Category: Food & Beverage

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Coachella 2026

My top 3 that made it unforgettable & my Top 3 I wish never happened

The group minus two

Top 3 that made it unforgettable

1. Friends

This was my first Coachella, and I couldn’t have spent it with better people. Being able to experience the festival with close friends was truly an unforgettable experience, as some of them were also experiencing it for the first time.

2. El Moro Churros
  • Coachella Announcement by El Morro
  • IG post by el Morro
  • personal picture

I was obsessed with these churros, and obsessed is an understatement. There are a couple of people selling churros and other snacks at the festival, but what attracted me the most about this one was their setup, which seemed like a little store. The churros were 4 for $20 or 2 for $12. The first day, I got the four pieces of churros twice because the way they are freshly made, soft yet crunchy, and had a dipping sauce, just made me hungry. On the other two days, I only got the four pieces of churros once, but got my friends to get them too. They are a churro company based in Mexico City, which was amazing to learn, as well as their opening a shop in LA.

3. First Latina Female Headliner
  • Karol G
  • All female mariachi
  • J Balvin
  • Becky G

Karol G is the first Latina female headliner at Coachella, and although this may not be big for some people, it is for my Latin community. I think she definitely delivered a great performance, bringing out some of my favorite Latin artists like Peso Pluma, Becky G, and J Balvin. She also brought out an all-female mariachi group, which was such a cool twist to her performance. I really do wish everyone I knew could experience this one night as everyone around us singing and dancing and just having the time of our lives.

Top 3 that I wish never happened

1. Waiting 3 hours to get a shuttle back home

It’s the night of Justin Bieber’s performance, and as we imagined, it was really full. I think it was the fullest set out of three headliners, and going back home at the same time as everyone was no joke. We had been at the festival for 8+ hours at this point, and I was excited to go home as I was tired from all the walking and my back had been hurting. When we got to the shuttle line, we realized we were towards the end, but didn’t think much about it until time started passing by. An hour went by, then another, and during the last hour, I checked the time, and it was 4:15 in the morning when Justin had ended his performance at 1 a.m. Thankfully, the shuttle came shortly after that, and I slept on the way home but didn’t get home until 5 a.m. I was in disbelief and told my group I hated Coachella and would not go on the last day.

2. Caring about the outfit

I took black boots the first day of the festival and instantly regretted it. I checked my Oura ring during the last set, and I had already gotten over 18k steps. I obviously didn’t learn my lesson because I wore boots for the last day as well, knowing my feet were super tired and I was probably going to get blisters. Why did I do it? I did it for the sole reason that it made the outfit put together. I was so worried about my outfits being cute that I forgot to pack comfy shoes. I also didn’t take into consideration that from all that walking and heat, my feet were going to swell up a bit. Are the pictures cute? I like to think so, but definitely not worth it, so the next time I go back I’m definitely dressing comfy.

3. Leaving my homework until the due day

This one is a no-brainer. The night before, I had gotten home at 5 a.m., and I knew my assignment was due that day at 10p.m. I had to make sure I woke up early to get it done, as I wasn’t sure how long it would take me to do. Thankfully, one of my friends helped me by making my breakfast as I worked on it, so I didn’t lose time. I have a recording section on the assignment, which always takes me a million times to keep it within the time frame, plus our other friends were starting to play loud music, and that’s when I hated myself for waiting. I got it done with only 1 hour left to shower, find the right outfit, do my makeup, and hair. I think this stress could’ve definitely been avoided, but at the end I’m glad I got it done just in time to enjoy our last day at Coachella.

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Student Life at VC Food & Beverage Food & Dining Advice

Ultimate California Getaway Weekend!

What screams California more than Disneyland and live concerts? The answer is… absolutely nothing. Join Devin and I on our ultimate California getaway weekend where we will take on two days at Disneyland and a Lauren Spencer Smith concert! This trip is especially exciting because we are going during the Food and Wine Festival.

Disneyland Castle

You can find everything from food reviews to rides to two friends being silly and carefree in a place that brings them so much joy. See how many pop culture references you can catch between the two of us. The video includes our favorite rides and our honest opinions about everything we ate.

We try a variety of drinks from the Food and Wine Festival. Including drinks like a strawberry rum mimosa, blood orange beer and a pink guava mango seltzer. Make sure to watch to see our ranking.

We also went to a Lauren Spencer Smith concert, which was amazing. There are some of my favorite moments from the concert, including a surprise song, crowd chanting, spilling secrets and much more. My favorite part of the show, hands down, was being surprised that her band had cardboard cutouts of One Direction. She is an insanely talented vocalist and I included clips of her singing live so everyone can fall in love with her voice just like I did.

Make sure to watch the video below for the full run down of our weekend. This includes our ranking of food and drinks, rides, story times, messing around, singing, tips, and more!

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Business Food & Beverage Local Business Spotlight

Love at First Sip: A Spotlight on El Abuelo Coffee and Bakery.

Paulina Montes said, “It’s the coffee shop Fillmore residents have been waiting for.”

For some people, coffee is all about the taste. For others, it’s about comfort and connection.  Personally, I’ve always been a coffee lover. It’s that familiar taste that takes me back to my childhood, when I’d visit my grandmother’s house in Mexico and the smell of coffee would fill the house at breakfast time or when night fell and we’d all drink coffee while chatting and spending time together as a family.

That’s why coffee has always been my favorite drink. One of the things I enjoy most is visiting different coffee shops and trying different drinks. Nowadays, there are countless coffee shops in Ventura County that serve good coffee, but there’s one in particular with something that keeps me coming back.

Located in Fillmore, California, El Abuelo Coffee and Bakery offers freshly brewed coffee, lattes, cappuccinos, frappes, non-coffee drinks, and delicious sweet treats such as Mexican pan dulce, pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and croissants. One thing that makes it authentic is its organic coffee, which is imported from Puebla, Mexico. Isn’t that awesome? I’m not going to lie—as a Mexican, that was one of the things that made me want to visit the shop.

The first thing you notice when you walk into the coffee shop is the smell of coffee. Spanish music is always playing, keeping the vibe going. The setting is absolutely beautiful, with tables and cozy seating. For those who are not just there for the coffee, they sell other products such as local honey, bags of house-roasted coffee, soft drinks, energy drinks, and kid-friendly drinks. They also carry Compa Munchies products (Mexican-inspired chamoy candies and treats.)

The customer service is excellent, and the staff and baristas are friendly. Whenever I visit, it’s usually during the busiest rush hour, yet the staff always keeps the line moving. Every time I go, my order is handled correctly.

If you like sweet coffee drinks, I’d recommend the iced café de olla and the Biscoff latte. If you want something to pair with your coffee, try the conchas. Trust me- you won’t regret it.

If you’re a coffee lover like me or just want to try something new, this is the place to go. Step inside if you find yourself nearby—you might end up discovering your new favorite spot.

You can find the coffee shop as @elabuelocoffeeandbakery on Instagram. 

Address: 715 Ventura St Unit E, Fillmore, CA 93015

Hours: Mon-Sat / 5 AM-7 PM 

             Sun / 5 AM-2 PM.

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Business Food & Beverage Food & Dining Social Media Student Life at VC

Oxnard New Restaurant Review

Los Guerreros Restaurant/Cafe

​I recently reviewed a new restaurant in Oxnard called Los Guerreros Restaurant and Cafe, located at 111 S. Rose Ave. They’ve been open since January 2026, and the second I walked in, I got a real “at-home” feeling. It’s a quiet, relaxing spot that reminds me of a classic mom-and-pop shop the kind of place where you can actually eat in peace.

​The first thing that stood out to me was the value. In today’s world, finding a street hot dog for $5 is wild! We ordered the Inka Burger, Birria Tacos, and Mayan Fries, along with a Horchata and Agua de Fresa. My best advice? Go in with a huge appetite. The portions are massive and will definitely fill you up. Everything from the food to the drinks was delicious, and you really can’t beat those prices.

​Owner Q&A: Alvaro Ortiz

​I had the chance to sit down with the owner, Alvaro Ortiz, to talk about his vision for the restaurant/cafe.

​What inspired you to open a Mexican restaurant?

“The knowledge I have of Mexican food. I know I can make the best food to serve my customers.”

​Which of your salsas is the best?

“They are all great tasting!”

​Do you want to expand your business one day?

“Yes, I’d love to move into a bigger restaurant.”

​What is the biggest hardship you’ve faced since opening?

“Bringing in new customers and handling the marketing side of the business.”

Overall this restaurant was delicious and you must try it at least once.

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTk9bgsXo/

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community Food & Beverage Social Media

 The Social Taste Test

Nowadays, people of this generation rely on TikTok for inspiration on where to go for a chill, boring Sunday morning or for a fun going out with friends type of deal. Well, today is your lucky day, I’ve assorted four different places to try in Ventura and LA County. Two morning spots in Ventura County and two night out spots in LA County. My best friend and I decided to try some new places on a Sunday, giving people places they might not have known of before being told. 

#1: Anacappuccino (VTA)

289 E Post Hueneme Rd, Port Hueneme, Ca 93041

Anacappunccino is a cute little spot to grab a drink or even a morning snack. I got the small iced vanilla matcha which came out to $6.60. I would rate 9/10 because for starters, I’m not a big matcha person at all but I really enjoyed it. The flavors were sweet,earthy and slightly bitter. I would’ve rated it a 10/10 but because they added alot of ice, it watered down quicker then I would’ve liked.

#2: Fresco Juice Bar (VTA)

417 East Port Hueneme Road, Port Hueneme, Ca 93041

Fresco Juice Bar is more of a grab-and-go little hole in the wall. Wheather It’s going to the beach with your friends or having a chill day at home. I got the small Dubai Chocolate Acai Bowl which came out to $12.42. I would rate it a 10/10 because It was perfect amount of creamy, crunchy , and refreshing. I would definitely come back again, the staff were all very sweet and welcoming.

#3: East Street Burgers (LA)

4143 Lankershim Boulevard, Toluca Lake, Ca 91602

Easy Street Burgers is the perfect spot to munch on after a concert or sporting event. It’s a little pricey but it’s worth it. I got the double jalapeño monster meal and upgraded to cajun fries which came out to $24.12 which is not surprising for being LA. I would rate it a 10/10 because their house sauce is the perfect amount of a bitter mustard taste that goes perfect with the rest of the food. It was our first time there and we had alot of questions that the staff had no issues answering and making recommendations.

#4: Margaritaville (LA)

City Walk, Universal City, CA 91608

Margaritaville is a nice way to end the night out. Obviously for those over 21. It’s in a perfect location because It’s in City walk and theres so many other food places to eat after having a cute little drink. My friend and I both got the same two drinks. The first drink is called Blue Lagoon, which came out to $15.25 and the second is called Bama Breeze, which came out to $16.50. Blue Lagoon gave a bright citrusy vibe where Bama Breeze gave more tropical, creamy and refreshing vibe. We would rate them a 7/10 because both were really good, but the only thing was that we wished it had a bit more alcohol.

Final Thoughts

First of all, I’m thankful for my friend who accompanied me in this rating journey. It was a very fun Sunday and I’m happy to share my thoughts with other people. My friend and I were debating to stay local or to go explore which we decided on both. These are places we both have never been to but have wanted to try which were found either through friends or TikTok.

So I recommend getting a friend, going out there, and trying new things. Not only just to rate new places but to create new memories. We were having such a blast and learning new things about each other that we never would have if it weren’t for going out there to these new places. We’ve been friends for almost half a decade, and I never knew she didn’t like pineapple.

Categories
community Food & Beverage Local Business Spotlight

Balancing It All On A Busy Saturday

Morning Routine

I usually start my day pretty early, especially when I know I have a lot to get done. One thing that helps me get into a good mindset is going to Ragamuffin before work. I like getting a drink and something small to eat and just sitting down to get some homework done before the day gets busy.

That morning, I got an iced matcha and a muffin and worked on a couple of assignments. Being in that kind of environment helps me focus way more than being at home, and I was actually able to finish two assignments before 9:30 a.m. Starting my day like that made me feel really productive and set a good tone for everything else I had going on.

Work Life

After that, I went straight to work and clocked in at 9:45. It was supposed to be a shorter shift, but it ended up being really busy, which made it feel longer than it actually was. We had multiple parties come in, including one with 31 people, so the restaurant was pretty packed.

It definitely got a little stressful at times, but I am used to that kind of environment. Working while being in school has taught me how to manage my time better and stay on top of things, even when it feels a little overwhelming.

Spending Time With Friends

When I got off around 2, I went home to pick up my dogs and then headed to Ventura Harbor to meet up with a couple of my classmates. They were there covering an event called “Short Dawgs In Da House,” which was honestly really cute.

Even though I got there toward the end, it was still fun. My dog loved it because she is really social and got to be around a bunch of other dogs. After the event, we walked around the harbor and got some ice cream since it was pretty hot out. It was a really simple moment, but after a busy day, it felt nice to just slow down and hang out.

Time To Reset

Later, I went to a yoga class at Grassroots Yoga, and it ended up being one of the best parts of my day. The class focused on breathwork and a sound bath, and it was exactly what I needed after such a busy day.

The whole atmosphere was really calming, and I felt relaxed the entire time. It was a nice break from how busy the rest of my day had been, and it helped me slow down and just be present for a bit. The staff there were also really welcoming, which made the experience even better. It is definitely a place I want to keep going back to.

Ending Of The Day

After yoga, I went to the beach for a little bit just to be by myself and relax. The sunset was really pretty, and being there helped me clear my head after such a long day.

When I got home, I made some tea and watched Law & Order: SVU, which is one of my favorite shows. It is kind of my go-to way to end the day and just fully relax.

Reflection

Saturdays are usually my busiest days because I try to fit everything in, including work, spending time with friends, and catching up on homework. It can feel like a lot when the day is packed from morning to night, but it is also the day where I feel the most productive.

Even though it gets overwhelming at times, I have learned how important it is to balance everything instead of just focusing on one thing. Being able to get my work done, still have a social life, and take time for myself all in one day makes it feel worth it. Days like this are busy, but they also remind me that I am capable of handling a lot at once.

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Food & Beverage Food & Dining Local Business Spotlight Uncategorized

A Local Spot Built on Family and Flavor

Ozeki Noodle, located on Esplanade Drive in Oxnard, is more than just a restaurant. It is a family-rooted business that has become a familiar part of the community over the years. Although the owner does not know the exact year it opened, they believe the restaurant began sometime in the late 1990s or early 2000s.

According to the owner, family was the original reason for opening the restaurant. That family-centered beginning still shapes Ozeki Noodle today. More than just a place to eat, the restaurant offers a welcoming environment built on tradition, connection, and service.

When asked about the restaurant’s signature dish, the owner pointed to “Udon”. The dish stands out as a staple of the menu and reflects the comforting style of food the restaurant is known for.

The owner also shared that what they enjoy most about running Ozeki Noodle is the people. Serving customers and connecting with the community continues to be one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

That connection is clear in the experience of returning customers. One customer said, “I always come back for the spicy pork and for their great service.” Their comment highlights not only the restaurant’s food, but also the hospitality that keeps people coming back.

The owner also shared an older menu, showing that prices used to be much lower, a reminder of how much times have changed for small restaurants. Even so, Ozeki Noodle continues to stand out as a place that offers both quality food and a strong sense of community.

Ozeki Noodle shows how a family-driven restaurant can become a meaningful part of a city. With its signature udon, popular spicy pork, and strong customer service, it continues to offer Oxnard a place where food and community come together.

Ozeki Noodle | 349 W Esplanade Dr, Oxnard, CA 93036

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Advice Business Food & Beverage Local Business Spotlight Student Life at VC Study Spots

Top Five Study Spots in Ventura

Screenshot

For most college students right now, the end of the semester is right around the corner, which means we’re all cramming in the last few assignments before finals. When it comes to getting work done, a lot of us focus better with a cozy table, a warm drink nearby, and an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere. But in my experience, and from talking to many of my peers, finding the perfect study spot can be a challenge. Every place has its pros and cons.

So where do you even start?

Today I’m sharing a top five list that I compiled from personal experience and a little bit of survey research. I talked to 20 students at Ventura College and asked them one question: What is your favorite spot to study at, and why?

For the “why,” I expanded and asked them to consider factors like price and availability, along with anything else they value in a study spot. Here’s what they said:

Kaapicat Cafe
  1. Kaapicat Cafe 377 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001
    If you haven’t heard of Kaapicat yet, you just might discover your new favorite study destination. They are a family-owned café in the heart of downtown Ventura, with delicious breakfast food that mixes Indian flavors with American brunch items. Personally, I love their tea menu. Multiple students chose this place as their favorite, with the main reason being the spacious seating area, multiple outlets, and a staff that’s warm and welcoming. The café describes itself as a place for “remote workers, solitary readers, and writers” which welcomes students looking for a coffee shop to be at for hours on end.
  2. Cajé Coffee Roasters 71 N Palm St, Ventura, CA 93001
    Cajé is a newly trending spot for aesthetically pleasing food and drinks, with a beautiful atmosphere both inside and out on the huge patio. Students that suggested Cajé to me highlighted the insane amount of seating, reliable WiFi, and available outlets inside. And of course, the main reason it seems to be a crowd favorite is because it’s a very pleasing atmosphere to be in. It’s a solid pick whether you’re there for a couple hours to study or a common group study meetup spot. Some things to consider: Weekends get very busy and wait times can be longer, so weekday mornings or early afternoons are your best bet. The parking situation is also less than ideal— the back lot fills up fast and the only other  free public lot is a short walk away.
  3. Simones Coffee & Tea Two locations: 7818 Telegraph Rd & 2848 Cabrillo Dr, Ventura
    Simones has been a Ventura staple since 1996, and  it’s been voted “Favorite Coffeehouse” in the county year after year, and for good reason. Many students chose Simones at their go to spot, mentioning that they have good WiFi, plenty of outlets, and a comfortable atmosphere that doesn’t make you feel like you need to buy something every 20 minutes. The Telegraph Road location is open seven days a week, and seemed to be the preferred location. The Cabrillo location is closed on weekends and the general consensus is that it’s more specifically for the workers at the hospital across the street (although some people reported it being pretty empty inside because of that reason). Some things to consider: There isn’t a huge amount of seating, especially when it’s busier or if you’re looking for an outlet since they are along the wall.
  4. Barnes & Noble Booksellers 4820 Telephone Rd, Ventura, CA 93003
    Stepping away from the coffee shops, Barnes & Noble is  on this list for a very obvious reason: you don’t have to buy anything to sit and study. That’s a big deal when you’re already stretched thin (as most college students might be). Besides the financial factor, the students who suggested Barnes & Noble pointed out good WiFi, a noticeably quieter crowd compared to most coffee shops, and a low-pressure atmosphere. I will admit that there’s something about being surrounded by books that gives you more motivation to focus. There is an  in-store Starbucks, so you can grab a drink if you want one but not making it a requirement is a huge bonus for this spot.
  5. E.P. Foster Library 651 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001
    A classic choice that is often overlooked. E.P. Foster Library is a free, public resource with free WiFi, public computers, so much seating, and absolutely no purchase required. In the same respect to Barnes & Noble, there tends to be less of a crowd than a coffee shop. Honestly the services they offer are great for students who need those resources or a space that is quiet. The main reason this choice is favorable is overall convenience.  Important note: E.P. Foster is currently undergoing a renovation, so hours and access may be limited.

So, what makes the perfect study spot?

After hearing from my peers, I noticed that these factors for the ‘perfect study spot’ were at the top every time:

  • Good WiFi and plenty of outlets. That’s just essential.
  • Enough seating and less of a crowd. Somewhere to be for hours at a time.
  • Low cost or no purchase required— because this is for community college students.

I hope this helps you reflect on your perfect study spot, and maybe even discover new local cafes. Happy finals season everybody.

Categories
community Food & Beverage Food & Dining Local Business Spotlight Student Life at VC

Top 3 Places to Eat or have a snack at VC before or after class

at number 3 I have the Multidisciplinary Center West building located at the north part of campus by N campus way. This spot is a solid choice for students who want something quick and convenient without having to leave campus. It’s especially useful if you’re in a rush between classes or don’t have time to go off campus. Since it’s located in a more so call chill area, it can also be a good place to sit down, relax, and eat without too much noise or distraction. Overall, it’s not the most exciting option, but it definitely gets the job done when you need something fast and easy.

At the number 2 I have Starbucks by TELEGRAPH and DAY RD which is a 8 minute walk and a 1 minute drive from the Ventura college and makes it very easy to get to and easy to grab. This location is perfect for students who want something familiar and reliable. Whether it’s coffee to wake you up in the morning or a small snack to hold you over, Starbucks has a variety of options that fit different needs. It’s also a good spot to meet up with friends or get some quick studying done. Even though it can get busy at times, the convenience and consistency make it one of the top choices near campus.

At number 1 I have L&T catering which is a catering truck that sells on campus and they have a lot of food options for a very solid price. This is easily one of the best places to grab food at VC because it offers both quality and value. Students can choose from a wide range of meals, making it a great option no matter what you’re in the mood for. Since it’s right on campus, you don’t have to worry about traveling far or wasting time. The combination of good portions, fair prices, and convenience makes it stand out as the number one pick.

Honorable mention: Food trucks that come to sell their products for students to grab and they are very noticeable and the lines that form will tell you that they are selling some good products. These food trucks add variety and excitement to the usual food options on campus. Since they rotate and bring different types of food, students get the chance to try something new almost every time. The long lines are usually a good sign that the food is worth the wait. Even though they aren’t always there, they’re definitely something to look out for when they show up. There’s always an option which are near by fast food places if you have the time and the willingness to grab something from a local or big named fast food place.

Categories
Food & Beverage Local Business Spotlight

Tony’s Pizzaria: One of Ventura’s Longest Standing Small Businesses

Tony’s Pizzaria, a Ventura Staple Since 1959

If you’ve lived in Ventura for any amount of time, you’ve probably been to Tony’s Pizzaria or at least heard of it. Located on Thompson Blvd just down the street from the beach, Tony’s is more than just a pizza place it’s a part of Ventura’s history and has been serving the community for over 60 years.

Tony’s first opened in 1959 and was founded by Johnny ‘Tony’ Barrios. What started as a small family business quickly became a local favorite, and what makes it even more special is that it’s still in the same location today. In a world where restaurants come and go, that says a lot about how strong this business really is.

One of the reasons Tony’s has lasted so long is because it has stayed family-owned. The recipes, traditions, and values have been passed down through generations, keeping everything authentic. The current owner, Bruce Barrios, is actually my spouse’s old friend. They knew each other from back in the day when they both used to DJ at Skating Plus, which makes this place feel even more personal to us.

We actually went there a couple weeks ago to celebrate a birthday, and we even got to visit with Tony himself. That experience really shows how connected this business still is to its roots and the community.

The food is another big reason people keep coming back. Tony’s is known for its New York-style, hand-tossed pizza with fresh dough made daily. The menu also includes wings, salads, and other simple favorites. It’s not trying to be fancy it just focuses on good, consistent food. The bonus part is, Tony’s serves their pizza in paper bags to keep it warm while letting steam escape, which helps prevent the crust from getting soggy and keeps it crispy. Yum, my type of pizza!

The atmosphere is what really makes it stand out. Being so close to the beach gives it that relaxed Ventura vibe. There are palm trees, outdoor seating, fun decorations, and even games you can play. They also have live music sometimes, which makes it feel more like a place to hang out than just eat.

You’ll see locals, families, students, and tourists all in one place. It really brings people together.

Tony’s has also helped the community in a lot of ways over the years. It’s provided jobs, supported local events, and stayed a reliable place people can count on. In a time where big chain restaurants are everywhere, Tony’s shows how important small, family owned businesses are to a city.

At the end of the day, Tony’s Pizzaria isn’t just about pizza, it’s about family, history, and community. The fact that it’s been around for over 60 years shows how much people love and support it, and why it continues to be such an important part of Ventura.

“If you’re ever in Ventura, it’s definitely a spot worth checking out.”



https://www.tonyspizzaria.net/