Ad feature by VisitCalifornia.com
PUBLISHED: 10:32, 6 February 2024
When it comes to foodie hot spots, the Golden State is aglow with glorious culinary experiences. It’s a place that takes you from five-star food trucks to Michelin-star menus, from famed rooftop cocktail bars in Los Angeles to fuss-free beachfront eateries in Big Sur.
You can take a journey through the state’s many culinary cultures, Mexican cuisine in San Diego, perhaps a taco tour road trip through Southern California, Japanese flavours in Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo and salted codfish treats in San Jose’s Little Portugal.
Take a journey through the state’s many culinary cultures
California foodie culture is fuelled by its impressive mix of fresh produce. The state is the number one producer of fresh fruits and vegetables in the country, accounting for one-third of all vegetables and two-thirds of all fruits and nuts. You can sample this produce first-hand at one of the 700 farmers’ markets across the state.
The Central Valley is key. A 60-mile wide and 450-mile-long stretch of fertile land, it provides a quarter of all food in the US, yet accounts for just one per cent of the country’s farmland.
Head to the birthplace of America’s farm-to-fork movement – Sacramento – for an authentic insight into the Golden State’s gastronomy. It’s a heady blend of farm and city, where you’ll find restaurants serving zero-mile gastronomy as well as many organic food festivals and other culinary celebrations. You can also take part in immersive experiences, from picking your own produce to enjoying farm-to-fork feasts at local family-run establishments.
The Napa Valley is of one of the world's best wine regions
You’ll find a fantastic variety of wine regions throughout the state of California, from vintage names in the north like Napa Valley and Sonoma County through to lesser-known gems including Northern California’s Mendocino and Temecula in Southern California.
Wine Country isn’t just about the latest vintages, often these are farming areas where you’ll also enjoy wonderful culinary experiences. Northern California’s Wine Country alone is home to seven Michelin Star restaurants, including The French Laundry, headed by the renowned chef Thomas Keller.
Hop aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train, a locomotive steam train, for a classic tour through the vines of one of the world's best wine regions. And those with a taste for fine food and adventure should opt for dedicated California Wine Country Combo Tours, which combine biking and kayaking with wine tasting and gastronomic experiences.
There are more than 1,000 microbreweries scattered across the state
Not to be left out, the state’s burgeoning beer scene is up there with the best in the US, with more than 1,000 microbreweries scattered across the state – add a few to your epicurean route.
When it comes to fabulous food, California delivers. From the delicious authenticity of farm-to-fork dining to the perfect pairing of fine wine and creative cuisine, the Golden State’s culinary offering is pure heaven for foodies.
Find out more and plan your trip at visitcalifornia.com
