A source of California
comfort food
After an early
morning drive through fog and mountains, Husband Walter and I arrived in
Mendocino with dismal skies dimming gingerbread-trimmed structures to dull
whites and pastels.
The picturesque
coastal town of my memory was at the northern limit of a West Coast trip we
made years ago. On that trip, under sunny skies, we strolled all around the
business district, the galleries and specialty shops located in structures of a
bygone era. I had looked forward to repeating that experience even with my
post-stroke walking that would be slower and more tiring.
On this visit Hubby
drove around until we spotted a likely coffee shop and bakery. We were ready
for our coffee, hot tea and comfort food. We found a parking spot a block or so
away. No stroll this time.
We hustled through a
light drizzle, avoiding the puddles pooling on the streets. The term “hustle” post-stroke
is, of course, applied to indicate faster than my current normal rather than
actual speedy foot travel.
The Goodlife Café and
Bakery touted itself as an organic espresso and juice bar with homemade food. Our
entrance into the café was pure pleasure. Warmth, both physical and emotional,
welcomed us.
The inviting
Goodlife.
A queue of congenial
patrons studied the available food and drink while the enticing scents of
freshly baked bread, pastries and breakfast and lunch offerings wafted around
us.
Hubby, left, joins
the queue in the Goodlife.
A latte for him and
hot tea for me had us both warmed up and mellow. We split an empanada, the
first we had ever seen, let alone tasted. The egg, cheese and sausage version we
shared was delicious. The slaw that came with it was a fantastic combination of
sweet, sour and crunch.
No sunshine outdoors,
but definitely a sunny day for us inside the Goodlife Café and Bakery.
What a nice respite from the cold rain. That meal looks delicious!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful place to warm up. The food looks delicious. I'm sure you had a great day!
ReplyDeleteThis looks wonderful! I don't think I have ever seen one either.
ReplyDeletelove the name of the cafe and that plate if yummmmy
ReplyDeleteWonderful food and a cheery warm place. Thanks for the vicarious trip. Dianne
ReplyDelete