Just trying to finish up posts on our May road trip here.
After having a wonderful dinner at Les Petites Canailles in Paso Robles, then enjoying a nice walk the following morning at Montana de Oro State Park, we headed to our next destination. We had enjoyed Cambria so much during our November road trip that we decided to return for an evening.
It was a bit early for check-in when we arrived, so I headed over to the East Village where the Missus "caught up" on some shopping at the charming little shops.
Not sure why this pooch was so tuckered out, but he didn't move a muscle as customers came and went......it was quite amusing.
We decided to pick up some snacks for lunch and headed over to Soto's True Earth Market.
It's a lovely little market with everything from sandwiches and cheese, to local produce and snacks. Folks were very friendly and we enjoyed the little shop.....I even purchased a shopping bag.
Soto's True Earth Market
2244 Main St.
Cambria, CA 93428
I had noticed tables and seating arranged outside the charming Cambria Historical Museum which was closed due to the pandemic.
It was a beautiful day, so we decided to have our snacks here.
Though we did ask permission from the local "security detail".
Soon enough I received a text message letting me know our room was ready. Just like Paso Robles, we were doing a repeat stay....we had really enjoyed the El Colibri Hotel & Spa on our previous visit to Cambria, the staff at El Colibri are very welcoming and friendly, we enjoyed the quiet location as well, just a short walk to the West Village where I had made dinner reservations at yet another "repeat" location. We had enjoyed our meal at Madeline's during our November road trip, so the Missus and I decided for another visit. It was just as good....so I won't dwell too much on the details and leave you mostly with photos.
The Missus loves the scallops and the "Spanish Octopus", but also really enjoyed the seasonal salad....... Which had....a bacon vinaigrette.
So guess who had to make bacon vinaigrette when we got home? Actually, it was pretty easy as our Server asked the chef about the recipe.....we didn't get a recipe; but got a ingredient list.
They even split our main; the Aubergine Gratin without us having to ask.
The weakest dish of the meal as for some reason the bechamel really didn't bring out the flavors of the eggplant.......
But that's ok as the other dishes were wonderful.
And the Missus enjoyed the Chocolate Truffle Mousse Cake for dessert, while I enjoyed a nice Tawny Port.
And we got the same lovely outdoor table as on our previous visit. When I mentioned that we enjoyed this table, we were instructed to request "Patio 1" the next time we visit. And....I think there will be a next time. There's something about the vibe and staff that we really enjoy here.
Madeline's Restaurant & Wine Tasting Room
788 Main St.
Cambria, CA 93428
We finished up dinner and walked back to the hotel. Since this was at the end of May, the sun wouldn't set until after 8pm. So, like we did on our previous visit to Cambria we took the short walk down to Shamel Community Park and took in the beautiful sunset.
A perfect end to our day. Back at the room, I had a brew as a nightcap as I will often do on trips. It always gives me time to think about and ponder how blessed we are.......especially during these times to have our health, each other, and even though we'd obviously love to be in Paris, I've come to appreciate a part of California that I think is vastly underrated.
Thanks for stopping by!
Wow! that sunset view!! also, the "security detail" you crack me up :'D
Posted by: Lynnea Fleming | Saturday, 17 July 2021 at 10:22 PM
Those birds really DID run the place Lynnea! ;o) Shamel Park seems to be kind of an
under-the-radar place as it never seems to be crowded. At least when we visit.
Posted by: Kirk | Sunday, 18 July 2021 at 09:44 AM
pretty sunset!
Posted by: kat | Sunday, 18 July 2021 at 04:35 PM
Well you can’t say all that and not share the ingredients in the bacon vinaigrette! ;-)
Posted by: Keena | Sunday, 18 July 2021 at 05:01 PM
I've so enjoyed your account of your visit to the Central Coast. We went to Cambria ourselves when the restrictions dropped. If you haven't been, you should check out Guadalupe, near the Nipomo Dunes. El Tapatio is little hole in the wall family run Mexican restaurant with the best chile rellenos I've ever had. Also, consider the drive to Casmalia to try the original Hitching Post--a step back in time to the 1960's and my favorite filet mignon.
Posted by: Cathy Greene | Sunday, 18 July 2021 at 05:22 PM
It was quite beautiful Kat!
Lol Keena! Ok, let me get that in a post.
Thanks Cathy. I've only been the Buellton location of the Hitching Post..... Thanks for the recommendations and hope all is well!
Posted by: Kirk | Monday, 19 July 2021 at 06:46 AM
With most countries closed to foreigners I think it's going to be domestic travel for most Americans for the foreseeable future.
Posted by: Junichi | Monday, 19 July 2021 at 02:01 PM
I'm thinking that too Junichi! Though I see Canada is supposed to be opening up August 9th and several countries in the EU are open - but it's the return to the US that is worrying me.
Posted by: Kirk | Monday, 19 July 2021 at 02:23 PM
My dream is to retire in this area. Better start saving. :)
Posted by: Janfrederick | Tuesday, 20 July 2021 at 03:13 PM
Remember to invite me over Jan!!! ;o)
Posted by: Kirk | Tuesday, 20 July 2021 at 08:46 PM