Lompoc
City or Arts & Flowers & Boutique Wines!
The Lompoc Sign greets visitors to this charming "City of Arts & Flowers"
Brilliant flower fields and a giant gallery of mural art bring visitors to Lompoc from all over the world. The flower fields produce seeds that are sold nationwide, and more than 60 murals decorate public spaces throughout town. Two recent murals can be seen on the opposite page. These were both “Mural-In-A-Day” projects.
Lompoc is only about 16 miles west of Buellton, and there are some great stops along the way as we head for a visit to the “City of Murals in the Valley of Flowers.” Lompoc’s collection of 60+ murals draws visitors from all over the world. Most are found in the Downtown area, around Ocean and “H” Street.
To get to Lompoc, head west from Buellton on Highway 246. In just about nine minutes, you’ll need to keep a sharp eye out for Campbell Road on your right, because you don’t want to miss the lovely orchids at Chaotic Exotics.
Chaotic Exotics
www.chaoticexotics.biz
Since 1990, Chaotic Exotics has been the orchid grower of the Santa Rita Hills. Their nine and a half acre Rancho Chaotica is located in the heart of the “Santa Rita Hills,” surrounded by astonishing views of both Babcock and Melville wineries. They’re open to the public on weekends, but just give them a call and they’ll set you up for a mid-week tour.
In 1996, Chaotic Exotics began their now yearly tradition of featuring an orchid display at the Alpha Club’s Annual Flower Show the weekend of the Flower Festival. “Our first year, I don’t think the ladies of the Alpha Club were quite ready for us,” says James Kotsybar, co-owner of Chaotic Exotics. “The theme was ‘Hometown Heroes,’ and in dedication to Lompoc’s Search and Rescue Team we recreated a rainforest landscape in a corner of the Veteran’s Hall. As we backed up the twenty-five foot truck of trees and orchids, the ladies politely asked if we intended to use all of this plant material we’d brought. I think they were a little worried when we answered yes, but ultimately, they were delighted by the results.”
Since then Chaotic Exotics has grown as a business and has become a strong part of the community, founding Lompoc’s Coastal Valley Orchid Society and launching the successful effort to get regular monthly American Orchid Society Judging in Santa Barbara.
The orchids of Chaotic Exotics have graced or are currently displayed in wine tasting rooms from Lompoc to Santa Ynez, and many hotels proudly feature Chaotic Exotics’ orchid displays.
After delighting in the wonders of Chaotic Exotics, head back to Highway 246 and turn right. As you approach Lompoc, you can take Purisima Road north for a shortcut to Vandenberg Village and Restaurant 4300.
Restaurant 4300
Continuing west from Chotic Exotics on Highway 246, exit at La Purisima Road. Go past La Purisima Mission to Harris Grade. Turn right, proceed to Burton Mesa, and turn left. Continue on Burton Mesa and turn right on Clubhouse Road. Follow Clubhouse Road to The Village Country Club and Restaurant 4300, where Sonseeah Gill and her staff invite you to experience their great food, warm hospitality and beautiful views.
Restaurant 4300 has a full bar, a large selection of local wines, and micro-brews on tap. The menu emphasizes locally grown ingredients. Lunch is served in the main dining room Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering homemade soups and a variety of sandwiches and salads. For a quick bite, the Snack Bar is open Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Their special Sunday Supper offers a prix-fixe menu that changes weekly and is served from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. They are open for dinner on Thursday, Friday and Saturdays from 5 to 9 p.m. Enjoy an appetizer of Pan Seared Heart of Romaine with Gorgonzola Beurre Blanc and Balsamic Reduction, Bruschetta, or a gourmet Meat and Cheese Platter.
From their dinner menu choose Roasted Pork Medallions, a mouth watering Grilled Filet Mignon, or a Panko Encrusted Salmon Filet. Gourmet pastas are also available, such as Greek Chicken, Spaghetti Marinara, or Chicken and Mushroom. Complete your meal with one of the delicious homemade desserts.
For reservations call 805-733-4300. Private rooms that can accommodate parties as large as 60 ($350) to 120 ($3000) for weddings and other events are also available. Contact the restaurant to inquire about room rental and availability and to reserve a room. Gourmet box lunches can be ordered in advance for groups, a perfect way to enjoy your lunch while visiting the local wineries.
