California is where we call home. Its diversity isn't just cultural; it's geographical, from the magical redwood forests of the north to the sunny beaches of the south. Its cities are melting pots, vibrant with culture, cuisine, and chill. Natural beauty abounds from Yosemite to Big Sur, Lake Tahoe to Santa Barbara. You can ski and surf in the same day and have 4 seasons in a week. The heart of creativity and innovation; a kaleidoscope of art, music, and tech. Have an idea or a dream? Come to California, people are nice & the sun always shines.

Northern California Favorites - Our Recommendations To Eat

China Live

Best elevated but casual Chinese food - dim sum, green beans & pork buns.

— Chinatown, San Francisco

Pineapple King

Pork buns, pineapple buns, coconut cream buns to die for.

— Sunset District, San Francisco

Phil’s Fish Market

Cioppino, bloody mary’s with shrimp, fish n chips. Long lines, worth the wait.

— Castroville / Monterey

Souvla

Greek potatoes, gyros & yogurt in the sunshine.

— Marin Country Mart, Larkspur

Poggio Trattoria

Great Italian, cozy booths. Nice wine & cocktails. Eloise’s favorite pasta & parm.

— Casa Madrona, Sausalito

Joe’s Taco Lounge

Simple, consistent & delicious.

— Mill Valley

Mister Jiu’s

Best innovative Chinese food and great bar. All the awards, Michelin *.

— Chinatown, San Francisco

House of Nanking

Best food, authentic dive atmosphere. Green beans and mongolian beef.

— China Town, San Francisco

Nick’s Cove

Fish n chips is all you need. Well appointed cabins on site.

— Tamales Bay

Parkside

Loaded fries, tacos, milkshakes, smoothies with the best view.

— Stinson Beach

Sushi Ran

Favorite Japanese food. A real treat.

— Caledonia St, Sausalito

Dalida

Modern Mediterranean, great cocktails.

— The Presidio, SF

Hays Place

Fancy Cali-Mexican. Nachos, tortilla soup & strong drinks with the best view in town.

— Pebble Beach

Stokes Adobe

All you need is a cocktail & the roasted potatoes. Tucked in a charming little adobe house.

— Pacific Grove

California Favorites - Recommendations To Drink & Stay

Wineries:

  • Scribe, Sonoma - Tastings & special events. Reservations recommended. Rosé, chardonnay, pinot.

  • Ridge, Healdsburg - Best zins, big cabs, smooth pinots. Sustainably made.

  • Bella, Dry Creek - Great tours. Known for their zins.

  • Lynmar, Russian River - Outdoor tasting, gardens, truffle popcorn. Nice chardonnays & pinots.

Surrey Resort Guerneville

A few favorite outings (Nor Cal)

Great redwood hike: Baltimore Canyon (Barbara Springs to Dawns Falls loop). Under 2 hours, moderate. Muir Woods is also great but requires a shuttle and reservations everyday.

Amazing views hike: Matt Davis to Steep Ravine (top of Mt Tam to Stinson Beach and back). Lunch at Parkside. 4 hours, moderate+.

Favorite bike loop: Kentfield to Bolinas via Sir Francis Drake, home via Bolinas Ridge.

A nice day out: rent bikes at Demo Sport and take the Tiburon Ferry to Angel Island. Pack a picnic & a beach bag - or camping gear.

Kayak or SUP in Sausalito: SeaTrek - see the seals, birds, houseboats, fancy boats. Eat at Fish.

To stay (off the beaten path):