SIPS   .   .   .

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort Partners With De Soi To Introduce Elevated Zero-Proof Cocktail Program

Resort launches zero-proof cocktail program with Katy Perry–founded non-alcoholic apéritif brand, De Soi

De Soi Cocktails on the Menu at Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort 

 Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, a beloved coastal retreat set on 24 oceanfront acres, has partnered with premium non-alcoholic beverage brand, De Soi, to launch a signature zero-proof cocktail program at the property’s signature restaurant, The Set. The partnership reflects Hilton Santa Barbara’s commitment to wellness-driven hospitality, inclusive beverage options, and continued innovation within its food and beverage programming; offering guests elevated, flavorful alternatives to traditional cocktails.

The Set has debuted a dedicated non-alcoholic cocktail menu spotlighting De Soi’s premium blends, each priced at $12. The menu includes the Haute Margarita, featuring tangy citrus, smooth agave, and fiery jalapeño; Très Rosé, a vibrant combination of tart raspberry and soft, earthy rooibos; Spritz Italiano, layered with sweet and bitter citrus, crisp white grape, and bold gentian root; and Golden Hour, a warm and aromatic blend of citrus, yuzu, and leafy herbs. 

“We’re always looking for thoughtful ways to evolve the guest experience, and our partnership with De Soi allows us to do that,” said Dane Gorup, general manager, Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort. “As interest in wellness-forward and inclusive beverage options continues to grow, De Soi offers a thoughtfully crafted alternative that delivers the same sense of ritual and sophistication as a traditional cocktail. It’s a natural extension of our approach to modern hospitality and intentional food and beverage programming.”

Co-founded by singer-songwriter, Katy Perry, and award-winning master distiller, Morgan McLachlan, De Soi has quickly emerged as a leader in the non-alcoholic space for its complex, cocktail-like flavors and functional botanical ingredients. Each blend is made using premium botanicals and natural adaptogens, offering a sophisticated option for guests who are sober, sober-curious, or simply choosing to drink less. Each De Soi flavor is crafted with natural adaptogens, including lion’s mane, L-theanine, and reishi mushroom, delivering functional benefits designed to promote calm and balance while maintaining the ritual and sophistication of a cocktail experience.

“We created De Soi for a world where not drinking alcohol is just as normal and celebratory as drinking,” said Scout Brisson, CEO, De Soi. “Non-alcoholic options have become everyday staples for so many people, and partnering with Hilton Santa Barbara allows us to show what elevated zero-proof hospitality can really look like. We’re excited to meet guests where they are and offer sophisticated, complex cocktails that feel indulgent, transportive, and worthy of the setting, just without the alcohol.”

Over the past year, one in four global travelers have reduced their alcohol consumption according to Hilton’s 2025 Trends Report, reflecting a broader shift toward mindful moderation. In response, Hilton Santa Barbara is adapting its food and beverage offerings to better meet evolving guest preferences while reinforcing its positioning as a forward-thinking beachfront resort. Looking ahead, De Soi will continue to be integrated into the resort’s broader food and beverage offerings, including catering and wedding menus, guest amenities, and future wellness-focused programming, supporting the resort’s ongoing commitment to inclusive, wellness-driven hospitality. For information about De Soi, please visit the website. For information and reservations, visit Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort.

About Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort is a coastal haven that blends laid-back California charm with elevated resort experiences. Set on 24 oceanfront acres just steps from East Beach and the Funk Zone, the newly renovated mission-style resort features 335 well-appointed rooms and 25 suites, most with private balconies or patios, as well as a variety of upscale amenities including a heated outdoor pool, pickleball courts, and a full-service spa. Guests can enjoy fresh coastal cuisine at on-site dining destinations such as The Roundhouse, The Set, Tereza Del Mar and Java, or sip locally sourced wines at The Wine Tasting Room. With over 60,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, including the iconic oceanfront Plaza Del Sol, the resort is an ideal destination for weddings, meetings, and special celebrations. As a pet-friendly property, Hilton Santa Barbara is a destination for relaxed luxury, memorable celebrations, and meaningful stays in one of the West Coast’s favorite beach destinations.

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SANTA BARBARA TOBA JAPAN SISTER CITIES ORGANIZATION BRINGS IN 2026 WITH UNIQUE SHIN NEN KAI DINNER & KANPAI SAKE TOAST

By Bonnie Carroll

Toba Japan Sister Cities 2026 Japanese New Year Celebration at Unitarian Church far exceeded everyone's expectations. It was so delightful to see so many members wearing colorful Kimonas, greeting guests, sharing in New Year Toasts, leading lines of dancers in an authentic Japanese dance and singing memorable songs at this annual membership dinner  that was also attended by many Sister Cities members of fellow City of Santa Barbara Sister Cities including Weihai China, Puerto Vallarta Mexico, and Miraflores Peru.

  Founder & Past President Toba Japan Sister Cities Takako Wakita welcomed guests including Bonnie Carroll, City of Santa Barbara Sister Cities Board of Directors, SB/Puerto Vallarto Board  

This new year celebration always includes the installation of new Toba Japan board members, and Linda Matthews, current president offered a fun filled “Kanpai” (cheers) toast of sake to celebrate the new board and the new year.

President Linda Matthews with event musician lead the members and guest in the "Kanpai" 2026 New Years toast. 

Takako Wakita, who founded this organization nearly sixty years ago and served as president of the board, as well as chairwoman of the City of Santa Barbara Sister Cities Board has been the driving force behind the group’s success and popularity over the years sang one of her Japanese opera favorites. She sang with the Japanese Philharmonic Orchestra in the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and also performed in the Opera Santa Barbara “Madam Butterfly” a few years ago, portraying the mother of Santa Barbara opera singer Gaja Hubard Kabaretti. As an active founder and member of countless area organizations, including founding member of the SBCC Japanese Language Program, her contributions to the City of Santa Barbara are awe inspiring.

From the podium Takako shared her great excitement to be celebrating Toba, Japan Sister Cities 60 years with special events being scheduled in end of September to October 1, 2026, including a bevy of visiting Japanese exchange students and friends in Santa Barbara to attend SCI International dinner and honors bestowed to (SBTSCO)at SB City Hall, followed by a trip to celebrate in Toba, Japan as well. For those interested in membership, sponsorship or participation please contact (SBTSCO) sallyshamilton@gmail.com. City

Councilmember Oscar Gutierrez shared special moments form his recent visit to Toba Japan, and said he was delighted to meet so many members, and enjoyed seeing special places of importance. He also said he was looking forward to the upcoming 60th anniversary celebrations being planned.

City Councilmember Oscar Gutierrez shares impressions of Toba Japan

This year’s delicious Shin Nen Kai – New Year Gathering Celebration Dinner was a labor of love created and presented by Toba board member Laurel Lyle and a talented group of chefs. The dinner was exceptional in every way, from the thoughtful and meaningful menu design to the traditional and charming dinner service. Created in the spirit of omotenashi-the Japanese philosophy of wholehearted hospitality, it was inspired by Washoku, culinary principles of harmony, seasonality and balance referred to as The Rule of Five.

Shin Nen Kai – New Year Gathering Celebration Dinner Menu -   Shin Nen Kai Rule of Five

The Rule of Five includes Gomi (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, umami), Goho (grilled, steamed, deep fried, simmered, cutting), Goshiki (red, yellow, white, black, green), Gokan (sight, smell, sound, touch taste) and it all came together for a unique and delicious Toba Sister Cities Organization celebration dinner.  In 2013 UNESCO inscribed Washoku on its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity recognizing the cuisine not as a set of recipes, but as a social practice based on sustainability and a respect for nature.

Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu (happy New Year & Thank You) to the Toba Sister Cities Organization and their very talented board of directors for a memorable and delicious Shin Nen Kai dinner celebration 2026. For City of Santa Barbara Sister Cities membership information please visit: www.santasbarbaraca.gov.

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THE GRAND ON STATE BRINGS SOME COOL JAZZ TO SANTA BARBARA 

Soft keys . . . Savory notes

by Bonnie Carroll

A sophisticated escape called The Grand on State opened next to the Granada Theatre recently, and it is to be sure a long overdue respite for true jazz lovers, where delicious small bites are paired with fine wine and brew to enjoy to the very cool jazz sounds of a tried and true trio of long-time professionals.

The result is a super jazz lovers venue to meet in-kind music lovers and enjoy a full menu of great jazz favorites along with divine small bites and chic beverages.  For details visit: TheGrandOnState.com 1218 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, 805-708-7670. TheGrandOnState@gmail.com.

I love jazz and was blown away by the style and cool jazz breezing through this chic little hide-a-way in Santa Barbara. 

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