Country music superstar Martina McBride loves to soak up inspiration in California. Even though she has hung her proverbial hat in Nashville for years, the four-time Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year—whose hits include “Independence Day,” “A Broken Wing,” “Blessed,” and “Anyway”—admits that she hopes to have her own California wine country home someday down the road.
She’s off to a good start. McBride—a cookbook author and former host of the Food Network’s Martina’s Table—recently launched Luna & Finn rosé, which is named after two McBride family pets. It’s a Provence-style wine that the singer has created from the top-tier Grenache found in Santa Barbara County vineyards.
Below, the multitalented mom of three shares the go-to spots that call her name whenever she’s in California.
Who or what is your greatest California love? The things I look forward to most when I go to California are the weather and the food. It’s so nice to be able to count on sunshine most days. And I just love how you can always find food that is fresh and on the healthy side.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? I think one of the biggest misperceptions about Californians is that they are all laid-back, beach-loving, yoga enthusiasts. In reality, California is an incredibly diverse state with people that come from many different backgrounds that have varying hobbies and perspectives on work, politics, and life in general.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? One stereotype that holds a good amount of truth is that Californians are focused on health and wellness. I feel like many Californians are known for making health and physical fitness a priority by engaging in physical activity such as hiking and biking, and by eating a healthy diet. Things like organic and fresh foods and the wellness culture are prominent. That’s honestly one of the things I love about California. It’s something that always sticks with me when I visit and something I try and incorporate into my life in Nashville.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? Great hotels and delicious food and wine are my go-to indulgences. Whether it’s a cozy boutique hotel or an Auberge resort, we prioritize comfort and service. A 24-hour room service menu and a luxurious spa are ideal. It’s all about creating moments that feel both restful and indulgent.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? California is made for road trips! I love driving the Pacific Coast Highway from San Diego to San Francisco with a stop in Big Sur for those breathtaking views. I also love the drive from San Francisco to Napa Valley, especially taking Highway 12 through Sonoma. It feels like a secret passage into wine country. Napa Valley reminds me of where I grew up in Kansas with its agricultural landscape. It’s also the closest thing to Tuscany I think we have in the U.S. From Napa, we’d visit Yountville, and St. Helena for wine tastings and unforgettable meals. We also love to hit Oakville Grocery for great cheese and snacks. I have cherished memories of magical dinners at Tra Vigne, which is now The Charter Oak. One birthday on tour, we celebrated there with the entire band and crew. I will remember the setting, food, and warmth of that evening forever.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? Dining out in California is so exciting. In L.A. alone my favorites include Mastro’s in Beverly Hills for steak, martinis, and the seafood tower with atomic horseradish; Chateau Marmont for their iconic Bolognese; Jon & Vinny’s for pizza perfection; République serves great brunch or lunch; Joan’s On Third has the best Chinese Chicken Salad; Larchmont Wine and Cheese has heavenly baguette sandwiches; Tu Madre is a great spot for a margarita and delicious and inventive tacos; and for a romantic dinner, La Dolce Vita is an amazing choice.
What is your favorite way to play in California? I would have to say if I only had one day I would most likely spend it in Napa Valley. I just feel so relaxed there. There is a peacefulness that feels like home. I think part of that is the fact that I grew up on a farm in rural Kansas and Napa Valley is such a gorgeous agricultural environment. I have to admit I daydream about having a home there someday. And of course, the amazing food and wine at every turn is a plus!
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? The Grove in L.A. is always fun for a mix of high-end stores and a lively atmosphere. In Santa Barbara I love exploring vintage shops and discovering treasures.
Best California song? “Hotel California” by the Eagles. It’s an evocative masterpiece that captures a mysterious and timeless California vibe. Listening to it I can imagine driving down “a dark desert highway, cool wind in my hair.” It just transports you, making you feel the allure of California’s magic and mystery.
How would your California dream day unfold? My perfect California day starts with a big, leisurely breakfast eaten outside on a sunny balcony or patio. I’d have a cup of strong hot coffee, avocado toast, scrambled eggs with fresh herbs, and fresh-squeezed orange or grapefruit juice. After journaling for a bit, I would go for a long walk on a scenic hiking trail or on the beach.
Next, I would go to a luxurious spa for a massage and facial then, dressed in something chic but comfortable I would do a little shopping with my husband and daughters. We would definitely find a great bookstore and spend time perusing the shelves and reading, followed by a visit to a store full of beautiful dishes and tableware.
Lunch would be at a restaurant with a view, surrounded by nature after a scenic drive in a sporty convertible. We would make our way to a cooking class/demo and wine tasting after which we would take a hot-air balloon ride with a beautiful view (and champagne of course!). Once we have landed safely we would watch the sunset and then make our way to the Santa Monica Pier for some rides and a bit of nostalgic fun by the ocean. A late dinner at an Italian restaurant or a steakhouse would be next followed by a comedy club show or a concert. We would end the night with a nightcap at a cool vibey cocktail bar or speakeasy where we would reflect on the perfect day.