A weekend trip to Monterey? Count me in! Monterey Jazz Festival, ocean views, great food and street shopping were all in order for a relaxing weekend. Carmel-by-the-sea (another California coastal gem) is just a stone’s throw away from Monterey, so we just had to spend some time there too.
Only a few short hours from the Bay Area, you will find yourself in Monterey, right alongside Carmel. Arriving late afternoon, we were definitely hungry and ready to stretch the legs. We ended up at Fandango, a European-fare restaurant that has graced the Pacific Grove neighborhood for over 25 years. Pacific Grove is a tiny town just outside of Monterey, that I never knew about! I must have been living under a rock because it is simply adorable (and I like all things adorable, who doesn’t?). The neighborhood is peppered with an assortment of restaurants, shops, and cottage-like houses; a perfect place to stop for lunch and walk around.
Fandango’s interior is charming and a table by the fireplace wasn’t too shabby either. Although only September, the weather was crisp and a fireside seat sounded too appealing. The menu was extensive, the food was delicious and the service was outstanding. It’s not often that I have service that excellent and I was impressed. Ambiance, good food, and great service? I’ll be back for sure, Fandango!
It wasn’t long before we had to head over to the 61st Monterey Jazz Festival. I recommend buying arena tickets for the bigger acts. We went Friday night and had the pleasure of seeing:
Spaces by Wynton Marsalis Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis Featuring dancers Lil Buck, Jared Grimes & Ron Myles
The Wynton Marsalis show was nothing short of fantastic with big band style and dancers that will blow both socks off. Wynton Marsalis left me entirely impressed and eager to see each following set.
2018 MJF Jazz Legend Award Honoree & Showcase Artist
Dianne Reeves
Ms. Reeves was vibrant and carried a beautiful, strong and clear tune reminiscent of the late great Ella Fitzgerald. Lots of “bee-bop-a-dooby” sets and impressive improv jazz.
Finally, an artsy and explorative style of jazz that kept me moving to the beat in my seat; it was hard to sit still! I really enjoyed this tribute with plenty of talent on stage.
2018 MJF Artists-in-Residence
Tia Fuller & Ingrid Jensen Present
A Tribute to Geri Allen
The Fierce Nurturer: Life of a Song Through Spirit
With Terri Lyne Carrington, Kris Davis, Shamie Royston,
Maurice Chestnut, DJ Val, and Robert Hurst
Of course when in Monterey, we had to hit up Cannery Row. Now a collection of knick-knack shops and restaurants with incredible views of the ocean used to house actual fishing canneries. Art galleries, a walk along the ocean (I spotted a bevy of sea otters!) and the Monterey Bay Aquarium all make Cannery Row essential to your Monterey visit. Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf is also nearby, which is another spot to see.
Being just an exit away from Carmel, we had to swing by. Carmel is just too tempting to not visit, it’s a little jewel that I have written about before here. With a coffee in hand, I was ready to hit up all the quaint stores and take my time looking at fine soaps, perfumes, linens and jewelry. It’s fun to take your time in Carmel and enjoy the scene. Not long after shopping, it was time for lunch. I must say, I did not want to be religiously lectin-free when I walked through the door of Patisserie Boissiere. The pastries, pies, and cakes are a step (or two) above desserts you normally see in glass cases. Sigh. I passed by and was again delighted with a wonderful seat in the corner of yet another quaint and charming restaurant. The food, ambiance, and service were all again great.
Later in the day, we decided to visit Mission Ranch, Clint Eastwood’s hotel, restaurant, and bar. I think it’s a “must” to visit every time I go to Carmel. With a piano bar, great food and a picturesque setting of pastures with sheep grazing, it doesn’t get much more relaxing. This one is a no-brainer, especially if you are a Clint “Squint” fan. You may just see him pony up to the bar!
A quick trip, but a great time in Monterey, Pacific Grove, and Carmel. So much to do in such a short distance from each other and it’s hard to decide where to eat (which is a wonderful problem to have). The central coast is a gorgeous place to visit any time of year with its spectacular views, cozy fireplaces in almost every restaurant and charming stores to peek your head into.
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