Strawberry Kabobs, Strawberry Nachos And Strawberry Tacos–Just Some Of The Tastes At The California Strawberry Festival, May 18 and 19
Fifty food and drink vendors will be at the festival, many with strawberry-themed offerings.
Festivalgoers can treat themselves to chocolate-covered strawberries, strawberry-topped funnel cakes, strawberry pizza, strawberry nachos, deep-fried strawberries, berry kabobs, strawberry tacos and strawberry beer and smoothies.
Yum! Big Flavor At This Year’s California Strawberry Festival, May 18 and 19
There is also strawberry-covered fried dough, strawberry kettle corn and strawberry lemonade.
“The food and drink list goes on and on,”
Michael Thompson
festival board member
“For $5, you can pile on strawberries and whipped cream as high as you can at our ‘build-your-own’ Strawberry Shortcake Experience.”
The Kabob Shack will offer a kabob skewer with fresh strawberries and a choice of bananas or brownie bites drizzled with white and brown chocolate. “We use about 120 flats of strawberries at the festival,” says Stacia Mizukawa, Kabob Shack owner. “Each kabob is made to order and chocolated right in front of the customer. Nothing is premade. We want the customer to experience everything firsthand.”
Many of the food and drink booths are run by volunteers. Buena Music Association is a nonprofit that raises funds to support the Buena High School music program. Its festival specialty is strawberry and whipped cream-topped funnel cakes.
“People love funnel cakes.
Even with all the other festival food,
last year, we made over 3,000,”
Angie Palacios
the association’s board president.
“Parents and students volunteer for our booth. It’s a wonderful experience for everyone and a great way to finish off the school year.”
The Oxnard Buddhist Temple has been serving chocolate-dipped strawberries at the festival for about 10 years. The booth sells about 20,000 chocolate-dipped strawberries over the two-day festival.
“Most of our strawberries are donated,” says Yoshi Usuki, a longtime volunteer. Shifts of 25 volunteers first melt chocolate in crock pots. The strawberries are dipped, put in cupcake holders and set on racks to cool. The strawberries are then sold individually and in three and six-packs.
Festival general admission is $15, active military with ID and family and seniors 62 and over, $10, youth ages 5 to 12, $8, and children 4 and under are free.
Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.CAStrawberryFestival.org or upon entry to the festival. A limited amount of parking is available onsite for $20 per vehicle.
Festival-goers are encouraged to use the free shuttles, which will run every 15 minutes to the festival from nearby locations in Oxnard and Ventura. Metrolink offers a $10 day pass, good for unlimited rides on the day of purchase, and up to three kids ages 17 and under ride free with each adult fare. The station is located next to the fairgrounds.
Festival hours are 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Sunday.
For more about the festival visit www.castrawberryfest.org or follow on Facebook and Instagram.
The California Strawberry Festival pays tribute to California’s $3 billion strawberry industry. Strawberries are Ventura County’s largest crop generating over $662million in value in 2022.
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LA Artist Victor Solomon Partners with Kendall-Jackson to Design NBA Co-Branded Wine Labels
Artist Victor Solomon Start Groundbreaking Partnership with Kendall-Jackson to Design NBA Co-Branded Wine Labels
Kendall-Jackson, renowned for producing America’s #1 selling Chardonnay and the NBA’s first official wine partner, is thrilled to announce a collaboration with celebrated artist and designer Victor Solomon, hailed for designing the NBA’s Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy.
Victor Solomon: Where Art Meets the NBA Hardwood
Victor Solomon is a Los Angeles-based contemporary artist who has carved out a unique niche at the intersection of art, design, and basketball culture. Known for his stunning, handcrafted works that reimagine iconic basketball symbols through the lens of luxury and fine art, Solomon has become a standout figure in the art world, particularly for his collaborations with the NBA. His work often explores the idea of basketball not just as a sport, but as a global cultural phenomenon, rich with symbolism, community, and artistry.
Solomon’s most notable project, “Literally Balling,” transforms traditional basketball hoops into breathtaking sculptures using materials like stained glass, crystal, and 24K gold. These pieces elevate the everyday aesthetic of the game into something sacred, almost cathedral-like, highlighting the deep reverence many fans hold for basketball. Beyond gallery installations, Solomon has worked directly with the NBA, designing custom trophies, court art, and luxury installations that blend the sport’s raw energy with high-end craftsmanship.
His artistry extends beyond aesthetics—Solomon’s work often reflects the evolution of basketball as a symbol of aspiration, community, and resilience. Whether through a stained glass backboard or a reimagined championship trophy, he bridges the gap between the streets and the art world, honoring the game’s history while pushing creative boundaries. In a league where storytelling is key, Victor Solomon’s art tells the NBA’s story through a lens of beauty, craftsmanship, and cultural significance.
Artist Victor Solomon Start Groundbreaking Partnership with Kendall-Jackson
This collaboration, rooted in mutual connections with the NBA, will feature Solomon’s artistic vision in designing the labels for the league’s first co-branded wines with Kendall-Jackson in Sonoma County, California.
The partnership will officially kick off during NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco, where Kendall-Jackson and Solomon will unveil the wine label designs at NBA Crossover, a multi-day fan fest event that celebrates basketball culture, part of All-Star Weekend, taking place in San Francisco February 14 – 16, 2025. Kendall-Jackson will launch a co-branded Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon, a Monterey County Chardonnay and a Lake County Sauvignon Blanc in August 2025.
“When we partnered with the NBA, we set out to uniquely blend the culture of wine with the excitement of the game,”
Chris Jackson
Co-Proprietor of Kendall-Jackson
“We are excited to partner with Victor Solomon and bring his extraordinary talents in connecting art with sports culture to the look of our first NBA co-branded wines. This partnership is a natural fit as we expand our relationship with the league and continue to explore unique ways to engage our audiences.”
The partnership brings together Kendall-Jackson’s legacy of craftsmanship and Solomon’s signature design aesthetic, which blends traditional artistry with modern inspirations. Victor Solomon’s prior work—including his acclaimed “Literally Balling” series that reimagines basketball through the lens of stained glass and fine craftsmanship—has earned him a reputation for pushing the boundaries of design in sports and culture.
“My work has always been about elevating the artistry within sport,”
Victor Solomon
“Partnering with Kendall-Jackson allows me to extend that vision by creating and celebrating a shared spirit of craftsmanship. My work has included collaborations with the NBA on bespoke trophies and immersive installations that celebrate the league’s iconic legacy. Through the tactile beauty of a wine label, this collaboration offers an opportunity to unite these worlds in a meaningful way.”
Solomon’s meticulous design process involves months of research and hands-on experimentation to craft pieces that are both visually stunning and deeply resonant. Recent projects include a Swarovski crystal basketball installation for the NBA’s 75th Anniversary celebration and his “Journey” sculpture series, which explores the evolution of the game through iconic materials. Upcoming works include collaborations with international museums and luxury brands, and a court refurbishing project throughout California, further cementing his role as a leader at the intersection of art and sports.
For more information about this partnership, visit www.kj.com/NBA. Follow Kendall-Jackson on all social platforms with handle @KJWines.
Join Us: DTLA’s Boomtown Brewery Celebrates 10th Anniversary Feb 21 – 23 with 3 days of Craft Beer, Food, Fun
Join Us: DTLA’s Boomtown Brewery Celebrates 10th Anniversary Feb 21 – 23 with 3 days of Craft Beer, Food, Fun
Boomtown Brewery, L.A.’s iconic craft beer haven nestled in the heart of the DTLA Arts District, is pulling out all the stops to celebrate 10 Years of brewing excellence with an unforgettable Boomtown Brewery 10th Anniversary Weekend!
Boomtown Brewery 10th Anniversary Weekend Feb 21 – 23
From Friday, February 21st through Sunday, February 23rd, 2025, beer lovers, locals, and visitors alike are invited to raise a glass (or several) in honor of a decade of incredible brews, community vibes, and epic events!
Patrons will enjoy three action-packed days of Craft Beer, Live Entertainment, LA’s Top Food Vendors, and good times.
Photo Credit: Nick Gingold / Craft Media LA
The Boomtown Tap Room—just steps from their cutting-edge brewery—will be buzzing with over eighteen Craft Beer selections, including fan favorites like BAD HOMBRE Mexican-Style Lager, Nose Job IPA, Chavez Ravine Hazy IPA, Mic Czech Pilsner, plus a rotating selection of styles including IPAs, Stouts, Sours, Gluten-free Seltzers, and more.
DTLA’s Boomtown Brewery’s Head Brewer Amber Sawicki // Photo Credit: Nick Gingold / Craft Media LA
With Head Brewer Amber Sawicki and Production Manager Benjamin Turkel leading the charge, guests can expect some exciting new releases to mark the occasion.
Friday, February 21st, 2025: Look-Alike Contest & Karaoke Kickoff (6:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
Come Dress as an LA Icon from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm and compete in Boomtown’s Look-Alike Contest!
Maybe we will see Fast & Furious-hero Dominic Toretto, pop sensation Billie Eilish, or Dodgers’ legend Fernando Valenzuela coming to the party and winners will receive a Boomtown Hat, Shirt, and Gift Card, with One Ultimate Winner crowned to receive a Boomtown Golden Glass Membership!
Food Vendors Correas Mariscos and Word of Mouth Truck will be onsite to fuel everyone up for Karaoke Night which will start at 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm, so step up to the mic and get $2 off your next beer just for belting out your favorite tune!
Saturday, February 22nd, 2025: The Official 10th Anniversary Party (12:00 PM – 1:00 AM)
It’s Boomtown Brewery’s 10th Birthday, and guests are invited to partake in everything Boomtown has to offer!
Sip on a full lineup of new and innovative Craft Beers while enjoying a showcase of Live Bands, Stand-Up Comedy, and Trivia from the afternoon until late at night.
Food Vendors Taqueria Frontera and Vegan Hooligans will be serving all day and night, and Tripp Burger will be serving from 6:00 pm to 12:00 Midnight. At 9:00 pm, The Funk Freaks will perform, getting everyone on their feet to dance the night away.
Sunday, February 23rd, 2025: Boomtown Brewery 10th Anniversary: INFMS Beer Hip Hop Concert & Hazy Panda IPA Beer Release (6:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
Boomtown Brewery and INFMS Beer team up once again to bring the best Hip Hop show in town, featuring the return of the Hazy Panda IPA!
Boomtown will be open to the public from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 pm. Boomtown will close briefly before reopening at 6:00 PM for ticketed guests attending Boomtown Brewery’s 10 Anniversary – INFMS Beer
Hip Hop Concert & Exclusive Beer Release featuring DJ Nu-Mark (Member of Jurassic 5), Bad Neighbor (Blu & MED), DJ C-Los, DJ Mishaps, Psycho Les & Big Twins, and Food Vendor The Wingman Official, and more.
Photo Credit: Nick Gingold / Craft Media LA
This is a 21+ Event and Tickets are required.
There is limited availability, so Get Yours Now here at Boomtown Brewery’s 10th Anniversary: INFMS Beer Hip Hop Concert & Beer Release.
BOOMTOWN BREWERY: A DECADE OF COMMUNITY, CREATIVITY & CRAFT BEER:
Since its inception, Boomtown Brewery has proudly represented Los Angeles, creating unfiltered, full-flavored craft beers with integrity. As a fixture in the DTLA Arts District, Boomtown is more than just a brewery—it’s a community hub for artists, makers, and beer lovers to connect and celebrate the creative spirit of the city.
From live music and trivia nights to open mic events and food festivals, Boomtown Brewery continues to bring people together in meaningful, memorable ways.
Photo Credit: Nick Gingold / Craft Media LA
As they celebrate this milestone, the team behind Boomtown Brewery—Owners John Rankin, Alex Kagianaris, and Samuel “Chewy” Chawinga—invite you to be part of the magic.
So, mark your calendars, spread the word, and come toast to 10 years of Boomtown Brewery!
Boomtown Brewery’s 10th Anniversary Celebration will take place Friday, February 21st, 2025, through Sunday, February 23rd, 2025, with Saturday, February 22nd, 2025, being their official 10th Anniversary Celebration, from 12:00 noon to 1:00 am. Saturday, February 22nd is a 21+ Event after 8:00 pm and this event is Free to attend, and no tickets are needed.
For more information and to purchase Tickets to Boomtown Brewery’s 10th Anniversary: INFMS Beer Hip Hop Concert & Beer Release on Sunday, February 23rd, 2025, please visit Boomtown Brewery’s 10th Anniversary: INFMS Beer Hip Hop Concert & Beer Release!
Cheers to 10 years of Boomtown Brewery—here’s to many more!
Social Media: Follow Boomtown Brewery on Instagram @boomtowmbrewery, Facebook @Boomtown.Brewery, andTikTok @Boomtown.Brewery
Boomtown Brewery
700 Jackson Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
T: 213.617.8497
Los Angeles Superbowl Parties: Best Places to Watch the Super Bowl LIX in Los Angeles: Top Bars, Rooftops, and Watch Parties
Celebrate the Superbowl with parties in Los Angeles at the Best Places to Watch the Super Bowl LIX in Los Angeles: Top Bars, Rooftops, and Watch Parties
Super Bowl LIX is shaping up to be an epic showdown, and there are plenty of reasons to be excited—especially for football fans in Los Angeles.
The game will be played at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans in 2025, bringing the championship back to one of the most electric football cities in the country. With potential powerhouse teams in contention, star quarterbacks in their prime, and evolving offensive schemes redefining the game, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Plus, the Super Bowl’s return to New Orleans means an unmatched atmosphere, with a city known for its legendary food, music, and nightlife turning the event into a week-long festival. Whether you’re watching for the game, halftime show, or just the excuse to throw an epic party, Super Bowl LIX is set to deliver in every way.
Now if you’re not interested in all the sports socializing, and would rather stay home, don’t worry — Super Bowl LIX is airing live on FOX, and Kendrick’s performance will be available on Tubi, NFL+, the NFL mobile app, and SiriusXM. The halftime performance will showcase Kendrick’s iconic raps, and SZA will be joining him as well.
The Ultimate Super Bowl LIX Food and Drink Pairings
The Super Bowl is as much about the food and drinks as it is about the game, with fans across the country indulging in classic comfort foods paired with the perfect beverages.
Buffalo wings and ice-cold beer are the undisputed MVPs of game-day dining—whether it’s a crisp lager, a hoppy IPA, or a smooth wheat beer, the carbonation and bitterness help cut through the heat of the spicy wings.
Nachos piled high with cheese, jalapeños, and seasoned meat call for a refreshing margarita or a Mexican lager, both of which enhance the bold flavors while keeping the palate refreshed.
For barbecue lovers, smoky pulled pork sandwiches or ribs are best paired with a bourbon-based cocktail like an Old Fashioned or a rich, malty brown ale to complement the deep, caramelized flavors.
For those who prefer snacks that are easy to grab between plays, loaded potato skins or classic onion dip with chips pair well with a smooth pilsner or a light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to balance the richness. If pizza is on the menu—another Super Bowl staple—a medium-bodied red wine like Zinfandel or a classic pale ale enhances the tangy tomato sauce and gooey cheese.
On the sweeter side, chocolate chip cookies or brownies go great with a dark stout or a creamy espresso martini, making for a winning dessert combo. No matter who you’re rooting for, the right food and drink pairings make the Super Bowl an even more enjoyable experience, ensuring that every bite and sip is as satisfying as a game-winning touchdown.
Superbowl with parties in Los Angeles
Now, on to the L.A. Super Bowl watch parties…
Grandmaster Recorders to Watch Super Bowl LIX
Grandmaster Recorders is the place to be for the Super Bowl, offering two incredible spaces to catch the big game. Their rooftop bash is legendary, letting you soak in all the action with the Hollywood Sign as your backdrop, making for a one-of-a-kind viewing experience.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Downstairs at Studio 71, you’ll find a cozy, dark ambiance with a state-of-the-art sound system and massive screen, perfect for an immersive game-day vibe. Whether you’re looking for high-energy rooftop views or an intimate, cinematic football experience, Grandmaster Recorders delivers an unforgettable way to watch the Super Bowl.
Learn more: Grandmaster Recorders
Location: 1518 N Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Paragon Bar and Grill
Paragon Bar and Grill, a favorite in the 818, is the go-to spot for an epic Super Bowl watch party every year. With delicious food, a huge selection of beers on tap, and bucket specials, it’s the perfect place to kick back and enjoy the game with fellow fans.
But the fun doesn’t stop at food and drinks—giveaways and special promotions make the atmosphere even more exciting, so it feels like everyone walks away a winner. Whether you’re there for the football, the food, or just the electric energy, Paragon Bar and Grill knows how to throw a Super Bowl party done right.
Learn more: Paragon Bar and Grill
Location: 8319 Louise Ave, Northridge, CA 91325
Barney’s Beanery to watch Super Bowl LIX
All Barney’s Beanery locations across Los Angeles are turning into the ultimate Super Bowl hotspots, with the game playing on 40+ TVs and multiple projectors with full sound. No matter where you sit, you’ll have a prime view of all the action.
With their lively atmosphere, great food, and plenty of drinks to go around, Barney’s is the perfect place to post up with friends and watch every play, touchdown, and commercial. Whether you’re there for the game or just the good vibes, you won’t miss a moment of the action!
Locations:
- Santa Monica: 1351 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA
- West Hollywood: 8447 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA
- Pasadena: 99 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105
- Burbank: 250 N 1st St, Burbank, CA 91502
3rd Base
3rd Base is bringing sports fans the ultimate Super Bowl bash, combining upscale dining, craft cocktails, and their famous two-tier tequila trees for a next-level game-day experience. Whether you’re there for the big plays or just the top-notch food and drinks, this spot knows how to do game day right.
This year, they’re offering general admission, seat reservations, and table reservations, so you can lock in your spot for the action. Just keep in mind—food and beverage minimums apply, but with their killer menu and drink selection, meeting the minimum won’t be a problem!
Learn more: 3rd Base
Location: 1562 N Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Best Places to Watch Super Bowl LIX in Los Angeles
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Dita Von Teese Brings the world’s biggest burlesque show, ‘Glamonatrix’ to Los Angeles in 2023
Dita Von Teese announced that she will be bringing the world’s biggest burlesque show, ‘Glamonatrix’ to North America next year.
Produced by Live Nation, the 21-date tour kicks off on January 7th, 2023, in Seattle, WA at the Paramount Theatre, making stops across North America in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New Orleans, New York, and more along with a special performance on Valentine’s Day at The Chicago Theatre.
The tour hits three cities in Texas, plus Dita’s home state of Michigan, with a finale show in Riverside, CA at the Fox Performing Arts Center on February 24th.
Dita’s burlesque show continues to break records as the biggest and most lavish burlesque show in history.
Dita Von Teese is About Confidence
Hot on the heels of her 41-show tour overseas in historic theaters, including The London Palladium, Opera Garnier Monte Carlo, Folies Bergère and Vienna’s Burgtheatre, Dita is thrilled to bring the Glamonatrix burlesque revue to cities across the United States and Canada.
The Glamonatrix Tour is produced and directed by Dita Von Teese
and sponsored by Sweet Gwendoline French Gin and Lashify.com, inventor of DIY Lash extensions.
“For me, burlesque has always been about finding my own confidence,
liberating the taboo of striptease with fantastical stripscapes,
while encouraging others to indulge in and enjoy their own sensuality.
Glamour is the art of creating mystery and allure,
and the new “Glamonatrix” show speaks to unapologetic sensual power with a fun fetishistic twist.”
says Von Teese.
She continues, “I feel so fortunate that burlesque has come to symbolize a celebration of beauty and sensuality in many forms, a place where diversified icons take the stage and inspire others. I’m proud to be a part of the modern burlesque movement and I’m grateful to have the chance to tour with performers who change people’s minds about striptease.”
TICKETS: Tickets go on sale to the general public starting Friday, September 16th at 10:00 AM Local Time on Ticketmaster.com.
PRESALE: Citi is the official card of the Glamonatrix Tour. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets beginning Tuesday, September 13 at 11:00 AM ET through Thursday, September 15th at 10:00 PM local time through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com.
GLAMONTRIX 2023 TOUR DATES
Sat Jan 07 – Seattle, WA – Paramount Theatre
Tue Jan 10 – Vancouver, BC – Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Fri Jan 13 – San Francisco, CA – Palace of Fine Arts
Sat Jan 14 – San Francisco, CA – Palace of Fine Arts
Sun Jan 15 – San Francisco, CA – Palace of Fine Arts
Tue Jan 17 – Portland, OR – Keller Auditorium
Fri Jan 20 – Dallas, TX – Majestic Theatre
Sun Jan 22 – Austin, TX – Paramount Theatre
Tue Jan 24 – Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center
Fri Jan 27 – New Orleans, LA – Orpheum Theatre
Sun Jan 29 – Atlanta, GA – Tabernacle
Thu Feb 02 – Washington, DC – Warner Theatre
Sat Feb 4 – Toronto, ON – Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Tue Feb 7 – Montreal, QC – Theatre Maisonneuve
Thu Feb 09 – New York City, NY – Beacon Theatre
Sat Feb 11 – Boston, MA – Orpheum Theatre
Tue Feb 14 – Chicago, IL – Chicago Theatre
Thu Feb 16 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore Detroit
Sat Feb 18 – Louisville, KY – The Louisville Palace
Wed Feb 22 – El Cajon, CA – The Magnolia
Fri Feb 24 – Riverside, CA – Fox Performing Arts CenterGlamonatrix is a full evening of comedy and sophisticated striptease celebrating diverse beauty and individuality. Far from being a typical burlesque show, Dita elevates and modernizes the classic 1940’s variety show in an inspiring and uplifting way. Always ahead of the curve, Dita’s show casting has consistently been inclusive and multi-faceted, showcasing the talents of male, female, and gender-fluid performers from around the world to create a body-positive, celebratory show like no other.
As the consummate performer in modern burlesque, Von Teese’s exhilarating live shows are world-renowned and draw fans from every corner of the globe. With over a million tickets sold, and an unprecedented quality of production in burlesque, it is clear why Von Teese’s self-produced tours are the gold standard of the modern burlesque revival, with devoted fans that include A-list celebrities.
The uber-glamorous variety show presents extravagant new production numbers from Dita and the cast, with costumes created by Jenny Packham, Mister Pearl, Alexis Mabille, Catherine D’Lish and more. Shoe aficionados will delight in the extraordinary bespoke fetish footwear by Christian Louboutin, some of which are currently on display as part of the Louboutin “L’Exhibition(iste)” in Monaco.
The Glamonatrix show showcases the most revered performers in burlesque, including the legendary Dirty Martini. Dita’s dapperVontourage and choreographer Alek Palinski returns to the stage, along with fan-favorite Zelia Rose, one of the lead performers of Hamilton Australia. Dita is also pleased to introduce showstopping newcomer Lana Kai Fox, along with Tosca Rivola and Laszlo Major. Jonny McGovern of “Hey Qween!” and “Go-Go for the Gold” returns as host, due to popular demand from fans around the world. Dita will also be joined in select cities by special guests, including three time ballroom world champion Umario Diallo partnering Dita in a fiery striptease Latin dance.
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Cuyama Buckhorn brings back Famous ‘Jonathan Gold’ Ostrich Burger 30 years later
Cuyama Buckhorn brings back Famous ‘Jonathan Gold’ Ostrich Burger 30 years later
High Desert’s Cuyama Buckhorn brings back Famous ‘Jonathan Gold’ Ostrich Burger 30 years later
Thirty years ago, then Chief Food Critic of the Los Angeles Times, Jonathan Gold ventured out to New Cuyama because he’d heard that Cuyama Buckhorn was serving Ostrich Burgers and he was set on trying one.
“Paris has the Eiffel Tower, Agra has the Taj Mahal . . . and New Cuyama has the ostrich burger”
His review, “Which Came First?…” was about his visit to this remote roadside motel in California’s high desert to experience the burger.
“Paris has the Eiffel Tower, Agra has the Taj Mahal . . . and New Cuyama has the ostrich burger,” the article began.
In the past few years, Cuyama Buckhorn has once again become a destination worth driving to, and not just for the novelty of ordering an Ostrich Burger.
Guests now come for the accommodations and the amenities this modern resort now has to offer. Whether it be to experience the culinary offerings and local farm-to-table fare, or to have a beverage at the Buckhorn Bar where some of the state’s best cocktails are being made, the resort is notable for much more than ostrich burgers these days.
In honor of Jonathan Gold, and the thirtieth anniversary of his visit to this remote outpost just two hours from Los Angeles, the Ostrich burger will be making a comeback– and an elevated one at that on what would have been Gold’s birthday, July 28th.
The new Ostrich Burger, the Ostrich Smash ($28) is made with Ground Ostrich, Molasses Onions, and Santa Barbara Cheese Company’s Sheep’s Milk Gouda served on toasted Rye bread and a side of pickled vegetables.
As Gold remarked:
“To be honest, the only point in eating an ostrich burger
may be to be able to say that you’ve eaten an ostrich burger…
Ostrich burgers may not be much of a tourist attraction,
but how many times can you visit the Louvre?”
WHEN:
Burger will be available starting July 28, 2023, Jonathan Gold’s birthday
PRICING:
Burger – $28
T-shirt – $28
WHERE:
4923 Primero Street, New Cuyama, CA 93254
Cuyama Buckhorn is located 1 hour east of Santa Maria, and 2 hours north of Los Angeles.
INFO:
Call (661) 766-2825 or visit https://www.cuyamabuckhorn.com/to reserve
E-mail: hello@cuyamabuckhorn.com
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Former NBA Star Tony Parker knows the future of the Rose’ Revolution; and shares his Dinner Party Secrets, French Summer Escapes
NBA Hall of Famer Tony Parker shares his dinner party secrets, favorite french summer escapes and the future of the Rose’ Revolution.
In his incredible basketball career, Tony Parker earned four NBA Championships with the San Antonio Spurs, was selected for six All-Star teams and named MVP of the 2007 Finals.
But these days, his passion for food and wine is keeping him even more inspired.
Starting as a boy growing up in France, the memorable dinner parties he hosted during his NBA days, his summer escapes to French Vineyards during the off-season.
It’s no surprise that now he diving into the French wine world, buying Château La Mascaronne in Provence with legendary business partner Michel Reybier.
A magnificent adventure for the next vintage of his life’s journey.
Château La Mascaronne Rose’ COURTESY OF CHÂTEAU LA MASCARONNE
Today I sat down with Tony Parker (over audio-only speakerphone) for a conversation about dinner parties, french vacation, getting busy in vineyards, and the future of Rose’ wine.
The conversation has been edited for length and clarity. The full conversation can be found on our YouTube channel.
Also, the podcast version is here:
You’ve been diving into the world of winemaking with Michel Reybier and his team. Can you talk a little bit about the adventure, any surprises or lessons?
It’s been amazing. I always wanted to invest in a project like that. The first time I tried wine was when I was 17 years old. I wanted to keep learning about it and get my knowledge better around the wine world. And so when I was 19, I finally made enough money to afford all those great wines.
I was lucky enough to play for a coach who loved wine, had a huge collection, was reading wine magazines every trip. And so that’s how we bonded. As I got better, in my knowledge of wine, I started to invite all the best [people] in San Antonio to come to do a nice dinner at my house with Coach Popovich, and then the next day I would invite them to a Spurs game.
Château La Mascaronne COURTESY OF CHÂTEAU LA MASCARONNE
Then during the summer I started making trips to the vineyard. I started to know them better. Because in the wine world, obviously, you have great families. They’re super passionate. And that’s how I started; working on my allocation and the good bottles, the Reserves.
Tony Parker and Michel Reybier – SEBASTIEN CLAVEL
When I retired I wanted to be more involved. But it’s very hard to invest in the wine business because it’s either in the family for generations and generations. Those big companies buy everything. And so I was very lucky, through mutual friends I met Mr. Reybier and after talking for six or eight months, we decided to become partners. Now I’m a proud Owner / Ambassador / Everything.
You mentioned the wine dinners you had in San Antonio. Just for us massive foodies, can you help us fantasize for a moment?
What kind of food was served? What kind of wines were poured? Can you take us back to those nights?
I had a private chef. My private chef would work with the vineyard. We tell them who’s coming, how many people, which bottles and what year they will send us.
Then they will work with my staff to make sure we make a menu accordingly, to make sure that everything is matched with what we are drinking.
So when the [dinner party] came to my house, we tried [the vintages] 1969, 1982, 2000 and 2009. It was unbelievable. Great bottles, great vintages.
And for me, I’m very lucky too because I’m born in 1982 and it’s one of the best years for wine, especially in Bordeaux. So every time I visit a castle in Bordeaux, the employees are always super happy because it’s a good opportunity for them, as the owner, to open an ‘82 [vintage].
Most of the time, they’ll come and say thank you to me, saying it’s [their] first time trying an ‘82 [vintage]. Because nowadays, they don’t open those 82’s a lot.
You’ve hinted at your sports background, obviously you have become a master. Is there any lesson that you mastered in sports that you’ve brought into the wine world with you?
The passion and the work ethic. Obviously in the wine world I will never try to be and talk like a Sommelier, they studied for that. Even if I have good knowledge and I’ve been working with vineyards. And I’m learning all the time, especially since I’ve been owning vineyards. I did Harvest. I did the assemblage. Which is when you try all the possible [options], and you decide what the wine is going to be.
Tony Parker and Michel Reybier – SEBASTIEN CLAVEL
I’ve been working with great directors. Our director is unbelievable. The director at La Mascaronne, she’s great too. And so for me, it’s been great knowledge, and a great learning process to learn even more about wine.
What inspired you to choose the partner with Chateau La Mascaronne?
When I met him, I knew he was huge in the wine business and obviously it brings a lot of credibility when you work with somebody like Michel Reybier because he’s been at this for so long and he’s the owner of one of the best wines in the world with Château Cos d’Estournel.
That’s how I knew him and that was big time. When he talked about La Mascaronne, he bought it from Tom Bove.
Back in 2006, when I started going on vacation every summer, I started drinking Rose’ with my brothers and my friends. We love rose’ in the summer.
That’s when Miraval took off. Brad Pitt bought it with Angelina [Jolie]. He bought Miraval from Tom Bove.
Tony Parker at Château La Mascaronne COURTESY OF CHÂTEAU LA MASCARONNE
So [I thought] if Tom Bove hit that property perfectly with Miraval, for sure [it can happen] with La Mascaronne, it’s just a matter of time before we can do something amazing.
What’s next for you as far as the wine world goes?
Our premium rosé just came out from La Mascaronne. Only 3,000 bottles.
We’re working on more premium one’s now. I think that’s where things are going with rose’s. All these big companies and all the knowledge that they get from the red wines is coming into the Rosé world, where the Rosé is going to get better and better.
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