Cheers to a Bright Downtown
By Atascadero News · Fri Dec 12 2025
By Kyla Skinner
As we are busy with the holiday season, we all have plenty of events to attend and all the usual amazing things happening downtown as well. Light up the Downtown on December 5, Winter Wonderland on December 12, Holiday Magic at Central Coast Zoo on December 20, and more!
So instead of focusing on what there is to do this month, I thought it would be lovely to look back! I glance around in appreciation for the changes we have seen in 2025. While the downtown construction was disruptive and controversial, I absolutely love walking around in our new and improved city center. The landscaping, the lighting, the brick pathways, I’m in awe every time we walk or drive through. With a few very sad and fatal traffic accidents on El Camino Real the past year, I am also reminded of how much safer the new downtown is for pedestrians. The back-up parking spots may take some caution, but overall, the slower speeds and managed crosswalks seem so much smarter.
Worth highlighting are our new businesses that have joined the downtown community. One of my faves is Lebber’s Pizza at 5943 Traffic Way! New to their storefront, but not new to pizza, Lebber’s has built up a devoted following from their previous pop-up days in Tin City and the hype is real. A simple yet chock full of flavor menu, my favorites are their Toadhead pizza (add sausage) and their ranch dressing is delish! An immaculate and friendly interior full of laughter and hospitality, a lovely wine and beer array also. Get there early as they sell out!
Atascadero Vintage Market, at 5850 El Camino Real, opened their doors in August. Hosting 28 vendors with curated items, this isn’t your typical antique mall. A hip selection of trending clothing, eclectic and modern home decor and goods, high-end handbags, and more, I find something cool every time I go in. My favorite purchase is a huge woven Peruvian tapestry that is now hanging in our living room. Bright and vibrant and one of a kind. Crystal and Cheri will welcome you in with a smile and you can enjoy hours of meandering.
The Tea Trolley has reopened with a new owner and a gorgeous glow-up. Located at 5932 Entrada, the little house that has seen the history of Atascadero pass by it’s picturesque Mexican-tiled stucco exterior; Deneen, the new owner has held on to its history yet brought it into a stylish new existence with rich turquoise and gold details on the exterior. Deneen and her talented crew will be offering a high tea experience by reservation on the weekends, and walk-in retail available on the weekdays. To make a reservation or find out more, visit theteatrolley.com
Another favorite of mine is the Central Coast Refilery, at 5835 Traffic Way. Carrying sustainable home and body care products that are good for you, and the environment. Take in your empty detergent bottles and refill them with a carefully selected array of scented and non-scented options. If you’re like me, klutzy, you may make a mess and come out cleaner then you came in. (I have trouble with overfilling my containers then having soap drip all over me!) Woman owned, Tracy has created a beautiful cozy shop space with everything you need to create that in your home as well.
Goodbye 2025. As always, each year is full of hard challenges and lovely magical moments. I’m proud to be a part of our downtown, thank you for supporting local and giving us business owners so much to be thankful for. 2026, here we come!
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