Generated with sparks and insights from 9 sources

Travel Tips

Start with breakfast at Bonnie Lu's and end with a drink at Chief’s Peak or Deer Lodge. 1

Don't miss the unique outdoor bookstore Bart's Books and make sure to try the gunpowder fries at Hip Vegan. 2

Enjoy the organic market and cafe, Farmer and the Cook, for a memorable meal. 3

Explore small hotels, spa days, and wine tasting. Consider visiting nearby Santa Ynez Valley or Santa Barbara for more wine options. 4

Great stop for outdoor enthusiasts, with Los Padres National Forest nearby. 5

Hike the Pratt Trail or Rose Valley Falls Trails. Visit the Ojai Certified Farmers Market and Cluff Vista Park for sunset views. 6

Visit the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts and the Ojai Art Center to immerse yourself in the local art scene. 7

Explore local art and enjoy treatments at the spa for a rejuvenating experience. 8

Exploring the art and culture in Ojai can be a budget-friendly experience with many galleries and cultural events available. 9

Experience the Kuyam treatment at Ojai Valley Inn's Spa Ojai. 10

Introduction

History

• 📅 Established: Azu was founded over 20 years ago by Laurel Moore.
• 🏛️ Building: Located in a historic 1910 building that once housed Bill Baker’s bakery.
• 🔄 Evolution: Originally started as Panini & Gelato before becoming a full-service restaurant.
• 👩‍👧 Family: Laurel Moore and her daughter have been central to Azu's operations.
• 🍽️ Transition: Shifted from Spanish-Mediterranean to Spanish-Mexican cuisine over the years.
• 🍺 Brewery: Began serving beer from Ojai Valley Brewery in 2017.
• 🔒 Closure: The restaurant closed in 2019 as Moore retired and her daughter focused on the brewery.

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Cuisine

• 🍽️ Fusion: Combines Spanish, Mediterranean, and North African flavors with a California twist.
• 🌮 Favorites: Paella, burgers, and fried chicken sandwiches were customer favorites.
• 🍰 Desserts: Known for its chocolate soufflé with fresh whipped cream and salt caramel gelato.
• 🥗 Options: Offers organic, vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options.
• 🍳 Brunch: Features items like sweet potato waffles and blueberry lemon pancakes.

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Brewery

• 🍺 Local Beers: Features beers like Pixie (tangerine), Sugar Bush (sumac), and Chapparal (sage) ales.
• 🌿 Terroir: Beers are characterized by low carbonation, high alcohol content, and a sense of place.
• 💧 Water: Uses filtered, mineral-filled Ojai water for brewing.
• 🎉 Events: Plans for special events like Octubrefest, a Mexican take on Oktoberfest.
• 🐾 Pet-Friendly: The taproom is family- and pet-friendly, with games, fire pits, and ample parking.

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Atmosphere

• 🏡 Historic: Located in a lovingly restored 1910 building.
• 🔥 Cozy: Features a fireplace dining room and a garden patio.
• 🎨 Creative: Known for its warm, inclusive atmosphere filled with interesting people.
• 🍽️ Dining Areas: Multiple dining areas with approximately 160 seats.
• 🍹 Bars: Two full bars, one in the front and one in the private dining room.

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Events

• 🎉 Versatile: Used for weddings, corporate events, birthdays, and more.
• 🍽️ Private Dining: Features a large private dining area with a separate kitchen and full bar.
• 🌿 Garden: Adjoining garden patio for outdoor events.
• 🏨 Collaboration: Works closely with Ojai Valley Inn and other hotels for private dining needs.
• 🎃 Halloween: Continues the tradition of Halloween parties started at Azu.

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Ingredients

• 🌿 Fresh: Emphasizes fresh, local, and organic ingredients.
• 🍊 Local: Uses produce from local farmers and citrus orchards.
• 🍽️ Quality: Strives to provide the tastiest and freshest ingredients.
• 🌱 Organic: Offers organic, vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options.
• 🍷 Beverages: Craft cocktails with juices squeezed from local citrus.

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Beverages

• 🍹 Craft Cocktails: Features craft cocktails with fresh juices from local citrus orchards.
• 🍷 Wine: Offers over 20 local and international wines by the glass.
• 🍺 Beer: Features beers from the Ojai Valley Brewery on tap.
• 🍸 Variety: Extensive beverage menu including local wines and craft cocktails.
• 🍇 Local Vineyards: Includes wines from The Ojai Alisal Vineyard.

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