Recently, Carmel Valley's most iconic hitching posts was sold by the founder of Bernardus Lodge to the folks down the street at Holman Ranch. Will's Fargo Steakhouse & Bar, found in the heart of cowboy country, may have new owners but don't let that "steer" you astray. The landmark's fresh proprietors, Nick Elliott and Hunter Lowder don't plan on changing a whole lot; they like most patrons fell in love with its rustic charm, friendly service and some of the most luscious steaks in Monterey County.
Upon entering you are greeted by the bar and saloon (complete with bar stools) which looks like it was plucked right out of an episode of Bonanza. The cowboy culture continues into the dining room with warm wooden character and beautiful landscape images of the area.
Another untouched gem with the ownership transition is Chef Jerome Viel. The France native has been the restaurant's executive chef for the past 12 years and lucky for us isn't going anywhere anytime soon. His seasonal menu is chalked full of the high quality meats and local veggies sourced just down the road at Earthbound Farms.
On a recent visit I was fortunate enough to post up on their enchanting patio for light bites and sips. The cozy bonfire and twinkling party lights make this a perfect setting for a full-on steak dinner or apps and drinks.
Speaking of drinks, their wine and cocktail menu is a hard one to beat. The Ruby Red Cosmo in particular is the perfect refreshment on the outdoor patio which has just the right amount of citrusy kick without being overly sweet.
I highly recommend the smoked duck tasters. The tender poultry was paired with sweet plum chutney which played nicely with the duck's subtle smoky flavors.
If there's bacon on it I'm going to eat it, especially if it's wrapped around jumbo shrimp and slathered in BBQ sauce! This winning sweet and savory combo had me going back for seconds.
The showstopper of the evening, by no surprise, was the rib eye; the scent alone will have you salivating before the dish even hits the table. This perfectly seared steak is simply seasoned with a few dashes of good ol' salt and pepper, no fancy sauces needed! I hate to sound cliché but every morsel literally melted in my mouth, as if it was straight butter!
Will's Fargo located at Carmel Valley Road and is open nightly for dinner beginning at 4:30pm.
Thursday, January 29, 2015
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Best Romantic Restaurants in Monterey County for any Budget
Monterey County was made with romance in mind and what better way to gaze into the eyes of your sweetheart then over a delicious meal. Whether you are looking to splurge or save, there is restaurant with romance in mind for any budget size.
Save
Think beautiful ocean views are always served up with a hefty price tag? Think again! The Beach House at Lover's Point not only overlooks the entire Monterey Bay but has an incredible Sunset Special menu. Lovebirds that dine in before 6pm can choose from an array of mouthwatering entrees for just $9.90 and enjoy a glass of wine or local brew for $3.90, talk about a bargain!
Nothing screams romance quite like Clint Eastwood's psychological thriller "Play Misty for Me," well maybe not, but one of the film's locations sure does! The iconic Sardine Factory on Cannery Row offers an Early Dinner menu with 3-courses for just $29. Diners can choose from entrées like Pacific Coast Sand Dabs, Capellini Pomodoro and Filet & Prawns. Ask to be seated in the conservatory room for a whimsical "Tavern on the Green" atmosphere.
Bask in the glow of outdoor fire pits and kick-back atmosphere at Kula Ranch Island Steakhouse in Marina. Hang loose during their nightly Happy Hour from 4pm-6:30pm and mix and match appetizers for just $2 each, saving plenty of cash for roses. Afterwards, head to the beach just outside and walk along the sandy beach during sunset.
Named as one of Travel + Leisure's "Best Cities in the World for Romance" Carmel-by-the-Sea is naturally a hotspot when scouting out a table for two. Aubergine inside the swanky L'Auberge Carmel is not only located in the heart of Carmel but is a premiere dining destination with a Food & Wine magazine "Best New Chef" and an ever-changing menu all set in an intimate and candlelit dining room.
Channel your inner celebrity couple and reserve a table cliff side at Sierra Mar Restaurant at the Post Ranch Inn. Infinite views of the Big Sur coastline and exceptional fine dining experience make this property a favorite amongst celebrity couples; Anne Hathaway and Andy Samburg even said their "I dos" on the property.
Take your sweetie on a trip to Tuscany within the lovely gates of Pebble Beach. Pèppoli at Pebble Beach is as authentic as you can get when it comes to Italian fare; the views of The Links at Spanish Bay are just the icing on the cake, or tiramisu. Be sure to indulge in a glass (or two) of an Antinori wine to really set the mood!
Romantic Hotels & Adventures
Extend your stay in magical Monterey and book a stay at one of these romantic rooms fit for a honeymoon!
Find a full list of amorous adventures with these Ideas for Romance including a sunset sail and spa day.
On a budget? Sweep your sweetheart off their feet without spending a bundle with these Romance on a Shoestring activities including a beach bonfire and wine tasting.
Save
Think beautiful ocean views are always served up with a hefty price tag? Think again! The Beach House at Lover's Point not only overlooks the entire Monterey Bay but has an incredible Sunset Special menu. Lovebirds that dine in before 6pm can choose from an array of mouthwatering entrees for just $9.90 and enjoy a glass of wine or local brew for $3.90, talk about a bargain!
Nothing screams romance quite like Clint Eastwood's psychological thriller "Play Misty for Me," well maybe not, but one of the film's locations sure does! The iconic Sardine Factory on Cannery Row offers an Early Dinner menu with 3-courses for just $29. Diners can choose from entrées like Pacific Coast Sand Dabs, Capellini Pomodoro and Filet & Prawns. Ask to be seated in the conservatory room for a whimsical "Tavern on the Green" atmosphere.
Bask in the glow of outdoor fire pits and kick-back atmosphere at Kula Ranch Island Steakhouse in Marina. Hang loose during their nightly Happy Hour from 4pm-6:30pm and mix and match appetizers for just $2 each, saving plenty of cash for roses. Afterwards, head to the beach just outside and walk along the sandy beach during sunset.
Splurge
Named as one of Travel + Leisure's "Best Cities in the World for Romance" Carmel-by-the-Sea is naturally a hotspot when scouting out a table for two. Aubergine inside the swanky L'Auberge Carmel is not only located in the heart of Carmel but is a premiere dining destination with a Food & Wine magazine "Best New Chef" and an ever-changing menu all set in an intimate and candlelit dining room.
Channel your inner celebrity couple and reserve a table cliff side at Sierra Mar Restaurant at the Post Ranch Inn. Infinite views of the Big Sur coastline and exceptional fine dining experience make this property a favorite amongst celebrity couples; Anne Hathaway and Andy Samburg even said their "I dos" on the property.
Take your sweetie on a trip to Tuscany within the lovely gates of Pebble Beach. Pèppoli at Pebble Beach is as authentic as you can get when it comes to Italian fare; the views of The Links at Spanish Bay are just the icing on the cake, or tiramisu. Be sure to indulge in a glass (or two) of an Antinori wine to really set the mood!
Romantic Hotels & Adventures
Extend your stay in magical Monterey and book a stay at one of these romantic rooms fit for a honeymoon!
Find a full list of amorous adventures with these Ideas for Romance including a sunset sail and spa day.
On a budget? Sweep your sweetheart off their feet without spending a bundle with these Romance on a Shoestring activities including a beach bonfire and wine tasting.
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