Just off of Highway 68 lies a secret sanctuary that is waiting for you to discover. The Chamisal Tennis & Fitness Club sits just off of Los Laureles Road and is well-known to those in the tennis world as it holds several professional tournaments including the US Open National Playoffs.
I decided to scope out this mysterious property with a club tour. The drive from Monterey was a quick 15 minutes and lead me to the sprawling sports sanctum in no time. The fitness and tennis facility has been in operation for over 40 years with many of its inaugural guests still as acting members, and it's easy to see why.
The pristine and tree-laden property has 13 hard courts (eight of which are lighted), two outdoor swimming pools, two spas, childcare facilities, a fitness center and a plethora of group exercise classes.
The pools alone had me sold. Both the adult lap pool and family pool remain heated at a comfortable 78 degrees and are lined with plenty of lounge chairs, perfect for those who simply wish to enjoy the valley views.
The fitness room upstairs is well-maintained and includes all of the cardio, weightlifting and circuit training essentials. The fitness center leads into separate men and women locker rooms which each have their own steam room.
After the tour I stopped into the Courtside Bistro which is luckily open to non-members. The restaurant's dining room reminded me of a cozy lodge complete with high vaulted ceilings, a large stone fireplace, rustic wood paneling and relaxing atmosphere. There is even a great bar with an extensive beer and local wine list, definitely not your average club café!
Being in Monterey's "sun belt" I opted to sit on the outdoor patio overlooking a few of the tennis courts. While soaking in the sun I couldn't help but notice a strange rock formation in the distance. Apparently it's known as "Castle Rock" and is referenced in John Steinbeck's novel "Pastures of Heaven." Word has it that it's particularly stunning during sunset when the formation has a golden hue.
Speaking of pastures of heaven, the bistro sources its produce straight from the Salinas Valley. The lunch menu was full of tempting (and fresh) appetizers, salads and sandwiches; I opted for the roasted beet salad while my buddy ordered the cheddar bacon cheeseburger.
We could literally smell the burger as it was being prepared. A large ciabatta bun oozed with white cheddar cheese and savory beef all topped with crispy bacon. The French fries were crisp and right out of the fryer.
My hefty dose of chopped Salinas Valley greens came topped with roasted beets, hunks of feta cheese and grilled chicken. The sweetness and acidity from the house made balsamic vinaigrette made the fresh ingredients shine!
At an average of $10-$12 per entrée this place is really a steal for its top-notched quality, exceptional service and relaxed atmosphere! The Courtside Bistro is open 7 days a week from 11am-9pm for lunch and dinner.
Interested in fitness and/or tennis memberships? Call (831)484-1135 to schedule a tour. Need a tennis lesson but not a member? No problem, lessons are open to the public.
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Friday, October 24, 2014
Baum & Blume and The Carriage House in Carmel Valley
Transport yourself into a charming European café in the heart of sunny Carmel Valley Village. Baum & Blume and The Carriage House offer not one, not two but five things in one warm German-esque atmosphere. The Wenzler family affair includes a cozy café, Biergarten, catering company, gourmet take-out and boutique all in one!
Needing a dose of Oktoberfest I headed to the quaint café and shop tucked up El Caminito Road just across from Bernardus Winery's tasting room. The modest storefront resembles a humble home which is suiting since you feel like family once you enter.
As soon as I pulled up I was immediately greeted with a warm welcome by owners (and siblings) Derek, Deborah and Diane. It's truly a family run business as Deborah was manning the café, Derek was hard at work in the open-aired kitchen and Diane was tidying up the boutique gift shop, aka The Carriage House.
Before Deborah could give me the low-down on the day's specials Derek invited me into the kitchen for a sneak peek into their famous fruitcakes. Now these are not your stereotypical fruitcakes that you mass order from your grandma's catalogs. These specialty holiday cakes are treated with tender loving care; the trio even travels to the Central Valley to pick up fresh raisins and other fruits for the ingredients. The entire process takes several weeks and makes for a wonderful Christmas gift!
After my stint in Derek's kitchen I was seated in the sundrenched patio which also transforms into a German Biergarten Thursday through Saturday from 3pm-7pm with all sorts of food specials and beers, of course.
The menu was full of fall findings like a Harvest Vegetable Shepherd's Pie and an Oktoberfest Special with grilled bockwurst and red cabbage. I finally opted for the Autumn Salad while my buddy ordered the Pecan-Crusted Chicken.
Little did we know, Derek prepared an amuse-bouche before our main courses. The tasty hors d'œuvres were made of bite-sized slices of pumpernickel toast, slathered with a chunky apricot chutney and topped with smoked salmon. The fruity chutney had a kick of ginger which went well with the mildly smoky flavor of the fish.
Soon after, my salad arrived which looked like it had just been picked straight from the garden. A mound of butter lettuce was carefully topped with sweet apple slices, shaved fennel, picked shallots, rye croutons and toasted walnuts. I was particularly pleased that it was very lightly dressed in walnut oil vinaigrette, not taking away from the natural flavors of the ingredients.
The pecan-crusted chicken smelled delightful ! Juicy chicken slices were topped with a rich and creamy Dijon-sour cream reduction sauce with a side of garlic-roasted carrots. I could not believe this gourmet dish was only $11.95!
Not wanting to leave I popped over to The Carriage House to scope out some of their always changing boutique items. I particularly love their assortment of craft jewelry and card offerings.
Doing anything November 8th or 9th? Head to Baum & Blume's Open House where Christmas comes early! Shop for curated gifts and decor in The Carriage House Boutique while enjoying hosted wine tastings from California vintners, hors d'oeuvres from the kitchen, chef demos, craft demos and more.
Baum & Blume and the Carriage house is open for lunch, dinner and take out Wednesday through Saturday from 12pm-7pm.
Needing a dose of Oktoberfest I headed to the quaint café and shop tucked up El Caminito Road just across from Bernardus Winery's tasting room. The modest storefront resembles a humble home which is suiting since you feel like family once you enter.
As soon as I pulled up I was immediately greeted with a warm welcome by owners (and siblings) Derek, Deborah and Diane. It's truly a family run business as Deborah was manning the café, Derek was hard at work in the open-aired kitchen and Diane was tidying up the boutique gift shop, aka The Carriage House.
Before Deborah could give me the low-down on the day's specials Derek invited me into the kitchen for a sneak peek into their famous fruitcakes. Now these are not your stereotypical fruitcakes that you mass order from your grandma's catalogs. These specialty holiday cakes are treated with tender loving care; the trio even travels to the Central Valley to pick up fresh raisins and other fruits for the ingredients. The entire process takes several weeks and makes for a wonderful Christmas gift!
After my stint in Derek's kitchen I was seated in the sundrenched patio which also transforms into a German Biergarten Thursday through Saturday from 3pm-7pm with all sorts of food specials and beers, of course.
The menu was full of fall findings like a Harvest Vegetable Shepherd's Pie and an Oktoberfest Special with grilled bockwurst and red cabbage. I finally opted for the Autumn Salad while my buddy ordered the Pecan-Crusted Chicken.
Little did we know, Derek prepared an amuse-bouche before our main courses. The tasty hors d'œuvres were made of bite-sized slices of pumpernickel toast, slathered with a chunky apricot chutney and topped with smoked salmon. The fruity chutney had a kick of ginger which went well with the mildly smoky flavor of the fish.
Soon after, my salad arrived which looked like it had just been picked straight from the garden. A mound of butter lettuce was carefully topped with sweet apple slices, shaved fennel, picked shallots, rye croutons and toasted walnuts. I was particularly pleased that it was very lightly dressed in walnut oil vinaigrette, not taking away from the natural flavors of the ingredients.
The pecan-crusted chicken smelled delightful ! Juicy chicken slices were topped with a rich and creamy Dijon-sour cream reduction sauce with a side of garlic-roasted carrots. I could not believe this gourmet dish was only $11.95!
Not wanting to leave I popped over to The Carriage House to scope out some of their always changing boutique items. I particularly love their assortment of craft jewelry and card offerings.
Doing anything November 8th or 9th? Head to Baum & Blume's Open House where Christmas comes early! Shop for curated gifts and decor in The Carriage House Boutique while enjoying hosted wine tastings from California vintners, hors d'oeuvres from the kitchen, chef demos, craft demos and more.
Baum & Blume and the Carriage house is open for lunch, dinner and take out Wednesday through Saturday from 12pm-7pm.
Monday, October 20, 2014
Hidden Treasures on Cannery Row, Monterey
With the Monterey Bay Aquarium as an anchor, fresh seafood joints scattered about, a rich history, and a plethora of land and sea activities it's no wonder why Cannery Row is one of California's most visited attractions. With so much to choose from we have cherry-picked just a few noteworthy locations to make sure you make the most out of your next visit.
Sample your way around Monterey County's various wine regions without ever leaving Cannery Row! A Taste of Monterey offers wines from over 95 local wineries with a side of expansive views of the Monterey Bay. Grab a glass of vino, savor a small (or large) bite and enjoy the activity out on the bay; you might even spot a playful sea otter or a whale spout out in the distance!
600 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93950
You can't help but shout "ole" at this next seaside gem. It's always 5'clock at El Torito where there is a margarita to quench any thirst and a south-of-the-border dish to please any palate. Taco Tuesday offers up tacos for just $1.50 which is a good thing since you won't want to leave after seeing their breathtaking vistas. Be sure to order a side of their fresh tableside guacamole which is made right in front of you and made to your exact specifications.
In my book, the Blue Fin Café & Billiards easily has one of the best views of Cannery Row. The upstairs venue overlooks the heart of the busy row accompanied by great food, a full bar, foosball, darts and lots of billiards! Check out their schedule of theme nights throughout the week including country night, salsa night, NFL football night and karaoke night.
685 Cannery Row, Suite 101, Monterey, CA 93940
Enjoy a slice of hometown Americana at Johnny Rockets across from the famed Steinbeck Plaza. The friendly (and sometimes dancing) staff, ‘50s diner décor, cozy comfort foods, and jukebox tunes are sure to bring back nostalgic moments. I recommend having the Orange Dreamsicle shake which is truly a dream come true!
The seafood here is so fresh you might be able to see if off the deck from where you dine. The Fish Hopper at the end of Steinbeck Plaza is world class dining at its best. The clam chowder samples out front alone are sure to suck you in. Once inside you won't be disappointed with its amazing views, fun drink menu and outstanding seafood dishes like seafood paella, Cajun mahi mahi and lobster pasta.
Kids at heart love to get the lost in the Monterey Mirror Maze. If the psychedelic setting, high tech lighting and heart-pumping music isn't challenging enough, head next door for a round of competitive mini golf at Highway 1 Golf, Games & Grub. The 9-hole course is centered on the California Highway One road trip all by 3D and black light. Wash down all the excitement at their grub station with all sorts of fun treats like corn dogs, icees, funnel cakes and mini donuts!
701 Wave St, Monterey, CA 93940
The Sardine Factory may not be a secret but it certainly deserves a spot on the list for its hidden gem downstairs. The secluded wine cellar is tucked just below the beautiful conservatory with a medieval-style cellar room available for private parties. The main dining rooms upstairs have hosted a plethora of celebrities, politicians and sports figures throughout its 47 year stint; it was even featured in Clint Eastwood's thriller "Play Misty for Me."
If meat is on your mind the Whaling Station Steakhouse is bound to curb your craving. At Monterey's only dedicated steakhouse you can choose your very own USDA Prime cut of dry-aged beef from a silver tray, a Prime Rib from the antique 1930's silver carving trolley, and watch your Caesar Salad being tossed tableside. For a more casual (and affordable) setting opt for their bar menu which offers their mouth-watering Prime Rib French Dip.
Just across the way from the Whaling Station sits a builder's dream, perhaps because its owner comes from a line of successful architects. Wave Street Studios is a decked out event venue with a sprung dance floor, studio sound system, live streaming service and even heated benches! The beautifully designed 3-level green property is complete with aesthetically pleasing additions like a waterfall, manicured succulent gardens and native granite rock walls; no added décor needed and the perfect spot for their Kundalini Yoga classes!
A Taste of Monterey Wine Market & Bistro
700 Cannery Row, Suite KK 2nd Floor, Monterey, CA 93940Sample your way around Monterey County's various wine regions without ever leaving Cannery Row! A Taste of Monterey offers wines from over 95 local wineries with a side of expansive views of the Monterey Bay. Grab a glass of vino, savor a small (or large) bite and enjoy the activity out on the bay; you might even spot a playful sea otter or a whale spout out in the distance!
El Torito
600 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93950
You can't help but shout "ole" at this next seaside gem. It's always 5'clock at El Torito where there is a margarita to quench any thirst and a south-of-the-border dish to please any palate. Taco Tuesday offers up tacos for just $1.50 which is a good thing since you won't want to leave after seeing their breathtaking vistas. Be sure to order a side of their fresh tableside guacamole which is made right in front of you and made to your exact specifications.
Blue Fin Café & Billiards
685 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940In my book, the Blue Fin Café & Billiards easily has one of the best views of Cannery Row. The upstairs venue overlooks the heart of the busy row accompanied by great food, a full bar, foosball, darts and lots of billiards! Check out their schedule of theme nights throughout the week including country night, salsa night, NFL football night and karaoke night.
Johnny Rockets
685 Cannery Row, Suite 101, Monterey, CA 93940
Enjoy a slice of hometown Americana at Johnny Rockets across from the famed Steinbeck Plaza. The friendly (and sometimes dancing) staff, ‘50s diner décor, cozy comfort foods, and jukebox tunes are sure to bring back nostalgic moments. I recommend having the Orange Dreamsicle shake which is truly a dream come true!
The Fish Hopper
700 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940The seafood here is so fresh you might be able to see if off the deck from where you dine. The Fish Hopper at the end of Steinbeck Plaza is world class dining at its best. The clam chowder samples out front alone are sure to suck you in. Once inside you won't be disappointed with its amazing views, fun drink menu and outstanding seafood dishes like seafood paella, Cajun mahi mahi and lobster pasta.
Monterey Mirror Maze & Lazer Challenger - Highway 1 Golf, Games & Grub
751 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940Kids at heart love to get the lost in the Monterey Mirror Maze. If the psychedelic setting, high tech lighting and heart-pumping music isn't challenging enough, head next door for a round of competitive mini golf at Highway 1 Golf, Games & Grub. The 9-hole course is centered on the California Highway One road trip all by 3D and black light. Wash down all the excitement at their grub station with all sorts of fun treats like corn dogs, icees, funnel cakes and mini donuts!
Sardine Factory
701 Wave St, Monterey, CA 93940
The Sardine Factory may not be a secret but it certainly deserves a spot on the list for its hidden gem downstairs. The secluded wine cellar is tucked just below the beautiful conservatory with a medieval-style cellar room available for private parties. The main dining rooms upstairs have hosted a plethora of celebrities, politicians and sports figures throughout its 47 year stint; it was even featured in Clint Eastwood's thriller "Play Misty for Me."
Whaling Station Steakhouse
763 Wave St, Monterey, CA 93940If meat is on your mind the Whaling Station Steakhouse is bound to curb your craving. At Monterey's only dedicated steakhouse you can choose your very own USDA Prime cut of dry-aged beef from a silver tray, a Prime Rib from the antique 1930's silver carving trolley, and watch your Caesar Salad being tossed tableside. For a more casual (and affordable) setting opt for their bar menu which offers their mouth-watering Prime Rib French Dip.
Wave Street Studios
774 Wave St, Monterey, CA 93940Just across the way from the Whaling Station sits a builder's dream, perhaps because its owner comes from a line of successful architects. Wave Street Studios is a decked out event venue with a sprung dance floor, studio sound system, live streaming service and even heated benches! The beautifully designed 3-level green property is complete with aesthetically pleasing additions like a waterfall, manicured succulent gardens and native granite rock walls; no added décor needed and the perfect spot for their Kundalini Yoga classes!
Friday, October 3, 2014
On a Mission to Soledad: Mission Nuestra Senora de la Soledad
Mission Nuestra Senora de la Soledad (or Soledad Mission for short) is just one of the three missions in Monterey County and the newest; that is if you think 1791 is new.
Named after "Our Lady of Solitude" the Soledad Mission is the 13th of the 21 California Missions and like many of its "sister" properties it has quite the view! Nestled in the Salinas Valley the mission is surrounded by lush lettuce fields, countless rows of vineyards and epic views of sunny hillsides.
The mission is right off of Highway 101 making it the perfect pit stop to include on your road trip to Monterey or during a River Road Wine Trail excursion.
At first glance the mission doesn't look like much, but once you step out of the car and onto the property you can see why the padres set up shop at this location. The natural beauty and solitude make for a great place of worship and the grounds are pristine! Rose bushes, palm trees and manicured gardens frame the simple structure rooted in California's history.
The current chapel is actually a recreation of the original since the first structure was destroyed in three separate floods. Whether you are religious or not the chapel is sure to give you goose bumps. The interior is intimate with no more than 20 rows of pews; rustic wooden beams protrude from the thick white adobe walls and "Our Lady of Sorrows" sits high above the modest alter.
A quaint gift shop sits right outside of the chapel full of boutique crosses, rosaries and other religious items. Through the gift shop you enter the museum which walks you through the different eras of the mission, including the native, mission and rancho periods.
Out back you will find the ruins of the mission which is where the initial church stood. You can still see remnants of the original walls as well as the marked graves of Governor Arrillaga and Father Ibanez dating back to the late 1700s.
Soledad Mission's grounds are open 10am-4pm, daily. For more information visit the official website.
Named after "Our Lady of Solitude" the Soledad Mission is the 13th of the 21 California Missions and like many of its "sister" properties it has quite the view! Nestled in the Salinas Valley the mission is surrounded by lush lettuce fields, countless rows of vineyards and epic views of sunny hillsides.
The mission is right off of Highway 101 making it the perfect pit stop to include on your road trip to Monterey or during a River Road Wine Trail excursion.
At first glance the mission doesn't look like much, but once you step out of the car and onto the property you can see why the padres set up shop at this location. The natural beauty and solitude make for a great place of worship and the grounds are pristine! Rose bushes, palm trees and manicured gardens frame the simple structure rooted in California's history.
The current chapel is actually a recreation of the original since the first structure was destroyed in three separate floods. Whether you are religious or not the chapel is sure to give you goose bumps. The interior is intimate with no more than 20 rows of pews; rustic wooden beams protrude from the thick white adobe walls and "Our Lady of Sorrows" sits high above the modest alter.
A quaint gift shop sits right outside of the chapel full of boutique crosses, rosaries and other religious items. Through the gift shop you enter the museum which walks you through the different eras of the mission, including the native, mission and rancho periods.
Out back you will find the ruins of the mission which is where the initial church stood. You can still see remnants of the original walls as well as the marked graves of Governor Arrillaga and Father Ibanez dating back to the late 1700s.
Soledad Mission's grounds are open 10am-4pm, daily. For more information visit the official website.
A Food Tour through Marina, CA
Marina is home to iconic sandy beaches, CSU Monterey Bay and the mountain biking mecca that is Fort Ord National Monument, but did you know it's also a local's haven for great food at great prices? Slightly off of Highway One lays the City of Marina where you are guaranteed to find an eatery to suit any palate.
Being the glutton that I am I attempted to try a handful of establishments, for research purposes of course. Below are just a few of the many choices in the area varying from Chinese, Italian to Vietnamese; for a full list of Marina restaurants click here.
Some of my favorite items included the orange chicken, spicy green beans and salt n' pepper fish. The spicy green beans with Szechuan shrimp particular hits the nail on the head encapsulating a spicy kick, sweet spike, and crunch all in one bite.
Dine in their family-friendly atmosphere or order for takeout! Either way it will be hard to save any leftovers.
I suggest tantalizing your taste buds with the house made Rueben! This masterpiece is loaded with sweet and spicy in-house brined pastrami, topped with luscious sauerkraut, slathered with Swiss cheese and a creamy Russian dressing all on a fresh toasted bun. Guzzle this with one of their craft sodas and you're in for a real treat!
Dishes Bistro & Grill
The calamari in particular is done just right. The tender and lightly breaded steaks make the perfect pair with the rich and creamy homemade tartar sauce.
The first thing I noticed at Noodle Bar was their wide array of boba teas ranging from avocado, mocha, green tea to pina colada. This time I ventured out of my norm and tried the taro flavor and it certainly won't be the last! It had just the right amount of sweetness and the boba pearls were refreshing as always.
I suggest nabbing a seat around their outdoor fire pit and ordering a few pupus. Their tropical cocktails alone are reason enough to make this a must!
Praline, taro, Oreo and Key Lime are just a few of the many tempting flavors in almost bite size mini options, and they are just $2 a piece!
I immediately gravitated towards the Caramel Pecan treat. The consistency and texture was spot on and their cozy lounge area made it easy to savor every morsel! Cheesecake Dreamations was the perfect slice of heaven to end an epic food tour through Marina.
Being the glutton that I am I attempted to try a handful of establishments, for research purposes of course. Below are just a few of the many choices in the area varying from Chinese, Italian to Vietnamese; for a full list of Marina restaurants click here.
Ho-Wah Chinese Restaurant
3116 Del Monte Blvd., Marina, CA 93933
Authentic Chinese food is hard to come by which is why Ho-Wah is such a gem! Ho-Wah's Hong Kong native owners know exactly what makes their food addicting with winning combinations of fresh local ingredients and absolutely no MSG.Some of my favorite items included the orange chicken, spicy green beans and salt n' pepper fish. The spicy green beans with Szechuan shrimp particular hits the nail on the head encapsulating a spicy kick, sweet spike, and crunch all in one bite.
Dine in their family-friendly atmosphere or order for takeout! Either way it will be hard to save any leftovers.
Wild Thyme Deli & Café
445 Reservation Road, Marina, CA 93933
Create your own picnic on Marina State Beach or dine in with mouthwatering options from Wild Thyme Deli. Here you will find a plethora of side salads, sandwiches, paninis and desserts.I suggest tantalizing your taste buds with the house made Rueben! This masterpiece is loaded with sweet and spicy in-house brined pastrami, topped with luscious sauerkraut, slathered with Swiss cheese and a creamy Russian dressing all on a fresh toasted bun. Guzzle this with one of their craft sodas and you're in for a real treat!
Dishes Bistro & Grill
330 Reservation Rd., Marina, CA 93933
Sit back and relax in the colorful Italian-esque dining room that is Dishes. Here you will find items like Mediterranean pizzas, jumbo raviolis, grass fed steaks and homemade desserts.
The calamari in particular is done just right. The tender and lightly breaded steaks make the perfect pair with the rich and creamy homemade tartar sauce.
Noodle Bar
215 Reservation Rd., Marina, CA 93933
Don't let the name fool you, the Noodle Bar has much more than noodles! This Vietnamese hot spot is chocked full of favorites like pho, spring rolls, steamed pork buns and boba teas.The first thing I noticed at Noodle Bar was their wide array of boba teas ranging from avocado, mocha, green tea to pina colada. This time I ventured out of my norm and tried the taro flavor and it certainly won't be the last! It had just the right amount of sweetness and the boba pearls were refreshing as always.
Kula Ranch Island Grill
3295 Dunes Dr., Marina, CA 93933
Continue your food journey with a trip to the Pacific Islands. Kula Ranch Island Grill serves up island-inspired plates like macadamia nut mahi mahi, Kalua pork and No Ka' Oi steaks.
I suggest nabbing a seat around their outdoor fire pit and ordering a few pupus. Their tropical cocktails alone are reason enough to make this a must!
Cheesecake Dreamations
265 Reservation Rd, Marina, CA 93933
What is a food tour without dessert? Cheesecake Dreamations is one of Marina's newest and hottest tenants offering exactly what the name implies, lots of various types of cheesecake! You can pre-order online and create your concoction or stop by their friendly storefront where you will have some tough decisions to make.Praline, taro, Oreo and Key Lime are just a few of the many tempting flavors in almost bite size mini options, and they are just $2 a piece!
I immediately gravitated towards the Caramel Pecan treat. The consistency and texture was spot on and their cozy lounge area made it easy to savor every morsel! Cheesecake Dreamations was the perfect slice of heaven to end an epic food tour through Marina.
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