Pictured Here: Roasted Maitake Mushrooms featuring scallion pesto, mushroom chimichurri, and arugula, available at El Dorado Hotel & Kitchen in Sonoma.
As you pack your bags and set your sights on Southern California, plan a day trip through Northern California, or venture beyond, let’s talk about some must-visit eateries that promise to turn any trip into an unforgettable culinary adventure. Here are some of our favorite spots when we’re out of town.
Southern California’s Culinary Delights
Nestled in the heart of Southern California, Alexander’s Steakhouse in Pasadena is where the American steakhouse meets subtle Japanese finesse. It’s the place for perfectly cooked steaks and a splash of inventive cuisine—a must-visit for those who love a good culinary plot twist.
San Diego, with its vibrant energy, has some gems you wouldn’t want to miss. Double Deuce is not just any dining spot—it comes with a mechanical bull. It’s the perfect mix of fun and food, making it an unforgettable night out. Looking for a place that’s buzzing with music and great bites? Whiskey Girl will keep your spirits high and your palate delighted. And for those evenings when you crave something more laid-back, Jack’s Firepit offers a cozy outdoor setting that’s just right for slowing down and soaking it all in.
Santa Barbara is a hub for authentic Mexican cuisine, thanks to the Los Agaves Restaurant Group. Los Agaves Mexican Restaurant offers traditional dishes in a welcoming atmosphere—imagine flavors that feel like a warm hug. For a refined twist on Mexican traditions, Flor de Maiz and Santo Mezcal stir up sophisticated menus and specialty cocktails that are bold and fresh, making each meal a discovery of its own.
And if your heart desires Italian by the coast, Piatti in La Jolla serves up classic Italian dishes with a Californian twist, all wrapped up in a picturesque coastal setting that feels like a scene from a romantic film.
NorCal Day Trips
Venturing through Northern California offers its own scenic and gastronomic rewards. In Tiburon, Petite Left Bank and Sam’s Cafe dish out delightful menus against the backdrop of breathtaking bay views—perfect spots for lingering over lunch and losing track of time. Over in Sonoma, El Dorado Kitchen captures the essence of local wine country dining with a menu that’s fresh and inviting. Yountville’s Restaurant at North Block treats you to sophisticated flavors that are as refined as the wine country itself.
Sausalito’s Joinery brims with life, offering a waterfront dining experience where the food is as good as the views. Down the cozy coast in Half Moon Bay, Half Moon Bay Brewing Co offers vibey seasonal brews and Sam’s Chowder promises seafood lovers irresistible fresh catches. For an upscale mediterranean experience, Souvla in Marin offers a modern spin on classic Greek dishes.
Beyond California
And if you find yourself wandering beyond California, the adventure continues. Knead Hospitality + Design curates distinctive dining experiences across the East Coast. In Washington D.C., Succotash serves up Southern-inspired fare with elegance, offering a taste of the South with a side of sophistication. Mi Vida brings the vibrant heart of Mexican cuisine to the District Wharf, creating a lively scene that’s perfect for foodies and fun lovers alike. For those who enjoy a dash of history with their meal, Gatsby in Capitol Riverfront mix contemporary American dining with themes from the past, making every meal a delicious dive into a different era. The Grill at District Wharf is a truly classic D.C. steakhouse experience, complete with white jacket service.
For the adventurers, Camp Outpost in Zion and San Antonio brings local flavors and outdoor vibes together, crafting a dining experience that’s as much about the atmosphere as it is about the food.
So, whether you’re sipping cocktails by the California coast, enjoying the charm of Northern California, or exploring the rich historical ambiance of Washington, D.C., these dining spots will make your vacation a tasty affair to remember.
