Food + Beverage

NABU Wines

A Hidden Gem in the Conejo Valley Article by Ben Malkin | Photography by Greg Barnett Often referred to as a hidden gem in the Conejo Valley, NABU Wines has been an urban winery producing its handcrafted award-winning wines since 2012. Why NABU, we ask? “When my wife Janet Barnett and I started the winery, our main focus was producing wines from Napa Valley and from our local mountains of Malibu, and that’s why we are called NABU,” says Owner Greg Barnett. Any “Star Wars” reference? “No,”...

Food + Beverage

California Wine Country

Memorable Moments on a Grape-Sipping Road Trip Article and Photography by Melissa Curtin A California grape-hopping road trip can unveil many unexpected moments. Explore the Golden State’s unique wine tasting experiences one sip at a time. Santa Barbara’s World of Pinot Noir The 3-day World of Pinot Noir is a wine-fueled weekend held February at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara celebrating delicious and storied wine. Attendees include wine aficionados, sommeliers, winemakers and...

Food + Beverage

Sonoma Valley Wine Country

Explore Premium California Wines Article by Ben Malkin | Photography by Ben Malkin, Left Coast Photography While Sonoma Valley and Napa Valley are next-door neighbors in the heart of premium California wine country, a visit and wine tasting tour shows contrasting styles, experiences and wines to enjoy. Napa wineries are easily accessible. From the south to the north most of the wineries are located on a grid bordered by Highway 29 and the Silverado Trail. Your visit to Sonoma Valley is more...

Food + Beverage

Mizel Estate Wines: Bringing the Unexpected to Life

Article by Val West On a gorgeous afternoon, you stroll through a stunning vineyard surrounded by mountains and vast blue sky as far as the eye can see. Afterward, relaxing at a lovely table set among the vines, you savor a flight of luscious, velvety red wines. You’ve just experienced the unexpected magic of Mizel Estate Wines, nestled in the heart of Thousand Oaks’ Hidden Valley, just 25 miles north of Los Angeles. Estate-Grown Perfection The name “Mizel” is a blend of the names of the...

Arts + Culture

Cuizon Ballet Centre

Guiding Dancers to Excel Article by Alicia Doyle | Photography by Ben Malkin Every dancer has a unique story to tell through movement at Cuizon Ballet Centre, where the founder’s philosophy emphasizes the importance of technique, artistry and personal growth in every student. “We specialize in Balanchine technique—a method not easily found elsewhere,” says Founder and Teacher Lisa Cuizon. The Balanchine technique revolutionized ballet with its trademark blend of speed, athleticism and...

Life + Culture

Food, Wine & Connection: Life’s Tastiest Ingredients

Article by Kim Pagano There’s something magical about gathering around a table with good food, a great glass of wine and even better company. For me, food and wine aren’t just about taste—they’re about experience. They’re about creating moments that linger long after the plates are cleared. Whether I’m hosting a dinner party, attending a local tasting or supporting one of our amazing community restaurants, I love how food and wine bring people together. There’s a rhythm to it: the clinking of...

Food + Beverage

Corks and Kegs

Kiwanis Club of Thousand Oaks Charitable Foundation’s Annual Charity Fundraiser Article and Photography by Join the Kiwanis Club of Thousand Oaks Charitable Foundation at its inaugural Kiwanis Corks and Kegs event, October 9 at The Gardens at Los Robles Greens. This inaugural event merges two of the Kiwanis Club’s most successful events—Conejo Uncorked and TO BrewFest—into an unforgettable celebration. Enjoy an array of fine wines, craft beers and exquisite local cuisine while supporting...

Food + Beverage

Marcello Ristorante in Thousand Oaks

Serving the Community for 35+ Years Article by Tracy Marcynzsyn When you’re looking for flavorful lunch or dinner fare, visit Marcello Ristorante in Thousand Oaks for a wonderful meal you’re sure to savor. Since 1989, the amazing chefs at Marcello’s have been satisfying diners with their authentic Italian dishes. “The neighborhood and regulars consider Marcello a ‘hidden gem’ and we’ve had guests coming for over 35 years,” says Owner Edwin Khaziran. “We have very authentic Italian food and...

Food + Beverage

From the Source:

Explore Local Farms at Ventura County’s Annual Farm Day Photography by Provided Find out where your food is grown and meet local farmers at the 13th Annual Ventura County Farm Day! All ages are welcome to explore area farms on November 8, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. during this free event. From behind-the-scenes tours and tractor rides to produce tastings, giveaways and kid-friendly exhibits, this annual event offers something for everyone. Check out the online Trail Map at VCFarmDay.org to...

Home + Design

Cellar Masters:

Wine Features in Your Living Space Article by Greg Barnett | Photography by Greg Barnett and Scott Berry Years ago, when you started collecting wine, the idea of having a wine cellar in your home began with finding a space where you could fit wine racks and keep it cool. Fast forward, and they are now what Cellar Masters calls wine features in your living space or business. This means you can not only enjoy your wine collection in your dining room, living room or unique space, but also watch...