When you think of a General Store, you very well (like me!) think of a weathered wooden building housing a bustling business where you can buy 50 pound sacks of flour, 50 pound cubes of butter, fifty pound hunks o’ bacon, and, uhhhhh… 50 pound coonskin hats, all from a grizzled old man named Clarence that greets you with a “Good day, kind stranger. I reckon you find yerself needin’ fifty pounds of grain to feed yer critters” or something along those lines.
If that’s what you’re looking for, fellow kind strangers, you’re sorely mistaken. But, if you’re looking for the perfect gift for someone who has everything or even to just treat yourself because, let’s face it, you’re kind of a big deal, this is your place!
I’m semi-local (a day or so away by wagon train) but had never found myself in those parts before. I dismounted my trusty steed and found myself suddenly torn from 1850 and thrust into 2024. The calming words of a gentle breeze blowing through the Salinas River Valley’s oak trees suddenly but gracefully transitioned into the friendly urging of Adam Montiel urging me to check out his friends at the General Store. Clarence was replaced by Jessica (I think…? Many apologies if I botched it — I’m not so great with names!) and a brightly lit, warm and engaging assortment of books, treats, candles and other gifts that tempted me somethin’ powerful.
I browsed the aisles as the proprietress helped steer me to just the cure for what was ailin’ the expectant missus back at the homestead (spoiler alert: Paso Almonds and candy. Sweet, delicious candy)
Checkout was as easy as (grandmama’s fresh huckleberry) pie, and I ambled off into the sunset, content knowing that, despite not getting the 50 pounds of sarsaparilla I’d originally set out to obtain, my work was done.
Many thanks to the ladies at the General Store… Tell them that the Kind Stranger sent ya — better yet, tell them...
Read moreA Hidden Gem in Paso Robles! This place is absolutely fantastic! I stopped in during a busy day before the holidays and was so glad I did. The store has an amazing selection, and the staff couldn’t have been more welcoming and helpful. Several of the owners were working alongside their wonderful team, creating such a friendly and inviting atmosphere.
What I loved most was hearing that much of the inventory is sourced from local artists, with several fair trade options available—such a thoughtful approach to curating their goods. I found a few unique items to bring home and couldn’t resist coming back a couple of hours later for more!
If you’re in Paso Robles, this shop is a must-visit. It’s the perfect spot for gifts or something special for yourself....
Read moreBilled as purveyors of “local goods and provisions for pantry and home,” this charming little store was a lovely place to stop and shop during our brief walking tour of downtown Paso Robles. We purchased a sturdy 30-piece puzzle and Negranti’s Strawberry & Basil Sheep’s Milk Ice Cream, two perfect indulgences for spending quality time with a grandchild while her parents were enjoying quality time of their own. This would be a great place to purchase a unique birthday present or a shower gift. The items are not inexpensive, but they...
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