For "My Santa Monica," a new Santa Monica Patch series, we ask prominent figures in the community what they most enjoy about the city. This time around, OPCC Executive Director John Maceri chimes in with his favorite place to eat, his favorite place to shop and his favorite place to walk.

OPCC is the parent of a family of Santa Monica social-service organizations that help low-income and homeless individuals rebuild their lives. The network of shelters and services includes Samoshel, Turning Point, Safe Haven, the Access Center and other critical outlets.

Here are Maceri's picks for his installment of "My Santa Monica":

1. Have lunch at The Lobster. The food and views are amazing.

2. Shop at any of the farmers markets, especially the Wednesday market [on Arizona]. They all have an incredible variety of great foods, and there's a real sense of community as you run into people you know.

3. Stroll along the Third Street Promenade, especially during the holidays when it's cold and all lit up. It has a palpable street vibe that feels real and not contrived, and the lights and decorations add to the ambience.