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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This Halloween in LA: Scary-good whiskies: J. Mattingly 1845 Welcomes Fall with New Whiskey Offerings
Scary-good whiskies this Halloween: J. Mattingly 1845 Welcomes Fall with New Whiskey Offerings
J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery is debuting scary-good whiskies this fall, with its first fall spiced Bourbon 31 Blended Bourbon and the ability to customize your own whiskey for your Halloween festivities through its J. Mattingly 1845 craft your bottle program.
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Bourbon 31 Blended Bourbon is a play on the brand’s Bourbon 30 Bourbon brand and this limited-edition release was created for the Halloween season.
Bourbon 31 is a blend of three whiskies which have all undergone J. Mattingly 1845’s Double Staving™ process and the blend consists of 51 percent Bourbon, 29 percent Light Whiskey and 20 percent Rye Whiskey. Double Staving is a proprietary process used by J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery that gives the whiskey inside the barrels additional surface exposure to charred barrel staves to impart more flavor and color.
The Double Staved Classic Bourbon used in this blend has just scored a 96 from famed Whiskey Bible author Jim Murray.
The Bourbon 31 Blended Bourbon was created by J. Mattingly 1845’s team of expert blenders to reflect the flavors typically associated with fall. “When we blended these three whiskies, we were looking for a flavor profile that reflects flavors typically associated with fall, such as pumpkin and cinnamon while matching the light-hearted fun we’re having by changing the brand name from Bourbon 30 to Bourbon 31 to celebrate the Halloween season,” said Harry Richart, president, J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery.
Tasting notes for this bourbon describe it as having a nose of nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla and walnut, with the flavors of brown sugar, cinnamon, and fall baking spices on the palate. On the finish, pumpkin bread, baker’s chocolate and seasoned oak are prevalent.
Bourbon 31 is available online and at the J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery in Frankfort, KY. Suggested retail pricing is $60 for a 750 mL and it is 98 proof.
J. Mattingly 1845 Custom Whiskey Program is the “Choose Your Own Adventure” of the whiskey world by allowing the buyer to choose between double staved™ bourbon, light whiskey or rye whiskey recipes, select their bottle shape, customize their own label, and even choose their own wax color from every color of the rainbow! This program is available online and in person at the Distillery and can result in some frighteningly fun labels and Halloween-themed wax colors. Imagine expressing your innermost devilish (or angelic) thoughts on the bourbon bottle you give your favorite boo.
Pricing for the custom bottles start at $120 for a 750 mL bottle and shipping is available to 46 states.
About J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery
The Mattingly family has been synonymous with distilling in Kentucky for more than two centuries, having a hand in the development of at least nine separate distilleries in the Commonwealth.
It all started in 1845, with John Graves Mattingly’s first distillery in Marion County, Kentucky, Registered Distillery #2.
In 2010 Jeff Mattingly took up the family mantle and started his own craft bourbon business. Today, Jeff’s son Cameron has joined the team as Vice President of Production, continuing the legacy into the latest generation for J. Mattingly Distillery 1845 in Frankfort, Kentucky. Together father and son offer their proprietary double staving process as well as a custom bourbon blending experience unparalleled in the spirits industry, available on-site in Frankfort or online at https://jmattingly1845.com/build-a-bottle/
LA wants “Indulgence without compromise” Dairy-free, plant-based: OATRAGEOUS Oat Milk Liqueur
Dairy-free, plant-based: OATRAGEOUS Oat Milk Liqueur from the Makers of Misunderstood Whiskey Co.
OATRAGEOUS Oat Milk Liqueur proudly announces the launch of its innovative, dairy-free cream liqueur line, setting a new standard in the cream liqueur category. Crafted with the highest quality ingredients, OATRAGEOUS offers a plant-based alternative that is free from dairy, gluten, lactose, high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, and seed oils.
OATRAGEOUS is proudly the first portfolio of Oat Milk Liqueurs to hit shelves in the United States.
“We couldn’t be more excited to share OATRAGEOUS with the world,”
JD Recobs
Co-Founder of OATRAGEOUS.
“There are a lot of consumers out there who want to enjoy cream inspired products but are limited by dietary restrictions, lifestyle choices, or simple taste preferences.”
OATRAGEOUS will debut three core SKUs this fall: Coconut, Espresso, and the world’s first Dairy-Free Bourbon Cream (14% ABV).
OATRAGEOUS Oat Milk Liqueur is designed for those who seek indulgence without compromise. OATRAGEOUS delivers a light, smooth, and creamy experience while boasting less sugar and fewer calories versus traditional cream liqueurs. The expressions are crafted with 100% sustainably sourced, non-GMO oats, smooth bourbon whiskey and real ingredients.
“We are thrilled to be able to open doors for consumers by giving them delicious, dairy-free options that are produced transparently and made with significantly less sugar compared to what is currently available on the market,” added Co-Founder Chris Buglisi.
While OATRAGEOUS is best enjoyed simply chilled or over ice, the products are a great base for dairy-free alternative cocktails such as the Dairy-Free Espresso Martinis (or EspressOAT Martinis) and Dairy-Free Pina Coladas!
“We aspire to create exceptional products that prioritize both people and the planet,” said Emily Recobs, Co-Founder of OATRAGEOUS. “With a commitment to sustainability, we carefully craft every bottle using clean, high-quality ingredients, keeping the environment in mind every step of the way.”
Key Features:
- Bourbon Based Cream Liqueur: Made with premium bourbon whiskey; distilled at the historic old Seagrams distillery by Ross & Squibb Distillery (MGP) in Lawrenceburg, Indiana.
- Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free: Perfect for those with lactose intolerance, choosing a dairy-free lifestyle and with gluten sensitivities.
- Plant-Based & Vegan-Friendly: A delightful option for those following plant-based diets.
- Made With Clean Ingredients: No seed oils, high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners. Kosher.
- Less Sugar & Calories: OATRAGEOUS contains 30% less sugar & calories than the leading cream liqueur brands. Proudly only 100 calories per 1.5 oz serving.
- Sustainably Sourced: Committed to environmental responsibility, using non-GMO oats.
- Transparently Produced: The company proudly discloses nutrition facts on their website.
Core SKUs:
- Coconut (14% ABV) – A tropical delight with the smooth, creamy taste of real coconut.
- Espresso (14% ABV) – A rich, bold flavor infused with the essence of Arabica espresso.
- Bourbon Cream (14% ABV) – A classic, luxurious blend of small batch bourbon whiskey and dairy free oat milk cream.
Availability and Pricing:
OATRAGEOUS will retail at $27.99 and be available for sale nationally online (www.drinkoatrageous.com) and in liquor stores in select markets including: FL, MA, NJ, NY, and TX.
About OATRAGEOUS Oat Milk Liqueurs
OATRAGEOUS Oat Milk Liqueur was created to bring fun, innovative dairy-free cream liqueurs to the world with a focus on quality and sustainability. OATRAGEOUS is a brand of Buglisi Recobs Group, also owner of Misunderstood Whiskey Company, a NJ based innovative whiskey brand delivering approachable spirits to its customer base which includes its Ginger Spiced Whiskey and America’s Original Dairy Free Oat Nog seasonal release.
Lakers Fans: Basketball legend Introduces ‘Hennessy Limited Edition by LeBron James’, available September 30
Lakers Fans: Basketball legend Introduces ‘Hennessy Limited Edition by LeBron James’, available September 30
Hennessy, the world’s leading cognac, and basketball legend LeBron James are proud to unveil ‘Hennessy Limited Edition by LeBron James’ – a V.S bottle collaboration available globally starting on September 30, 2024.
This first-time collaboration between Hennessy and LeBron James unites two giants in their respective fields and brings an unexpected twist to fans and the industry alike. Their mutual respect, shared drive for excellence and commitment to pushing boundaries makes this partnership a celebration of greatness and serves as a reminder that Hennessy is made for more.
“As an admirer of Hennessy and its iconic brand, I’ve always appreciated its commitment to basketball and how it celebrates the sport’s influence on and off the court,”
lebron James
“I was fortunate enough to visit the Maison in Cognac a while back, and seeing the care and craftsmanship that go into creating each bottle was pretty incredible. This collaboration represents a shared sense of dedication and discovery coming to life for everyone to enjoy.”
Hennessy Limited Edition by LeBron James
The limited-edition bottle features fresh, vibrant and distinctive designs which nod to James’ impact on and off the court. Both the bottle and gift box showcase an illustrative portrait of James in purple and orange. The iconic Hennessy Bras Armé is reimagined, sporting a sleeve as a tribute to James and intertwined with his trademark crown. The blend will remain the same and continue to deliver on the bold, yet smooth character that has made Hennessy V.S one of the most popular cognacs in the world.
Hennessy Limited Edition by LeBron James
“We are elated to officially welcome LeBron James to the Hennessy family after many years of mutual admiration and friendship,” said Antoine Varlet, Senior Vice President, Hennessy U.S. “LeBron is not just a basketball star, but someone who redefines boundaries in sport, style, culture and beyond. This partnership is more than just a collaboration, it’s a statement about what’s possible when two cultural icons come together.”
Hennessy Limited Edition by LeBron James
To highlight the cognac’s versatility, James put a fresh twist on the Hennessy Margarita cocktail featuring Hennessy V.S, lime juice, orange liqueur, orange juice and agave syrup. The addition of orange juice comes directly from James, inspired by a recent tasting experience in Cognac where he experienced the different possibilities of the spirit and discovered that Hennessy is enjoyed more than just neat, complementing a wide range of serves. This follows the release of Hennessy’s “Made for more” campaign, which shows how any drink or occasion can be made ‘more’ when you add Hennessy. Find the full recipe on hennessy.com.
The ‘Hennessy Limited Edition by LeBron James’ V.S will be available for purchase starting September 30, 2024.
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Beetlejuice Beetlejuice this Halloween? Everyday is Halloween at Los Angeles’ Beetle House LA
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice this Halloween? Everyday is Halloween at Los Angeles‘ Beetle House LA
Welcome to the most strange and unusual dining experience in California. Stop by and guests will enjoy darkly delicious meals, and haunting bubbling cocktails in a fully immersive year-round Halloween spectacle.
Those wayward mortals who cross the threshold into the afterlife will be entertained by ghastly sights and sounds. There are sights to see, frights to have, and tricks and treats galore!
Beetle House is a year-round celebration of Halloween, with a thematic atmosphere inspired by horror culture, magic, and the artistic, literary, and cinematic works of many revered legends such as Washington Irving, Bram Stoker, Edgar Allan Poe, Wes Craven, Tim Burton and many others.
It’s like an adult Halloween party with a Burtonesque feel, a dash of a 90s goth band, a touch of emo, and a diabolical dose of cosplay.
A safe place where every goth, punk, freak, weirdo, artist, and visitor is welcomed and celebrated.
Beetle House was created by Zach Neil and opened as a pop-up restaurant in New York City in April of 2016 and in Los Angeles in 2017. Due to its demand, Beetle House lives, haunts, and thrives to this day and will for as long as you will keep coming.
But be warned, Beetle house is not affiliated with or in partnership with any one specific, film, studio, Producer, or television program. All of their productions are inspired by or parody versions or original creations, and in no way should be misconstrued as a direct affiliation or partnership with any film studio or Producer.
Can you bring your kids?
Kinda. Yes, you can. However some of the characters and entertainers could be scary to children under 10 years old so do so at your own risk. Hundreds of families and small children eating here and have had good response from them.
Learn more at: https://www.beetlehousela.com
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Willamette Valley’s Eila Wines Reveals Intense, Complex Taste – Wine Review
Eila Wines Shows off the best of Oregon’s Vintage with Intense, Complex Taste
Oregon’s Willamette Valley continues to impress with their small allotment, high quality wines. Is Eila Wines a daily drink? Having tasted through their current portfolio, they’re more for a special night.
These wines are for memories and savoring. You don’t want to rush the experience.
Eila Wines Process
According to their website, their winemaking uses varying amounts of whole cluster during fermentation with ambient yeast, minimizing extraction.
Harvesting dates are chosen to retain acidity/freshness balanced with phenolic ripeness and maintaining moderate alcohol levels.
Then the wine is fermented in small batches and aged in a low impact mixture of new and neutral French oak barrels.
2021 Chardonnay Eila Wines
2021 Chardonnay Eila Wines
An excellent example of why Willamette Chardonnay’s are gaining national popularity.
Grapes are sourced from Von Oehsen Vineyard in the Eola-Amity AVA at an elevation of 400-500’. Harvested in early September 2021. Crushed then pressed, fermented in barrels. Stored on lees with minimal battonage. 42% new oak from a Damy puncheon.
Medium gold in the glass. Light and delicate on the nose. Lemon, peach, orange blossoms. Crisp citrus, orange blossom, dried fruit flavors.
With only 109 cases produced, this is a special bottle. If it’s still available, buy it immediately and hold onto it for a special night.
2021 Indigo Pinot Noir Eila Wines
2021 Indigo Pinot Noir Eila Wines
Complex is too simple of a word for this bottle. It delights in throwing you twists and turns; and taking your mouth for a ride.
Grapes sourced from Witness Tree Vineyard in the Eola-Amity AVA at 500’ elevation. Harvested early September 2021. Fermented using 38% whole cluster. Aged in 40% new oak oak.
Deep ruby in the glass. Medium body with blackberry, black currant on the nose. White pepper, licorice, dried herbs, A multi-dimensional flavors, while still being light on the tannins.
121 cases produced. Buy it here.
2021 Scarlett Pinot Noir Eila Wines
2021 Scarlet Pinot Noir Eila Wines
This bottle deserves to breathe. Seriously. Open it, decant it, savor it. But whatever you do, don’t rush it. Let it be a marathon and your mouth will thank you.
The winery itself describes it as “a richer, darker wine” and they’re not wrong.
Sourced from Prophet Vineyard in Eola-Amity AVA at a 440-600’ elevation. Harvested mid- September 2021. Fermented using 25% whole cluster. Aged with 20% new oak.
It transformed from a kitten to a tiger after giving it substantial breathing time. Deep ruby in the glass. Medium body. Blackberry, blueberry, raspberry on the nose. Velvety pleasures in the mouth. Bell pepper, dried spice. A sultry finish. Highly enjoyable.
With only 120 cases produced, I would stand in a long line just to taste this wine again.
2021 Violet Pinot Noir Eila Wines
2021 Violet Pinot Noir Eila Wines
A unique wine, unique flavor, for a unique palette.
Grapes sourced from Le Cadeau vineyard at 600-700’ elevation in the Chehalem Mountains AVA. Harvested mid-September 2021. Fermented using 27% whole cluster. Aged with 25% new oak.
Medium ruby in the glass. Red currant and cranberry on the nose. Heavy cranberry on the palette. An elegant wine with tart acidity. The tart acidity wasn’t my favorite choice. I admire how it kept opening. I struggled to find a food pairing and found it bold on its own. I always enjoy tasting unique wines. Perhaps I’d like it more next time.
189 cases produced. If you’re looking for bold flavor, this is an adventure to try.
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Santa Monica FIG Restaurant in Iconic Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows Launches Limited-Time Menu with Tieghan Gerard on April 10, 2024
Santa Monica FIG Restaurant in Iconic Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows Launches Limited-Time Menu with Tieghan Gerard on April 10, 2024
Featuring elevated twists on comforting classics and the best of the bounty of the spring season, the limited-time menu features Executive Chef Damon Gordon’s own FIG twist on Half Baked Harvest’s signature staples
Fairmont Miramar in Santa Monica, CA photographed by Lisa Romerein. Styled by Rebecca Farr and Robin Turk.
Embrace the essence of farm-to-fork cuisine and welcome the Spring season in style as FIG Restaurant at Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows in Santa Monica announces an exciting culinary collaboration with celebrity chef Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest fame.
Renowned for her visually stunning and delectable recipes, Tieghan’s culinary creations have captivated audiences worldwide.
With over five million social media followers, bestselling cookbooks, and appearances on major networks like The Cooking Channel, Food Network, and The Today Show, Tieghan brings her unique flair to the table.
Set against the backdrop of one of America’s most cherished hotel destinations, Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows boasts lush gardens, luxurious poolside accommodations, breathtaking ocean views, and the beloved Fig restaurant.
From April 10 to May 10, 2024, guests can indulge in a month-long culinary journey featuring a selection of Half Baked Harvest’s elevated comfort classics infused with FIG’s signature touch by Executive Chef Damon Gordon.
Using locally-sourced seasonal ingredients sourced from the Santa Monica Farmers Market, just a stone’s throw from the hotel, this collaboration promises to elevate dining experiences to new heights.
The limited-time insta worthy menu is available for brunch on Saturday & Sunday from 11:30am – 3:00pm, and dinner from Tuesday – Saturday from 5:00pm – 10:00pm.
Brunch
- Ricotta Chocolate Chip & Banana Pancakes: A healthy yet comforting Half Baked Harvest brunch staple, these pancakes are loaded with bananas, chia seeds, and semi-sweet chocolate chips for balance.
Dinner
- Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata: Offering no better twist on a classic, simple spring/summer staple, this colorful dish features an abundance of sweet cherry tomatoes from Wong Farm out of Mecca, CA which offer premium tomatoes for the spring and summer that are sweet and full of flavor.), served over creamy burrata cheese with an organic fresh herb vinaigrette from Kenter Canyon, Sun Valley, CA,, served with housemade crusty grilled bread.
- Spicy Pesto Alla Vodka Rigatoni: This silky, smooth and extra creamy Spicy Pesto Pasta Alla Vodka features fresh pasta housemade by Chef Damon tossed in a creamy, yet balanced spicy tomato pesto vodka sauce utilizing tomatoes from Wong Farm.
- Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza: Featuring housemade sesame-topped dough, this crispy, well-balanced pizza offers the right amounts of spice, saltiness, and cheese with spicy Calabrian peppers and sweet roasted red peppers from Weiser Family Farms, based in Tehachapi, CA.
Nestled within Fairmont Miramar, FIG Restaurant exudes a charming blend of rusticity and sophistication, offering a haven for fresh, seasonal cuisine. With a commitment to utilizing Southern California’s abundant produce, an impressive 85% of the menu highlights the region’s bounty. Sourcing ingredients from multiple weekly visits to local farmer’s markets and specialty foragers scouring the coastline for rare finds, FIG ensures a culinary adventure like no other.
Helmed by Executive Chef Damon Gordon, whose culinary pedigree includes training under renowned chefs such as the Roux Brothers, Marco Pierre White, Claude Troisgros, and Alain Ducasse, FIG embodies a philosophy rooted in providing guests with unforgettable dining experiences. By spotlighting local and seasonal produce sourced from the Santa Monica Farmer’s Market, Chef Gordon crafts dishes that tantalize the palate and celebrate the essence of California cuisine.
FIG welcomes guests for breakfast and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday, with brunch service available on Saturdays and Sundays. Reservations can be made through Resy or by calling (310) 319-3111.
Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
Situated on five expansive acres on the bluff north of the Santa Monica pier overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows sits on what was originally the private estate of the founder of Santa Monica, dating back to 1875. The historic hotel property is one of America’s most celebrated and iconic hotel destinations due to its sprawling gardens, luxurious poolside accommodations, spectacular ocean views, and the fresh sea air. As the only beachside hotel with bungalows, the Fairmont Miramar continues to provide guests, celebrities, politicians, and notable figures a relaxing and luxurious environment in its suite of outlets including the Lobby Lounge & Library, as well as FIG Restaurant, and Soko.
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