Bars & Nightlife - Monterey Bay Visitors Guide 2011

You can sip blackberry pomegranate martinis by the fire and listen to some of the best jazz artists pick up an instrument at the Hyatt’s Fireplace Lounge. You can thirstily slurp locally crafted English Ales’ Amber Fat Lip before plunging back into the thumping Sly McFly’s dance floor fueled by, say, Sambada’s 10 drums. You can swish world-class Chardonnay and soak up stand-up at Bankers VIP Lounge, maybe pause for some poker. The night is young. And the night is yours.

ALFREDO’S | Famed as a last-stop nightcap spot, this downtown watering hole, in one of the oldest surviving buildings in Monterey, dishes out fancy-free drinks with old-school service to a faithful blue-collar crowd while classic rock blares from a jukebox. A cozy dive. 266 Pearl St., Monterey. 375-0655.

BAJA CANTINA | Patrons can fuel up on Weekly readers’ Best Margarita, fill up on Cal-Mex food, listen to live music three days a week, lounge on the 120-capacity deck or chill inside with $1 million of automobile memorabilia. 7166 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley. 625-2252.

BANKERS VIP LOUNGE | In addition to 24-hour gaming, including four poker games the restaurant-by-day/swank-lounge-at-night space (5,500 square feet of black leather couches, full stage, live shows, late-night kitchen and cool, water-effect lighting) has got people talking. How about a Sunday brunch while being serenaded by a mariachi band? 111 Monterey St., Salinas. 422-6666.

BLUE FIN | The newest kid on the Cannery Row block fills its expansive seaside space with fresh billiards tables, live music on the weekends, and a laid-back lounge area to drink it all in. 685 Cannery Row, Monterey. 717-4280.

BRITANNIA ARMS | This downtown spot (just follow the laughter and karaoke singing) serves up a traditional Brit pub/Yank bar menu, domestic and imported beers, liquor, four flat screens and a giant projector for all manner of sports. Award-winning karaoke night is a hoot – pub trivia to boot – and live acts liven the weekend. 444 Alvarado St., Monterey. 656-9543.

BROPHY’S TAVERN | There’s a lot more to recommend this place than just the authentic Philly cheesesteak: An expansive “upscale tavern” menu, cool service crew, a lively atmosphere and four flat-screen TVs for your sports fix. Fourth and San Carlos, Carmel. 624-2476.

BULLDOG BRITISH PUB | Folks flock to this English pub in New Monterey for the energetic crowds, 16 beers on tap, big-screen TVs, and late-night pub grub, including burgers, salads, fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd’s pie. 611 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey. 658-0686.

CAPTAIN BULLWACKER’S | This bar and grill on Cannery Row has a big outdoor patio with two fire pits and heat lamps. On weekends, bands and acoustic musicians generate heat too. 653 Cannery Row, Monterey. 373-1353.

CARBONE’S | This neighborhood institution boasts live entertainment and a terraced outdoor patio with an inviting fire pit. Diversions from the full bar include a small-but-spirited dance floor, indoor/outdoor darts, pool, two fireplaces, foosball, video games, Wii and Wi-Fi. 214 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey. 643-9169.

CANNERY ROW BREWING COMPANY | The usual scenario at CRBC involves this big historic brick building spilling over with customers within 20 minutes of opening, with nights flowing well past midnight. Flat screens bring the game live above the bar and in the dining room. Woofers boom, shifting from classic rock to more house-like club action. Beer as art design schemes, retro signs, and chalkboard walls furbish the space. With countless beers on tap, over 30 California native wines, smoked baby back ribs, slow-braised pork belly, and breakfast burgers topped with a fried egg and bacon, CRBC doesn’t know how to disappoint the thirsty or the hungry. 95 Prescott Ave., Monterey, 643-2722.

CHAPALA | The margaritas are deliciosas and the Cancun – two flour tortillas rolled and stuffed with shrimp and mushrooms, covered with green tomatillo sauce and a dollop of sour cream – is incredible, but come nightfall it’s the sweet set-up for up to 100 people to comfortably get their groove on and the no-cover-for-ladies action that sets Chapala on fire. 438 Salinas St., Salinas, 757-4959, www.chapalarestaurant.com.

CHARACTERS SPORTS BAR AND GRILL | This popular downtown sports bar in the Marriott Hotel boasts four plasma TVs, six 19-inch TVs, a big screen, six foreign and domestic beers on tap, Wi-Fi, and an extensive menu including the huge Knock-Off Nachos. 350 Calle Principal, Monterey. 647-4023.

CIBO RISTORANTE ITALIANO | Cibo’s is a fave for the upscale downtown crowd. After dinner, it evolves into a lively nightclub filled with chic peeps dancing to live jazz, funk and soul. 301 Alvarado St., Monterey. 649-8151. www.cibo.com.

CROWN AND ANCHOR BRITISH PUB | This lushly appointed, nautical-themed pub pours a rotating roster of 20 British and Scottish ales on draught and single malt Scotches, alongside hearty British fare like cottage pie and fish-n-chips. A conversation-buzzed outside patio adds energy. 150 West Franklin St., Monterey. 649-6496, www.crownandanchor.net.

EAST VILLAGE COFFEE LOUNGE | Though it’s famed for its coffees and loose-leaf teas, this hipster hangout pours a delicious line-up of international and organic beers. The warm, progressive design and outdoor courtyard invite lingering, but live music, poetry, and beer tastings punctuate the calm with energy. 498 Washington St., Monterey. 373-5601, www.eastvillagecoffeelounge.com.

EASY STREET BILLIARDS | This local billiards institution has hosted amateur drop-in, handicapped, 9-ball tournaments every Thursday night since opening Jan. 1, 1999. Hungry pool sharks can snack on taquitos and cheesesticks, washed down with Dragonslayer or 1066 beer from Marina’s English Ales Brewery, to the tune of a 1950s reproduction jukebox. 511 Tyler St., Monterey. 333-0825, www.easystreetbilliards.com.

EDGAR’S RESTAURANT | Nestled in the heart of Carmel Valley at Quail Lodge, Edgar’s walk-up patio bar overlooks the famed golf course in a relaxed, “19th-hole” atmosphere warmed by two fire pits. A quality casual menu augments a fine selection of top shelf spirits from the bar. 8000 Valley Greens, Carmel Valley. 620-8910, www.quaillodge.com.

ENGLISH ALES BREWERY | In a comfortable neighborhood setting sits this micro brewery (voted Best Brewery since 2004 by Weekly readers) that gives this region its preeminent local beer. Barkeeps pour a solid lineup of small batch, cask-conditioned, hand-pulled ales, including the widely acclaimed E.A. Pale Ale. 233-A Reindollar Ave., Marina. 883-3000.

FERNWOOD TAVERN | In the heart of Big Sur sits the eclectic bar of the Fernwood Resort, which draws a crowd of mountain people, enviros, campers, travelers and artists. Occasional live music acts add verve to the friendly party atmosphere, the woodsy outdoor patio is built around redwoods, and the rustic bar is lined with historic photographs. 47200 Highway 1, 27 miles south of Carmel, Big Sur. 667-2422, www.fernwoodbigsur.com.

FIREPLACE LOUNGE AT THE HYATT | The Hyatt features regional jazz artists weekend evenings in the lounge, where patrons can enjoy wine or a cocktail indoors or al fresco. Visitors can sit under a skyview atrium, gaze out a wall of windows over Del Monte golf course, and warm themselves by a large fireplace in the center of the room. 1 Old Golf Course Way, Monterey. 647-2098, 372-1234.

FLANAGAN'S | This Irish-American style pub is known not just for their cold, refreshing imports on tap but also for their fresh-cut “chips,” family crab-cake recipe, shepherd’s pie and other pub fare and offers a pool table and a heated patio welcoming both two – and four-legged guests. 3772 The Barnyard, Carmel. 625-5500 flanaganscarmel.com

FOG TOWN BAR & GRILL | This locals and regulars watering hole also draws the hospitality, college and gambling crowd (next door is a card room) for late nights punctuated by open mics and dance music, and dimly lit escapades of darts and pool. 204 Carmel Ave., Marina. 384-7632.

FRANCO’S • NORMA JEAN’S | The county’s sole gay bar showcases lively and inclusive Spanish drag shows on Saturdays that add a spicy dollop of progressive, urban sophistication to the otherwise sleepy ag town, primarily known for artichokes. The venue is also a supporter of AIDS organizations. 10639 Merritt St., Castroville. 633-2090.

FUSE LOUNGE AT CARMEL MISSION INN | The newly renovated lounge spot, with its stock of fine scotches and tasty martinis, (very) happy hour, live music acts on the weekends, and nouveau retro décor, lures a hip, young clientele, as well as curious hotel guests. 3665 Rio Road, Carmel. 624-1841.

HIPPODROME | This spacious upstairs nightclub offers high-powered, high-tech, DJ-spun house, ‘80s, techno and hip-hop for your dancing pleasure. But it also pulls in heavy-duty live music acts such as DJ Quick, Too $hort and E-40, and events like mixed martial arts fights and ladies nights. They host many event after-parties (just show your ticket) and the club’s 321 Lounge allows for conversation. 321 D Alvarado St., Monterey. 646-9244, www.hippclub.com.

JACK LONDON’S BAR AND GRILL | A friendly atmosphere and a handful of courtyard tables make for a fine atmosphere for a N’Awlins-accented menu. A good place for people watching or, with its seven TVs, sports watching. Su Vecino Court, Dolores between Fifth and Sixth, Carmel. 624-2336, www.jacklondons.com.

JOSE’S UNDERGROUND LOUNGE | After gorging on a Mexican meal upstairs, head downstairs to one of the coolest basement parties on Cannery Row. A steady stream of underground bands lay down the soundtrack on the weekends, and the small bar tucked in the corner gets support from an occasional satellite bar outside, covered by a lighted awning. 638 Wave St., Monterey. 655-4419, www.myspace.com/theloungeunderground.

KNUCKLES HISTORICAL SPORTS BAR AT THE HYATT | About a dozen flat screen TVs plastered with sports makes this lively place a fan favorite. Respectable bar menu, free popcorn and peanuts, and a 25-ounce mug o’ beer absolutely squash hunger and thirst. For diversion, there’s a pool table and video games. Hyatt Regency, 1 Old Golf Course Road, Monterey. 372-1234.

KULA RANCH | Located in the Marina Sanctuary Resort near the beach, this steakhouse houses a 50-foot bar, occasional live music, festive Hawaiian décor, TVs for sports, wrap-around booths and splashy specialty drinks. The outside patio, with three fire pits, affords a sunset view to the strains of crashing waves. 3295 Dunes Road, Marina. 883-9479, www.kula-ranch.com.

LALLAPALOOZA | This flagship restaurant/bar sits in the heart of downtown Monterey as an upscale and active nightlife venue. It’s famed for its creative martini menu and fashionable design, and a couple of flat screen TVs over the full bar keep sports and news fans up to date. Satellite locations include Lalla Lounge in Salinas and Lalla Grill at Del Monte Shopping Center. 474 Alvarado St., Monterey. 645-9036.

LONDON BRIDGE PUB | London Bridge Pub boasts 14 beers on tap, an extensive menu including fish and chips and burgers, and views of Monterey Harbor. Outside, sit at the heated patio and take in the sea air. 256 Figueroa St., Municipal Wharf #2, Monterey. 372-0581.

LOPEZ RESTAURANTE Y CANTINA | At this family-run culinary venture where the homemade food far outstrips the lackluster ambiance, Mama Chela, the heart of the restaurant, is the one behind the homemade tortillas, the Mechamel mole and the six men who run the place with a gregarious attentiveness, all brothers. They know how to have a good time, amassing an impressive selection of tequilas and a lively group of local bar loyalists. 635 Cass St., Monterey, 324-4260, www.lopezrestaurante.com.

MAIDEN PUBLICK HOUSE | Overflowing with personality, this Big Sur pub and sports bar (likely to show fútbol as well as football) sits near the Big Sur River and features 95 craft and European beers and a full bar menu. Village Center Shops, Highway 1, Big Sur. 667-2355.

MISSION RANCH | Clint Eastwood’s historic Mission Ranch is a popular draw, owing to its four fireplaces, classy drink selection, green post-beam ceilings, jazzy tinkling of the piano bar, and outdoor patio with sweeping views of the Santa Lucia Range. 26270 Dolores St., Carmel. 625-9040, www.missionranchcarmel.com.

MOSS LANDING INN | Eclectic. That best describes this nautical-themed Moss Landing bar that keeps loyal locals and curious travelers flowing in for hearty food, live music on the weekends, karaoke on Tuesdays, draught beers and the occasional amateur pole dance. 7902 Highway 1, Moss Landing. 633-9853, www.wenchilada.com.

OLDTOWN BAR & GRILL | This warm, comfortable Spanish-style restaurant/bar serves as a Salinas power lunch spot in the daytime, stocked with burgers and Cobb salads, and a power bar at night, equipped with dance floor, heated patio and DJs spinning hip-hop, Top 40 and salsa. 66 West Alisal St., Salinas. 758-6600, www.oldtownbarandgril.com.

THE OTTER'S DEN | This colorful, swanky yet comfortable sports lounge offers a full bar, pool table, dart board and big, bright flat screens. 3166 Vista Del Camino in the Marina Village Shopping Center, 883-1227.

PENNY FARTHING TAVERN | The recent return of Salinas’ most revered pub, Penny Farthing Tavern, abides by a blueprint of good beer and quality food orchestrated by chef Orlando Corona. The Penny does the burger with panache – and another ubiquitous tavern favorite done well here is the fish and chips – but there are also surprises like lamb tikka and “tortizzas.” Yes, the beer is good, and it flows like the Salinas River after a heavy rain, with more than 15 brews on tap. 321 Main St., Salinas. 422-5652.

PETER B’S BREWPUB | Beer is king here. The in-house brewery features 12 exclusive Peter B’s Brewpub beers, including a pilsner, seven-malt stout and hefeweizen. Watch the brewmaster at work from the comfort of red leather booths. Enjoy sourdough pizza, buffalo wings or a veggie burger while drinking in the county’s best happy hour, according to Weekly readers. Portola Hotel and Spa, 2 Portola Plaza, Monterey. 649-2699, www.portolahotel.com.

PLANET GEMINI | This is the place for comedy, pulling major comics in on weekends like Paul Ogata and Steve White to attack the funny bone. But the nightclub/Italian restaurant stays busy all week with live music from the likes of Zapp, hip-hop acts, DJs, an Italian band, salsa nights and mini festivals like the Erotic Art show and the Polynesian Music Festival. 2110 North Fremont St., Monterey. 373-1449, www.planetgemini.com.

SARDINE FACTORY | Remodeled and revamped a few years ago, this elegant room, with its couches, cozy corners and piano bar, dishes terrific small plates from the legendary restaurant, surpassed by one of the strongest wine cellars in the country. 701 Wave St., Monterey. 373-3775.

SLY MCFLY’S | Sly’s is a crucial player on the Central Coast music scene. Local blues and soul musicians jam here during the week, and national talent comes through on weekends, stirring up one of the most dancing-est, laughing-est places on Cannery Row. The full bar, breezy ocean air and great views only reinforce the good vibes. 700 Cannery Row, Monterey. 649-8050.

SUNSET LOUNGE AT HIGHLANDS INN | The stunning views of Point Lobos from this hilltop lounge is rivaled by its 62-page, Wine Spectator-award winning wine menu. Bask in the view with live jazz on the weekends, a cigar from the fine selection, and a couple of chairs on the fireplace patio. 120 Highlands Drive, 4 miles south of Rio Road, Highway 1, Carmel Highlands. 622-5445, www.pacificsedge.com.

THE TAP ROOM AT THE LODGE AT PEBBLE BEACH | The Tap Room is a casual and classy spot that can swing romance from private booths in back, fun with a generous beer selection and five hi-def flat-screens with all the sports packages, reflective with views of the putting greens and ocean, or upscale with its 10,000-bottle wine cellar. The Lodge at Pebble Beach, 1700 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, 625-8535, www.pebblebeach.com.

WICKETS BISTRO AT BERNARDUS LODGE | Wickets Bistro lounge hosts weekend live jazz, mixes great martinis and commands views of the beautiful Santa Lucia Mountains from the terrace. With its bocce ball and croquet, stellar vineyards, stone fireplace, extensive and international wine list, and classic bistro fare, it can feel like a vacation in Tuscany. 415 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley. 658-3550, www.bernardus.com.