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in Sebastopol: enjoy eye-catching sculptures and alternative shopping
- Northern California Day Trip |
As you approach Sebastopol on State 116 west, an hour's
drive north of the Golden Gate Bridge, look for the Fosters Freeze to
your right: Perched on the roof is a scarlet convertible driven by a guy
accompanied by his red-haired wife and a yapping dog. The car is the work
of local artist Patrick Amiot, a French Canadian who creates "urban
folk art" from discarded junk. His sculptures, from a dynamic 12-foot
Batman to a 1930s pickup truck with a cow in its bed, have become Sebastopol's
most intriguing attractions.
Known during much of the past century for its apple orchards, Sebastopol
has become a haven for independent thinkers and artists, and its downtown
shops reflect that alternative spirit. Rosemary's Garden (closed Sun;
132 N. Main St.; 707/829-2539) sells loose herbs, tea, and bodycare
products. Many Rivers Books & Tea (130 S. Main; 707/829-8871),
a bookstore and teahouse, specializes in spiritual writing from the
likes of the Dalai Lama, not to mention Dr. Seuss.
Sebastopol's down-to-earth flavor extends to
its eateries. Try the ricotta pancakes served during Sunday brunch at
Lucy's Restaurant, Bar & Bakery ($$; 6948 Sebastopol Ave.; 707/829-9713).
A local favorite for dinner is Alice's Restaurant at 101 Main ($$;
closed Sun; 101 S. Main; 707/829-3212), with comfort food like herb-marinated
steak. Screamin' Mimi's (6902 Sebastopol Ave.; 707/823-5902) serves
natural sorbets and ice creams, such as Mimi's Mud--coffee with chunks
of cookies and fudge......You
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