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VISIT TASTE RELAX C
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Y
CM
MY
One of America’s best known wineries has
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CMY
a tasting room in the heart of Silicon Valley.
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At the Lohr family’s San Jose location, you can taste award-winning vintages. Many, like the J. Lohr Gesture Rhône-style releases are only available here, “at the source.” All paired with friendly, genuine hospitality. TASTING DAILY 10AM - 5PM
1000 LENZEN AVE, SAN JOSE, CA 95126 408.288.5057 | JLOHR.COM
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FEATURES:
PUBLISHERS
Bret Colhouer Lani Colhouer
ART & DESIGN
Christy Serpa Jamie Andreozzi
EXECUTIVE EDITOR & CONTENT STRATEGIST
North Coast
Theresa-Marie Wilson
Put Life on Coast in Morro Bay California...........................6-13
MARKETING
Dave Diaz Leah Castelein Karita Hårrskog Mike Lee
Best Breaks to Surf.............................................................16-17
North County Paso Robles Casino............................................................22-25
OPERATIONS & EVENT MANAGER Kelley Redmon Braga
Design and Artwork Beckons Locals and Travelers...........26-33
SALES
Carrie Vickerman Dana McGraw Jessica Micklus Rose Cutrer
San L uis Obispo Adventure Aide: Hiking, Biking, Making Friends................44-47 Cover photo by Ben Schutzer
South County
PROJECT COORDINATOR Tina Mitchell
Best Beaches to Explore....................................................54-55 Kiddos on the Go Go.........................................................56-59
CONTRIBUTORS
Ben Schutzer Courtney Haile Judy Salamacha Justin Stoner Karita Hårrskog Mark Diaz Mark Nakamura Megan Friberg Neil Farrell Teri Bayus Vivian Krug
Things to do Around the County Pet Friendly Spots...............................................................18-19 Wedding Venues.................................................................34-35 Calendar of Events.............................................................36-37 SLO County Snapshot........................................................38-41 Family Fun............................................................................... 42 Get Your Drink On.............................................................48-49 Hiking Trails........................................................................50-51 Where the Locals Go.........................................................60-61 Top Local Restaurants........................................................62-67 Chefs Battle to be Chosen Best.........................................68-72 Breweries................................................................................ 73 Galleries..............................................................................74-75
This is a publication of Simply Clear Marketing and Media, Inc., Copyright 2007–2018 all rights reserved. One free copy per person. Additional copies can be obtained at our offices 615 Clarion Court, #2, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401. Simply Clear Marketing and Media makes every reasonable effort to ensure the accuracy of its contents. Please notify us if information is incorrect. phone (805) 543-6397 fax (805) 772-4625 615 Clarion Ct., #2, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
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Land & Sea Properties
OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
c o m m u n i t y n ews • d i g i t a l p r e s e n c e • eve n t s • m a g a z i n e s
Avila Beach News
Call (805) 543-NEWS
615 Clarion Ct., #2, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
www.simplyclearmarketing.com
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HAVE A SLO SUMMER. TAKE CLASSES. DO BOTH.
NORTH COAST
Photo by Mark Nakamura
SUMMER STARTS JUNE 11 Choose from two sessions: 8-week session from June 11 – August 03 6-week session from June 18 – July 27 (805) 546-3100
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Early Summer courses also available May 21 – June 29
I
f you are looking to spend a day enjoying breathtaking views, delicious food, and a little adventure, look no further than the North Coast! Start your day in Los Osos by taking a drive up to Montana De Oro State Park. If you like to hike, it is a great place to take in 360-degree views of the ocean and canyons. If hiking isn’t your thing, spend some time at Spooner’s Cove and watch the waves crash over the mountainous rocks. Next, make your way just a few miles north to Morro Bay and take a ride on the famous Tiki Boat. Lost Isle Adventures offers a 45-minute guided tour of the harbor on a tiki themed bar boat. Yes, a bar boat! You will learn the history of the harbor and Morro Rock, and get an up close view of the sea otters and other indigenous wildlife.
Photo by www.PhotobyVivian.com
After your tour, head further north to Cayucos. Stroll along Ocean Blvd. and stop into Schooners Warf restaurant. Enjoy an ocean view while feasting on their legendary calamari steak strips. They are also known for their killer Bloody Mary. End your day in Cambria. This beach town is full of unique shops nestled amid a beautiful pine forest. After some shopping, sit down for dinner at Robin’s restaurant. Robin’s features cuisine with an array of international flavors made from farmers’ market fresh ingredients. There are also a variety of lodging choices in Cambria including everything from upscale hotels to boutique bed and breakfasts. spring | summer 2018
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MORRO BAY WAS BUILT ON FISHING
Put Life on Coast in Morro Bay, California
The city of Morro Bay started out as a small commercial fishing village in the 1950s and grew to be a vacation destination built on living an active healthy lifestyle filled with outdoor adventure. Today, Morro Bay is home to a thriving fishing community, successfully leading the way in sustainable small fleet fishing practices nationwide as recognized in the New York Times and National Geographic. Aside from the local catch of salmon, halibut, albacore, rock cod and Dungeness crab that can be found up and down the waterfront, oyster farming in Morro Bay is a continued tradition. Oyster farming actually began in the early 1900s and has been a part of the rich culture and economic strength ever since. The cold, clean waters of Morro Bay produce two specific varieties: Pacific Gold Oysters are a beautiful, hardy species that develop a robust flavor with a hint of melon, and Grassy Bar Oysters are medium sized and have plump and juicy meats with rich, briny watermelon flavor. Fishing and farming these healthy local waters are part and parcel to what makes Morro Bay such a unique and active destination.
BUSTLING WATERFRONT AND CHARMING DOWNTOWN
Morro Bay’s harbor, beach and bay are a hub of activity that attracts visitors from around the world, local residents and anglers alike. Whether you are strolling the Embarcadero shopping and lunching, or heading out to experience one of the many water sport adventures, Morro Bay is an enchanting destination. Stroll along the Embarcadero and enjoy homemade saltwater taffy or the smell of fresh baked
cinnamon rolls. Discover numerous fresh fish markets offering handmade clam chowder served in a sour dough bread bowl, fish and chips or fresh steamed cracked-crab. From the Embarcadero, take a walk out to Morro Rock, past the marinas, along the harbor walkway as you watch the boats come and go through the harbor mouth. Take a walk through our quaint downtown shopping district just up the steps from the Embarcadero filled with lodging properties, antique shops, one of-a-kind boutiques, jewelry stores, art galleries, coffee shops and restaurants. The Saturday afternoon Farmers’ Market on Main Street in downtown is alive with produce, local vendors and fun surprises. Stop in for a matinée at the classic historic Bay Theater. continued, page 10
tickets available
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his casual seaside fishing village with bustling waterfront offers a picture perfect getaway for travelers who seek great food, shopping, museums, wine and coastal adventures. Morro Bay offers a slower pace, small town charm, and the calm yet vibrant feeling that being outdoors near the ocean brings. Located along the Central California Coastline on California’s scenic Highway 1, midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Morro Bay offers an unspoiled slice of California. Sitting pretty between the beach and the harbor is the most recognizable landmark — Morro Rock. This amazing landmark welcomes travelers as they approach the city from miles away and is unforgettable.
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cinco de mayo
avomargfest.com
Saturday, Sept. 8th, 2018 On the waterfront in morro bay, ca $5 IN ADVANCE | $7 AT THE DOOR | groms under 10 free
BOOK YOUR STAY AT MORROBAY.ORG spring | summer 2018
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OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Whether your adventurous spirit is extreme or serene, you will discover amazing outdoor activities in Morro Bay. For the adventurer looking for something exciting, sign up for a deep sea sport fishing expedition to catch the big one from one of the many charter boat companies that line the bay. Catch salmon, rockfish, lingcod, albacore or whatever is biting on daily fishing trips from Virg’s
Landing Sport Fishing. They provide live bait in season and you can rent tackle if you need it. From kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and canoeing, to sailing and surfing, there are many rental companies to keep the active adventurer happy and healthy in Morro Bay. Or, head to the Back Bay for a round of golf at the Morro Bay State Park Golf Course. With amazing bayside views, this 18-hole course is a must do for the avid golfer. For the bird lovers, be sure to bring your binoculars. Watching the surfers at the Rock, or having a picnic on the beach are great ways to enjoy our coast and capture some beautiful photos. Morro Bay is also recognized as a Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists, and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails found in and around the area. From the Black Mountain trail in Morro Bay State Park to hiking the Morro Bay sand spit in Montana de Oro, or the Cloisters Wetlands Trails in North Morro Bay, the natural beauty of this coastal community is breathtaking. continued, page 12
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get inspired.
get connected.
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Check out Sub Sea Tours for whale watching and bay tours where you will discover the plethora of sea otter families that live in Morro Bay. Or book an evening sunset cruise or Saturday brunch cruise on the bay with one of the many other tour operators along the Embarcadero. You can even rent an electric boat and cruise the bay yourself! The Morro Bay Estuary is an 800-acre wetland home to more than 250 species of land, sea, and shore birds, both migratory and resident and dozens of endangered species located in Morro Bay State Park. Morro Bay hosts the Winter Bird Festival every January attracting bird watchers and photographers from all over the world. The great blue herons and the great and snowy egrets roost all year at the Heron and Cormorant Rookery located near the entrance of the Museum of Natural History. You can walk to the site and observe these magnificent birds, watch courtship rituals, nesting habits, and, in spring, adults caring for their young.
MUSEUMS, ART & CULTURE
Museums, art and culture take center stage in this seaside village. The Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History offers new displays focused on the ecology of the Morro Bay Estuary. Featuring state-of-the-art interactive exhibits, this is the only museum of its kind in the California State Park system. Several exhibits feature touch screens that provide visitors the opportunity to find out what the forces of nature
Wonderful Food. Friendly Service.
Casual, elegant dining located in the Morro Bay State Park Marina.
Dog Friendly Patio!
Bayside Café
AT T H E M A R I N A 10 State Park Road, Morro Bay | 805-772-1465
are doing at that moment in time. Visitors can build a sand dune, operate the hydrologic cycle and dig into the food pit to create their own food chains. The Morro Bay Art Center is one of the largest California Central Coast venues for exhibiting original fine art by local artists, boasting two large galleries on site. Additional local galleries are dotted throughout town and feature artists’ works from blown glass and sculpture, to fine jewelry and paintings all year long. Now visitors can add the Morro Bay Mural Mile Walk to their itineraries. This walk is the perfect way to tour the downtown and waterfront areas, enjoying the 23 murals that depict the area’s natural beauty, its history and the amazing array of sea life beyond the shores. If you like naval military and maritime memorabilia, you won’t want to miss the Morro Bay Maritime Museum. Tour the DSRV Submarine, the U.S. Coast Guard rollover rescue craft and hear the story of the Alma, Sylvester’s Tug Service Tugboat that rescued the crew off the Montebello downed by enemy submarine in WWII. By 2019, visitors will be able to enjoy an interpretive center currently under construction. The Morro Bay Skateboard Museum is the place where visitors can see the complete history of skateboarding - from the early 1930’s to present day. More than 200 skateboards are on display from all eras with rotating exhibits from extensive private collections.
WINE BARS, WINE TASTING & LIVE MUSIC
RESTAURANTS & FRESH SEAFOOD
With thriving aquaculture and agriculture industries, fresh seafood and locally grown produce are in abundance. Windows on the Water is a well-known local favorite for its seasonal farm to table menus, oyster Tuesdays, fabulous views, and an incredible wine list. Sunsets don’t get much better than when viewed from this romantic dining room on the bay. Dorn’s Original Breakers Cafe on Market Street above the Embarcadero has been a Morro Bay favorite since 1942, offering breathtaking views overlooking the Embarcadero and the bay. They offer fresh seafood, a great brunch and make a mean Bloody Mary. At Tognazzini’s Dockside visitors can actually watch the catch of the day being unloaded as they sit under patio umbrellas listening to live music while eating fish tacos, smoked salmon or fresh tuna from this restaurant and seafood market. The family-friendly Hofbrau der Albatross restaurant offers patio- seating right on the bay with a perfect view of Morro Rock. Diners can watch the sea life frolicking in the bay as they dig into their freshly carved roast beef the restaurant has been known for serving for more than 35 years. And don’t miss Giovanni’s Fish Market right on the bay, offering their famous giant calamari sandwich, fish taco Tuesdays and fried fish on a stick – a favorite for kids. This family owned fresh fish market has been a main stay on the waterfront for more than 25 years. The Morro Bay Oyster Company is opening a waterfront retail space on the Embarcadero where diners will be able to enjoy fresh oysters any day of the week. Looking for healthy vegan and vegetarian? Shine Café in Downtown Morro Bay is a local favorite and Goddess Goods is a new, local organic cafe that offers fresh-pressed juice, smoothies, espresso, vegetarian/ vegan food, and more.
Located on the bay with magnificent views of the harbor, the Morro Bay Wine Seller has provided a comprehensive selection of local and regional wines to for taste or purchase for more than a decade. They also offer specialty cheeses, olive oils and craft beers and live music. Morro Bay Wine Seller has been a local rising star on the live music scene in Morro Bay and brings in local and national acts, not to mention super fun open mic nights. If you are looking for a wine bar that offers great food, stop by Stax Wine Bar & Bistro for a bite on the bay. Come relax by a fire on plush leather couches and choose from more than 150 local and imported wines with many offered by the taste, glass and bottle. Enjoy lunch or dinner from the tapas menu featuring gourmet cheeses and charcuterie, Panini sandwiches, prawn cocktails, oysters on the half shell, and to die for carpaccio. Morro Bay is also home to three wine tasting rooms. Chateau Margene and MCV Wines specialize in red Bordeaux varietals and their tasting rooms are located right on the Embarcadero. Cuatro Dias is a boutique winery that produces only 3,000 cases a year and their tasting room is located in North Morro Bay. Paso Robles and SLO Wine Country are minutes away and many wine touring companies will come to Morro Bay and pick you up from your hotel, B&B or vacation rental. The Siren Rhythm & Booze, located at 900 Main St, is Morro Bay’s hottest new bar and live music venue supporting the Central Coast’s local talent, as well as national touring acts. Ticketed shows usually start at around 7 p.m. on most nights. On the weekend, there’s also a free live show on Saturday from 3 p.m.– 6 p.m. during the Farmers’ Market and Jazz Jams throughout the month on Sundays at 4 p.m. continued, page 14
MTW 11–3pm, Thurs & Sun 11–8:30pm, Fri & Sat 11–9pm
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HEALTH &
! s U Join
MORE FAMILY FUN
For a family-friendly California adventure head to Morro Bay where moms, dads, grandparents and little ones will enjoy a fun and comfortable getaway with a wide range of activities, and places to stay offering free breakfast. Spend a day exploring the bustling waterfront filled with classic places to stop like the Shell Shop, on the Embarcadero since 1955, or Crill’s Salt Water Taffy stand, in Morro Bay since 1970. Kids of all ages love the Sub Sea semi-submersible boat tour that gives the feeling of what it’s like to be underwater without donning a wetsuit. Rent kites and a surrey from Farmer’s Kite Shop and bicycle out to Morro Rock along the harbor walk to fly your kites on the beach. The whole family can relax and take in all the natural beauty of this unique fishing village.
FITNESS
EXPO
23 & 24
2019
MARCH
ALEX MADONNA EXPO CENTER
For more information visit www.morrobay. org and follow Morro Bay on Facebook, twitter or Instagram.
• • •
Free to Attend Health Screenings Nutrition Information
• • •
5k Fun Run Seminars & Workshops Senior Citizens Corner
inspiredexpos.com 805-772-4600
Where life is fun, go out and capture it! SINCE 1985
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BEAUTIFUL MORRO BAY FRESH SEAFOOD
TAQUITO TUESDAY
It starts to our our dock. dock. It starts with with hand-selected hand-selected fish fish delivered delivered right right to Served the ocean. ocean. Served within within hours hours of of being being pulled pulled from from the
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701 701 Embarcadero, Morro Bay 701 Embarcadero Embarcadero Morro Bay, CA Morro Bay,772-2269 CA 93442 93442 • www.dutchmansseaoodhouse.com Call: (805)
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Call: Call: (805)772-2269 (805)772-2269 www.dutchmansseafoodhouse.com www.dutchmansseafoodhouse.com
Ben Schutzer www.RunAmuckPhotography.com
4 Taquitos for $5! — add rice & beans for $3 Fire Roasted Vegetable Soup — $4.95 sm $7.50 lrg 2848 N. Main St, Morro Bay • 772-5686
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner • 10am to 9pm 7 Days a Week • All Items Available to Go
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he Central Coast has so many beautiful beaches to explore. Whether you love to surf, kayak, tidepool, or just enjoy lying on the beach, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to spend your day. Don’t forget to pack up your trash when you leave! Here are some of the best breaks to surf: Lighthouse (pictured far left) San Simeon (pictured above right) Cayucos (pictured left and below)
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Photos by Ben Schutzer
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Pet ly d n e i Fr s t o Sp
Dolphin Bay Resort and Spa 2727 Shell Beach Rd, Unit 131, Pismo Beach Phone: 805-773-5003 Dolphin Inn 399 South Ocean Avenue, Cayucos Dogs only with a $10 fee Phone: 805-995-3810 Inn at Morro Bay 60 State Park Rd., Morro Bay Dogs only with a $25 fee. Up to two dogs Phone: 805-772-5651 Pier View Suites 12 N Ocean Ave., Suite 226, Cayucos Dogs and cats with a $30 fee Phone: 805-995-0014 Pismo Lighthouse Suites 2411 Price Street, Pismo Beach Dogs only with a $50 fee. Up to two dogs Phone: 805-773-2411 Sea Crest Oceanfront Hotel 2241 Price St., Pismo Beach Phone: 800-782-8400
CAFES AND RESTAURANTS
BED AND BREAKFAST Creekside Bed & Breakfast Inn 5325 Vineyard Dr., Paso Robles Dogs only with a $25 fee. Phone: 805-227-6585 Creekside Inn 2618 Main Street, Cambria Dogs only. Allowed per space available with a $25 fee Phone: 805-927-4021 Heritage Inn Bed and Breakfast 978 Olive St., San Luis Obispo Dogs only with a $20 fee Phone: 805-544-7440 Inn Paradiso 975 Mojave Ln., Paso Robles Dogs and cats, $75 fee. Limited space Phone: 805-239-2800
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Bayside Cafe 10 State Park Rd., Morro Bay Phone: 805-772-1465
or some folks a family vacation includes bringing their pets too. The Central Coast has a multitude of places to bring your furry friends. Enjoy lodging, dining, beaches, wineries and hiking trails with the entire family. Knowing that your pet is welcome in advance allows for peace of mind.
Just Inn at Justin Vineyards and Winery 11680 Chimney Rock Rd., Paso Robles Small dogs only, $100 fee. Call first. Phone: 805-238-6932 Kaleidoscope Inn & Gardens 130 East Dana St., Nipomo Dogs and cats Phone: 805-343-9345 Petit Soleil 1473 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo Dog and cats $25 fee per pet Phone: 805-549-0321
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HOTELS AND MOTELS
Avila La Fonda 101 San Miguel St., Avila Beach Two medium size dogs, 50 lbs, with a $50 fee Phone: 805-595-1700 Bayfront Inn Morro Bay 1150 Embarcadero, Morro Bay All pets welcome up, to two with a $30 fee Phone: 805-772-5607
Blue Dolphin Inn 6470 Moonstone Beach Dr., Cambria Dogs and cat, $25 fee per pet Phone: 805-927-3300 Cambria Palms Motel 2662 Main St., Cambria Dogs only, $15 plus tax per night, two for $20 plus tax Phone: 805-927-4485 Cambria Pines Lodge 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria Dogs only with a $25 fee Phone: 805-927-4200 Cayucos Beach Inn 333 South Ocean Ave., Cayucos Dogs only with a $15 fee Phone: 805-995-2828 Cliffs Resort 2757 Shell Beach Rd., Pismo Beach Dogs only with a $50 fee. Dogs get special treatment. Phone: 805-773-5000
Big Sky Cafe 1121 Broad St., San Luis Obispo Phone: 805-545-5401 Blue Sky Bistro 699 Embarcadero, Morro Bay Phone: 805-772-8988 Creekside Garden Cafe 2114 Main St., Cambria Phone: 805-927-8646 Doc Burnstein’s Ice Cream Lab (they have Doggie Discs) 114 W. Branch St., Arroyo Grande Phone: 805-474-4068 Doc Burnstein’s Ice Cream Lab (they have Doggie Discs) 860 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo Phone: 805-548-1986 Dorn’s Original Breakers Café 801 Market Ave., Morro Bay Phone: 805-772-4415
Dutchman’s Seafood House 701 Embarcadero, Ste. E, Morro Bay Phone: 805-772-2269 Fin’s Restaurant 25 W. Grand, Grover Beach Phone 805-473-3467 Frankie’s and Lola’s Front Street Café 1154 Front St., Morro Bay Phone: 805-771-9306 Giovanni’s Fish Market 1001 Front St., Morro Bay Phone: 805-772-2123 Hoppe’s Bistro & Wine Bar 78 North Ocean Ave., Cayucos Phone: 805-995-1006
Sally Loo’s Wholesome Cafe 1804 Osos St., San Luis Obispo Phone: 805-545-5895 San Simeon Beach Bar and Grill 9520 Castillo Dr., San Simeon Phone: 805-927-4601 Sea Shanty Restaurant 296 S. Ocean Ave., Cayucos Phone: 805-995-3272 Zorro’s Cafe and Cantina 927 Shell Beach Rd., Pismo Beach Phone: 805-773-9676
BEACHES
Indigo Moon Cafe 1980 Main St., Cambria Phone: 805-927-2911
Cayucos State Beach Ocean Front Ave., Cayucos Phone: 805-781-5930
Las Cambritas Mexican Restaurant 2336 Main St. # B, Cambria Phone: 805-927-0175
Moonstone Beach - Cambria
Lido Restaurant The Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa, 2727 Shell Beach Rd. Phone: 805-773-8900 Lil Hut 1205 Embarcadero, Morro Bay Phone: 805-772-3488
Morro Bay State Park 60 State Park Road, Morro Bay Phone: 805-772-2560 Morro Strand Beach Hwy. 1 and 24th St., Cayucos Oceano Dunes State Park Oceano Phone: 805-773-7170
TRAILS Bishop Peak Patricia Trailhead 850 Patricia Dr., San Luis Obispo Black Hill Trail Morro Bay State Park Rd., Morro Bay Bob Jones City to the Sea Trail, Avila Beach El Chorro Regional Park 2990 Dairy Creek Rd., Highway 1, San Luis Obispo Phone: 805-781-5930 El Moro Elfin Forest North East end of Los Osos, 2 miles south of the city of Morro Bay in Los Osos, Laguna Lake Park and Trails 504 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo Phone: 805-781-7222 Mission San Miguel Arcangel 775 Mission St., San Miguel Phone: 805-467-2131 San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden 450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo Phone: 805-541-1400
WINERIES
Linn’s Easy as Pie Cafe 4251 Bridge St., Cambria Phone: 805-924-3050
Oceano Dunes SVRA Three miles south of Pismo Beach off Highway 1, Oceano Phone: 805-473-7220
Luna Red 1023 Chorro St., San Luis Obispo Phone: 805-540-5243
Olde Port Beach 3993 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach Phone: 805-595-2515
Madeline’s 788 Main St., Cambria Phone: 805-927-4175
Pismo State Beach 555 Pier Ave., Oceano Phone: 805-489-1869
Marisol at the Cliffs 2757 Shell Beach Rd., Pismo Beach Phone: 800-826-7827
Eos Winery 2300 Airport Way, Paso Robles Phone: 805-591-8050
Spooners Cove in Montana de Oro State Park Los Osos Phone: 805-528-0513
Moonstone Cellars 801 Main St., Cambria Phone: 805-927-9466
Mr. Rick’s 404 Front St., Avila Beach Phone: 805-595-7425
William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach/San Simeon Cove 750 Hearst Castle Rd., San Simeon Phone: 805-927-2020
It is recommended that you call the place you plan to stay at in advance as many have a limited number of rooms open to pets. Fees often apply to each night of your stay.
Pappy McGregor’s 11122 Pine St., Paso Robles Phone: 805-238-7070 Paso Robles Inn Steakhouse 1103 Spring St., Paso Robles Phone: 805-226-4925
Adelaida Winery 5805 Adelaida Rd., Paso Robles Eberle Winery 3810 W. Hwy. 46, Paso Robles Phone: 805-238-9607
Restaurants also have limited outside seating.
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NORTH COUNTY W
ake up at the historic Carlton Hotel in Atascadero and head over to A-Town Diner on El Camino for a family sized breakfast. Try the chicken fried steak, and be prepared to be hooked. Afterwards drive up to Cass Winery in the rolling, oak-studded hills between Paso Robles and Creston and enjoy an afternoon of winetasting on their 145-acre estate. They also have lunch options.
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For late afternoon fun, head back to Atascadero and take in the latest movie at the Galaxy Theater featuring stadium seating where you can also buy wine or beer. For authentic Mexican food head next door to Que Pasa restaurant where the menu offers something for everyone including shrimp burritos and tortas. A must have are the fajitas with Angus steak, chicken and shrimp.
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Paso Robles Casino
Connecting you to your community.
By Mark A. Diaz, Photos by Justin Stoner
yourcoastnews.com
yourbaynews.com
Avila Beach News
Y
ou don’t feel like you’re in Paso Robles. DJ Pablo Diablo is adding sick beats to ‘80s favorites under flashing LEDs. Bearded bartenders are slinging exotic rum drinks alight with blue flames. And two couples winning hand after hand at the 3-card poker table are cheering and yelling, “Don’s in the house! Woot, woot, woot!” This Don is Don Ezzell, co-owner of the renovated Paso Robles Casino. He gives the young couples a congratulatory thumbs up from his seat at a nearby table where he’s deep in tournament play with card-swarthy locals. The fun, free-for-all atmosphere is exactly how the brothers Don and Rob Ezzell designed it to be. The renovated casino and Tiki bar is at 1144 Black Oak Drive near one of the busiest intersections on the Central Coast – where the Highway 101 and 46 meet. The brothers also raised a new sign, signifying the new feel and look of their gaming facility. Visible from the freeway, the Las Vegasstyle sign is a declaration of the high-end refurbishment of the business.
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“[The sign] is emblematic of the changes we’ve made,” Don said. The brothers completely revamped the business in hopes to draw a different clientele, as well as to give professional players a break from the typical cardrooms. Card tables are legal in California because card games are considered a game of skill rather than mere chance, like roulette or slot machines. However, the casino is not only designed for professional players, the Ezzells have striven to attract patrons who have no interest in cards. “This is such a dramatically different business and facility,” said Don adding, “We’re very hopeful that a much nicer facility — including the bathrooms — is an attractive offering even for folks that have in the past gone to some pretty sketchy facilities.” The business leaned on Rob’s experience, a professional poker player for over 30 years, for design ideas that would appeal to the average patron and the experienced gamer. continued, page 24
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“We think there is a changing demographic with our own customer base,” said Don. The new bar, which takes approximately a quarter of the interior, was designed in a Caribbean theme with lanterns hanging from thickly coiled ropes and ambient lighting that reflects rows of glass bottles. It features an enormous selection of rum that goes far beyond the college Bacardi and coke mixture; in fact, the one rum the bar seems to lack is Bacardi. It does, however, feature drinks that can be set aflame and boasts of a rum shot that costs a cool $185. The lighting, designed by Acropolis, has 17 million illumination combinations. “Rum does transport you, that’s why we choose it,” said Don. Apart from the complete overhaul of the dining menu and bar, the brothers believe that it is the people that make the business. They searched throughout the county and beyond to find what they deemed are the best people to serve their patrons. “One of our business prerogatives was to hire really good people,” said Don. “We went to other bars and restaurants and talked to everybody we know and asked them who the best people are and we offered them a job.”
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The company also hopes to fill a niche with a late-night dining and entertainment experience in an area where things normally shut down around 9 p.m. Depending on the day of the week, the kitchen can be open as late as midnight. “If you don’t have a competitive customer experience, you really are in a difficult market even as things bump up,” said Don. There is, of course, something for the professional player. The casino features weekly tournaments with buy-ins from $5 to $250. The host of games offered includes blackjack, three card poker and Texas hold’em. The lounge also capitalizes on the popularity of movies such as the recent Molly’s Game, which is based on the true story of Molly Bloom who ran the world’s most exclusive high-stakes poker game. Commenting on the difficulty of sustaining a food and beverage business on the Central Coast, Don said, “…But here it is much more challenging. That’s why we have spent and invested so much in the facility, the food and beverage. The whole offering has to be better, stronger, more interesting, more inviting or we just can’t get repeat business, local business.” The business is opened from 4 to 12 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday and closed Monday. For more information, visit www. pasoroblescasino.com.
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Design and Artwork Beckons Locals and Travelers By Meagan Friberg, Photos courtesy of Allegretto Vineyard Resort
E
scaping to the tranquil setting of Allegretto Vineyard Resort by Ayres is comparable to spending time surrounded by the sounds of beautiful, soul-engaging music. Peace, harmony, and joy — all within minutes of downtown Paso Robles — await out-of-town visitors and locals at this multicultural-inspired oasis. The architectural design and the elements found throughout Allegretto all work together, and that’s of utmost importance to proprietor and visionary Douglas Ayres. So, what exactly does music have to do with proportions, dimensions, patterns, and angles when it comes to building and design? “The design of Allegretto reflects the architecture of music,” Ayres said. “Basically, I am creating a musical composition through the architecture. There has to be a
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harmonious feeling that the guests encounter going from space to space. I deal with proportions and dimensions, but when I create, I hear the music. When it’s singing, when it’s right, when all the little angles and lines and heights of every little detail are right, I feel it, and I feel at peace.” Allegretto Vineyard Resort is situated on 20 acres of vineyards and fruit-bearing orchards. It boasts 171 guest rooms and suites, some with fireplaces and optional balconies or patios, a 12,000-square-foot piazza, ballroom and event spaces, full-service boutique spa, pool and cabanas, manicured gardens, and walking paths. In addition, there is a French-inspired Abbey, hundreds of globally-curated artifacts, antiques, and collectable art. continued, page 28
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The term allegretto, according to the resort’s website, comes from a blend of Italian terms that technically describe a pace of music composition with cheerful or joyful tempo of 112-120 beats per minute, slightly faster than the human heartbeat. In English, allegretto means “with joy,” and that is one detail all who enter Allegretto Vineyard Resort are sure to experience. continued, page 30
The Pride of Paso Robles, CA
Call for Monday Holiday Hours Banquet Hall Available for Rent
805.238.9317 28
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ewarbirds.org spring | summer 2018
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Utmost Attention to Detail “The dimensions, the widths, of every single area and space, is of the utmost and critical importance,” Ayres continued. “Again, the design and décor of Allegretto is no different than when one tunes the strings of a musical instrument, or tunes a piano; I am tuning the art on the walls, the placement of the pattern of tiles and stone on the floors, how the crystals are hung on each chandelier. It’s about having the utmost depth of attention to every detail, beyond what you can even imagine, and it is pure joy.” Every facet of the architecture, décor, and artwork including paintings, photos, sculptures, and fountains, has a distinct role and place at Allegretto. Each was inspired, according to Ayres, by the places he visited during various travels and reflect a touch of different cultures. “So, as people come to Allegretto from various cultures — we have guests from all over the globe — there is something here for everyone,” Ayres said. Honoring the Local Community In addition, there are walls and walkways throughout the resort dedicated to the people of Paso Robles featuring
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historical moments, black and white photographs, and art in various mediums created by local artists. Ayres stresses the importance of honoring the local community and its people, and says being part of the community is essential. “The property is not just for the guests who stay with us or visit from out of the area,” he said, “it’s for the community. We have a lot of people that regularly eat at our restaurant, tour our grounds, bring their visiting guests to see our property and share a meal together. Allegretto is something special, unique, unusual — it’s absolutely what I had envisioned — and the people of Paso Robles have embraced us.” And why did Ayres decide to build in Paso Robles? He explained, “I fell in love with the landscape of the hillsides, the vineyards, and all of its elements. To me, when I visited the area, it felt very comfortable, and I felt at home. Paso Robles is not far from the coast, it’s close to my favorite places and, most importantly, it resonates with me and blends with my own heartbeat, I knew Paso Robles was a place I was going to end up at some point, there was just no question in my mind. I just knew; it was so clear to me and, now, here I am.” continued, page 32
Home furnishings at thrift pricing!
Clothing | Jewelry | Shoes | Housewares | Furniture Store Hours: Tues–Sat • 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Donation Hours: Tues–Sat • 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
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www.alslocounty.org 667 A Marsh Street • Downtown SLO
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Keeping the lavish feel of Allegretto, yet making it be inviting and welcoming to people of all walks of life is something Ayres and the attentive staff manage to do on a daily basis. Again, it’s all about ratios and proportions, according to Ayres, and it begins with the intention that visitors can feel comfortable to walk through the doors dressed in jeans and cowboy boots or something a bit more elegant. Allegretto is a place where all cultures can come in, feel at home, and leave with a feeling of bliss. It’s something Ayres said he hears over and over, “It just feels good here.” Stop by Allegretto Vineyard Resort, located at 2700 Buena Vista Drive in Paso Robles, and stroll the gardens and grounds, enjoy a meal at Cello, do some winetasting, or perhaps book a room and stay awhile. For more information, see allegrettoresort.com or call 805-369-2500.
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Wedding Venues
Hidden Springs Villa San Luis Obispo weddingslo.com Home Sweet Home Cottage and Ranch Templeton hshcottageandranch.com Lago Giuseppe Winery Templeton lagogiuseppe.com Mistura Restaurant Paso Robles misturarestaurants.com
For directions go to alltrails.com
Oyster Ridge Santa Margarita oysterridge.com San Luis Obispo Golf Country Club San Luis Obispo slocountryclub.com Santa Margarita Ranch Santa Margarita historicsantamargaritaranch.com Swallow Creek Ranch Cayucos swallowcreekranch.com Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort Avila Beach Sycamoresprings.com
COASTAL Avila Beach Golf Resort Avila Beach avilabeachresort.com Avila Lighthouse Suites Avila Beach avilalighthousesuites.com Coalesce Wedding Chapel Morro Bay coalescebookstore.com Dolphin Bay Resort Pismo Beach thedolphinbay.com Old Custom House Avila Beach oldcustomhouse.com Pismo Beach Golf Resort Grover Beach pismoweddings.com Point San Luis Lighthouse Avila Beach pointsanluislighthouse.org Sea Venture Beach Hotel & Restaurant Pismo Beach seaventure.com
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SeaCrest Hotel Pismo Beach seacrestpismo.com
Cambria Pines Lodge Cambria cambriapineslodge.com
The Cliffs Resort Pismo Beach cliffsresort.com
Casitas Estate Arroyo Grande casitasestate.com
Ventana Grill Pismo Beach ventanagrill.com
Cass Winery Paso Robles casswines.com
COUNTRY
Cayucos Creek Barn Cayucos Cayucoscreekbarn.com
Adelaida Vineyards & Winery Paso Robles adelaida.com Allegretto Vineyard Resort Paso Robles ayreshotels.com Beecham Ranch Los Osos beechamranch.com Bianchi Winery Paso Robles bianchiwine.com Blacklake Golf Resort Nipomo blacklake.com
Cypress Ridge Pavilion Arroyo Grande cypressridge.com Edna Valley Vineyard San Luis Obispo ednavalleyvineyard.com Green Place Estate Arroyo Grande theheritageestates.net
The Grace Maralyn Estate & Gardens Atascadero thegracemaralyn.com The Groves on 41 Templeton thegroveson41.com The Gardens at Peacock Farms Arroyo Grande thegardensatpeacockfarms.com
The River Oaks Pavilion Paso Robles riveroakshotsprings.com The Monday Club San Luis Obispo Themondayclubslo.org Victorian Estate Arroyo Grande victorianwedding.net
on 41 Award winning olive oil & tasting experience, offering a vacation retreat and private events in the beautiful Templeton countryside.
TheGrovesOn41.com 4455 East Highway 41, Templeton (805) 466-1542
Greengate Ranch & Vineyard San Luis Obispo greengateweddings.com Harmony Wedding Chapel Harmony harmonychapelca.com
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CALENDAR of Events
Photo by www.PhotobyVivian.com
Avocado & Margarita Festival (MB) Avomargfest.com AVILA BEACH (AB) ARROYO GRANDE (AG) ATASCADERO (AT) CAMBRIA (CM)
CAYUCOS (CY) LOS OSOS (LO) LOMPOC (LP) MORRO BAY (MB)
MAY Inspired Home & Garden Expo (SLO) Inspiredexpos.com Avila Beach Tequila Festival (AB) Avilabeachresort.com Strawberry Festival (AG) Arroyograndevillage.org/ strawberryfestival Pacific Breeze Concert Series (PB) Classiccalifornia.com Templeton Beer Fest Templetonbeerfest.com Morro Bay Art in the park (MB) Morrobayartinthepark.com Crusin Morro Bay Car Show (MB) Morrobaycarshow.com Paso Robles Wine Festival (PR) Pasowine.com SLO Jazz Festival (SLO) Slojazzfest.org Templeton Wine Festival (TM) Templetonwinefestival.com
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PASO ROBLES (PR) PISMO BEACH (PB) SAN LUIS OBISPO (SLO) TEMPLETON (TM)
Wine, Waves & Beyond (PB) Classiccalifornia.com Vintage Trailer Rally (PB) Classiccalifornia.com Warbirds, Wings and Wheels (PR) Ewarbirds.org
JUNE 31st Annual Afternoon of Epicurean Delights (PB) Capslo.org Pismo Beach Classic Car show (PB) Thepismobeachclassic.com Atascadero Wine Festival (AT) Atascaderochamber.org/wine-festival Roll Out the Barrels (SLO) Slowine.com Lompoc Valley Flower Festival (LP) Explorelompoc.com Firestone Walker Invitational Beer Fest (PR) Firestonebeer.com
JULY
AUGUST
4th of July Parade and Celebration (CY) Cayucoschamber.com
Classic California Golf Invitational (PB) Pismochamber.com
4th of July Fireworks Celebration (PB) Pismochamber.com Arroyo Grande Car Show (AG) Arroyovalleycarclub.com Central Coast Wine Classic (AB) Centralcoastwineclassic.org Festival Mozaic (SLO) Festivalmozaic.com
Party on Price (PB) Pismochamber.com
Rotary Home Tour (SLO) Slorotary.org The Central Coast Writers Conference (SLO) CentralCoastWritersConference.com
Trading Day, Kids Flea Market & Bike Rodeo (PR) Pasoroblesdowntown.org
Central Coast Pro Tennis Open (TM) Ttrprotennis.com
Winemaker’s Cookoff (PR) winemakerscookoff.com
OCTOBER
Morro Bay Art in the park (MB) Morrobayartinthepark.com
Mountain Men Encapment at La Purisma Mission (LP) Explorelompoc.com
Portuguese Festival (CY) Cayucoschamber.com
Morro Bay Art in the park (MB) Morrobayartinthepark.com
Seven Sisters Festival (LO) Sevensistersfest.com
Cruisin’ Weekend (AT) Atascadero.org/events
Summer Faire (CM) Cambriachamber.org
SEPTEMBER
Lavender Festival (PR) Pasoroblesdowntown.org
Inspired Home & Garden Expo (SLO) Inspiredexpos.com
Renaissance Festival (SLO) Ccrenfaire.com
A Taste of Downtown & Arte De Tiza (PR) Pasoroblesdowntown.org
Mid State Fair (PR) Midstatefair.com
Still Frothy Billabong Surf Festival (PB) Us.billabong.com
Arroyo Grande Valley Harvest Festival (AG) Agharvestfestival.com
Inspired Home, Garden & Gourmet Expo (PR) Inspiredexpos.com Atascadero Colony Days (AT) Colonydays.org Paso Robles Pioneer Day (PR) Pasoroblespioneerday.org Harvest Wine Weekend (PR) Pasowine.com Golden Oak Honey Festival (PR) Pasoroblesdowntown.org Templeton Oktoberfest (TM) Templetonoktoberfest.com Jubilee by the Sea (PB) Pismojazz.com/JubileeByTheSea
Concerts and Live Music Throughout the Summer ARROYO GRANDE arroyograndevillage.org ATASCADERO visitatascadero.com AVILA avilabeachpier.com avilabeachresort.com CAMBRIA facebook.com/pg/cambriaunplugged GROVER BEACH groverbeach.org LOS OSOS seapinesgolfresort.com bigbigslo.com PASO ROBLES pasoroblesdowntown.org vinaroblesamphitheatre.com PISMO BEACH classiccalifornia.com SAN LUIS OBISPO PLAZA downtownslo.com TEMPLETON PARK templetoncsd.org spring | summer 2018
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SLO County
Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, the Central Coast offers something for every one from long sandy beaches, to rugged coastlines, to quaint towns and expansive farmlands. Each locale offers a different way to shop, explore and relax.
Lake Naciemento
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San Simeon
Paso Robles 4
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Arroyo Grande • •
Explore the Historic Village of Arroyo Grande Farmer’s Market is every Saturday
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Locals Tip: Go Back In Time: don’t
miss the turn-of-the-century downtown Village of Arroyo Grande with its swinging bridge, roosters roaming the streets, specialty shops, and restaurants.
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Visit the Charles Paddock Zoo, 9100 Morro Rd. This 5-acre community zoo is home to hundreds of animal species from around the world. Play Frisbee golf at Heilmann Regional Park, 9400 El Bordo Ave.
Avila Beach •
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Fish off the pier without needing a license and bring home dinner. Make your sweet tooth happy at the Brown Butter Cookie Company, 98 N. Ocean Ave.
Atascadero 8
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Morro Bay 7
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San Luis Obispo 3
Avila Beach
Play a 9-hole game of golf at the Pismo State Beach Golf Course, 25 W Grand Ave. Try your luck at the Central Coast Casino, 359 W Grand Ave., offers poker players cash games and tournaments. For a schedule of events, visit slopoker.com.
Locals Tip:
Take a drive to Port San Luis Harbor and walk on the Harford pier. Dolphins, sea lions, and starfish are common sights. If you are lucky, whales might be in the area during their migration.
Santa Margarita Lake
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The Spoon Trade, 295 West Grand Ave., offers classic and modern food to please any palate. Try the fried chicken and waffles, and make sure to ask for the hot sauce.
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Lopez Lake
Pismo Beach 6
Grover Beach
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Arroyo Grande
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Oceano
Locals Tip:
Santa Margarita
Los Osos
Grover Beach •
Bike, or walk the City to the Sea Bob Jones Trail. Parking lot is located across Ontario Road. Enjoy the historic Point San Luis Lighthouse. You can kayak or take the trolley! Make tour reservations at www.pointsanluislighthouse.org.
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drinks at Old Cayucos Tavern, 130 N Ocean Ave. This western saloon offers a billiard tables and a card room with poker games every weekend.
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Templeton
Cayucos
Locals Tip: Go West: Sling back a few
Zip on over to Chalk Mountain Liquor and Deli, 9990 El Camino Real, for some Mojo potatoes while you gas up the car.
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Cayucos •
Locals Tip:
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Cambria
Atascadero •
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Nipomo
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Cambria • •
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Check out art galleries and specialty stores on Main St. Take the family to Moonstone Beach and search for moonstones in the sand or take a walk on the boardwalk.
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Locals Tip:
Little Known Fact: Singer Lady Gaga stopped by the Cambria Ale House, 2084 Main St, during the filming of her music video for G.U.Y. at Hearst Castle.
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Los Osos •
•
Walk the Elfin Forest Natural Area preserve Los OsosBaywood Park, 1103 Santa Lucia Ave. Hike Montana De Oro State Park, one of the most beautiful bluff top views and plenty of hiking trails for all levels.
Locals Tip:
Hit the local dive bar, The Merri Maker Tavern, 1301 2nd St. There, you’ll find cheap drinks, a pool table and on occasion enjoy karaoke night or live music.
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Morro Bay •
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Locals Tip:
Visit Morro Rock, a 581-foot volcanic plug right off the shore on Morro Beach. Walk around the bay area and look for otters floating in the water. Check out the Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History on State Park Rd. Spend about a half an hour learning about the area along with great interactive displays especially for children.
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Locals Tip:
San Luis Obispo •
Locals Tip:
Take a tour of The Luffa Farm, 1457 Willow Rd., and learn all the benefits of these natural sponges that are growing in one of the only such farms in the USA.
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Locals Tip:
Take the whole family to a show at the Great American Melodrama and Vaudeville located at 1863 Front St. For tickets and shows visit, americanmelodrama.com.
their mating, birthing, and molting season typically from Dec. to March at The Piedras Blancas rookery on Highway 1 seven miles north of San Simeon.
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Santa Margarita •
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Paso Robles • •
Enjoy libations at The Barrelhouse Brew, 3055 Limestone Way, has a brewery and beer garden that often has live music. Open to all ages. Wine Tasting at a variety of local wineries.
Locals Tip:
The Paso Roble Horse Park, 3801 Hughes Pkwy., holds events, classes, weddings, and shows with a portion of funds going to support handicapped and underprivileged children.
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San Simeon
Locals Tip: Marvel at the elephant seals during
Rent and Ride ATV on the dunes at the Oceano State Vehicular Recreation Area. Enjoy a bonfire on the beach on one of the only beaches that you can drive on.
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Locals Tip:
Hike Bishop Peak. This 20.013271 million-year-old volcanic plug is the tallest of the “Nine Sisters” that stretch to Morro Bay. Farmers’ Market takes over Downtown SLO on Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. It offers produce, food vendors, entertainment, and more.
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Oceano •
Rent surfboards, paddleboards, kayaks, wetsuits and commune with the ocean. Play a game of pool at Hot Shots Billiards or go bowling at Pismo Bowl, both are on Pomeroy Avenue.
What is a beach vacation if you can’t go on the beach? Now you can! Rent an all-accessible chair and hit the sand with California Coast Beach Power Chair! Visit californiacoastbeachpowerchair.com to reserve yours!
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Play 18-holes at Monarch Dunes Golf Course, 1606 Trilogy Pkwy. It’s a challenging course surrounded by dunes and eucalyptus trees. Visit the Dana Adobe, 671 S Oakglen Ave., This historic building was the home of Boston sea captain William Dana, who in 1837 was granted the 37,888-acre Rancho Nipomo.
Pismo Beach
Bring your binoculars to the Morro Estuary Natural Preserve and 800-acre wetland home to 250 bird species. The annual Bird Festival takes place on Martin Luther King Jr. weekend.
Nipomo •
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Have fun in the sun while fishing or boating at Santa Margarita Lake. Fly through the sky or take kayak tours at Margarita Adventures, 22719 El Camino Real.
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Several tours are available at Hearst Castle formerly owned by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst and home to Hollywood legends. Tour the Piedras Blancas Light Station, 15950 Cabrillo Highway, dates back to 1875 and is also a wildlife sanctuary.
Locals Tip:
Take the scenic drive to the historic Pozo Saloon. The Saloon offers food, drinks and live music, located at 90 West Pozo Rd. Pozo.
Templeton •
Leave your mark at Bubblegum Alley where for decades locals and visitors have been depositing their chewed gum on the 70foot long 15-foot high alley located at 733 ½ Hiiguera St.
Take a tour and enjoy tastings at Wild Horse Winery and Vineyards, 1437 Wild Horse Winery Ct, Templeton Rd. The tasting room is located in olive groves, vineyards and beautiful oak trees. Bring apples and carrots to fee the resident llamas.
Locals Tip:
Dance to live music every Wednesday evening June 6 through August 22. The park is located at 599 S. Main St., Templeton spring | summer 2018
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SAN LUIS OBISPO
Family Fun Avila Hot Springs 250 Avila Beach Dr. San Luis Obispo 805-595-2359 avilahotsprings.com Avila Valley Barn 560 Avila Beach Dr. San Luis Obispo 805-595-2816 avilavalleybarn.com B.J.’s ATV Rentals 197 Grand Ave. Grover Beach 805-481-5411 bjsatvrentals.com
Hearst Castle 750 Hearst Castle Rd. San Simeon hearstcastle.org Kayak Horizons 551 Embarcadero Morro Bay 805-772-6444 kayakhorizons.com Madonna Inn Trail Rides 100 Madonna Rd. San Luis Obispo 805-305-5470 oceanviewtrailrides.com
Bob Jones City to Sea Trail 7000 Ontario Rd. San Luis Obispo 805-544-9096
Margarita Adventures 22719 El Camino Real Santa Margarita 805-438-3120 margarita-adventures.com
Central Coast Aquarium 50 San Juan St. Avila Beach 805-595-7280 centralcoastaquarium.com
Mustang Water Park Lopez Lake 6840 Lopez Dr. Arroyo Grande 805-489-8898 mustangwaterpark.com
Central Coast Archery 12334 Los Osos Valley Rd. San Luis Obispo 805-439-1570 centralcoastarchery.com Charles Paddock Zoo 9100 Morro Rd. Atascadero 805-461-5080 charlespaddockzoo.org Dinosaur Caves Park 2701 Price St. Pismo Beach 805-773-7039 Elephant Seal Rookery 250 San Simeon Ave. San Simeon 805-924-1628 Farmer’s Kites & Surreys 1108 Front St. Morro Bay 805-772-0113
Pacific Dunes Riding Ranch 1205 Silver Spur Pl. Oceano 805-489-8100 pacificdunesranch.com Pismo Nature Center & Monarch Grove 400 S Dolliver St. Pismo Beach 805-773-7170 monarchbutterfly.org Port San Luis Harbor 3993 Avila Beach Dr. Avila Beach 805-550-3347 portsanluis.com Ravine Water Park 2301 Airport Rd. Paso Robles 805-237-8500 ravinewaterpark.com
Gopher Glen Farms 2899 Gopher Glen Way San Luis Obispo 805-595-2646
SLO Children’s Museum 101 Nipomo St. San Luis Obispo 805-544-5437 slocm.org
Great American Melodrama & Vaudeville 1863 Front St. Oceano 805-489-2449 americanmelodrama.com
SLO Creek Farms 6455 Monte Rd. San Luis Obispo 702-245-3135 slocreekfarms.com
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Sub Sea Tours 699 Embarcadero #9 Morro Bay 805-772-9463 subseatours.com Sun Buggy & ATV Fun 328 Pier Ave Oceano 866-728-4443 sunbuggy.com Sunset Drive In 255 Elks Ln. San Luis Obispo 805-544-4475 Vista Lago Adventure Park Lopez Lake Recreation 6820 Lopez Dr. Arroyo Grande 805-710-7970 vistalagoadventurepark.com Wally’s Bicycle Works Higuera St. San Luis Obispo 805-544-4116 wallysbikes.com Wheel Fun Rentals 630 Cypress St. Pismo Beach 805-650-7770 wheelfunrentals.com
Photo by Mark Nakamura
S
an Luis Obispo is the perfect destination for those craving adventure and sunny days. If you consider yourself to be an active person, start the morning with a hike on Madonna Mountain, or “Cerro San Luis.” This extinct volcano reaches an elevation of 1,300 feet and allows you to see all of San Luis Obispo because of the mountain’s central location! If you aren’t much of a hiker, take a stroll in Cal Poly’s “Architecture Graveyard,” out by the Poly Canyon Village student apartments and
along the Brizzioli Creek. These rolling hills of green house 15 design projects produced by former Cal Poly engineering and architecture students, and are able to be explored and climbed upon. Next, tour the iconic Madonna Inn with its rock interior and plethora of pink, and pet the horses that roam outside (maybe even go horseback riding if you’re up for it!). After you have worked up an appetite, try to catch Luna Red’s happy hour from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. every day of the week at their downtown location. The
restaurant is well known for their $5 sangria glasses and delicious $6 tapas. It is recommended to sit outside under the fairy lights with the warm San Luis Obispo air as the sun begins to set. Later, peruse all that downtown San Luis Obispo has to offer: local boutique shops, ice cream parlors, and bars. For your nightcap, check out SLO Brew to see if there’s live music and get your groove on, or go underground at Barrelhouse Brewing for a speakeasy experience complete with shuffleboard and beer flights. Photo courtesy of www.hercampus.com
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Adventure Aide: Hiking, Biking, Making Friends
Woolpert’s father, Mark, is a lifelong surfer and frequents Costa Rica to pursue his passion for the sport. Connor said that his dad instilled in him that life is worth living. So, it was only natural that Connor would devise a way to help others experience life to its fullest. “Really, the only thing that we will ever have in the end are the memories that we make,” said Connor. continued, page 46
By Mark A. Diaz, Photos Courtesy of Adventure Aide
H
ave you ever felt like doing something new and different, but did not know what to do? Well, there’s an app for that. Adventure Aide, co-founded by Connor Woolpert, is software that connects people to different experiences they might not normally be privy to and helps them to meet others with the same interests. The activities come in all shapes and sizes, such as, doing
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yoga under the stars or sandboarding the beach dunes or an introduction to mountain biking. The cost varies with each adventure, but at the time this article was written nothing was priced over $40. However, if someone chooses a paddle boarding adventure that may not be all that they do. The activity could include a lunch afterward. Woolpert says that a lot of merchants who offer adventures strive to make the experience memorable and unique.
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The app not only lists activities a person can do, it also asks if they want to become an Aide. Aides are people who facilitate adventures and share their particular passion with others. “The heart of everything we do is around people’s passion and trying to instill that life is meant to be lived, it’s not meant to be passed by,” said Connor. It is Connor’s opinion that there is a connection between a happy state of mind and a healthy body. He believes that a person taking the time to do what they love will lead to a healthier outlook on life and that will be reflected in their physical condition. “I think the next in step in health, in my opinion, is really happiness and how that plays into health,” he said. “Following your passion in a complete sense, it’s going to make you happier. It’s going to make you healthier.” Connor says that a major goal of his business is also about helping people build connections with others. The app asks the applicant to fill out a quick summary of their interests in the bio section. Users can view each other’s bios and see
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if they have like interests and explore other events likeminded people have tried. “It is beyond the physical activity, there is this human connection there,” said Connor. “That is something that is lacking in the twenty-first century. Our long-term goal is to create a human network of people who have actually met each other and actually experienced things together as part of a larger community.” Connor wants his business to motivate people to get away from their screens and out into the world. In a day and age where screen time equals money for the merchant, Adventure Aide is designed to keep people moving and not just sitting around browsing on their phones. The company earns its keep by taking a percentage of the cost of an activity, though there are some that are free of charge. “The thing that we love to talk about is that we want to build a technology that people get off of as fast as possible,” said Connor.
The most unique adventure available in Connor’s opinion is sandboarding on the dunes of Montana de Oro, located just outside the sleepy town of Los Osos. Jack Smith, who owns the skateboard museum in Morro Bay, offers the experience. In 2003, and at the age of 46, Smith skateboarded across the continental United States in only 21 days. It was the third time he had accomplished the amazing feat. This time he did it to raise funds and awareness for Lowe syndrome, the genetic disease that claimed his teenage son’s life. Who takes these adventures? Connor has found that there is no specific demographic for people who want to take a chance and participate. They had originally assumed that Adventure Aide would attract young business professional
from 18 to 25 years of age who had a disposable incomes. However, the team has been surprised and pleased with the results. Participants, both consumers and Aides, have come in all shapes and sizes. “It’s been all over the board,” said Connor, “The consumer side it’s pretty multifaceted. It is a lot of young people, but it’s also a lot of tourists. The idea is that we want to instill that everyone has the opportunity to experience new things.” For now, the adventures are based in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, but Connor’s vision is for Adventure Aide to extend globally. It is his hope that someday an adventurer will be able to book something that might only take 45 minutes or something as extensive as a trip to Peru. spring | summer 2018
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Watch Taste Buds!
Get Your Drink On W
Weekly on Charter cable, the CW on Mon & Fri at 1pm, Sundays on KSBY or at www.TasteBuds.TV
hether you are a tourist or a local, sometimes and adult beverage is just what the doctor ordered. The team at Simply Clear Marketing and Media picked a few of their favorite spots to imbibe.
The Siren in Morro Bay has developed into my favorite local watering hole. The Siren has an eclectic mix of patrons, pubstyle food, local wines and beers and, most importantly, to me, quality ginger beer for my favorite drink, a Moscow Mule. They have a great music lineup, fantastic local bands like the JD Project and Soundhouse, as well as lively tribute bands and touring bands. Whether it’s me and my man, a group of friends or a quick drink after work, I always enjoy the live music and a Moscow Mule at The Siren. Tina Mitchell, controller
I enjoy going to a local winery. My favorites are: • Kelsey Sea Canyon in San Luis Obispo. They have free roaming peacocks, live music and are pet friendly. • Edna Valley Vineyard in San Luis Obispo because of its beautiful views. • Baileyana, Tangent and True Myth Tasting Room in San Luis Obispo because they have a fun bocce ball court and a great picnic area! Jessica Micklus, sales manager
My favorite place to get a drink is at SLO Brew Rock because of the atmosphere; there’s life-size “beer pong” with volleyballs and buckets. You can usually listen to a local musician and sit on the outside patio. The Cali-Squeeze is their blood orange beer and it’s smooth and fruitful! Lanie Woods, marketing assistant
My favorite adult beverage is whiskey on the rocks at McCarthy’s Irish Pub in San Luis Obispo. I love the casual and cozy environment, digital jukebox, and it’s a guarantee I will run into a friend at any time of day. I spent my 21st birthday at McCarthy’s and have been going there ever since! It’s the place to go after every event, movie or show, and the prices can’t be beat. Leah Castelein, web designer
For a truly rustic, south of the border experience you can’t beat Fish Gaucho in Paso Robles. Not only is it a hopping restaurant with delicious dishes of fishes, they’ve got a great assortment of unique drinks. I particularly liked the Dark Side of the Moon last time I was there. The drink includes mezcal, fernet branca, lemon, activated charcoal, chartreuse, and absinthe. Lots of flavor with a nice finishing punch. Justin Stoner, managing editor – Coast News
A great place to grab a drink and enjoy a beautiful view on the Central Coast is Rose’s Bar and Grill in Morro Bay. The staff is very friendly and always delivers on top-notch service. The ocean view with Morro Rock is beautiful, especially during sunset. Their bar offers a great list of a house specials and solid beers on tap. If you are hungry, their fish & chips are a favorite! This is a very laid back place to go if you want to feel like a local. Karita Harrskog, event and marketing assistant
Black Sheep Bar & Grill is my favorite spot for a drink and some comfort food. There is a great warm atmosphere inside and a patio for the beautiful San Luis Obispo days. All the wait staff and bar staff are amazing and always nice. The patrons tend to be local and a more adult crowd (if you are trying to avoid the standard college bars). No one can deny that they also have the best Mac N Cheese in town! Kelley Redmon Braga, operations and event manager One of my favorite dining establishments to take guests is The Quarterdeck Restaurant in Arroyo Grande. There are quite a few dishes I order regularly as I love fresh seafood and great sauces. I recommend: Steamed Alaskan King Crab with Butter or the Sesame Bronzed Scallops with Garlic Herb Potatoes and Spicy Slaw, or the Herb & Garlic Lobster Mac n’ Cheese with Toasted Panko Crust!. Also their happy hour drink specials can’t be beat. Zorina Ricci, advertising executive
Being a reporter, my schedule tends to be more fluid and if I get a chance to sneak away from the 24-hour news cycle, I drop by Que Pasa, a local Mexican restaurant located in Atascadero. The eatery is conveniently next door to a movie theater. Tuesdays are for tacos at Que Pasa and they serve them up for $1.50 a pop. Tuesday also happens to be discount night at the theater, so I generally eat a couple of tacos, drink a $4 margarita and walk on down to see a $6.50 movie. A perfect way to unwind on a reporter’s salary. Mark Diaz, reporter
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Taste Buds is a foodie TV show hosted by Teri Bayus showcasing the best restaurants in the area!
EMOTIONS PHOTOGRAPHY by Vivian Krug Cotton art | event | family | pets | photo gifts commercial | real estate | business photobyvivian@gmail.com facebook.com/Emotions photobyvivian.com 805.458.3321 spring | summer 2018
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Reservoir Flats This loop delivers fine ocean and canyon views as it explores the bottom of Islay Creek Canyon in Montaña de Oro State Park. 2 miles
Hiking Trails
Turtle Rock This easy out and back hike reaches a short rise between Black Hill and Cerro Cabrillo in Morro Bay State Park. 2.1 miles
For directions go to alltrails.com
Valencia Peak This out and back hike summits a 1,347foot peak with panoramic views over Montaña de Oro State Park. 3.7 miles
SAN LUIS OBISPO Bishop Peak This out and back hike summits the tallest of the Nine Sisters for excellent views over San Luis Obispo. 3.5 miles Cerro San Luis This hike summits one of the Nine Sisters just west of downtown San Luis Obispo. 4 - 5 miles
Photo by Mark Nakamura
NORTH COAST Bluff Trail This level out and back hike passes tide pools and beaches along a picturesque rocky coastline in Montaña de Oro State Park. 1.2 - 3.4 miles Coon Creek This out and back hike ventures up a coastal canyon at the south end of Montaña de Oro State Park. 5 miles Cerro Alto This semi-loop bags the 2,624-foot summit of Cerro Alto, plus a scenic ridge south of the peak. 5.35 miles Cerro Cabrillo This tough out and back hike summits the highest mountain in Morro Bay State Park, a 911-foot member of the Nine Sisters. 2.5 miles Eagle Rock This loop in El Chorro Regional Park climbs to Eagle Rock Viewpoint for an overview of the valley between SLO and Morro Bay. 2.4 miles Elfin Forest Natural Reserve This easy boardwalk loop explores a pygmy forest on the edge of Morro Bay. 1 mile
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Headlands Trail This gradual lollipop loop in Harmony Headlands State Park crosses a coastal valley to reach picturesque ocean bluffs on the rugged coast between Cayucos and Cambria. 4.5 miles Los Osos Oaks State Natural Reserve This short hikes explores a pygmy forest of coast live oaks, providing a shady level stroll on overlapping loops. 0.75 - 1.5 miles Hazard Peak Trail This out and back hike in Montaña de Oro State Park ascends coastal ridges to a 1,076-foot summit with panoramic views. 6 miles Hazard Peak Islay Creek Loop This loop in Montaña de Oro State Park continues beyond Hazard Peak deeper into the Irish Hills before circling back to the coast on Islay Creek Trail. 9.2 miles Islay Creek This easy out and back hike in Montaña de Oro State Park follows a wide trail up a coastal canyon flanked by thousand-foot peaks, passing a small waterfall to reach an abandoned barn. 6 miles Moonstone Beach Boardwalk This out and back hike crosses a boardwalk along a charming Cambria beach in Hearst San Simeon State Park. 2.85 miles
Morro Dunes Ecological Reserve This lollipop loop serves up panoramic views over Morro Bay as it climbs from Los Osos to Montaña de Oro State Park. 2.6 miles Morro Rock via Morro Strand This level stroll starts from Coisters Park, crosses Morro Strand State Beach to reach Morro Rock. 1 - 3.5 miles
Cerro San Luis from Laguna Lake Park This out and back hike summits one of the Nine Sisters just west of downtown San Luis Obispo. 5.7 miles Felsman Loop Trail This loop crosses oak, sagebrush, and grass-covered slopes around the base of Bishop Peak, providing excellent views of that notable rocky summit and its San Luis Obispo surroundings. 2.7 miles
Lemon Grove Trail This easy loop visits a historic lemon grove on the eastern slopes of Cerro San Luis. 2.2 miles Islay Hill This out and back hike summits San Luis Obispo’s easternmost Morro. 1.8 miles Poly Canyon This lollipop loop hike visits an architectural village designed by Cal Poly students at the base of the Santa Lucia Mountains. 2.5 miles Reservoir Canyon This steep hike passes a waterfall and a collection of junk sculptures en route overlooking San Luis Obispo. 5.35 miles South Hills Ridge Trail This out and back hike visits the top of a cluster of hills near downtown San Luis Obispo, offering fine views over the city. 1.5 miles Stenner Creek This out and back hike goes up Stenner Creek Canyon past a small waterfall and views of Bishop Peak to a collection of freeride bike trails. 3.7 miles
SOUTH COUNTY Bob Jones Bike Trail This easy round trip hike or ride follows San Luis Obispo Creek to Avila Beach. 5 miles Pismo Preserve 900-acre nature preserve open to the public for docent-led hikes, runs, bike rides & horse rides. Point San Luis Lighthouse (Pecho Coast) This docent-led hike crosses scenic coastal bluffs to reach the historic lighthouse on Point San Luis. Ontario Ridge Trail This loop explores the coast between Shell Beach and Avila Beach, on and below a 700-foot ridge. 2.8 miles Sycamore Crest Trail This out and back hike ascends the north slope of Ontario Hill to a scenic ocean view perch. 1.75 - 3.25 miles
Sydney Street Trail This hike climbs a steep rugged trail to a stone seating area at a panoramic summit. 2.8 miles
Johnson Ranch Loop This loop explores rolling hills in a grassy open space just south of San Luis Obispo. 2.5 - 3.7 miles
Black Hill This out and back hike to the summit of one of the Nine Sisters reaches 360-degree views over Morro Bay. 0.6 miles Oats Peak This out and back hike reaches a panoramic summit that looks down over Montaña de Oro State Park. 8.25 miles Piedras Blancas This out and back hike ventures up the coast from the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery to Piedras Blancas Light Station.3.2 - 4.2 miles Point Buchon This short scenic loop or longer out-andback hike explores the beautiful coastline south of Montaña de Oro State Park. 1.33 - 6.8 miles Portola Point This loop explores a short hill in Morro Bay State Park just east of Morro Estuary with an easy-to-reach ocean overlook. 2 miles
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SOUTH COUNTY
pleasures AN abundance of
ON THE CENTRAL COAST
Explore Pristine Beaches • Bike or Walk the Bob Jones Trail Kayak the Expansive Port of San Luis Stroll the Quiet Oceanfront Village of Avila Beach Enjoy 10 Exceptional Local Wineries
SYCAMORE MINERAL SPRINGS RESORT Newly Renovated One-Bedroom Spa Suites with Private Balcony Hot Tubs & Fireplaces Spa & Wellness Center • Gardens of Avila Restaurant UPCOMING
Handcrafted Tequila Tasting Thurs., April 19, 6-8 pm • $55 Reservations: 805.540.3638 or lauren@smsr.com
Photo by Photobyvivian.com
805.595.7302 | SYCAMORESPRINGS.COM 1215 AVIL A BEACH DR., SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA
T
he Five Cities, as the locals call it, is made up of Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Grover Beach, Shell Beach and Oceano, although there is some argument on that. Grab your friends and family and enjoy ocean views, quaint towns and great food. Wake up in the new Inn at the Pier in Pismo Beach, walk to the waterfront and watch surfers catching morning waves or catch some rays relaxing on the sand. Next, head out on Highway 1 a short distance over to the Monarch Buttery Grove during late October through
February and view clusters of these majestic insects on a migratory stop. If you like a hearty breakfast, head over to Lil’ Bits Café in Grover Beach — don’t let the name fool you, they serve big plates, and you can probably skip lunch. After filling up, take a drive to the historic Village of Arroyo Grande where roosters are often spotted roaming the streets. Explore the shops and jump up and down on the Swinging Bridge. While in town, be sure to try some sweet treats at Doc Burnstein’s Ice Cream Lab. Inquire in advance to take
a tour and learn about handcrafted ice cream. If wine tasting is your thing, drive out to rural Arroyo Grande to Talley Vineyards, they close at 4:30, so plan accordingly. For dinner, drive back to Grover Beach and stop by the Spoon Trade for excellent seasonal food with sustainability in mind. Now it is time for some singing and laughing. Take in a vaudeville show at the Great American Melodrama in Oceano where booing and hissing at the actors on stage is encouraged.
Pismo Beach. Literally.
Beach by Day. Hot Tub by Night. Put your toes in the sand at Pismo Beach’s only full service beachfront hotel. Enjoy nearby attractions, including the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove, Edna Valley wineries, and historic downtown San Luis Obispo.
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On the Beach • Ocean View Rooms • Private Balconies with Hot Tubs In Room Fireplaces • Beach Weddings • Ocean View Special Event Space Full Ocean View Restaurant • Walk to Downtown Pismo Beach 805.556.8200 | SeaVenture.com 100 Ocean View Ave. Pismo Beach, CA
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For directions go to alltrails.com
W
hen in South County, make sure you take some time to explore these amazing beaches. You can watch the whales breaching in Avila Beach, explore the tide pools in Shell Beach, ride horses on the sand at Oceano State Beach, and enjoy stand-up paddling in Pismo Beach. However you spend your day, you’ll definitely want to stay for the sunset.
Best Beaches to Explore Photos by Photobyvivian.com
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AMAZING BREAKFAST & SEAFOOD ENTREES
Photo by Mark Nakamura
for Lunch & Dinner Starting at 11 am for Breakfast 7 am - 11am
Kiddos on the Go Go W
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By Mark A. Diaz
ondering what to do or where to go to keep your kids entertained? Everybody knows that there are plenty of things to do on the Central Coast, however, finding out what is going on can be a hassle at times, and if you add kids into the equation, it makes the problem even more difficult. Fortunately, there is a website that strives to be the informational hub of kidcentered activities in San Luis Obispo County – kiddosagogo. com Heather Young, CEO and mother, combs through the information, gathering it piecemeal, and posts the information to Kiddos A Go-Go, making it a one-stop shop for parents and guardians to find things to do with their little and no-so- little ones. Young purchased the business in March of last year from Christy Byham who began the site in 2011. Young was drawn to the idea because being a mother, she was well aware of how difficult it can be to find something to do with kids. “I liked the idea because I know there are so many parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles that are looking to do things with kids in the area,” said Young. Young also works part-time at the United Methodist Church in Atascadero where she plans events and is also a REVEAL the central coast of california
freelance writer. She said that her background as a writer has helped her gather and search for events to share. However, there are only so many hours in the day and she says it is a great help when people let her know what is going on in the county. There is a green button provided under the “Events Calendar” page entitled “Submit Event” that provides a place where those wanting to share an event can help spread the word. “Pretty much everything gets approved,” said Young, “if it’s an event for families and children within San Luis County and the Santa Maria area.” Young admits that the business is more of a labor of love than a moneymaker. She considers the website to be a community service. “It’s more of a hobby than a job for me,” said Young, “there is not as much going into it as I would like because I have to do other work.” She went on to say, “I’m not a salesperson, I’m a writer, but I do it because I think it’s important for people to know what’s going on, and it helps other events and nonprofits to get the word out about what they are doing.” continued, page 59
Serving Delicious & Unique Traditional Breakfasts at a Price That Can’t Be Beat! Y HOUR P P A H Y L I DA TARTING S S L A I C E SP N AT 4 PM I AR YB OUR COZ
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DAVID SKINNER Cell: 805-459-8798
david@davidandkarenpresent.com CalBRE #00552094
KAREN SKINNER Cell: 805-550-9001
karen@davidandkarenpresent.com CalBRE #01873847
Visit our website for Shell Beach listings & Information!
www.davidandkarenpresent.com
763 Shell Beach Road, Shell Beach, CA
Kiddos covers the entire county from the Paso Robles Children’s Museum to an indoor play structure in Templeton (that only cost $5 per child with a $10 max for families!) all the way to the Exploration Station in Grover Beach and beyond. Young has gathered information and locations on all the farmers’ markets, movie theaters, parks, and libraries throughout the county. There is even a list of “U-Pick” farms in the area, where kids grab a bucket and gather their own fruit and vegetables. She also does her best to provide an exhaustive record of all the concerts and special events that the area has in spades. “I can’t believe how many concerts and events there are, as soon as I think I have it complete, I find another event,” said Young. “There is definitely a lot to do for families and children in our county.” The website lists 16 family-friendly wineries that have things that kids can do while mom and dad sample some wine. According to the website, the beautiful hilltop location at Four Sisters Ranch includes lots of room to run and play, bocce ball courts, a horseshoe pit, lawn bowling, ring toss, and lots of snacks and non-alcoholic beverages for sale. Young writes a blog for the site that features things to do and upcoming events and holidays to help families plan. Easter is right around the corner and with it spring break. Stay at home parents who are still reeling from a long winter
break can peruse the sight and find something for the kids to do and, in some cases, get them out of their hair. To help the working mom and dads, Young’s most recent blog also gives a link to search the CAPSLO referral system to aid in the search for daycare. One of the events that Young looks forward to every year is the Atascadero Colony Days where Sunken Gardens is transformed into a tent city where residents dress in late 1800s garb and celebrate and instruct visitors about the days of yore. For more information, visit Kiddosagogo.com
From the Beaches to the Vineyards and everywhere in between… Serving the entire Central Coast, Since 1978
Real Estate Sales
While You’re Away Home Care
Worldwide Relocation Services
Full-Service Property Management
www.FarrellSmyth.com
Heart of SLO: 21 Santa Rosa Street, Suite 100, San Luis Obispo ~ 805.543.2172 Village of AG: 110 E. Branch Street, Arroyo Grande ~ 805.904.6616
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I love to show off our Central Coast spectacular views to my guests, so I take them the new swanky Inn at the Pier hotel. It’s classy inside and out. The roof top deck is the place to be right before sunset. It’s truly a sight to see and photograph. The food and drinks are great and they even have a pool up top! It’s in the heart of Downtown Pismo Beach across from the famous Harry’s Nightclub & Bar.
Coming originally from Northern California, I always get people visiting from out of town. The thing we almost always do is a hike up Black Hill in the Morro Bay Golf Course. The trail is dog friendly, and is pretty short (about ¼ mile) so it can accommodate most ages and abilities. The end of the trail awards ocean views from Los Osos to Cayucos. Kelley Redmon Braga, Operations and Event Manager
Zorina Ricci, advertising executive
When anyone comes to visit me from out of town, especially outside of California, I like to take them on a drive up Highway 1. The small coastal towns along the Central Coast are absolute treasures: Los Osos, Morro Bay, Cayucos, and Cambria. My favorite part of the drive is when the road begins to get closer to the coast and the views of the Pacific open up even more. My final destination is usually to San Carpoforo Beach, which is always quiet and peaceful. The coastline is rugged and there are only a handful of people there, if any at all. That alone is the most special gift I could offer someone visiting from out of town.
Photo by www.PhotosbyVivian.com
Where the Locals Go I
f you live in San Luis Obispo County, visitors become more frequent because of all that the area has to offer from beaches to shopping to hanging out. The team at Simply Clear Marketing and Media picked their favorite spots to take out of town visitors.
When I have guests who come from out of town, I usually just take them around downtown SLO. Specifically, Barrelhouse is a great spot because of the underground speakeasy vibe. Not to mention, they have a plethora of games and shuffleboard. It’s a really cool atmosphere in the heart of downtown SLO. Lanie Woods, marketing assistant
When guests come in from out of town, I like to take them to the Village of Arroyo Grande and Avila Beach. I grew up in these places, so it is fun to show visitors how quaint and beautiful our area is. It’s always fun to walk across the Swinging Bridge in the Village, have some pizza at Klondike’s and watch a sunset in Avila Beach. Leah Castelein, web designer
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I take friends and family out on Highway 46 where there are several beautiful tasting rooms to explore. For a serene setting with a gorgeous outdoor patio area and shady gazebos try Castoro Cellars on Bethel Road off of 46. Justin Stoner, Managing Editor, managing editor Coast News
I take my guests to Avila Beach and start at the Avila Valley Barn to feed the goats and various other animals. It’s a great place to buy some fresh fruit and roasted corn on the cob. After that, we head to the Harford Pier in the hopes of spotting sea lions and seals lounging about. Theresa-Marie Wilson, executive editor – Simply Clear Marketing & Media
Rose Cutrer, marketing executive
When we have guests visit from out of town, we always try to take them out on the Tiki Boat Cruise with Lost Isle Adventures in Morro Bay. It is a great way to get on the water and see the view of the bay and the sea life from a different perspective. It’s a fun thing to do mid-day or right before dinner with a group of family or friends. You get to cruise the bay within an hour, the staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the area, and it’s a different way to have a cocktail and enjoy the scenery. The guided tour of the harbor is very affordable and the Sunset Cruise is especially worthwhile since the sunset on the water is absolutely amazing. Tina Mitchell, controller
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Top Local Restaurants
1. ATARI-YA IN SANTA MARIA
Being a fresh fish institution for more 32 years, Atari-ya was a hip sushi bar before it was trendy. They have always offered traditional sushi, Japanese delicacies and at the helm the petulant and original Keiko Hongo. Sit at the sushi bar and asked what is fresh, they are honest and have the best albacore anywhere. Everything is exceptional especially the Temaki sushi of spicy scallops with tobiko, radish sprouts, and Sriracha mix. Nigiris of Yellow Tail, Salmon, and Tuna, and Snapper should be followed by Tamago, as Atari-Ya is the only Sushi bar that makes its own Tamago. The Japanese food is authentic. Every dish is remarkable. Don’t let the neighborhood scare you; magic is waiting behind those doors. Located at 1551 Stowell Center Plaza in Santa Maria.
2. BLUE MOON IN AVILA BEACH
At its culinary helm is Chef Jose Dahan the genius behind Et Voila, that left our sandy shores for Europe and has now returned. The children’s menu is as alluring as the main, including potato chip encrusted chicken with a magical ranch that had a hint of Dijon. The Country Pâté is a mixture of cooked duck liver and fat then minced into a spreadable paste. This was encrusted with herbs and served with sliced cornichons and grilled baguette slices. The salad was an Organic Red Quinoa Salad with red and yellow peppers alongside cranberries and roasted pepitas. Try the Steak Tartare with cornichons and grilled baguette slices; it was a favorite. Another favorite, the Grilled Flat Iron Steak, ordered rare with peppercorns and a cognac sauce laid over Gratin Dauphinois (fancy potatoes au gratin), was the pinnacle of dinning. This impeccably prepared steak with the comfort of sliced potatoes and Gruyere cheese was delectable. At Blue Moon Over Avila, you get a rotating menu of seasonal and signature dishes along with imported beer and wine selections designed to impress and satisfy the most discriminating tastes. Blue Moon Over Avila is located at 460 Front Street in Avila Beach.
By Teri Bayus
S
mall restaurants feature some of the most passionate chefs that have honed their craft and put their personalities into their restaurants. Most are family run, and it is not unusual to see children coming out of the kitchen. This makes for an intimate meal and the great feeling of supporting local small businesses.
3. SOMM’S KITCHEN IN PASO ROBLES
Somm’s Kitchen brings sommelier Ian Adamo’s love of exceptional dining and wine education together in a warm, welcoming space. This isn’t your typical restaurant experience. Ian personally serves each guest from the center of a beautifully curved granite counter. The goal each night is to share edible ideas that evoke a sense of place, culture, and tradition accented with a bit of whimsy. The first item that caught my eye and palette was the Tortilla Española, a specialty tapa from Spain with potatoes, onion, and eggs. The simplicity was brilliant. Next, we tried the Gambas al Ajillo, shrimp with a garlic sauce and the Pâté de Campagne, this simple terrine was served with cornichons, mustard and sliced rustic bread. After we went for the Charcuterie and Cheese platters with a variety of ingredients including Smoked Duck with cherries, Coppa Dolce with hazelnuts and a Foie Gras Torchón with pistachios and orange. I would recommend this be a go-to place to impress foodies. Somm’s Kitchen is located at 849 13th Street in Paso Robles. continued, page 64
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6. MINT + CRAFT IN SAN LUIS OBISPO
4. FAY’S FUSION IN PISMO BEACH
This husband and wife make a tremendously lovely team who make yummy dishes that are unique to the area. They make all sauces, and even the Boba tapioca is made fresh there. The Mandarin Firecracker Fries with wasabi peas and hoisin ketchup are string fries with the roasted pepper dusting. The Jasmine green tea was perfectly brewed, and they had taro milk tea. The most original dish is the Asian Sliders. These were on boa buns (a steamed yeasty bun with the texture of clouds). They were stuffed with succulent pork, Asian slaw with house-made mandarin sauce. The sauce is lightly spread on the outside too with a sprinkling of sesame. We finished by sharing the Crispy Chicken Rice Plate with sesame chicken, bell peppers and onions added. We added some house-made chili sauce for heat and enjoyed a sweet and savory sauce with the sticky rice. The Assorted Gourmet Dumplings were 12 delectable pockets of savory including shrimp, chicken, and vegetables then steamed and finished on the pan. When you love dumplings, it’s hard to share. Served with homemade Asian slaw and a chili pepper dipping sauce, it is a culinary dream come true. Fay’s Fusion is located at 220 Hinds Avenue in Pismo Beach.
5. KITCHENETTE IN TEMPLETON
The perfect brunch spot with food so good I could eat there every day. Croque- Monsieur, a baked or fried, boiled ham and cheese sandwich, is a go-to. The dish originated in French cafés and bars as a quick snack. A Croque-Madame is a version of the dish topped with a fried egg with country bread; ham and Gruyere cheese with a perfectly cooked egg on top and is my favorite sandwich in the world. The best pancakes anywhere in the known universe are the Ricotta Pancakes filled with dragon spring farm blueberries and a hint of Meyer lemon smothered in grade A Maple syrup. They are renowned around the country and have been featured in many foodie magazines and blogs, and worth every accolade. The Turkey Bánh Mì, with country pork pâté, pickled carrots, cucumber, and herbs, with a house Sriracha mayo, was my favorite. My husband Gary liked the Pork Short Rib Burrito, a huge flour tortilla stuffed with savory pork, accompanied by avocado, cabbage, cowboy pinquito beans, and delectable fruit salsa. The most memorable was the Slow Roasted Lamb Dip sandwich with pimiento goat cheese and sweet caramelized onions. This sandwich was a classic French dip’s big American brother on flavor steroids. The Kitchenette is located at 105 South Main Street in Templeton.
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The fast-casual menu of Mint+Craft sources high-quality local ingredients for breakfast as well as lunch toasties, cassoulet-inspired dinner dishes, fresh deli goods, pastries, and meals made to go or enjoyed on the open-air patio. The Salade Nicoise is as pleasing to the eye as the taste buds a beautiful combination of green beans, potatoes, cherry tomatoes, onion-caper relish, dukkah crusted and seared rare albacore, soft boiled egg, house marinated olives. Sitting outside on the patio with a crisp Gewürztraminer wine, you are instantly transported to the City of Lights. The delectable Monte Cristo with an egg battered brioche, stuffed with baked ham, Swiss cheese, Dijon, micro mustard sprouts, with a bottle of crisp rosé this is flawlessness. The Saigon Sandwich with spicy pickles, fresh herbs, nuoc mam (a Vietnamese fish sauce), sambal (shrimp paste) aioli on Cubano roll while with the Market Vegetable Cassoulet, a warm, inspired clay pot of heirloom bean and market vegetable stew with seasoned breadcrumbs. The sandwich is spicy and dense, the perfect amount of pork belly for a savory and tart combination. Try this with the roasted white beets, pecan and goat cheese salad. Mint+Craft café is an exceptional choice for lunch in downtown SLO, and it has an assortment of grab and go items such as non-alcoholic beverages, local cheese, fresh produce, packaged snacks, as well as, wine and beer. Mint+Craft Café and Mint+Craft is located at 848 Monterey Street in San Luis Obispo.
7. MISTURA IN PASO ROBLES
Mistura - The ah-ha moment of an idea, the touch of a loved one, the taste of new food that opens your senses, these are the fabric of a life well lived. Chef Nicola Allegretta is one of those rare artists, and his new offering, Mistura, a Peruvian restaurant, is his best canvas to date. Favorites include Habla Causita, a Trio of Causas that is a distinctly Peruvian dish with seasoned whipped cold potatoes crowned with wild shrimp, king crab and Ahi tuna tartare. The Anticuchos de Carretilla, grilled natural beef heart marinated with aji panca is late night Peruvian street food that is exceptional. The Alpaca Carpaccio is thinly sliced and served with an aji amarillo, sliced heirloom cherry tomatoes, avocado with a swirl of aji verde. They have a “fajita’s” type dish and empanada’s for the less adventurous, but everything is superb. Mistura is located at 700 Clubhouse Drive in Paso Robles.
8. CHIPWRECKED IN PISMO BEACH
Sarah Paddack is the creative chef behind Chipwrecked in Pismo Beach where she sells gourmet potato chips, homemade dips (called tugboats), sandwiches, salads, and soups. Sarah takes the potato from the dirt to perfectly fried exquisite pairings of flavor, made fresh to order at her restaurant in downtown Pismo. She does catering events and has designed chip pairings with many local wineries. She was featured in Sunset Magazine as a top place to stop in Pismo and was on season one of Taste Buds. Her passion has always been to bring together unique flavors and serve food to family and friends. continued, page 66
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9. HOUSE OF JUJU IN MORRO BAY
With a perfect view of the waterway and Anchor Park, House of JuJu has the location part right of the picture-perfect dining equation. But then you taste their hamburger, and they have everything dead-on. Try the Dragon Lady Teriyaki Slaw with a tap of the hot sauce; it was a fantastic turn around for cabbage. The Leticia burger is served with homemade spicy chipotle cilantro sauce, pepper jack cheese, roasted Ortega green chile, lettuce, tomato, and avocado. The JuJu Bleu is served with creamy bleu cheese, caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and crumbled bleu cheese. It is refreshing that you could choose your choice of meat from USDA certified Angus beef or all natural free-range ground turkey, portabella mushroom, all natural grilled chicken breast or all natural free range bison. At JuJu (a simile for Grandma) They strive to follow The Golden Rule of treating others the way you want to be treated. They desire to serve the community with not only a great dining experience, but to make a real connection with the guests. They sincerely hope when you leave House of JuJu, you feel better than when you arrived. House of JuJu is are located at 945 Embarcadero in Morro Bay.
Open Daily · Dine In · Carry Out · Local Delivery
SERVING THE CENTRAL COAST
Since 1973
We’ve ! moved Come visit our new location in Pismo Beach
SAME GREAT FOOD, SAME FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED
GIFT CERTIFICATES
PARTY TRAYS
HOLIDAY DINNERS
10. BEDA’S BIERGARTEN IN SAN LUIS OBISPO
Beda’s Biergarten is a new old world sanctuary — those that love genuine German food celebrate it. The restaurant is owned by Beda and Helga Schmidthues, who fell in love with California and moved their family from Germany to San Luis Obispo. Authentic German beers are imported to the delight of everyone. The Erdinger Weisse paired perfectly with my Bretzel, an outstanding soft pretzel made by Breaking Bread Bakery in San Luis Obispo that is served with an Obatzda. It is prepared by mixing aged soft cheese and butter, paprika powder, salt, pepper and a small amount of beer. Garnished with parsley and diced red onions. Reibekuchen Mit Apfelmus, (three potato pancakes) is served with house-made applesauce that tasted like my Nana was in the kitchen. Jägerschnitzel, is thinly tenderized breaded pork pan fired and covered with brown gravy with mushrooms served with Spätzle red cabbage salad. The Spatzle is pasta made with potatoes. It was beyond comfort food and every bite delectable. Our companion had the Wurstplatte Sausage Plate, Beda’s Biergarten is located at 3230 Broad Street #130 in San Luis Obispo. Teri Bayus is the Host of Taste Buds, shown on KSBY and the CW, Charter 2 and on YouTube on the Taste Buds Channel. Teri’s Culinary Erotic Book, Consumed is available on Amazon and iBooks.
1101 Price St. , Ste 100 Pismo Beach ~ 805.773.4438 ~ www.DelsPizzeria.com
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Doug MacMillan of Rosa’s Restaurant in Pismo Beach - Judges Choice Best Chef Doug MacMillan was born and raised in the kitchen. His mother, Rosa started their first restaurant in the California Valley. Lore is that he was conceived in the kitchen, and this is where he gladly chooses to spend his life. His father, who claimed he was smart enough to have a son, taught him how to handmake the ravioli and pasta weekly using ancient recipes and techniques. Rosa’s Italian Restaurant has been a Central Coast dining destination for more than 25 years, and Chef Doug retains its reputation with award-winning recipes. His classical Italian dishes and highly acclaimed specialties, such as cioppino, have been written about in San Francisco and Los Angeles newspapers. www.rosasrestaurant.com
COMPETITION RECIPE
Beet infused risotto arancini with fried beet over spinach pesto and whipped goats cheese.
TO COOK RED BEETS:
For red beets, wash off excess dirt, place in roasting pan and salt and pepper the beets. Add ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil and rub all over and around beets. Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. Once done take a towel and rub the skin off all beets and set aside. Place 2 red roasted beets in a blender and blend until smooth. Set puree aside. Slice 1 beet into thin slices and cube 1 beet into ½ inch cubes.
BEET CHIPS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees, place beet slices on baking sheet, drizzle with virgin olive oil and salt.
TO MAKE RISOTTO:
Chefs Battle to be Chosen Best E
By Teri Bayus, Photos by Meagan Friberg
ach year we choose the best of the best of chefs that grace our coast of California. These culinary masters are all recognized for their creativity, flavor palette and taste in a competition that welcomes them to create using the same box of ingredients from Talley Fresh Harvest and Larder Meat Company. The contestants competed in a live competition where they were judged by audience members, who each got small bites of their dishes, and also in a blind taste testing with celebrity food judges. The winners were Doug MacMillan of Rosa’s Restaurant in Pismo for judges choice and Kurt Metzger, of Thomas Hill Organics in Paso Robles for people’s choice. Below are their recipes for each dish.
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3 tablespoons virgin olive oil ½ yellow onion 1 ½ cup arborio rice 5 cups chicken broth 1 cup roasted pureed beets 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons butter
In a medium sauce pan over medium heat. Sautee onion with olive oil until tender. Add butter and rice and stir coating all grains. With heated chicken broth and beet puree mix add 6 ounces of broth at a time until absorbed by the rice, continue stirring and adding broth until all broth is gone. Transfer to a bowl and cool in refrigerator.
TO MAKE SPINACH PESTO: 1 garlic clove sliced ¼ cup walnuts 8 ounce cleaned spinach Salt and pepper to taste 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil Juice of 1 lime Juice from 1 tangerine
Roast walnuts to extract oils (about 5 minutes in the oven at 350 degrees ). Now add all ingredients to blender, except spinach. Blend for a few seconds. Then you will want to add the spinach 2 ounces at a time and when blended add more. Keep adding till all the spinach is gone.
WHIPPED GOATS CHEESE:
Place 2 ounces of Goat cheese in a bowl. Add a touch of cream and whisk to your desired consistency. Now To Form Your Rice Balls (arancini) 2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs 4 eggs 1 cup flour
Wet your hands, take two ounces of the risotto and place in your hand and form a ball, now make a hole with your finger and add 1 to 2 cubes of the beets, form the rice around the beets. Once you have a ball formed, roll into the flour, then dredge in the egg mix, then roll into the breadcrumbs and set aside.
Once all balls are formed, drop into a frying oil at 350 degrees for 3 minutes or until golden brown. Serve over spinach pesto and whipped goat cheese, garnish with a beet chip.
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Kurt Metzger of Thomas Hill Organics - People’s Choice Best Chef Kurt Metzger, of Thomas Hill Organics, has made an impact on the fine dining scenes in San Diego and Los Angeles and has received national recognition for his successful catering services. Now at the helm of TMO, he describes his style of cooking as ingredient inspired and ingredient driven. www.thomashillorganics.com.
COMPETITION RECIPE
Beef ragu with rainbow chard, braised beet leafs, heirloom carrots over crispy smoked polenta beet and tangerine gastrique finished with olive oil crisped spinach
POLENTA
Salt and pepper 1 cup medium or fine cornmeal Butter Parmesan for soft polenta, optional
For firm polenta use 4 cups water; for soft polenta use 5 cups water. Bring water to a boil in a medium-size heavy saucepan over high heat. Add 1 teaspoon salt. Pour cornmeal slowly into the water, stirring with a wire whisk or wooden spoon. Continue stirring as mixture thickens, 2 to 3 minutes. Turn heat to low. Cook for at least 45 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes or so. If polenta becomes quite thick, thin it with 1/2 cup water, stir well and continue cooking. Add up to 1 cup more water as necessary, to keep polenta soft enough to stir. Put a spoonful on a plate, let it cool, then taste. Grains should be swollen, and taste cooked, not raw. Adjust salt and add pepper if you wish. For firm polenta, lightly butter a baking sheet or shallow dish, approximately 8 1/2 by 11 inches. Carefully pour polenta into the pan. Using a spatula, spread polenta to a thickness of 3/4 inch. Cool to room temperature to allow the polenta to solidify. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For soft polenta, add 6 tablespoons butter to the pot and stir well. Serve immediately or transfer to a double boiler set over low heat, cover and keep warm for up to an hour or so. (Or set the saucepan in a pot of barely simmering water.) Stir well before spooning into low soup bowls. Sprinkle with Parmesan, if desired.
RAGU
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 medium onions, finely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups) 2 celery stalks, finely chopped (about 1 cup) 2 carrots, peeled, finely chopped (about 3/4 cup) 6 ounces ground beef (85% lean) 2 each roasted beets beet stems , finely chopped 1/2 cup dry red wine 3 cups heirloom carrots 3 swiss chared Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 cup whole milk 1 pound tagliatelle or fettuccine (preferably fresh egg)
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Heat oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add onions, celery, and carrots. Saute until soft, 8-10 minutes. Add beef, veal, and pancetta; saute, breaking up with the back of a spoon, until browned, about 15 minutes. Add wine; boil 1 minute, stirring often and scraping up browned bits. Add 2 1/2 cups stock and tomato paste; stir to blend. Reduce heat to very low and gently simmer, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld, 1 1/2 hours. Season with salt and pepper. Bring milk to a simmer in a small saucepan; gradually add to sauce. Cover sauce with lid slightly ajar and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until milk is absorbed, about 45 minutes, adding more stock by 1/4-cupfuls to thin if needed. DO AHEAD: Ragu can be made 2 days ahead. Chill uncovered until cold, then cover and keep chilled. Rewarm before continuing.
TANGERINE, ROASTED BEET GASTRIQUE
12 pearl or cipollini onions, ends trimmed, skins removed 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil Kosher salt and black pepper 1/2 cup sugar 2 tablespoons water 1/2 cup red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon dry red wine, such as Cabernet 2/3 cup roasted beets 2 each tangerines 1 teaspoon canola oil
Adjust oven rack to middle position and preheat oven to 350. Toss onions and olive oil in medium bowl to coat. Season generously with salt and pepper. Transfer onions to rimmed baking sheet and roast until a knife tip slips easily in and out of the onion, about 35 minutes.
Meanwhile, combine sugar and water in a small heavybottomed saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat until sugar is dissolved. Continue to cook without stirring until the liquid reaches a light blond caramel color, 5-8 minutes, swirling gently to help mixture cook evenly. Add red wine vinegar all at once (mixture will boil very rapidly). Continue to cook until sugar is re-dissolved, about 3 minutes. Add wine to the pan and reduce until slightly syrupy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add beets and thyme and cook until beets have broken down slightly and the mixture is dark red with the texture of light maple syrup. Remove from heat and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Casey Walcott of The Sea Venture Casey Walcott started humbly as a dishwasher at the celebrated Bistro Laurent in Paso Robles. At a time when new vineyards seemed to spring up by the minute, this young chef was captivated by the Central Coast’s local wine country and farm-fresh take on classical culinary methods. After growing in skill and responsibility for wine country cuisine at the Bistro, his passion and creativity led him to hold key roles at various restaurants and entrepreneurial ventures in San Luis Obispo County. With impressive local industry knowledge and relationships, Chef Walcott channels his culinary talent into SeaVenture Hotel restaurant’s seasonal and coastal-inspired cuisine. www.seaventure.com
COMPETITION RECIPE
Citrus and beet duck confit, sautéed onion, apple, swiss chard and sous vide carrots with olive oil topped with a fennel and vaca breadcrumb
DUCK CONFIT:
2 lbs duck leg ¼ cup salt 4 each bay leaf 1 lb duck fat 3 garlic clovers 1 red beet peeled and diced 2 tangerines cut in half 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
Salt duck legs and place in a container and refrigerate overnight. Lightly raise the duck legs and pat dry with paper towel. Is a casserole dish place your duck fat and heat in the oven at 300 until melted. Carefully place the duck legs in fat also adding tangerines, garlic, beet, peppercorns, and bay leaf making sure the fat covers all ingredients. Cook at 300 for 2 hours covered with foil. Remove foil and cook at 400 for 30 minutes. Let cool and then refrigerate. Vaca Bread Crumbs ¼ pound ground beef 1 teaspoon granulated garlic 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon fennel pollen
In a mixing bowl mix all ingredients and mix until all ingredients are blended well. Place on a sheet pan and bake at 300 for about 40 minutes to an hour making sure to toss the beef every ten minutes to ensure it dries evenly. Let cool and refrigerate.
SOUS VIDE CARROTS WITH OLIVE OIL
1 pound of Baby carrots peeled with tops ½ cup of olive oil 1 tablespoon of chopped thyme 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper Heat your sous vide to 180. In a mixing bowl place all ingredients and toss making sure the carrots are nice and coated. Place in vacuum bag and seal. Place vacuumed sealed carrots in the water and cook for about 45 minutes to an hour. Open bag and they are ready to serve.
ENTRÉE RECIPE
1 cup julienned onion 1 cup of chopped Swiss chard 1 cup of thin sliced apples 1 teaspoon minced garlic 2 tablespoon olive oil 2 pounds duck confit 1 pound sous vide carrots ¼ cup vaca bread crumbs Salt and pepper to taste
Heat a large sautéed pan on med/high heat and brown duck skin side down first. Set aside and turning heat down to med heat. Add olive oil and onions cooking until golden add apples, garlic, Swiss chard, salt pepper and cook until apples are tender.
PLATING
Place apple and Swiss chard in center of plate, top with duck confit, place carrots on and around the duck, sprinkle bread crumbs on top, garnish with olive oil, citrus juice, sprigs of parsley.
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Breweries
Svyatoslav Ivanovich Popovich of the Cracked Crab
For directions go to alltrails.com
Svyatoslav Ivanovich Popovich, Chef Slavic as he is known to friends and employees, was born to Russian/ Ukrainian parents in Stiy, Ukraine. They emigrated to the U.S. from the Soviet Union in 1991. He began his career as a baker while in high school, transitioning into the savory side shortly after that — cooking his way up the ranks in several restaurants in the Sacramento area. In 2014 he relocated to the Central Coast and has remained at the Cracked Crab since. The Cracked Crab opened in 1999 to serve the finest seafood available in a casual style. It offers the best shellfish that the U.S. has to offer with a focus on Alaskan crab, as well as the best local and fresh seafood. Slavic works with fisherman and processors to obtain the highest quality products available. The Cracked Crab is known for buckets of steamed and lightly salted crab, so we invite you to be our guest and try the best seafood and crab available for yourselves, www.crackedcrab.com.
For directions go to alltrails.com
COMPETITION RECIPE
Beef tortellini with a roasted beet cream sauce. Caramelized carrots, crisp bacon, basil and a balsamic reduction
PASTA DOUGH RECIPE
4 eggs 3 cups flour 2.5 oz oil 2 teaspoons kosher salt Water as needed Mix eggs, flour, oil, salt in a stand mixer. Add water as needed. Mix until it becomes elastic. About 5-10 minutes. Let rest for 30 minutes to one hour before rolling.
BEET CREAM SAUCE
3 large red beets 1/2 yellow onion 3 cloves garlic 1 sprig fresh thyme 2 cups manufacturing cream 1 Tablespoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper
Roast beets garlic and onion until tender. Blend and add fresh thyme. Add cream and cook in a sauce pot until thick. Salt and pepper to taste.
TORTELLINI FILLING:
1 lb ground beef 4oz bacon chopped 1 bunch of chard finely chopped 1/2 bunch of spinach finely chopped 4 cloves of garlic (brunoise) 1/2 yellow onion (brunoise) 1/2 bunch basil (chiffonade) 4oz shredded parmesan 4oz goat cheese 4oz olive oil
Taste Buds host Teri Bayus with people’s choice winner Kurt Metzger (left) and judge’s favorite Doug MacMillan (right).
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On medium heat cook bacon in oil until crisp. Remove bacon leaving fat behind. Cook onions until tender, then add spinach, chard, beef, garlic cook until done. Return bacon to the pan then add goat cheese and parmesan. Stir in well and remove from heat.
NORTH COAST
SAN LUIS OBISPO
Ale House Baywood 690 Santa Maria Ave. Los Osos 805-752-1089 baywoodlososos.com
7 Sisters Brewing 181 Tank Farm Rd., Ste 110 San Luis Obispo 805-868-7133 7sistersbrewing.com
Cambria Beer Co. 821 Cornwall St. Cambria 805-203-5265 cambriabeerco.com
Bang the Drum Brewery 950 Orcutt Rd. San Luis Obispo 805-242-8372 bangthedrumbrewery.com
NORTH COUNTY
Central Coast Brewing 1422 Monterey St. San Luis Obispo 805-783-2739 centralcoastbrewing.com
Barrel House Brewing 3055 Limestone Way Paso Robles 805-296-1128 barrelhousebrewing.com Dunbar Brewing 2200 El Camino Real Santa Margarita 805-704-9050 dunbarbrewing.com Earth and Fire Brewing 825 Riverside Ave., Ste 1 Paso Robles 805-270-2959 earthandfirebrewing.com Firestone Walker Brewing Company 1400 Ramada Dr. Paso Robles 805-225-5913 firestonebeer.com Tent City Beer Co. 6760 El Camino Real Atascadero 805-460-6454 mollypitcher.net The Pour House 525 Pine St. Paso Robles 805-539-1000 pasobrewing.com
Doc’s Cellar 855 Capitolio Way San Luis Obispo 805-781-9974 docscellar.com Downtown Brewing Co. 1119 Garden St. San Luis Obispo 805-543-1843 downtownbrew.com Fossil Fuels Brewing Co. 1854 Castillo Ct. San Luis Obispo 805-748-9717 fossilfuelsbrewingco.com Hop On Beer Tours PO Box 3814 San Luis Obispo 855-554-6766 hoponbeertours.com Libertine Brewing Co. 1234 Broad St. San Luis Obispo 805-548-2337 thelibertinepub.com Metro Brew Co. 1040 Broad St. San Luis Obispo 805-439-4200 metrobrewco.com
Ottano Inc. 11555 Los Osos Valley Rd. San Luis Obispo 805-547-2088 SLO Brewing Co. 1125 Garden St. San Luis Obispo 805-439-0485 slobrewingco.com SLO Brew Rock 855 Aerovista Ln. San Luis Obispo 805-543-1843 slobrew.com/therock Tap IT Brewing Co. 675 Clarion Ct #1 San Luis Obispo 805-545-7702 tapitbrewing.com
SOUTH COUNTY Bittersweet Brewing Co. 191 S. Oak Park Blvd., Ste 3 Grover Beach bittersweetbrewing.com Figueroa Mountain 1462 E. Grand Ave. Arroyo Grande 805-694-2252 figmtnbrew.com ManRock Brewing Co. 1750 El Camino Real #A Grover Beach 805-270-3089 manrockbrewing.com Pismo Beach Brewing 500 Cypress St., Ste. S2 Pismo Beach 805-295-6200 pismobrew.com Shell Beach Brewhouse 1527 Shell Beach Rd. Pismo Beach 805-295-6328 shellbeachbrewhouse.com
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Galleries
NORTH COAST
ARTS Obispo, San Luis Obispo County Arts Council 570 Higuera St. 805-544-9251 sloartscouncil.org
Cayucos Art Association & Cayucos Art Gallery 10 Cayucos Dr., Cayucos 805-995-2049 cayucosart.org
SAN LUIS OBISPO
Art by Colleen Gnos 141 Suburban Rd. C4, San Luis Obispo colleengnos.com Frame Works 339 Marsh St. 805-542-9000 sloart.com Gene Francis Gallery 1120 Garden St. 805-545-7902 genefrancis.net Hands Gallery Contemporary Craftsmanship 777 Higuera St. 805-543-1921 handsgallery.com Just Looking Gallery 746 Higuera St. 805-541-6663 justlookinggallery.com San Luis Obispo Museum of Art 1010 Broad St. 805-543-8562 sloma.org Spirits of Africa Gallery 672 Higuera St. 805-598-3212 spiritsofafricagallery.com
REVEAL the central coast of california
Award-Winning Clam Chowder
The Bunker SLO 810 Orcutt Rd. 805-541-5403 thebunkerslo.com
Fiona Bleu/Rowan Chase Studio/ 900 Embarcadero, Morro Bay 805-772-0541 rowanchasestudio.com
The John Landon Gallery 1110 Morro St. 805-748-2306 johnlandongallery.com
SOUTH COUNTY Chris Burkard Gallery 271 B Five Cities Dr., Pismo Beach 805-270-3835 chrisburkard.com Sayva Creative Art Gallery 65 Landing Passage, Avila Beach 805-704-6859 sayvacreativegallery.com
Forever Stoked 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay 805-772-9095 foreverstoked.com Full Moon Pottery Studio-Gallery 345 Harbor St., Morro Bay 805-772-2890 fullmoonmb.com Gallery At Marina Square 601 Embarcadero, Morro Bay 805-772-4972 galleryatmarinasquare.com
Seaside Gallery 176 Foothill Rd., Pismo Beach 805-295-6386 theseasidegallery.com The Place 1699 Pacific Coast Highway 1, Oceano
Morro Bay Art Association 835 Main St., Morro Bay 805-771-2504 artcentermorrobay.com
Thomas Kinkade Signature Gallery 500 Cypress St., Pismo Beach 805-773-9424 kinkadecentralcoast.com
Seven Sisters Gallery 601 Embarcadero, Morro Bay 805-772-2504 stores.sevensistersgalleryca.com
Under The Sea Gallery 324 Front St., Avila Beach 805-627-1488
Under The Sea 833 Embarcadero, Morro Bay 805-772-4872
Colleen Gnos Gallery in San Luis Obispo
!
We ship chowder!
By The Bay Gallery 895 Embarcadero, Morro Bay 805-772-5563 bythebaygallery.com
Steynberg Gallery 1531 Monterey St. 805-547-0278 steynberggallery.com
Chris Burkard Gallery in Pismo Beach
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Art Center Morro Bay 835 Main St., Morro Bay 805-772-2504 artcentermorrobay.org
cla fr Ord m esh er y ch ly ou ow fro r de ze ro n nli ne
• •
197 Pomeroy, Pismo Beach 1491 Monterey, SLO
Order take-out online at
SplashCafe.com
Open 7 days a week!
Art by Rowan Chase at Fiona Bleu Gallery in Morro Bay
NORTH COUNTY EarthTones 1319 Park St., Paso Robles 805-238-4413 earthtonesgifts.com Marie Ramey Fine Art 5806 Traffic Way, Atascadero 805-466-3684 art5806.com Park Street Gallery Fine Art 1320 Park St., Paso Robles 805-286-4430 parkstreetgallery.com
Paso Robles Art Association 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles 805-238-5473 pasoroblesartassociation.org Studios on the Park 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles 805-238-9800 studiosonthepark.org
2024 MAIN ST. CAMBRIA, CA 93428
805.927.7654 CAMBRIAGARDENSHED.COM
The Art Works 1336-A Railroad, Paso Robles 805-238-2977 Viva Paso 1211 Pine St. 805-391-0361 viviapaso.com
The Rock and the Marketplace Exhibit will take place June 28 through August 13, 2018 at the Art Center Morro Bay. “Morro Rock”© courtesy of Jim Tyler spring | summer 2018
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11AM-MIDNIGHT