Discovering this bread was completely unexpected. We were in Atascadero, California for a weekend getaway and decided to grab a quick bite at the bakery located off the lobby of our hotel, The Carlton. The Art Cafe & Bakery, which recently moved into the old Carlton Bakery space, was busy for a good reason – the owner, Donna Nozzi, is an amazing baker. She's been fighting the location's past poor reputation, but clearly the word is getting around. She bakes her breads and pastries fresh everyday and even has a line of gluten-free products for those with food allergies. She uses local and organic products for her breakfast and lunch items and even the coffee is awesome – she uses Wolf – and we're pretty picky about our java.

There's almost no type of bread that doesn't make me drool, especially one that includes cheese baked into the crust, however, I'm not one for spicy/hot foods, so I wasn't quite sure if I would like this since it's studded with chunks of jalapeno. After a bit of arm twisting, I'm sure glad I gave it a try, though I know my waistline will suffer for it. It's the perfect mixture of chewy, soft and cheesy with just the right amount of heat. The loaf we just had to take with us made our car smell of yeasty goodness all the way home. She also makes a Fiery Pepperjack Bread that's actually famous thanks to Oprah. You can order any of Donna's creations and have them 2-day shipped to you. You don't have to worry about it spoiling before you eat all of it because the bread will freeze for 6 months without losing its' flavor or texture (she's tested it). Believe me it won't last that long. (805) 461-8300