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Cocktails

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Opened in 1955, The Westbury Mayfair, a Luxury Collection Hotel, London is primely located on Bond Street, in the heart of Mayfair’s fashion and arts district. The only hotel to occupy such a prized address, it shares its illustrious position with prestigious boutiques, arts institutions and city landmarks, offering an ideal base from which to explore the individuality and authentic personality of the neighbourhood. Recently House of Coco were in residence and St George’s Penthouse Suite was taken over by our #TeamCoco for 48 hours. Here’s what we got up to…

House of Coco founder, Laura Bartlett, headed up a goal setting retreat for the team where they discussed everything from themes for the upcoming print issues, the vision for 2020 and a brainstorming session around new ideas for the publication. Broken up only by a delicious lunch, the team were filled with inspiration and ideas to take House of Coco magazine to the next level.

Given that the sun was shining, it was the perfect excuse to head out on to the penthouses private balcony to do a team photoshoot. Showcasing designer brands that had been shipped in for the occasion, the avid photographers in the team shared their tips and tricks on getting the best shots.

Laura also spent time interviewing the team at The Westbury Mayfair, including Monika Mulder the Director of Marketing and Sales, before getting behind the bar with Ciprian to get her hands dirty at cocktail making (and drinking) in the famous Polo Bar. It was an action packed day of fun, ideas and team work not only from #TeamCoco but from the staff at the hotel.

Getting out of the hotel to explore the local area, Laura, Stuart and Caoilfhionn were chauffeur driven around London to see the sights in a lush Bentley from the team at Jack Barclay, the ultimate way to cruise the Capital in style!

After all the work was done, it was time to head down to Alyn Williams restaurant on the ground floor for a specially curated menu in the private dining room for some of the team who were also joined by amazing women that Laura has met along the way. From Bandi at Glamour magazine to Ashleigh from the BBC, every single woman in the room that night meant something to Laura and it was an amazing energy having them all together. Almost as amazing as the food!

The Westbury Mayfair really know how to make you feel special and after the day and night of dreams, it was time to retire to the suite for the night for Laura and Stuart where they got to download the activities of the day whilst watching the sunset from the balcony. The next morning, sad that things were coming to an end, the butler arrived in the suite to deliver a hearty breakfast which set them up perfectly for the day. This was definitely 48 hours that they won’t forget any time soon.

To create your own memories at The Westbury Mayfair, click here and book your room today.

For our #TeamCoco Editorial Shoot, the team were dressed in head-to-toe Paloma Blue. Shop our looks on www.paloma-blue.com

It’s often said that a city is defined by its neighbourhoods, each one brimming with the culture and character of those that inhabit it. The Distillery District in the heart of Toronto is a neighbourhood well worth a visit, jam-packed with creativity and style.

The site, former home to Gooderham & Worts distillery, has been transformed into an inspired blend of Victorian Industrial architecture and stunning 21st century design and creativity. The result is an internationally acclaimed, pedestrianised village of one-of-a-kind stores, shops, galleries, restaurants, studios and cafes.

Check out Team Coco’s best places to visit in The Distillery District:

Soma
Calling all chocolate lovers, for a truly rich chocolate experience you need to visit Soma. This factory store has expert chocolatiers on hand to point you in the direction of some the finest chocolate treats. Make sure you try their Spiced Mayan drinking chocolate, its got a real kick!

The Ordinary
This cult beauty brand is anything but ordinary. The Ordinary’s products are described as “Clinical formulations with integrity” by the company itself. The brand is completely vegan and 100% cruelty free which is why their budget skin and make up collection is one of the hottest ranges on the market. Products often sell out within hours of hitting the shelves because they work and don’t break the bank. Invest in one of their $7 foundations and $5 Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum.

El Catrin
This Mexican restaurant has a lively and fun vibe. El Catrin offers authentic, traditional and modern Mexican dishes all created by Olivier LeCalvez, one of Mexico City’s top chefs. It took three Mexican artists almost 100 days to create the dramatic floor to ceiling murals that fill the walls. The cocktails here are off the hook and a fully stocked tequila and mescal bar occupies the length of the restaurant. It’s well worth the visit.

The Spirit of York
This craft distillery specialises in producing a gin, a vodka, a whisky and an aquavit. Visitors can settle into the cosy round bar in the centre of the room and sample the products. All of the spirits are made from 100% rye grain and expert distillers are on hand to talk you through the process and flavours. The most impressive part of the Spirit of York’s cellar door is the huge glass wall at the back where you can view the working distillery. Settle at the bar with a drink and watch the spirits being made.

Arta Gallery
Arta Gallery offers an impressive collection of contemporary work by both Canadian and international artists. Under the leadership of Director, Fay Athari the vision is to bring art to our daily lives and make talented artists accessible to the Toronto community. Art consultants are on hand to help you find the latest emerging artists and recommend some of the finest artistic works to accommodate your taste and style. The gallery also boasts an art bank where you can rent an outstanding collection of art works for your home or office.

Team Coco travelled to Toronto courtesy of Tourism Toronto www.seetorontonow.com

We definitely don’t need an excuse to celebrate here at House of Coco. We have rounded up the top unmissable parties to see in the New Year in London. There is a party for everyone across the capital from a cool, prosecco fuelled night in Bethnal Green to boogieing in ode of Studio 54 at 100 Wardour street, a location known for being a stalwart supporter of an epic night out.

20/20 Vision – Madison

Get ready for the city’s biggest, best and highest New Year’s Eve party, 20/20 Vision at the iconic Madison rooftop in central London. This year, partygoers can take in all of the glorious sights of the capital whilst soaking in the spectacular sounds of Madison’s live musicians and DJs who will be seeing you through the night and into 2020 in true style.

Standard tickets: £135 (include a welcome drink between 7:30pm – 8:30pm and canapés until 9pm)

VIP Tickets – £250 (includes mini bottle of Moët)

Address: Rooftop Terrace One, New Change, London EC4M 9AF

www.madisonlondon.net/event/new-years-eve-at-madison-20-20-vision

Wardour 54 – 100 Wardour St

For 33 months, Studio 54 ruled the word. Now, for one night only, it’s coming back to bridge the gap between 2019 and 2020. As we approach the dawn of a new decade, celebrate with an evening filled with the spirit and sounds of the glory days of disco, with DJs and dancers upstairs in the Bar & Lounge and live music from Belar downstairs in the Restaurant and Club.

Tickets start at £30 for early-bird party-goers.

Dining is also available, starting at £60 in Bar & Lounge from 6pm – 9pm (+£35 charge for guests to go down to the club after their reservation) and £75 for the early sitting in the Restaurant & Club from 5:30pm – 7:30pm. The late sitting is available from 7:45pm at £150 per person.

Address: 100 Wardour St, Soho, London, W1F 0TN

www.100wardourst.com/event/new-years-eve-wardour-54

Quaglino’s presents Masquerade – Quaglino’s

Get ready to welcome in 2020 in spectacular style with a night at the Quaglino’s Masquerade. Don your masks and make your way down the iconic Quaglino’s staircase to a delicious three course signature menu, accompanied by an unforgettable line-up of live music. Guests can reserve tables in the bar, or a space at one of two dinner sittings in the restaurant, where an exquisite menu designed by Executive Head Chef Nuno Goncalves will be waiting, to mark the beginning of a new decade.

Early sitting – £110 per person

Main sitting – £220 per person

Address: Quaglino’s, 16 Bury St, St James’s, London, SW1Y 6AJ

www.quaglinos-restaurant.co.uk/event/masquerade-new-years-eve-2019

NYE House Party at 640East – 640East, Bethnal Green

Miss the days of epic House Parties with your friends on New Years Eve? Games, great music, and a raucous time..

This year, say goodbye to 2019 with unlimited prosecco and food from resident food trader, Piadina Project. Take the stress out of finding a hosting house and head down to the 640East bar at The Arches for the house party of the year.

Tickets: £35 (Unlimited Prosecco) or £45 (Unlimited Prosecco + a Piadina and Fries)

Address: 159 – 161 Malcolm Place, Bethnal Green, London, E2 0EU

www.designmynight.com/london/bars/bethnal-green/the-arches/new-years-eve-at-the-arches

Located in the heart of Spitalfields, The Gun London is a ‘classic’ London pub like you’ve never seen before. Occupying a former 17th century pub, and taken over by The East London Pub Company, The Gun London serves up everything from pints to champagne and all the ambiance you need whether you’re popping in for a casual boozy afternoon or a night out dancing.

On the second to the last day of Wimbledon, we ventured to The Gun London to try out a few of their Wimbledon specials ourselves, while watching Serena Williams and Simona Halep battle it out on the court to become the Wimbledon women’s singles champion.

First up — was the ‘Webley at Wimbledon’, which was a dusty pink conception that harks back to Wimbledon’s strawberries and cream aesthetic. The cocktail was a delicious mix of Bulldog Gin with Tequila Rose, strawberry liqueur, and Mozart white chocolate vanilla cream. Don’t let its sweet creamy flavour fool you, because this cocktail certainly packs a punch.

We followed this with a trio from The Gun London’s excellent crunchy bites menu. The fried chicken with Sriracha Mayo & Togarashi spices, the lamb croquettes with Montgomery cheddar & curried coconut yoghurt dip, and the corn & kale salad are all must-haves, and go perfectly with a glass of Rosé.

Our dessert followed the Wimbledon theme and we had the ‘Strawberries of All Sorts’ — a pink and white dessert made of smoked cream, vanilla, mint, and strawberries. The perfect way to end an afternoon of tennis — on a sweet note.

Now that Wimbledon is over, and you’re still in the mood for some pink coloured drinks – don’t fret because you can still enjoy The Gun London’s limited #RoseYourWay menu – which includes everything from champagne, sparkling and Belsazar frozé, and will be available all throughout summer!

www.thegunlondon.com

Last week, Team Coco babe Hannah Tan-Gillies headed down to buzzing Shoreditch for a genius cocktail evening of epic proportions at TT Liquor’s Cellar Bar.

TT Liquor’s Cellar Bar – A Cocktail Wonderland

Now there’s no better way to get over the winter blues than by indulging in a few cocktails (or five), and we’ve just discovered the best place to explore some genius new cocktail combinations.

Located on Kingsland Road, TT Liquor may look like a specialist liquor store on the outside but offers plenty of surprises. Once inside, you are immediately greeted by floor-to-ceiling shelves of spirits and curiosities. Beyond that, you are led to another sitting room where you can catch a glimpse of the private cinema, and eventually down the subterranean labyrinth of TT Liquor’s atmospheric Cellar Bar.

TT Liquor’s Cellar Bar – Where History Meets Mixology Brilliance

Back in the Victorian era, TT Liquor used to be an old police station; and you can definitely feel the history of the building when cosily tucked into the dimly lit alcoves of the cellar bar. These alcoves used to be the holding cells for prisoners, but now feature handsome leather banquette seats and plenty of charm.

Here, we experienced TT Liquor’s new genius-themed cocktail menu. The entire menu is an homage to some of the greatest inventors of our time from Marvin Gaye to Madame Cliquot.

Elevate Your Cocktail Experience

The genius menu has been hailed as the Cellar Bar’s most ambitious one to date, with each cocktail individually crafted by a member of TT Liquor’s team. Some highlights include a Liberace-inspired concoction that offers a refreshing twist to a traditional whiskey sour. It is made with Bling, Balvenie 12, Montenegro, Disaronno, Cranberry, and Citrus.

The ‘Death Ray’ — which was inspired by Serbian American inventor Nikola Tesla — is another instant favourite and is TT Liquor’s version of a hot buttered rum. It is made with a special mix of Rebel Hell Rye and hot spiced butter & brown sugar.

Unforgettable Evenings at TT Liquor’s Cellar Bar

During our visit, we were also treated to one of TT Liquor’s ‘Thirsty Thursdays’ tasting sessions, which brings together groups of people looking to learn more about a specific spirit. That Thursday, we learned all about the history and different kinds of rum. We were also treated to a few funny stories from our friendly bartender Sacha and even had a few sips of ‘Diplomatico’ as well. Diplomatico is a Venezuelan dark rum that will surely leave a lasting taste sensation for rum lovers and rum novices alike.

But no matter what your poison may be, one thing was clear. The Cellar Bar at TT Liquor is the best place to enjoy an evening of fantastic cocktails with equally fantastic company.

TTLIQUOR.CO.UK

On a rainy spring Sunday, TeamCoco pup Charlie made his way to the Double Tree by Hilton to attend the inaugural doggy brunch at Savage Garden. What pup-tactic debauchery ensues? Read on to find out.

With 360 degree views of the city, opulent decor, and a stylish outdoor deck, Savage Garden is undeniably one of London’s best rooftop bars. You can only imagine our excitement, when we were told that Savage Garden London was opening its doors to pups and pooches all over the city for a very special doggy brunch — and it definitely did not disappoint.

In the lobby of the Double Tree Hilton, Charlie TeamCocopup Gillies met up with fellow TeamCoco pup Stanley Delf, for an unforgettable afternoon of doggy brunch. We all made our way up the elevatorand into Savage Garden’s swanky entrance hall, where we were immediately greeted with VIP treatment. (that’s Very-Important-Pooch treatment) The doggy brunch was launched in collaboration with British pet accessory brand, Hiro + Wolf, who treated the furry VIPs with a bag of treats and goodies.

Inside, there were pooches a plenty, as the VIPS made their ways to their respective tables. Amidst Savage Garden’s opulent decor and stunning views of the Tower of London, puppies and parents alike were chatting away, and taking in the lush scenery. Once we all settled in, we enjoyed some of Savage Garden’s perfectly crafted cocktails, while perusing their contemporary brunch menu. We recommend the ‘Flambard Colada,’ a rum and pineapple conception inspired by the Tower of London’s first prisoner, Ranulf Flambard. The ‘Horny Beast’ is also a great option for gin lovers, as this Beefeater Pink gin number is delicious, and also certainly packs the punch.

On the food front, the menu is as innovative as it is delicious, and is far removed from a traditional brunch menu as can be. We tried the Panko chicken cutlet, and the beetroot salmon, with a side of Plantain chips — a seemingly random combination of food, but all working together in perfect harmony. A testament to the excellence of Savage Garden’s kitchen crew. Don’t think that the pooches were left out, because Charlie and Stanley also got to enjoy their own organic cupcakes, which were so good even the paper got eaten.

Serendipitously, we ended up sitting beside the Double Tree Hilton’s General Manager, and her own adorable pooch. We talked about how the idea for the doggy brunch stemmed from her love of her own dog, and it became exceedingly clear why this particular doggy brunch has been so well executed. It’s because it’s something that came from theheart of a loving paw-rent too.

The next Savage Garden Doggy Brunch will take place on Sunday May 5, 2019. To reserve your table visit www.savagegarden.co.uk or call 020 7709 1043.

Here at House of Coco we are always on the look out for a new cocktail. Is the cocktail festive? Even better. We were introduced to the warming and perfectly sweet cocktail named ‘Flip the Don’ by the team at Don Papa.

Don Papa is a premium aged, single-island rum from the Philippines. The Philippines harbours an extraordinary rum heritage thanks to its unique climate, which yields some of the world’s best and sweetest sugar cane. The nation’s best kept rum secrets lie within the Island of Negros, where Don Papa is produced. The lush island, known locally as Sugarlandia, is home to an active volcano, Mt. Kanlaon. It’s this rich volcanic soil in the volcano’s fertile foothills that provides the ideal conditions for growing the sweet Filipino Noble Cane that gives Don Papa its distinctive flavour. This Noble Cane is harvested by hand and transported to the island’s well-worn sugar mills that have generations of expertise, before being ground to create the sweet, rich molasses that are distilled and blended to perfection within every bottle of Don Papa.

For a festive, decadent and sophisticated cocktail to serve this Christmas, try the sumptuous ‘Flip the Don’ cocktail. See below for the step by step.

Recipe…

50ml Don Papa 7-year-old

15ml Amontillado Sherry

10ml Single Cream

10ml Sugar Syrup (1:1)

1 egg

2 dashes Jerry Thomas or other aromatic bitters

Combine all the ingredients in a shaker. Dry shake, then add ice and shake hard. Fine strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick or dehydrated orange wheels for that festive feel. You have the perfect Christmas cocktail.

donpaparum.com

Forget the Ed Sheeran song, Galway has more to offer than annoyingly catchy ditties.

Here’s 6 reasons why a #CocoCityBreak in this vibrant city is the one for us.

1.The city’s colourful cobbled streets

Galway has got to be one of Ireland’s most beautiful cities. Full of cobbled streets, colourful building and history, just taking a walk is enough to lift off the stress of the week and transport you back in time. Start your exploration at Coffeewerk + Press (@coffeewerkandpress, 4 Quay Street) , get caffeinated and amble from there.

2. The foodie scene

In addition to delicious pub grub, the city’s brimming with creative small businesses serving up great food. The Dough Bros pizza parlour spot (@thedoughbros, 1 Middle Street) is not only delicious but brings their entrepreneurial journey to life with a timeline of the shop build splashed across the walls. The city’s West End won’t disappoint if you are hungry with popular new street-food-done-good burger spot Handsome Burgers (@handsomeburgergalway , 49 Dominick Street) and the ingeniously named Crust Bucket pizza bus located in the beer garden of charming pub Carroll’s (@crust_bucket_galway, 39 Dominick Street).

For something a little more upmarket, you’ll want to keep walking in Galway’s West End to the endearing Kai (@kai_galway , 22 Sea Road) for their rustic, seasonal fare.

3. Welcoming pubs

I’m not going to lie to you, when we were in Galway it was wet! But somehow, the city’s charm overcame our soggy shoes and saw us bouncing from cosy pub, to cosy pub and Galway has so many that you won’t get bored. For Irish Coffees we popped into the quirky The Quays surrounded by the inlaid wood, pews and stained glass windows (Quay Lane). Then for our first daily dose of trad music, the nook filled Tig Neachtain (@tighneachtain, 17 Cross Street) followed swifty by more live music at Tig Coili (Mainguard Street).

4. Hidden cocktail bars

After all that beer, you might need something a little lighter. Back in the West End, we fell head over hills for the retro tinged, slice of LA, America Village Apothecary tasting room (@americavillage_galway, 31 Dominick Street). America Village is the brainchild of #GirlBoss Claire Davey and they craft syrups, tinctures and bitters from locally foraged ingredients; bringing the cocktail drinker closer to nature.

Near Kai (see above) you’ll find the delightful The Universal (@universal.the, 9 William St West) with craft cocktails, beers and delicious small plates.

5. Hazel Mountain Chocolate

On the way to number 6, 35 minutes from Galway, deep in a remote, windswept part of Ireland you will find Hazel Mountain Chocolate bean to bar chocolate factory (@hazelmountainchocolate, Bellharbour, Co Clare). A fairytale come to life, you can visit the factory and cafe nestled in The Burren 7 days a week to sample fair trade, small batch chocolate made with inordinate amounts of love. Keep your eyes peeled for upcoming chocolate factory tours for your own rustic Wonka experience.

Not heading out that way? Don’t worry, Hazel Mountain have a shop in Galway City Centre (9 Middle Street)

6. The Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are so popular that we were actually advised not to go there by tourism colleagues but, with the impressive cliffs gracing our screens in films like Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, their draw is to hard to ignore. A stunning natural sight with a great interactive museum and cafe for when the unpredictable Irish weather turns for the worst – we cried with laughter about how wet and windswept we got, but when the mist lifted for all of 5 minutes, the view was breathtaking.

If you’ve ever been to Mexico you will know what I mean when I say the food is off the scale. I was lucky enough to spend some time there last year and got to sample some of the best Mexican cuisine. I’ve got to be honest, since then I’ve not eaten much Mexican food as I always end up feeling short changed and disappointed, even something as simple as guacamole has never quite hit the mark. That was until I went to Cantina Laredo, a vibrant Mexican restaurant in the heart of Covent Garden.

Cantina Laredo has a contemporary vibe and sophisticated approach to Mexican food. This is reflected in the minimal décor, snug booths, tall tables and bar seating are all complimented by low lighting. An independent restaurant, it is owned by the Ginsberg family who are dedicated to creating an authentic modern Mexican experience. Tarryn Ginsberg has teamed up with one of Mexico City’s culinary experts, Roberto De la Parra to create an informal sharing menu that takes diners on a journey through Mexico’s diverse regional cuisines.

The menu is full of Mexican staples and bites all bursting with bold intense flavours using high quality ingredients. We went for the bottomless brunch menu, it’s good value and has plenty of choice unlike some brunch menus.

As soon as our drinks arrive our waiter sets up a trolley beside the table and starts mixing from scratch plump Hass avocados with red onion, tomatoes, lime juice and coriander creating their classic guacamole – it’s simple, creamy and fresh and tastes so good, I’m instantly taken back to a Tulum beach bar. Cantina Laredo has their own dedicated guacamole bar, it’s not gimmicky, it’s awesome. Their in-house “Guacamaestro” will create right in front of you a one of a kind guacamole to suit your taste. Some of the combinations on the menu includes Grasshoppers with Grilled Avocados, Creamy Blue Cheese with Almonds and Pineapple with Pomegranate Seeds.

I was tempted to eat my way through the guacamole menu and had to restrain myself, instead I opt for the Crispy Chicken Tacos with chile de arbol cream. These crunchy little morsels were delicious and packed a punch with plenty of filling and flavour. I then went on to try the Brochetas de Arrachera. Fiery, tender skewers of skirt steak bathed in sweet Mexican soy and chile de arbol meant every bite varied in heat. Pudding was a highlight for me, a squidgy, rich chocolate, pecan and walnut brownie served with a sizzling agave vanilla butter and velvety vanilla ice cream.

There’s a buzz about the place, the Tequila bar slowly fills up with groups bustling to sample the signature margaritas and cocktails. Certified ‘Tequilistas’ are on hand to guide you through the unique tequila infusion menu. There’s an array of 100% blue agave tequilas and a range of Mezcals to choose from and the Cantina Laredo ethos, is ‘sip, don’t slam’. I try the Del Maguey Mezcal, at 49% it’s not for the faint hearted and not my thing but the margaritas are to die for.

If you’re after an authentic, modern taste of Mexico then Cantina Laredo is worth a visit.
To book at table visit www.cantinalaredo.co.uk or call 020 7420 0630.

You might be wondering why Hollywood heavyweights like Kevin Costner and Oprah Winfrey choose to live in Santa Barbara County rather than Los Angeles. And even the likes of Harry and Meghan have chosen to call Montecito home. Much like the French Riviera, the small-city, Mayberry coastal setting is an irresistible attraction. It is popular with surfing aficionados, culture vultures and wine enthusiasts. However, paparazzi are rarely spotted in the region. In this article, we examine why Santa Barbara is ready to blossom, not just for celebrities but for the international tourism scene.

World-class hotels

Hollywood royalty adores discreet five-star hotels and it is no surprise you’ll see the likes of Jane Lynch and Michael Keaton falling in love with Hotel Californian. The ornate Spanish colonial revival architecture along with the Moorish interior from celebrity designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard is a magnet for celebrities. The Mirador Rooftop Deck, which offers panoramic 360-degree views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean is a crowning jewel of the hotel. All of the surrounding buildings are three storeys or lower due to changed building laws post-1925. The stunning Majorelle spa is equally popular with Majorelle blue tiles that are often found in Moroccan designs

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara is the place for celebrity weddings. Hollywood couples who have celebrated their wedding there include Nick Carter and Lauren Kitt, Fergie and Josh Duhamel, and Travis Barker and Shanna Moakler. The hotel is just slightly outside of downtown Santa Barbara and tucked away on 78 acres of land overlooking the Pacific to offer that seclusion and privacy celebrities require. You can appreciate the beauty of the surroundings by going on a nature hike along the Chumash Nature Trail. They have one of the finest steakhouses in the region with Angel Oak and their newest opening, Bacara Wine Tasting Room is attracting countless plaudits.

Funk Zone

The area by the waterfront has risen like a phoenix from the ashes in recent years. Evolving from decrepit warehouses to the trendiest district of Santa Barbara, it is now home to countless wine-tasting rooms, gourmet restaurants and art galleries. Wine appreciation rather than mere wine consumption is the name of the game here. You are very likely to encounter one of the Baldwin brothers at The Society: State & Mason, the newest wine-tasting room in the zone. Exquisite wines are either paired with tapas-style dishes or innovative truffles from Jessica Foster. Madras curry-flavoured milk chocolate anyone?

The trendy restaurants are equally in demand in this part of town. Blackbird Restaurant pays homage to one of Hollywood’s greatest directors, Alfred Hitchcock, with subtle nods including a photo with Alfred Hitchcock and a seagull on one shoulder and a blackbird on the other. The menu passionately supports local produce from Santa Barbara spiny lobster to Hope Ranch mussels. The cocktails from renowned mixologist Devon Espinosa are not to be missed. On the border of the Funk Zone, you’ll find upscale Mexican cuisine at Santo Mezcal and a meat lover’s paradise at the retro-decorated, Rare Society.

Ganna Walska Lotusland

If Willy Wonka was in the botanical industry instead of confectionery, this is precisely what he might have created. 37 acres of the most fantastical gardens and stunning architecture. Ganna Walska, who used to own the estate until she died in 1984 (aged 96), used to call herself the ‘head gardener’ and ‘enemy of the average’. It is one of the top five gardens in the world in terms of comprehensiveness. The attractions range from the immaculately pruned Japanese Garden to the imposing cactus garden to the priceless cycad garden with plants that date back to the Jurassic period. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are known to be regular visitors and live close by.

Eclectic Museums and attractions

For a city of under 89,000 inhabitants, the museum-to-local population ratio is extremely high. One of their finest is the Santa Barbara Museum of Art . With around 25,000 pieces of distinguished artwork that span over 5,000 years of human creativity, it is no surprise over 150,000 visitors flock to the museum every year. They often have special pop-up exhibitions that highlight lesser-known, yet deserving artists such as Joan Tanner. Her outlandish sculptures made of plastic corrugated roofing sheets, re-bar, cast concrete etc. were displayed earlier in the year. The museum even has Oscar links, thanks to Christopher Plummer who famously won a well-deserved Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in “Beginners”. In the film, he played Paul Chadbourne Mills who was the director of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and came out as gay later in life at the age of 75.

For family-orientated experiences, there is MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation. The ultra-immersive installations will get your scientific brain motivated whether you are 8 or 80 and is popular with celebrities like Julie Bowen. A visit to historic Stearns Wharf is a must where you’ll find the equally interactive Sea Center. There you can touch an exotic array of marine life from sharks to rays to sea stars. To explore the rich history of the city, there is the Old Mission dating back to 1786, when the Church was building its presence in the area through these settlements. The graceful charm of the Mission has earned it the nickname “Queen of the Missions”. There is also a historic cemetery and mausoleum, a nine-room museum of classical artwork and artefacts, and numerous lush gardens.

Quirky experiences

With the philanthropic nature of the locals, you will be unsurprised to find a cat therapy cafe in the city centre. You can visit for an hour and play with 15-20 free-roaming rescue cats. They also sell apparel as well as help their resident cats find a forever, loving home. Not far away, you’ll find Salt cave Santa Barbara, the largest in North America. There are numerous therapeutic benefits to resting in their crystal cave rooms lined with pink Himalayan salt.

https://santabarbaraca.com/