I recently visited Ojai, California for the first time for a quick 24 hour getaway. As a native Angeleno I have not excuse for having never enjoyed Ojai since it is an easy hour and a half up the coast from Los Angeles. When Ojai released their new Ojai Love package to support Thomas Fire Relief Efforts I decided there was no better time to explore the sweeter side of this magical town nestled at the base of the mountains inland from Ventura County.
Now through the end of March you can enjoy 10% off hotel stays, meals, and shopping from select vendors when booking an #OjaiLove package. So it’s a great time to eat, drink, sleep, and give back!
Here are five sweet treats to enjoy on your visit:
Breakfast : Beacon Coffee
Beacon Coffee is a must stop for a perfectly brewed cup of joe and some pastries. As a lover of butter, flour and sugar I was honestly surprised by how good their gluten free pastries were. Not at all grainy or dry, they were equal to their wheat flour based counterparts. At Beacon they use coffee exclusively from responsible producers, sourcing top quality beans often from micro-lots and you can taste it. Beacon Coffee is the one-stop-shop for every coffee aficionado.
Lunch: The Nest
The Nest may be Ojai’s newest restaurant (having opened late 2017), but it is built onthe long culinary and family history of its head chef and co-owner, Kiona Wachter. Longtime residents and visitors may remember the original—The Nest of Ojai, a restaurant founded by Wachter’s father, Eric. Chef Kiona keeps with many of her familys recipes and traditions while adding fun twists and spins. We practically ordered everything on the menu on our visit and note one single thing disappointed. Just save room for dessert because that is the best part. On my visit I order the ther brownie with mocha whip and pistachios. It’s made with coconut flour and oil, hemp and chia seeds, and cooked in the pizza oven for a bit of a crisp crust. Hands down one of the best brownies I’ve ever had! The Nest offers a lovely casual atmosphere and locally-sourced, modern comfort food.
Stay: Lavender Inn
Built in 1874, this historic bed & breakfast was originally Ojai’s first schoolhouse. This cozy seven room guest house in the center of town is the perfect place to stay especially on a quick trip into Ojai. You can easily access most of the town center by food along with a local grocer across the street to pick up those famed Ojai Pixies before you head back home. My favorite part of my stay here was their incredible breakfast spread. It was enchanting to wake up to the delicious smells coming out of the kitchen and then to be able to casually head downstairs and enjoy it. They even offer gourmet cooking courses if you’re so inclined. Wonderful hospitality, sweet lavender filled garden to enjoy, and a comfy cozy rooms.
Afternoon Refresher: Revel Kombucha Brewery
You don’t have to be a health nut to enjoy this kombucha cafe. They offer flights of their homemade tonics, which they aptly call the Champagne of kombuchas as well as an assortment of acai bowls (some of the best I’ve had it must be that local Ojai honey). It’s in the heart of town and a perfect place to kick up your heels mid-day for a refreshing break.
Great Any Time of Day: Knead Bakery
This mom-and-pop bakery offers fresh-baked breads, artisanal pastries, desserts, and daytime eats. It’s a great stop no matter what you’re craving. I grabbed myself a cupcake for the road while also eyeing their almond croissants and cheesecake. Bonus – for a limited time, support the local small business community and purchase an
I Love Ojai box with a sampling of local favorites.
*** And because sweet is best with savory, don’t miss Tipple and Ramble wine bar for some incredible wine, a gorgeous patio, lite bites and sweets too. Also, Ojai Harvest is the spot to go for dinner. Make sure to order their fries, trust me they are life changing!
Sweet Somethings: