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View Winners → Archive Jul 10, 2015
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As far as quality of life is concerned, we’re pretty spoiled here in California. And as “daycation” consideration goes, you’d be hard pressed to beat the destinations right here in our backyard. Since nothing really gets accomplished over the summer, why not schedule a proper break? Grab the homies, “work remotely”, and wait in line at Arco—you deserve it.
From Laguna to Oakland, we’ve rounded up a list of our favorite culinary stops along the 1, the 10, and the 101. Earmark this one, folks; because eventually, you’re gonna work up an appetite from all that scenery.
OJAI
Best Organic Breakfast | Farmer and the Cook
Full disclosure: we’ve never had a terrible meal, or time for that matter, while visiting Ojai. The folks are friendly, everywhere you go smells like Dyptique candles, and it seems as though the town was granted a permission slip from God to permanently extend golden hour. But after sitting down for breakfast at the Farmer and the Cook, our admittedly high expectations were exceeded. The all- organic and vegetarian restaurant, store, and bakery are run by a husband and wife duo that operates a 13-acre, CCOF certified farm just down the street. The vegan-friendly menu features an eclectic salad bar and daily soup options, while the lunch and dinner menus often offer Mexican dishes alongside seasonal farm specials on the weekends. The eatery boasts an exceptionally warm ambiance and the freshest food you’ll ever eat. Don’t believe us? Check their Yelp.
PALM SPRINGS
For Design Heads | Workshop Kitchen and Bar
Nestled on Palm Canyon Drive in the Uptown Design District of Palm Springs, Workshop Kitchen and Bar bodes décor as impressive as its creative take on Americana dishes. The farm-to-table restaurant, helmed by Chef and owners Michael Beckman and Joseph Mourani, works with a dozen farms in and around the Coachella Valley for a fresh, rotating menu of exceptionally thoughtful American classics. Make sure to indulge in their quirky cocktail list, which varies with market and season. And don’t be afraid to chat up the other quality enthusiasts at Workshop’s massive communal table.
OAKLAND
Worth the Detour | fuseBOX
We appreciate the concept of earning it almost as much as we love a good secret. So when a Bay Area homie turned us on to under-the-radar, Korean-fusion spot fuseBOX, we braved the sketchy hood in search of this hidden, and we mean hidden, gem. Sitting on the corner of West Grand and Magnolia Streets, fuseBOX is surrounded by industrial warehouses, chain-link fences sequestering concrete yards, and abandoned (ish?) buildings. Its signage is almost non-existent, so keep your eyes peeled for the life-sized wooden hippo, which sits right out front. Once discovered, fuseBOX will validate the expedition, and reward you with the best Korean Fried Chicken and kimichi you’ve probably ever had. One more delicious reason to visit SF’s cooler cousin.
SANTA BARBARA
Best Late Night Snack | Olio Crudo Bar
Olio e Limone’s baby sister, Olio Crudo Bar, is the latest addition to the Morello family’s collection of Italian restaurants. The first-come, first-serve spot is cozy, seating just 26; but it also features high ceilings and high-top tables that keep the space breathable. From yellowfin tuna tartare to Scottish salmon carpaccio, the menu offers raw seafood and cooked small bites, perfect for an intimate, late night snack. Pro tip: grab a rare, vintage wine from their notable list and Uber it back to the hotel—you’re on vacation.
LAGUNA BEACH
Best View | The Deck
Worked up an appetite believing the asshole who suggested taking PCH down the coast? Been there. Make those 108 traffic lights count and treat yourself to dinner at one of the only open-air restaurants in Laguna Beach, aptly named The Deck. The dress code is mellow at this local hang, so go casual and enjoy a light menu of seafood, small bites, and incredible ocean views. Now we see why Jessica stayed in town.
