OJAI, CALIFORNIA
A treasure of a town that feels far and away, but is actually nestled just inland of the Ventura coastline. My take on Ojai is heavy on the food with some play and shopping dabbled in. This one is sure to stir up some inspiration.
PLAY
OJAI VALLEY TRAIL
Ojai is known for it’s excellent hiking and springs, which I’ll let you do your own research for, because I hate to be a contributor to overrunning natural resources, BUT one man made path that is ideal, especially if you have kids with you, is the Ojai Valley Trail. It runs along the back side of town. Our family loves to bring bikes to Ojai and ride them to the unbeatable Ojai Valley Inn for ice cream and a romp on their lawn (excellent hill rolling!). If you are staying at the Inn, which is absolutely recommended, they have bikes available to ride into town or pedal wherever you fancy.
LIBBEY PARK
If you are visiting Ojai with children - as you drive into the center of town, Libbey Park has a spectacular playground for littles to get their wiggles out before exploring the rest of town.
OJAI VALLEY INN - ARTIST COTTAGE & APOTHECARY
This charming little cottage is a beautiful setting for children and children-at-heart to be guided through all sorts of art and apothecary activities - think candle making, pottery painted, paper marbling…
EAT
THE NEST
For super casual but even more delicious fare, order some innovative comfort food from The Nest and grab a seat at one of their outdoor picnic tables. Make sure to peak in Fern’s General Store right next door.
OSTERIA MONTE GRAPPA
Right across the street from Libbey Park is the unsuspecting farm-to-table Osteria Monte Grappa serving up inventive Northern Italian deliciousness. I’ve been coming back for more for over a decade now.
THE DUTCHESS
Typically it seems multitasking leads to a lackluster finished product, but that is far from the case with The Dutchess. This multifaceted place wears many hats with excellency making it a great place to stop in for a treat, post up with a caffeine boost to get some work down, or sit down for a really well made meal. Walking through the beautiful space, it seems to just keep going and going until you reach the bar and pool table in the very back, only to realize “wait, there’s more!”and discover the charming back patio.
OJAI ROTIE
Lebanese French picnic style dining - Ojai Rôtie is known for its bread. As you may well know, I (and all of the recipes you find here) avoid gluten, but if you only have a sensitivity, not a true allergy, this is one place you may consider splurging. Their bread is made using long fermentation which makes it easier to digest. Let’s just say, this is gluten done right.
OJAI VALLEY INN
Whether or not you’re staying here, there are a few delicious dining options on the property. Indulge in the distinctively refined cuisine at Olivella, focused on local and seasonal ingredients. For a more laid back option, The Oak and Jimmy’s Pub sit conveniently across from a beautiful lawn for children to romp around on while waiting for their meal to arrive. Even better, arrange to visit during one of the culinary events at The Farmhouse.
DEKOR OJAI
Across the street from The Nest you’ll find the intentionally curated DeKor with one side focused on apparel and the other larger side styled with home goods and textiles both new, locally made and vintage.
SHOP
BUNGALOW BY FIG
Just off the main drag, less than a block from The Nest lies a whimsical little bungalow filled with countless colorful treasures from clothing and jewelry to home goods and the sweetest little children’s section.
SUMMER CAMP
On the way out of town (or on the way in), don’t miss Summer Camp - a home and lifestyle shop in a converted gas station. Their textiles, ceramics and vintage finds keep me coming back.
FERN’S GENERAL STORE
Right next to The Nest (literally next to the order window), sits this little general store, appropriately curated with something for everyone.