After returning from a rather long road trip; the Missus still wanted to head somewhere for a few nights with JJ. After going thru the usual suspects, I thought we’d head out to an place we hadn’t been before; downtown Ventura. Yes, we’ve been to Ventura Harbor, which we thought was fine and we’ve stayed in Oxnard when we visited the Channel Islands. But we’ve never really stayed in downtown Ventura….in fact, I’d really never had recommendations for the area even when we lived in LA. Until, when one of the young ladies who used to work at Bay Park Coffee told me she went to school in the area and said, you and the Missus might enjoy downtown Ventura. She said it’s very relaxed and chill, and most of all, knowing the Missus said there are like 8 consignment-thrift stores along Main Street. So, we decided to head on over and spend two evenings in the area. We stayed at the Best Western Ventura Pier….since…well, we were tourists, right?
We were basically across the street from a lovely park; Plaza Park.
And, as we strolled thru the park, we came across this huge tree.
It’s a huge Moreton Bay Fig tree that was planted in the 1870’s! You can read more about it here!
Main Street is basically a block away. And most of it is pedestrian only.
There are a number of restaurant, bars, and yes many shops along the corridor.
The Missus would spend a good amount of time there the following day and I’d even purchase something for myself!
And near the end of the street is Mission San Buenaventura, which is one of the 21 missions on the El Camino Real.
Sierra also recommended Rumfish y Vino, telling us it’s quite popular with the locals. She told us to go during Happy Hour, which extends to the patio area and can be quite busy. Well no kidding; this was before five on a Friday.
Luckily, HH extends until 6pm during the week. The prices seemed super reasonable compared to SD as well.
I went with a Smokey Tamarindo, which I enjoyed.
Sierra had told me to order the Mussels during Happy Hour which was just $10. The Missus wasn’t too sure about it; but it turned out to be Her favorite dish of the evening.
Nice mild garlic tones, very savory broth, some acidity, I’m thinking from the beer, with the mussels being very plump, tender, and sweet. It took us back to the meals we had enjoyed in the Cinque Terre.
On the other hand, we didn’t care for the House Ceviche, it was too watery, the fish too chewy, not enough acidity. Though it was hard to complain at the $8 price.
Tacos were six bucks a piece for Happy Hour; which seemed a bit pricey, but both choices were pretty good.
The Cochinita Pibil was slightly tangy-smokey, with a mild sweetness.
Loved the pickled onions and the tortilla, though a bit stiff, had some good maize tones. Our lovely Server told us they make their own tortillas.
Though the pork ran a bit on the sweet side, it had a nice toothsome texture.
The aioli really did well on this somewhat hipster taco, adding richness and a mild acidity.
This was a fun dinner and the overall price seemed quite reasonable. And those mussels……..
Rumfish y Vino
34 N Palm St.
Ventura, CA 93001
After dinner we headed back to the Best Western, then took JJ for a walk. We enjoyed the location of the hotel, it was close to Main Street, and also just a block away from the bridge over the busy 101 to the beach. We crossed over the freeway and then took a short stroll on the Ventura Pier.
Which had an interesting mix of tourists and locals who were mostly fishing.
We would take a walk down the following afternoon.
Back at the room, we relaxed a bit; JJ had his “dinny”, then Momma needed some time. I had a place in mind I’d seen earlier on our way to Main Street.
I loved the name of the place; Leashless Brewing! So, you know I had to take JJ there. Man, it was bustling, yet when the nice young lady running the bar saw JJ she smiled and said “come on in” and even pointed us to some open seats.
Looking at the selection, I quickly noticed that Leashless is a certified organic brewery. I also noticed how much fun folks were having.
Especially that gentleman with the Aloha looking shirt and hat….he was just having a blast, dancing by himself! I have a video of him boogieing out…you know
“So let’s sink another drink
‘Cause it’ll give me time to think
If I had the chance
I’d ask the world to dance
And I’ll be dancing with myself“
Dancing with Myself by Billy Idol. Yes, I’m that old……
Everyone, even the pooches were having a good time!
I got a “250”, a Belgian Dark Ale. Good boozy – fruity tones, but what at kick at 10.3 ABV!
The nice gal manning the bar told me the food truck was quite good, but I told her I’d already had dinner.
JJ and I enjoyed our nightcap…..in fact we’d return the following evening!
Leashless Brewing
585 E Thompson Blvd.
Ventura, CA 93001
We had never really given thought to staying near downtown Ventura. I’m glad Sierra recommended it for a visit!
Ten bucks for mussels is a bargain!
We thought so too Franklin!
that tree was huge! nice mini road trip
We enjoyed it Kat!
My parents love that area
We enjoyed it ST!