food and drink guide - House Of Coco Magazine

London December 15, 2023

The Best London Restaurants to celebrate New Year’s Eve

As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve you want to be celebrating somewhere in style. Here’s our roundup of the best restaurants in London to see in the New Year.

A Unique German Festive Experience

German Gymnasium, is set to treat visitors with a uniquely German festive experience, inside their iconic Grade ll listed restaurant. Nestled in the heart of King’s Cross, with its rich history and distinctive interiors, it captures the very essence of German traditions.

For a truly German New Year’s Eve affair, guests can treat themselves to the set menu in the Restaurant. With 8 courses of local favourite dishes such as Seeteufel Rauchmantel, Letscho – (Monkfish, Tyrolean speck, rustic tomato & paprika sauce) or Kalbsroulade, Steinpilzfüllung, Serviettenknödel, Schwarze Nüsse – (Veal roulade with cep stuffing, red cabbage, poached bread dumpling & pickled walnuts), this menu will see the year out with a bang.

Looking for the perfect spot to welcome the New Year in London? Check out our restaurant ideas, offering a delightful mix of flavors and a festive atmosphere for a memorable celebration with friends and family.

A Vintage New Year’s Eve

This festive season, Quaglino’s, the renowned restaurant in the heart of St James’s, has delved into the allure of the Prohibition era, bringing guests a delicious menu specially crafted for an enchanting New Year’s Eve celebration.

Step back in time and welcome in the New Year with an unforgettable prohibition-style party. The evening will commence with dinner service at 5:30pm (with two seating options available), with the celebrations running into the early hours. Guests are encouraged to embrace the vintage flair of the 1920s with music from the Brooklyn Shakers and by dressing in 1920s attire.

A New Year’s Extravaganza by the Riverside

Get ready for an extravagant New Year’s Eve celebration at Skylon with magnificent views of the River Thames, a live performance by ‘The Revellers’ and a seven-course tasting menu designed to keep guests entertained to the stroke of midnight. The evening kicks off with a celebratory welcome Chambord Kir Royale, setting the stage for a lavish night. For those seated in the River View area, there’s a chance to catch a glimpse of the Mayor’s fireworks display, with the option for all guests to head down to the South Bank* for an up-close view. Skylon offers two options for the evening: the Early Bird Dinner, a three-course feast for £125pp, available from 5:30pm to 7pm, and the New Year’s Eve Main Event, priced at £375pp. The New Year’s menu features seven-courses showcasing mouthwatering morsels such as BBQ lobster, Heirloom beetroot, and a delicious trio of duck. The festivities receive an extra boost with a pre-dessert gin and tonic sorbet. When the clock strikes midnight, the fireworks display will light up the London skyline, providing a breathtaking backdrop to the New Year’s celebration. It’s an evening of live music, indulgent dining, and fantastic views – an incredible way to welcome the New Year in London’s prime riverside spot.

(*Weather and security allowing, as organised by South Bank)

A New Year’s Sky-High Celebration

At 14 Hills, guests are invited to reserve their tables for a grand New Year’s celebration, waving goodbye to 2023. Whether seeking a lively party or a memorable dining experience, 14 Hills offers the perfect choice. Indulge in an unforgettable evening with panoramic views of London, exceptional cuisine, dancing, dazzling entertainment, and a resident DJ, all set 14 floors above the City. For an early seating between 5:30pm-7:30pm, you can enjoy a meticulously crafted Five-Course Tasting Menu priced at £90pp, accompanied by an optional wine pairing at £65. The menu features delights such as Lobster, Langoustine bisque, kohlrabi, blood orange, and Fillet of beef Rossini with wild mushroom and Périgourdine sauce. For the entire evening, 7:15pm-22:00pm, the indulgence continues with a Six-Course Tasting Menu priced at £140pp, accompanied by an optional wine pairing at £95pp. This extended menu includes additions such as Scottish halibut, scallop chou farci, caviar fish velouté. As the night unfolds, guests can end the night on a sweet note, with the Valrhona chocolate marquise, yuzu, honeycomb, and sesame.

Celebrate New Year’s in the Heart of Battersea Power Station

Nestled in the historic Battersea Power Station, Fiume extends a warm invitation to celebrate the arrival of the New Year. Guests can bid farewell to 2023 with a crafted four-course menu, priced at £85pp, complimented by a glass of bubbles to set the festive tone. Prepare for an exceptional dining experience featuring dishes that include succulent Beef tartare, Lobster linguine, Roast duck breast or Poached monkfish, and a velvety Chocolate mousse. Fiume is collaborating with Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto this festive season for a delicious cocktail menu. Guests can immerse themselves in the spirit of the season with the Grande Eleganza, a delightful blend of Italicus Rosolio Di Bergamotto, Malfy Gin Originale, Smoked Rosemary Aroma, Lime Juice, Mediterranean Tonic, Sugar Syrup, finished with a sprig of rosemary. See in 2024 with an Italicus Spritz, a perfect fusion of Italicus Rosolio Di Bergamotto, Prosecco, Soda, and Lemon. The festive cocktail menu also includes the Itoddycus, Negroni Bianco, and Salute!, each offering a unique and delightful combination of flavours. After dinner and cocktails, guests will be only be a short walk from the iconic Battersea Park firework show. A visit to Fiume is not to be missed.

A New Year’s Night to Remember

Embracing the allure of Mayfair, Sartoria invites guests to welcome 2024 with a grand Italian feast priced at £150pp. The journey kicks off with a glass of Franciacorta and a delicious amuse bouche. The evening features dishes such as a fresh lobster salad, artfully presented in a catalana style with caviar, and an exquisite Burrata tortelli, generously infused with truffle and grana padano. The star of the night, Black Cod, takes centre stage, accompanied by tropea onion and liquorice, promising a harmonious blend of flavours. Concluding this feast is a Chocolate cake paired with passionfruit mango sorbet, ensuring a sweet send-off to the year. Over the winter season, Sartoria is partnering with Cambridge Distillery to create a new menu focusing on their Cambridge Truffle Gin, adding a touch of decadence to the festivities. Guests can indulge in truffle-infused cocktails like the Truffle Vesper, Truffle Negroni, Truffle Margarita, and Truffle Bellini.

Spend This Festive Season in Luxury at The Royal Horseguards Hotel

For those looking for the ultimate festive experience, The Royal Horseguards hotel is offering a luxury New Years Eve menu providing guests with the most opulent black-tie experience. Dinner at One Whitehall Place includes a selection of canapes to start, steamed halibut with keta caviar or pan-fried fillet of beef in madeira juice with raspberry sorbet or peach puree to refresh. From 7pm – 2am, from £450 per person

Food & Drink December 15, 2023

December’s Delicious Food & Drink Round-Up

As we are in December, what better month to highlight the amazing food and drink produce that has recently launched, or is about to launch.

It’s the time of over indulgence, but that doesn’t have to mean eating and drinking all bad things in December. There is so much to enjoy from locally produced frozen meals to super-healthy mushroom matcha. Outstanding ice creams and barista-style syrups to limited edition sausages also feature in this round-up.

Food This December

Strong Roots, Good Made Easy Meals, £3.50 each from Ocado

Strong Roots, the pioneers in plant-based frozen food, have done it again! Setting out the next step in their mission to make tasty, plant-based food for busy people, they have launched five bold, veggie-packed meals. Strong Roots meals currently at Ocado include; Creamy Mac, and Thai Green Veg Curry, Veggie Masala, White Bean & Lentil Stew, and Mediterranean Orzo Bake. Plus, soon to launch at Sainsbury’s in January will be the Thai Green Veg Curry and the Veggie Masala, so keep your eyes peeled.

Boursin, Truffle Flavoured, £2.95 (150g) from Tesco

New limited-edition Boursin Truffle Flavoured! A delicious puck combining the classic, creamy and crumbly texture of Boursin cheese infused with a truffle flavour. This adds depth and richness to the classic Boursin, elevating homemade recipes to a whole new level.

Nairn’s X Marmite, Marmite & Cheese Oatcakes, £1.95 (200g) from Waitrose

Nairn’s best-selling Cheese Oatcakes are a firm family favourite for a reason and have now been taken to new levels with an added dose of Marmite’s iconic flavour for the ultimate savoury taste sensation. Made with real cheese, wholegrain oats, a dollop of Marmite, and very little else.

Häagen-Dazs, Caramel Biscuit & Cream with Biscoff®, £5.40 (460ml) from Tesco & other major retailers

The collaboration we’ve all been waiting for, Häagen-Dazs Caramel, Biscuit & Cream crafted with Biscoff® is a match made in biscuity heaven. The mouth-watering flavour offers a delightful combination of Belgium caramelised biscuit, delicately paired with deliciously rich and sleek caramel ice cream, full of flavour and texture.

MAXI Babybel, £3.25 (200g), from Asda

After a long-anticipated arrival, the NEW Maxi Babybel has arrived. This 200g version of the nation’s favourite cheese snack, has just rolled out in the UK and unveiled as a limited edition!

HECK, Limited Edition Pork, Wensleydale & Cranberry Cocktail Sausages, £3 from Tesco

Three favourite Christmas flavours into one deliciously festive cocktail sausage bite. Pork, Wensleydale and Cranberry flavours, with 20 mini sausages in the pack. The limited-edition packs ae only available until 2nd January, so get yours now!

Graham’s Family Dairy, Protein Pots

Brand new launch of confectionery flavoured Protein Yogurt Pots from Graham’s Family Dairy in Scotland. New flavours include; Lemon Cheesecake, Chocolate Caramel, and Stracciatella. Each pot is sweetener free, has 22 grams of protein per pot, and relys on all-natural goodness. Currently available in Scotland only.

Drinks This December

Belvoir, Fruit Cordials £4 each, and Delicious Light Cans £4.75 (x 4) from Waitrose

If you’re looking for a deliciously healthy kickstart to the new year that’s naturally low in sugar and calories, and contains absolutely nothing artificial, fill up on Belvoir Farm’s two new fruit-packed thirst quenchers: Delicious & Light reduced sugar, low-calorie cans and the UK’s first No Added Sugar Pure Fruit Cordials. The light cans include; Raspberry Lemonade, Mango & Peach, and Elderflower Lemonade. Belvoir’s no added sugar cordials include; Sicilian Lemon & Lime, Exotic Mango & Passionfruit, and Elderflower & Apple.

BZZD, Energy Drinks, £15 (24 x 150ml cans), from Amazon

BZZD Energy Tonic Water is expertly crafted to lift spirits. BZZD Energy is the ultimate guilt free pick me up as it boasts more caffeine per 100ml that the UK’s leading energy brand, while being only 18kcals per can. What’s more, BZZD Energy is powered by nature, with caffeine extracted from 100% natural plant sources to give the ultimate all-natural, uplifting buzz. Can be used as a mixer or enjoyed on its own.

Tate & Lyle, Barista Syrups, £2.79 each from Morrisons

Create barista-style drinks at home with the new Tate & Lyle syrups, including Caramel, Vanilla, and Hazelnut flavours. Al made from pure cane sugar.

DIRTEA, Mushroom Match Super Blend, £53.99 per month

DIRTEA’s Mushroom Matcha is made using the world’s finest functional mushrooms sourced from the fruiting body which contains the highest concentration of active ingredients, including beta-glucans, triterpenes, and other active compounds.

Citizen Spritz, Non-alcoholic Spritz Mixers, £20 (500ml)

Crafted for special moments, these spritz mixes allow you to effortlessly create drinks similar to pornstar martinis or mojitos in an instant. Plus, as each bottle offers 20 servings, drinks can be made in bigger quantities which is perfect for hosting. All you have to do is add 175ml of soda or sparkling water to 25ml of Citizen Spritz and voila! The range includes 4 flavours including; Bitter Orange, Cool Lime, Pink Grapefruit, and Passionfruit.

December’s Delicious Food & Drink Round-Up – Words by Rachel McAlley

Check out more Food & Drink at House of Coco

Travel December 13, 2023

Anguilla : Discovering the Timeless Allure of this Caribbean Gem

Anguilla Unveiled: A Symphony of History, Charm, and Beauty

Nestled in the heart of the cerulean Caribbean Sea, Anguilla is a bewitching gem that beckons travellers with its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and a history that whispers tales of resilience and triumph. This slender slice of paradise, just 16 miles long and 3 miles wide, holds within its embrace a treasure trove of experiences that captivate the soul and leave an indelible mark on the wandering heart. Join me in this special three-part feature as I share my experience of Anguilla.

Embarking on the journey from the North of England, my chosen route involved a swift flight from Manchester to Paris, followed by another to Saint Martin. The final leg included a brief but scenic boat ride to the enchanting shores of Anguilla. Stepping onto the vibrant Calypso Charters boat, the weariness of travel instantly dissolved in the face of the islands’ breathtaking beauty. The rhythmic waves, kissed by the Caribbean sun, ushered in a sense of tranquility that effortlessly banished any lingering jet lag. A sip of the invigorating rum punch, served with the warm hospitality that defines the region, further marked the beginning of a journey where refreshment met the allure of the tropics.

A Tapestry of History:

Anguilla’s history is as rich and diverse as the hues of its crystalline waters. The Arawak and Carib Indians were the first to tread upon its shores, leaving behind the echoes of their ancient civilisations. Centuries later, the island became a battleground for colonial powers, passing through the hands of the French, Spanish, and English before finding its place as a British Overseas Territory, something the islanders I spoke with are incredibly proud of.
The echoes of this tumultuous history can still be heard in the charming architecture that graces the island. The Old Valley, the historical heart of Anguilla, is a quaint testament to the island’s past, with its brightly coloured houses and cobblestone streets that seem to whisper tales of times gone by. The best way to get about is by Moke, and that we did! What a thrill it was to whip around the island in these open-side buggies.

Beaches of Dreams:

Anguilla’s beaches are nothing short of a dreamscape. Powder-soft sands stretch for miles, caressed by gentle waves that paint the shore in hues of turquoise and azure. Shoal Bay, Meads Bay, and Rendezvous Bay are but a few names that conjure images of a James Bond paradise, inviting visitors to lose themselves in the rhythm of the sea.
Each beach is a canvas painted with the strokes of a master artist, where the sunsets are a symphony of colours that linger in the memory long after leaving the island. Whether you seek solitude or vibrant social scenes, Anguilla’s beaches provide the perfect backdrop for your Caribbean dreams.

Culinary Odyssey:

The island’s culinary scene is a testament to the cultural diversity that defines Anguilla. From beachside shacks serving up grilled lobster, which I must admit I devoured, to upscale restaurants offering a fusion of Caribbean and international flavours, every meal is a culinary odyssey. The island’s signature dish, crayfish, is a must-try delicacy that embodies the essence of Anguillian cuisine.
Venture into The Valley’s culinary precinct, where aromas of spices and fresh seafood dance through the air, tempting even the most discerning palates. Anguilla doesn’t just offer a feast for the eyes and ensures every meal becomes a sensory celebration.
I know you want my recommendations, so here they are: I recommend Sandy Island for beachside grilled lobster. Getting to this tiny private island takes a boat ride, but it is worth it! Lobster to die for and a remote island to boast about – the perfect laid-back lunch spot, but be warned, the rum punch here packs an extra strong punch!

For upscale fusion, one of my favourite cuisines, you cannot get better than Veya Restaurant, at Sandy Ground!! You will be serenaded by traditional music whilst you struggle to choose just one or two things off this incredible menu! Everything is a win. Top tip – do not miss out on the Lobster Fritters; get a side extra for the table, as one of my good friends advised. For crayfish lovers, it must be Vincy’s, located on Back Street, South Hill. It’s not just the fish that will blow you away here; the views are the best I have experienced in Anguilla. It’s the perfect dining spot.

Warmth of the People:

Beyond its physical beauty, the people of Anguilla infuse the island with its unparalleled charm. Warm smiles and genuine hospitality greet visitors at every turn as we drove past on our Moke’s, creating an atmosphere where strangers quickly become friends, and you can’t help but feel at home. The island’s small size fosters a sense of community, inviting travellers to embrace the laid-back pace and immerse themselves in the local way of life.
As the sun dips below the horizon and the sky is set ablaze with pink and orange shades, it becomes evident that Anguilla is more than a destination—it’s a canvas upon which memories are painted in strokes of warmth, beauty, and everlasting charm.

Exploring Anguilla’s Hidden Gems: Unforgettable Excursions

While the hotels here offer a sanctuary of tranquillity, the allure of Anguilla extends beyond the confines of their luxurious embrace. Embark on curated excursions that promise to unveil the island’s hidden gems, creating memories as captivating as the sea breeze.

The Goat Cave Hike hosted by Quest beckons adventurers to traverse the island’s scenic trails, immersing themselves in nature while discovering the secrets of Anguilla’s captivating caves. This guided trek is a journey through landscapes and an exploration of the island’s geological wonders. Be warned, wear appropriate shoes for this trek. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but if you can reach the cave, you will feel a sense of achievement and exhilaration – it’s a real team bonding exercise and I loved every minute of it! Perfect for corporate trips and activities and one I will be recommending to my business clients.

For those with a penchant for other hands-on activities, Quest also offers the Johnny Cake Making experience. Dive into the heart of Anguilla’s culture as you learn the art of crafting these traditional delicacies, a skill passed down through generations. It was not one of my personal favourites as I like to be out and about more than in a kitchen however, it was great to learn about this island’s delicacy and see how it was made. If you would like to witness the island’s beauty from a different perspective, Sea Life Charters hosts a captivating boat ride around Anguilla, a personal favourite of mine. Sail along the coastline, where azure waters meet rugged cliffs, discovering secluded coves and pristine beaches that remain hidden to many. These excursions are not merely activities; they are gateways to the soul of Anguilla, inviting travellers to forge a deeper connection with the island’s rich tapestry.

An Exit Fit for a Bond Adventure

Having made my grand entrance to the island by boat, my departure was nothing short of a James Bond-worthy farewell—aboard the shortest international flight in the world, a mere 8-minute journey back to Saint Martin for my homeward-bound expedition. Summing up my stay is like capturing the essence of a thrilling novel. Anguilla, with its rich history, pristine beaches, culinary wonders, and the warm embrace of its locals, is not just a destination; it’s an extraordinary sanctuary where time gracefully slows down, allowing travellers to relish the sheer beauty of each fleeting moment. As I delved into the heart of this Caribbean jewel, the tales of its history enchanted me, the charm captivated me, and, inevitably, I found myself irresistibly seduced by the timeless allure of Anguilla.

Join me and continue this exploration as I unveil the unique narratives of two of the island’s exceptional hotels. The first is The Manoah Boutique Hotel, read all about my stay here. The second hotel I stayed at was The Malliouhana, read all about my stay here.

For information on Anguilla, please visit the official website: www.ivisitanguilla.com.

FACT BOX:

Travel

Air France:

Flights from Manchester (MAN), via Paris, to Saint Maarten (SXM) from £436, bookable via www.airfrance.com. Price is correct at time of writing and subject to change.

Calypso Charters:

www.calypsochartersanguilla.com

From SXM, it’s a 60 second transfer by bus from the airport to the dock. Staff guide visitors through security & customs onto a 12-person boat for the 25min trip across the water.
Cost: $75USD per adult, each way (including complimentary beverages)

Anguilla Air Services:

www.anguillaairservices.com

SXM – AXA (or AXA – SXM) price for a one way is from USD$92.55pp

Round trip from USD$249.10pp.

The average travel time for this flight is 8 minutes.

Food & Drink December 12, 2023

Seasonal Sips: A Modern Connoisseur’s Festive Tea at TĪNG Shangri-La

Embrace the enchanting spirit of the season and enjoy iconic views of London by indulging in a cherished English tradition: the delightful experience of an afternoon tea at TĪNG Restaurant and Lounge by Shangri-La. A recent visit to TĪNG by our House of Coco couple, Eulanda and Omo Osagiede inspired a festive mood and left indelible impressions.

A Time-Honoured Tradition With a Festive Flair

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and what better way to usher in the festive season than to enjoy the revered English tradition of afternoon tea at one of London’s most iconic restaurants and hotels?

The time-honoured ritual of English afternoon tea gets a touch of elegance when combined with the excellent service and hospitality of the world-renowned Shangri-La brand. The modern connoisseur can expect to enjoy a selection of hand-crafted sandwiches and pastries and an impressive collection of curated teas served with traditional elements such as a three-tiered serving tray, delicate tea cups and glistening utensils.

The annual experience of Christmas at Shangri-La saw us step into a beautiful winter-themed wonderland from the ground floor reception. We took the lift up to the 35th floor and were welcomed into a world of festive colours and sparkling decorations as we emerged into the warmth of the TĪNG Restaurant and Lounge.

Dispensing with the solemnity of tradition, the decidedly informal but festive setting of the TĪNG Lounge made us feel relaxed and created a mix of curiosity and excitement as we were ushered to our table for our afternoon tea experience.

Regardless of where you sit at the TĪNG Restaurant, British weather permitting, you can expect to enjoy commanding views of the London skyline including views of the Thames River, the ever-changing architecture of City of London, the London Eye, Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf.

If the weather decides to act up, the unique architecture of The Shard means that you will have the unrivalled experience of dining in the clouds, similarities of which are featured in the TĪNG festive afternoon tea presentation.

Seasonal Ingredients and a Tea Adventure

Our experience began with a welcome blackcurrant purée and lemon juice palate cleanser followed by a sparkling glass of Louis Roederer Brut (Vintage 2015) champagne. Cocktails and mocktails are also options on the menu.

Attempting to choose from Shangri-La’s signature teas was where our adventure really began. Their extensive menu included a range of high-quality black, green, white and herbal teas with delicate flavours and indulgent aromas. We chose a Masala Chai – a spicy and robust brew – and a Green Gunpowder, a traditional green tea from the Zhejiang province of China.

The bottom tier of our three-tier serving tray held an assortment of crustless finger sandwiches filled with seasonal and fresh ingredients. Our selection of fillings included roast turkey, smoked salmon and cucumber, roast beef and truffle egg. Each bite into these moist and delicate sandwiches unleashed a range of delightful flavours.

In a slight departure from tradition (scones were served separately) the middle tier featured a savoury chicken and duck liver cherry jel hors d’oeuvre and a mini-burger containing roasted celeriac and confit black garlic.

The top of our tray tier was essentially Christmas on a plate with meticulously crafted miniature treats including a ‘Reindeer Mont Blanc’ made with blackcurrant and chestnut mousse and a ‘Red Bauble’ made with green shiso mousse, grapefruit and black pepper.

The quintessential freshly baked scones arrived after we had finished the tray items and were served with the traditional clotted cream and jam.

Elevated Experience and Impeccable Service

Our favourite and final item was the ‘Festive Shard’ white chocolate treat with a dry ice presentation that elicited the feeling of being amongst the clouds which, given our position on the 35th floor on a cloudy day, we actually were!

To wrap up our TĪNG festive afternoon tea, we dived back into the tea menu and made different selections. We spent the remainder of the time immersed in the views that surrounded us as we sipped our teas.

The entire experience was elevated thanks to the impeccable service provided by the attentive TĪNG Shangri-La staff, who ensured our utmost comfort and enjoyment.

The Festive Skyline Afternoon Tea at the TĪNG Restaurant and Lounge, Shangri-La, is available from 14th November 2023 to 14th January 2024, and is priced at £89, or £99 with a glass of Champagne. Afternoon tea is served between 12:30 and 15:30 on weekdays (Monday to Thursday) and up till 16:00 on weekends (Friday to Sunday). See ting-shangri-la.com/afternoon-tea

California December 11, 2023

7 of the Best Foodie Experiences in Monterey County

From quaint brunch spots to unique wineries and Michelin Star dining, Monterey County, CA has a diverse, vibrant culinary scene. Here’s our guide to some of the best foodie experiences in Monterey County.

Michelin Star Dining

The cool coastal town of Carmel by the Sea is quickly becoming a firm favourite with foodies. This postcard-pretty town is home to top-notch wineries and Michelin-starred restaurants. Chez Noir’s French-inspired menu showcases innovative, seafood-centric dishes that have earned them a well-deserved Michelin star. The restaurant comes from husband and wife duo, Jonny and Monique Black, both of whom bring their experience of working at Michelin-starred restaurants to the project. Jonny previously cooked at restaurants including Per Se, Atelier Crenn, and Quince.

Tucked away down a quiet street in Carmel, Chez Noir is a true haven for food enthusiasts seeking a unique and intimate dining experience. The velvet corner booths and open buzzy kitchen set the stage for a memorable meal. The menu boasts a fusion of flavours, from tantalizing appetizers to decadent desserts. Highlights include their perfectly seared scallops and the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate fondant. The staff’s knowledge and passion for each dish add a personal touch, making Chez Noir a must-visit for those who appreciate culinary artistry.

Craft Beer Paradise

For beer aficionados, Alvarado Street Brewery is a pilgrimage site in Monterey. The industrial-chic setting exudes a laid-back vibe, creating the perfect backdrop for sipping on innovative craft brews. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, the beer menu is a testament to the brewery’s commitment to quality and creativity. The friendly staff are more than happy to guide you through their extensive selection, ensuring you find the perfect pint to pair with the bar food. Alvarado Street Brewery is a haven for beer lovers and a testament to Monterey’s thriving craft beer scene.

Coastal Elegance with a Culinary Twist

Just a stone’s throw from the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf, Jacks Monterey at the Portola Hotel & Spa, is the epitome of coastal elegance. Tall bar tables, as well as plush lounge-style sofas surround the full-length bar that stretches across the back of the restaurant. Unlike some hotel restaurants, this is contemporary and cosy. At one end is an open fire and the lobby entrance features a tree adorned with twinkly lights. While the setting is fabulous, the menu and service are excellent. The menu showcases locally sourced ingredients, transforming them into exquisite dishes that capture the essence of the region. The Jacks Famous Chowder is a standout, a hearty bowl of the local dish is brimming with clams, dungeness crab, organic corn, artichoke hearts and bacon. For mains choose from fresh salads, pizza or larger plates like their Short Rib Ravioli served in a silky tomato, mushroom and sherry cream sauce with shaved parmesan. The drinks menu features some fantastic local wines like the Bernardus Griva Sauvignon Blanc and Imagery Pinot Noir. There is a great selection of cocktails too. With its stylish interior and prime location, Jacks Monterey stands out as a top-notch dining destination on the Monterey Peninsula.

Sip, Savor, and Cruise

Embark on a wine adventure like no other with Kombi Wine Tours, where vintage style meets exquisite vintages. Board the classic VW Kombi, ‘Sweet Pickle’ and journey through the scenic vineyards and wineries of Monterey, indulging in a curated selection of wines from the region. Their knowledgeable guide, Steve is full of local tit-bits and banter which makes the tour not just educational but thoroughly entertaining.

Carmel by the Sea is home to husband and wife wineries, Dawn’s Dream and Galante Vineyards. Jack Galante heads up Galante Vineyards, what Jack doesn’t know about wine is not worth knowing. He is Mr Carmel by the Sea (the town was founded by his great grandfather) and his knowledge and passion are infectious. His wines are rich, full bodied and include Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as limited amounts of estate grown Malbec, Petite Sirah, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, and several other blends. Every bottle has a ‘cowboy philosophy’ on the label, which is very Jack. He also commissions local artists to create unique pieces of art on bottles which can be refilled or saved as an investment.

Meanwhile Jack’s wife, Dawn, is serving up some outstanding tipples over at Dawn’s Dream Winery which is tied to non-profits for women and children. Her dedication to producing her ‘wines with a purpose’ has been revolutionary in the industry, supporting many great causes each year. The microclimate in the region is perfect for crips Pinots and Chardonnay. Dawn has dedicated three of her Pinots to each of her daughters, Rachel, Alyssa and Nicole. I loved Jack’s style but Dawn’s wines were my favourite.

Just along from Carmel is Corral Wine Co. Their tasting room has a ‘casual, local wine bar’ feel and this is reflected in their motto, ‘we aren’t fancy, we just make good wine.’ Corral’s young winemaker Adrien Valenzuela is creative and, on a mission, to produce well balanced wine with a lot of flavour. He says that sourcing grapes from some of the regions very best vineyards is ‘key to their success.’ His wines are exceptional, the Sauvignon Blanc is vibrant and crisp with lemon blossom notes and a pleasant minerality. Their Rose wine is also a big hit, it’s light and delicate, with aromas of strawberry and orange blossom.

Puma Road Winery is a family operation who use grapes grown in Apex vineyard soil which gives their wines a unique taste. Expect crisp Blanc de Blancs, cool Chardonnays, and light Pinot Noir. All their wines are crafted from grapes direct from their own estate and they reserve five percent of the output to create exclusive wines for their label. Their wine tasting room is close to Fisherman’s Wharf and offers wine by the glass and bottle, small bites, and often has live music.

Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, Kombi Wine Tours tailor the experience to ensure you get the most out of each tasting.

Seafood Extravaganza

For a seafood feast that celebrates the bounty of the ocean, Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette is the place to be. This award-winning upscale seafood restaurant is perched above the marina dunes at the Sanctury Beach Resort. The space is carved out into three distinct dining spaces, a buzzing bar and lounge, perfect for pre-dinner drinks, an expansive dining room that faces an open raw bar and for long summer evenings there’s an al fresco dining patio.

Located a short drive from Monterey Bay, this restaurant exudes coastal charm with a menu that pays homage to the region’s maritime heritage. The raw bar is a standout, featuring an array of oysters and seafood. The wood-fired grill adds a smoky richness to dishes like the grilled octopus and honey glazed duck. The casual yet sophisticated atmosphere, coupled with the welcoming staff, makes Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette a go-to spot for those craving a seafood extravaganza.

Quaint and Quirky Culinary Haven

Tucked five minutes from Cannery Row is Happy Girl Kitchen, a quaint and quirky culinary haven with a focus on organic, vegan and vegetarian options. The menu, filled with farm-fresh ingredients, reflects the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and community. The avocado toast is a must-try, showcasing the simplicity and excellence of Happy Girl Kitchen’s approach to food. The team here specialise in making jams and pickles so you can stock up on rich tasty preserves when you visit. Whether you’re in the mood for a brunch or a take-away lunch, Happy Girl Kitchen delivers a fresh, seasonal menu that celebrates the beauty of wholesome unpretentious food.

Enjoy the stunning Californian vistas

Lucia restaurant at Bernardus Lodge and Spa is nothing short of spectacular. Situated in the Carmel Valley it’s nestled on the grounds of rolling vineyards, olive orchards and 28 acres of fragrant lavender. With beautiful vistas, tables at Lucia are sought after.

The main dining room, located just off the lobby is contemporary. French wooden floors, soft cream furnishings, chandeliers and a focal, showpiece fireplace set the scene for a culinary cache. The patio doors open onto an al fresco dining terrace.

The day I visited the Californian sun was shining so the outdoor terrace was bustling with ‘ladies who lunch’ and while it’s a popular spot, it still has an air of calm and tranquillity.

Slick, seamless service and a menu dedicated to delicious farm-to-table fare is what sets Lucia apart from other restaurants. There’s a great selection of small and large plates to choose from. The wood brick pizzas are divine, the seasonal salads are served like a work of art and the larger plates source prime cuts of meat and market fish. Choose from a selection of wines from the Bernardus vineyard to accompany your meal.

After lunch you can wander around the gardens or enjoy a game of bocce or croquet on the lawn.

House of Coco travelled to Monterey County courtesy of See Monterey.