Monthly Newsletter | March 2024

Welcome to the March edition of our Monthly Newsletter where we journey through the vibrant landscapes and flavors of San Luis Obispo County, CA! As spring breathes new life into our surroundings, join us in exploring a kaleidoscope of experiences. This month, lace up your boots for a scenic hike along the coast, indulge in the culinary delights of a local eatery, savor the bouquet of a renowned winery’s offerings, mark your calendar for a special events throughout the month, and embrace the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day as we toast to the joys of discovery and renewal in this enchanting corner of California ☘️

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HIKE OF THE MONTH

ELFIN FOREST

The Elfin Forest in Los Osos, California, is a magical natural enclave that seems as though it has been plucked straight from a fairy tale.

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Covering approximately 90 acres, the Elfin Forest ecological reserve offers a rare glimpse into the diverse habitats and unique plant and animal species that thrive in the coastal zone of San Luis Obispo County. The Elfin Forest, named for its dwarfed oak trees, provides an enchanting experience for nature enthusiasts, hikers, bird watchers, and anyone looking to escape into a serene and mystical natural world.

The Elfin Forest is not only a haven for biodiversity but also a sanctuary for the soul. The reserve features a 1-mile-long boardwalk loop that meanders through the forest, allowing for accessible exploration of this delicate ecosystem without disturbing it. Along the way, interpretive signs provide insights into the area’s ecological, geological, and cultural history, enhancing the visitor’s experience and understanding of the forest’s significance.

RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH

BEAR & THE WREN

Bear and The Wren, nestled within the vibrant Creamery Marketplace in San Luis Obispo, California, is a culinary gem that marries rustic charm with modern flair, offering an unparalleled dining experience that captivates both locals and visitors alike.

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As you step through the inviting wooden doors of Bear and The Wren, you’re immediately greeted by a warm and inviting ambiance. The interior decor effortlessly blends industrial elements with cozy accents, creating a welcoming atmosphere that invites patrons to settle in and savor the moment. Exposed brick walls adorned with local artwork provide a nod to the area’s rich history, while plush leather banquettes and carefully curated lighting add a touch of elegance to the space.

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WINERY OF THE MONTH

RAILS NAP

Rails Nap Winery stands as a testament to the rich winemaking heritage of Paso Robles, California, nestled within the renowned Paso Robles American Viticultural Area (AVA). With a history deeply rooted in the region’s winemaking traditions, Rails Nap Winery has recently reopened its doors, inviting wine enthusiasts to savor its exceptional wines amidst the picturesque landscape of the Geneseo District.

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The history of Rails Nap Winery traces back to the early days of Paso Robles’ emergence as a prominent wine-producing region. Founded by a group of passionate winemakers in the late 20th century, the winery quickly gained recognition for its commitment to crafting premium wines that capture the essence of the Paso Robles terroir. Over the years, Rails Nap Winery became synonymous with quality, earning accolades for its distinctive varietals and dedication to excellence in winemaking.

Within the Paso Robles AVA lies the Geneseo District, a sub-appellation revered for its premium vineyards and exceptional wines. Home to Rails Nap Winery, the Geneseo District encompasses rolling hills, sun-drenched vineyards, and a sense of tranquility that epitomizes the Paso Robles wine country experience. Here, amidst the rugged beauty of the landscape, Rails Nap cultivates its grapes with meticulous care, harnessing the full potential of the region’s terroir to craft wines of unparalleled quality and distinction.

Visitors to Rails Nap Winery are invited to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery, where each sip tells a story of tradition, innovation, and the timeless allure of Paso Robles wine. Whether enjoying a leisurely tasting overlooking the vineyards or participating in an exclusive wine-pairing experience, guests are treated to an immersive sensory adventure that celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship of Rails Nap’s winemaking legacy.

In essence, Rails Nap Winery represents more than just a place to enjoy wine—it embodies the spirit of Paso Robles, where passion, perseverance, and a deep reverence for the land converge to create something truly extraordinary. As the winery continues to write its story in the annals of Paso Robles winemaking history, one thing remains certain: the journey is as memorable as the destination, and the best is yet to come.

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CHEF’S CORNER

THE VERSATILE CHEF

By Chef Candice Custodio

If you’ve received our newsletter before, you know each month we publish a delicious recipe by our favorite local chef, Chef Candice Custodio. This month we’re celebrating the publication of Chef Candice’s cookbook: The Versatile Chef!

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We could not be more thrilled for Chef Candice, and hope all of our readers help us send her the warmest congratulations for the publication of her cookbook!

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SPECIAL EVENT SPOTLIGHT

The Central Coast Craft Beer Fest is a pivotal event celebrating the rich culture of craft brewing on California’s Central Coast. Scheduled for March 23, 2024, this festival is not just a gathering but a vibrant showcase of over 55 independently owned craft breweries, cideries, seltzer makers, kombucha brewers, and wineries from across California. The event promises an immersive experience for attendees, set against the picturesque backdrop of the famous Sunken Gardens in Atascadero.

A standout feature of the festival is its live entertainment lineup, featuring performances by Silk Ocean, Carbon City Lights, and DJ sets by Traffic Records, ensuring that the atmosphere is electrifying from start to finish. Beyond the brews and beats, the festival is a community-centric event, offering a plethora of food trucks, a wide array of merchant vendors, and engaging lawn games like mega-sized beer pong. It’s an environment where friends can gather, new connections can be made, and the communal spirit of the craft beer culture can be celebrated.

The Central Coast Craft Beer Fest is more than just a day of indulgence; it’s a contributor to the local community and the broader craft beer movement. Proceeds from the event benefit local charities and the Central Coast Brewers Guild. The guild plays a pivotal role in educating consumers about the unique contributions of the Central Coast to the craft beer industry, highlighting the festival’s commitment to both celebration and education.

EVENT CALENDAR

NEXT MONTH

If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading our newsletter! ❤️

We’ll be back next month with even more ideas to hike around SLO County; a new bar, restaurant, and winery of the month; another extra special recipe from Chef Candice Custodio; and more special events you don’t want to miss! 

See you next month!

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