Interestingly, even though it’s winter and hibernatory (another one from the dictionary of Ray) fantasies lull us into the chrysalis comfort of our beds (kind of like my writing) there is quite a bit of activity happening in and around our little Shangri-La. I have much info to share about stimulating F&B/social issues like mad cow disease, etc. but will retain those topics for future columns. Instead, I will write about stimulating events and goings-on here on the home front.

Chronologically counting, we begin with a fascinating “Evening of Beautiful Music” at Summerhouse Restaurant in Carmel Valley Village. This Friday, the 23rd, beginning at 6:30pm, Chef/Owner Chris “What’s a Vacation?” Sprecher will present a three-course dinner along with opera singers from the Opera Institute of California. Chef Sprecher is not actually serving opera singers—they’ll be there to entertain, singing selections from various operas, Broadway and musical theater.

I don’t know about you, but when I eat out I’m usually on the verge of getting up and belting out a few operatic tunes myself, so the thought of having folks who are actually trained to do so is very exciting to me. Add to that the comfortable ambiance of the new Summerhouse and Chef Sprecher’s down-home cuisine on a chilly winter evening—I say, right on. Call fast to see if there are any places left: 659-5020.

THE CHEESE STANDS ALONE… While you’re at it, might as well book a room out there at Bernardus Lodge and hang around for the next day’s event in the Harvest Room. From 1 to 3pm Saturday, the Big Cheese himself, Kent Torrey of the Carmel Cheese Shop, will collaborate with the folks from Sciabica Olive Oil in a talk/tasting about various regions and seasons for special cheeses and olive oils. The Sciabicas have been pressing olive oil since 1936 and are purveyors of some of the highest quality oils in California. Kent Torrey is the local authority on cheeses of all types from everywhere, and is always informative, interesting and downright cheesy (in a good way).

If that’s not enough, Culinary Capo di Tutti Capi, Cal Stamenov, will be doing a demonstration using the various ingredients discussed. All in all it sounds like a great early afternoon. The price is $40 and it takes place in the Harvest Room at Bernardus Lodge. Call 658-3550 and book it.

BACK AT THE HYATT…If you are looking for a place to enjoy a televised game, or even just to hang out for some fun times, a few beers and a bite to eat, the spot to go is Knuckles Sports Bar at the Hyatt Regency Monterey. Under the leadership of GM Michael J. Koffler, the Hyatt has brought in a team of gunslingers. Mac “Is That My Beeper?” Gregory is revamping the food and beverage program in a big way, bringing in new products, upgrading the look and feel, and basically injecting a much-needed shot of adrenalin into the Hyatt’s food service.

Chef Gregory “What Beeper?” Grohowski is improving the food, adding new, exciting items and tapping the kitchen’s talented staff for ideas. Just the addition of creatively designed dishware instead of the hideous baskets, along with items like sliders, those great little mini-burgers, and the best hot dog this side of Cincinnati makes eating at Knuckles a fun affair. All the buns, biscuits, bread and baked goods are homemade by Gerard Rosenstein and add a wonderful touch to everything (think about how many burgers or dogs are ruined by sickly buns).

There are different promotions every day, 30 (yes thirty) wines by the glass, all types of great new beers, a pumped up staff—and while you’re there, say hi to Beverage Manager Tatsuo “Tuck” Kishimoto, who prowls Knuckles like a pro bowl defensive end prowls an opponent’s backfield. They’re throwing a mammoth Super Bowl party, spilling over into the big-screened ballroom. There’ll be various female representatives from major brewing corporations, games, goodies and a lot of good will. One promotion is the B.A.R., or “Be A Regular” promotion for locals: Sign up and get 15 percent off anything you eat or drink, anytime. Are you kidding me? That’s like stealing.

Hyatt has also renewed its quest to bring convention and catering business to the property with the addition of Karen “Is That My Cell Phone?” Lauppe. She’s a gung ho kinda gal trolling for party business and reeling in groups. Call her and ask about the President’s House at the far end of the property. It’s a great venue for small to medium parties of all types.

Basically, it’s time to rediscover Monterey’s Hyatt Regency for many reasons. Stop by for a drink and some jazz (call for dates) or a bite and a brew in Knuckles, or a lunch or dinner at the restaurant, with its Central Coast-influenced wine and cuisine. See you at the Super Bowl party.