On Memorial Day we did what any Californian would do.
We jumped in the car, and drove to the coast.
Ok, so maybe not every Californian would choose to spend their day in such a manner, but I can't get enough of the ocean. I love inhaling the salty, fresh air. I am soothed by the sound of crashing waves. I am hypnotized by the jagged rocky coastline. And I adore exploring the local quaint shops and eateries.
We drove north and ended up in Bodega Bay, along the Sonoma Coast.
We stopped at Gourmet au Bay, for a little wine tasting, or wine surfing as they refer to it.
The selection was huge and we couldn't decide...
...so we ordered one of each.
The flights each came in handcrafted wooden wine surf boards. I tried really hard to find a reason to buy one, but sadly I couldn't justify the need to serve wine in such a whimsical manner.
What wine tasting isn't better with cheese, crackers, almonds and dried cranberries?
We sat. And drank. And soaked up the view.
After a few hours of pure relaxation, we hit the road again and headed north to Jenner. We had gotten a recommendation to try River's End, a restaurant and inn named for the point where the Russian River meets the sea.
The restaurant is perched on the edge of a cliff, with spectacular views and a wrap-around balcony from which to take it all in. It almost feels like you are dining in a tree house.
After an afternoon of wine tasting, I decided to change things up with a wine soda instead. The beverage, made from Chardonnay grapes, was a refreshing hybrid of sparkling soda and wine.
First course- Salmon Poke with cucumber and avocado, infused with an Asian vinaigrette and served with crispy won tons.
Next, I was served the best beet salad that I have ever eaten. The Technicolor Beet Salad. It was made from roasted multi-color beets layered with goat cheese, macadamia nuts and fresh basil then drizzled with an orange balsamic reduction. Oh. My. Delicious.
My boyfriend cleverly named it "The Leaning Tower of Beetza".
Still makes me laugh.
Funny Boyfriend ordered the fish and chips in ale batter, a classic dish that was well suited for a lazy coastal meal.
To end what was already a wonderful afternoon, we stopped at one of the many beaches along the way and took a nap on the sand. Zzzzzzz.....
For this Californian, it was a perfect way to spend Memorial Day.
Beautiful photos! Great blog!!
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