Los Angeles: Side Trips

Drive north two hours from L.A. for wine tasting in the Santa Ynez Valley, like they did in the movie Sideways. The restaurants in San Luis Obispo have gotten pretty good, and the wine — while not cheap — has gotten great. Eat at the Hitching Post II (just like in the movie) in Buellton and visit the beautiful Bridlewood Estate Winery. If you want a splurge, pick up a bottle of Whitcraft lagrein or Sea Smoke pinot noir.

On the way back, stop by Santa Barbara. It's a cute little beach town with rich people and a taco stand, La Super-Rica Taqueria, that was one of Julia Child's favorite restaurants.

• 1. Hitching Post II
  406 East Highway, #246, Buellton, CA 93427; 805-688-0676 34.608784-120.181562 hitchingpost2.com
• 2. Bridlewood Estate Winery
  3555 Roblar Avenue, Santa Ynez, CA 93460; 805-688-9000 34.652066-120.082208 bridlewoodwinery.com
• 3. Whitcraft Winery
  36 A South Calle Cesar Chavez, Santa Barbara, CA 93103; 805-730-1680 34.417592-119.68116 whitcraftwinery.com
• 4. Sea Smoke Cellars
  1712 Industrial Way, Lompoc, CA 93436; 805-737-1600 34.642796-120.43714 seasmokecellars.com