Check Sondra Barker’s vibrant Instagram feeds (@sondrabarker; @cuisineandtravel), and it’s evident that the O.C. blogger has mastered the art of pairing airfare with actual fare. Since 2014, her blog, Cuisine & Travel (cuisineandtravel.com), has been a leading source for locals in search of the finest places to dine at and jet off to. “I love exploring new destinations through cuisine, which inspired my website,” says the Newport Beach resident, who also doubles as a culinary photographer. “The Orange County dining scene is thriving with innovation and exceptionally talented chefs.” Here, Barker serves up a few of her favorite things.
BAG LADY “I have an addiction to designer handbags and love brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Saint Laurent.” Capucines BB handbag, $5,300, South Coast Plaza
DINNER TIME “For dinner, I love the creative dishes at Olea in Newport Beach, and I always enjoy a fabulous prime rib at Five Crowns in Corona del Mar.” lawrysonline.com/five-crowns
FACE IT “I enjoy making my own skincare products so there are no unnecessary additives, but one product I do love is Dr. Dennis Gross’ Alpha Beta extra-strength daily peel.” $88, Sephora, South Coast Plaza
NIGHT OUT “We can’t forget happy hour! The tapas menu at EATS Kitchen & Bar on Fridays at Hotel Irvine is fantastic.” hotelirvine.com/eats-kitchen-bar
MUSCLE UP “Before moving to Orange County, I was a Pilates instructor. I now have a Reformer in my home gym, which I like to use several times a week.”
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Photography by: portrait, pilates, five crowns and eats kitchen & bar photos by sondra barker; puesto, louis vuitton, dr. dennis gross photos courtesy of brands