10.18.07
From the issue Golden Getaway
Eat & Sleep in Murphys, Gold Country
Eat: For a casual dining experience, order a meal from the counter at Firewood. The fish tacos are tasty and beer flows from six different taps. For a slightly more formal dining experience, feast on the traditional American fare at Grounds on Main Street; bring in a bottle of wine purchased from a local winery, and your corkage fee will be waived!Firewood, 420 Main St., Murphys; 209-728-3248.
Grounds, 402 Main St., Murphys; 209-728-8663.
Sleep: The attractive, tree-lined streets of downtown Murphys set the stage for a revitalizing weekend in the country. If you want to sleep in the heart of this charming Gold Rush town, Murphys Historic Hotel is your place. Built in 1856, this famous haunt has housed guests such as Ulysses S. Grant, Mark Twain, and J.P. Morgan. Today, the designated historic landmark is a throwback to the wild days of the nineteenth century, with antique wooden dressers, creaking hardwood floors, shared bathrooms, and the names of famous guests painted on room doors. New adjoining units have been added, offering standard rooms with private baths. There's also a great restaurant with patio seating on-site, and the lively saloon is a local hot spot. Some friendly advice: don't stay in a room above the saloon.
Murphys Historic Hotel, 457 Main St., Murphys; 209-728-3444.
Or for a truly elegant bed and breakfast, the newly built Victoria Inn will take good care of you.
