I fell in love with Paso in 2004, when I was starting my research on the wine book, “California’s Central Coast, The Ultimate Winery Guide: From Santa Barbara to Paso Robles.” Little did my husband Kirk Honeycutt and I know then that one day we’ll become bi-County residents, spending our time between Los Angeles and Paso Robles.

We were fortunate to have found this charming house, circa 1940’s, on the famed Vine Street, a mere four blocks from the historic town square. Once we drive into our Cabernet Cottage we don’t touch our car till its time to return to Los Angeles.

On a typical stay, if we are not up to making breakfast at home, we’ll walk to Amsterdam’s for coffee and muffins. I’ll swing by and say hello to Kay Waltz at Kaya, my favorite shop for clothes, jewerly and gifts, then stop by next door at We Olive, where I stock up om my all-time favorite 30-year aged balsamic vinegar. A walk in the park and then maybe check out one of the wine tasting rooms, browse through some antique stores and a peek at Powell’s candy store, a mini wonderland of sweets!

A visit at DiRaimando’s Italian Market to pick up assorted cheeses, crackers and pasta and we are set for an afternoon snack or a mini lunch on our patio. Time for a quick snooze or maybe relax in the garden with a book. Summer time, we’ll get on our ladder and harvest the bounty of apples and apricots (the ones that the deer didn’t get to) and share the crop with friends and neighbors. In the evening, it’s off to the town square again, maybe meet some friends and have a glass of wine at The Pony Club. Then time for dinner … maybe at Il Cortile, Robert’s, Villa Creek, Artisan, Estrella, Bistro Laurent…there are so many choices. On weekends, the Paso Robles Inn’s bar rocks with local bands so a quick stop there before heading home.

As we walk home, on summer nights, I stop for a moment and take in the vast sky shimmering with countless stars. And on a full moon night, the bench in our garden makes a perfect spot for a romantic moon-watching.

That’s my Paso! And I love being a new resident here. I am glad to share our house that I have so lovingly refurbished. I am sure as you frequent this lovely town, you will create your own memorable experiences.

Enjoy Cabernet Cottage in good health.  Mi Casa e Su Casa!!

Mira Advani Honeycutt
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California’s Central Coast, The Ultimate Winery Guide: From Santa Barbara to Paso Robles  (Chronicle Books)