The hum of the single-engine Cessna fills your ears as you ascend above the cool waters of the Pacific Coast and as you look below, all you can see are the rolling hills of Carmel Valley. Before you know it you are flying over iconic Highway 1 and the breathtaking region of Big Sur and you are wondering to yourself "why haven't I done this before." This is the moment that I realized that an aerial tour is the only way to fully appreciate the geologic beauty of the Monterey region.
Luckily for us Monterey Regional Airport's newest neighbor is creating a buzz, and it's not just coming from the propeller! AeroDynamic Aviation has taken up local residence with aerial tours of the Monterey Peninsula and a full on flight school.
Not quite up for the pilot's seat just yet my co-worker and I decided to book a Bay Tour with one of AeroDynamic Aviation's instructor pilots. The location was a piece of cake to find, just across from the Monterey Regional Airport. Our friendly instructor pilot Armin rang us in and gave us a tour of their office and flight school.
Monterey is AeroDynamic's third and newest addition to their flight school fleet with locations also in San Jose and Salinas. The school was impressive with an on-site classroom and state-of-the-art flight simulator!
Just outside of the building sat three aircrafts including a two-seat aerobatic plane that was just dying to be taken out for some flips and tricks. After a quick peek inside I was thrilled to board the more spacious 4-seater Cessna 172; we didn't have to even flip a coin for window seat!
Armin was great to go over all of the safety checks and point out some of the aircrafts features and controls. It was almost like mini flight lesson!
Once inside my co-worker and I secured our headsets and buckled in for take off. This was my first time on a plane this size and I was a bit anxious to get up in the air; luckily Armin's vast knowledge about the plane's gadgets and controls put me at ease.
It was incredible to see Monterey Bay and the valley in one shot, talk about a panoramic view! I couldn't believe how peaceful it was once we were in the air, at one point I couldn't even hear the propellers.
Once we reached around 3,000 feet we cruised over to Point Lobos and the Carmel Highlands and then circled back towards the Peninsula. It was exhilarating to be above the clouds and point out certain landmarks like Pebble Beach Golf Links, Embassy Suites and the Del Monte Center from above.
Flying above Old Fisherman's Wharf and the harbor was definitely the best part of my flight. You could easily make out bustling fishing boats and laid-back sailboats down below. I even attempted to whale watch from the skies without having the risk of being sea sick. After an exhilarating 45 minute scenic spin a smooth landing quickly grounded us back to reality.
If flying a plane is on your bucket list then check out AeroDynamic Aviation's introductory flight school. You will be able to take the controls (and two brave friends) along for a ride in a 4-seater plane with a FAA certified instructor. The experience (and the view) is sure to make a lasting impression! Ongoing and aerobatic trainings are also available.
Monday, September 15, 2014
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
jeninni kitchen + wine bar in Pacific Grove
Impeccable food, wine and service are the name of the game at the (almost) year old Pacific Grove gem jeninni kitchen + wine bar.
Seasonal menu items such as Spanish tapas, Mediterranean mains and charcuterie plates at jeninni kitchen + wine bar bring a surprising urban energy to downtown Pacific Grove. Peek into the open kitchen where stovetop flames radiate from the chef' latest edible installment before grabbing a seat upstairs at the sleek tile and wood bar, or a table for two in the modern dining room on the main floor.
Owner and sommelier by trade, Thamin Saleh and Chef Jeffrey Weiss are the dream team when it comes to serving up sensational wines with culinary delights. Thamin's extensive wine background is apparent in the ever changing wine list featuring over 90 selections! Chef Jeffrey's training in Spain and time spent with James Beard award-winning chef Jose Andres have fully developed his skills as a Mediterranean food god.
The duo's intimate 34-seat dining room and 14-seat wine bar have been the talk of the town since first opening bringing new flavors and combinations not yet seen on the Monterey Peninsula, all of which I experienced on my recent visit with some friends.
Jeninni's beverage service is not standard by any means. The extensive wine list, imaginative wine cocktails, craft beers and sodas are refreshingly unique; even the water is purified in-house! It's safe to say you won't be ordering a Pepsi at this place, and why would you want to with such delectable options?
I started off with their signature sin-gria which smelled like a nostalgic cherry Lifesaver! The sinful potion tasted like a refreshing and fruity summer version of Christmas mulled wine.
A must try is the craft gin and tonic cocktail served with cucumber; this drink could easily get me into trouble, luckily this gin has a lower alcohol level than the norm!
Now that we were hydrated it was time to eat! May I just say that the seasonal menu alone is a work of art? The simple (yet at times hard to pronounce) choices make this all the more intriguing. Thankfully there is a glossary at the bottom to fully explain unfamiliar terms and ingredients to ease any intimidations.
We started with a Greek inspired heirloom tomato salad with huge chunks of Feta cheese, olives and basil. The entirety was perfectly seasoned with a savory olive oil dressing.
Soon it was time to move over to some serious proteins. House-made chorizo sausages came out piping hot with a side of smoke apple puree and garlic aioli. The garlic aioli was phenomenal and gave the chorizo a much needed kick.
The show stopper amongst are group were the finger-lickin' good chicken wings, not be confused with those found at your local drive-thru. These wings were moist yet crunchy and zesty yet sweet all in one; I may even dare to say that they were the best that I have ever had!
Knowing Jeffrey's background and his recently published 400 page book on the art of Charcuterie and Spanish flavors, I was especially anxious to get my hands on his authentic Catalan Paella dish. The presentation alone earned five stars in my book. Savory rice, corn and chicken were topped with fresh arugula and full-bodied prawns.
The key to paella is to scoop up a hefty serving, top it off with a dollop of honey garlic aioli and finish it off with a fresh squeeze of lemon. The best part of all was the caramelized pieces left at the bottom of the pan, delish!
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Most Bang for your Buck Breakfast in Monterey: Monterey Pines Grill & Bar
Tucked behind the Monterey County Fair & Events Center is an unassuming gem of a breakfast joint. The Grill & Bar at the Monterey Pines Golf Course serves up simple yet comforting dishes at unbeatable prices. Where else can you get a full egg breakfast for $5.50, plumped up pancakes for $4.25 or a hearty bowl of oatmeal for $2.50?
I was pleasantly surprised when I pulled up to the pristine golf greens to find the tucked away Grill & Bar with expansive outdoor seating areas and an inviting and unfussy interior.
The breakfast menu was limited but had all of the typical go-to items like a Chef's breakfast sandwich, breakfast burrito and omelets.
After ordering at the front register I took at seat overlooking the course and fountain in the distance. Shortly after breakfast came out piping hot and cooked to order; we literally saw the chef flipping up our pancakes on the grill.
Thank goodness I ordered the short stack. The two massive pancakes were more than enough even though the fluffy, sweet and airy dough had me wanting more.
The oatmeal was quite the steal for $2.50 which was sprinkled with fresh blueberries and sweet honey.
The showstopper of the morning was the breakfast burrito. The warm tortilla was packed full of scrambled eggs, savory sausage and lots of gooey cheese, a perfect base meal to start any day.
Not only are the restaurant prices a bargain but the green fees are also a bargain starting at just $18.
The Grill & Bar is open daily for breakfast and lunch.
I was pleasantly surprised when I pulled up to the pristine golf greens to find the tucked away Grill & Bar with expansive outdoor seating areas and an inviting and unfussy interior.
The breakfast menu was limited but had all of the typical go-to items like a Chef's breakfast sandwich, breakfast burrito and omelets.
After ordering at the front register I took at seat overlooking the course and fountain in the distance. Shortly after breakfast came out piping hot and cooked to order; we literally saw the chef flipping up our pancakes on the grill.
Thank goodness I ordered the short stack. The two massive pancakes were more than enough even though the fluffy, sweet and airy dough had me wanting more.
The oatmeal was quite the steal for $2.50 which was sprinkled with fresh blueberries and sweet honey.
The showstopper of the morning was the breakfast burrito. The warm tortilla was packed full of scrambled eggs, savory sausage and lots of gooey cheese, a perfect base meal to start any day.
Not only are the restaurant prices a bargain but the green fees are also a bargain starting at just $18.
The Grill & Bar is open daily for breakfast and lunch.
Friday, July 11, 2014
Rappa's Seafood Restaurant on Old Fisherman's Wharf
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.
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, 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.
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