Inspiration Trip. Amador Wine Country, CA.
We try to share our sources of inspiration here whenever we can. Our fundamental design premise is representing the lifestyle of California Wine Country so we immerse ourselves in some of our favorite places in the various wine growing regions whenever possible. Today we’re sharing one of our favorite local wine making regions, Amador Wine Country. This week, we visited the town of Sutter Creek.
Sutter Creek began as a result of the success of nearby mining town Coloma after the gold motherhood was discovered in 1848. Sutter Creek began providing local miners with goods and supplies and some even set up mining operations in nearby creeks and deep rock mining lead to the success of some early miners. Mining continues in this area today. Now a mix of old and new, Sutter Creek boasts dining, quaint inns, spas and shopping for locals and visitors alike. With a population of just over 2,500 even visitors can find themselves thinking the town belongs to them since it offers a sought after reprieve from the busy cities throughout the state.
On Main St. Stutter Creek there are shops offering antiques, clothing, gourmet foods, wine and more and for out of towners a real gold rush town experience. Travelers come from all over the world to visit stay in the historic bed and breakfasts, hotels and vacation rental cottages. Restaurants in and around Sutter Creek rival the finest eateries in the state of California. Each Sutter Creek restaurant has its own unique flavor and ambiance and the character of Sutter Creek’s historic culture is prevalent through its various dining experiences.
Dining. Our recommendation for local dining is at Element Restaurant. Located at the Hanford House Inn, the restaurant offers cultured and creative breakfast and brunch dishes. Finding the delicate balance between innovation and recognizable comfort, items such as the Hanford House Benny featuring house made citrus hollandaise sauce and soppressata are part of a unique breakfast experience. The restaurant has a lively and casual atmosphere, patrons enjoy our full spirit and espresso bar and dining on the patio.
Element
61 Hanford Street
Sutter Creek, CA 95685
Phone: 209-267-0747
info@restaurantelement.com
After brunch or lunch we like to wander the streets of Sutter Creek looking for inspiration in the bed and breakfasts and restored homes. With perfect white exteriors, expertly pruned landscaping and historic elements this town is a goldmine of residences for anyone interested in California history or home design. Walk from one end of town to the other with a coffee and comfortable walking shoes. Gold rush towns are famous for eleven plank sidewalks and varying level sidewalks that require the attention and focus of visitors.
Shopping is plentiful in Sutter Creek and we haven’t even had a chance to visit all the stores even as routine visitors to the town. One of our favorite shops is the Antique Gardner. Offering antiques, gardening necessities and everything needed to warm up a home, this shop is one that can be visited over and over again. The perfectly curated offerings are unique and allow visitors to get to know what this part of California is about. Browse an ever-changing selection of European and American antiques, specializing in galvanized tubs and planters, metal garden chairs and architectural salvage. Soaps, lotions and candles lend their counterpoint to the inviting displays. Containers filled with freshly planted flowers can be found in the garden outside. Make sure to save time to visit this favorite.
The Antique Gardener
80 Main Street
Sutter Creek, CA 95685
Phone: 209-267-5551
The Sutter’s Creek Visitor’s Center is located at
Sutter Creek Visitors Center
71A Main Street
P.O. Box 1234
Sutter Creek, CA 95685
209-267-1344
Email: info@suttercreek.org
Web: www.suttercreek.org
