This article has been written and produced in partnership with Visit California.
California’s culinary scene is as vibrant as its diverse landscapes, offering everything from farm-fresh produce at local farmers’ markets to globally celebrated Michelin-starred dining. And the cultural and geographical diversity of the state is reflected in its food, with innovative chefs blending flavors from around the world.
In his book Secrets of Eden, author Chris Bohjalian writes, “food is a gift and should be treated reverentially, romanced and ritualized and seasoned with memory.” So this holiday season, if you’re looking for a gift that is nourishing and one that will endure in a lifetime of memories, consider giving the gift of travel and a culinary experience in California that is sure to delight.
Here are our top 10 recommendations:
Farmers Market Tours
One of my favorite things about living in California is that you can visit farmers’ markets year-round. On the east coast, where I’m from, farmers markets are strictly seasonal but being able to explore a wide variety of farmers markets, not just in my hometown, but across the whole state, is amazing.
If you’re looking for a truly unique gift idea this holiday season, why not give someone a California farmers’ market tour? Check out the Original Farmers Market Tour in LA here and the San Francisco Food Tour: Ferry Building and Ferry Plaza Farmers Market here.
Beverly Hills New Year’s Eve Experiences
Ring in the New Year in style at iconic Beverly Hills hotels hosting unforgettable celebrations. The Maybourne Beverly Hills is offering the chance to indulge in a lavish four-course New Year’s Eve dinner, complete with caviar-topped canapés and champagne to toast the night away in style.
For those craving excitement, Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills is hosting an electrifying disco themed party at Espelette, featuring live entertainment and food and drinks including passed canapés and an open bar with cocktails, wine and beer. Those seeking something a little different will enjoy The Rooftop Beverly Hills’ 3-course pre-fixe dinner followed by a vibrant DJ party under the stars. Whether savoring gourmet bites, dancing the night away or clinking glasses in a glamorous setting with friends, Beverly Hills is the ultimate setting to ring in the New Year with excitement and style.
West L.A. Donut Tour
Treat your sweetie with the sweet tooth to an unforgettable experience in Los Angeles and together, explore the best donuts West Hollywood has to offer. The West L.A. Donut Tour starts at the unique fōnuts, where donuts are baked fresh daily, giving them a light and health-conscious twist you’ll enjoy. Next, you’ll head over to a second spot near CBS’s Television City, known for its artisan donuts crafted with changing weekly flavors. The tour’s highlight is across the street at the Original Farmers Market, where you’ll get to sample donuts and other treats from spots like Bob’s Coffee & Doughnuts, Sidecar Doughnuts, and fōnuts. Offerings are rotated seasonally to ensure a fantastic experience for all.
The Concord Taco Trail Package
Explore Northern California’s unexpected culinary delights with the Concord Taco Trail package. As a part of this unique gift, guests will enjoy a stay at the Hilton Concord, ideally located near The Veranda, one of Concord’s premier shopping and dining hubs. There, you’ll savor a pre-fixe dinner at Puesto, a popular dining spot at The Veranda known for its fresh, vibrant take on Mexican cuisine.
The package, available for purchase at Hilton Concord and Concord Plaza Hilton through January 23rd, also includes unique taco-themed goodies like a pair of colorful taco socks, a taco shirt and a playful, squishy stress taco — perfect reminders of the flavorful adventure that waits.
Food Trucks and Street Eats in LA
Los Angeles’ food truck scene is legendary and offers up some of the best food you’ve ever tasted. From Korean BBQ to Filipino fusion, food trucks like Kogi BBQ and Guerrilla Tacos are celebrated for their quality and creativity. If you want to try out a wide variety without having to traipse all over the city, then schedule your visit to coincide with First Friday on Abbott Kinney in Venice. As its name suggests, it takes place on the first Friday of every month and is LA’s premier food truck event. You’ll find dozens of A-list food trucks ready to serve you and one thing is for sure: You won’t go hungry.
Sourdough and Seafood in Northern California
San Francisco and Monterey Bay offer excellent opportunities to savor the region’s renowned sourdough bread and fresh seafood. In San Francisco, start with a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf, where classic clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl is a must-try. Local bakeries like Boudin showcase the city’s rich sourdough tradition, producing tangy, crusty loaves that pair well with seafood dishes such as crab cakes or oysters. For a more upscale experience, waterfront restaurants provide fresh Dungeness crab, shrimp cocktails, and sourdough slices as part of their offerings.
In Monterey Bay, the seafood-focused dining continues with fresh catches like calamari, scallops, and salmon, often served alongside locally sourced sourdough. The Monterey Bay Aquarium area features restaurants offering seasonal menus that highlight the pairing of sourdough with cioppino, a flavorful seafood stew. Many establishments emphasize sustainability, sourcing seafood directly from the bay.
Visitors can also explore artisanal markets and cafes to experience unique variations of sourdough bread, such as olive or garlic-infused loaves, ideal for complementing smoked fish or chowder.
Whether in the heart of San Francisco or along the serene Monterey coastline, the combination of sourdough and seafood offers a quintessential taste of Northern California’s culinary heritage.
Wine Tasting in Wine Country
Napa and Sonoma are premier destinations for wine tasting and culinary delights, offering visitors an unforgettable experience amid California’s scenic vineyards and rolling hills. In Napa Valley, start with a guided wine tasting tour at one of the region’s iconic wineries, such as Domaine Carneros or Opus One, where sommeliers lead tastings of renowned wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Many wineries also offer food pairings, including cheese, charcuterie, or small bites crafted by on-site chefs, enhancing the tasting experience. For a more immersive experience, book a food and wine pairing at The Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, where expertly curated menus complement Napa’s world-class wines.
While in the region, get a ticket to board the Napa Valley Wine Train, a historic rail line offering a luxurious journey through California’s renowned wine country. Combining gourmet dining, exceptional wines and scenic vineyard views, it provides a unique experience for an oenophile. Restored vintage train cars and themed tours, including winery stops, make this an unforgettable holiday gift.
In Sonoma, known for its laid-back vibes, wineries such as Buena Vista Winery and Rodney Strong provide tastings in beautiful, historic settings. Sonoma’s tasting rooms often feature local artisanal food pairings, from fresh oysters to hand-made chocolates that bring out the best in regional wines like Pinot Noir and Zinfandel. Foodies can explore Healdsburg’s gourmet restaurants or join a farm-to-table tour for a deeper connection to Sonoma’s culinary scene. Whether strolling through a vineyard or relaxing with a glass of wine and local delicacies, Napa and Sonoma provide a perfect harmony of flavors and ambiance.
A Farmstay Escape at Blue Ruby Farm
For a California-inspired gift that offers a memorable escape, Blue Ruby Farm invites guests to experience a serene, regenerative farmstay in the Sierra foothills, just 2.5 hours from San Francisco. Perfect for culinary-focused retreats, this unique farmstay allows guests to slow down and connect deeply with nature, community and sustainable living.
Founded by Paul and Stephanie Ladeira, Blue Ruby Farm brings the charm of Italian agriturismo to California, with farm-to-table meals crafted by Chef Paul, a Chez Panisse alum. Alongside seasonal, chef-prepared dining, guests can enjoy immersive workshops, farm dinners and activities that showcase regenerative farming practices. This thoughtful gift is ideal for those seeking meaningful travel and shared experiences in a beautiful natural setting.
Farm to Table Dining in California’s Central Valley
California’s Central Valley is a treasure trove for farm-to-table dining, offering fresh, local flavors right from one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world. Visitors can start their farm-to-table journey in Fresno, where restaurants like The Vineyard and Rev’s California Grill craft seasonal menus sourced directly from nearby farms, featuring everything from heirloom tomatoes to almonds. Many of these restaurants partner with local farmers to ensure the ingredients are at peak freshness, making for dishes that highlight the Valley’s bounty.
Farm tours are another fantastic way to experience Central Valley’s rich agriculture firsthand. Farms like the Gibson Farm Market, associated with Fresno State, or smaller, family-owned operations often open their doors to visitors, offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and olive oils. Many of these farms also host special events and harvest dinners, where guests dine outdoors among the orchards and fields.
In Modesto and Turlock, weekend farmers’ markets offer a direct link to the area’s producers. Visitors can enjoy fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and even local wines, creating a true farm-to-table picnic experience. From market stops to open-air dinners under the stars, dining in California’s Central Valley celebrates both the region’s incredible produce and the people who cultivate it.
A Carmel Culinary Vacation
The one-square-mile, charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a vibrant food and wine scene amid historic, fairytale architecture and stunning ocean views. Boasting the highest number of restaurants per capita than any other small city in the United States, visitors can explore more than 60 restaurants—all within walking distance—from intimate bistros and boutique wineries that showcase the region’s gastronomic richness. Carmel’s restaurants highlight the Central California Coast’s finest ingredients, from Big Sur-foraged mushrooms and fresh Monterey seafood to vibrant produce from the Salinas Valley.
Carmel-by-the-Sea is also renowned for its array of locally owned wine-tasting rooms that highlight the best of Monterey County’s wineries. Visitors can discover their favorite varietals, learn about the wine-making process, and immerse themselves in the area’s celebrated wine culture. Sip and savor Monterey County wines through the Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Walk mobile guide.
KEEP READING:
–The family-friendly California attraction you’ve never heard of but need to visit
–5 family-friendly California road trip ideas from Los Angeles
–The 10 most Instagrammable tourist attractions in California
–California road trip: Los Angeles to San Francisco and must-visit stops along the way
–Our first family trip to Legoland and The Castle Hotel
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