Food & Drinks

  It’s no surprise that the uniqueness of Santa Barbara translates into its indie coffee shops. Stay away from the big box java stops and enjoy the brews by the locals.   The French Press -1101 State St., SB, 93101, 805.963.2721 Right in downtown, and with their own in-house roasted coffees, pastries and cookies, it’s more than a worthwhile break from the hustle and bustle of the streets. Whether you sit indoors or outdoors on the back patio, you will enjoy the generous portions. There’s also a private parking lot when you want to make it your direct destination. There is another location at 528 Anacapa St.   Vices & Spices From Around the World – 3558 State St., SB, 93105, 805.687.7196 Candy and tea and coffee? Oh My! This eclectic stop is part knick-knacks, part boutique, and lots of coffee and teas. Around since 1975, this is a spot to sit for a while – maybe even play a game of chess – and enjoy the quiet life for a bit. There’s a selection of gifts, greeting cards and teas to take with you as you go.   Coffee Cat – 1201 Anacapa St., SB, 93101, 805.962.7164 Right across from…

By Samantha Schindler   We’re lucky here in SoCal to be able to enjoy delicious food while being swept up in some of the best ocean views. You don’t have to dip your toes in the water or press into the sand if you don’t want to. Our beachfront restaurants provide diners with some of the most beautiful coastlines that Southern California has to offer. Here are a few of our favorites where you can enjoy the ocean while being spoiled with amazing food. Geoffrey’s in Malibu Perched on a romantic Malibu hillside, Geoffrey’s offers a spectacular view of the curving Southern California coastline. Its flower-filled patio is a romantic spot for a candlelight dinner or Sunday brunch. To avoid disappointment, make reservations because it books up quickly, especially in the summer months. SALT Restaurant and Bar in Marina del Rey Situated at the end of Bali Way, SALT is surrounded by views of the marina and its beautiful yachts. The main dining room is indoors with a lounge section offering happy hour at the bar, outdoor patio or communal table. But the romantic terrace with sunset vistas is the place to sit. SALT Restaurant & Bar is an ideal…

May is National Barbecue Month! There’s no better way to celebrate the beginning of summer than heading outdoors for a cookout with family and friends. Grilling is one of America’s favorite pastimes during the summer months, with a recent survey showing that 75% of U.S. adults own a grill or smoker, and that they prefer cooking out over eating out to save money (71%).   To celebrate National Barbecue Month, here are some cookout-ready recipes courtesy of Sparkling Ice – a lightly carbonated, zero-calorie beverage featuring bold flavors, perfect for incorporating into summer cooking and cocktailing.               Coconut Pineapple Skewers Ingredients: 1 bottle Coconut Pineapple Sparkling Ice ½ cup olive oil + extra to brush pineapple 2 teaspoons harissa paste or other spicy chili sauce (like Siracha) ½ teaspoon salt 1 ¼ – 1 ½ lbs. chicken tenders 1 fresh pineapple – peeled, cut into 1½” chunks 2 cups cooked rice Toasted coconut for garnish, optional Cilantro for garnish, optional Special Equipment: 16 Wooden skewers for grilling Instructions: In large shallow baking dish combine Coconut Pineapple Sparkling Ice, olive oil, harissa, salt and stir to combine. Reserve 1/3 cup marinade for basting Add chicken tenders, turning to coat. Cover and let…

  Although best known for its beaches, laid-back lifestyle and celebrity sightings, Malibu has evolved over the years to include “world-class dining destination” to its list of credits. About two decades ago only a handful of fine restaurants could be found in Malibu, but now, even the most finicky foodie can be wowed by the eatery options along this magical beachside community. Here are a few you may want to visit next time you find yourself in Southern California driving northbound on the Pacific Coast Highway:  

  There is more than one reason to “go green.” One involves the year-round conservation of our planet. Another reason to wear the color happens only once a year on March 17—St. Patrick’s Day. If you’re a Southern California resident or traveler, So Cal Life Mag has you covered so you’re informed of five fabulous Irish pubs to visit and and indulge in the most heady Irish Car Bomb cocktails concocted! Do relish in the luck of the Irish, but please drink responsibly.   Dickie O’Neal’s Irish-American Family Pub & Restaurant 2155 N. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 (760) 325-2600, dickieoneal.com   If you’re looking for the slight unpredictability of a dive bar combined with the warmth of a neighborhood family environment, then this is the place to be! You can also order a delicious chicken pot pie to go with your drink, like a Black and Tan, or Bloody Mary, which is certified as being the best in Palm Springs!   Dargan’s Irish Pub and Restaurant 18 E. Ortega St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 568-0702, darganssb.com   This establishment prides itself on attracting the blue-collar demographic, who can mingle and munch about while watching sports or…

There’s nothing that quite hits the palate like a delicately crafted cupcake, replete with fluffy frosting and moist cake center. The right one will fill not only the stomach, but the heart, the very moment the tip of the tongue touches the billowy top. There are many a cupcake that satiates that unbridled urge to reach out at the elbow, but for fear of perilously high blood sugar, here are five Southern California-based shops—not named Sprinkles— for your perusal and consumption.