CAMBRIA, CALIFORNIA, USA -- Food is a passion for many in Cambria. It's no wonder, the Paso Robles wine region is in close proximity and Cambria makes a great base to explore from as you get the benefits of staying near the ocean while you drive a few miles inland for the wineries.

For dinner it's hard to beat the Cambria Pines Lodge (click here for full story), especially since much of the produce and herbs come from the on property organic garden.

For lunch or a light snack, Barry and Lee Anne Went have created a charming and relaxing atmosphere in their historic little cottage turned tea room. The Tea Cozy serves traditional British lunches and teas using the finest blends mixed by the Wents themselves. The Tea Cozy is located at 4286 Bridge St. in Cambria. For information call 805-927-8765 or visit www.teacozy.com.

For dinner, Bistro Solé offers a vast array of progressive California cuisine created by Jay Somers and prepared by his well-trained staff. The restaurant's interior reflects Jay's love of the arts with walls covered in paintings any gallery would envy. Jay's love of art carries over to the restaurant's food -- dishes that in and of themselves are works of art. They offer an extensive wine list of local wines, daily and nightly specials, as well as creative vegetarian dishes fare. Find Bistro Sole at 1900 Main St. in Cambria. For more information call 805-927-0887.

Foodies will also want to schedule a stop at Fermentations, a culinary themed gift shop stocked full of gourmet oils and vinegars and other tasty tidbits, gifts, books, tableware and much more. You're sure to find some unique hard to find items that will add new dimension to your cooking long after you return home. Fermentations also offer wine tasting, highlighting California wines. Shop employees are friendly and knowledgeable and they make a stop at Fermentations a fun activity. Find our favorite Cambria shop at 4056 Burton Dr. in Cambria. Call 800-446-7505 or visit www.fermentations.com.

Cheri Sicard, in addition to being the editor of FabulousTravel.com and its sister site, Fabulous Foods.com is the author of The Great American Handbook: What You Can Do For Your Country Today and Every Day and The Low Carb Restaurant Guide, and the co-author of US Citizenship for Dummies. To learn more about Cheri, click here.