This is a packed issue.
As we were playing around with themes and ways to highlight the best of Ventura County, we found ourselves awash in great ideas. Too many, by far, to fit into one edition — and believe me, we tried. July/August has always been focused on food, but this time we’re upping the ante with a veritable smörgåsbord of places to dine…and recreate…and dwell for a spell. In case you’ve got company coming or want a groovy little staycation for yourself.
Eat. Stay. Play. Time to plan that summer vacation!
Ice cream is synonymous with summer, which is why we couldn’t resist putting Rori’s Artisanal Creamery on the cover. Rori Trovato is a former chef and food stylist who has churned (ahem) her many talents into the creation of gourmet ice cream and sorbet. Lucky for us, she now has two locations in Ventura County — at The Mark in Old Town Camarillo and the recently opened shop in Downtown Ventura.
We also highlight lively Hollywood Beach Cafe (fantastic breakfast!) and chic cocktail lounge Rocks and Drams (which also serves some great Asian Fusion, too). And because we couldn’t help ourselves, at the end of every section, we’ve included a short list of other local favorites.
In the “Play” category, we took a trip through Ventura’s many craft breweries by bike. Nature lovers should enjoy our coverage of Ojai’s Rancho Grande, where friendly farm animals (including a celebrity camel) and an Old West feel make for a unique glamping experience. And everyone should really check out the walk-through light experience Imaginarium currently in Camarillo.
Looking for an oceanside holiday? Boatel on the Water should do the trick. Beautifully appointed yachts at Ventura Harbor make for comfortable stays right on the water, where guests can enjoy beautiful sunsets as well as all the amenities of Ventura Harbor Village. Or how about the historic elegance of Glen Tavern Inn, right in the heart of Downtown Santa Paula? Most of that charming city’s attractions are just steps away, while a short drive will take visitors to trendy Ojai or blissful Ventura beaches.
This is not a comprehensive list of places to eat, play and stay in the 805. Not by a long shot. But hopefully it will give you some good ideas, maybe a few new things to check out and help you plan your next vacation. There’s just so much to enjoy here; let’s get out there and explore it!
– Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer
nshaffer@timeslocalmedia.com
