If you love the idea of dining your way through Southern California, then this is the restaurant list you'll want to reference again and again throughout 2018. From casual Mom and Pop eateries to fancy-schmancy restaurants perfect for an elegant date night, this is THE list to check out when you're trying to figure out where to dine next in sunny SoCal.
1. Hawk's Head Public House -- 12261 Oak Glen Rd in Oak Glen, California.
Dining is so much more than delicious food at this restaurant modeled after an 18th-century tavern. Step into Hawk's Head Public House and you'll be treated to a colonial experience with servers dressed up in period costume while serving the most delicious comfort food. From pot pie to pot roast and all of your favorite side dishes, this is one place that delivers an extraordinary meal.
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2. Hobbit Restaurant -- 2932 E Chapman Ave in Orange, CA.
If there's only one SoCal restaurant you try in 2018 then let it be the Hobbit Restaurant. More than just a restaurant, this is a true dining experience separated into three acts. You'll start with hors d'oeuvres in the cellar, move on to a multi-course meal in the dining room, and then be treated to an elegant dessert to cleanse your palate.
3. Toscana -- 11633 San Vicente Blvd., Los Angeles.
Looking for a divine plate of Northern Italian food right here in SoCal? Then check out Toscana, which recently made the "100 Best Restaurants in America" list as compiled by Opentable.com. From steaks to pizzas and homemade pasta dishes, this restaurant offers a little something for everyone.
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4. Gulliver's -- 18482 MacArthur Blvd in Irvine, CA.
For another restaurant that will take you back in time to the 18th century, make sure to check out Gullivers. With a restaurant theme loosely based on the book Gulliver's Travels, this rustic English pub is a fun and cozy spot to grab a scrumptious meal.
5. Farmhouse Cafe -- 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road in Corona del Mar, CA.
Tucked inside Roger's Gardens in picturesque Corona del Mar you'll find a cozy outdoor eatery that whips up locally sourced gourmet comfort food that's positively to-die-for. The Farmhouse Cafe not only serves mouthwatering meals, but the charming open-air setting will add a touch of magic to your dining experience.
6. 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant -- 8885 Balboa Avenue, San Diego, CA 92123.
If brunch is your favorite meal of the day then you simply can't miss the magnificent buffet served at 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant. In addition to enjoying a buffet that's loaded with all of your favorite foods including a seafood station, a make-your-own pasta station, and a massive gourmet dessert station, 94th Aero Squadron is also located in a memorable setting as it looks out over Montgomery Field Airport. What a unique place to enjoy an amazing meal!
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7. Pappy and Harriet's -- 53688 Pioneertown Road in Pioneertown, CA.
If you're a long-time resident of Southern California, there's no question you've already heard of Pappy and Harriet's old-time saloon as it's been a wildly popular destination in SoCal since 1982. Located in the in the western-themed town of Pioneertown, Pappy and Harriet's offers a slice of the Wild West in an old-time relaxed roadhouse that serves up loads of fun and tons of tasty comfort food.
8. Jeremy's on the Hill -- 4354 Highway 78 in Julian, CA.
Take a day trip to the charming mountain town of Julian and the first thing you'll want to do is dive into Julian's local restaurant scene. If you want to score a gourmet meal with locally sourced ingredients in a chic dining room setting, then Jeremy's on the Hill is where you'll want to be. Owned by a Cordon Bleu graduate, this hidden gem is a local secret that you'll want to make sure you add to your dining bucket list.
9. The Little Door -- 8164 W 3rd Street in Los Angeles, CA.
The Little Door is an unexpected gem of a restaurant located in West Hollywood. Warm, cozy and secluded are just a few of the words that describe this enchanting SoCal eatery. Whether you're drawn to the exquisite Mediterranean menu or you're dazzled by the romantic ambiance that occupies every space of this restaurant, you simply can't go wrong at The Little Door.
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10. Hacienda de Vega -- 2608 S Escondido Blvd in Escondido, CA.
Hacienda de Vega is a divine restaurant in San Diego County best known for its lush outdoor setting and comforting home-cooked Mexican meals. You can choose to dine inside or out at Hacienda de Vega, but there's truly nothing more relaxing than grabbing a seat next to the water feature. Whether you show up on a hot afternoon or a starry night, this dreamy outdoor setting in SoCal is hard to beat.
Which restaurants will you be adding to your 2018 dining bucket list? If you're curious about the restaurants that made the list last year, take a look at our 2017 restaurant list right over here.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
As far as American cities go, few are as renowned for their food as Los Angeles. Though Angelenos have earned a reputation as health-conscious and spendthrifts, with gimmicky stores like Erewhon earning think-piece coverage in esteemed publications like The New Yorker, they’re not above cheap and greasy classics. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that Los Angeles is the hometown of one of my favorite lunchtime indulgences: the French dip. Even more incredibly, you can still visit this sandwich’s birthplace! Nestled in the heart of Chinatown, Philippe The Original remains one of the city’s most reliable destinations for delicious and affordable fare!
First opening to customers in 1908, Philippe The Original is one of LA’s oldest eateries. Originally conceived as a French delicatessen by founder Philippe Mathieu, the spot quickly gained traction among Angelenos working in the city’s growing downtown core. But the restaurant’s most iconic dish, the French or beef dip sandwich, landed on the menu a full decade after the shop’s debut. Legend has it that Mathieu was preparing a regular’s order when the sliced French roll he'd be holding fell into a roasting pan filled with beef jus. With a line out the door and a parade of tickets to fill, Mathieu asked if the man would mind taking the sandwich anyway. The customer agreed.
That regular was far from disappointed. In fact, he returned the following day for another "dipped" sandwich. Mathieu was happy to oblige, and before long the French dip went from a serendipitous one-off to a staple of the delicatessen's menu. Today's patrons will find Philippe The Original in the same charming, flat iron building it's occupied since 1951. Though some things have changed — including the makeup of the restaurant's lines, which now include sandwich enthusiasts from across the world — Philippe's has managed to maintain its historic character.
Upon arrival, customers file into one of ten lines directing them past a long display counter to a "carver." This carver acts as your server, cashier, and chef, taking orders, preparing dishes, and passing them off on the spot. The restaurant's unique legacy and atmosphere engenders an unmistakable sense of camaraderie between customers. It isn't uncommon, for instance, to brainstorm orders with other Philippe's patrons while you wait. The prices remain first-rate, too, with the iconic beef dip going for $13.50 a pop.
Now, there's no escaping the reality that fame can rob a beloved local eatery of its magic. As crowds increase, they occasionally displace regulars who've made the restaurant part of their weekly routines for years. I'm happy to say this isn't so at Philippe's, where you're just as likely to encounter a seasoned beef dip enthusiast as you are an eager newcomer. Food journalists have long celebrated the shop's enduring appeal, with critics like Merrill Shindler writing for the Los Angeles Herald Examiner, “. . . Philippe’s is more than food. It’s one of those marvelous phenomenons I find myself constantly drawn to in an effort to connect with a bit of L.A.’s too often ignored past... What can I say? It’s Philippe’s. It’s the Original— and it always will be.”
