NOT FOUND: 1009-NSN-Sept-final_Page_03_Image_0001.jpgIn staying with the theme of “stay-cations”, the perennial, low cost version of a vacation - might we suggest a trek to Lincoln? Much of the glory of our region is in the wondrous selection of great meals in tiny towns that dot the landscape, from Auburn to Colfax and beyond. Lincoln is closer in elevation (and distance) and yet for those who are less familiar with the town, it can seem a lifetime away.

Taking the stretch of the “newer” portion of Highway 65 can almost convince you otherwise as the expanse of lanes leading to Twelve Bridges still smells of new development. And yet the asphalt narrows to the brick facades of structures that are older than the trees. New business resides in most of those stone edifices - businesses that have become family favorites, like Awful Annie’s.

It might sound terrible -- but you’re not in for anything less than home cooked deliciousness and some of the best waffles you’ve ever had.

Yes -- put the Bisquick down. Stop playing around and get some really good waffles.

Something that you may not see on the menu are crab cakes Eggs Benedict. I have got to tell you -- if you’re eating them right away while the crab cakes are still hot and crispy--it’s one of the best things on the menu. But I recommend you split an order. The English muffins are provided fresh from a local bakery, the hollandaise is from scratch and its all topped with fresh tomato and avocado. It’s something else.

But for goodness sake…order one of those waffles.

The turkey club is classic, the salads are fresh along with fresh fruit and whipped cream garnish but what makes Awful Annie’s exceptional is the ambience and the unique flavors incorporated into traditional favorites. From the colorful aprons hanging on the clothesline high above the calico tablecloths to the collectibles, antiques and spoon collections hanging on the wall. Try something unique, try something you’ve never had before.

Ask for the owners and tell them the North Sacramento News sent you.

When in Lincoln, we took our time, slowing to the pace of the afternoon traffic so we made a stop at another landmark. Simple Pleasures has been there for more than 30 years. When Doris opened the shop workers would stop in for coffee and pastries before their morning deliveries. Now she works in the kitchen occasionally with her daughters who now run the place with the same warm, welcoming presence that has been there for decades.

Familiar faces stop by for breakfast, lunch or a snack stop to say hello and have a piece of pie and some sweet tea.

Like Georgia sweet tea.

Hot tea, coffee, espresso …this sandwich shop has it all. They also offer a selection of specialty sodas (pop) from ginger ale, cream soda and a low calorie root beer. Turkey, prime rib, vegetarian are served with a side of potato or green salad (excellent potato salad). I can highly recommend Rosie & Boo Boo’s, a delicious tuna melt made with premium albacore tuna and Swiss cheese. Desserts change daily but try the blackberry pie before summer is out and try to make it to the coconut cream pie when its just come out of the oven with a side of whip cream. It’s one of the best homemade pies I’ve ever had.

To walk off the calories, stop into the number of boutiques and art galleries that sell work by local artists and contain treasures unique to the community of Lincoln. “The Place” is the newest art gallery in town on the corner of 5th and Highway 65. The Salt Mine Thrift Shop located at 454 F Street, is nearly across the street from Simple Pleasures on 5th Street. Awful Annie’s is on Highway 65 at 5th Street. **

**If you’re at all confused about addresses, Highway 65 is technically “G Street” when you’re driving in town. For the sake of description and so that it is easier to find the landmarks of listed. Use GPS or your internet browser for the exact addresses.

490 G St. Lincoln, CA 95648
916-645-9766

For more information and contact for some of the best places in Lincoln:
http://awfulannies1.homestead.com
http://www.cateringbysimplepleasures.com
http://www.theplacegallery.com
http://thesaltminelincoln.com