Saturday, October 29, 2016

The Inn at Newport Ranch

The sheer majesty of untamed natural beauty unfolds just in time to allow guests to enter into the welcoming gates of The Inn at Newport Ranch.  Perched on the craggy Mendocino coast, this breathtaking hideaway is set in seclusion on a 2000 acre private preserve that was once a former lumber town known as Newport. Here amidst the stunningly varied landscape is this land of "once upon a time!"
The meticulously designed main lodge is where you begin your adventure. Right behind the stain glass doors are plenty of cozy communal areas including a well stocked library set besides a massive fireplace, 2 dining rooms (one intimate, and one that can seat 50) ,and a den with skillfully hand crafted furniture, all beckoning you to sit down, relax and enjoy. Surrounding windows overlooking the ocean are the ultimate romantic spot to view a glorious sunrise or stunning sunset. Each evening from 6 to 7 p.m.guests enjoy appetizers,and area wines from Anderson Valley and Sonoma,perfect to toast your good fortune for choosing this fantastic Inn. Also to your delight, each morning, mouthwatering made to order breakfasts are served here. By request for your dining pleasure, gourmet dinners prepared by a private chef (all including veggies and herbs from the on-site garden) can be arranged at booking.
Evan, one of the personable managers, after a short introduction, handed us our key and walked us into the closest thing to a palace and the perfect place to bed down. Furnished in rustic high-end decor that was so amazing, I knew I might never want to leave, so I set out to enjoy every moment.The door to our suite named 'The Grove,' led us into an entryway where we hung our coats. Next came a den with a crackling fireplace, rugs set out on  gorgeous wood floors, perfectly placed oversize leather chairs with comfy pillows while throws to snuggle in were everywhere. The adjoining living room was a perfect area with IPod docks, WiFi and TV. The kitchen had just the right appliances, pots and pans, and matching rustic glazed dishes, mugs and glasses. and cutlery. Alongside the kitchen area was a small table and chairs, just the place to grab a snack, a hot cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Right outside the beautiful glass doors leading to the back area, were two separate decks with chairs for sunning, along with a hot tub that was welcoming as well.  The beds with gorgeous carved headboards in each of the two bedrooms were dressed in the finest high thread sheets and topped with warm plump fluffy quilts. The two bathrooms were dreamy enough to delight any woman, with walk in showers, thick plush towels and robes.

A highlight here is the 2 hour ATV tour for you to survey your kingdom. Thrill at the verdant hills and meadows, cattle pasture, forest, private and oceanside trails, sea stacks, sandy beaches and the historic cemetery. Horseback riding, hiking and other activities can also be arranged.

The Inn at Newport Ranch is owned by Will Jackson, and Creighton & Cindi Smith are the Inn Managers. Located at 31502 N. Highway 1, Fort Bragg, CA 95437, phone (707) 962-4818 or www.theinnatnewportranch.com  and so very well worth the gorgeous drive to get there.

Sunday, October 9, 2016

Costero California Bar + Bistro

Making waves as the newest restaurant near LAX, Costero California Bar + Bistro offers a contemporary and engaging environment that serves modern California dining and local craft  beer/
Serving up a variety of classics with a California twist, Costero is an all aroud venue, a hotspot for locals and visitors. "Costero is the perfect blend of upscale casual dining with a convenient yet inviting environment," said Bill Sinclair, Vice President of Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel, the hotel in which Costero is located. "This fresh from California approach not only provides guests with a new on-site dining option, but a place where they can  get together with friends and family, or even make new connections.
Representing an exciting combination of tradition and innovation Executive Chef Orazio Parisi brings his Cordon Bleu skills and Sicilian sensibility to the creation of a menu that emphasizes fresh, seasonal flavors, and a California coastal take on time-honored American cuisine.
You will enjoy a wide range of delectable small plates, savory soups, Neopolitan pizzas, artisinal salads, fresh tacos, sandwiches, large entrees,  vegetarian/vegan options, and decadent desserts. Simply put, no matter what you're craving, Costero will have a culinary creation for you.
Located inside the Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel, 6101 West Century Blvd, Los Angeles 90045, phone (310) 642-4820  www.sheratonlax.com