Fodor's Expert Review Thyme in the Ranch

Put your phone down and lose track of time—or thyme—at this darling cottage in the heart of Rancho Santa Fe. Owner-chef Keely Barrera has created quite the spread with artisan-baked goods made with locally sourced ingredients like the homemade muffins that blend blueberry with bran or raspberry with mango. Grab a scone or sweet bread to go, or stay for the savory Mediterranean quiche, albacore tuna salad, or old-fashioned turkey meat loaf; the focaccia sandwiches are guilt-free with locally grown avocado, tomatoes, and eggplant. If available, snag a table on the patio overlooking the rose garden.