California is well known for its beaches and lifestyle, but you may not know that the Golden State is rich in diversity and amazing cuisine. This month I traveled the scenic and legendary Pacific Highway, starting in San Francisco and heading down through the Santa Maria Valley to Oxnard. From Senegalese tacos to Cali Soul food, I got to experience some of the best food the state has to offer and had some memorable experiences along the way.
If you’ve been dreaming of taking a California road trip, here are some must-visit black food tips to add to your travel itinerary.
San Francisco and Oakland
This annual festival is a fun ode to black culture that gives a taste of the incredible black-owned food businesses in Oakland. It’s packed with food vendors, DJs, art, games, live music and more – the perfect celebration of the black experience. No matter where you go, you’re sure to feel a real sense of community and belonging at this event. If you’re in Oakland in February, hit up the Black Joy parade – and don’t forget to practice your electric slide!
If you’re looking for great food and vibes, Sobre Mesa has you covered. This Afro-Latino cocktail lounge in Oakland exudes atmosphere complete with lush greenery and bold, bright decor. It has cocktails for every occasion and the most delicious tapas, making it a great place to enjoy a night on the town. Chef Nelson German, executive chef and owner of Sobre Mesa, has created a menu featuring creative spins on Latin dishes and inspiration from the African diaspora. Ethiopian wings are so delicious!
There are few places that do Senegalese food as well as Little Baobab. This little gem in San Francisco offers new takes on classic dishes like pastelles, pockets of goodness stuffed with seasoned beef, seafood or vegetables. I went to this restaurant for the amazing food, but it was the good vibes that made me stay. Owner Marco is a local legend bringing West African music, culture and hospitality to the Bay Area. Every guest is treated like a member of the family, so you feel right at home.
This local institution has been serving fresh, sustainable seafood to visitors and San Franciscans for years. Fog Harbor is located on the famous Pier 39 and is definitely a must if you are in the Bay Area. They serve the most delicious seafood and all can be enjoyed with a stunning view over the Golden Gate Bridge.
In addition to these amazing events and restaurants, try Radio Africa for a soul food inspired breakfast or a healthy East African inspired lunch!
Santa Maria Valley
With the aroma of barbecue and decor that evokes the Old West, the experience at Hitching Post is like stepping back in time. This Santa Maria Valley landmark is a meat lover’s paradise. It is known for its traditional slow cooking method, using indirect heat over an open wood fire, which produces exceptional steak dishes. This restaurant has a real comforting feel to it with extremely welcoming staff who embrace the guests as part of the community.
Located in Old Town Orcott, this full-service deli is a great place to stop for sandwiches and some great baked goods. Homestead is a women’s property with a sister bakery across the street, cupcakes and crumbs. I tried their amazing tri-tip sandwich and paired it with a sweet and savory lemon square for dessert. The food was made even better by the beautiful ambiance of their beautiful outdoor seating area.
As a novice in the wine world, Riverbench was the perfect place to learn more and absorb the beautiful flavors of California. This amazing vineyard offers tastings from staff who are passionate about wine and gives guests a chance to relax and unwind. I highly recommend their picnic basket, which has an array of cheeses, meats and jams that pair perfectly with the selected wines.
In the middle of a small square in Orcutt, you’ll find a hidden gem that will take you straight to Havana. Cubanissimo offers authentic Cuban dishes such as beef empanadas, yuca fries and tostones. I recommend their absolutely delicious guava cheesecake and strong and bold Cuban iced coffee. It’s a great place to stop for lunch during a road trip!
Oxnard
While I was in Oxnard, this food truck was an unexpected treat with a fusion of Asian and Caribbean flavors. Gourmet District is unlike any other food truck I’ve been to, offering hibachi-inspired dishes with a California twist. Chef Palmer and his team are committed to creating high-quality, mouth-watering dishes, and it shows. Everything they serve is seasoned to perfection and there really is something on the menu for everyone. Their lemon pepper wings were amazing, and the garlic noodles and hibachi fries were next level in flavor.
The Haven is a new upscale restaurant in Oxnard, owned by the popular fast-casual chain, Caribbean Haven in Ventura. It has a menu featuring dishes with a unique take on Caribbean cuisine that clearly pays tribute to the chef’s Guyanese roots. I was very lucky to get a special preview of the restaurant and the food was delicious. Their Coconut Curry Seafood Pasta was incredibly rich and flavorful, and I loved enjoying it while taking in the beautiful oceanside view. This place is the perfect place to celebrate with your friends and will be the highlight of your California adventure.
Xielo is a family owned favorite that comes highly recommended by locals. It’s a dessert shop known for its traditional Mexican pastries, sweet desserts, and a selection of fusion sweet and savory crepes. I love the empanadas de guayaba and the horchata frappe, but their classic Mexican hot chocolate or iced coffee is also fun. This is a popular spot, but I promise it’s worth lining up for!
Before you go, grab dinner at Sushi Way for a mix of Asian and Latin flavors, or stop by the attached food hall for delicious and unique local favorites like Silverlake Ramen and Burnin Mouth.
