We grew up here. As kids, as friends, as part of the local community. Our business has grown up here, too — from reviving a local landmark cafe in Ukiah five years ago to building up partnerships with bakeries and restaurants across the county. But it’s not just our roots that make us love Mendocino County — it’s all the places that make this sleepy part of Northern California at once a premier destination and a hidden gem. From favorite camping spots like Hendy Woods, to exploring the amazing colors on Glass Beach, to trek-worthy treats in Ukiah.
But when you’re living your day-to-day life among world-class amenities in such a beautiful setting, it can be easy to take it all for granted. You can be cycling up Masonite Road and still forget to stop and celebrate all the great things Mendocino County has to offer.
That’s why we’re spending the next couple of months celebrating the County we call home, and sharing some of our favorite places with you. Each week, we’ll tell a story about people, places, things we love. Think of it as part travel guide, part biography — and one big love letter to Mendocino County — from all of us at Black Oak.
Of course, there are too many great places to cover them all. We’ll leave that to Sunset Magazine or something. But we hope you’ll enjoy reading the stories, and we hope you’ll pay a visit to each one of the places we feature.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned.
Keith and Jon
Owners of Black Oak
Check out more of our Mendo-land favorites
Deep in the Heart of Boonville
In the heart of Anderson Valley, the town of Boonville offers inescapable charms for those that are escaping the rush of city life. Perfectly summed up at the Boonville Hotel, visitors can soak up the peace and relat... read more
Wild Mendocino
While Anderson Valley is renowned for wine, one of our favorite things to do to get away from the bustle of life — without totally cutting off from the rest of the world — is grab a campsite at Hendy Woods State Park. Cut north west... read more
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