Santa Barbara Archives - Jen is on a Journey

Olio Pizzeria, Santa Barbara

April 25, 2016 by The Mom Jen 2 Comments

Downtown Santa Barbara’s State Street is known for it’s delicious restaurants. Every chance I’ve had to stop in the area and well before I began writing here, I’ve dined downtown and have yet to find a restaurant that I haven’t fallen in love with. Just off State on West Victoria, Olio Pizzeria welcomed our family earlier this year for an Italian dinner experience that we’re still talking about today.

Olio Pizzeria’s® causal concept pizza bar/wine bar/full bar was inspired by the myriad neighborhood pizzerie and enoteche (wine bars) found around the corner from just about every piazza in Italy. This idea began to take shape before we even opened Olio e Limone Ristorante, our fine dining restaurant next door, in 1999. Olio Pizzeria® is a casual place set in Santa Barbara, CA with an emphasis on simple, delicious everyday artisanal Italian food served in a convivial casual environment, drawing inspiration from all of Italy’s regions.

It’s no secret that I’m a pizza addict. As much as I try to order unique items at new places, my fallback comfort food is always going to be pizza. I really couldn’t pass up trying Olio. It was a cool Saturday night in beautiful Santa Barbara, the restaurant was packed. We arrived well before our reservation and still had to wait about 20 minutes, but walking into the building and to our table we were overwhelmed with wonderful aromas emanating from the kitchen. My husband and I both began with a cocktail and a glass of wine, a refreshing starter that reminded me of a Mai Tai then a 2008 Primitivo Zinfandel, spicy and delicious my tastebuds were ready. We were both allowed to order off the menu as well as the host delivering some specialties to our table. Arriving first was the locale salad, organic greens, cherry tomatoes tossed in a red wine vinaigrette. Next was a pizza bread with herbs, garlic, and sea salt, and baked meatballs in a marinara that was “lick-the-dish” delicious! Leftover sauce (if it exists) can be used to dip the bread, oh so good! We had our oldest daughter with us on this trip and she is often a picky eater. The beginning dishes of the evening were right up her alley, and she even suggested we make meatballs at home more often, a great sign! Out next was something that we did not order, nor did we expect. The looks on our faces were priceless, of complete shock I’d have to say.Calamari al Nero is the official name, calamari fried in squid ink was more descriptive and easier to understand. The black portions of tubes and tentacles were nothing I’ve ever seen before. Slightly off-putting visually I am honest in saying I wasn’t eager to try this. My husband was braver than I and the crunch of his first bite was undeniable. He was amazed at the freshness of the calamari and the intriguing outer texture. He vowed this was the best seafood he’s ever eaten. I tried it after a generous squeeze of lemon and was pleasantly surprised, it was incredible! You can’t just a book by it’s cover with this dish, the color of the blue-black squid ink is only that…color, despite it looking like it was burnt to a crisp. The lemon aioli was a bright addition for dipping, definitely something I’d order again!Boscaiola pizza was brought out next, and I grinned ear to ear. Mushrooms, sausage, fresh mozzarella just made for pizza perfection after a hearty sprinkling of chili flakes! The crust held up on each slice but was thin enough so not too filling. Families will be happy to know that even the pickiest of eaters and pizza snobs in the household have plain noodles with butter and parmesan cheese easily made to please!We heard dessert was on the way, so we made sure to stop and take most of the pizza to go, boy was it good cold the next day for lunch! I only wish we had about 30 more minutes to digest but out came the first of two sweets, Budino Di Zucchero Di Canna or butterscotch pudding with a caramel sauce. Butterscotch pudding reminds me of my youth, pudding cups in my lunch pail that had that comforting feeling. This was a pudding cup all-grown-up! The silky texture of the pudding and sauce together on your tongue will make you groan with pleasure, yet it wasn’t overly sweet like the name may imply. I was afraid it wouldn’t hold up overnight, otherwise I would have taken the rest to go as well. Finally, a classic Italian dessert Cannoli Di Ricotta was presented to us. My first cannoli, it was a chocolate chip pastry filled with cream, drizzled with chocolate, and topped with ground pistachios. This was rich and almost too much for my taste buds to handle. I love the pistachio and chocolate combination but I’ve never really been a fan of ricotta. The presentation was beautiful, but this just didn’t hit the mark with me, my husband really enjoyed it, but luckily there is a variety of other desserts to choose from next time!

Our meal may have been hosted (minus gratuity and alcohol), but my honest views have been expressed. We would dine at Olio Pizzeria in Santa Barbara again tonight if we weren’t 4 hours away. We would come just for drinks. We would come just for pizza, we would come just for dessert. This night was an indulgence and then some. Despite their packed house, our server never forgot us in the back corner and always made sure we were okay and our glasses were full. Southern Californians will be happy to learn that there is also a second location in Westlake Village in the Conejo Valley!

For more information, visit www.oliopizzeria.com and to make reservations!

West Beach Inn, Santa Barbara

March 30, 2016 by The Mom Jen 4 Comments

It’s no surprise that we’ve been on the road a lot lately. It’s generally what we enjoy doing, but most recently we’ve been touring our state of California for our oldest daughter. As a senior in high school, she has applied to universities with a plan to major in Dance. With this major also comes the added application requirement of having to audition for placement in the programs. A weekend to UC Irvine and UC Santa Barbara had us down in southern California and we were thrilled to partner with West Beach Inn right across the street from Santa Barbara’s harbor.

For years my girlfriends and I would stay in the gorgeous city for our annual getaway adventure. West Beach Inn is just down the road from our favorite beachside restaurant, so I immediately knew we were in a fabulous area. Sitting on the corner of Bath and W. Cabrillo Blvd. the hotel offers various areas of free parking just steps to your room. We arrived late into town and when we got to check in they were closing in on the tail end of their complimentary wine and cheese hour. We appreciated that the staff gave us a bonus 15 minutes to enjoy a drink and also pour a second glass of their California Cabernet.I love a hotel that offers a happy hour, it makes for an easier transition to a relaxed state-of-mind for many travelers. After our evening snack, we left the lobby and approached the pool and hot tub area. Both are illuminated by lavender lights at night and look really cool. The hot tub is covered by a pretty black canopy where you can close the drapes up for a little privacy and it took all of me not to race and get my swimsuit on for a quick dip. My husband and daughter reminded me we hadn’t even made it to our room yet, so we picked up our luggage and made way for the Garden Suite on the second floor.

Walking in, there’s a desk and chair to the right and a living room area and television. Plenty of space for three of us and would be wonderful for our whole family of 5 had we all traveled together. The couch pulls out to a bed, and the chairs were comfortably positioned to chat or enjoy a show. A full kitchen was at our disposal, and had we been staying more than one night would be perfect to cook a meal or two in to save some money. A dining table for 6 completed the layout and we made use of it as we planned for the rest of our trip.The master bedroom had a wonderfully soft and comfortable bed, with a sitting area, television, large closet and master bath. Dinner reservations had us in to refresh and out quickly only to return and fall quickly asleep. Even with a full hotel, we slept soundly and only heard the impending El Nino storm that approached. We made time in our schedule to wake a bit earlier to enjoy the hotel’s complimentary continental breakfast located in the lobby. Breads, bagels, cereal, fruit, coffee and juices were just enough to start our day. Travelers not familiar with an area can use a kiosk in the lobby that serves as a concierge to activities, restaurants, and more in Santa Barbara.During the day you can tell the pool area is a great place to relax and enjoy with plenty of chaises and tables.Palm trees and fruit trees surround the property with lush green, with tons of tranquil areas to read a book, chat with family and friends, and enjoy the outdoors. After my daughter’s audition later that morning and before we got on our journey home, the sun peeked through the clouds and we got that money shot from just outside our room of the harbor.A enjoyable stay, albeit quick, was had by all of us at the West Beach Inn. We encountered nothing but lovely hospitality, comfort, and extra special amenities you’d find in a luxury resort. The location is perfect near the beach and just 5 minutes from the bustling State Street and activities the city has to offer. Non-suite rooms are affordable enough for a weekend, or week’s vacation and we will definitely come back again when we’re in the area to enjoy that pool and spa!

For more information on West Beach Inn and other Coast Hotels, visit https://www.coasthotels.com/.

Visit Santa Barbara: Culture 101 Spring Promotions

April 9, 2014 by The Mom Jen 1 Comment

I love Santa Barbara, it’s like no other place in California! The culture of the Santa Barbara South Coast will radiate your senses full of seaside artistry and passion. From the fresh cut flowers of Carpinteria to the historic landmarks of Santa Barbara to the scholarly traditions of Goleta, the Santa Barbara South Coast is a portrait of harmony and rhythm that’s painted within each of the 5 unique cities, all within reach, and just off Highway 101.

From March 17th through May 31st, Santa Barbara is offering cultural experiences and lodging packages unique to the city for all to enjoy as part of Visit Santa Barbara’s “Culture 101 Spring Promo: Only in SB.” Over 25 offerings will showcase Santa Barbara’s rich culture and provide an unforgettable experience that can’t be found anywhere else!

Promotion highlights include:

Private Dome Car Botanical Day Trips (April 26, May 10) – Join Santa Barbara Botanical Garden’s expert botanist and storyteller Steve Junak aboard a restored Vista Dome Lounge-Dining Car for a narrated, scenic adventure through Gaviota, Hollister Ranch, and Vandenberg Air Force Base. Lunch and libations will be served as some of Southern California’s last original native landscapes are explored.
Opera in Historic Places (April 28) – Opera Santa Barbara presents a concert in one of Santa Barbara’s most remarkable venues: the Mural Room of the SB County Courthouse. Guests will enjoy appetizers and cocktails on the terrace overlooking the Sunken Gardens prior to the concert, which will serve as the announcement for OSB’s 2014/15 season.
Cacti and Cocktails at Lotusland (May 17) – Stroll through the garden and experience the magnificent epiphyllum and cactus blooms. Join a docent-led tour or members may explore the garden on their own. Specialty cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served, a rarity to be able to enjoy on Lotusland grounds!
Night of Inspiration (May 31) – Flag is Up Farms invites participants to witness a Join-Up experience, legendary horse trainer Monty Roberts’ signature training event between human and horse. Afterward, enjoy a traditional barbeque dinner with Monty Roberts and artist Pat Roberts in their hilltop home—where inspirational topics of conversation will emerge.
Culture 101 Santa Barbara Starts at the Ramada (March 17 – May 31) – The Ramada Santa Barbara encourages guests to immerse themselves in Santa Barbara’s culture with 2-for-1 offers on various cultural attractions including the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, Art Foundry, Ty Warner Sea Center and several wine country destinations.

For more information check out Culture101SB.com to plan your next trip to the American Riviera.

Santa Barbara, CA: Glamping at El Capitan Canyon @ElCapCanyon

February 8, 2013 by The Mom Jen 9 Comments

My husband grew up tent camping, I grew up vacationing in cabins and hotels. When we started dating, he introduced me to the art of sleeping in sleeping bags on the ground. What can I say I was in love, and it wasn’t that bad. Once we were married with kids we continued our camping trips but included air matresses into our packing list because backaches are not fun for anyone. Flash-forward to this month when we were introduced to the best of both worlds, “Glamping!”

Glamping is camping but in style! It is truly the comfort of a cabin, Yurt, or upgraded canvas tent with all the amenities you love of the great outdoors. El Capitan Canyon just north of Santa Barbara has this amazing campground with views of the surrounding mountains and gorgeous Pacific. You can literally camp here year-round and there are so many reasons to love this way to vacation, here are a few of what we experienced!

Comfort Our family of five stayed in a Creekside Queen cabin which had a queen bed, kitchenette, bathroom with shower, and a small table inside. Also, perfect for my 3 kids was the loft accessible by a ladder with twin mattresses, pillows, sheets and blankets. The cabin has heat and hot water which was perfect for our January weekend! You can sleep with all the shades and blinds open and wake to nature, have the windows open to smell the fresh mountain air, but rest your body on a cozy bed!

There is a porch with chairs to enjoy the outdoor surroundings. For peace of mind with the kids running around, hikers and bikers, the canyon is car free! Drive up to your site to unload and pack up, but then park your car in a lot away from it all. It makes for a safe area with extra quiet!Just like traditional camping, a picnic table and fire pit in each site perfect for bbqing dogs and making S’mores.

Space Just like having a “campsite” at a traditional campground, each cabin has it’s space around it for the kids to move about, there are rocks to climb, and creeks to explore (be care of poison oak).

Bonus Amenities If the cabins alone weren’t enough, visit the Canyon Market & Deli for shopping, food to bbq, drinks, and anything you may have left at home! You can pre-order dinner kits as well. Want to be cooked for, you can do that there too with their breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu and can you believe, pizza! Even more, a heated pool year-round for kids and kids at heart!

Bikes Being just right under the freeway from El Capitan State Beach, grab a bike and ride over, or just stroll around the campground, free of charge with your reservation. We would have loved to do this, but since they don’t have bikes for little ones, we didn’t want to leave me 7 year out, next time for sure!

Beach One of our most favorite camping spots in the Monterey Bay area is on the beach, we love that option in the summer and early fall months. El Capitan Canyon is a short 10 minute walk to the Pacific Ocean where you can spend the day or a romantic evening!

Options Whether you’re looking for romance, a family trip, or a group retreat there is something for everyone. Our cabin was perfect for a family, there are bunk cabins, Yurts (with electricity), and canvas tents for kids that can be used in a group trip or guys getaway. And of course there’s top of the line cabins with amazing views, full kitchen’s, sunken tubs, outdoor showers fit for a honeymoon or anniversary.So many times have we driven past this exact spot off Hwy 101 and little did we know the gem within! Our first home together as a couple was an in-laws cabin on some property that wasn’t much bigger than this one, and laid out very similarly.The lovely memories we had there were brought back to life sealed the deal that we’d be back and very soon!

Our stay was hosted, all opinions our own.

Santa Barbara, California: Pacifica Suites Review

July 5, 2011 by The Mom Jen 2 Comments

Over Father’s Day weekend, we were heading down to San Diego and it’s about a 9 hour drive total from home. That includes dinner, snack, and restroom stops for all 5 of us and makes for a long one-day trip. This time around we wanted a half-way point and when driving down the coast on Highway 101, Santa Barbara is about as beautiful as mid-way stopping gets! Now there are tons of places to stay in this gorgeous locale, the Pacifica Suites on Hollister Avenue is one of them, and if you’re looking for immaculate grounds, relaxing rooms, and a step-above breakfast, you’ve found the right place!

The property is just a few short miles from the beach, UC Santa Barbara (a great place for parents of college students to stay!), and tons of shopping, the hotel is beautifully landscaped and adjacent to the Sexton House, now a grand social gathering or business meeting site.

In 1852, the Sexton family left Ohio for California, and upon reaching their destination, established plant nurseries. On the Goleta property, Joseph Sexton built one of California’s widely acclaimed pioneer nurseries. He introduced countless plant species to the areas and provided many of the trees and ornamentals that enriched the beautiful gardens for which Santa Barbara was eventually celebrated. When the family grew, so did their need for space. In 1880, Joseph and Lucy commissioned Peter Barber, Santa Barbara’s premier architect, to design the striking Italianate house which now serves as the centerpiece of Pacifica Suites in Santa Barbara, California.

My husband loved how they took the same style of architecture from the original Sexton House and designed the Pacifica Suites. The grounds are kept immaculate, have beautiful flowers and shrubbery, gives you a feeling of warmth.

We arrived early evening after about a 4 hour drive and the kids were eager for a pool. The long rectangular heated pool was perfect on this cool coastal evening and put smiles on all of our faces! The hot tub was smoking hot and you can set the timer on the jets for some muscle soothing after a long day. Plenty of chaise chairs are available on a busy day and the pool is centrally located on the property.

Our room had a great view overlooking the pool, was open and very spacious for our family of 5. The main bedroom included two queen beds and a television next to a full bath with shower. I love that the vanity area is separate now that my tween takes more time to get ready than I do! On the counter I was surprised and a bit saddened to see an amenity I’ve never encountered before in a hotel, Tar-Off wipes! After talking to some friends, Santa Barbara and Goleta beaches are known to bring in lots of tar from the channels just ashore. The sticky substance is often taken with you once you leave and the hotel is keen on helping you out. Complimentary bottled water is offered, which is a premium nowadays when you can see them in hotel rooms for up to $6/bottle.

Being a suite, our room also had a living area with sofa-bed, television, balcony with chairs, and a work table and chairs. I like not having to bring sleeping bags and putting kids on the floor, we had plenty of room for everyone to have a bed (two kids did share, which is fine). According to my 10-year old, the sofa-bed was the most comfortable couch he’s ever slept on! Robes were offered and though many people may over-look them in the closets, I think they are lovely and use them all the time, those are always something that makes me feel at home!

Upon check-in we were informed about the special made-to-order breakfast that comes with your night’s stay! Not only does the hotel offer a full continental-breakfast with cereals, muffins, breads, fruit, coffee, tea, and juices, but you can fill out a form with your choice of eggs, meat, breads (including bagels and cream cheese), side of waffles, pancakes, and hash browns! Omelets with your choice of fillings are also available, just take the form to the counter and the chef makes it fresh for you in a few short minutes. The breakfast room has a lot of 2-top tables that can be combined for more family members and you can also dine outside with heaters when it’s cooler.

Another great amenity is Pacifica Suites’ weekly wine reception. Monday through Thursday evenings you can enjoy Firestone wines, a local family winery! This hotel is fabulous, the staff is so nice and eager to help, I thank Melanie for checking me in and making sure everything was perfect during our stay. I also thank the staff for holding on to our bag that we left upon check out. We realized it when we got to our final destination of San Diego and were so happy to call and find that they set it aside for us. We picked it up on our return trip home!

I look forward to the next trip down the coast, this will be the first place we book!