California’s food scene is a thriving representation of its culture, innovation and wealth of natural resources.
In this article, we take you on a gastronomic tour of some of California’s best restaurants, highlighting the state’s reputation as a foodie haven.
California’s ever-evolving culinary landscape is a vibrant mosaic of innovation and cultural fusion. It is not just about livelihood but a dynamic reflection of the state’s creativity, sustainability and appreciation for diverse flavors and traditions. Enjoy varied gastronomic adventures at these six new dining destinations that celebrate taste, culture and ingenuity. From farm-to-table emphasis to global influences and elevated classics to bold fusions, each restaurant offers a unique experience.
The newly opened oven, San Francisco
Opening in Hayes Valley, Kiln is a new 3,000-square-foot fine-dining concept from partner/chef John Wesley and partner/general manager Julianna Yang, who previously worked together at the Michelin-starred Sons & Daughters. Wesley and Yang were inspired to introduce a transformative dining experience that showcases worldly ingredients, quality engineering and outstanding hospitality. The Tasting Menu (18-20 courses, $225) and Bar Menu (810 courses, $135) explore intention, simplicity and purity of flavor with an ingredient-focused and technique-driven approach to global cuisine. Kiln’s suppliers include 90% local farmers, sustainably sourced meats and wild-caught seasonal seafood – all of which share the restaurant’s commitment to the finest produce. Beverage Director Vincent Balao, previously head sommelier at Atelier Crenn, designed a program featuring classic wines from the old and new world, champagnes, beers, ciders, sake and non-alcoholic spirits.
Luxury dining at Kimpton Alma San Diego’s Leave
Kimpton Alma San Diego, the newly opened boutique hotel in the heart of the historic Gaslamp Quarter, debuted its newest dining option, Leave of Absence, a rooftop gathering spot by the pool serving fresh cuisine and delicious cocktails. Located on the hotel’s pool terrace, Leave of Absence offers a menu of delicious bites straight from the stone, a wood-fired oven and handcrafted cocktails meant to be enjoyed in the sun and by the pool. This location is the third dining destination led by acclaimed Los Angeles chef-restaurateur Jason Neroni within Kimpton Alma. Some menu items include chicken shawarma meatballs, Hanger steak shashlik, fried rigatoni, wood-fired flatbreads, the Raspado, a Jamaican-inspired slushy spiked with mezcal; the Taiji cocktail and more.
Liquid Gravity Brewing Company’s new taproom, Old Town Orcutt
Liquid Gravity Brewing Company was founded by San Luis Obispo native Brendan Gough. A veteran of the brewing industry, Gough has spent his career brewing on the Central Coast. After working for Doc Cellars, Central Coast Brewing, and Firestone Walker, to name a few, Gough decided to strike out on his own and Liquid Gravity was born. The beers brewed and developed at Liquid Gravity Brewing Company push boundaries. By focusing on big, bold, flavor-packed beers, exotic ingredients and cutting-edge brewing techniques, Liquid Gravity aims to deliver an experience unlike any other on the Central Coast. In May 2023, Liquid Gravity opened its second taproom in Old Town Orcutt. Located at 156 Broadway Street, Ste. F, the new taproom is open Tuesday through Sunday at noon.
Fess Parker’s newly renovated Epiphany tasting room, Santa Ynez Valley
The recent renovation of Fess Parker’s Epiphany Tasting Room in the Santa Ynez Valley of Santa Barbara County, California caters to discerning vacationers and wine enthusiasts. The renovation enhances the outdoor tasting experience, introducing new paving stones and shade sails, edge seating, improved cushions and finishes for the lounge furniture, and a new outdoor service bar in the extensive garden. These improvements are designed to create a comfortable and functional space where guests can enjoy Rhône wines while immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Overseeing the renovation was Josh White, a dedicated family member committed to preserving Fess Parker’s legacy as a family business.
Nighttime fun at New Oceanside Speakeasys
Oceanside’s nightlife has doubled with two new speakeasies offering creative craft cocktails and immersive themed experiences. Ladies Love Outlaws is located in Heritage Barbecue & Beer Co. and offers a dark and moody atmosphere with a laid-back Honky Tonk vibe. The bar’s vintage jukebox is filled with classic country gold, and the bar offers aptly named cocktails like “Big Buckle Energy.” The Space Pad at Kilowatt Brewery is an alien cocktail lounge inspired by the planet Rillispore. Guests enter via a space elevator to experience the cosmic atmosphere in the 1950s Atomic Age style and can choose from a menu of innovative cocktails designed by mixologist Cristian Diaz, known for his work at Disneyland’s Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar. Menu items include cocktails with flavored smoke bubbles, color-changing lava lamp drinks and spherical cocktails that customers can bite into.
