About
What do you get when you combine a kibbutz, non-GMO food, and organic espresso? The answer: GoodLife Cafe & Bakery draws crowds of vacationers and locals.
Our story centers around Teddy Winslow, who grew up in a kibbutz until her family moved to Northern California and joined a commune.
Fast forward to her adult life, and she spent about 25 years working in hospitality before pursuing her vision for GoodLife.
Initially, she had a co-owner, but soon became a sole proprietor while seven months pregnant. While some would be overwhelmed by the workload, Teddy saw it as an opportunity to reshape existing recipes and craft new ones. As a soon-to-be mother, she wanted to put wholesome nutrition into her baby, and she knew that’s what folks in Mendocino wanted as well.
While the story is heartwarming, it’s the food at GoodLife that puts it on the map. With locally sourced, non-GMO ingredients, you’re assured of organic nutrition. But don’t associate healthy food with bad-tasting! The baked goods and entrees are delicious, with some comfort classics tossed in for good measure.
Since it opens at 7:30 AM, it’s your go-to for hearty breakfasts before a fun-filled day exploring NorCal. Within walking distance is Mendocino Headlands State Park, the Ford House Visitor Center & Museum, and the Mendocino Art Center. With so much to see and do, your biggest challenge will be deciding where to start first!
Whether you visit for espresso or grab lunch after a day at Russian Gulch State Park, GoodLife Cafe & Bakery will satisfy your hunger with healthy, lip-smacking food.
Vibe
The curb appeal of this eatery is stunning. The pastel light-green wood facade is alluring, while the white trim resembles icing on a scrumptious cake. These blend right in with Mendocino’s old-town style.
Step inside, and you’ll find a space that’s comforting and straightforward. There are wooden floors, tables, and chairs throughout, creating a warm, rustic feel. The front counter is hard to miss, filled with pastries, bagels, and healthy baked goods. The room is open, sun-lit, and down-to-earth.
When it comes to seating, there’s a seat for everyone. Small groups settle in at cozy tables, couples share a meal, and solo visitors grab a coffee at the counter. The deck offers al fresco dining with patio heaters available on those foggy, chilly mornings.
Like its food, the overall atmosphere is organic, connecting you with the Mendocino Coast in a soul-satisfying manner.
GoodLife Cafe & Bakery: Menu & Drinks
Writing about food to recommend is challenging. Not because we’re limited with options, but because everything is over-the-top! With that disclaimer out of the way, let’s begin!
Breakfast is available until they close, offering a wide variety of options. Try an East Coast morning with the made-on-site NY-style bagels. Load it with lox or slather it with butter or various cream cheeses. And for a nominal charge, add microgreens or a slice of tomato to your custom handheld.
If you’re heading out to hike, the 3-egg omelets will supply the energy you need. You can choose the Veggie, Meat Lovers, or Green, which come with toast and your choice of home fries, salad, or sauteed vegetables.
The Breakfast Burrito is a massive meal consisting of scrambled eggs, potatoes, cheese, and your choice of extras, wrapped up in a warm tortilla.
At lunchtime, the offerings draw from Globe favorites like Asian-inspired bowls, Mexican-inspired cuisine, and American staples. The Stir Fry Bowl features your choice of protein, seasonal veggies, and a made-from-scratch tahini sauce. Cantina favorites range from street tacos to a torta, while the sandwiches add a touch of Americana to the menu.
The drink menu is equally impressive, with organic coffees, hot teas, and juices. The cold case is your go-to for cider, wine, and beer.
While we’ve run out of space to discuss baked goods, yogurt parfaits, and country-fried steak, trust us when we say you’ll be living the good life when you dine at GoodLife Cafe & Bakery.
Local Tips
- Order carry-out and enjoy back in your Casago rental.
- Grab-and-go items let you get sightseeing faster!
- GoodLife is a first-come, first-served restaurant; plan accordingly.
- Check the daily specials board and Facebook for specials.
