Ojai Soul
The artsy enclave brims with character and community spirit
Hotel El Roblar is the newest iteration of Ojai’s oldest hotel.
Written by Hana-Lee Sedgwick
Photographs by Sara Prince, Lou Mora, Evan Robinson
Tucked at the base of the Topatopa Mountains, just 15 miles north of Ventura, lies Ojai, home to myriad bohemian artists, wellness seekers, locavore foodies, and creative free spirits. Although it’s one of Ventura County’s smallest cities, Ojai brims with character, charm, and its own distinct culture. Whether dining on seasonal fare, browsing independently owned boutiques, hiking scenic trails, or unwinding with a libation, visitors will find a place where life moves more slowly, creativity runs deep, and the vibe is equal parts rustic and refined.
After an extensive renovation to revive Ojai’s longest-standing hotel, HOTEL EL ROBLAR is reemerging as a contemporary lodging destination. Built in 1919, the property has been thoughtfully revamped by Eric Goode, Ramin Shamshiri, Jeremy McBride, and Warner Ebbink—blending timeless appeal with modern comforts. The result is a space that feels nostalgic yet current, with 31 beautifully appointed guest rooms, 11 bungalows with private courtyards, and eight rooms designed with a more minimalist touch. A stylish lobby bar, modern Mexican restaurant, serene pool, European-style breakfast, and complimentary bicycles round out the guest experience. 122 E. Ojai Ave., theroblar.com
Building on the success of their beloved Ojai restaurant, Rory’s Place, sisters Rory and Meave McAuliffe opened RORY’S OTHER PLACE last year. Located next door to their dinner spot, the quaint café and market has become a daytime hub for locals, blending the charm of an Italian coffee shop with the allure of a Parisian wine bar. Culinary delights include homemade pastries, quiche, sandwiches, and a Niçoise salad, plus a standout buffalo-milk soft serve ice cream, which is available in a cone, as a sundae, or as an affogato. A small but thoughtful selection of grocery goods—including salad dressings, granola, wine, and olive oils—complete the offerings. 133 E. Ojai Ave., rorysplaceojai.com
Founded by Shiny Chan, INYUN COLLECTIVE showcases a thoughtfully curated mix of timeless apparel, vintage furniture, art, handmade ceramics, and design-forward pieces—each chosen for its “function, beauty, and soul,” Chan says. She collaborated with designer Blair Moritz to imbue the space with a calm and welcoming aesthetic that’s rooted in simplicity and intentional living. It’s “like stepping into a quiet, lived-in moment,” Chan says. “There’s a clarity to Ojai that encourages presence and connection, both of which we try to reflect through the objects we carry.” 105 S. Montgomery St., Unit A, inyuncollective.com
Since opening its doors in 2019, OJAI RÔTIE has become a staple for locals and visitors alike, known for its French-Lebanese-inspired picnic fare, rotisserie chicken, and freshly baked sourdough bread. The fast-casual spot has a relaxed, unfussy vibe that perfectly complements what owner Lorenzo Nicola describes as “upscale affordable” cuisine, which highlights “local ingredients and family recipes.” Enhancing the food is a beverage menu of nonalcoholic drinks, local craft beers, and wines predominantly sourced within 100 miles. 469 E. Ojai Ave., ojairotie.com
Shelter Social Club knows a thing or two about reimagining roadside lodging, as is evident in their popular Ojai Rancho Inn and Alamo Motel. Their latest project, the 31-room HUMMINGBIRD INN, has been thoughtfully refreshed, bringing a modern sensibility to its Spanish cottage-style charm. “The inn didn’t have a clear identity before,” says Shelter Social Club cofounder Kenny Osehan. “Now it feels like it’s always been this way—thanks to local artisans like Ren Ceramics, Rebekah Miles, and the Epoch Collective, who helped bring the vision to life.” Located on a quiet edge of town, this effortlessly cool escape features a swimming pool, a communal firepit, and cozy bungalow rooms—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. 1208 E. Ojai Ave., hummingbirdinnojai.com
Before opening its brick-and-mortar space in 2024, OJAI ROOTS had already established a local presence, offering produce from its regenerative farm to restaurants and residents. Today the shop is stocked with seasonal vegetables, olive oil, and wine—all from the farm—along with kitchen provisions and housewares. At night the place transitions into an inviting wine bar, featuring a rotating selection of vintages that can be enjoyed indoors or outside in the garden, a tranquil setting that invites conversation and leisurely sips. “There’s been so much change in Ojai in recent years,” says chef and partner Peter Marcus. “As Ojai natives, we felt it was important to our small team to create a space that feels welcoming and accessible—somewhere people can stop by day or night, pick up fresh produce, enjoy good wine and snacks, or celebrate something special.” 315 N. Montgomery St., ojairoots.com
For years, the OJAI VALLEY INN has been a fixture in the community, drawing people from near and far to enjoy its pristine grounds, 31,000-square-foot spa, leisure-focused amenities, and Spanish Colonial–inspired design. A variety of room types ensures a comfortable stay, while curated experiences encourage guests to savor the best of Ojai. Summertime brings a vibrant lineup of activities—think guided hikes, s’mores by the fire, chef-led dinners, aerial yoga, Jeep tours, and Linus bike and picnic outings—each designed to spark relaxation, inspiration, or adventure. Beyond the programming, “there are so many secret spots throughout the property for guests to discover, unwind, explore, and connect with nature,” says Brynne Dorsey, marketing specialist for the Ojai Valley Inn, who adds that catching Ojai’s “pink moment” at sunset is a seasonal must. 905 Country Club Rd., ojaivalleyinn.com
Kat Turner, a recent Top Chef contestant, brings her culinary chops to Ojai with HIGHLY LIKELY, which opened this spring. With two successful L.A. outposts in their portfolio, partners Chelsea Matthews, Alex Matthews, and Cary Mosier have created a space that celebrates Turner’s approachable, globally inspired comfort food, always with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Housed in the former Beacon Coffee space, this sleek all-day eatery serves a wide selection of breakfast and lunch items, from chilaquiles to falafel bowls, alongside teas and bold coffee drinks. In the evening, wine, cocktails, and heartier dishes take center stage. 211 W. Ojai Ave., itshighlylikely.com
Despite recent growth, Ojai—with its slow pace, locavore values, creative energy, and peaceful setting—maintains the kind of charm that feels familiar yet deeply rooted in community. “Ojai is small but mighty, attracting a level of creativity that’s both impactful and essential to its authenticity,” says Kenny Osehan. Adds Shiny Chan, “My husband, daughters, and I moved here seven years ago. But even before that, Ojai felt like home. We’re constantly inspired by the people who make up this community—artists, growers, healers, and thinkers—and the way their work is rooted in care and intention.”
