State Bliss Blog

20 Words That People from California Say

There is always something different and unique in a place. One of the difference is the use of slang words. English might be the universal language that everyone is familiar with, some cities still managed to create their own. Slang words might be informal but is a highly creative way of using the English language and we can see thru it how the language evolves thru time. Slang terms are often only understood by people in a certain group so using a slang words shows which group one belongs. This may help someone know where a person is from. But, as time passes, new terms and words are formed so, the more slang you know, the easier will it be for you to connect and make new friends.

Did you know that there are a lot of slang terms from California? As they really love slang words as it adds color and character to their language. You might have heard some of it as this terms had spread in these English speaking world through Hollywood and music. Some are most often heard on streets and on the beaches of the State. Below, we listed 20 words that people from California say. It is a mix of slang terms from Southern California and Northern California.

Here’s a list of some of them:

1. Hella

It may be used as a shortened term for “a hell lot of” but in California it is used as a substitute to “very” and “really”

“It’s a hella beautiful place!”

“We are having a hella wonderful time!”

2. Butthurt

This term used when a person felt sad or mad over a small thing or event.

“He’s butthurt ‘cause he did not win on our bet. “

“You might get butthurt if she won’t answer your call”

3. Bro

This one is common as it is used to call a guy, may he be a friend or a complete stranger. It is a friendly way and a more respectful way getting one’s attention.

“Hey Bro, are you new here?”

“Bro! want to join?”

4. Cruise

Not the usual cruise from a country to another but it is used to replaces the words, “come” and/or “leave”

“Why don’t you cruise to my place for some drinks?”

“I’m going to cruise. I’ll work early tomorrow.”

5. Tryna

It is usually a shortened term for “Trying to” but in California it is a substitute for “do you like to” “would you want to”

“Tryna dance?”

“Tryna look good?”

6. Yee

Is another way of saying “Yes”

Boy 1: “Are you going to the skate park?”

Boy 2: “Yee! Sure I am!”

7. A Grip

Used to describe a significantly large amount or something uncountable.

“That’s a grip of bolts”

“I ate a grip of sandwiches”

8. Dank

It is a substitute for “good”

“This place is dank! I’ll visit it again.”

“It’s one dank day! Hope it’s like this every day!”

9. Bomb

Not the literal explosive but as a term used when you really like someone or something. This is usually heard from guys when they see some gorgeous lady or a wonderful place.

“This skate is really a bomb”

“She’s a bomb!”

10. Heavy

Not in weight, but it describe a very sad feeling or emotion.

“The scene where their friend died was really heavy.”

“It feel heavy when I see street children.”

11. Gnarly

It originated from surfers in Southern California. It is usually used by surfers when describing something extreme, may it be awesome or awful.

“This beach’s waves are gnarly!”

“It one gnarly day!”

12. SoCal/NorCal

It’s never Cali, but California but if you want to shorten it, you can say SoCal for Southern California and NorCal for Northern California.

“Hey Dude! I’m from SoCal!”

“There are a lot of beautiful places in NorCal!”

13. Swoop

A term used to say “pick up”. Some use this term as “steal” as well.

“John, swoop me at 5pm.”

“Let’s swoop the cake at the mall!”

14. Yadadamean

Yadadamean is a shorten term for “You know what I mean”, “I understand”. It can also be shorten to “yadada”

Dad: “Don’t stay up to late, ok?”

Son: “Yadada!”

Bro1: “He’s just too predictive, yadada?”

Bro2: “Yee, he really is”

15. Coo

It means “cool”

Bro 1: “Let’s play basketball after class”

Bro 2: “That’ll be great!”

Bro 1: “Coo!”

16. Bum

Term used for “borrow/have”

“I’ll let you bum 5 bucks.”

“Go bum your Dad’s car!

17. Post up

Used when you’re telling someone to stand by or wait.

“Son, just post up. I’ll be back”

“Post up! You’ll be called soon”

18. To rock

Something to wear or accessories with style. It may also mean that you will be at your best with the said outfit or item.

“Dude! I’m gonna rock it with this shirt on!”

“I only rock with sneaks.”

19. June Gloom

http://www.onlyinyourstate.com/southern-california/unique-words-so-cal/

It is a day in June when the sky is grey. When those gray skies are still lingering overhead, we complain about June Gloom.

“It’s June gloom again, it feels so blue.”

“I hope June gloom will be over soon.”

20. The Industry

The Industry is short for the entertainment industry. If you're in film or TV in Southern California, you're in "the industry."

“Are you working in The Industry?”

“The Industry is just too complicated.”

This are just few slang words said in California. Aren’t this words so fascinating? This showed how people from California can be so creative and playful with their language.  They also have phrases and other terms used to describe or substitute a word or an event. So now, if you’re not from California, and you know some of these terms, you won’t be having a hard time chatting or smoothly conversing to someone from California. And if you’re from California, hope you enjoyed and related to the words above! We know you’ll be thinking of more, go share it with us so others can learn from it as well!

For years, Mexican food- especially tacos, had been a part of American’s life. Since it is shares border with Mexico, we can say that Tacos is a really popular dish in California. So, if you’re craving for a taste of Mexican food while in the western state of the United States, here’s three of the best and oldest taco restaurants.

1. King Taco

https://www.yelp.com/biz/king-taco-lynwood

King Taco started from a converted ice cream truck in 1974. It is popularly known for using fresh ingredients and consistent quality. With its success, it expanded to 20 popular locations throughout Los Angeles. King Taco has been recognized by prominent food critics and has also placed within the top 100 of Hispanic Business Magazine’s “Top 500 Hispanic Businesses.” Their Menu consist of not just tacos but also with, burritos, tamales, roasted chicken, nachos, sopes and quesadilla.

2. Taco Nazo

https://www.yelp.com/biz/taco-nazo-bellflower

In 1978, Taco Nazo started as a lunch-truck and in just three years, it was able to open its first restaurant in La Puente, California. It was the first restaurant to offer Baja-Style Cuisine. Taco Nazo’s menu items such as tacos and burritos feature marinated, char-grilled meats and other high-quality ingredients. After 10 years in the business, it became the most recognized seller of Fish and Shrimp Tacos in Los Angeles. This taco house now has six branches in California.

3. Mi Casa

https://twitter.com/MiCasaCM/status/872949969493213184

Mi Casa is a family owned restaurant which started in 1972. The place is known as a local “hot-spot” as its rustic, red brick accents, weathered chairs, and beautiful dark wood accents provides a comfortable and relaxing environment. For 40 years, it has been distinguished as one of the best Mexican restaurant in the Orange County. Today, Mi Casa celebrates 45 Years of good food and festive times.

4. Bill’s Taco House

https://la.eater.com/2017/2/16/14631300/cheeseburger-taco-bills-taco-house-south-los-angeles

Bill’s Taco House is one of the first taco house to infuse their taco recipe with ground beef. Located on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Los Angeles, this taco house made a slight variation of ground beef on their taco, known as the cheese burger taco. Their menu consists of not just tacos, but they also have regular burgers and fries, plus the Silva Burrito, a thumbs up to Hank- the second owner. Original Bill’s Taco House exist before Tito’s Tacos by a full decade, and Henry’s Tacos even longer.

5. Blue Water Seafood Market and Grill

https://localemagazine.com/go-fish-12-fish-tacos-in-san-diego-not-to-miss/blue-water-seafood-market-grill-yelp/

Blue Water Seafood Market and Grill serves several seafood dishes. The restaurant located in San Diego is owned by fishermen who grew up in the surrounding waters surfing, boating, and diving. Their grilled seafood with your choice of marinade can be served in a sandwich, salad or on a plate. They are also famous for serving Fish tacos on the docks in Ensenada, where they were invented. Ahi sashimi in the galley on the boat ride home, sliced from that morning’s tuna catch. White Sea Bass pulled from the Baja surf and grilled on the spot over a mesquite campfire. A must try as well is their homemade soups & chowders and fresh oysters on the half shell.

6. Petty Cash

http://www.latimes.com/food/la-fo-gold-20130727-story.html

Petty Cash, located in San Diego, started with the collaboration of Chef Walter Manzke and a myriad of talent drawn from East LA, Baja and more. Hi was inspired to create Petty Cash due to his fascination in creating a vibe which is connected to Tijuana and his love for music. The name Petty Cash is the mixed of both musical artists Johnny Cash and Tom Petty’s name. On their menu are several tacos, from the famous Al Pastor to fish taco to Eggplant Taco and several more. Aside from tacos, they also serve cocktails, beers, nachos, quesadilla, sweets and more. This taco house will now reach more people as delivery via Uber Eats and Postmates is now available.

7. Bear Flag Fish Co.

https://www.dinenb.com/offer/bear-flag-fish-co-taco-tuesday/

The name was from the name of the both that the owner’s family possessed. With his experience and knowledge in evaluating and treating fishes, the idea of creating his own business started. Their menu is filled with numerous seafood dishes, from their appetizer, soup and dishes and their main entrees. Their Bear Flag Fish Tacos is made from panko crusted white fish with cabbage, pico de gallo & Tommy sauce. While their specialty Tacos is with choice of fish with cabbage, pico de gallo & Tommy sauce.

8. La Super-Rica Taqueria

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/116178865357854520/

La Super-Rica Taqueria is located in Sta. Barbara, California. This food joint became famous as Julia Child, a french cuisine visionary is one of America's most beloved kitchen treasures, singled out Super Rica as one of her favorite places to eat. Until today, La Super Rica often has line out the door of customers who wanted a taste of some seriously delicious Mexican food. The joint is also known for the price of their dishes. The priciest only cost $7 while most of the other dishes only cost less than $4 bucks. It’s safe it say that you’ll be exiting the place with a full tummy and a not so slim wallet.

9. Guerrilla Tacos

https://www.yelp.com/biz/guerrilla-tacos-los-angeles

This business was started back in 2012 by Chef Wes Avila with his passion for cooking and love for Tacos and Los Angeles. He wanted to make a gourmet food accessible to the street. Their dished changes daily as they will only create it based on what fresh ingredients they can get from local vendors. Their following quickly grew, so they got a street cart and set up outside some coffee houses. But it wasn’t enough so short time later, they got the truck. Aside from tacos, they also serve quesadilla, Agua Fresca and Ahi Tuna Tostado.

10. Esther’s Taco House

https://www.yelp.com/biz/esthers-taco-house-placentia

Esther’s Taco House started in 1957 by Esther Hernandez and her mother. It first opened in Downey, California. At the beginning it was strictly take-out food and there was only one table to sit and wait for your tacos. But, all the customers wanted to sit and eat their food there, so when the shoe repair shop near them closed, Esther expanded her restaurant to add a dining room. Their menu contains beers, appetizers- chips, nachos, and quesadilla and chicken wings.

For years, there has been a huge debate among people regarding the deliciousness (or lack there of) of Candy Corn. But for those of you who are fans of the hallmark Halloween candy.. prepare to flip your lids over Disney's new Candy Corn Soft Serve.

It's actually not new — it's been served at Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party for the last few years, but it somehow managed to go unknown, possibly overshadowed by other Disney treats like wine slushies and Freakshakes.

After stumbling across The Disney Food Blog, we found out this mysterious dessert comes in either a cup or cone... topped with vanilla and orange swirled soft serve, which comes with crushed candy corn on top. You can find it at Storybook Treats in Fantasyland, as well as Auntie Gravity's Galactic Goodies in Tomorrowland, along with other Halloween treats.

We were shocked to find out the dessert has been around since 2013, and is featured in this year's Halloween Party Guide. Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party runs on select nights from August 25, 2017 to November 1, 2017. 

12 of the Best Wine Tasting Cities in California

1. Paso Robles, CA

Paso Robles is a beautiful destination. Rolling hillsides, glistening vineyards, and endless wineries and cellars ready to greet visitors are just a portion of what makes Paso Robles so wonderful. Paso Robles is plentifully littered with quaint hotels and is always hosting family friendly events that are sure to keep you well accommodated and thoroughly entertained.

2. Santa Barbara, CA

Santa Barbara county is known for their wineries; so why not visit the heart of the agriculture? Santa Barbara is proud to have developed wine tasting routes so that you don’t miss a single tasting opportunity. Santa Barbara will completely immerse you in the wine country culture.

3. Nappy Valley, CA

Napa Valley is the icon of California’s wine country. Sprawling sun-kissed vineyards, sophisticated luxurious lifestyles, and stunning mountainous backdrops are the epitome of this unforgettable location. In a place that is known first and foremost for its wine, you can feel confident that you won’t leave disappointed.

4. Sonoma Valley, CA

Boasting the same stunning landscapes as other popular wine country locales, Sonoma Valley can also add to its list of perks, its historic wine cellars. With a warm, subtly lighted ambiance, the Sonoma Valley wineries have some of the most romantic wineries and cellars in the country.

5. Santa Cruz, CA

Located on California’s central coastline, the beautiful city of Santa Cruz has some fantastic wineries. Santa Cruz wineries are more often than not, small production wineries ran by vinters who are passionate about their craft, ready to hospitably answer any questions you have while providing you a friendly tour and magnificent tasting experience. If you’re looking for a winery visit with a personal touch, Santa Cruz is the place to be.

6. Sierra Foothills, CA

With natural bucket list wonders like Yosemite and Lake Tahoe nearby, you can count on your wine tasting visit to the Sierra Foothills to include a little adventure too! A historical reminder of the once Wild West, the Sierra Foothills make a great destination for the adventurous wine connoisseur.

7. Mendocino, CA

When a place like Mendocino is graced with so many beautiful wineries, how can you choose just one? Well, you don’t have to. You see, if you register for the Mendo Insider’s Wine Tour Express, knowledgeable guides will escort you on a leisurely scenic route throughout the Mendocino wine region from winery to winery. Problem solved!

8. Temecula, CA

Temecula, a growing suburb of San Diego, is Southern California’s personal wine country. With more than 30 wineries to choose from, you can literally tailor your experience to your own personal interest and tastes.

9. San Diego, CA

San Diego is full of wonderful experiences to be had – so why not partake in some of them? San Diego offers a winery tour by train! How exciting is that? Relax and take in the view as the train rolls in to one urban winery after another. Want more? You can make a special stop to grab a bite to eat too! Win-win.

10. Escondido, CA

So - you like wine, and your significant other likes beer. Issue? Not in Escondido. Escondido is home to a long list of wineries and breweries. With an adult beverage for everyone, even the most particular of travelers is guaranteed to enjoy the trip!

11. Los Angeles, CA

Even in a bustling urban metropolis like Los Angeles, you can find great wine tasting opportunities. This is a great option for locals looking for a sophisticated and relaxed outing with family, friends, or co-workers. Make a reservation and head on over after work to unwind with a flavorful glass of your favorite wine.

12. Healdsburg, CA

Nestled within Sonoma County, Healdsburg is a more rural town. With its laid-back atmosphere and great wine selection, the trip to Healdsburg is a great escape from the urban crawl.

11 Little Known Swimming Spots in California Worth Visiting

1. Gualala

In Northern California, the small town of Gualala offers the beauty of the forest and the summertime lure of the coastline. Offering a variety of uncrowded swimming spots, you’re free to take your pick between the cool blue waters of the Pacific Ocean or the warmer Gualala River.

2. Natural Bridges

This majestic swimming spot is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before. You’ll journey below the visible earth’s surface and into a cavern to get to this little-known gem. Visitors enjoy swimming, or floating, the length of the hollowed-out cavern.

3. The Lower McCloud Falls

Boasting three waterfalls, the McCloud Falls offer a variety of swimming spots suitable for summer fun. Soak in the sun, bring a lunch, and make a day of it. Satisfy your urge for thrill and jump from the cliffs into the water below. It’s hard to find a more beautiful spot to swim.

4. Sierraville Hot Springs

Filled with water from nearby natural hot springs, the pools and spas at Sierraville Hot Springs offer an earthy swimming experience in a resort style setting. The water is warm, the scenic backdrop is gorgeous.

5. Little Backbone Creek

Little Backbone Creek is unlike any other natural swimming spot. Not only is it gorgeous, but since it has been such a well-kept secret, large crowds won’t jeopardize your exotic experience. Just a short hike from the shore, it’s easy for just about anyone to get to. Oh yeah, one more thing… Natural Water Slides! You’re welcome.

6. Meek’s Bay

With Meek’s Bay’s white sandy beaches and crystal blue water, you’ll feel like you’ve landed on a tropical paradise. Perfect for the adventurer, nearby campgrounds and resorts let you extend your stay so that you have an opportunity to explore the hiking trails, do some boating, and get in some swimming!

7. Orr Hot Springs

If you’re looking for a quiet getaway, Orr Hot Springs is the place to be. nestled within the hilly terrain of the Mendocino Range, pools adorn rest alongside natural springs. Filled with natural waters from springs that remain unfiltered and pristine. The experience is simply refreshing.

8. Castle Lake

Deep within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Castle Lake offers great camping grounds if you’re the outdoorsy type that wants to stay a while. Enjoy a variety of water sports – from swimming, kayaking, boating, and more – this location is the perfect place to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the urban environment.

9. Clear Lake

Clear Lake is the oldest known lake on the continent, and one of the largest in the golden state. Swimming in this huge piece of history is a blast! Bring the whole family!

10. Lake Helen

Lake Helen is incredibly stunning. With a mountainous backdrop and a mix of desert and forest landscaping, this swimming spot located in Lassen Volcanic National Park is so peaceful and pleasing to the eye that you’ll never want to leave.

11. Donner Lake

Last but not least, Donner Lake. This luscious mountain refuge is beautiful year-round. Home to lakeside-loving residents, the Donner Lake community has the ability to take you back to childhood nostalgia at summer camp. Unwind and have some fun at this great low-key swim spot this summer. You won’t be disappointed.