If you’re looking for a California native who regularly visits Los Angeles to surf and actually says “Cali,” it’s going to take time. But go ahead and still try.
While you’re looking, though, and exploring the great state, I hope you stop along the central coast. Or stop to stay for a small holiday, because it’s truly underrated. Not complaining, as the lack of visitors help keep the small towns quaint, but it’s worth the pit stop. Especially if you like cookies.
A hidden gem and local must-stop, Red Moose Cookie Company has devoured the Cambria cookie market and beyond with two simple ingredients: love and butter. Ok, maybe a few more Cinnful contents, but a quickie stop here will send you home on the Weight Watchers Naughty Rod.
Just off the coast from Paso Robles wineries, the bakery’s hidden in the most unlikely location, often tricky to find. But the homemade cookies are fantastic, and the owners, Caren and Roger, are ready to talk, tell their story, and sell you a cookie or five. Worth the scavenger hunt if you ask me.
Just look for the Red Moose.
Inspired by her dad and despite the irony of her profession, Caren eventually quit her job as a dental assistant to open her own cookie store, baking with real vanilla and butter. After operating successfully alone in Washington, she moved to Cambria and reopened with a high-school-friend Roger, and the rest is, well, on the menu.
Highly rated on Yelp and TripAdvisor, I suggest you pop in for a little treat. Oh, and good luck on your hunt through “Cali.”
Red Moose Cookie Company is located at:
2531 Village Lane
Suites C and D
Cambria CA 93428
Fin.
