Temecula offers wineries with picturesque views, farm-to-table restaurants, and relaxing boutique resorts.
Fact checked by Elizabeth MacLennan
Temecula Overview
During the harvest season, vineyards are bursting with excitement and anticipation for this year’s crop of perfectly ripened grapes. In Southern California’s Temecula Valley, select wineries celebrate the fall harvest with the time-honored grape stomping tradition, adding a competitive twist.
Not one to shy away from some lighthearted competition, I participated in this tradition at South Coast Winery. My partner collected the juice as I crushed the slippery grapes, and to our surprise, we were declared the winners! I am convinced that my Italian roots contributed to our resounding success. What better way to celebrate than with our prize, a bottle of South Coast Winery’s special 20th Anniversary red wine blend?
Temecula Valley, a Southern California wine destination nestled between Los Angeles and San Diego, is home to miles of vineyards, a charming old town with lively eateries, shops, bars, and relaxing resorts with stunning views. Here are some must-see stops for your next trip to Temecula.
Where to Eat
Small Barn
For a cozy yet elegant dining experience, stop by Small Barn, a new addition to Old Town Temecula with a welcoming wraparound porch and outdoor fireplace. This modern bistro showcases a rustic menu crafted with locally sourced foods. The menu is designed for sharing, making it a great spot for larger parties. Be sure to try their signature cocktails paired with the organic roast beet salad and the pan-roasted chicken with pistachio basil pesto.
Cork Fire Kitchen
Mastering the art of farm-to-table, Cork Fire Kitchen highlights the charm of Temecula Valley with an inventive menu featuring seasonal produce paired with locally sourced meats. The expansive dining area views from Temecula Creek Inn’s on-site restaurant add to its sophisticated yet inviting ambiance. Chef Matthew Steffen incorporates foods and herbs grown in his garden, located on the neighboring golf course green. Dine here for brunch to try the churro waffle or the crab grilled cheese with havarti and bacon. For dinner, don’t miss the crispy-skinned mallard duck with grilled leeks, toasted pistachio polenta, and caramelized fennel pesto.
EAT Marketplace
EAT, which stands for Extraordinary Artisan Table, is known for using locally grown foods in its dishes, catering to all types of eaters. Indulge in gluten-free, vegan donuts with creative seasonal flavors like orange cardamom and rocky road. For lunch, opt for a classic roasted turkey sandwich on ciabatta or build your own bowl.
The Goat & Vine
A stone hearth kitchen with a relaxed atmosphere, The Goat & Vine specializes in pizzas and sandwiches made from scratch. Some must-try dishes include their pizza with housemade fennel sausage, roasted mushrooms, and house marinara, alongside the hatch chile honey chicken sandwich. Save room for the decadent cappuccino ice cream cake topped with homemade Bailey’s whipped cream for dessert.
Soro’s Mediterranean Grill
Located in Old Town Temecula, Soro’s Mediterranean Grill is a family-run restaurant offering fresh, authentic cuisine, featuring some of the best bottles from local Temecula wineries. Try the cauliflower wings with harissa for a kick, served on couscous, and the chicken kabob plate with garlic sauce and grilled vegetables for a satisfying Mediterranean meal.
Things to Do
A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure
For an awe-inspiring experience, schedule a hot air balloon flight above the vineyards with A Grape Escape. Drift over Temecula Wine Country at sunrise, soaking in the aerial views of vineyards and rows of vines. The flight lasts about 60 to 75 minutes and concludes with a sparkling wine toast.
So-Cal Sidecars
Experience a unique ride among the vines on a sidecar tour throughout wine country. Travel in style with So-Cal Sidecars, enjoying sightseeing and wine tastings at three local wineries. The vintage sidecars accommodate two people, making it perfect for a date night or family outing.
Doffo Winery
Founded in 1997, Doffo Winery is a family-owned winery renowned for its award-winning zinfandel and Malbec wines, along with unique red wine blends. Enjoy a tasting of small batch wines while admiring founder Marcello Doffo’s MotoDoffo vintage motorcycle collection, featuring over 100 motorcycles and scooters from around the globe.
Old Town Temecula
In addition to tasty eateries, Old Town Temecula boasts various bars and unique shops. Stop for a beer tasting flight at Stone Church Brewing, or take a short drive to Refuge Brewery for Belgian-style ales. For a modern-day speakeasy, reserve a spot at Apparition Room, where you can choose from an exciting cocktail menu or ask the bartender for an off-menu drink. Be sure to visit Old Town Spice & Tea Merchants for unique loose leaf teas and spice blends, and explore Temecula Lavender Co. for specialty handcrafted lavender products.
Where to Stay
Carter Estate Winery and Resort
For a serene getaway in a secluded bungalow, consider Carter Estate Winery and Resort. This winery is celebrated for its effervescent méthode champenoise wines, and its resort landscape and accommodations are unrivaled in the area. Enjoy surrounding vineyard views from your private patio while sipping your morning coffee or watching the sunset after a day of wine tasting.
Temecula Creek Inn
Tucked away from the heart of wine country under sprawling oak trees, Temecula Creek Inn offers deep relaxation and a renewed sense of wonder. Its rooms and suites feature private balconies with stunning views of the mountains and the adjacent 27-hole golf course, providing a picture-perfect setting. With on-site dining options and the choice to order to your room, this luxury inn is sure to be a highlight of your time in Temecula.
