Paradise Pantry: Ventura’s Ultimate Farm-to-Fork Experience
Ventura’s ultimate farm-to-fork experience is at Paradise Pantry – a place where guests can explore regional, seasonal flavors before stocking up on local wines and cheeses to enjoy at home.
Sandwiched between Santa Barbara and Santa Monica, is Ventura County, with its fertile farms and ranches.Ventura County is a bit of an anomaly – with the Los Padres National Forest encompassing the entire northern half of the county, large expanses of active farmland inland, and of course, the surf culture and sandy beaches synonymous with Southern California. But this beach town is less crowded and refreshingly laid-back with a welcoming, friendly feel. Those same adjectives could be used to describe Paradise Pantry, one of downtown Ventura’s most cherished farm-to-table destinations.
Local, seasonal food + wine
For almost 20 years, Paradise Pantry has treated locals and sun seekers to an authentic, locally grown taste of Ventura County. Co-owners Tina Thayer and Kelly Briglio transformed their passion for local food and wine into a thriving restaurant, wine shop and cheese counter in historic downtown Ventura.
Paradise Pantry is a true farm-to-fork dining experience. Kelly and Tina partner with an ever-expanding roster of local farmers and producers – including local favorites like Bear Valley Mushrooms, Coleman Family Farms and Central Coast Creamery. The menu at Paradise Pantry changes seasonally, with weekly specials showcasing the region’s freshest ingredients. Chef Kelly describes her menu as “elevated soul food” – think upscale comfort food with thoughtfully sourced ingredients and seasonal produce.
The wine program subscribes to a similar philosophy. Paradise Pantry’s wine shop carries roughly 400 wines at any given time, with a strong emphasis on California producers. While bottles from around the world are represented, local and regional wines remain the heart of the collection.
Rooted in Ventura County
Chef and co-owner Kelly Briglio grew up in a close-knit Italian family – where homemade meals and cooking from scratch weren’t just the norm, they were an expression of love. Kelly entered the restaurant industry at the ripe old age of 14 and never looked back. A self-taught chef, Kelly jokes that she studied at “the school of burn and learn” – but her hands-on experience proved invaluable. By the time she turned 24, Kelly was at the helm of her own restaurant in Costa Rica.
In 2003, Kelly returned to Ventura, where she met Tina Thayer. Tina’s love of history, travel and storytelling now shapes her role as Paradise Pantry’s wine director and co-owner. Ever curious, she gravitates towards small producers and unique, expressive wines with a sense of place. Before long, Tina and Kelly bonded over their shared love of wine, cheese and locally grown goodness. Four years later, they took a leap of faith and opened Paradise Pantry.
Meet the farmers + producers behind the menu
Some of the farmers + producers Paradise Pantry Partners with include:
Point Reyes Creamery
Belik Farm
What to eat at Paradise Pantry
Part of Paradise Pantry’s welcoming appeal is its abundance of small plates that offer a snapshot of what’s fresh and in season throughout Ventura County and the Central Coast.
The same can be said of the family-style appetizers. Because the menu changes so frequently to take advantage of what is fresh and in season, no two visits are exactly alike – but that’s part of the appeal.
Guests with dietary restrictions are encouraged to share their specific needs with the Paradise Pantry team. While some dishes are clearly listed as vegan or gluten-free on the menu, the knowledgeable staff is happy to help guide diners and suggest modifications when possible. Vegan guests, in particular, are in for a treat – Chef Kelly was named the winner of Ventura County’s Vegan Chef Challenge for the third year running!
Pantry Cheese Plate
If there’s one mandatory menu item at Paradise Pantry, it’s pairing a local wine with the Pantry Cheese Plate. This breathtakingly beautiful appetizer features four artisan cheeses, with a complementary assortment of California seasonal and dried fruits, nuts and marinated olives. Ask your server to suggest a local wine that will pair best with your plate.
Seasonal Market Salad
Because Paradise Pantry’s menu is so heavily dependent on local producers, their seasonal salads are a delicious reflection of the region’s bounty. The Seasonal Market Salad always includes the freshest fruits, vegetables and nuts drizzled with a delectable homemade dressing.
Chef Kelly’s Specials
Don’t skip the specials – these amazing menu items are designed to show off the latest and greatest deliveries from local farmers.
California Wines
With hundreds of wines to choose from, making a decision can be daunting. Start with these lovely, local options:
Pars Fortuna Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County
PSA: You can (and should) pair cheese with red wine. This small batch, fruit-forward Pinot works equally well with creamy cheese and earthy mushrooms.
Amevive Cariño, Los Olivos District AVA
Looking for a truly unique wine? Amevive Cariño is a blend of Tempranillo and Graciano, with high acidity and herbal undertones that make it a perfect match for aged cheeses and roasted meats.
Tablas Creek Grenache Blanc
Chardonnay who? Grenache Blanc is Chardonnay’s cooler cousin. They’re both full-bodied whites, but where Chardonnay often leans towards a tropical fruit finish, Grenache Blanc offers a more acidic option that hints at green fruit and citrus. This beauty pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables and cuts through buttery cheese like a dream.
Inside the Artisan Market, Wine Shop + Cheese Counter
No visit to Paradise Pantry would be complete without a stop at the Artisan Market, Wine Shop + Cheese Counter. Choose a favorite or featured California wine from Tina’s carefully curated assortment of 400 wines from all around the world. Then make your way to the cheese counter. The cheese counter is equally impressive, with an ever-changing assortment of 200+ cheeses to choose from. Whether you’re searching for the perfect snacking cheese, something to elevate a recipe, or a pairing for your favorite California wine, Paradise Pantry’s cheese mongers can point you in the right direction.
The cheese counter also offers a fun opportunity to discover new varieties and producers. Locals rave about Paradise Pantry’s monthly cheese club, which introduces members to new dairies and artisan cheeses throughout the year.
After selecting the perfect wines and cheeses, guests can stock up on charcuterie essentials like local olives, jams, sauces and cured meats. The artisan market also features beautiful serving pieces crafted by local makers, including cheeseboards, cheese knives and handmade bowls — everything needed to create an unforgettable spread at home.
Visit Paradise Pantry
222 East Main Street, Ventura, California 93001
(805) 641-9440
RESTAURANT HOURS
Wednesday – Friday: 11:30 am – 8:00 pm (limited menu from 3:00 – 4:30) | Saturday: 11:30 am – 8:00 pm | Sunday: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm | CLOSED MONDAY + TUESDAY
MARKET HOURS
Tuesday: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm | Wednesday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm | Friday: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm | Saturday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm | Sunday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm | CLOSED MONDAY
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Article by Hilary Rance. Photography by James Collier. Cheese image courtesy of Paradise Pantry.