Valle de Guadalupe is a region in Baja California Norte, Mexico, known for its vast, sprawling vineyards, rustic charm, and serene beauty that transports you to another world. And there, nestled under the shelter of a large, ancient oak tree, is Animalón — a Michelin-starred gem that effortlessly blends luxury with the natural beauty of its surroundings.

What makes Animalón stand out — beyond the oak tree, beyond the setting — is the passion that flows from its kitchen. There’s a clear understanding here that dining is not just about the food; it’s about telling a story. And that story is steeped in the flavors of Baja California, in the freshness of the local produce, and the deep-rooted connections between the chefs, the land, and the people.

I recently enjoyed a member’s tasting experience at the gorgeous and renowned Donum Estate, nestled in the beautiful Carneros region of Sonoma Valley. Drenched in warm sunlight and sitting atop 190 acres of picturesque rolling hills, this sleek property stands out against the lush landscape in which it is enveloped. Newly renovated by award-winning Danish architect David Thulstrup, the modern simplicity of the space is best experienced by the light of day. Thulstrup credited his heritage as a significant influence in his design process, “…being Scandinavian, I naturally cherish light, and how it changes throughout the course of a day – an element that I have put focus on for the interior of the Donum Home.”

This morning I received an email with my WSET Level 2 Award in Wines exam results—I passed, with Merit. My score was an 84%, making it one point shy of receiving a Distinction honor. As my husband woke up, I ecstatically shared this news with him and he squeezed me tight and expressed how proud he was of me. I started to go on about this 1% off from Distinction and he politely reminded me of the call I made from my rental car outside of Rutherford House on that stressful rainy day in Napa, expressing my fears that I potentially didn’t pass. I was thankful for his words and we continued to celebrate.

Nestled amidst the scenic vineyards and charming streets of Healdsburg, California, Troubadour Bread stands as a beacon for food enthusiasts seeking artisanal provisions. During my recent trip to this charming bakery, I was impressed by their unique selection of sandwiches, and I was truly amazed by the exceptional quality of the bread on which they were prepared. One casual lunch at Troubadour left me feeling completely inspired by the culinary scene of Sonoma County and I cannot wait to return.

Loreto is a Mexican seafood restaurant in Frogtown, Los Angeles. The gorgeous Loreto specializes in refined mariscos (seafood), such as ceviches, aguachiles, and zarandeados. In addition to its Baja-inspired seafood dishes, the restaurant also offers a superb selection of cocktails and mezcal.

Lingua Franca is a modern American restaurant in Frogtown, Los Angeles, that has quickly become a favorite among Eastside dwellers. Owned and operated by Lauren and Peter Lemos, the husband-and-wife duo behind the beloved Wax Paper, the restaurant offers a new take on classic American dishes, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu changes regularly, but you can always expect to find something deliciously inventive.