2025 Best of Santa Clara River Valley Awards
Chamber of Commerce announces winners, we make our recommendations
Best of Santa Clara River Valley Awards
The Chamber of Commerce recently announced the “Best of” Santa Clara River Valley businesses and services, as voted on by area residents. The competition received more than 17,000 votes, and results have been published in the Santa Paula Times, which was also voted “Best Business Services.”
Winners are to be recognized at the 63rd annual Chamber Awards on Wednesday, May 28 at 5:30 PM in the Palazzio Event Center (Downtown Santa Paula on Main Street).
Here’s a rundown of the ones that stood out to us, and why we agree that they deserve to be recognized as the “Best of.”
Best Animal Services / Best Non-Profit
Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center (SPARC)
This one feels like both a celebration of this beloved no-kill shelter (the only one in the county) and a mourning for the loss of its city funding. While the Center is no longer accepting more animals, it is still providing shelter and medical care to roughly 60 dogs and cats that still need homes. Many of us in the community have shaken a fist (or maybe flipped a particular bird) at the City for failing to follow through on its financial commitments to the shelter. (The City has since denied any breach of trust and has taken over animal control services.) If you would like to pledge your support to SPARC, visit their website (linked above) to donate. They will continue to provide spay/neuter and vaccination clinics for the city.
Best Bakery / Best Cocktail
Rabalais’ Bistro, Coffee and Bakery
One of the oldest and most recognized rituals of a trip to Rab’s is strolling over to the bakery counter, hovering over it, eyeballing its various delectables, and feeling one’s mouth water at the possibilities. Is that strawberry-rhubarb pie? Red velvet cupcakes? German chocolate cupcakes? Coconut macaroons?? Rab’s baker, Vanessa, is a force of nature, turning out everything from cakes and pies to tarts to flourless cookies — and yes, Rab’s famous beignets. You probably won’t see much of Vanessa around the holidays, through, as she’s usually holed up in the kitchen, whipping up 100 or more catering orders on a daily basis. (Rab’s encourages you to order your holiday desserts well in advance. Keep an eye out for their Instagram announcements starting in late fall.) As for the Best Cocktail nod? We say, Hell, yes! 'Nuff said.
Best Burger / Best French Fries
The Draft Sports Bar at Mupu Grill
If you’re looking for solid pub fare without a lot of fuss but a helluva lot of flavor, you’ll find it at The Draft. We can also vouch for their onion rings. Yum!
Our recommendation: Also check out the fries at Parque 1055. Cut shoestring style and served with a side of garlic aioli, these have become my frequent — and dangerous — craving.
Best Children’s/Family Activities
Gather and Play Café
Featuring everything from chess to Dungeons and Dragons, this café sells a variety of board and card games, while inviting you to stay and play a while. (Hint: It’s not just for kids.)
Best Dessert
Enzo’s Restaurant (inside The Glen Tavern Inn)
We would also argue: Enzo’s has some of the best appetizers (try the stuffed portobello mushroom) and hands-down the best (historic/retro) atmosphere in town.
Note: Enzo’s is closed for the next week or so for kitchen maintenance.
Best Dinner
Hozy’s Grill
Hozy’s is a rare mix of fine dining in a casual atmosphere, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by photos of classic cars and an extensive wine library that’s been recognized by Wine Spectator magazine. This is our go-to for anniversaries and birthdays. Be sure to make reservations for the best shot at getting a table.
Best Grocery Store / Best Lunch
Garden Market
449 N 10th St. | (805) 420-9045
This locally owned bodega provides everything from sundries to fresh produce to a butcher counter with some of the best cuts of meat to be had — at competitive prices. Also look for the service window in the back, where you can order tacos, burritos, and full plates (meals) to go. We love their chili verde and al pastor burritos, as well as the tri-tip plate.
Best Happy Hour
Parque 1055
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Every Day
From novel appetizers (Fried avocado tacos, anyone?) to discounted cocktails, beer, and wine, you really can’t go wrong. Parque 1055 feels like an L.A.-style restaurant, with a much friendlier vibe. Whether you go for a girls’ night out, date night, a family dinner, or a special event, you’ll feel at home there. We recommend relaxing in their expansive (and dog-friendly) courtyard with water feature. And yes, you read that right: Happy hour is available 7 days a week.
Our recommendation: Also check out happy hour at Rabalais’ Bistro (Tuesday through Friday) for cocktails that pack a punch and a selection of delicious and affordable appetizers.
Best Live Entertainment
The Fermentation House (formerly Anna’s Cider)
From Karaoke Wednesdays to live (and usually local) bands on Fridays and Saturdays, the corner of 8th and Main is your party central.
Best Mexican Food/Best Margaritas
El Capricho
This sit-down Mexican Restaurant on Main Street offers top-flight fare and a full bar. Just note: Due to city ordinance, alcohol is not permitted at the sidewalk tables. Their back patio also hosts live music and events.
Best Outdoor Dining
Flight 126 Café (The Hangar Bar and Grille)
Situated along the perimeter of the privately owned Santa Paula Airport, Flight 126 and its sister restaurant, The Hangar, offer prime viewing for take-offs and landings. Enjoy your meal while taking in scenic views of South Mountain and its iconic “SP” logo etched into the vegetation, as private pilots hone their skills just a few feet away from your steak and eggs.
Your Turn
What are some of your faves? What would you like to see featured in The 805 Diary? Let me know in the comments or by responding to this email.
Salúd!