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CALIFORNIA
Food & Wine
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Cindy's
Backstreet Kitchen (St. Helena) We booked a large table at the last
minute, on a Friday night, and they were able to get us in. I was
embarrassed to even ask...but they were very accommodating. It was
a fabulous meal (I had the roast quail with figs and arugula), and the
wine list was a nice selection from the area and abroad. For those
who are into desserts: I am unsure of who the pastry chef is...but the
tart was one of the best I have ever had, and the chocolate cupcake
with home made pistachio ice cream was fabulous! If your
in the area, you cant go wrong here. Thanks to the
Greystone at
CIA for the recommendation! (they were fully booked)
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Santa Barbara Farmers Market.
Ok, yes, technically not a restaurant, however, some of the best
fruit, vegetables, herbs, meat, seafood and other items I have every
come across. Its easy to go astray here, and equally easy to
find just what you need for a wonderful meal. Well supported
by local farmers (many organic) as well as
Edible Communities. Year
round you can find one every day somewhere in the Santa
Barbara/Goleta area. Must try: Ridgeback shrimp from Gorgita
Seafoods, honey from San Marcos Farms, and honey dates from DaVall
Date Garden.
Hotels
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Tenstone Napa Valley Estate (St.
Helena/Calistoga): This is one of those places that is very much
categorized as a splurge, however, if you can make the leap this is
where you want to do so. Located in between St. Helena and
Calistoga, the Tenstone Estate is a massive estate situated on a
private vineyard. Where the estate lacks in toiletries and
staff, you gain beautiful views of the surrounding vineyard, pool
with attached pool house (with outdoor kitchen, pool table, etc...)
and other comforts. We were able to accommodate eight couples
with plenty of room and comfort to go around.
Dining options
are aplenty either in nearby St. Helena or Calistoga or hire a chef
to create your dining experience.
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