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My first sip–the cherry juice hits first, followed by Jameson. The masterfully crafted Manhattan tastes elevated in this place that feels like a homey living room. My dining partners are enjoying homemade sangria. It's date night in downtown Monterey and Esteban's Restaurant is the first stop. As we wait for Brussels sprouts, octopus, and clams tapas to start our "Taste of Monterey," I open the door to the patio, where thoughtfully placed heaters line the new pergola, making the ultimate outdoor space.
It's tough to get out, I get it! Planning, caregivers, costs, coordinating rides – it's exhausting atop a typical work week. But as parents of two littles, we make time; we relish new food experiences and pretend to be critics of Gordon Ramsay.
Esteban's is the perfect first stop, with its 4:30-6 pm Happy Hour, seven days/week. It's also convenient to walk from Esteban's to other downtown Monterey restaurants and bars.
Cella's Restaurant and Bar is high-energy, making it the perfect second stop. The bartender at Cella's is an artist, and the food is affordably upscale, with sharing encouraged. We sit in the bar area and order a few plates to share with our classic cocktails. Open from 5:30-9:00 most nights (Tuesday through Saturday), dropping by at opening is your best chance to beat the crowds.
After a 5-minute walk, we enter The Whisky Club. The beautifully appointed new hot spot is perfect for the night's last drink. I order a Japanese Highball-the bartender uses a professional Highball machine to make an excellent drink. Open from 2 pm to 10 pm Thursday through Saturday, The Whiskey Club is still relatively undiscovered but will only stay that way for a short time.
As we take our Lyft home, we realize just how mandatory recharging our parental batteries is for us. Three stops and numerous appetizers and drinks don't make for the cheapest evening, but on an enjoyment scale, it ranks pretty high.
Cella Restaurant & Bar
- 525 Polk St, Monterey, CA 93940
- https://www.cellarestaurant.com/about/menu
Esteban
- 700 Munras Ave, Monterey, California 93940
- https://www.hotelcasamunras.com/dining
The Whiskey Club
- 425 Alvarado Street, Monterey
- https://twc11.com/location-in-monterey
Liz Rhodus is a Program Manager for Amazon Web Services based out of her home in Monterey, CA. With over 15 years of experience, she holds Master's degrees in both Information Technology Management and Business Administration. Originally from New England, Liz and her family relocated to the Central Coast in 2016 for new job opportunities. When she is not lifting weights, enjoying food/drink adventures, or rolling on Brazilian jiu-jitsu mats, Liz is channeling her creative brain with photography. Liz and her family enjoy spending time at their golf club, Corral de Tierra, with all its year-round activities. Liz resides near Toro Park with her husband, two littles, and her 20-year-old son (away at college in Indiana).