Atascadero’s Downtown Fashion-Forward Enclave

Like a main vein jutting perpendicular off El Camino across from the future La Plaza, Entrada Avenue is a blooming of new business pumping life in downtown Atascadero. Arguably, the special atmosphere and camaraderie of the business owners make it the best street in Atascadero’s Colony District.

From a halfway shutdown tenancy just a couple of years ago, Entrada now has eating, drinking, and shopping to keep you busy for a few hours at a time, and a barbershop if you stay too long.

Wake up at Dark Nectar with a fresh cuppa Joe from Danny Jones and crew, then get on your way. 

While a day on Entrada might be less exciting for the man of the house, bring him too and drop him off at Dead Oak Brewing Co. He can stay for a spell, then head to Nate’s Barbershop to clean up with a fresh look in a classic barbershop in which you might expect a quartet to serenade the snip while you tour a bourgeoning downtown avenue filled with knowledgable and friendly proprietors. Think we’re fans? Yeah, we are.

Want a fresh look with fashion-forward clothing? Hit Farron Elizabeth where you can get fitted and fixed up with the down-low on the rest of the shops on Entrada. Farron offers 20 years of fashion experience, custom made clothing, jewelry and accessories in a shop whose atmosphere reflects something out of Caesar’s Palace. It’s a can’t miss for ladies of all ages.

Next door, Black Sheep Finds brings sexy back with vintage clothing and unique specialty items. A recently stocked hat selection includes Gigi pip hats, and the macrame is a must-see.

Broaden the spectrum with a stop at Anna & Mom for a selection of clothing and gifts for children and the people who love them. Selections of new books, hats, decor, toys, and seasonal items curated by Anna Pecharich and her team of treasure hunters. Season to season, it is an ever-changing display of well-organized merchandise for all ages.

Mix it up next door at Baby’s Babble, where a collection of gently-used and never-used items for the little ones can be found. From strollers to clothes to toys and games, its a unique experience for the adventurous new mom or dad.

Wow, we were just getting started but I feel like it is either time for another cup of coffee from Danny or a stop for a mid-day cold one from Dead Oak Brewering Co. Either way, it is time for a pick me up before round two. Whale’s Tale kombucha out of the tap at Dark Nectar is always fresh and a flavorful punch to the taste buds, or carb-up with a snack.

Popping to the north side of Entrada, you’ll find another one-of-a-kind shop in Mudflat Mercantile, where a selection of boots will blow your socks off. No, seriously keep your socks on when trying on boots, but the selection puts the ‘fun’ in funky. The Mercantile also carries a wide selection of unique gift items that brighten up holiday decorations with vintage and rustic looks.

Head over to Scissor Clothing for handmade outfits, local goods and vintage items and apothecary.

Almost had enough? Us too. Head back toward El Camino Real and get yourself topped off with some wine tasting at the newly-renovated Kula Vineyards and Winery tasting room. Dog-friendly, featuring an outdoor patio area and dessert pairings on weekends.

Need something a bit more hearty? Turn the corner right at ECR and pop in at LaDonna’s for a special homemade meal by none other than LaDonna White. She cooks like it’s her own home, and the atmosphere is modern and inviting. Custom cocktails and special orders are made to order. LaDonna creates from scratch, but can also cook a custom meal — call ahead to reserve and place custom orders to make that special evening spectacular.

It’s a short avenue, but packs a punch. Take a trip and tell them Colony Magazine sent you.