Bars & Nightlife - Best of Monterey Bay® 2008
Transcript of Bars & Nightlife - Best of Monterey Bay® 2008
40 The BesT of MonTerey Bay 2007 www.bestofmontereybay.com
bars & nightlifeThere are many attractions to see in Monterey County when the sun is up:
the artfully presented sea life at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the twisty Monterey Cypress trees clinging to the land at Point Lobos State Reserve
and the celebration of author John Steinbeck’s work at Salinas’ National Steinbeck Center. Luckily, after the sun falls into the sea each evening, there is also a diversity of nightlife to discover in the region.
Recently, Monterey County has benefited greatly from the restoration of two historic entertainment venues: Monterey’s Golden State Theatre and Salinas’ Fox Theater. Over the past year, the Golden State has hosted everything from Sci-Fi Film Week to heavyweight music acts like Willie Nelson and Etta James. Meanwhile, the Fox has presented shows by comedian Gabriel Iglesias and Poison frontman Bret Michaels.
The two stately venues are not the only places featuring nationally known acts these days. Carmel’s majestic Sunset Cultural Center has had folk icon Arlo Guthrie and skyrocketing singer/songwriter Jackie Greene grace its stage. Also, down in Big Sur, the Henry Miller Library has an eclectic offering of entertain-ment in the summer months from a festival of short films to musical events with Ramblin’ Jack Elliott and Jonathan Richman.
The Monterey Peninsula’s many nightclubs have plenty to entertain visitors while sipping on a local wine or tasty microbrew. Downtown Monterey’s Monterey Live has a smattering of touring national acts and local musicians almost every night of the week. Cannery Row’s Sly McFly’s has guaranteed music seven days a week with jazz, pop and blues bands. And for a true taste of Monterey’s hard rock and punk scene, wander over to Doc Rickett’s Lab, which is located half a block off busy Alvarado Street.
music and libations from big sur to salinas
locals’ Picks
BEST DANCE CLUBClub Octane/The HippodromeBEST CLUB FOR JAZZSly McFly’sBEST CLUB FOR ROCKMonterey LiveBEST PUBCrown and AnchorBEST SPORTS BARKnuckles
(bars & nightlife)
BERNARDUS LODGEWickets lounge hosts nightly live jazz, mixes
great martinis and cultivates a wonderful atmosphere. The bar offers views of beautiful Carmel Valley. 415 Carmel Valley Rd., Carmel Valley. 658-3550.
BRITANNIA ARMSImpressive pub-style setting, featuring many
domestic and imported beers, liquors, and occasional live music. Enjoy the roomy inte-rior and social atmosphere. 444 Alvarado St., Monterey. 656-9543.
BROPHY’S TAVERNThe cheesesteak is delicious—peppered
thin-sliced rib-eye, soft bread with American Swiss white cheese and Cheez Whiz, just like so many soldiers in Jersey do it. But there’s a lot more than the cheesesteak to recommend this place, including an expansive “upscale tavern” menu, great service, a cool atmosphere and flatscreen TVs. Fourth and San Carlos, Carmel. 624-2476.
BULLDOG BRITISH PUBBrits and Americans alike flock to this
English pub in New Monterey. The Bulldog’s got 16 domestic and international beers on tap, a big-screen TV and late-night pub grub, includ-ing burgers, salads, fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd’s pie. 611 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey. 658-0686.
BULLWACKER’SNothing beats having a beer outside
on a warm summer evening. The people at Bullwacker’s know this, and that’s why this bar and grill on Cannery Row has a big outdoor patio with a handful of fire pits. On weekends, bands and acoustic musicians perform. 653 Cannery Row, Monterey. 373-1353.
CARBONE’SThis biker-friendly local institution boasts
live entertainment and a terraced outdoor patio with an inviting fire pit. Enjoy a small but spir-ited dance floor, darts, pool and a full bar. 214 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey. 643-9169.
CHARACTERS SPORTS BAR AND GRILL
One of our readers’ favorite sports bars, and no wonder. This quintessential hangout boasts a dozen 19-inch TVs, a big screen, 16 beers on tap and an extensive menu. Live evening enter-tainment from Motown to disco to karaoke, enticing lunch specials, and savory bar snacks. 350 Calle Principal, Monterey. 647-4023.
CIBOKnown for its legendary martinis served in
oversized, 9-ounce martini glasses, Cibo is a favorite meeting spot for singles in their 30s and 40s. It’s a fun, crowded hangout with an urban attitude. Live jazz, funk, and Latin music
are featured in the evenings. 301 Alvarado St., Monterey, 649-8151.
CROWN AND ANCHOR PUBThis authentic pub brings royal England
to Monterey in the form of traditional nauti-cal decor, 20 beers on tap, fine single-malt Scotches and a full menu of hearty British and American food (sandwiches, meat pies, fish and chips). A heated outdoor patio rounds out its charms. 150 W. Franklin St., Monterey. 649-6496.
DOC RICKETT’S LABWith college night and drink specials, Doc’s
is pulsing on a typical weekend night. A full sushi bar is available and the stage is always holding up either a live band, karaoke crooner, comedian, or a group of dancing singles. 180 E. Franklin St., Monterey. 649-4241.
EASY STREET BILLIARDSMonterey’s easiest place to play pool, fea-
turing 13 tables. Enjoy a brew and listen to the jukebox while attempting to sink the elusive 8-ball. Appetizers like taquitos and cheeses-ticks are available for the hungry pool shark. Amateur drop-in tournaments, call for details. 511 Tyler St., Monterey, 333-0825.
EDDIE’SYou never know what you’ll get at this favor-
ite haunt of local characters — a rock show or a Central Asian belly-dancing band. Either way, it’s a great slice of local life and a guaranteed good time. Full bar. 2200 N. Fremont St., Monterey. 375-6116.
EDGAR’S RESTAURANTAll manner of high-quality food and bever-
ages can be found at Edgar’s at Quail Lodge. Seafood, pizza, hamburgers and a wide variety of appetizers are all served in a “relaxed, 19th-hole atmosphere.” Dining is available indoors and outdoors and there is also a walk-up patio bar overlooking the golf course. 8000 Valley Greens, Carmel Valley, 620-8910.
ENGLISH ALES BREWERYIn a comfortable neighborhood setting off
the main drag in Marina is the brewery that gives this region its preeminent local beer. The vibe is friendly and the barkeeps pour cask-con-ditioned, hand-pulled ales, including the widely acclaimed E.A. Pale Ale. 233-A Reindollar Ave., Marina, 883-3000.
THE HIPPODROMEFormerly Club Octane, this spacious
upstairs nightclub offers high-powered, high-tech, DJ-spun house, techno and hip-hop for your dancing pleasure. 321 D Alvarado St., Monterey, 646-9244.
HYATT REGENCY INNOne of the best deals in town for jazz lovers,
the Hyatt features regional jazz artists every
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TRY A 4-OUNCE TASTING FOR ONLY $1
Ask for us in pubs, restaurants and stores!
Open Daily 12pmPub Food Served All-Day
223 A. Reindollar Ave • Marina • 883-3000
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Friday and Saturday evening in the lounge, where patrons can enjoy wine, a cocktail and a nibble indoors or al fresco. 1 Old Golf Course Way, Monterey, 647-2098.
JACK LONDON’S BAR AND GRILL
A friendly atmosphere and N’Awlins-accented pub grub make Jack’s a locals’ favorite—but two nice rooms and a handful of courtyard tables leave room enough for visitors in the know. The burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches or nightly specials can be enjoyed at a cozy corner table or at the bar with a view of the ballgame. Dolores and Fifth, Carmel. 624-2336.
KNUCKLES HISTORICAL SPORTS BAR
Two satellite dishes and 13 TV screens show all the sports action. Burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and free popcorn and peanuts abound. For those who aren’t satisfied with the typical beer bottle, Knuckles offers 25-ounce mugs. Add two pool tables to the mix and you have a fun hangout for sports fans. Hyatt Regency, 1 Old Golf Course Way, Monterey, 372-1234.
LONDON BRIDGE PUBLocated a few steps from Monterey harbor,
London Bridge Pub is one of the most welcom-ing bars around. Inside, choose from 15 beers on tap or an extensive menu including fish and chips, burgers and homemade desserts. Outside, sit at a picnic table under a heat lamp and look out over the docked boats. Municipal Wharf #2, Monterey. 655-2879.
THE LOUNGE AT THE SARDINE FACTORY
Remodeled and revamped a few years ago, this casual room, with its couches, cozy cor-ners and live music, has become Cannery Row’s newest stylish watering hole—and the ter-rific small plates from the legendary restaurant adds a dash of sophistication. 701 Wave St., Monterey. 373-3775.
MAIDEN PUBLICK HOUSEOverflowing with personality, this Big Sur
pub and sports bar features 95 craft and European beers and a full bar menu. Next to the Big Sur River Inn. Village Center Shops, Highway 1, Big Sur. 667-2355.
MISSION RANCHHistoric Mission Ranch, purchased and
restored by Clint Eastwood, is a popular meet-ing place for singles. Three fireplaces, green postbeam ceilings and expansive views equal any on the Peninsula. A wonderful place to enjoy a Scotch or two; the piano bar charms nightly. 26270 Dolores, Carmel. 625-9040.
MONTEREY LIVEThis state-of-the-art, intimate performance
venue can accommodate up to 100 spectators. The gorgeous Spanish-accented room hosts everything from performances by dance ensem-bles to concerts by acoustic artists and rock bands. Full bar, food menu, espresso drinks. 414 Alvarado St., Monterey. 646-1415.
MOSS LANDING INNThe Whole Enchilada serves bar customers
until 9:30pm. After that, burritos are served from the kitchen. Pool table, live entertain-ment on the weekends, karaoke, and five beers on tap. 7902 Highway 1, Moss Landing. 633-3038.
(bars & nightlife)
42 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY 2008 • 2009 W W W.BESTOFMONTERE YBAY.COM
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CARMEL’S NEWEST HOT SPOT • LOCAL MICROBREW ALES
4TH & SAN CARLOS, CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA • 831-624-2476
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FarthingTavern
The Penny
British owned & operated - Family friendly9 East San Luis Street
Olde Town Salinas831-424-5652
English American MenuDaily Specials22 Draft Taps
Fine Ales and Spirits
British Pub & RestaurantEstablished 1984
The warmest, friendliest, snugliestpub in Monterey County
Open 7 days a weekLunch and Dinner
Full bar Royal Banquet Room
Sports Lounge
Friday: British Pub Club SceneMonday: Darts
Tuesday: Trivia Night
’07Best Bar for Darts!’08
LateNight
Pub Food
611 Lighthouse Avenue Monterey • 831-658-0686
Kitchen open… Sun-Thurs 11:30am-midnight Fri and Sat 11:30am-1:30am
‘04 Best Neighborhood Bar‘04-‘06 Best Bar for Darts
Happy Hours Mon-Fri 4-7pmBar Open 7 days 11:30am-2am
THE MUCKY DUCKOne of the area’s favorite
neighborhood bars, with 21 international beers on draft and 70 different whiskey labels. The Duck’s expanded menu features traditional British pub favorites along with upscale cuisine. Relax in the garden patio or warm yourself on chilly nights around the open-pit fire-place out back, where there’s often a DJ playing. 479 Alvarado St., Monterey. 655-3031.
PELICAN TAVERNA full bar, starring local wines and a nice
selection of draft beers, complements the ocean view and a delicious lineup of dishes like Angus steak bites, hog-wrapped jalapeños and Maryland-style crab cakes. A great family-friendly atmosphere. Tin Cannery, 125 Ocean View Blvd., #126, Pacific Grove. 647-8200.
PENNY FARTHING TAVERNIt’s not a bar-- it’s a pub. This very British
establishment offers 22 beers on tap and
a menu of British and American food, served until 10pm every day of the week. Patrons can enjoy a game of darts in a warm and relaxed atmosphere or even sing karaoke. 9 E. San Luis, Salinas. 424-5652.
PETER B’S BREWPUB
The in-house brewery features 12 Carmel Brewing
Co. beers—seven of which are exclusive to the restaurant, including a pilsner, stout, raspberry and wheat ales. Watch the brewmaster at work from the comfort of red leather booths. Enjoy sourdough pizza, buffalo wings or a turkey burger. Portola Plaza Hotel, 2 Portola Plaza, Monterey. 649-2699.
THE PLANET Comedy is king at The Planet, which doubles
as an exciting dance club featuring rock, Latin and R&B music. Up-and-coming comedians work the crowd, and the dancing can’t be beat. 2110 N. Fremont St., Monterey, 373-1449.
SHANE’S IRISH BISTROThe only Irish pub in Monterey County,
Shane’s Irish Bistro has Harp and Guinness beers on tap along with pub fare like lamb stew. The cozy pub also has outdoor seating. 401 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey, 646-2005.
SLY MCFLY’SSly’s is a crucial player on the Central Coast
music scene. Local musicians jam here during the week, national talent comes through on weekends, and both locals and visitors enjoy the full bar and menu. 700 Cannery Row, Monterey. 372-3225.
THE TAP ROOMThe Tap Room includes a mix of locals,
tourists, and celebrities. A casual, but classy romantic interior and generous selection of bottled and microbrewery beers make it fun weekend. The Lodge at Pebble Beach, 1700 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, 625-8535.
(bars & nightlife)
Friday and Saturday evening in the lounge, where patrons can enjoy wine, a cocktail and a nibble indoors or al fresco. 1 Old Golf Course Way, Monterey, 647-2098.
JACK LONDON’S BAR AND GRILL
A friendly atmosphere and N’Awlins-accented pub grub make Jack’s a locals’ favorite—but two nice rooms and a handful of courtyard tables leave room enough for visitors in the know. The burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches or nightly specials can be enjoyed at a cozy corner table or at the bar with a view of the ballgame. Dolores and Fifth, Carmel. 624-2336.
KNUCKLES HISTORICAL SPORTS BAR
Two satellite dishes and 13 TV screens show all the sports action. Burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and free popcorn and peanuts abound. For those who aren’t satisfied with the typical beer bottle, Knuckles offers 25-ounce mugs. Add two pool tables to the mix and you have a fun hangout for sports fans. Hyatt Regency, 1 Old Golf Course Way, Monterey, 372-1234.
LONDON BRIDGE PUBLocated a few steps from Monterey harbor,
London Bridge Pub is one of the most welcom-ing bars around. Inside, choose from 15 beers on tap or an extensive menu including fish and chips, burgers and homemade desserts. Outside, sit at a picnic table under a heat lamp and look out over the docked boats. Municipal Wharf #2, Monterey. 655-2879.
THE LOUNGE AT THE SARDINE FACTORY
Remodeled and revamped a few years ago, this casual room, with its couches, cozy cor-ners and live music, has become Cannery Row’s newest stylish watering hole—and the ter-rific small plates from the legendary restaurant adds a dash of sophistication. 701 Wave St., Monterey. 373-3775.
MAIDEN PUBLICK HOUSEOverflowing with personality, this Big Sur
pub and sports bar features 95 craft and European beers and a full bar menu. Next to the Big Sur River Inn. Village Center Shops, Highway 1, Big Sur. 667-2355.
MISSION RANCHHistoric Mission Ranch, purchased and
restored by Clint Eastwood, is a popular meet-ing place for singles. Three fireplaces, green postbeam ceilings and expansive views equal any on the Peninsula. A wonderful place to enjoy a Scotch or two; the piano bar charms nightly. 26270 Dolores, Carmel. 625-9040.
MONTEREY LIVEThis state-of-the-art, intimate performance
venue can accommodate up to 100 spectators. The gorgeous Spanish-accented room hosts everything from performances by dance ensem-bles to concerts by acoustic artists and rock bands. Full bar, food menu, espresso drinks. 414 Alvarado St., Monterey. 646-1415.
MOSS LANDING INNThe Whole Enchilada serves bar customers
until 9:30pm. After that, burritos are served from the kitchen. Pool table, live entertain-ment on the weekends, karaoke, and five beers on tap. 7902 Highway 1, Moss Landing. 633-3038.
(bars & nightlife)LOCALS’ PICKS
BEST BAR FOR FOLKS OVER 50Mission RanchBEST LOCAL BREWERYEnglish AlesBEST SELECTION OF DRAFT BEERSCrown and Anchor
W W W.BESTOFMONTERE YBAY.COM THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY 2008 • 2009 43
444 Alvarado • Monterey • 656-9543www.britanniaarms.com
Traditional British FoodAt Affordable Prices Every Monday All-You-Can-Eat Fish & Chips Bangers & Mash Chicken Curry Soups, Salads & Sandwiches
Karaoke, Live Musicand Quiz NightsVoted Monterey County's Best Place for Karaoke
Big Screen TV For All Sporting EventsIncluding English Premier League, NHL, NBA,NFL, MLB, PGA and World Cup
24 Beers on Tap! Full Bar!Monday-Friday
Happy Hour 4-7pm!
’08
Night Club and LoungeNight Club and LoungeNight Club and LoungeNight Club and Lounge
321 Alvarado St. Downtown Monterey www.hippclub.com Fo r VIP p ac k ag e s, b o t t l e s e r v ic e a n d r e nt a l s c a l l 6 4 6 -924 4
12,000 square feet
The Largest Nightclub on the Central Coast
+21For more information call 831-646-9244 or go to www.hippclub.com
VOTED BEST DANCE CLUB AND BEST DJ 2008!
Nightly Drink Specials!
4 Rooms2 Levels
5 Dance Floors 12 Bar Stations
“THE FUN PLACE TO PLAY”