Since FARM-TIQUE is right around the corner and we have a number of invited guests coming from far-away, we thought we'd create a local guide to give all the out-of-towners a place to reference. Ukiah is our hometown, so we know this small town like the back of our hand, but this county has a lot to offer inland and along the gorgeously-rugged coast. Check it out! You can also find our Mendocino Coast-specific guide here. We highly recommend taking a drive to the coast, even if it's just for the day. It's a great way to escape the heat inland and also get a full sense of our county!
- Cultivo: If you're in the mood for delicious pizza, salad, or a grass-fed steak, look no further! Just do yourself a favor and order bastone for the table - with all the sauces. You can find our Boeket wines here by the bottle, as well as some awesome, local beers. Say 'hi' to Fernando, the head chef who was actually the first to give our wines a home in a local restaurant! We haven't forgotten that, nor will you forget a meal at Cultivo. It's easily our go-to for a night out in Downtown Ukiah and the food is always spot-on. They also serve lunch now, too!
- Left Coast Seafood & Marketplace: Next door, you'll find Ukiah's newest spot, which makes incredible seafood dishes from the freshest, local caught, sustainable & wild seafood. This always-packed place almost always has some exciting special, whether it's creamy seafood risotto or a boil of the best catches of the day, accompanied by a toasted slice of sourdough. Not to be missed are the "Poseidon fries," which are their version of In-&-Out's "animal fries," but with seafood. By the bottle is our Sauvignon Blanc and Heritage Blend, both are which are food-friendly!
- Ellie's Mutt Hutt: Looking for a quick lunch bite? This is your Ukiah spot. We've been coming here for years for lunchtime favorites like the chili cheese dog, chicken and brown rice dish, BBQ chicken salad wrap, and chicken linguine. If you're vegetarian or vegan, they also have a ton of delicious options, too!
- Oco Time: This intimate sushi spot calls itself a "California-Japanese restaurant" and it's known for some of the coolest dishes in town. Their Oco is worth trying if you've never had it before, but we usually go the sushi roll route and order their 'One Love' or 'Rainbow' rolls for the table. Make a reservation if you can!
- El Azteca: We love Mexican food and this family-owned spot is a local favorite. You can't really go wrong with anything on the menu...except maybe one too many Consuelo bowls (their version of a Scorpion bowl cocktail)!
- The Broiler Steakhouse: This Redwood Valley steakhouse has been around since the 1960's and is known for its juicy steaks and house salads served in a dim, steakhouse environment. Make a reservation but come early so you can saddle up to the bar and people watch.
- Black Oak Coffee: We're pretty lucky to have an awesome coffee company in our small town! If you're looking for a special latte or all-around good beans, pop into this local spot. They also have great pasteries for a sweet morning pick-me-up.
- Dolus: If you love Greek food, you'll love this local spot that's become a favorite of ours. A great lunch spot close to downtown.
- Schat's Bakery: If you're looking for a quick breakfast or lunch bite, our local bakery is a great downtown option. Lots of great pastries and sandwiches and outdoor seating if you're looking to people watch.
- Hector's Snow Cone Stop: Hot summers in Ukiah call for a local snow cone at this no-frills spot. So many great flavors, but 'Tiger's Blood' hits every time.
More recommendations on our Coast guide here.
- Yokayo Ranch: A hidden gem in Ukiah, this gorgeous 40-acre property has two large houses and two cabins - perfect for large groups looking for a retreat from fast-paced life. Rachel has done an incredible job breathing new life into this venue, complete with tasteful interior design that feels cozy yet elevated and totally California-cool. The pool is an added bonus and the property isn't far from the historic Downtown. Very close to our ranch.
- Thatcher Hotel: South of Ukiah in the small town of Hopland, the Thatcher Hotel offers historic charm in a modern, updated hotel space. Amenities include pool access, the downstairs Bar Thatcher and Cafe Poppy, complimentary wi-fi, and close proximity to Hopland eateries like The Golden Pig. About 20 minutes from our ranch.
- Boonville Hotel: Only fifteen rooms at this Anderson Valley hotel and you'll feel really special to have nabbed one of them! Each space is super unique and varies in size, from the cottages to the upstairs rooms. Best part is the close proximity to valley wineries and the hotel's fabulous restaurant that feels like you were invited to a local dinner party with newfound friends. About 35 minutes from our ranch.
- Albion River Inn: If you're looking for a romantic seaside stay, it's hard to beat the Albion River Inn. The rooms are cozy, complete with wood-burning fireplaces, ocean views, and spa tubs for maximum relaxation. Though a little bit of a drive into town, it's a beautiful inn if you're looking for a weekend escape from the crowds.
- Mendocino Grove: Forget the pre-conceived notions you may have about "glamping" because there's no frilly tents to be found here. This coastal campground feels like an adult summer camp we'd love to attend all season long. Canvas tents sit atop redwood decks and provide the perfect place to retire to after socializing in the common area with other campers. Bonus: the actual bathrooms beat "roughing it" in the woods.
- Hampton Inn & Suites: A great, affordable option if you're looking to be close to Ukiah amenities and FARM-TIQUE. There's a pool and complimentary WiFi, plus free breakfast that makes traveling easy. About 10 minutes from our ranch.
- Grace Hudson Museum & Sun House: Grace Hudson (1865-1937) was not only a Ukiah native, but a nationally-admired artist whose lifeworks are worth seeing. The museum highlights her artwork, as well as regional art, culture, and natural history. The Native American influence is really special here. Next door is the Sun House, which is Grace and her husband's former craftsman home, which you can also tour.
- Ridgewood Ranch (a.k.a. the Seabiscuit Ranch): This Willits ranch is home to Seabiscuit, one of the greatest racehorses that ever lived. Though Seabiscuit passed away a while ago, his spirit lives on and walking tours begin again on June 19th.
- Vichy Springs: Established in 1854, this resort and day spa has naturally carbonated "Vichy baths" that flow from 30,000 feet below the surface into the adjacent spring source and directly into 154-year old tubs. There's also an olympic-size swimming pool, a hot pool, and the Chemisal Falls Pool if you're looking for a secluded spot that's about a 30-minute hike.
- Montgomery Woods: If you're looking to get your fern forest and Redwoods fix, head to this state natural reserve! There's a two-mile loop trail that is steep to start, but rewarding. Montgomery Woods is about 13 miles NW of Ukiah on the twisty Orr Springs Road.
- Ukiah Valley Golf Course: Play 9 or 18 holes at Ukiah's municipal golf course, which is located close to local eateries and shopping so you can reward yourself after a great round.
- Mendocino Coast: Our coast, which is about an hour (or a little longer if going through Anderson Valley) from Ukiah, is loved by locals and tourists alike. If you can even just spend the day on the coast here, we highly recommend making it a part of your travel plans. Our full coast guide is here.
- Eden: Located on School Street in Downtown Ukiah, our favorite boutique is totally western-meets-punk-meets-vintage vibes. Owner Hannah has curated a collection of killer vinyl, vintage band tees, unique jewelry, western hats, and vintage decor you'll love. It's not your average boutique and that's precisely what keeps us coming back!
- Boutique 120: You'll love their selection of quality basics, graphic tees, affordable denim, and pretty jewelry. There's also a men's section, too!
- Hometown Store: Quality kitchen goods and sweet gifts make this family-owned spot feel like a Sur La Table-meets-gift shop where you're sure to find something you have to have.
- Mendocino Book Company: If you forgot a vacation book, check our local bookstore. Lots of popular, new titles, plus a locals section.
- Shoefly & Sox: We love this funky shoe shop for classics (like our Blundstones) but also for finding fun gifts.
- Farmhouse Mercantile: Located in Anderson Valley, this sweet mercantile has lots of local goods you'll want to add to your farmhouse. We're big fans and we always have to stop whenever we're passing through.
- Westside Renaissance Market: Westside Ukiah's charming market that's packed to the brim with an excellent beer selection, ice cream sandwiches, and homemade food to-go.
- Forks Ranch Market: Awesome family-owned spot just down the road from Cox Vineyards; perfect for grabbing quick sandwiches and old-fashioned soda pop.
- Ukiah Natural Foods Co-Op: Our town's natural food store has had quite the glow-up in recent months; great to-go food selection from Oco Time (sushi) and Boont Berry Farm.
- Ukiah Farmers Market (Saturdays): Small but sweet, our town's farmers market takes place in the historic downtown district on School Street.