If you love a spectacular shoreline, seafood and foraged mushrooms, consider a trip to Fort Bragg, Calif., north of San Francisco.
Welcome to Mendocino County
This remote region isn’t exactly easy to access, but the long and winding roads lead to a long stretch of craggy coastline that’s absolutely gorgeous. Stretch your legs after the road trip by walking along the Coastal Trail in Fort Bragg, a paved stretch that runs nearly five miles through the Noyo Headlands Park. Just stunning.
This community-driven project, which opened in 2015 as a rehab of a shuttered Georgia-Pacific paper mill, is a prime example of a well-done refresh funded by various partners including the state parks and Caltrans.
All that sea air stirred up an appetite? Let’s head to Noyo Harbor for a seafood feast.
The best fish and chips
This scenic harbor is home to a number of restaurants and cafes, but Noyo Fish Company takes top honors for the area’s finest fish and chips.
For starters, the batter is made using North Coast Brewing’s Schrimshaw Pilsner-style beer, which adds a lot of flavor and makes the fried fish extra crispy and light. A little bit like the best tempura you’ve ever eaten.
Of course, the fish — a rock cod — is local. If you’re hooked after enjoying your meal on the outdoor deck, head over to Princess Seafood to pick up some sashimi-grade product to take home. Or, if you’re looking to DIY a picnic, stop into Roundman’s Smokehouse on Fort Bragg’s main drag.
In that neighborhood, North Coast Brewing’s popular pub also offers its take on fish and chips, along with a long list of beer-friendly fare. Don’t miss the blueberry cobbler cheesecake for dessert, a mashup of two classics.
A different kind of bakery
While exploring Fort Bragg’s retail landscape, you’re likely to notice a stylish shop called The Bakery. Yup, it’s a cannabis store.
Weed has been legal in the Golden State since 2016 and this upscale setting offers an extensive selection, including some darned tasty edibles. Enjoy!
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