Have you heard? Old Fisherman's Wharf staple, Rappa's Seafood Restaurant has recently changed ownership! New management is making a splash with increased quality to menu items and projects are in the works to further renovate for a whole new fresh look; there are even plans to paint the exterior a spick-and-span white!
The setting and prime anchor location at Rappa's truly differentiates itself from its other competitors on the wharf. Its impeccable 360 degree vistas of the Monterey Bay, upstairs viewing deck and playful sea life just below can simply not be beat.
It's obvious that Rappa's is fully aware of its spectacular surroundings. The open floor plan and simple interior décor lend the focus point to what's outside its countless windows giving every seat in the house a unique view of the harbor.
Enough about the views, let's talk about the food! The recently revamped lunch, dinner and dessert menus are mouthwatering to say the least. On a recent visit I had the opportunity to sample just a few of their current menu items.
A visit to Old Fisherman's Wharf just wouldn't be complete without some fried Monterey Bay calamari. Rappa's doesn't skimp when it comes to this Monterey favorite which offered a light and crispy panko breading on tender calamari. I didn't even need the squid boat crew outside the window to tell me this dish was fresh!
The favorite appetizer of the meal seemed to be their brand new bang-bang shrimp. Lightly fried and juicy shrimp were lathered in an irresistible creamy and spicy sauce which almost had us ordering seconds.
The baked oysters were a close second with their unusual yet welcome addition of artichoke hearts and crab gratin; this dish has a diverse mix of textures that definitely pleases the palate!
Sticking to the seafood theme we had Rappa's special of the day which to my delight was the seafood paella. Generous hunks of fresh fish, prawns, mussels, scallops, chicken and spicy sausage sat over perfectly seasoned saffron rice. The mussels were particularly satisfying and overall the dish was not too salty, as some paellas tend to be.
Just when we thought we thought we had met our stomach's capacity the desserts arrived. The crème brulee was classic and simply melt-in-your-mouth . It had just enough delicate burnt caramel topping for the soothing custard beneath. The chocolate mousse was exactly what I wanted it to be- creamy, rich and whipped to perfection!
Rappa's is also a great place to just grab a drink or dessert, although it will be hard to resist from other tantalizing items. During Happy Hour margaritas, mimosas and draft beers are available for $3 and desserts are an affordable $7.95 a piece.
Friday, July 11, 2014
Friday, June 20, 2014
The Forge in the Forest in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Travelers are always stopping by our Visitors Center wanting to know where they can go to get the quintessential Carmel-by-the-Sea experience. Without hesitation The Forge in the Forest is always sprinkled somewhere in the response. With its European character, cozy outdoor dining patio and tempting "world cuisine" it's no wonder why locals and visitors flock to this 40 year old Carmel-by-the-Sea staple.
Upon entering The Forge in the Forest you immediately feel as though you have been transported into a quaint German cottage. The non-flashy signage in the front is a great start to the kick-back culture inside, and out.
It is no wonder why this place consistently wins "Best Outdoor Dining in Carmel"; how can your resist a rustic brick fire pit, lush gardens and endless people watching opportunities along Junipero Street?
Most eateries like to say that they have something for everyone but The Forge in the Forest actually delivers on this promise, including a special menu just for dogs! The cuisine at the Forge in the Forest has always been extensive and new chef, Alfonso Martinez has further refined the menu with even more options and worldwide flavors.
With menu items ranging from curry, pizza, ceviche and filet mignon it is a chore in itself to choose just one dish. Luckily I was with a large indecisive group so we decided to dine "family style."
The first dish was a sweet and savory pairing of fried goat cheese and peaches flambé. I prefer my fired up peaches with a scoop of vanilla bean of ice cream but the fried goat cheese definitely comes as a close second. The creamy texture of the cheese and the natural sugars from the peaches were spot on.
The heirloom tomato was almost too pretty to eat! Thankfully someone at the table made the first cut into the tower of puff pastry, manchego cheese and roasted Salinas grown heirloom tomatoes.
Can you handle a Menage a Trois? That is filet mignon cooked three ways of course! Three petite filet mignons came presented upon scrumptious mashed potatoes, crispy onions and three different sauces; truly something for everyone at the table.
Indian Chicken Curry may not have been my first selection on the menu but boy was I glad someone ordered it! The lightly spiced curry sauce with hints of lemongrass and ginger was a welcomed treat smothered upon a bed of fresh vegetables and chunks of juicy chicken; even the cauliflower had been devoured within the first few seconds.
No meal at The Forge in the Forest is complete without their famed Cookie Skillet. A large cast-iron skillet comes bubbling hot out of the oven full of delicious chocolate chip cookie mix and heavy-handed dollops of vanilla ice cream and whipped cream. If that doesn't top off a meal I don't know what does!
Looking to host a reunion, wedding or a large party sometime soon? The Forge in the Forest has some of the largest banquet spaces in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Upon entering The Forge in the Forest you immediately feel as though you have been transported into a quaint German cottage. The non-flashy signage in the front is a great start to the kick-back culture inside, and out.
It is no wonder why this place consistently wins "Best Outdoor Dining in Carmel"; how can your resist a rustic brick fire pit, lush gardens and endless people watching opportunities along Junipero Street?
Most eateries like to say that they have something for everyone but The Forge in the Forest actually delivers on this promise, including a special menu just for dogs! The cuisine at the Forge in the Forest has always been extensive and new chef, Alfonso Martinez has further refined the menu with even more options and worldwide flavors.
With menu items ranging from curry, pizza, ceviche and filet mignon it is a chore in itself to choose just one dish. Luckily I was with a large indecisive group so we decided to dine "family style."
The first dish was a sweet and savory pairing of fried goat cheese and peaches flambé. I prefer my fired up peaches with a scoop of vanilla bean of ice cream but the fried goat cheese definitely comes as a close second. The creamy texture of the cheese and the natural sugars from the peaches were spot on.
The heirloom tomato was almost too pretty to eat! Thankfully someone at the table made the first cut into the tower of puff pastry, manchego cheese and roasted Salinas grown heirloom tomatoes.
Can you handle a Menage a Trois? That is filet mignon cooked three ways of course! Three petite filet mignons came presented upon scrumptious mashed potatoes, crispy onions and three different sauces; truly something for everyone at the table.
Indian Chicken Curry may not have been my first selection on the menu but boy was I glad someone ordered it! The lightly spiced curry sauce with hints of lemongrass and ginger was a welcomed treat smothered upon a bed of fresh vegetables and chunks of juicy chicken; even the cauliflower had been devoured within the first few seconds.
No meal at The Forge in the Forest is complete without their famed Cookie Skillet. A large cast-iron skillet comes bubbling hot out of the oven full of delicious chocolate chip cookie mix and heavy-handed dollops of vanilla ice cream and whipped cream. If that doesn't top off a meal I don't know what does!
Looking to host a reunion, wedding or a large party sometime soon? The Forge in the Forest has some of the largest banquet spaces in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Friday, June 6, 2014
10 Reasons to Visit Monterey County This Summer
1. Beat the Heat
Visitors looking to seek relief from triple digit temperatures should look no further than the Monterey Peninsula. Head out to Pebble Beach, Lovers Point or Marina State Beach to enjoy the bay's cool coastal breezes.Locals on the coast call this time of year "June Gloom", mainly due to the marine layer that tends to cover the land during the summer months. This marine layer keeps the coast nice and cool; which is exactly what the doctor ordered for those looking to "beat the heat."
The truth is that many find the fog banks are relaxing and soothing; just don't forget to bring a sweater! If fog isn't you're thing escape to Carmel Valley or the Salinas Valley where the sun is just a 15 minute drive away.
2. Make a Splash While Whale Watching
California is one of the only places in the world where visitors can see whales year-round, and there's no better place for whale watching than Monterey. In many areas whale watchers have to go far from shore to see a whale, along the Monterey coast whales can be seen offshore with the naked eye. The Monterey Submarine Canyon, the ocean's equivalent to the Grand Canyon, provides a perfect habitat for many species of whale, allowing them to come close to shore to feed. Land lovers will want to check out Point Lobos State Reserve for great vantage points to see these behemoths from land.Hands down the best viewpoint of these marine mammals is out on the ocean; several whale watching tours leave daily from Old Fisherman's Wharf and Moss Landing.
3. Quench Your Thirst
Wet your whistle with an array of award-winning wines and locally brewed craft beers. Monterey County is the one of the largest wine growing and producing regions in California with an abundant number of wineries and tasting rooms throughout the county. Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley and River Road in Salinas Valley provide an array of tasting rooms with stunning backdrops of vineyards and rolling hills while Carmel-by-the-Sea hosts over 10 tasting rooms within a one mile radius.The craft beer movement has exploded in recent years and Monterey is no stranger to the epidemic. There are several craft breweries and beer houses to ease your craving including the Peter B's Brewpub, Post No Bills, Cannery Row Brewing Company and the brand new Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill.
4. The Great Outdoors
Monterey County is a premier destination for those who love the outdoors. Biking, hiking, walking, boating, hang gliding and animal watching are just a few of the activities that lure visitors to Monterey and make residents thankful they live here.Whether you want to climb a mountain, walk the Recreation Trail or dive the depths, there is no more diverse place to enjoy the outdoors. Check out our list of the Top 10 Day Hikes in the area and a compete list of outdoor activities.
5. Get Your Game On
Golf is simply no fun when playing in the 100 degree heat, which is why Monterey is ideal for perfecting your game in our cool coastal temps! Pebble Beach and Cypress Point are not the only courses on the Monterey Peninsula wading in rich history, stunning scenery and memorable golf. Even if you bring a budget to this conversation - and, safe to say, most of us do - it's still possible to walk along majestic tree-lined fairways and enjoy a distinctive experience smacking around the little white ball.That's one of the beauties of golf in the Monterey area, it runs the gamut from breathtaking coastal beauty to inland courses set amid green, rolling hills. Some of the courses are strikingly affordable and others, while not exactly cheap, will not burn though your entire vacation budget. With well over 20 different courses such as Bayonet and Black Horse, Pacific Grove Golf Links, Quail Lodge Golf Club and the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Links, Monterey has something to offer every type of golfer.
6. Fresh Bounty from the County
Summertime is the best time for snagging the fruits of Monterey County's labor, literally! See why Salinas Valley is coined as the "Salad Bowl of the World" on an Ag Venture Tour where guide Evan Oakes will take you through a personal tour of working lettuce fields. Be sure to try some of our local produce straight from the fields at The Farm in Salinas, Earthbound Farms in Carmel Valley or The Wharf Marketplace near Old Fisherman's Wharf.Farmers' Markets are also a great way to "try and buy" in-season fruits and vegetables including strawberries, corn, summer squash, melons, and more. With a Farmers' Market scheduled almost every day of the week you are sure to find one that fits your schedule.
7. Hit the Road
No summer is complete without a road trip. Whether you're heading south from San Francisco to Los Angeles or north from Los Angeles to San Francisco, the most beautiful route available is for sure Highway One. Highway One has over 99 miles of breathtaking coastline, from Monterey through Big Sur and into San Luis Obispo, and has been declared an All-American Road Trip by the US Department of Transportation's National Scenic Byways Program and for good reason.Other beautiful byways include Carmel Valley Road, 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach, River Road through the Salinas Valley and Ocean Avenue and Scenic Road through Carmel-by-the-Sea.
8.Mark Your Calendar
June, July and August are jam-packed with events for just about everyone including music festivals, sports events and art celebrations. The Carmel Valley Art & Wine Celebration (June 21) brings out some of the best in local art while the Sand City West End Celebration (August 22-24) celebrates the arts in a much funkier fashion.Depending on your genres preferences, the Carmel Bach Festival (July 19-August 2) has everything for the classic music lover while the First City Festival (August 23-24) caters more towards the younger generation with headliners including Beck, The National and Phantogram.
If racing and adrenaline is more your speed than you will love the Superbike World Championship at Mazda Racewaway Laguna Seca (July 11-13) and the California Rodeo Salinas (July 17-20).
Summer wouldn't be complete without Monterey Auto Week (August 11-17). Classic automobiles take over the Monterey Peninsula, golf courses, parks and the world-renowned Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, surrounding visitors with automobiles from yesteryear. The grand finale takes place during the Concours d'Elegance on August 17 where 200 of the finest cars in the world are displayed at The Pebble Beach Golf Links. For a full list of events click here.
9. Get Campy
With acres upon acres of open space, Monterey County offers plenty of places to pitch a tent or park a recreational vehicle. Some of these campgrounds and RV parks offer shower facilities, hook-ups and barbecues. Others are primitive, with nothing more than a few signs here and there. Check out this list of the Top 10 Campsites spread throughout Big Sur and Monterey.Camping not your thing? Get the best of both the outdoors and modern luxuries at Treebones Resort in Big Sur. Here you will find the ultimate in glamping (or glamorous camping) with accommodations ranging from yurts, a tree house and even a human nest. Did we mention the restrooms come stocked with fresh cut flowers and hairdryers?
10. Want S'more?
What better way to enjoy a summer sunset than a beach bonfire? Curl up next to that someone special, share a bottle of wine (or a s'more), and watch nature's greatest show.Bonfires are allowed at several Monterey Bay beaches, including Carmel Beach and Del Monte Beach. Beach fires are permitted on Carmel Beach south of 10th Avenue and must be extinguished by 10pm. Fires should be 25 feet from the slopes and not exceed 3 feet in height or diameter.
Friday, May 23, 2014
Now Open: Poppy Hills Golf Course in Pebble Beach
Poppy Hills Golf Course - well known as one of the popular and prestigious courses in Pebble Beach, reopened its doors on April 4th after a year long top-to-bottom redesign with all sorts of jazzy upgrades.
The renovation was supervised by course architect Robert Trent Jones II, who created the layout back in 1986. For the renovation, his desire was to restore each hole to its natural elevation along the floor of the Del Monte Forest, dampen the doglegs and contours and remake all 18 greens with bent grass. The catalyst for the renovation was to find a way to improve drainage while conserving water.
In addition, Robert built a new 11th hole, which is now the shortest par 3 at Poppy Hills; created a new version of the 12th hole, which now tees off toward a picturesque ocean view and rolls downhill; and revitalized a seasonal creek that cuts in front of the new ninth green. In addition, the facelift includes vast improvements to not only the water system but to all teeing areas and bunkers along with widening the fairways and eradicating unnecessary sections of rough.
The course is run by the Northern California Golf Association and is open to the public with rates much more affordable than some of its neighbors down the street, starting at $210 for a tee time. Par at Poppy Hills has dropped from 72 to 71, but the yardage has increased from 6,863 to 7,002
If perfecting your golf game is more important than the views, Poppy Hills has you covered as it is the official headquarters of MTT Performance. "Make The Turn" is a high-performance coaching initiative for dedicated golfers to unlock their potential, while dramatically elevating their enjoyment for the game. Coach Jeff Ritter integrates training in golf skills, mindset, fitness and nutrition into a creative and engaging game-changing experience sure to boost your game.
Whether or not you are in to golf everyone should sample the flavor creations by Chef Johnny De Vivo (formally of Casanova in Carmel) at the recently renovated restaurant at Poppy Hills. Porter's features a kick-back and contemporary dining room, expansive outdoor patio with views of the course and outdoor fire pits are just the beginning to a diner's delight!
The farm-to-table menu is taken to a new level by featuring everything made from scratch including bread, beignets and even Johnny's cured meats; his smoked bacon is just sinful!
Don't skip out on breakfast as Johnny dishes up his freshly Memphis-style smoked corned beef served with hash; talk about being as far from your average snack shack at the golf course!
Porter's is currently open for breakfast, lunch and occasional dinner programs.
The renovation was supervised by course architect Robert Trent Jones II, who created the layout back in 1986. For the renovation, his desire was to restore each hole to its natural elevation along the floor of the Del Monte Forest, dampen the doglegs and contours and remake all 18 greens with bent grass. The catalyst for the renovation was to find a way to improve drainage while conserving water.
In addition, Robert built a new 11th hole, which is now the shortest par 3 at Poppy Hills; created a new version of the 12th hole, which now tees off toward a picturesque ocean view and rolls downhill; and revitalized a seasonal creek that cuts in front of the new ninth green. In addition, the facelift includes vast improvements to not only the water system but to all teeing areas and bunkers along with widening the fairways and eradicating unnecessary sections of rough.
The course is run by the Northern California Golf Association and is open to the public with rates much more affordable than some of its neighbors down the street, starting at $210 for a tee time. Par at Poppy Hills has dropped from 72 to 71, but the yardage has increased from 6,863 to 7,002
If perfecting your golf game is more important than the views, Poppy Hills has you covered as it is the official headquarters of MTT Performance. "Make The Turn" is a high-performance coaching initiative for dedicated golfers to unlock their potential, while dramatically elevating their enjoyment for the game. Coach Jeff Ritter integrates training in golf skills, mindset, fitness and nutrition into a creative and engaging game-changing experience sure to boost your game.
Whether or not you are in to golf everyone should sample the flavor creations by Chef Johnny De Vivo (formally of Casanova in Carmel) at the recently renovated restaurant at Poppy Hills. Porter's features a kick-back and contemporary dining room, expansive outdoor patio with views of the course and outdoor fire pits are just the beginning to a diner's delight!
The farm-to-table menu is taken to a new level by featuring everything made from scratch including bread, beignets and even Johnny's cured meats; his smoked bacon is just sinful!
Don't skip out on breakfast as Johnny dishes up his freshly Memphis-style smoked corned beef served with hash; talk about being as far from your average snack shack at the golf course!
Porter's is currently open for breakfast, lunch and occasional dinner programs.
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Sip and Savor at Chateau Julien in Carmel Valley
If you are looking for a true vine to wine experience then Chateau Julien is the place to check out while on your tasting journey through Monterey County. Here you can not only taste some exceptional blends but you can also take a tour through their working vineyards, view the wine Chai and literally stop and smell the roses.
Just a few miles from Carmel-by-the-Sea, along Carmel Valley Road, sits an off-white Chateau that looks like it came straight out of France's Loire Valley. This grown-up fantasyland is a dream come true from husband and wife duo Bob and Patty Brower. The old-world structure is a replica of a home located on the French-Swiss border that the Brower's drooled over while on a European vacation which now plays host as Chateau Julien's tasting room.
Wine tastings are available Monday-Friday from 8am to 5pm and Saturday- Sunday from 11am to 5pm for $15. Public tours are also offered daily and are complimentary with a purchased wine tasting. Did we mention that this is the only full capacity winery on the Monterey Peninsula open for tours?
Melinda, my guide for the day, had me start with a white blend appropriately named French Kiss. Fresh floral and melon had me sold at first sip and I could easily envision myself with a glass, or two, on a hot summer day.
After this little warm-up I was poured a glass of their Royalty Red, their most popular wine, before embarking on a walk through the vineyards and property.
We first headed to the wine estate's Chai (pronounced "shay") which houses over 1,000 American and French oak barrels. The building is built 30 feet underground to keep the wine cool as it "matures" and would also make for killer party venue. I could easily envision a classy wedding reception or my upcoming 27th birthday party amongst the decorative casks.
Just on the other side of the Chai are six acres of Sangiovese grapes. Rows and rows of vines are nestled on the valley's floor making for quite the backdrop to Melinda's overview of the grape growing process as we wound back up to the Chateau. Once back in the main tasting room I enjoyed a dose of their Reserve Merlot. The rich and bold tannins made for the perfect way to end a di-Vine day.
Even wine drinkers can appreciate this 45-minute guided tour. The immaculate gardens and aromatic roses make this a noteworthy stop for just about anyone. Check out their calendar of events for concerts in the garden, special wine dinners and more.
Just a few miles from Carmel-by-the-Sea, along Carmel Valley Road, sits an off-white Chateau that looks like it came straight out of France's Loire Valley. This grown-up fantasyland is a dream come true from husband and wife duo Bob and Patty Brower. The old-world structure is a replica of a home located on the French-Swiss border that the Brower's drooled over while on a European vacation which now plays host as Chateau Julien's tasting room.
Wine tastings are available Monday-Friday from 8am to 5pm and Saturday- Sunday from 11am to 5pm for $15. Public tours are also offered daily and are complimentary with a purchased wine tasting. Did we mention that this is the only full capacity winery on the Monterey Peninsula open for tours?
Melinda, my guide for the day, had me start with a white blend appropriately named French Kiss. Fresh floral and melon had me sold at first sip and I could easily envision myself with a glass, or two, on a hot summer day.
After this little warm-up I was poured a glass of their Royalty Red, their most popular wine, before embarking on a walk through the vineyards and property.
We first headed to the wine estate's Chai (pronounced "shay") which houses over 1,000 American and French oak barrels. The building is built 30 feet underground to keep the wine cool as it "matures" and would also make for killer party venue. I could easily envision a classy wedding reception or my upcoming 27th birthday party amongst the decorative casks.
Just on the other side of the Chai are six acres of Sangiovese grapes. Rows and rows of vines are nestled on the valley's floor making for quite the backdrop to Melinda's overview of the grape growing process as we wound back up to the Chateau. Once back in the main tasting room I enjoyed a dose of their Reserve Merlot. The rich and bold tannins made for the perfect way to end a di-Vine day.
Even wine drinkers can appreciate this 45-minute guided tour. The immaculate gardens and aromatic roses make this a noteworthy stop for just about anyone. Check out their calendar of events for concerts in the garden, special wine dinners and more.
Monday, April 14, 2014
Sneak Peek: New "Tentacles" Exhibit at the Monterey Bay Aquarium
It's finally here! Tentacles: The Astounding Lives of Octopuses, Squid and Cuttlefishes officially opens at the Monterey Bay Aquarium tomorrow, April 12th at 10am!
Today we were lucky enough to get a peek of the largest and most diverse exhibit created capturing these amazing creatures.
Over the life of the exhibit, you might see any of the 24 species that will rotate through various living exhibits, from a giant Pacific octopus to a Hawaiian bobtail squid, the Wunderpus and others - including one of the world's smallest squid and one of the world's largest cuttlefishes.
Click here to purchase online tickets.
For more photos visit our Flickr set.
Today we were lucky enough to get a peek of the largest and most diverse exhibit created capturing these amazing creatures.
Over the life of the exhibit, you might see any of the 24 species that will rotate through various living exhibits, from a giant Pacific octopus to a Hawaiian bobtail squid, the Wunderpus and others - including one of the world's smallest squid and one of the world's largest cuttlefishes.
Click here to purchase online tickets.
For more photos visit our Flickr set.
Monday, April 7, 2014
Favaloro's Big Night Bistro in Pacific Grove
Twenty years in the restaurant business is nothing to take lightly. Favaloro's Big Night Bistro has been an anchor is Pacific Grove's dining scene for the past two decades and with no lack of tragedy. In 2012 the Italian family run business experienced a detrimental fire that ripped through the entire building. Living just down the street from the restaurant, I was shocked to hear about the fire but couldn't be happier to hear that they were planning to bounce back; and bounce back they did! In August 2013 husband and wife Nino and Marie Favaloro reopened their doors with the same great dishes and down-home service that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more.
The cozy establishment is located on Lighthouse Avenue in one of Pacific Grove's charming Victorian storefronts. Favaloro's has a charm all its own that makes you feel like part of the family once you step inside. The dim lighting, traditional Mediterranean décor and displayed Italian wines create a romantic and enchanting vibe, perfect for a date night!
Recently a large group of hungry co-workers and I had the pleasure of dining at my local hot spot. After a warm greeting from owners Nino and Marie Favaloro, and glasses half full of Chianti, we were ready to begin our traditional Sicilian soirée.
Every good Italian meal should start with fantastic bread and Favaloro's takes this a step farther with its aromatic garlic cheese bread. The toasted Italian loaf oozed with mozzarella cheese and bites of garlicky goodness.
Being that we had ten in our group we obliviously opted to have not one, not two but four starters. Living in Monterey has made me quite the calamari snob and I can honestly say that the Calamari Fritti is among one of the best on the peninsula. The lightly breaded squid was exquisitely tender and obviously fresh out of the bay.
Steering away from the deep fried dish we cleared our arteries with two different salads, a beet salad and an arugula and pear salad. The arugula salad was my personal fav with bites of crunchy Asian pears, homemade candied walnuts and chunks of pungent gorgonzola cheese.
The heartiest appetizer of them all was the Melanzane Parmigiana, or grilled eggplant with cheese. Layers of meaty eggplant medallions were topped with spicy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Sprinkles of freshly picked basil leaves made me smile on the inside and added a much welcomed peppery kick.
What's an Italian meal without pasta? Favaloro's has quite the line-up on the menu including homemade cannelloni, fettuccine and linguine. Tonight we were treated to gnocchi gorgonzola and butternut squash raviolis. I've had the gnocchi as an appetizer before and was certainly not disappointed to see it as an entrée. The doughy potato pillows had the perfect consistency that allowed each bite to immediately melt in your mouth. The remaining gorgonzola cream sauce was quickly sopped up by a piece of garlic bread I had hoarder earlier.
Just when I thought I had reached my eating capacity, Nino surprised us with steamed clams and a seafood medley in a spicy tomato based broth. I savored every bit of the clams as the buttery Bordelaise sauce seems to drip down by face.
After each course our amazing waiter Nick was quick to clear our dishes and silverware. I must say that the family atmosphere and service is the icing on the cake and truly rounds out the "big night out" experience.
Last, but certainly not least, cannolis! Baby cannolis came powdered in sugar with a cherry on top! The creamy ricotta filling had a hint of coffee with a crust that had just the right amount of crunch. A perfect pastry to top off a traditional Sicilian dinner!
Need a quick bite or just a quick fix for a sweet tooth? Just next door is the Favaloro family's "fast food" eatery named after Nino and Marie's daughter. Café Ariana has all sorts of paninis, pizzas and gelatos open daily (except Sunday) at 11am for lunch and dinner (or just dessert).
The cozy establishment is located on Lighthouse Avenue in one of Pacific Grove's charming Victorian storefronts. Favaloro's has a charm all its own that makes you feel like part of the family once you step inside. The dim lighting, traditional Mediterranean décor and displayed Italian wines create a romantic and enchanting vibe, perfect for a date night!
Recently a large group of hungry co-workers and I had the pleasure of dining at my local hot spot. After a warm greeting from owners Nino and Marie Favaloro, and glasses half full of Chianti, we were ready to begin our traditional Sicilian soirée.
Every good Italian meal should start with fantastic bread and Favaloro's takes this a step farther with its aromatic garlic cheese bread. The toasted Italian loaf oozed with mozzarella cheese and bites of garlicky goodness.
Being that we had ten in our group we obliviously opted to have not one, not two but four starters. Living in Monterey has made me quite the calamari snob and I can honestly say that the Calamari Fritti is among one of the best on the peninsula. The lightly breaded squid was exquisitely tender and obviously fresh out of the bay.
Steering away from the deep fried dish we cleared our arteries with two different salads, a beet salad and an arugula and pear salad. The arugula salad was my personal fav with bites of crunchy Asian pears, homemade candied walnuts and chunks of pungent gorgonzola cheese.
The heartiest appetizer of them all was the Melanzane Parmigiana, or grilled eggplant with cheese. Layers of meaty eggplant medallions were topped with spicy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Sprinkles of freshly picked basil leaves made me smile on the inside and added a much welcomed peppery kick.
What's an Italian meal without pasta? Favaloro's has quite the line-up on the menu including homemade cannelloni, fettuccine and linguine. Tonight we were treated to gnocchi gorgonzola and butternut squash raviolis. I've had the gnocchi as an appetizer before and was certainly not disappointed to see it as an entrée. The doughy potato pillows had the perfect consistency that allowed each bite to immediately melt in your mouth. The remaining gorgonzola cream sauce was quickly sopped up by a piece of garlic bread I had hoarder earlier.
Just when I thought I had reached my eating capacity, Nino surprised us with steamed clams and a seafood medley in a spicy tomato based broth. I savored every bit of the clams as the buttery Bordelaise sauce seems to drip down by face.
After each course our amazing waiter Nick was quick to clear our dishes and silverware. I must say that the family atmosphere and service is the icing on the cake and truly rounds out the "big night out" experience.
Last, but certainly not least, cannolis! Baby cannolis came powdered in sugar with a cherry on top! The creamy ricotta filling had a hint of coffee with a crust that had just the right amount of crunch. A perfect pastry to top off a traditional Sicilian dinner!
Need a quick bite or just a quick fix for a sweet tooth? Just next door is the Favaloro family's "fast food" eatery named after Nino and Marie's daughter. Café Ariana has all sorts of paninis, pizzas and gelatos open daily (except Sunday) at 11am for lunch and dinner (or just dessert).
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