservation! www.harborside-pavilion.com
Photos - Nobu: Brenda Winburn | Malibu Farm: Lee Walters | Circle Hook: Lido Marina Village | Harborside Restaurant & Balboa Boat Rentals: Visit Newport Beach
Waterfront tables fill up early—start making your reservations today. MALIBU FARM
7 | Village Charm • Dine and watch the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade at one of Lido Marina Village’s five waterfront restaurants: Circle Hook, Lido Bottle Works, Malibu Farm, Nobu or Zinque. There is something for everyone at this charming waterfront wonderland, from fish and chips and sushi to burgers and vegan coconut curry. www.lidomarinavillage.com
Pairing sweeping views and contemporary California fare, the evening will be as spectacular as the setting. 8 | Sips Up • The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is the perfect destination for wine connoisseurs. Pairing sweeping views and contemporary California fare, the evening is sure to be as spectacular as the setting. thewinerynewport.com
ON THE WATER 9 | Boats on the Bay • Rent your very own boat from Balboa Boat Rentals for a night to remember. You’ll have a front row seat to the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade! www.boats4rent.com
10 | Land of the Lights • Newport Landing Cruises has a robust schedule of opportunities to view holiday light displays during the week of the parade and throughout the month of December. www.newportlanding.com
11 | Gondola Adventure
CIRCLE HOOK
• Cruise the Christmas Boat Parade in a different way this year...in a gondola! These cruises include a non-alcoholic beverage, Christmas treats and a spectacular view of the parade. newportbeach.gondola.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 111
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2019 BOAT PARADE & RING OF LIGHTS WINNERS
2019 RING OF LIGHTS WINNERS:
AN INSIDE LOOK AT WHO DAZZLED DURING THE LAST PARADE
2019 CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE WINNERS: BEST LIGHTS
HUMOR AND ORIGINALITY
A N I M AT I O N & S P E C I A L E F F E CT S
SWEEPSTAKES: BEST OVER ALL Shirley Pepys 526 S Bay Front, Balboa Island LIGHTS AND ANIMATION: 1ST PLACE Dennis and Patty Vitarelli 140 S Bay Front, Balboa Island LIGHTS AND ANIMATION: 2ND PLACE John and Essie Bootsma 128 Via Lido Nord, Lido Isle
1ST PLACE Titus • Jack Suddarth
1ST PLACE The Rose Maria • Ron and Rose Cram
2ND PLACE Alure • Lance Charlesworth
2ND PLACE Seaswirl 2600 • Steve Shimahara
3RD PLACE Valor • American Legion Yacht Club
3RD PLACE Sea Schooner • Travis Petty
1ST PLACE The Last Hurrah • Rob Meadows and Cathleen Vick
BEST THEME Bill and Maria Uncapher 335 E Bay Front, Balboa Island
2ND PLACE Seas the Day • Michael Lohman
CHAIRMAN’S CHOICE Phil and Mary Lyons 36 Harbor Island, Harbor Island
3RD PLACE Relentless II • Jerome Shilo
BEST TR ADITIONAL LIGHTS Janet Curci 808 S Bayfront, Balboa Island “GREEN” ENTRY AWARD Bruce and Viviana FaBrizio 1407 Bayside Dr, Corona del Mar PHOTOGR APHER’S CHOICE Jim and Judy Busby 111 E Bay Front, Balboa Island HUMOR AND ORIGINALITY Marcy Cook 538 S Bay Front, Balboa Island
SWEEPSTAKES: THE BILL LUSK AWARD El Navegante • Jimmie Roblero (SASCO)
BEST SAILBOAT Traveler • Michael Lawler
BEST FIRST-TIME ENTRY Zodie • Daniel Mehaignerie
ROOKIE AWARD Craig and Jamie Atkins 928 Via Lido Nord, Lido Isle BEST ON LIDO Dave McIntyre (SASCO) 101 Via Lido Soud, Lido Isle FOUNDER’S AWARD Robert Olson 351 E Bay Front, Balboa Island STUNEWS AWARD Matthew Thomas 409 E Edgewater, Balboa Peninsula
SWEEPSTAKES: NON-COMMERCIAL Paradise Found • Greg and Nor Killingsworth
BEST BOAT UNDER 30 FEET Two Are Better Than One • Kyle Miller
BEST YACHT CLUB ENTRY Fantail (Balboa Yacht Club) • Paul Fruchbom
HI TECH CHRISTMAS CHARM Jim and Peggy Rich 802 S Bay Front, Balboa Island BEST ON PENINSULA Steve Sarkisian 1006 E Balboa Blvd, Balboa Peninsula
BEST POWERBOAT My Way • Les and Marilyn Davidson
BEST MUSIC Light the World • The Church of Jesus
YACHT CLUB WITH MOST ENTRIES Balboa Yacht Club
Christ of Latter Day Saints To view photos of all Parade and Ring of Lights Winners over the past several years, visit www.christmasboatparade.com 112 LOCALE MAGAZINE
JUDGE’S AWARD: 2ND PLACE Jeanne Lewand 343 E Bay Front, Balboa Island BEST YACHT CLUB Balboa Yacht Club (BYC) 1801 Bayside Dr, Corona del Mar
Photos - Bleu Cotton Photography
JUDGE’S AWARD: 1ST PLACE Geoff Wickett and Norm Lessard 309 E Bay Front, Balboa Island
foodie
PHOTO BY: Audrey Ma • VALLE 222 N Pacific St, Oceanside, CA 92054 | 866.723.8906 | www.valleoceanside.com
December 2021 /// innovative. al fresco. in-season.
Oceanside
125 Feature
Feast Your Eyes San Diego’s Burgeoning Culinary Scene Is a Force to Be Reckoned With
LOCALE MAGAZINE 115
foodie /// living like a local
Vegging Out Matthew Kenney Gives Us the 411 on the Plant-based Food Scene
Los Angeles NAME: Matthew Kenney JOB TITLE: CEO of Matthew Kenney Cuisine
3 FAVORITE INGREDIENTS TO COOK WITH:
RESIDENT OF: Los Angeles
1. Avocados 2. Fresh Pasta 3. Local Produce
LOCAL LIVING: 10 years
A WAY OF LIFE
I have been plant-based for over 20 years, so it became more and more difficult to not bring this way of living into my work—long before most people understood it. Everyone thought I was crazy at the time, but it’s become totally mainstream.
“What we do at MKC has a massive global impact. With restaurants around the world, a culinary academy and several products and partnerships, I feel that we are able to truly make a difference and create a more sustainable, plantbased future.”
EXCITING THINGS TO COME
Ò I’m really looking forward to so much in 2022, as we are launching new products and partnerships worldwide. Locally, we are opening a third location of Sestina as well as a Latin-American concept called Oleada Cocina.
MATTHEW KENNEY CUISINE www.matthewkenneycuisine.com @matthewkenneycuisine
www.matthewkenneycuisine.com/oleada matthewkenneycuisine.com/sestina-la
www.matthewkenneycuisine.com/plantfood-wine-venice
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DINING DOWNTOWN
Ò My favorite restaurant to go to has been Damien—Enrique Olvera’s restaurant in DTLA. When I go, I order literally everything on the menu that is vegan, including the celery root, which I love. www.damiandtla.com
DOWN SOUTH
Ò My favorite place to go for a quick getaway is the Viceroy in Cabo. I love the design—I work best in a clean, modern space, and the food is great. I go on a working getaway: rest, relax and catch up on sleep and work. www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/loscabos
BEST BITES IN THE WORLD
Ò My favorite restaurant changes depending on my tastes and the seasons, but I really love Cosme in New York City right now (located in the Flatiron District). This sleek Mexican spot features a big bar, shareable plates and some amazing tequila and mezcal cocktails. www.cosmenyc.com
Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar
SEASONALLY CRAFTED
Ò I don’t know if I can choose one of my restaurants as a favorite, as I love them all so much. I suppose, however, I would have to say Plant Food + Wine in Venice is amazing. Everything from the food to the atmosphere is perfect.
foodie /// living like a local
Southern Flair Nora Tatum, Owner of In the Kitchen, Shares Her Favorite Bites Around Town
Long Beach NAME: Nora Tatum JOB TITLE: Owner of In the Kitchen
3 FAVORITE DISHES TO COOK:
RESIDENT OF: Long Beach
1. Oxtails 2. Mac and Chicken 3. Catfish
LOCAL LIVING: 3 years
TREATING YOU LIKE FAMILY
At In the Kitchen, everything is prepared fresh to order. We offer nothing but Southern hospitality—excellent customer service. We have a genuine love for our community and passion for food. Our environment is like home.
“This community cares about one another. We’re all reaching out to help however we can.”
SAY CHEESE
SEA TO TABLE
Ò I love eating at Big Catch Seafood House in Long Beach. I absolutely love seafood. I typically order the crab boil, which has Cajun seasoning with sausage and shrimp. site.bigcatchlongbeach.com
IN THE KITCHEN 900 Long Beach Blvd Long Beach, CA 90813 562.676.4106 @inthekitchenlbc
TASTE OF MEXICO
Ò Los Compadres in Long Beach is my favorite small-business restaurant to support. They serve delicious, authentic Mexican food for a great price! The atmosphere feels like you’re in Mexico and they have a full bar if you’re in the mood for a drink! www.loscompadreslbc.com
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SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD
Ò Lure Fish House in Santa Barbara is my favorite restaurant to visit in California. They feature the freshest sustainable seafood from trusted sources and have the most delicious grilled oysters that I’ve ever experienced. Prepare for an upscale evening! www.lurefishhouse.com
INSPO IN THE KITCHEN
Ò My mom is definitely my inspiration for cooking. She knows how to bring family and friends together with food. She’s the reason that I enjoy home cooking, and I think about her most when I’m in the kitchen.
Photographed By: Rachel Hoops | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar
Ò One of my favorite things to cook for the holidays is mac and cheese—my family loves it! I use elbow noodles and prepare it with three different cheeses. After bringing it to a boil, I add vegetables and broiled chicken pieces and also include a cream sauce with fresh-grated cheddar cheese. Then, I bake it for about 25 minutes. When it’s done, I add a generous amount of sharp cheddar on top and place it back in the oven until the cheese melts and has a light-brown coating.
Bar Cart Essentials
foodie /// trending
Season’s Drinkings IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE...COCKTAILS! WRITTEN BY: KAYLIN WAIZINGER PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ARI MOSHAYEDI
Drink Name: Cielo Rojo INGREDIENTS: • 2 parts Milagro Silver Tequila • ½ part Ginger Hibiscus Syrup (Dried Hibiscus, Fresh Ginger, Sugar) • ½ part Fresh Lime Juice • 1 part Fresh Mandarin
INGREDIENTS: • 2 parts Tullamore D.E.W. Original • 3 parts Americano or Cold Brew Coffee • 1 part Demerara Sugar • 2 parts Cream • Nutmeg RECIPE: • Pour Tullamore D.E.W., hot coffee and demerara sugar into an Irish coffee glass. Shake double cream in a shaker until thickened before layering over the drink. Garnish with a grating of nutmeg and enjoy!
$14.99 VISKI www.viski.com
Gold Tokyo Jigger $20 COCKTAIL EMPORIUM www.cocktailemporium.com
Drink Name: Mulled Harvest Cider INGREDIENTS: • 1½ parts Hendrick’s Gin • ¼ part Honey • 2 parts Apple Cider • 2 parts Spicy Ginger Tea • Orange Twist • Cinnamon Stick RECIPE: • Gently heat the first three ingredients in a saucepan. Then, add two parts spicy ginger tea. Serve warm in a tankard or teacup, and garnish with an orange twist and cinnamon stick.
Handblown Recycled Cocktail Mixing Glass $34.99 PIÑA BARWARE www.pinabarware.com
Steel Cocktail Strainer $8.99 OXO www.oxo.com
2-Piece Cocktail Shaker MILAGRO TEQUILA www.milagrotequila.com TULLAMORE D.E.W. www.tullamoredew.com HENDRICK’S GIN www.hendricksgin.com 120 LOCALE MAGAZINE
$43.95 THE CRAFTY BARTENDER www.thecraftybartender.com
Photos - Cocktail Mixing Glass: Piña Barware | Cocktail Shaker: Überbartools | Bar Spoon: www.truebrands.com | Strainer: OXO
RECIPE: • Combine juices and Milagro Silver Tequila in a shaker. Shake and pour over fresh ice. Float the syrup on top, and garnish with a lime wheel.
Drink Name: Tully Irish Coffee
Winter is in full swing, which means it’s time to break out the glasses and stir up some holiday cheer! Whether you prefer hot cider or creamy Irish coffee, there’s no better time to put your bartending skills to the test. But before you start muddling, shaking and stirring, we’ve drummed up three drink recipes that’ll take your hosting game to the next level. Cheers to crafty cocktails and a cozy winter season!
40cm Gold Weighted Bar Spoon
foodie /// behind the brand
LET’S GET
This Bread This San Francisco Hot Spot Has Officially Landed in LA WRITTEN BY: ALLIE LEBOS PHOTOGRAPHY BY: JASON DIXSON AND DYLAN + JENI
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What started off as a fun backyard project 11 years ago in San Francisco has now turned into one of the most beloved delis in the Bay Area. And good news for LA locals: the popular and tasty SF icon, Wise Sons Jewish Deli, has made its debut in none other than up-and-coming Culver City. “We got the idea while making pastrami from scratch in my backyard,” explains Evan Bloom, founder of Wise Sons Jewish Deli. “We had this ideal pastrami sandwich in mind, but we weren’t able to find it anywhere in San Francisco, so we gave it our own shot and it grew.” Though they opened their San Francisco storefront in 2011, the Culver City location just opened in August 2021. “I grew up in Southern California, so I wanted to open a deli a little closer to home,” explains Bloom. “LA just seemed like the next best step.” From their famous pastrami reuben that features real Jewish rye, which is double-baked for an optimal crispy texture,
to their authentic potato latkes, you are sure to find all of your feel-good favorites here. “We believe that a sandwich should always be greater than the sum of its parts,” explains Bloom. “We make almost everything ourselves, and when we can’t make it, we source the very best that we can.” While their sandwiches are great for lunch, they also serve a solid breakfast, such as their pastrami breakfast burrito and their legendary bagels, which are baked fresh daily. When it comes to running the deli, Bloom seems to have truly found his calling. “I’m a very impatient person by nature,” he says with a laugh. “That being said, I love that there is something different to deal with every day. There are always new problems to solve, whether they be financial or culinary, and solving these problems is what keeps me going.” Having built a loyal fan base in San Francisco, Bloom and his cofounders are thrilled to bring their premium sandwiches and Kosher-friendly dishes to Culver City and beyond.
Culver City
Dinner + Drinks at the Deli
» Wise Sons Jewish Deli is currently in the process of rolling out a dinner menu at their Culver City location. They will also soon be able to serve beer and wine!
“We make almost everything ourselves, and when we can’t make it, we source the very best that we can.” —Evan Bloom
Goodbye Gluten
» Though their rye bread and traditional bagels are to die for, Wise Sons also offers some amazing gluten-free bagels on the down-low for those in need. WISE SONS JEWISH DELI 9552 Washington Blvd Culver City, CA 90232 424.298.8205 www.wisesonsdeli.com
122 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Quality Is Key
Evan Bloom
Founder of Wise Sons Jewish Deli
» All of the deli’s pastrami and corned beef is made with beef brisket that is never treated with hormones or antibiotics, meaning you can feel good about eating good.
Photos - Ember and Rye: Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa | Valle: Audrey Ma | Callie: Lucianna McIntosh Photography | Westerly Public House: Jim Sullivan | Wolfie’s Carousel Bar: James Tran | Adelaide: Kathryn Barnard | Camino Riviera: James Tran | Seneca Trattoria: CH Projects
foodie /// feature
FEAST YOUR EYES San Diego’s Burgeoning Culinary Scene Is a Force to Be Reckoned With
WRITTEN BY: KAYLIN WAIZINGER AND TAYLOR GORSKI
When it comes to extraordinary dining experiences, many point to the City of Angels. And don’t get us wrong—Los Angeles is undoubtedly an epicenter for marvelous eats. But, it turns out LA isn’t the only West Coast city with a burgeoning culinary scene. It’s sister down south, San Diego, may be known for its fish tacos and craft beer (and surfer bros with unkempt hair), but don’t be fooled by its laidback reputation. With a host of phenomenal chefs and renowned restaurateurs, “America’s Finest City” continues to shape Southern California’s culinary landscape with its avantgarde approach. From a Roman-style rooftop restaurant to a revolving cocktail bar that resembles a carousel, we proudly present the hottest spots to dine in San Diego. LOCALE MAGAZINE 125
foodie /// feature
Oceanside Oceanside
» Plant-based is in, and The Plot in the up-and-coming city of Oceanside is a must-stop if you’re in search of a farm-to-table meal. With an exclusively plant-packed menu and a zero-waste ethos, this all-day restaurant is dedicated to “making badass food with plants.”
REDUCE AND REUSE
» The Plot recently announced a partnership with reVessel, a sustainable food-storage solution, to eliminate wasteful take-out packaging. The restaurant proudly offers guests reusable, toxin-free and eco-friendly containers, along with a simple swap process! THE PLOT Oceanside www.theplotrestaurant.com
BELOW-THEBORDER BITES Located in Oceanside’s all-new Mission Pacific Hotel, Valle features authentic Valle de Guadalupe cuisine with dishes ranging from upscale to surf-casual. Chef Roberto Alcocer’s vision for this waterfront venue was artfully brought to life, offering guests a seafood-focused, farm-to-table dining experience like no other. Patrons can expect everything from flavor-forward cocktails like the Hecate (mezcal, Cointreau, beet juice and fresh lemon) to plates like the Taco de Abulon—an artful presentation of Baja farmed abalone, nixtamalized corn tortilla, fermented habanero and roasted cauliflower. In terms of decor, Alcocer says, “I could take you all the way through the restaurant and tell you where the inspiration came from—the copper bar, the archway, the paintings, the art on the walls—they’re all Valle de Guadalupe-inspired.” VALLE 222 N Pacific St Oceanside, CA 92054 866.723.8906 www.valleoceanside.com 126 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Chef Roberto Alcocer’s vision for this waterfront venue was artfully brought to life, offering guests a seafood-focused, farm-to-table dining experience like no other.
Photos - Valle: Audrey Ma | The Plot: Kimberly Motos, Sam Wells & Israel Palacio
GOIN’ GREEN
foodie /// feature
San Diego San Diego
The dining room draws inspiration from Chef Swikard’s skateboarding memories around San Diego, and the bar is undoubtedly reminiscent of a perfect California wave at golden hour.
A-ROUND OF DRINKS
CALLIE 1195 Island Ave San Diego, CA 92101 619.255.9696 www.calliesd.com 128 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Light, Bright and Bold
• Serving “cuisine du soleil,” or cuisine of the sun, Callie continues to tantalize taste buds with dishes like squid ink bucatini, harissa grilled lamb chops and beef tartare.
Riding the Wave
• Upon entering, guests are greeted by a “goldenhour wave,” constructed of raw glulam beams, suspended above the restaurant’s Stonclad cocktail bar.
WOLFIE’S CAROUSEL BAR 2401 Kettner Blvd, Ste B San Diego, CA 92101 619.255.7533 www.wolfiescarousel.com
Photos - Callie: Lucianna McIntosh Photography | Wolfie’s Carousel Bar: James Tran
Greek for “the most beautiful,” Callie offers a stunning setting to enjoy bold Mediterranean dishes created by Chef Travis Swikard. The dining room draws inspiration from Chef Swikard’s skateboarding memories around San Diego, and the bar is undoubtedly reminiscent of a perfect California wave. The warm tones make it a welcoming East Village destination for a feelgood night out. Try the avocado labneh, Japanese kanpachi, harissa grilled lamb chops and aleppo chicken for a burst of delightful flavors. Pro tip: check out the Dali Room, a sophisticated private dining area that accommodates up to 18 guests, for a five-course Mediterranean dinner experience.
CUISINE DU SOLEIL
Marrying Parisian glamour and French Quarter fare, Wolfie’s Carousel Bar in Little Italy is the cocktail experience of the century. Fantasy and fun come to life at this 2,500-square-foot restaurant and bar—the latest project by husband-and-wife duo Mauricio and Gillian Couturier. With one step inside, guests are transported to a whimsical wonderland that closely resembles the mystique of Hotel Monteleone’s famous Carousel Bar & Lounge in New Orleans. And while the restaurant itself is a feat of engineering, the retro merry-go-round cocktail bar in the center has proven to be the real draw. Making a full rotation every 14 minutes, Wolfie’s Carousel allows guests to sip back, relax and enjoy the ride of their lives.
foodie /// feature
Hillcrest
Del Mar
BRING ON THE BUBBLY
PHONES OUT!
» When we say ‘Grammable, we mean it. Breakfast & Bubbles has been given a decidedly pink makeover—complete with playful pops of green, draping florals and plush velvet seating.
If you’re dining in San Diego, you want ocean views. Adelaide at L’Auberge Del Mar has you covered with beautiful scenery in an upscale yet unpretentious setting. Take a seat in the restaurant’s plush chairs as you overlook the waves and the property’s pool. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served here with an emphasis on sustainable seafood. Feel that cool, salty breeze as you sip your chardonnay and snack on plates like ahi poke, Italian burrata, beef tartare and crispy Pacific octopus. With an elevated approach to coastal California dining and ocean views that’ll sweep you off your feet, it’s safe to say Adelaide does not disappoint. ADELAIDE 1540 Camino Del Mar Del Mar, CA 92014 858.793.6467 www.laubergedelmar.com/dining/adelaide
130 LOCALE MAGAZINE
SEAFOOD AND SEASCAPES
BREAKFAST & BUBBLES Hillcrest www.breakfastandbubblessandiego.com
Rise and Shine
• Aside from sustainable seafood, Adelaide also serves breakfast starting at 7 a.m. every day. Guests can enjoy everything from fluffy buttermilk pancakes to chilaquiles and vegan overnight oats.
Night in Del Mar
• Book a romantic staycation at the newly remodeled L’Auberge Del Mar and head downstairs for a cozy meal overlooking the ocean at Adelaide! This restaurant is the pinnacle of modern fine dining.
Photos - Adelaide: Kathryn Barnard | Breakfast & Bubbles: Eckis Marketing
» In search of a trendy spot for brunch? Breakfast & Bubbles, located on the edge of University Heights and Hillcrest, is sure to cure your cravings and keep your ‘Gram lookin sharp! From beverage offerings like flights of prosecco to dishes like the Oreo French toast and short-rib eggs Benedict, you’re sure to fall in love with this hip new breakfast spot.
foodie /// feature
San Diego
San Diego
¡VAMOS A TULUM!
HOME SWEET ROME As you step into the elevator and head straight up to the 19th floor of the InterContinental San Diego, it’s quite unexpected what you’ll find. Open the double doors and step into a Roman trattoria that overlooks both the ocean and San Diego skyline. Sit in the dining room, which transports you to an old-school yet elevated Italian cruise ship, or out on the open-air rooftop under the striped green and white awning surrounded by plants and pops of pink. The tableside mozzarella is a must, along with the Calabrian sausage pizza, bucatini cacio e pepe and an espresso martini. The attention to detail throughout Seneca is immaculate— it’s a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget. SENECA TRATTORIA 901 Bayfront Ct San Diego, CA 92101 619.877.8642 www.senecatrattoria.com 132 LOCALE MAGAZINE
A Resume That Runs the Gamut
• Both Seneca Trattoria and The Reading Club are recent projects by prolific hospitality group Consortium Holdings, who also owns Raised by Wolves, The Invigatorium, Born & Raised, Youngblood and Morning Glory.
CAMINO RIVIERA 2400 India St San Diego, CA 92101 619.685.3881 caminoriviera.com
Photos - Seneca Trattoria: CH Projects | Camino Riviera: James Tran
Shhh...
• Located just above Seneca sits an exclusive, members-only rooftop club called The Reading Club. Available to just 400 members (who will have to apply), this posh venue features space for meetings and meditation, a library and listening room, plus pool and gym access.
From the owners of Kettner Exchange and The Grass Skirt comes Camino Riviera—a restaurant reminiscent of the tropical Caribbean coastline. A revamp of its predecessor, El Camino, Camino Riviera boasts a refreshed space filled with bohemian furnishings, sultry lighting and Tulum-inspired decor. This indooroutdoor restaurant celebrates the Yucatán coastline, paying homage to the region’s artistry and architecture. And with Corporate Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski at the helm, guests can expect a menu as fuego as the ambiance. Dishes range from roasted bone marrow and pork “quesa birra” bao to hamachi ceviche with avocado, tomato, radish, squid ink chicharron and yuzu pepper. Camino Riviera is not only a palate-pleaser, it’s a feast for all the senses.
foodie /// feature
East Village
Carlsbad
» The Invigatorium—a collaboration between Modern Times Beer and Consortium Holdings—is an out-ofthis-world coffee bar in San Diego’s East Village. Here, a wall of Post-it Note art depicts a fire-breathing Godzilla while a life-size velociraptor behind the bar peers down at patrons. The Invigatorium is the name, and outlandish is the game.
DON’T HATE, CAFFEINATE
» As far as the java goes, expect classic espresso drinks and pour-over service of Modern Times’ rotating single-origin coffees. There’s also cold brew on tap!
SMOKE ‘EM IF YOU GOT ‘EM As part of its $50-million renovation that took place last year, Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa recently added three dining concepts—one of them being new signature restaurant Ember & Rye. This sleek steakhouse concept was created in collaboration with Chef Richard Blais, which he likens to a “not-your-parents’ country club-meets-modern steakhouse.” Highlights of the restaurant include a well-stocked whiskey library, an open-air terrace with views of the Aviara Golf Course, an outdoor grilling station, fire pits and an enticing menu of vintage steaks, fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables. And with the meats prepared over an open, wood-fired flame, even the snootiest of carnivores are sure to love Ember & Rye. EMBER & RYE 7447 Batiquitos Dr Carlsbad, CA 92011 760.603.6908 www.parkhyattaviara.com/eat-drink/emberand-rye 134 LOCALE MAGAZINE
THE INVIGATORIUM East Village www.theinvigatorium.com
This sleek steakhouse concept was created in collaboration with Chef Richard Blais, which he likens to a “not-your-parents country club-meetsmodern steakhouse.”
Photos - Ember and Rye: Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa | The Invigatorium: Zack Benson & James Tran
WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE
foodie /// feature
Mission Valley
San Diego
» August of last year, Mission Valley welcomed Arlo—a fresh culinary concept at the Town and Country Resort that celebrates the culture and lifestyle of sunny San Diego. Spearheaded by Chef Josh Mouzakes, Arlo boasts a laid-back, breezy ambiance, highlighted by swaying palms, a sweeping patio and a giant outdoor fireplace.
INVENTIVE EATS
DIG IN DOWN UNDER Inspired by the similarities of sunny San Diego and the eastern coast of Australia, Westerly Public House is the place to head for quality coffee, craft cocktails and fresh cuisine. The interior is coastal-cool, oozing laid-back beach vibes. As far as the food, start with the Bloonin’ Mushrooms before moving on to the lamb ragu and finishing the evening off with a sweet butterscotch pot de creme. Located at The Monsaraz San Diego in Point Loma, this all-new, Aussie-inspired restaurant is the perfect spot for a casual open-air meal before exploring all that San Diego has to offer. WESTERLY PUBLIC HOUSE 1451 Rosecrans St San Diego, CA 92106 619.790.5700 www.westerlysd.com 136 LOCALE MAGAZINE
ARLO Mission Valley www.arlosandiego.com
Located at The Monsaraz San Diego in Point Loma, this all-new, Aussie-inspired restaurant is the perfect spot for a casual open-air meal before exploring all that San Diego has to offer.
» Diners can expect an assortment of creative, wood-fired dishes, including chickpea fries with harissa aioli, grilled pork belly, Baja-inspired ramen, chai parsnip soup and more.
Feast for the Eyes
• Westerly Public House features a 4,000-square-foot courtyard where cleancut design intersects with vibrant charm. From the deco-style tiling to the colorful mural by Betty Larkin Design Studio, this Cal-Aussie restaurant is sure to please.
Mark Your Calendar
• With a variety of events on the calendar—from trivia nights to DJ brunches—locals will love the sense of community at this Point Loma hotspot. Be sure to follow @westerlypublichouse on Instagram to see what events are coming up!
Photos - Westerly Public House: Jim Sullivan and Robert Miller | Arlo: Town and Country Resort
HELLO, HOTEL CIRCLE!
foodie /// trending
Sippin’ Pretty COCKTAILS FROM THE KITCHEN AT THE MAYOR’S TABLE IS ELEVATING THE COCKTAIL EXPERIENCE IN NEWPORT BEACH WRITTEN BY: TAYLOR GORSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY: TIMOTHY KWON
a
A glass of fine wine or a classic margarita is great, but take date night to the next level with one-ofa-kind, innovative cocktails from The Mayor’s Table in Newport Beach. With six decadent options to choose from, Executive Chef Partner Riley Huddleston has created Cocktails From the Kitchen, crafting each cocktail in a unique vessel using unconventional ingredients. You can’t go wrong with ordering any of these creations, but the Psychedelic Sour is a stand-out delight. Made with absinthe drip, vanilla- and citrus-infused Woodford Reserve bourbon, lemon granita spearmint and RTC black tea, this crafty concoction is sure to please. Watch as the whiskey drips down and soaks into the blend of spices and flavor. Pair your drink with grilled Spanish octopus and crab carbonara to top off the evening, and be sure to sip your drink slowly from the small tasting cups to appreciate this psychedelic creation.
Newport Beach
MUST ORDER
PSYC HEDELIC SOU R
Out at Sea
» Other Cocktails From the Kitchen menu items include the Blowfish, Russian Doll, Spring Tonic, Lemon Meringue Pie and Golden Pear. You’ll definitely want to try more than one!
THE MAYOR'S TABLE 3300 Newport Blvd Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.662.6160 www.lidohousehotel.com 138 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Dining in History
» The Mayor’s Table sits on the site of the old City Hall. There are photos around the restaurant of former mayors!
Sailing Back to San Diego » Soon, SoCal residents will not
foodie /// behind the brand
need a passport to indulge in Chef Plascencia’s famous food! With plans to open a new restaurant in San Diego in the near future, those beloved flavors are making a return sooner than you may think.
Beyond a Cookbook » In addition to housing some of his
best recipes, Plascencia’s book, “The Soul of Baja,” goes beyond cooking and pays tribute to his home, family and loyal customers.
Favorite Restaurant? » “It’s kind of like children; they’re
all my babies,” Plascencia says with a laugh. “However, I love spending my time in Todos Santos, so I’m at Jazamango as often as I can be.”
More than a Margarita » While Plascencia has undoubtedly mastered
the art of food, don’t forget to treat your taste buds to one of his restaurants' delicious craft cocktails. Made from only the finest ingredients, your palate is sure to expand to new heights!
Javier Plascencia CHEF
Sabores de Baja CHEF JAVIER PLASCENCIA OFFERS AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO DINING IN MEXICO WRITTEN BY: ALLIE LEBOS
JAVIER PLASCENCIA www.chefjavierplascencia.mx/eng @javierplascencia 140 LOCALE MAGAZINE
f
From Ensanda to Todos Santos, Javier Plascencia is taking the restaurant scene by storm in Baja California, Mexico. After cooking professionally for more than 34 years, Plascencia has made a name for himself as one of the most innovative and creative chefs in Mexico. “I knew I wanted to become a chef since I was a little boy,” Plascencia says. “I started off at a young age helping out at my parents’ Italian restaurants in Tijuana, and that’s where I discovered my passion for cooking. Once I was older, I decided to go to culinary school in San Diego.” Since then, Plascencia has opened several successful restaurants in Baja California and Tijuana. “So much of my time is spent outside in nature, and that’s what I love,” he explains. “I try to ensure that all of my restaurants provide a full experience. Most of them are open-air and feature lush gardens, and we love to have an open kitchen that cooks with a lot of firewood for that authentic and
homegrown feel.” For example, at Plascencia’s renowned Animalón restaurant, guests have the option to dine under a 200-year-old oak tree or on a stunning boat that sets sail across the seas of Baja California Sur. When it comes to the food, Plascencia’s restaurants offer variety in flavor, but consistency in quality. “The menus are all different,” explains Plascencia, “and while the dishes themselves are different, they all maintain the same philosophy and style.” In addition to working closely with all of the fishermen in Baja California, he also prides himself in using the freshest local ingredients in everything he creates. Whether you’re driving down from San Diego for a long weekend or simply want to explore the fresh flavors that Mexico has to offer, stopping by one Plascencia’s restaurants will give you a true taste of the abundant and fruitful land of Baja California.
foodie /// feature
Photos - Birba: Audrey Ma | TRIO & El Patron: Nathan Cox | Chi Chi at Avalon Hotel: visitgreaterpalmsprings.com Greater Palm Springs CVB @visitgreaterps | Bar Cecil: Elevation Creative Agency
Palm Springs
Season’s Eatings
Palm Springs is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a sunny staycay. The region’s yearround sunshine, balmy nights and bustling outdoor dining scene might make you forget it’s even winter! But don’t worry—what Palm Springs lacks in winter vibes, it makes up for with its dreamy desert ambiance, which is why this season is the ideal time to wine and dine al fresco. With that said, we’ve rounded up 12 of our favorite restaurants on Palm Canyon Drive to dine at this season. Bon appétit!
Wine and Dine Your Way Through Winter on Palm Canyon Drive WRITTEN BY: MARSELA WARSHAW AND KAYLIN WAIZINGER
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1501 UPTOWN GASTROPUB
6
Cozy Places for a Cocktail SEYMOUR’S www.seymoursps.com TRUSS & TWINE www.trussandtwine.com
BIRBA
Birba » Birba brings Italian delicacies
to the desert, and we’re all for it. The entire space feels more like a swanky backyard than an upscale Italian joint, and that’s exactly what makes it so charming. With a wide selection of classic Italian dishes, desserts, wine and hand-crafted cocktails, this outdoor restaurant is the perfect winter date-night destination. What’s more romantic than dining beneath trees draped with twinkling lights, admiring the desert stars and sharing a tiramisu? www.birbaps.com
with a classic cocktail like the California Dreamin’—made with vodka, lemon juice, Grand Poppy liqueur and orange oils. www.workshoppalmsprings.com
Mr. Lyons » Nobody puts a modern
spin on a classic steakhouse like Mr. Lyons does. If steaks cooked to absolute perfection, fancy cocktails and candlelight are your jam, this is the place for you. Known for its beef Wellington and top-notch service, Mr. Lyons is the place to indulge in cozy cuisine in the desert.
www.eight4nine.com
Tac/Quila » Palm Springs’ Tac/Quila
does two things really well: tacos and tequila! The menu focuses on Jalisco-style bites and boasts an assortment of seafood-centric dishes that are sure to please any palate.
www.tacquila.com
1501 Uptown Gastropub » This new gastropub recently
took over the airy space designed by famed architect Chris Pardo. Whether you’re sitting on the patio, in a spacious booth or at the gold bartop, 1501 Uptown Gastropub is sure to impress. With an eclectic menu, an outof-this-world cocktail list and awe-inspiring architecture, it’s no wonder this new gastropub already has a major buzz around it. www.1501uptown.com
MOXIE PALM SPRINGS @moxiepalmsprings REVEL PUBLIC HOUSE www.revelps. com AMIGO ROOM www.acehotel. com/palmsprings TAC/QUILA
www.mrlyonsps.com
EIGHT4NINE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE SEYMOUR’S MR. LYONS MR. LYONS
Get Gifting
» Looking to get a little holiday shopping done? Visit The Shops At Thirteen Forty Five on Palm Canyon Drive for a variety of giftworthy items, including handmade pottery, Moroccan textiles, vintage clothing and a lush collection of cacti and succulents. This 14-shop collective has the desert-mod flare we all know and love! www.theshopsat1345.com 144 LOCALE MAGAZINE
haven, a foodie’s dream and the king/queen of ambiance. You’ll be hard-pressed to find design and decor like this anywhere in the desert. Not only that, the menu is out of this world with delightful dishes like corn and crab chowder and Mac and Cheese Lorraine. Enjoy your meal in the restaurant’s white-walled interior under the sparkling chandeliers or snag a seat on the patio for a dreamy evening under the stars.
And unlike other Mexican restaurants, this eatery boasts a contemporary, whimsical vibe with its olive-green chairs, red banquette booths and living wall full of lush greenery and exotic flowers. Nothing says Palm Springs like sipping margaritas under the desert stars.
BOOTLEGGER TIKI www.bootleggertiki.com
Workshop Kitchen + Bar » Once a 90-year-old movie
theater, this Uptown Design District eatery sources most of their ingredients within an hour of Palm Springs, certainly earning their farm-to-table good name. The industrialchic interior of Workshop Kitchen + Bar, combined with its laid-back patio surrounded by mountains, provides the ultimate Palm Springs al fresco experience. Toast to winter at this James Beard award-winning restaurant
Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge » Eight4Nine is a whimsical
WORKSHOP KITCHEN + BAR
Photos - Birba & Mr. Lyons: Audrey Ma | Workshop Kitchen + Bar & Seymour’s: Ella Merrill | Tac/Quila: Nathan Cox | Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge | 1501 Uptown Gastropub
foodie /// feature
5
Order This:
Scallop Crudo
Must-Try Dishes
MR. LYONS
Order This:
Pan-Rendered Duck Breast EIGHT4NINE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
Order This:
Diego’s Ratatouille BAR CECIL
Order This:
Order This:
Braised & Grilled Spanish Octopus
Pistachio Pesto Pizza
SANDFISH SUSHI & WHISKEY
BIRBA
TRIO
KREEM
5
Spots to Satisfy an After-Dinner Sweet Tooth BRANDINI TOFFEE www.brandinitoffee.com
SANDFISH SUSHI & WHISKEY
Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey » Sushi and a sunset? Yes,
please! Not only is Sandfish’s patio a prime spot to admire the sun setting behind the mountains, it’s the perfect place for a one-of-a-kind sushi experience. With Sandfish’s creative take on traditional sushi, its impressive collection of whiskey from all around the world and it’s Scandinavianstyle interior, you’re bound to have a delicious meal from start to finish.
www.sandfishps.com
TRIO » American food and Italian
heritage come together brilliantly at TRIO. The highenergy ambiance of this eatery makes it a stellar spot for a night out or for a casual afternoon date. Menu highlights include the prosciutto pizza, seasonal risotto and red wine-braised short rib. Take in views of the desert sky on the brightly colored patio or sit inside and 146 LOCALE MAGAZINE
admire the modern decor. Don’t forget to check out the mural on the side of the restaurant after your meal! www.triopalmsprings.com
El Patron » Celebrate the season with
tacos, tequila and a desert view at El Patron! This boutique, Baja-inspired restaurant is all about fresh ingredients and is committed to serving local produce, wild-caught seafood and hormone-free meats. Sip on a fresh pineapple tamarindo margarita, munch on some nachos and do some peoplewatching at this must-visit Mexican spot! www.elpatronps.com
EL PATRON
GELATO GRANUCCI www.gelatogranucci.com SHOP(PE) | ICE CREAM & SHOP www.icecreamandshop.com Peninsula Pastries @peninsulapastriesps KREEM www.ilovekreem. com GREAT SHAKES www.greatshakes. com
CHI CHI AT AVALON HOTEL
BAR CECIL
Bar Cecil » Named after Cecil Beaton
(a Renaissance-style artist, rebel and aristocrat), Bar Cecil features a modern French menu and an incredible cocktail variety, including drinks like the Cactus Slim, Calder Colada and Fifty-Dollar Martini. Among the menu highlights are the caramelized onion tart, steak and frites and Diego’s ratatouille. Spend an evening on the quaint patio or in the artsy interior of this glam 75-seat restaurant amid bold wallpaper and original artwork, including Andy Warhol’s 1979 “After the Party.” www.barcecil.com
Chi Chi at Avalon Hotel » If you prefer farmers market-
style eats, this chic eatery at the Avalon Hotel is the place to brunch in Palm Springs. Chi Chi’s balanced California menu is filled with fresh yet indulgent options like the lox bagel, lemon poppy seed French toast and cold-pressed juices. Not to mention, views of the sparkling pool and surrounding mountains might just be as “Palm Springs” as it gets. www.avalon-hotel.com/palmsprings/chi-chi
Norma’s at Parker Palm Springs » Located in the famous
Parker Palm Springs, Norma’s, the hotel’s colorful open-air terrace restaurant, is a stylish spot surrounded by palms. Honoring Palm Springs’ midcentury-modern vibe, Norma’s decor is bright, fun and oh-so-Instagrammable. Enjoy an American-style breakfast, lunch or dinner on the covered patio, and don’t leave without indulging in the Very Berry Brioche French Toast!
www.parkerpalmsprings.com/foodand-drink NORMA’S AT PARKER PALM SPRINGS
Photos - TRIO & El Patron: Nathan Cox | Sandfish Sushi & Whisky: Laura Perkins | Bar Cecil: Elevation Creative Agency | Norma’s at Parker Palm Springs: Bhadri Kubendran | Chi Chi at Avalon Hotel: visitgreaterpalmsprings.com Greater Palm Springs CVB @visitgreaterps | Kreem: Bianca Simonian
foodie /// feature
THIS FOR THAT
foodie /// versus
WRITTEN BY: BRITTANY LAWRENCE ILLUSTRATIONS BY: VICENTE MARTÍ SOLAR
We all do it. New year, new us, right? But how long do we actually stick to our New Year’s Resolutions of “eating healthier?” It can be so tempting to fall off the wagon and give into a craving. So to help you out, we’ve gathered better-for-you alternatives, so you don’t have to totally cut out the sweeter things in life!
5 BETTER-FOR-YOU SNACK SWAPS THAT WILL HELP YOU STICK TO YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
Grams of SUGAR
Calorie COUNT
2-5
550
Grams of SUGAR
39 Calorie COUNT
148 Calorie COUNT
SWAP:
350
BURGERS FOR VEGAN BURGERS
SWAP:
» Some nights, you just NEED a burger. Biting into a nice, juicy burger on a Friday night just screams that the weekend is upon us. But what if we tried something same-same but different from a heavy, redmeat meal? VEG’D, located in Costa Mesa, is a plantbased fast food restaurant—yes, with a drive-thru! You won’t even miss meaty burgers after sinking your teeth into one of their house-made vegan burgers. VEG’D www.getvegd.com
SODA FOR OLIPOP
Calorie COUNT
90
SWAP: STANDARD CORONA EXTRA WITH CORONA PREMIER
Calorie COUNT
580 Calorie COUNT
120
» Instead of a classic Corona Extra, swap it out for a Corona Premier! As opposed to a regular 12-ounce Corona Extra with 148 calories and 13 grams of carbs, a Corona Premier has only 90 calories and 2.6 grams of carbs. The only thing you have to lose in this swap is 0.6% less alcohol content, but that is worth the fewer calories and carbs. The best part is that you still get to enjoy the exceptionally smooth taste of a Corona!
» There is just something about cracking open a soda that is so refreshing. Whether it be the carbonation, the coldness or the flavor, it always hits the spot. Just as easily as you reach for a soda, you could be reaching for a better, prebiotic alternative like OLIPOP! For example, a standard 12-ounce can of Coke has 140 calories, 39 grams of sugar and 39 grams of carbs. Compare those facts to a 12-ounce can of Vintage Cola from OLIPOP: 35 calories, two grams of sugar and 12 grams of carbs. OLIPOP www.drinkolipop.com
Grams of SUGAR Grams of SUGAR
3
41
CORONA PREMIER www.coronausa.com
SWAP: ICE CREAM FOR PRESSED FREEZE » Ice cream—the cold temptation that whispers sweet nothings in your ear, begging you to come to the dark side. When the ice cream cravings come knocking, try a Pressed Freeze instead! This non-dairy version of your beloved frozen treat is plant-based and contains no refined sugar. With less than half the calories and carbs of normal ice cream, a Pressed Freeze is just the thing to curb that sweet tooth and not feel guilty about it. PRESSED www.pressed.com
*Disclaimer: All calorie counts and sugar information are an estimate or average. Please consult your doctor or nutritionist for what is best for your personal health.
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SWAP: FEELING REFRESHED
STRICTLY PLANT-BASED
» Not a beer person? Opt for a Corona Hard Seltzer, which, like a Corona Premier, is only 90 calories!
» If your New Year’s Resolution is to follow a vegan diet, we’re here to help! These are a few of our favorite vegan SoCal restaurants: Gracias Madre, Double Zero Venice, Seabirds Kitchen and Nic’s On Beverly.
CANDY FOR SMARTSWEETS » We have news for you: your sweet tooth can be satisfied without eating your favorite sugar-filled candy bar. Case in point, SmartSweets. With a variety of plant-based sweet and sour candies (we’re talking options comparable to peach rings, Swedish Fish and sour gummy bears), you actually can indulge! Each bag of candy has four grams of sugar or less. The less sugar, the less guilt! SMARTSWEETS www.smartsweets.com
shoppe December 2021 /// health. home. holidays.
Venice
162 Spotlight
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: Parachute Home | PARACHUTE HOME www.parachutehome.com | @parachutehome
Stay Cozy, My Friends Fill Your Space With Parachute’s Home Essentials to Stay Cozy All Season Long
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shoppe /// living like a local
She Came. She Saw. She Contoured. This CEO, YouTuber and Influencer Shares Her Favorite Spots to Shop and Sip in LA
Los Angeles NAME: Laura Lee JOB TITLE: YouTuber, Influencer and CEO
3 FAVORITE BEAUTY PRODUCTS:
RESIDENT OF: Los Angeles
1. Laura Lee Los Angeles Nudie Patootie Eyeshadow Palette 2. Jouer Lip Enhancer 3. Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
LOCAL LIVING: 7 years
GET THE DEETS
I have two businesses that I fully own. Laura Lee Los Angeles is my cosmetics company that I started in 2016. I also own a curated clothing boutique called Nudie Patootie that I started in September 2020.
IT’S A PASSION
Ò I love the creation of makeup, so I created Laura Lee Los Angeles. There is something so magical about the creative process and seeing an idea come to life. I really enjoy being an entrepreneur, but I felt a little limited since it’s a cosmetics company. So in 2020, I launched my curated boutique, Nudie Patootie, which has been so fun because I love fashion and creating different looks with our pieces.
LAURA LEE @larlarlee www.lauraleelosangeles.com www.shopnudiepatootie.com
www.lauraleelosangeles.com shopnudiepatootie.com
HOME SWEET HOME
Ò I love Goodies Los Angeles because everything in the store is under $25, and I always find the cutest on-trend home decor items. You are guaranteed to find something adorable with each in-store visit. They have two locations: one at Atwater Village and a new one in Santa Monica! www.goodies.la
LET’S GET A DRINK
Ò Mama Shelter is my favorite restaurant in LA because it’s located in the heart of Hollywood on the rooftop of a hotel that overlooks the entire city. They have huge lounge couches for people to relax and enjoy a cocktail, and they also have a large walk-up bar on the rooftop—it’s such a fun vibe at night! The food is organic, and my favorite thing to order is the Boujee Fries. www.mamashelter.com
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SHOPPIN’ FOR OTHERS
Ò The Gift Barn is a small boutique that curates gift boxes or baskets for almost any occasion. They make gift-giving fun and easy! The gift boxes are put together extremely well, and anytime I need to congratulate someone, this is the perfect place to curate a little present for them! www.shopthegiftbarn.com
CATCHING WAVES
Ò The Surfrider Malibu is a quaint hotel with a natural, minimalistic vibe that sits right on PCH across the street from the ocean. Head up to the rooftop to dine, where you can take in dreamy views of the waves and watch the surfers do their thing. The food and service are absolutely divine! www.thesurfridermalibu.com
Photographed By: Courtesy of Laura Lee | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar
“Every day is a new adventure with both businesses. They keep me busy yet so inspired.”
shoppe /// living like a local
Hidden Gems This Bling Queen Shines a Light on the Cutest Spots to Dine, Shop and Stay in OC
Newport Beach NAME: Michelle Verdult JOB TITLE: CEO of Winston’s Crown Jewelers & Winston’s Jewelers
3 HOLIDAY GIFTS I LOVE: 1. Diamond studs 2. A diamond eternity band 3. A luxury timepiece
RESIDENT OF: Newport Beach LOCAL LIVING: 30 years
GLAM FAM
I’m the woman behind all those BIG diamonds worn in Newport Beach. I love big, especially when it comes to diamonds! My passion is upgrading my clients’ diamonds or presenting that perfect, one-of-a-kind piece for that special occasion. “Go big or go home” is my motto, and in Newport Beach, everyone agrees!
“Celebrating life is one of my everyday priorities!”
JINGLE ALL THE WAY
WINSTON’S CROWN JEWELERS 100 West Coast Hwy, Ste 101 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.642.5000 www.winstonscrownjewelers.com
www.fashionisland.com
REFRESHED AND REJUVENATED
Ò Newport Beach Medspa is a small business I love supporting. They offer a variety of services like skin rejuvenation, Botox and cool sculpting, plus they now offer the new QWO cellulite treatment. I love that they have the latest and most cutting-edge medical technology available. The staff is very personable and highly trained, and they cater to all of my aesthetic needs. www.newportbeachmedspa.com
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ROLL WITH IT
Ò I have lots of places I like to eat in Orange County, but Sushi Ii has become my new favorite. I love the ambience— it’s like you’re literally in Japan. Always welcoming, Master Chef Susumu Ii’s omakase is always a treat. If you are a sushi snob like myself, Sushi Ii is definitely a must! www.sushi-ii.com
LAGUNA LOVE
Ò Laguna Beach is my favorite staycation spot in all of SoCal. Whenever my husband and I feel like we need a quick getaway, we always stay at the Montage. It is the perfect place for a romantic getaway—plus, I got married there, so it will always have a special place in my heart. www.montagehotels.com/lagunabeach
PASSION FOR FASHION
Ò Whenever I need that “go-to” dress for a special occasion, I know I will find something at Novecento Boutique in Crystal Cove. Malika always guides me to the perfect outfit for any event. She carries unique pieces from all over the world along with accessories to complete a perfect outfit. www.novecentofashion.com
Photographed By: Ari Moshayedi | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar
Ò My favorite place to shop for holiday gifts is at Fashion Island; it’s a onestop shop where I can find something for everyone. It’s also convenient and local, and I love that it’s outdoors. I look forward to finishing up my shopping and going for an appetizer and glass of wine at R+D Kitchen.
shoppe /// spotlight
On the Rise
Rob Riese Owner of The Rising Co.
Oceanside
OCEANSIDE’S THE RISING CO. IS A HUB FOR COMMUNITY, CREATIVITY AND CONNECTION
Julie Ellis Owner of The Rising Co.
WRITTEN BY: MICHELLE STANSBURY PHOTOGRAPHED BY: MARY CAROL FITZGERALD
Over the Years
» The Rising Co. building was a gas station in the 1930s, back when South Coast Hwy was called Hill St.
Behind the Name Oceanside’s The Rising Co. is a coastal community hub, a multi-use retail concept, coffee shop, coworking loft and events space that is designed to bring people together. Owners Rob Riese, Julie Ellis and their partners have created an ecosystem where the businesses within The Rising Co. combine to be something greater than the sum of its parts.
O
Ellis, who started the co-op in a small space in south Oceanside before partnering with Riese to bring it to its current location, explains, “To see a space where a dozen talented designers can continue their passions and grow is inspiring. Running a small business is hard, but it’s better when you get to work alongside other retail owners and help each other through those struggles.”
“The versatility of the space works because it reflects the community.”
THE RISING CO. 332 S Coast Hwy Oceanside, CA 92054 www.risingco.co @risingco
—JULIE ELLIS
“To see a space where a dozen talented designers can continue their passions and grow is inspiring…” —JULIE ELLIS
Riese explains why he was drawn to the concept: “We live in a fractured society, so we wanted to create a place where people can come and experience things together. One of the major trends that has happened in retail is that people shop online for convenience, but they shop in-person for the experience. Shopping at The Rising Co. entails everything from DIY projects to meeting with friends. We have 12 different designers and merchants who create products with purpose; they all fall under our overarching theme of trying to be good stewards of our community and our planet.” The Rising Co. is more than just retail and coffee. The community hub stays busy with a wide range of events like workshops, movies, workout classes and more to be a place for the community. “On
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» The “Co.” in The Rising Co. stands for community, co-op and coffee. The name also alludes to the aphorism, “a rising tide lifts all boats.”
Teaming Up
» Julie Ellis and her husband emptied their retirement accounts and took out a loan from her brother to be able to purchase The Rising Co. building with longtime friends, Rob and Jamie Riese and Steve and Cindy Blumkin.
Friday night, we might have a church group, on Saturday, we have a punk band playing and on Sunday, we have storytime for kids. The versatility of the space works because it reflects the community,” says Ellis. And just as Oceanside is experiencing a renaissance, The Rising Co. building has also undergone a dramatic renovation. Riese reflects, “We took this building that was literally falling down and turned it into a destination where people want to hang out. Back in the beginning, we had artists put murals on our building, and that really brought the space to life.” Daren Magee created a mural on the south side of the building, and Chris Mowgli Miyashiro’s art is on the north end. “To be a part of this very creative group is very special. It transcends the building to the people who are a part of it.”
shoppe /// how to make
NESTBOX SUPERTRAMP
Nest Egg 158 LOCALE MAGAZINE
EGOÉ www.egoe.eu/en
NESTBOX CAMPER
WITH INNOVATION AT THE FOREFRONT, THIS EUROPEAN BRAND DESIGNS PREMIUM OUTDOOR PRODUCTS WRITTEN BY: RAPHAEL MADRID PHOTOGRAPHY BY: JULIUS FILIP, DUSAN TOMANEK, JAN RYSAVY & DUSAN TOMANEK
NESTBOX CAMPER
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shoppe /// how to make
NESTBOX ROAMER
“European design is evident in our products. It’s these structures and lines that highlight our identity and our approach to the process…” —JASON KUIPER
t
There is nothing more frustrating in this consumer society than looking to purchase something specific that adds to your life but not being able to find it...anywhere. Egoé founders Radek Hegmon and David Karásek found this same dissatisfaction with outdoor furniture in stores, which allowed their irritation to breed innovation, leading them to create a collection that fit their needs. Fortunately, they were design students, and they used their experience and knowledge to create products with a natural combination of quality and utility. Egoé is a lifestyle brand born in the Czech Republic that designs and creates products for everything outside. From outdoor furniture and sporting goods to camping and public works infrastructure, Egoé is unafraid to break the status quo and is constantly looking into the future. The brand is a branch of the design studio “mmcité” and continues to design products that are simple, beautiful and durable.
The sole focus of the Egoé brand is to create collections refined to fit naturally within a given environment—minimal, clean and practical—but also with the desire to transform the concept of what it means to be outside. “European design is evident in our products. It’s these structures and lines that highlight our identity and our approach to the process… Our collections were built with intent without sacrificing the design,” explains Kuiper. Egoé’s umbrella of outdoor products focuses on the life, move and nest concepts, hoping to enrich the lives of people outdoors through purposedriven design and innovation. It is with this desire to innovate and cultivate life outdoors that granted them the
“Everything is built with intent...to be robust and high-quality, and to last a lifetime.”
NESTBOX TRAMP
—JASON KUIPER
NESTBOX HIKER
Over the years, the Egoé team has grown to roughly 300 when accounting for design, engineering, manufacturing, sales and marketing, reflecting their courage and spirit to break barriers and create products that go beyond just the aesthetics. They are eager to collaborate with external designers for new perspectives because for them, it’s about the human experience of finding value in the great outdoors. “These pieces and collections are meant to be used, not to be placed in a corner. Everything is built with intent...to be robust and high-quality, and to last a lifetime,” says Jason Kuiper, Egoé regional director for North America.
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LEVA HOME COLLECTION
LEVA HOME COLLECTION
brings a new kind of comfort to being outside. There are also similar collections that focus on modular builds for public areas like parks and outdoor workspaces, highlighting how contemporary outdoor space can be utilized in this changing post-lockdown climate. Representing Egoé’s move concept comes the Beat ski collection. Designed with the essence of ski mountaineering in mind, these skis depict a skier’s journey. Its award-winning graphic design of fluctuating heartbeats serve as an external presentation of one’s passion for their craft.
LEVA HOME COLLECTION LEVA HOME COLLECTION » This amazing collection features unique block-like modules that act as customizable structures for a sleek, modern outdoorliving experience. The Leva Home modular system is primarily constructed with wooden beams and galvanized steel parts that can be interchanged to fit the needs of the users.
prestigious “Red Dot Design” award in 2021, honoring three products/ collections for their sophistication, detail and unconventionalism. Within their life concept, Egoé has several collections of outdoor seating and dining, but there’s one unique collection that stands above the rest. The Leva Home modular collection was designed to transform an outdoor locale into a tranquil “interior” space. Its modular cubic design offers a wide range of possibilities. With variable formats, including kitchen and dining, lounging and children’s play areas, the Leva design
Egoé’s next award-winning concept was born from Hegmon’s dissatisfaction with mobile outdoor-living spaces. Finding no RV that would fit the specific outdoor lifestyle he sought out, the Nestbox was created. This mobile modular concept eliminates the need to purchase an RV by transforming your vehicle’s backseat and trunk space into a comfortable camper specifically designed to fit your needs. It has sets featuring a gas stove, sink space and a sleeping area. With a welded steelframe base and a meticulously crafted design, it can withstand everything the outdoors brings. The Nestbox is definitely a game-changer now that more people have more expressed freedom from the traditional workplace. What really separates Egoé from other lifestyle brands is most notably their willingness to break through convention and develop products from ideas that seem both familiar and brand new at the same time. While Egoé is just tapping into the US market, concepts like the Leva and Nestbox mark a beautiful sunrise into what is sure to be a household name in the coming years.
BEAT TOURING SKIS » The first touring skis from Egoé were inspired by the timeless look of ‘90s ski culture and designed with the spirit of mountaineering in mind. While being some of the lightest skis on the market, they are still robust enough to ride into a safe descent.
MOJA COLLECTION » This collection of outdoor seating does not sacrifice comfort for durability—in fact, they fall in sync to create a round of armchairs and sofas that are good enough for indoor use but are built to withstand the elements of the great outdoors.
BARKA COLLECTION » Mundane and outdated does not have to be the first thing you think of when considering the concept of public benches and outdoor lounge seating. Egoé’s Barka collection throws it all out the window, with furniture that allows for true rest and relaxation under the shade of trees. LOCALE MAGAZINE 161
shoppe /// spotlight
Stay Cozy, My Friends FILL YOUR SPACE WITH PARACHUTE’S HOME ESSENTIALS TO STAY COZY ALL SEASON LONG WRITTEN BY: TAYLOR GORSKI PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: PARACHUTE Like a Local » “I grew up in
Ariel Kaye Founder and CEO, Parachute Home
Where It All Started » “Before
launching Parachute, I spent a decade working in advertising and brand development in New York. I was also a huge design enthusiast—I had an interior design blog, and I frequently helped my friends and family decorate their homes,” says Kaye.
‘Tis the season for spending time at home with loved ones! California-based lifestyle brand, Parachute, offers home-goods essentials—bedding, robes, loungewear, decor and furniture—to make your home a warm and restful place during the holidays (and yearround). “We have all the pieces needed to create a beautiful guest bedroom oasis, and our robes are the perfect holiday gifts—they are the ultimate in relaxation!”
says founder and CEO Ariel Kaye. Purchase your luxurious yet affordable Parachute goods online or at one of the 12 brick-andmortar shops across the country. The minimalistic and modern design of Parachute products fit exceedingly well with all types of home decor...and with one touch of these products, you’ll realize you need just about everything they sell.
PARACHUTE HOME Silver Lake, San Francisco, Venice, Pasadena www.parachutehome.com | @parachutehome 162 LOCALE MAGAZINE
“Creating something that people care about and that has an impact is my favorite part of being an entrepreneur.” —ARIEL KAYE
Los Angeles. After spending 10 years in New York, I returned to LA to launch Parachute. I currently reside with my family on the west side. Parachute is largely inspired by nature and the beautiful California landscape; I’m constantly drawn to the natural beauty of the coast as well as the earthy tones of the desert,” explains Kaye.
shoppe /// gift guide
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE /// 2021
A HOLLY, JOLLY HOLIDAY SIMPLIFY YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING WITH THESE 26 SOCAL-INSPIRED GIFT IDEAS
LOCALE MAGAZINE 165
shoppe /// gift guide
2 Escape CBD Drops $39.99 for 10ml
WILD BY NATURE wildbynaturecbd.com
FOR THE STOCKINGS
1 Pura Smart Device
$44 for Pura | Fragrance prices vary PURA www.trypura.com
HUNG BY THE CHIMNEY
Hey Dewy Wireless Facial Humidifier $49.95
HEY DEWY www.heydewy.com
3
5
Bedsure’s Silk Pillowcase and Eye Mask Set
Classic Turkish Cotton Slipper
$32.99
BEDSURE www.amazon.com
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$39
PARACHUTE HOME www.parachutehome.com
Photos - Pura | Wild By Nature | Bedsure Home | Hey Dewy | Parachute Home
4
Photo Provided By: Cann Social Tonics
shoppe /// gift guide
6 Blood Orange Cardamom Cann $20 for six
CANN SOCIAL TONICS www.drinkcann.com
FOR THE
ADULTS ONLY 168 LOCALE MAGAZINE
shoppe /// gift guide
7 Trek Anorak Jacket $109
CLEO HARPER www.cleoharper.com
8
9
Eska Bralet
WHOOP 4.0
$54
CLEO HARPER www.cleoharper.com
$30 monthly membership WHOOP www.whoop.com
FOR THE ONE
WHO CAN’T MISS A WORKOUT
10 HydroJug Classic $19.99
HydroJug Sleeve $19.99
HYDROJUG www.thehydrojug.com
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Mirror Ball Rollerskates $250+
MOONLIGHT ROLLER www.moonlightroller.com
12 Hex Rubber Coated Dumbbells $22
TRU GRIT FITNESS www.trugrit-fitness.com
Photos - Cleo Harper | WHOOP | HydroJug | Moonlight Roller | Tru Grit Fitness
11
shoppe /// gift guide
13 Sinch Foldable Ebike $1,699
AVENTON www.aventon.com
FOR THE ONE
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Photo Provided By: Aventon
ALWAYS ON THE GO
shoppe /// gift guide
16 14
Sinclair Floral Mash Up Leather Platform Boots
Men Ultra Light Down Wave Quilt Jacket
DR. MARTENS www.drmartens.com
$210
$69.90
UNIQLO www.uniqlo.com
15 Women U MerinoBlend Cropped LongSleeve Cardigan $39.90
UNIQLO www.uniqlo.com
FOR THE STYLISH
TRENDSETTER
Black Crosses Mudcloth Cosmetic Bag $44.00
JENNA BEE HANDMADE www.jennabeehandmade.com
18 SeaChange Legend $88
SEAVEES www.seavees.com
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Photos: UNIQLO | Dr. Martens | Jenna Bee Handmade: Andie Kratzer | SeaVees: SeaVees & Renee Bones, NEWMARK
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shoppe /// gift guide
18 Hyde Park Collection Diamond Flower Earrings Pricing available upon request
19 Hyde Park Collection Diamond Necklace
Pricing available upon request HYDE PARK JEWELERS www.hydeparkjewelers.com
GLAMOROUS ONE 176 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Photo Provided by Hyde Park Jewelers
FOR THE
21 Lyke Minded Cookbook $85
LYKE MINDED www.lykemindedliving.com
20 Plum Wine Dispenser $2,499
PIRCH www.pirch.com
22 The Kanō Coffee and Tea Mug $54.99
ECLETTICOS www.ecletticos.com
FOR THE HOSTESS WITH
THE MOSTESS
23 Tom Stoneware Dinnerware Set $119.99
STONE + LAIN www.stonelain.co
24 Side Bowls
$30 for a Set of Four OUR PLACE www.fromourplace.com
25 Always Pan $145
OUR PLACE www.fromourplace.com
26 Mount Bachelor Soy Candle $26
BROKEN TOP CANDLE COMPANY www.brokentopcandleco.com
178 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Photos - PIRCH | Lyke Minded Cookbook: Canon Castro @canonjcastro | Kanō Coffee and Tea Mug: Ecletticos | Dish Set: Stone + Lain | Our Place | Candle: Broken Top Brands
shoppe /// gift guide
Shop, dine and chill out at Westfield UTC, San Diego’s open-air shopping mall with over 150 stores. You’ll find gems from local vendors and restaurants that’ll keep your belly full. There’s even an iceskating rink, so you can spend the entire day there without ever having to wonder about what to do next. Consider this your guide to the one-stop shop that is Westfield UTC. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, so you can bring little Fido with you. Let’s go have some fun!
All-Day Adventure FROM DRAFT LATTES TO LOCALLY MADE GOODS, LA JOLLA’S WESTFIELD UTC HAS IT ALL W
RI T
TEN
R B Y: C A R M E N VA
NE
R San Diego
10:15 A.M.
9 A.M.
Soul Healing • Some call it a workout; we call it a party. Take a ride with SoulCycle's rockstar instructors for an epic sweat sesh. Picture yourself in a dark, candlelit room, moving and grooving to high-energy music!
Coffee With a View • La Colombe offers coffee drinks like oat milk draft lattes and singleorigin pour-overs, along with tasty baked goods like almond croissants and raspberry scones. Plus, their 360-degree windows are the perfect place to people-watch. www.lacolombe.com
www.soul-cycle.com
With cocktail names like Godfather and Mild Sedative, you really can’t go wrong.
1 P.M.
Sporty and Chic • To complete your look from head to toe, stop by Alo Yoga, where you’ll find a sleek selection of athletic wear, including tops, tanks, shorts and leggings for both men and women. Find out for yourself why this eco-aware brand is a favorite among celebrities.
Mark Your Calendars
www.aloyoga.com
11 A.M.
If the Shoes Fit, Buy ‘Em • Designed for everyday wear, Allbirds’ premium shoes are made from renewable materials, so you can strut in style and support sustainable efforts. Pop into their Westfield UTC store to shop a selection of sneakers, flats, slip-ons, sandals and more!
• Don’t miss out on Westfield UTC’s poppin’ events calendar. The center hosts exciting events throughout the year for both adults and kids!
www.allbirds.com
Baby It’s Cold Outside
3 P.M.
Supporting Local • Looking for a feel good purchase that highlights a local business? Stop by La Jolla-based Pura Vida, one of Westfield UTC’s first-to-market brands! Shop bracelets from their charity collection, clothing and more to help spread the “Pura Vida” spirit. www.puravidabracelets.com
5 P.M.
7 P.M.
Korean Bites • When the cravings start to kick in, snag a seat at Westfield UTC’s Rice Goban for some hearty Korean comfort food. Choose between mains like crispy tofu and honey fried chicken, then pair it with a side like Bulgogi Poutine Fries, fried dumplings or kimchi.
The Big, Bad Wolf • Grab a cocktail at Westfield UTC’s mysterious and opulent speakeasy. Raised by Wolves offers vintage spirits and bottles from around the globe. With cocktail names like Godfather and Mild Sedative, you really can’t go wrong.
www.ricegobanusa.com
www.raisedxwolves.com
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• A day at UTC isn’t complete without a skating session at UTC Ice. Go ice skating, figure skating or take hockey lessons. You can even host birthday parties here! WESTFIELD UTC 4545 La Jolla Village Dr, Ste E25 San Diego, CA 92122 858.546.8858 www.westfield.com/utc
Photos - SoulCycle | La Colombe | Allbirds: Yoshihiro Makino | Alo Yoga at Westfield UTC | Pura Vida | Rice Goban: Justin Nunez | Raised by Wolves: Zach Benson
shoppe /// itinerary
PHOTO BY: Travis McCoy • MOE JEUDY-LAMOUR @moethursdaylove | Photoshoot Location: BEAUTY & ESSEX 1615 Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028 | 323.676.8880 | www.taogroup.com/venues/beauty-essex-los-angeles
December 2021 /// design. dedication. inspiration.
alive
Los Angeles
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Big Goals Meet Canadian Actor Moe Jeudy-Lamour of Hit Comedy Series “Ted Lasso” Spotlight
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alive /// living like a local
JROC n’ Roll From Las Vegas to San Diego, Jason Craig Knows What’s Hot
Las Vegas NAME: Jason Craig JOB TITLE: Co-Founder of In The Moment Group
3 FAVORITE SPOTS IN LAS VEGAS:
RESIDENT OF: Las Vegas
1. The Barbershop: you can get a clean up, a cocktail and hear some great live music. 2. Elia Beach Club: it’s new and fresh with a different vibe at the pool. 3. Màs Por Favor: a taco shop in Chinatown with a speakeasy bar in the back.
LOCAL LIVING: 6 years in San Diego, 25 years in Las Vegas
FROM THE GROUND UP
My favorite part about my business is the creation phase—conceptualizing a space and experience and then bringing it to life.
ALL IN THE DETAILS
Ò I might be a bit biased on this one, but it still works, so I’m doing it! STITCHED is a men’s store that does custom men’s suits and clothes. There’s not a lot like it when it comes to a manly suiting experience and a place to get sharp for a big weekend. Make sure you grab a little whiskey in the lockers to round out the experience, and ask for Jessica Bombard-Ebersbach, who’s my personal stylist.
JASON CRAIG @iamjroc
www.stitchedlifestyle.com
LOVE WHAT YOU DO
Ò I love working in the hospitality business because I enjoy creating experiences for people and making them happy. I love having people tell me their favorite drink or that they had such a good time. It lets me know in some small way, I’m influencing someone’s time and trip in a positive way. @iamjroc
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JAB, JAB, CROSS
Ò I am a bit of a gym rat and have been in mixed martial arts since I was a kid. It’s something I do just about every day. The Boxing Club in San Diego and Xtreme Couture in Vegas both offer professional-level instruction, and I always break a good sweat. I like both spaces, depending on which city I’m in. www.thebxngclub.com xtremecouturemma.com
CHILL VIBES
Ò Kassi Beach House is a must-visit at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. The ambiance combined with some of the best northern Italian cuisine makes for a fun and flavorful time. Be sure to order the mezze platter with the whipped ricotta— you won’t regret it. www.kassibeach.com
HOT SPOT
Ò The Pendry Hotel is, in my opinion, by far the best hotel in downtown San Diego and definitely has the best food and beverage offerings. Oxford Social Club, The Pool House and Lionfish are all amazing, and I really like the lobby bar, Fifth & Rose. The location also makes it a great place to stay and get around downtown if there is a convention, ball game or just to cut loose. www.pendry.com/san-diego
Photography By: Alex Jerome | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar
“I love working in the hospitality business because I enjoy creating experiences for people and making them happy.”
alive /// living like a local
indiGO Your Own Way This indiGO Auto Group Exec Talks Wheels, Local Eats and Staycation Retreats
Rancho Mirage NAME: Michael Melikian JOB TITLE: indiGO Auto Group General Manager, Jaguar Land Rover Rancho Mirage
3 CARS WORTH A TEST DRIVE AT JAGUAR LAND ROVER RANCHO MIRAGE:
RESIDENT OF: Rancho Mirage
1. Range Rover Sport SVR: incredibly dynamic and the fastest Land Rover vehicle ever! 2. Jaguar I-PACE: an all-electric car that is both fast and comfortable. 3. Land Rover Defender: highly durable and can handle many extreme terrains.
LOCAL LIVING: 17 years
HEART AND SOUL
indiGO Auto Group is a one-of-a-kind organization full of young, progressive and driven employees. Hard work is rewarded, and I can’t say enough about how they rallied behind employees during the pandemic. There is a heart to indiGO that is truly admirable.
“There is such uniqueness to [Greater Palm Springs], from restaurants and attractions to world-renowned events. Yet, it maintains a small-town feel.”
PASS IT TO THE ITALIANS!
JAGUAR LAND ROVER RANCHO MIRAGE 71377 Hwy 111 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 760.610.0315 www.landroverranchomirage.com www.indigoautogroup.com
www.therealitaliandeli.com
HIT THE ROAD
Ò Highway 74, part of the The Palms to Pines Scenic Byway, takes you from the desert to the mountains with a winding, scenic drive. It’s great to hike, but I prefer the thrill of navigating the curves in a Range Rover Sport SVR. This car gives you confidence behind the wheel with its power handling, controlled responsiveness, acceleration and torque. www.indigoautogroup.com
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SOUP-ERB
Ò When it comes to outdoor dining, I prefer more intimate places like the romantic patio of Jillian’s. The owners and staff offer personalized service and hospitality like no other. You must try the spicy corn chowder—it will blow you away! From the presentation to the taste of fiery salsa, crackled bacon and chives, this dish wins. www.jilliansfinedining.com
SHHH...
Ò Truss & Twine is my favorite hidden gem in Palm Springs. It’s located on Palm Canyon Drive, yet everytime I go there, I feel like I’ve discovered the best-kept secret in the area. The vibe is super cool: retro (think Prohibition) yet sophisticated. They have the most amazing cocktails and unique tapas. The bourbon selection...oh my...you have to check it out. www.trussandtwine.com
QUIRKY BUT LUXE
Ò My staycation spot is always Parker Palm Springs. There’s nothing ordinary about it—everything’s exceptional. From the ‘60s-style lounge and Counter Reformation wine bar to dining at Mister Parker’s behind the curtain, you feel like Alice in Wonderland from the moment you arrive. It’s a completely different experience every time. www.parkerpalmsprings.com
Photographed By: Nathan Cox | Illustrations By: Vicente Martí Solar
Ò My go-to takeout spot is The Real Italian Deli. It really is the true Italian experience in the desert; plus, I love supporting small businesses. I always order the Parma sandwich. It’s four simple ingredients: prosciutto di Parma, fresh mozzarella, arugula and tomato, which are stacked on their specialty bread. No doubt their other sandwiches are delicious, but I can’t bring myself to order anything else!
alive /// 5 pro tips
Forgive and Forget KARDASHIANAPPROVED » Alcantara is the reason behind Kim Kardashian West’s famous figure. She has been the reality star’s personal trainer for the last four years!
Melissa Alcantara Fitness Coach and Founder of Fit Gurl Mel
GET FIT AT HOME » Tru Grit came onto the fitness scene in 2019, and when the pandemic hit in early 2020, they took the initiative to supply the world with products to stay healthy and fit.
» “The one thing I think people do is try to go all out and restrict themselves. If you indulge one day then go back to your normal routine the next day, not all is lost just because you had a little fun.”
Start Today
» “New year, new day, new hour—it's all the same if you really think about it. Not every moment is going to be your best, but trust me, if you're trying a little bit every day, then I promise that you are indeed doing your best.”
Don’t Be Motivated, Get Disciplined
It’s Not Going to Lift Itself LIVE YOUR MOST FIT LIFE WITH THE HELP OF WORLD-CLASS FITNESS COACH MELISSA ALCANTARA AND TRU GRIT WRITTEN BY: GENNAH NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHED BY: TAE KWON
Melissa Alcantara is a mother and a motivator, inspiring a community of over one million people on Instagram. Her “no BS” advice will help you do the work required to live your best life. Thanks to her training app and bestselling book, Alcantara’s support is always available to you! Her Fit Gurl brand is all about grit, so it's no surprise she chooses to train with Tru Grit equipment. This rising fitness company believes in helping others be strong, resilient and determined to be the best at what they do. Alcantara shares her top tips to stay healthy during the holidays and the three Tru Grit goodies on her wish list this year.
» “I don't find motivation to tackle a new year; I find discipline in my dayto-day to have the motivation to keep fighting for the things I want and how I want to feel.”
Mel’s Tru Grit Wish List:
» Foam Competition Soft Plyo Box to step up her plyometric game
» Competition Series Olympic Bumper Plates to help her train like a champion
188 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Build a Balanced Plate
» “After many years of trying to figure out this whole ‘eat clean but tasty’ lifestyle, I've learned that you can actually have both, as long as it’s real food that the earth provides.”
Put YOU First
MELISSA ALCANTARA www.fitgurlmel.com @fitgurlmel TRU GRIT FITNESS www.trugrit-fitness.com
“If you don’t take care of yourself, you can’t possibly take care of others. It’s a practice, then a mindset.” —Melissa Alcantara
» Hex Elite Welded TPU Dumbbells Weights
» “I usually take care of my needs first and foremost. If you don’t take care of yourself, you can’t possibly take care of others. It's a practice, then a mindset."
alive /// profile
FOR EARTH’S SAKE Environmentalist and TikTok Star Caulin Donaldson Takes “Influencer” to a Whole New Level WRITTEN BY: CHRISTIAN WAIZINGER PHOTOGRAPHED BY: CÉLINE HAEBERLY
In a sea of influencers promoting everything from the hottest brands to the trendiest new tech, one TikTok star is proving that social media can be an equally powerful force in promoting environmentalism. 25-year-old Florida native Caulin Donaldson (or better known by his TikTok handle, @TrashCaulin) is making waves on the platform by practicing and preaching a profoundly simple message: pick up your trash. Now, with over 1.4 million followers on the app, Donaldson has been able to influence millions, bringing a fresh and optimistic take on environmentalism to a whole new generation.
190 LOCALE MAGAZINE
CAULIN DONALDSON @trashcaulin PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: Laguna Beach, CA
“In the environmental space, everyone has a different approach, so I’m constantly trying to evolve as a creator, learn more and bring that knowledge to a whole new generation.” —CAULIN DONALDSON
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MAKING A SPLASH • Aside from being a passionate environmentalist, Donaldson is also a lover of watersports; Jet Skiing and wakeboarding are some of his favorites. THERE IS NO PLANET B • Aside from his success on TikTok, Donaldson also recently launched an organization called Down 2 Earth, trying to bring new street- and beachcleaning technologies to local parks, arenas and stadiums across the country.
HIT FOLLOW! • To keep up with Donaldson’s journey, follow @TrashCaulin on TikTok and Instagram for funny videos and inspiring content.
START SMALL • According to Donaldson, it’s the little actions that make a difference. “If you see a piece of trash, pick it up,” he says. “It’s that simple.”
Donaldson’s journey began while working at a local cabana and Jet Ski rental service on St. Petersburg’s pristine coastline. It was here that Donaldson began to notice a disturbing pattern emerging on the shores he called home: “It was just fascinating to me,” recalled Donaldson, “[that] so many people would come out to the beach each morning, saying how much they loved the beach and how beautiful they thought it was, only to leave behind a mountain of trash right on the sand. It really bothered me.” Soon after, Donaldson began taking to social media and YouTube to voice his concerns and found immediate support from friends and family; it was not until moving his content to TikTok, however, that the young activist began to see the movement he had created.
D
“I started a video series where every day I went and picked up trash. I did this for 500 days, consecutively. That is when my page began to take off.” Soon after, Donaldson amassed a significant following on the app, granting him the now iconic moniker, @TrashCaulin. From humble beginnings, Donaldson 192 LOCALE MAGAZINE
soon expanded beyond simple trash pick-up videos and started covering pressing environmental issues in his community. His recent videos exploring the devastating impact of red tide (fish kill) on Florida’s coastline has garnered hundreds of thousands of views, launching collaborations with renowned environmental organizations like 4Ocean and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. In a matter of months, Donaldson found himself firmly cemented in the heart of TikTok’s ever-expanding environmentalist community. However, the source of Donaldson’s success on the app wasn’t just his ability to fearlessly cover and actively combat the issues of pollution and decay on Florida’s Gulf Coast, but it was the tone he took to his approach that helped separate him from the pack. “The best way to fight this is with positivity. I want to paint environmentalism in a fun and optimistic way. I want to normalize it.” In a space where environmentalism is so often met with a doomsday mentality, Donaldson maintains an enduring spirit of optimism, reminding his followers that change is possible— and it’s not too late. It’s this positivity
that has helped propel him to the forefront of people’s feeds and a factor that he believes is essential in fighting the issues plaguing our planet. “I was just one person picking up trash, and now I am able to influence millions, but it only takes one person to make a difference. I truly believe that.” Aside from continuing to produce content for his rapidly growing audience, Donaldson also continuously strives to educate himself. When asked what motivates him, the young activist noted that it is the pursuit of knowledge driving his actions. “In the environmental space,” says Donaldson, “everyone has a different approach, so I’m constantly trying to evolve as a creator, learn more and bring that knowledge to a whole new generation.” And with a plethora of social media platforms at his disposal, he has been able to connect with audiences both young and old, making his multigenerational impact a true testament to the power technology has in combating our planet’s problems. If you aren’t following Donaldson on TikTok yet, we highly recommend you do so. The planet-saving savant is already expanding his ecological empire, going so far as to catch the eyes of celebrities, namely Winter, the real-life star of the movie “Dolphin Tale” and the world’s first animal to ever utilize a prosthetic limb. Whether you’re watching him battle beach-cleaning robots in a trash cleanup competition or simply marveling at his tenacity and enduring positivity, @TrashCaulin is changing the landscape of environmentalism, and the world simply cannot get enough. “I want people to see that anyone can do this and anyone can make a difference because this is something that everyone needs to be a part of.”
alive /// 5 pro tips
“Buyers nowadays want a bright, unified feel.” —BLAKE NELLE AND CEDRIC CHANNELS
1
Blake Nelle, Cedric Channels and Real Estate up Gro els ann Co-founders of Ch
ADD A DUTCH DOOR • “It may sound corny, but if you’re going to tour a house and it has a really cute door, you’re going to want to walk in. Nowadays, buyers likely want something that is up-todate and trendy or something they’ve spotted on Pinterest, HDTV or in Locale Magazine!” 2
WHEN IN DOUBT, LANDSCAPE
3
OPT FOR HARDWOOD • “There is nothing wrong with a luxury vinyl. It’s a great option that is high quality and looks really good. Buyers nowadays want a bright, unified feel. And when you put in one single type of flooring through the whole house, it really opens up the space.”
• “Imagine getting out of your car and seeing trimmed hedges, crushed granite, slabs of concrete with little river rocks in between or even an olive tree. All of those things aren’t very expensive but can give your yard a lush and attractive look.”
THE OUTSIDE MATTERS • When it comes to attracting buyers, curb appeal is important. While you may not want to drop $50k on a new kitchen, a little landscaping is an affordable way to enhance your property. According to the team, hedges like privet are on-trend right now, which can be used as a sort of natural fencing around your front or backyard.
194 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Bringing It Home 5 AFFORDABLE WAYS TO BOOST THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME BEFORE YOU SELL
WRITTEN BY: KAYLIN WAIZINGER PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ARI MOSHAYEDI & ALEJANDRO ESPANSA
If you’re looking to sell your home, it’s important to groom your residence and properly prepare it to be viewed. To learn the tricks of the trade, we turned to Blake Nelle and Cedric Channels, co-founders of Channels Group Real Estate and Newport Beach locals. Here’s their five pro tips for getting top dollar when selling your home.
OOH LA LA • When it comes to putting your home on the market, a fresh coat of paint is huge. Channels Group Real Estate recommends using Benjamin Moore paint, which is more durable and features a wider range of shades.
4
APPLY A FRESH COAT OF PAINT • “It’s worth it to splurge a little more on the cost of material when it comes to paint—it’ll make your home stand out, and it will photograph better.”
5
INVEST IN RECESSED LIGHTING • “It provides a more on-trend look and has the ability to make your ceilings look taller.”
“Nowadays, buyers likely want something that is up-to-date and trendy or something they've spotted on Pinterest, HDTV or in Locale Magazine!” —BLAKE NELLE AND CEDRIC CHANNELS
CHANNELS GROUP REAL ESTATE 949.335.6342 www.channelsgroupre.com
alive /// spotlight
Not many actors can say their dreams of being on-screen began in a Best Buy (yes, we mean the electronics store). But for Moe Jeudy-Lamour, or goalkeeper Thierry Zoreaux on smash hit comedy show “Ted Lasso,” his acting aspirations did indeed start among the techfilled shelves. At the time (2009), Jeudy-Lamour had ambitions of becoming a lawyer and during his studies, decided to pick up a few shifts at the local Best Buy in his hometown of Montreal. And like any good success story, those law school ambitions were turned upside down—a change that began when he ran into American actor, stand-up comedian and his personal hero, Orlando Jones. “All my life, everyone told me becoming an actor is impossible because you know, I’m not from the States,” says Jeudy-Lamour. But under the fluorescent lights of Best Buy, Jones told him just the opposite. “He looked at me and said, ‘I’m standing right in front of you—of course it’s possible!’” With an ounce of hope and what felt like a pipe dream at the time, Jeudy-Lamour began acting classes, booked an agent and soon after, landed a role in the 2014 film “X-Men: Days of Future Past.” Two years later, the 2016 film “Race” was released, in which Jeudy-Lamour plays Mel Walker, Black athlete Jesse Owens’ Ohio State teammate. It was also during this film that he met talented writer, actor and producer Jason Sudeikis, a connection that would alter the course of his acting career. “I had asked Jason to write a letter to help me get my visa, and before I knew it, I was living in LA!” says Jeudy-Lamour. Fast forward a few years and there he stood: in London on the set of award-winning and beloved comedy show, “Ted Lasso.”
Big Goals
“During the first season, it was just Jason and I living in a house, and we became good friends. He’s a huge role model to me,” says Jeudy-Lamour. “He gives a clinic on humbleness every time he speaks.” And for those who’ve seen “Ted Lasso” in its entirety know its witty yet endearing nature. He explains, “The show is about being a good person. I love being a part of something so special. There is so much substance.” And for fans missing the warmth and winsomeness of seasons one and two, they can rest easy. Jeudy-Lamour ensures that season three is in the works and will begin filming in January of 2022—stay tuned!
MEET CANADIAN ACTOR MOE JEUDY-LAMOUR OF HIT COMEDY SERIES “TED LASSO” WRITTEN BY: KAYLIN WAIZINGER PHOTOGRAPHED BY: TRAVIS MCCOY
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MOE JEUDY-LAMOUR @moethursdaylove Photoshoot Location: BEAUTY & ESSEX 1615 Cahuenga Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90028 323.676.8880 www.taogroup.com/venues/beauty-essex-los-angeles
alive /// room essentials
KAMINSKIY DESIGN & REMODELING 12396 World Trade Dr, Ste 108 San Diego, CA 92128 858.206.9383 www.kaminskiyhomeremodeling.com
198 LOCALE MAGAZINE
MODERN Means Convenient
THE SMART HOME YOU’VE DREAMED ABOUT IS HERE WRITTEN BY: AMEIHIA TURINGAN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: CRESTRON
LOCALE MAGAZINE 199
alive /// room essentials
BRIDGING CONVENIENCE W I T H T E C H N O L O G Y, CRESTRON’S PRODUCTS HELP MANAGE ASPECTS LIKE A U D I O, V I D E O, L I G H T I N G A N D T E M P E R AT U R E C O N T R O L .
F
For over 15 years, the award-winning Kaminskiy Design and Remodeling has helped San Diego residents transform the look and design of their homes. Integrating state-of-the-art technology with gorgeous and functional design, the Kaminskiy team understands how to create “life-changing spaces for clients.”
Founder Sergei Kaminskiy has strong expertise in helping homeowners turn their spaces into smart homes. Smart homes utilize a system to connect appliances through a remote-controlled device. This technology enables homeowners to automate functions in their homes and conveniently control aspects like temperature, security, blinds and sprinklers. Along with centralizing these in one place, homeowners can easily monitor their energy use, which saves money, while customizing their homes to fit their family’s needs. For smart homes, Kaminskiy prefers to use products from audio-visual company Crestron Electronics. “[We use] Crestron because it is the world's leading innovator and manufacturer of advanced control and automation systems for the office and home, reinventing the way people live and work,” he says. “Crestron streamlines technology to improve the quality of life for people in their place of business and their homes.” Bridging convenience with technology, Crestron’s products help manage aspects like audio, video, lighting and temperature control. 200 LOCALE MAGAZINE
“IT IS AMAZING TO BE ABLE TO TOUCH ONE BUT TON AND SEE YOUR HOME AMBIENCE TRANSFORM IN S E C O N D S .” —S E R G E I K A M I N S K I Y
THE ESSENTIALS
Your New Favorite App
» Ready to simplify your life? Download the Crestron app to connect with your Android, iPhone or iPad; this makes it easy to control settings from your personal device! With the touch of a button, you can control aspects like lights, security and media. The intuitive app utilizes smart graphics in its interface and allows you to stream video easily.
Sergei Kaminskiy’s Must-Have Crestron Items
» Crestron has a variety of products to fit your needs, from audio setups to workplace solutions. Kaminskiy recommends starting with Crestron’s light-control and shade products. “Light control and remote, automated shades are some of my favorite products because it makes life so much easier,” explains Kaminskiy. “It is amazing to be able to touch one button and see your home ambience transform in seconds.”
Safe and Secure
» Security implications are an important consideration when thinking about transforming your house into a smart home. Crestron is deeply committed to security and utilizes innovative technology—AES encryption, 802.1x authentication, credential systems, TLS security protocol, SSH network protocol and more—in their products to eliminate vulnerabilities and ensure devices stay secure and protected.
Remote Controlled
» If you’d rather use a remote than a smartphone, the Crestron TSR-310 is a sleek device equipped with a touch screen, backlit buttons and sensors for movement and light. The backlit buttons enable users to browse menus, listen to music and navigate TV displays with ease, regardless of the light level. Programmed to understand over 25 languages, this 3-inch handheld remote also has voice navigation and dependable Wi-Fi capabilities to augment your smart-home life even further. LOCALE MAGAZINE 201
Photography Provided By: 2ND & PCH
alive /// get the deets
A December to Remember LONG BEACH’S 2ND & PCH IS EAGER TO MAKE YOUR SEASON MERRY AND BRIGHT
WRITTEN BY: KAYLIN WAIZINGER AND TAYLOR GORSKI
‘Tis the season for holiday shopping, festive fun and spending time with family. Set on Alamitos Bay, 2ND & PCH is an open-air lifestyle center where you can celebrate all the joys of the season in one place. With beautiful views of the marina, you’ll want to make time for a visit this holiday season. Mark your calendar for these upcoming events, and pencil in extra time for exploring the center’s best-in-class retailers, lifestyle services and restaurants. Joy is in the air at 2ND & PCH!
Kick off the holidays with some live entertainment and the sparkle of candlelight with 2ND & PCH’s Annual Tree Lighting!
Long Beach
Cinema Under the Stars • Looking to start up a new December tradition? Head to 2ND & PCH on Dec. 3, 10, or 17 to catch a flick under the stars! PCH Movies & Moonlight is a complimentary movie series that takes place on Seaport Way, Fridays at 6 p.m. Each event is familyfriendly, pet-friendly and open to the community. So bring your lawn chairs and blankets and bundle up—you won’t want to miss these festive weekly flicks!
Ho, Ho, Ho • Santa is heading to Long Beach on Dec. 4 for a special stop at 2ND & PCH! This year, you and your family can capture “Selfies with Santa” and wish him a Merry Christmas before the big night! Santa will be located off Marina Drive between The Italian Homemade Company and Caffe Luxxe in his 2ND & PCH custom set. Check the 2ND & PCH website for more details!
Letters to Santa
• Write your letter to Santa, and drop it at Santa’s 2ND & PCH mailbox located near Kaiju and Ample Hills Creamery. The letters will be sent directly to the North Pole! Letters received by Monday, Dec. 20 with a legible return address will receive a response from Santa himself!
Paws and Claus
• No need to leave your furry friend at home—bring them along to enjoy the holiday magic! 2ND & PCH is hosting “Paws and Claus” in partnership with bark! bark! on Dec. 7, 14 and 21. Bring your pets to take holiday selfies with Santa. It really doesn’t get cuter than this.
8 Nights of Lights
Cue the Lights!
K
Kick off the holidays with some live entertainment and the sparkle of candlelight with 2ND & PCH’s Annual Tree Lighting! On Dec. 3, from 5-8 p.m., the coastal center will light up a live 53-foot white fir Christmas tree right
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before your very eyes! There is something for everyone during this holiday spectacular, so be sure to arrive early to pick up an electric candle and cozy up in one of the center’s many seating areas for a front-row view. This is a holly jolly tradition you won’t want to miss!
• Shul by the Shore will be hosting a menorah lighting celebration at 2ND & PCH on Sunday, Nov. 28 starting at 4 p.m. The menorah will remain on-site through Chanukah from Sunday, Nov. 28 to Monday, Dec. 6. 2ND & PCH 6400 Pacific Coast Hwy Long Beach, CA 90803 www.2ndandpch.com
thank you to our partners Acoustic Spot Talent
Modernism Week
Acqua California Bistro
Movement Bottega
Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage
Mozambique Restaurant
Andaz San Diego
Newport Beach & Co.
ARRIVE Palm Springs
Old Town La Quinta
Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Omni Hotels & Resorts
Avila’s El Ranchito
Park Hyatt Aviara Resort Golf Club & Spa
Brian Liberto
Paséa Hotel & Spa
Brow House
Physicians Center for Renewal
Cafe Sevilla Spanish Restaurant and Tapas Bar
Ranch 45
Classic Club
Rancho Relaxo
Coachella Crossroads
Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Indian Wells
Cody’s La Jolla
Rene Dell’Acqua D.D.S
Constellation Brands
Ristorante Mamma Gina
Del Mar Highlands Town Center
Rock & Brews
Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge
SeaVees
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
SilverRock Resort
Fletcher Jones Motorcars
Skyloft
Forever Ageless
Spotlight 29 Casino
German Tuning Corporation
Swiss Watch Gallery & Fine Jewelers
Grind & Prosper Hospitality Group | Louisiana Purchase SD, Miss B’s Coconut Club, Park 101 Carlsbad, PB Shore Club
Tavern House
Grover Aesthetics Harley Laguna Beach Heirloom Craft Kitchen | Cork & Fork Wine Bar | Tu Madres Hyde Park Jewelers Indigo Auto Group Jones Agency Kaiser Permanente Kaminskiy Design and Remodeling Ken Grody Ford Legacy Partners Live Well Clinic Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel Lulu California Bistro Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa
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The Cassara The City of La Quinta The District at Tustin Legacy The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens The Monsaraz San Diego Trevor’s at The Tracks Trio Restaurant Tru Grit Fitness URBANA Mexican Gastronomy Warren Christopher Flooring Wdowin NMD William Grant & Sons Wilma & Frieda Winston’s Crown Jewelers Zense on El Paseo Zislis Group