Weekend Away!

Places to stop for a bite on the road to and in Ojai

For some people, local getaways mean packing the car and then immediately heading to the destination via the fastest, most direct route. I don’t always like to do that. I’m relieved from the burdens of work the second I get in the car. So often, I choose a more meandering way to my destination so I have time to decompress on the drive. I’ll stop to eat somewhere along the way just to get in the spirit of being away. And it doesn’t have to be a marquee foodie place. It can be as simple as a taqueria or a diner. Just a stop to mark slowing down and getting in the away mood. Even a good macchiato and a pastry can do it for me.

Buckle up and go on a virtual road trip to Ojai with me and Madeleine Brand on Press Play.

Once you arrive in Ojai, remember, you’re in a small town. Yes, there are fewer choices than in the giant city you escaped from. That’s the charm. But there is still a remarkable amount of choice. Also, remember that for restaurants in somewhat isolated communities, sourcing ingredients and staff is no small matter. With all that in mind, Ojai is a motherlode of casual California outdoor eating. Enjoy the slower pace, eat, and stroll. Oh, and browse bookstores. It’s part of the Ojai experience. Bart’s Books is iconic.

ON THE ROAD

A feast from Best BBQ in Santa Paula. Photo courtesy of Best BBQ.

Best BBQ
Santa Paula
You’re here for the tri-tip. Eat now or get a package to go so you don’t have to think about your first meal in Ojai. And you can always eke out more vacay by picking some up on the way home.

Rabelais Bistro
Santa Paula
Cajun influence. Great for late breakfast or lunch on your way up, plus bakery offerings to take with you.

Hozy’s Grill
Santa Paula
Diner breakfast and lunch

Roan Mills
Fillmore
Pick up a loaf of bread and some excellent granola for your Airbnb experience, and grab a coffee and a pastry for the car.

Rory’s Place is known for their oyster selection. Photo courtesy of Rory’s Place.

IN OJAI AND MEINERS OAKS

Ojai Rotie
Lebanese leaning rotisserie chicken and sides, sandwiches, hummus, manouche, and toum.

Ojai Noodle House
When you need a hit of Vietnamese food. Excellent noodle slurp. Great take-out if you want to stay in for the evening.

Rory’s Place
Aside from The Dutchess, the most mentioned place in town. Oysters and seafood towers join the requisite roast chicken and heirloom pork chop. Plus, excellent seasonal cocktails

Rory’s Other Place’s soft serve has quickly become legendary. Photo courtesy of Rory’s Other Place.

Rory’s Other Place
Classic all-day dining options, including a tight selection of excellent sandwiches. But you’re here for the buffalo milk soft serve.

The Pesto Mystic from Pinyon. Photo courtesy of Pinyon.

Pinyon
Wood-fired pizzeria and accompaniments focused on local farmers and small producers.

Papa Lennon’s
Casual Italian, pizza.

Bonnie Lu’s
Because sometimes you just want breakfast at a diner and to pretend you’re a local.

Farmer and the Cook
Where you’ll get your smoothie fix, and all organic vegetarian, farm-sourced Mexican eats.

The Nest
For your window pick-up, eat-and-drink-outside California foodie dream. Including cocktails

Ojai Tortilla House
Tiny, dependable taqueria with lines and cash only.

Radio Roma
Mexico City-inspired bar/DJ lounge with a mezcal program and Mexican food.

Westridge Market
If you want to pick up some sandwiches or other casual eats to go and need a lot of choice. And some milk for your morning coffee or cereal.