The Northern California Restaurant That’s One Of The Most Unique In America
There are some pretty tremendous restaurants in Northern California, but this cafe in a sleepy small town in Gold Country is one of the coolest and most unique places to eat in the whole country. Not only is the food delicious, but the historical building that the Cozmic Cafe where the located will transport you right back into the Gold Rush.
The Cozmic Cafe is located in the old John Pearson Soda Works building in Placerville. Much of Placerville burnt down in the 1850s. The current building you see today replaced what originally stood here.
In 1859, a Scottish immigrant, John Pearson, built this building in front of an abandoned mine shaft. His plan was to use the underground tunnels to keep ice cool.
In addition to the caves at the rear of the cafe, this place is packed with interesting flavors and artwork. Pictured here is the Asian rice bowl with turkey.
They specialize in Vegan and vegetarian options, but there are classics like turkey sandwiches and fish fillets on the menu, as well. Pictured here is the vegan BLT w/ Lightlife Fakin' Bacon.
The dance floor and stage in the upstairs is a popular venue for live music, but it is also used as a community meeting space. Tibetan Monks working on sand mandalas, yoga instructors, and other eclectic performances have all set up here to share their art with the Placerville community.
From the fantastic local artwork to the exposed brick walls, this place is the perfect combination of New Age and Gold Rush, a style that is totally unique to this part of Northern California.
Jill is a freelance writer from a small Northern California town and lives in the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you have an idea for an Only In Northern California story, email her at jsanford@onlyinyourstate.com.
