I recently arrived back from the West Coast and I feel refreshed! Having spent my early 20's living in the Golden State it holds a special place in my heart. I required some much needed r&r recently and California was my destination. On my trip I spent time in Los Angeles, Malibu, Napa Valley and San Francisco. It was a whirlwind trip and I have listed some of the places I spent time at from dining, shopping and sites to see. Enjoy my finds and let me know some of your favorite spots!
Los Angeles;
Dining-
Susina Bakery-The best pastries and coffee, I dream about their chocolate mousse cake.
Joan's on Third-From their pastries, sandwiches and cheeses, this place is a gem on 3rd and a must see!
Sweet Lady Jane-I have to stop at this bakery to get my favorite cake on earth, the triple berry cake.....so good!
Shopping; I only had a few hours to spare so I went vintage clothe shopping on Melrose with one of my best girlfriends and we made out like bandits. When in town check out these places-
Wasteland, Buffalo Exchange, Melrose Trading Post and American Vintage
Malibu;
I spent the better part of the weekend at a home me and several girls rented for our dear friend Jess's bachelorette party. We cooked most of our meals in the spectacular kitchen at home but did venture out to Malibu Family Wines for an afternoon of fun. From the ambiance to the live music this was an amazing day spent! We packed our picnic baskets and made a day of it relaxing. Check out my girl Jess as the new bride in town and me as a part of her party posse!
The first photo was the view from the room I stayed in while at the house. We got our rental through Air B&B a great website for anyone looking for lodging other than a hotel. We made it back to house just in time to watch the sunset on the rooftop deck, a beautiful moment!
Napa Valley;
I stayed in Yountville with my cousin while in the Valley, home to one of the greatest chefs in our country Thomas Keller's many restaurants.
Dining-
Bouchon Bakery- For a breakfast pastry and coffee a stop at this Keller place is a must, my trip wouldn't have been complete without a visit to this famous shop.
Cook Restaurant-This is a locals spot and after finishing our meal I knew what all the buzz was about. The food is delicious and the service is wonderful.
Model Bakery-We stopped at Model Bakery for their famous English Muffin to have for breakfast the next day. Crispy, light and buttery, these muffins are perfection!
Mustards Grill-This restaurant is an institute and staple in the Valley for years. I had a wonderful dinner there which was complimented by an amazing French Pear Sidecar Martini. I am going to perfect the recipe and post it soon!
Bottega-Michael Chiarello's delightful restaurant is one of my favorite places to get a night cap in town. The outdoor seating has a fireplace that makes it a perfect setting for enjoying the company of others.
Shopping-
We headed into St. Helena which is a charming part of the Valley for the afternoon for some retail therapy and lunch. The shops are unique and fun to even just window shop.
Tastings-
Hall Vineyards-This past trip was a quick one but I managed to squeeze a tasting in at the new Hall tasting room. This is a beautiful place to visit and to do a tasting. Their newly remodeled facility and grounds are amazing to walk through, I had some fun exploring.
San Francisco;
A city worth exploring more but I didn't have the time this past visit. I was only able to make it down to China Town for a quick dinner before I caught my flight back to New York. We ate at the Great Eastern Restaurant where President Obama has dined and it was tasty.
This trip was a wonderful respite from NYC living, full of family and friends that I love.
Till next time California......
Oh, I almost forgot....you better believe I made a stop at In-N-Out!
