Blueberry Mint Jam

Courtesy Jordan Champagne, chef, instructor and co-founder, Happy Girl Kitchen Co. in Pacific Grove

Yield: 12 4-ounce jars

Many people have great memories of going blueberry picking in the Northeast. One of my favorite children’s books is Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey, in which a mother and child head out to the bush for a day of blueberry picking and have quite the adventure before returning home to make jam. Blueberries are tiny and make a wonderful sound as the fall into a bucket. It takes a lot of work to harvest enough of any small berry to make jam, but it is a lovely way to spend the day.

Here on California’s Central Coast, it used to be that even cultivated local blueberries were uncommon. But it seems that we can figure out how to grow everything in California, and with the help of hybridists and soil scientists, we are now one of the largest producers of blueberries in the United States. So today we are able to make jam out of local blueberries, too!

4 pints blueberries ¼ cup lemon or lime juice 1½ cups organic sugar 1/3 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped ¼ cup lime zest

Wash, dry and place your blueberries in the pot you will be cooking them in. Cover the blueberries with lemon or lime juice and then with sugar. Even though blueberries have a tough outer skin, I still let them macerate overnight with the juice and sugar. is can help decrease the cooking time the next day. If you do not have the time to wait, then you can skip this step with blueberries.

e next day you can begin to cook your jam on a medium to high heat. e contents should boil the entire time. Add lime zest 5 minutes into cooking and continue to boil. Boil contents until gelling point is reached (10–15 minutes). Add mint leaves just at the end. Fill jars and process in a hot water bath canner.

ON THE FARM DEERHAVEN LAVENDER FARM

A family finds harmony with the land through lavender

BY PATRICE VECCHIONE PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE MAGDALENA

When she smelled fire one hot June day eight years ago, lavender grower Mary Nulph Jessen became suspicious and went outside. It was clearly not a chimney fire she was getting a whiff of—the season was too warm for that. e wind was coming from the northeast, not as it usually does, off the ocean a few miles to the west. Mary looked up at the sky, saw a big plume of smoke and knew it meant trouble. She grabbed her three dogs and two cats and got them safely in her car. By the time she drove out her driveway less than an hour later, flames had reached her property and were nearly licking the bottom of her car. Quickly, helicopters had begun dropping fire retardant.

Mary and her husband, David, live in a 10-acre meadow, a wide bowl of earth that’s surrounded by the forested Bonny Doon Ecological Reserve. A farm for more than 100 acquired the surrounding area for preservation. e Jessens had already rented it for more than 10 years and Mary had grown tired of watching the deer eat pretty much everything but the lavender, including her beloved roses.

“Lavender is the only thing they wouldn’t eat,” Mary says, and she figured she could work with that.

By 2004, she and David recognized a business opportunity that would fit their family’s lifestyle.

Mary and David had both been raised in Bonny Doon and loved the rural life.

“I grew up learning from the area’s Italian wine growers what we now call organic, biodynamic growing practices, following nature’s rhythm, in tune with the seasons,” David says. “ose growers did everything by hand, as we do.”

years, it’s been a pear and a plum orchard as well as a Prohibition-era vineyard. Part of this quiet green sanctuary was once almost lost to a golf course as well as to fire, and it is only a couple of miles away from Highway 1. But it feels miles and miles away from the pace of city life. It’s here that Mary grows lavender. Lots of lavender. e property is filled with big fields of the clustering pale green bushes with uplifted stalks and purple heads. Brush against the lavender as you walk by or bend down to rub it between your fingers, and the sweet, pungent scent fills the air and stays with you for a long time.

Mary and David started their lavender growing in the early 1990s just for pleasure, with about 30 ornamental lavender plants. ey’d just recently bought the property from e Nature Conservancy after the nonprofit

“I grew up outdoors,” Mary says, “is is what I know.”

Lavender is also not hard to cultivate.

“Lavender is one of the easiest things to grow—it’ll even grow in very rocky soil. at’s why I can grow it,” Mary says with a laugh. Its requirements are simple: sun, sandy or other well-draining soil and barely any fertilizer.

Deerhaven Herb and Flower Farm began small, with about 1,500 lavender plants.

At first Mary took her bouquets down the hill to Fambrini Farms at Highway 1 between the months of May and October. Soon she extended her reach to New Leaf Community Markets, the Bonny Doon Garden Co. and a few Bay Area florists. Her lavender products, which include handcrafted soaps, essential oil, gardener’s salve and sachets are now also carried by such stores as Mountain Feed & Farm Supply, Flower Outlet and Shopper’s Corner.

Mary also shares her expertise with the community, offering, for example, training in what she refers to as “the most scented lavender,” Violet Intrigue.

Inhale the best-known lavender, Grosso, and you breathe in that familiar, heady, camphoraceous lavender scent. Violet Intrigue, on the other hand, is sweeter, less pungent and far more delicate. For her essential oils, Mary blends the two varieties through a process of steam distillation. e byproduct of the distilling process is what she uses to create floral water. But for her handmade soap, Grosso is her choice.

For the culinary lavender that Mary uses to make lavender sugar, she says Violet Intrigue buds are the best. She also grows a bit of Maillette lavender for this purpose.

“Lavender sugar is delicious in shortbread and scones,” Mary says, and this visitor can attest to that. e shortbread is sweet and buttery with a hint of lavender, making what is normally a plain cookie anything but. e fire might well have destroyed the Jessens’ lavender farm forever. But today, both the farm and the deer are thriving, and for that, Mary is grateful.

From the window of her rebuilt soap shop Mary watches deer graze.

“When I’m wrapping soap, the deer are peeking in. I’m reminded daily how lucky I am that my workshop is here.”

the production of soap and salves to the Homeless Garden Project.

Summer is the height of lavender season, and June is when the lavender varietal called Grosso, the type that Mary was growing at the time of the fire, begins to come into its own. It gets harvested in early July. But as Mary left her home that summer day of the fire in 2008, her purple, budding crop was the last thing on her mind—she couldn’t think about her hard work literally going up in flames.

With the fire rapidly encroaching on their property, a fire crew determined it was a goner and decided to put its efforts elsewhere. However, they’d not taken David into account. He’d stayed on to defend the farm and could be seen from a helicopter above, one lone man on a tractor.

Undeterred, David moved mound after mound of dirt, using it to serve as a firebreak to protect his and Mary’s home and outbuildings. By this time, two 5,000-gallon water tanks had melted and the power was out. Seeing David’s determination, the fire crew returned to help, filling garbage can after garbage can with water from the Jessens’ swimming pool to help put out the flames.

Despite their efforts, one house on the compound and Mary’s soap shop burned to the ground. In total. they lost four buildings and most of Mary’s nearly harvestable lavender plants.

On a recent visit, the marks of the fire were still apparent—there are many charred tree trunks still standing. A meadow that was once scattered with trees is now nearly entirely open, as not only did the fire destroy many trees, but afterwards, a number of stressed but surviving pines were killed off by pine bark beetles. e remaining snags look ghostly, just the husks of trees. But since nature is ever resourceful and appalled by waste, those unbeautiful trees have been transformed into ideal nesting places for acorn woodpeckers and red-tailed hawks.

“After the fire,” Mary says, “we took a step back and realized we could grow much more lavender.” e forced clearing allowed her to double the size of her lavender fields, and she now grows about 3,000 plants. e loss of so much also gave her the impetus to try new varieties, leading her eventually to

Monterey artist and writer Patrice Vecchione’s latest book is Step into Nature: Nurturing Imagination and Spirit in Everyday Life. For more, go to www.patricevecchione.com.

Deerhaven Herb and Flower Farm

854 Martin Road, Santa Cruz 831.427.1919 • www.deerhavensoaps.com

EXPLORE: Deerhaven Farm is open to the public for U-pick lavender on weekends throughout June and July.

RECIPES: Please see www.ediblemonterey bay.com/recipes for three lavender recipes from Ellie Lavender, proprietor of Lavender Design + Cuisine in Santa Cruz: Moroccan Couscous Salad with Lavender Lemon Tahini Dressing, Strawberry Lavender Tart and Lavender Lemon Vinaigrette.

Dine Local GUIDE

All of these restaurants emphasize local ingredients, and they also advertise in Edible Monterey Bay! Stop by for a free issue, and tell them that we sent you!

Pt. Pinos Grill not only serves fresh, sustainable ingredient-driven meals for breakfast, lunch, happy hour and dinner; its kitchen is also the staging ground for all sorts of special events overseen by executive chef Dory Ford and his renowned Aqua Terra Culinary catering company.

APTOS

Carried Away

7564 Soquel Drive • 831.685.3926 www.carriedawayfoods.com A cozy, green-certified, take-out or eat-in café, Carried Away has a menu that changes weekly and features primarily organic, locally sourced ingredients. Owner/chef Tom McNary worked for many years at Chez Panisse, and his dishes reflect the seasons. Soups, salads, entrées and desserts are all made freshly daily. in-crust pizzas available on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Open M–F 11am–7pm, Sa 11am–5pm, Su closed.

BIG SUR Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn

47900 Highway 1 • 831.667.2800 www.postranchinn.com is iconic restaurant’s nine-course “Taste of Big Sur” dinner tasting menu delivers an inventive and gorgeous take on the Big Sur experience through exceptional ingredients grown on site or procured from local foragers, fishermen and farmers. Lunchtime guests can enjoy the breathtaking views from Sierra Mar’s floor-to-ceiling windows and cliffside terrace as well as a three-course prix fixe option and a five-course tasting menu comparable to the restaurant’s evening fare at a fraction of the price. Open daily for lunch 12:15–3pm, dinner 5:30–9pm.

BOULDER CREEK New Leaf Community Market

13159 Highway 9 • 831.338.7211 • www.newleaf.com e perfect place to stop for made-to-order sandwiches, trail mix and picnic supplies for hikers on their way up to Big Basin or Castle Rock State Parks. All ingredients are fresh and natural, meats are hormone free, produce comes from local growers. Open daily 9am–9pm.

CAPITOLA East End Gastropub

1501 41st Avenue • 831.475.8010 www.eastendgastropub.com Some would say that East End Gastropub is the new baby sister to West End Tap & Kitchen, but that reference risks diminishing East End’s grand presence, reworking a very much outdated location and delivering a robust, beer-friendly menu for an area of Capitola in need of something fresh. Chef Geoffrey Hargrave has created dishes that are comforting and familiar yet innovative, such as the rye pappardelle or Brussels sprouts with miso, maple and sesame. e restaurant’s own brews, along with tap visits from some local beer makers, keep customers on their toes. Open –M11:30am–10pm, Tu–W 5–10pm.

New Leaf Community Market

1210 41st Avenue • 831.479.7987 • www.newleaf.com e Beet Café at the entrance offers great alternatives to fast food, serving economical daily specials, wraps, pizza and homemade soup and smoothies—with free wi-fi in the dining area. Inside, a full deli has made-toorder sandwiches, healthy takeout salads and entrée items. Open daily 8am–9pm.

1750Wharf Road • 831.475.1511 www.shadowbrook-capitola.com Everyone’s special occasion restaurant, this unique destination is perched on a lush hillside above Soquel Creek. Its multi-level rock and redwood dining rooms are decked with fairy lights and you arrive in a vintage cable car—a truly romantic experience! New executive chef Roger Gowen offers farm-fresh local produce, fresh herbs from a rooftop garden and many vegetarian options. Open M–F 5–8:45pm, Sa 4:30–9:45pm, Su 4:30–8:45pm.

CARMEL

Aubergine

Monte Verde at Seventh • 831.624.8578 www.auberginecarmel.com Located within the romantic L’Auberge Carmel, a visit to Aubergine feels a bit like a trip to Europe. But the food is the real draw here: executive chef Justin Cogley was named one of Food & Wine’s best new chefs of 2013 and it’s no wonder. He’s an eloquent and imaginative interpreter of fine seasonal ingredients and executive pastry chef Ron Mendoza—who won the reader-selected 2015 EMB Best Pastry Chef Award— delights with surprising and inventive desserts. Open daily 6–9:30pm.

Basil Seasonal Dining

San Carlos Street between Ocean and Seventh avenues (Paseo Courtyard) 831.626.8226 • www.basilcarmel.com “Organic, local and seasonal” are not just buzzwords at Basil. is cozy restaurant in the Paseo Courtyard is the first and only one in the area to earn three stars from the national Green Restaurant Association. General manager/owner Denis Boaro and chef/owner Soerke Peters turn out intensely flavorful dishes—like black squid ink linguine with sea urchin sauce and Monterey abalone in vermouth butter sauce—and provide a full bar with a great selection of California wines. Many vegan entrées available. Heated, dog-friendly outdoor seating. Open daily for lunch and dinner from 11:30am, Su brunch 11am–3pm.

California Market at Pacific’s Edge

Hyatt Carmel 120Highlands Drive 831.620.1234• www.pacificsedge.com Enjoy organic, sustainably sourced farm-to-table favorites on the redwood deck overlooking the Pacific or indoors next to the cozy pot-bellied stove in California Market while waiting for the highly anticipated upstairs restaurant (formerly Pacific’s Edge) to reopen this summer. Breakfasts include vegetable fritatas and eggs benedict, lunch features fresh soups, salads and fish tacos. At dinner the focus is on seafood; don’t miss the octopus confit appetizer. Happy hour M-F in the Sunset Lounge. Breakfast and lunch 7am-3:30pm; dinner 5:30-8:30pm, winter; 6-9pm DST. Sunset Lounge 3:30-9:30pm.

Cantinetta Luca

Dolores Street and Ocean Avenue • 831.625.6500 www.cantinettaluca.com Prepared in the Tuscan tradition, using the freshest and simplest ingredients sourced locally or imported from Italy, this authentic Italian eatery serves housemade breads, pastas and sauces, hand-cut premium meats and antipasti with chef Jason Balestrieri’s artisanal salume. Guests are served in an atmosphere of warm tones and

dark woods, which invites lingering over a second glass of wine or another bite of tiramisu, apple crostata or cheese. Open Su– 11:30am–9pm, F–Sa 11:30am–10pm.

Carmel Belle

Doud Craft Studios • San Carlos Street at Ocean Avenue • 831.624.1600 • www.carmelbelle.com is bright, airy restaurant is a favorite gathering place among families, hipsters and others of all ages looking for a casual atmosphere and a stellar breakfast, lunch, dinner or freshly pressed juice. Chef Kyle Odell and pastry chef Eden Hutchison source only the best local and organic ingredients for their seasonally driven menus. Sign up online to receive Belle’s pop-up calendar and its changing Farmers’ Market Friday offerings. Wednesdays are Game Night. Enjoy your meal next to the fire pit or take advantage of the curbside pickup service to bring it home. Open W–Su 8am–8pm, M–Tu 8am–5pm.

Earthbound Farm’s Farm Stand Organic Kitchen

7250 Carmel Valley Road • 831.625.6219 www.ebfarm.com/ourstory/ At its Carmel Valley Farm Stand, Earthbound Farm’s certified organic kitchen delights with housemade soups, sandwiches, baked goods and a vibrant salad bar. Experience picturesque Carmel Valley as you stroll through Earthbound’s sun-soaked organic gardens and learn about its pioneering local heritage and commitment to organic integrity. Food is available for takeaway picnics or a relaxing afternoon at tables in the gardens. Organic groceries also are available for replenishing your pantry, watch Facebook for special events and classes! Open M–Sa 8am–6:30pm, Su 9am–5:30pm.

Edgar’s Restaurant at Quail

8205 Valley Greens Drive • 831.624.2888 www.quaillodge.com Wholeheartedly dedicated to farm-to-table cuisine, globetrotting chef Ken MacDonald has transformed this clubhouse restaurant into a paragon of fresh, local, organic meals. Enjoy salads like kale, almond and spelt or the traditional iceberg wedge garnished with foraged mushrooms. ere are tempting flatbreads and hearty entrées, including line-caught Santa Cruz sanddabs, grassfed steaks and burgers, as well as vegetarian options such as quinoa pasta and seasonal ravioli. All ingredients come from local farms and ranches—including, starting in 2015, Quail’s own on-site farm. Open daily 11am–9pm.

Il Grillo

Mission Street between Fourth and Fifth avenues 831.238.9608 • www.ilgrillocarmel.com e intent behind this new sister restaurant to Carmel’s popular La Balena is to create a more casual spot where diners can gather for a glass of wine, simple pastas and small plates of carpaccio and other Italian specialties. Prices are also lower than at La Balena, but the same chef, Brad Briske, winner with La Balena of EMB’s 2014 Local Heroes award for Best Chef/Best Restaurant, is creating the dishes, so expect impeccable sourcing and delicious results. Garden seating available. Open M–F 11:30am–9pm, Sa 5–9pm.

Junipero Street between Fifth and Sixth avenues 831.250.6295 • www.labalenacarmel.com La Balena’s seasonal menu changes daily but always expresses a spectacular and inventive take on the rustic food of a classical Tuscan trattoria. Chef Brad Briske sources ingredients from local organic farms and prepares the restaurant’s pastas and slow-cooked meats from scratch daily. Owners Anna and Emanuele Bartolini have created an excellent Italian wine list and a warm, inviting atmosphere, complete with back garden seating. Open Tu–Su 5–10pm, Sa–Su 11:30am–3:30pm.

CARMEL VALLEY Lucia Restaurant & Bar

Bernardus Lodge & Spa 415 W. Carmel Valley Road • 831.658.3400 bernarduslodge.com/wine-cuisine Where once there were walls, glass panels now can be folded back to bring the outside—including Carmel Valley’s nearly constant sunny weather—into the new Lucia Restaurant & Bar. Named for the Santa Lucia mountain range and wine appellation that beckons to the south of the lodge, the expansive restaurant replaces what once was Wicket’s Bistro and Marinus. And best of all, renowned chef Cal Stamenov is still in the kitchen, serving both his signature tasting menu and dishes à la carte. Wine list is equally notable. Open daily 7am–2pm and 5–10pm.

ROUX

6 Pilot Road • 831.659.5020 www.rouxcarmel.com Chef Fabrice Roux opened his namesake restaurant Roux in Carmel Valley in December, creating a charming European atmosphere with a romantic, contemporary interior and sun-drenched patio. e popularity of his small plates and paella just might be surpassed by his housemade French beignets with local fresh-fruit filling, served with Illy coffee as early as 7:30am for those who stop in. Monthly wine dinners and extensive wine list. Open daily 11:30am–10pm, Sa–Su 10am–3pm for brunch. 16W. Carmel Valley Road 831.659.2774• www.wfrestaurant.com Originally built in the late 1920s to refresh travellers on the stagecoach run between Monterey and Tassajara, this landmarked steakhouse still draws loyal customers from miles around. Attentive service and excellent steaks and dishes that make the most of our region’s fresh produce are its trademark; look for twists from new chef Greg Karjala, formerly of Sticks at Spanish Bay. Seating available in an outdoor courtyard and lively saloon as well as the historic dining room. Pet-friendly. Dinner 4:30–9:30pm F–Sa, 4:30–9pm Su–.

DAVENPORT Whale City Bakery

490Highway 1 • 831.423.9009 www.whalecitybakery.com Davenport’s artistic charm and oceanside location make it hard not to slow when you pass through on Highway 1. ose in the know stop at the historic Whale City Bakery. e bakery tempts with housemade breads, pastries, muffins and pies, but it’s only the beginning. Whale City also offers a full restaurant that serves up comfort classics and other hearty dishes. e bar and live music every ursday attract a loyal local following. Open daily 6:30am–8pm.

FELTON e Cremer House

6256Highway 9 • 831.335.3976 www.thecremerhouse.com Housed in the oldest building in Felton, e Cremer House showcases progressive, handmade food and drink with a nod to its historic mountain surroundings. is collaborative restaurant project between the Felton New Leaf Market and Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing has filled a niche in the San Lorenzo Valley, bringing organic craft beer, cider and wine on tap, and artisan, housemade breads and “pantry” products to this restored and revered property. Open Su– 11:30am–9pm, F–Sa 11:30am–10pm.

6240 Highway 9 • 831.335.7322 • www.newleaf.com New Leaf offers the best fresh food made and grown here on the Central Coast. Made-to-order sandwiches, salads and hot foods are all natural. No nitrates, hormones, antibiotics or artificial ingredients. Open daily 9am–9pm.

HALF MOON BAY New Leaf Community Market

150 San Mateo Road • 650.726.3110 www.newleaf.com Green plate specials offer healthy organic lunches for $5 daily and full dinners for $9.99. Lunches like Diestel turkey wraps and tri-tip sandwiches change daily. Hot dinner specials include classics like meatloaf with mashed potatoes and Smart chicken parmesan. Open daily 8am–9pm.

HOPE VALLEY Sorensen’s Country Café

14255 Highway 88 800.423.9949 • www.sorensensresort.com e next time your travels take you to Lake Tahoe, remember the adorable Sorensen’s Resort’s full-service restaurant. Enjoy specialties such as Mary’s natural chicken with a gremolata topping, fresh and wild fish, New York steak, garden-fresh salads and homemade desserts, such as housemade bread pudding and a wonderful berry cobbler. Enjoy Eggs Benedict on weekends. Accompany your meal with a fine wine or specialty beer. Open for breakfast M–F 7:30-11am and Sa–Su 7:30am–noon, lunch daily from 11am–4pm, dinner 5–8:30 pm daily.

MARINA Wild yme Deli & Café

445 Reservation Road • 831.884.2414 www.wildthymedeli.com Wild yme Deli & Café in Marina blends East Coast comfort food with West Coast organic and fresh cuisine. Offering a sumptuous array of sandwiches, salads and desserts, roasted meats and chicken, all items are made freshly on site every day, using the finest regional ingredients. Chef Terry Teplitzky also owns the renowned Michael’s Catering, which has served the greater Monterey Peninsula for nearly 20 years and is a partner in Monterey’s Boardwalk Sub Shop. Open M–Sa 10am–4pm, Su closed.

MONTEREY Restaurant 1833

500 Hartnell Street • 831.643.1833 www.restaurant1833.com Executive chef Jason Franey, formerly of Seattle’s Canlis, and pastry chef Ben Spungin, formerly of Bernardus Lodge & Spa and now corporate pastry chef for 1833 owners Coastal Luxury Management, have joined forces to create an exceptionally creative and sophisticated menu, helping 1833 win notice as Monterey’s Best Restaurant by San Francisco Chronicle’s food critic, Michael Bauer, earlier this year. e cocktail program is also a standout. Open Su– 5:30–10pm, F–Sa 5:30pm–1am.

470Alvarado Street • 831.264.1171 www.boardwalksubsmonterey.com Some people know Santa Cruz, but these boys know Atlantic City. Famous for the world’s first seaside boardwalk, a place both salty and sophisticated, brothers Howard, JT and Terry Teplitzky spent their summers there, jumping and diving and digging into submarine sandwiches. Working with stainless steel and reclaimed wood, now they have recreated for Monterey an East Coast-style seaside setting to match their Philly and Jersey cheesesteaks; cheese, gravy, crabby Cajun and other classically loaded fries; as well as meatballs and, of course, a wide array of stellar sub sandwiches. Open Su– 10:30am–11pm, F–Sa 10:30am–1am.

Cannery Row Brewing Co.

95Prescott Avenue • 831.643.2722 www.canneryrowbrewingcompany.com A tower of kegs topples off a big brick building on historic Cannery Row. Inside, guests are greeted by a keg room chilling the 75 beers on tap. A convivium of comfort food, executive chef Justin Robarge’s newest addition is a popular late-night breakfast menu. At any hour, enjoy a CRBC Burger, Short-Rib Grilled Cheese Sandwich or Hickory-Smoked Pork Chop, and wash it down with a Rock Star Beer or Small Batch Bourbon. Open Su– 11:30am–12am, F–Sa 11:30am–2am.

Jacks Restaurant & Lounge

2Portola Plaza 831.649.2698• www.jacksrestaurantlounge.com Perfect for any occasion, Jacks Restaurant offers the finest local cuisine the Central Coast has to offer. Sit down for breakfast, dinner or plan a private event on the pet-friendly heated patio or indoors in the fireside dining room. Features a breakfast buffet with made to order omelets and bottomless mimosas, locally grown produce, Certified Angus Beef and fresh seafood for dinner. Jacks Lounge features daily Happy Hour from 4:00pm–6:00pm with small bites, an award winning wine list and barrel-aged cocktails. Open for breakfast M–F 6am–11:00am, Sa–Su 6am–noon; dinner daily 5pm–10pm.

Peter B’s Brewpub

2Portola Plaza 831.649.2698• www.peterbsbrewpub.com Experience Monterey’s original craft brewery, Peter B’s Brewpub, located behind the Portola Hotel & Spa. Enjoy great food and award-winning handcrafted beers. Watch your favorite game on one of 18 HDTV’s or enjoy the pet-friendly heated patio with fire pits. Peter B’s is open daily with nightly Happy Hour from 4pm –6:30pm. Open Su– 11am–11pm, F–Sa 11am–12am.

Schooners Coastal Kitchen & Bar

400Cannery Row • 831.372.2628 www.schoonersmonterey.com Sit out on the oceanside patio if you can, but it’s still considered seaside dining if you are seated inside the dining room, whose polished wood, bay windows and seafaring décor seem like the interior of a sailing ship. Schooners Coastal Kitchen & Bar serves executive chef James Waller’s sustainable seafood and creative American cuisine of soups, fresh salads, sandwiches and woodfired flatbreads, paired with a diverse wine list featuring local favorites. Open daily 6:30am–11pm.

465 Canyon del Rey Boulevard • 831.393.1042 www.stonecreekkitchen.com A glass-walled kitchen in the middle of a spacious cookware shop turns out imaginative Mediterranean deli treats and sweets to take away or eat under the market umbrellas outside. Petite baguette sandwiches—like grilled chicken, artichoke hearts and Boursin cheese— are little works of art. Don’t miss the pistachio/cherry chocolate bark or the paella Fridays. Open M–F 10am–7pm, Sa 10am–4pm, Su closed except during November and December.

TusCA Ristorante

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa 1 Old Golf Course Road • 831.657.6675 www.tusca.com/hpr/tusca/en/monterey.html Blending the beauty and bounty of Tuscany and California, and inspired by the hearty appetite and abundance of southern Italy, TusCA serves up seasonally sourced menus made from fresh, local produce, meats and fish. Focused on foods that are “good for their guests, good for their community and good for the planet,” TusCA chef Steve Johnson delights diners with meals both intriguing and indulgent, particularly those baked in his wood-burning oven or served with the housemade pastas. Open daily for breakfast and lunch 6:30am–1:30pm, dinner 6–9pm Tu-Sa.

e Wharf Marketplace

290 Figueroa Street at Wharf No. 2 and Del Monte Avenue 831.649.1116 • www.thewharfmarketplace.com e Wharf Marketplace is Monterey’s newly remodeled, go-to fresh, local market with free 24-minute parking. Features e best-grown Salinas Valley lettuces and vegetables, artisanal cheeses, wines, draft beer, and other tasty food and drink options from Monterey County. e Café & Grab-n-Go selections are designed to satisfy your cravings for every meal. Catering made easy for any staff breakfast or lunch and ready-to-take home dinners are sure to delight. Comfortable indoor/outdoor seating available. Open daily 5:30am–7pm; Taste It ursdays offer complimentary wines and beer tasting with one-bite wonders 4:30-6:30pm.

MOSS LANDING e Haute Enchilada

7902 Moss Landing Road • 831.633.5843 www.hauteenchilada.com Gourmet Latin fusion dishes await those who venture off Highway 1 and into this fanciful restaurant with its new entertainment venue out back. Fiesta-colored walls are crammed with enormous gold leaf paintings by coowner Luis Solano. Try dishes like Peruvian Ceviche, Squash Blossom Empanadas, Crab and Huitlacoche Enchiladas or the popular Pescado Cubano—line-caught red snapper in a pistachio/pumpernickel crust served with tomatillo avocado sauce. Ingredients are organic as much as possible. Open daily 11am–9pm.

PACIFIC GROVE Happy Girl Kitchen Co.

173 Central Avenue • 831.373.4475 www.happygirlkitchen.com e menu changes daily at Happy Girl’s airy and bright Pacific Grove café, but the food is always delicious, organic and reasonably priced. e sandwich of the day is $6.50, and a bowl of the soup of the day is $6. To drink, you’ll find kombucha on tap and freshly roasted Four Barrel coffee brewed to perfection. Homemade baked

Jeninni Kitchen + Wine Bar

542 Lighthouse Avenue • 831.920.2662 www.jeninni.com Inspired by flavors of the Mediterranean, Jeninni Kitchen + Wine Bar’s rich and decadent cuisine takes you on a journey from Morocco and Spain to the Levant, birthplace of owner and sommelier, amin Saleh. Don’t miss the crispy octopus, lamb burger with signature eggplant fries and occasional paella nights and other special events. Readers of EMB selected Jeninni for the Best Restaurant Local Heroes Award of 2015. Open Su– 4–9:30pm, F–Sa 4–10pm. Closed Wednesdays during the winter. Happy Hour—”sips and snacks”—4–6pm every day (except Wednesdays).

Passionfish

701 Lighthouse Avenue • 831.655.3311 www.passionfish.net If you’re looking for a restaurant with playful, spectacular food and a scrupulous commitment to sustainability, this green-certified restaurant is hard to rival. e elegant dining room is celebratory yet relaxed, and the award-winning wine list features many sustainable names and is priced at retail. Chef Ted Walter’s menu is ever changing with the seasons, but always includes delicious organic local produce, inventive slow-cooked meats and an array of sustainable seafood choices. Open daily 5pm.

Point Pinos Grill

79 Asilomar Boulevard • 831.648.5774 www.ptpinosgrill.com With sweeping views of the coast near Point Pinos Lighthouse and a relaxed clubhouse vibe, this scenic spot has blossomed under the direction of executive chef Dory Ford. For breakfast, choose from huevos rancheros, chicken fried steak, eggs benedict and an array of tasty omelets. For lunch through dinner, enjoy dishes like Ale-Steamed Mussels, Crispy Fried Dry Rubbed Jerk Chicken Wings and all-natural beef burgers at lunch or dinner paired with craft beers, local wines or a variety of house specialty cocktails with our new full liquor license. Open M–F 7:30am–8pm, Sa 7am–8pm, Su 7am–6pm. Our happy hour is M–F 4–6pm with draft beers $3, wine $5 and well drinks $5.

PEBBLE BEACH Porter’s in the Forest

3200Lopez Road • 831.622.8237 www.poppyhillsgolf.com/porters New, later hours for dinner make it easier to experience chef Johnny De Vivo’s creative California cuisine, prepared with sustainable, fine local and regional ingredients.FreshcocktailsfrommixologistCarlosColimodio, craft beers and local wines round out the experience. A recent renovation creates a relaxed atmosphere of understated elegance in which to enjoy the beautiful setting.Expectthesamefocusonqualityandflavorat breakfast and lunch. Open M–Tu 6am–6pm, W–Su 6am–9pm.

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA Vertigo Coffee Roasters

81Fourth Street • 831.623.9533 www.vertigocoffee.com Artisanal coffee roasted on site as well as wood-fired pizzas, freshly made soups, salads, sandwiches, breakfast burritos plus pan dulces from El Nopal bakery in Hollister have made Vertigo a locals’ favorite as well as a great find for visitors en route to the San Juan Mission, Pinnacles or other area attractions. Owners Dmitri and Kitty Fridman have recently added regional craft beer, served on a 21-and-over beer garden, out back. Open Tu–F 7am–7pm, Sa–Su 8am–7pm. Closed M.

SAND CITY Sweet Elena’s Bakery and Café

465Olympia Avenue, Ste. D • 831.393.2063 www.sweetelenas.com Whether for a delicious breakfast or lunch or to pick up baked goods to go, this warm café provides a welcome respite from the big-box stores that surround it. Bakerowner Elena Salsedo-Steele uses fine local ingredients in all her quiches, galettes and sweets. Some are made from family recipes; all are from scratch. Her granola has a cult following. Sweet Elena’s is also a community

SANTA CRUZ

Assembly

1108 Pacific Avenue • 831.824.6100 www.assembleforfood.com is full-service restaurant from Penny Ice Creamery founders Kendra Baker and Zach Davis offers rustic California cuisine based on local, seasonal and sustainably sourced ingredients. Chef Carlo Espinas brings a contemporary twist to the approachable yet intriguing menu. e restaurant’s wood-metal-stone décor radiates from a long community table that anchors the center of the dining room, which is filled with natural light in daytime and bathed in the soft glow of copper accents at night. Open for lunch weekdays 11:30am, dinner W–M until late, brunch 10am Sa–Su, Tu closed.

Charlie Hong Kong

1141 Soquel Avenue • 831.426.5664 www.charliehongkong.com Charlie Hong Kong has been providing the Santa Cruz community with healthy, fresh, high-quality food since 1998. e restaurant’s fusion of Southeast Asian influences and the Central Coast’s local organic produce is what has made it a neighborhood favorite. Its slogan is “love your body, eat organic,” and its cuisine is proof that fast food can be good for you. Open daily 11am–11pm.

e Crow’s Nest

2218 E. Cliff Drive • 831.476.4560 www.crowsnest-santacruz.com A perfect spot to enjoy lunch or catch a sunset while watching sail boats glide in and out of the harbor, the nautical-themed Crow’s Nest is a Santa Cruz institution that never goes out of style. ere’s always something happening, from free seasonal ursday night beach parties to comedy nights and happy hours. Famous for its salad bar and house-smoked salmon, e Crow’s Nest is a member of Seafood Watch and is a certified green business. Open daily for breakfast 7:30am–11:30am; lunch M–F 11:30am–2:30pm and Sa–Su 11:30am–3pm; dinner M–F 5pm, Sa–Su 4:30pm.

Food Lounge

1001 Center Street • info@scfoodlounge.com www.scfoodlounge.com is airy, open space with a large courtyard is the creative staging ground for exciting pop-up dinners and special events, the First Friday Art Walk and the Artisan Food Market every second Friday. e new bar features local beers, wines, ciders and small-batch craft spirits, and elevated bar food by Tanglewood. Pop-up retailer, Ashby Confections, offers handmade chocolates, hot cocoa and treats. See the calendar at www.scfoodlounge.com for all dynamic events and hours.

Laílí

101B Cooper Street • 831.423.4545 www.lailirestaurant.com Exotic flavors of the Silk Road are served in a stylish dining room decorated in eggplant and pistachio colors and on a hidden candlelit patio. Locals rave about Laílí’s homemade naan served warm from the oven with a selection of Mediterranean dips. ere is a wide variety of deliciously spiced vegetable dishes, organic whenever possible, and all meats are hormone free and free range. Open daily for lunch 11:30am–2:30pm, dinner 5–9:30pm.

538Seabright Avenue • 831.457.2782 www.lapostarestaurant.com A cozy neighborhood bistro not far from the Santa Cruz yacht harbor, La Posta chef Katherine Stern prepares northern Italian cuisine using local ingredients—some foraged and some grown on nearby organic farms. Charcuterie is house cured, and the rest of the menu reflects whatever produce is freshest right now. Visit the chickens in the restaurant’s backyard and enjoy the eclectic atmosphere. Open Tu– 5–9pm, F–Sa 5–9:30pm, Su 5–8pm, M closed.

New Leaf Community Market

1134Pacific Avenue • 831.425.1793 www.newleaf.com New Leaf’s headquarters in an old bank building on Pacific Avenue is a worthwhile stop for all foodies. Crowded with gourmet natural foods, it also has a deli with sandwiches, salads and hot entrées. A dining area out front is great for people watching and listening to street musicians. Open daily 9am–9pm.

New Leaf Community Market

1101Fair Avenue • 831.426.1306 • www.newleaf.com e Westside New Leaf has a large deli counter and coffee bar, with a big selection of sandwiches, salads, bakery items, soups and other hot foods. You can eat at an in-store counter or at tables outside. ere is a community classroom here for frequent cooking classes. Open daily 8am–10pm.

e Penny Ice Creamery

913Cedar Street • 831.204.2523 www.thepennyicecreamery.com Lines out the front door of its converted Spanish bungalow are evidence of Penny’s popularity. All ice cream, including bases, is made from scratch on the premises using local organic ingredients when possible. Dozens of exotic flavors rotate seasonally, but two favorites are bourbon bacon chocolate and strawberry pink peppercorn. Open daily noon–11pm. Downtown – Kiosk 1520 Pacific Avenue, Ste. K2 Open Su– noon–6pm, F–Sa noon–9pm. Pleasure Point 820 41st Avenue Open Su– noon–9pm, F–Sa noon–10pm.

e Picnic Basket

125Beach Street • 831.427.9946 www.facebook.com/thepicnicbasketsc Across the street from the main beach, owners of e Penny Ice Creamery have opened an alternative to boardwalk fast food. Sandwiches, organic salads, coffee and beer, all from local food artisans, and of course Penny’s popular ice cream, are all on offer to eat in or outside with your feet in the sand. Open M– 7am–4pm, F–Su 7am–9pm.

Ristorante Avanti

1917Mission Street • 831.427.0135 www.ristoranteavanti.com is popular, Mediterranean-style bistro recently moved into a lush, more upscale location with a larger bar and expanded seating to better accommodate its loyal fans. Avanti’s menu remains true to its long-time commitment to supporting local organic farms as well as local ranchers, foragers and fishermen. e menu changes with the seasons, and specials are offered every day using local organic produce and meats, wholesome oils and imported Italian cheeses. Open for lunch M–F 11:30am–2pm, dinner Su– 5–9pm, F–Sa 5–9:30pm.

1220 Pacific Avenue • 831.426.9930 www.rosiemccanns.com No typical Irish pub, Rosie’s emphasizes organic, local ingredients in its traditional Irish dishes like lamb stew, shepherd’s pie, corned beef hash and fish and chips, as well as its California specialties such as grassfed burgers, coriander wild salmon, salads and fish tacos. Expect dozens of beers on tap—including local selections. All desserts are made in house, so save room for the Guinness-Ghirardelli chocolate cake. Open M–F for lunch 11:30am–4pm; dinner 4–10pm. Open Sa–Sun for brunch 9:30am–2pm; dinner 2–10pm.

Soif Restaurant and Wine Bar

105 Walnut Avenue 831.423.2020 • www.soifwine.com Celebrating the finest produce and meats from local farms, chef Mark Denham’s cuisine shows a Mediterranean flair, with seasonal dishes like speck wrapped figs, dry-farmed tomato panzanella and spice crusted albacore with lentils and Meyer lemon. A new expansion allows diners to see into the kitchen or sit at a gleaming copper bar and sip from Soif’s extensive wine list. ere’s a new local focus in the bottle shop next door and a cozy seating area for sampling wines. Monday evenings there is a raw oyster bar with live jazz. Restaurant open Su– 5–9pm, F–Sa 5–10pm. Wine bar opens at noon Tu–Sa and at 5pm Su–M. 334D Ingalls Street • 831.471.8115 www.westendtap.com Ask any Santa Cruz parent who appreciates food and drink where to go for happy hour with the kiddos, and they will immediately say West End. Adults and kids alike can’t get enough of the duck fat popcorn, fried calamari and flatbread pizzas, all amazing deals during the happiest of hours. But a visit to this remarkably designed restaurant at any time will not disappoint, with a lengthy and diverse menu and an even longer list of craft beer, cider and wine options. e outdoor patio is perfect for people watching amidst the bustling Swift Street Courtyard. Open Su– 11:30am–9:30pm, F–Sa 11:30am–10pm.

SEASIDE

Gusto

1901 Fremont Boulevard 831.899.5825 • www.gustopizzeriapasta.com Gusto owner Denis Boaro, a partner in Carmel’s Basil Seasonal Dining and a native of Northern Italy, named the restaurant for the Italian word for taste and his enthusiasm for delivering delicious rustic Italian food and great service can be seen in the happy faces of his diners. e bright red-tiled, woodfired oven just inside the entrance both sets the restaurant’s festive tone and produces terrific pizzas. Pastas are from Sand City’s Bigoli pasta and are made from organic flours. Open daily 11:30am–2:30pm and 4:30–9pm.

Edible Monterey Bay Summer 2016 LOCAL SOURCE GUIDE

ese businesses offer some of the best local, seasonal and sustainable products in the region. ey also advertise in Edible Monterey Bay, supporting our mission and enabling us to provide this magazine to you for free. Please drop by and thank them with your business!

BANKS AND CREDIT UNIONS

Santa Cruz County Bank

7775Soquel Drive, Aptos 831.662.6000| sccountybank.com 819Bay Ave., Capitola | 831.464.5300 720Front St., Santa Cruz | 831.457.5000 4604Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley 831.461.5000 595Auto Center Drive, Watsonville | 831.761.7600 A leading community business lender and full-service bank of choice for locals.

BARS AND LOUNGES

My Attic 1937

414Alvarado St., Monterey 831.647.1834| myattic1937.com Historic lounge specializing in classic cocktails where one can sit and experience Monterey—history, heritage and hospitality!

BREWERIES AND TAPROOMS

See also our 2016 map of regional breweries and taprooms between pages 32 and 33. East Cliff Brewing

21517East Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz 831.713.5540 Neighborhood brewery specializing in British style, Cask conditioned ales.

East End Gastropub

1501 41st Ave., Santa Cruz 831.475.8010 | eastendgastropub.com Local gastropub serving handcrafted food, beer and wine.

New Bohemia Brewing Co.

1030 41st Ave., Santa Cruz 831.350.0253 | nubobrew.com A Bohemian and Bavarian-influenced microbrewery in Santa Cruz’s Pleasure Point neighborhood.

Peter B’s Brewpub

2 Portola Plaza, Monterey 831.649.4511 | portolahotel.com Monterey’s first craft brewery features delicious, locally brewed beer and an innovative menu including vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing

402 Ingalls St., Ste. 27, Santa Cruz 831.425.4900 | santacruzmountainbrewing.com An award-winning, certified-organic craft brewery featuring wildly imaginative seasonal beers, hard ciders, draught root beer and kombucha.

West End Tap & Kitchen

334D Ingalls St., Santa Cruz 831.471.8115 | westendtap.com Local gastropub serving handcrafted food, beer and wine.

BUILDERS AND DESIGNERS

Dina Clark Design

831.466.9843| dinaclarkdesign.com A Central Coast graphic design studio for logos, labels, illustrations and websites.

Monterey Bay Builders Inc.

P.O. Box 366, Carmel Valley 831.659.9110| montereybaybuildersinc.com Since 1989, Eric Barstad has successfully taken on ambitious and complex projects, delivering the highest level of general contracting and construction management services for his clientele.

CATERING

Aqua Terra

529Central Ave., Pacific Grove 831.657.9790| aquaterraculinary.com Fresh and seasonal food ideas, rooted in sustainability.

Carried Away

7564Soquel Drive, Aptos 831.685.3926| carriedawayfoods.com Seasonally driven and organic prepared foods and catering operating for 25 years in the Aptos Center.

Michael’s Catering

445 Reservation Road, Marina 831.884.2400 | michaels-catering.com A premier catering company serving the tri-county Monterey Bay area for more than 25 years.

EDUCATION AND NONPROFITS

Habitat for Humanity/ReStore

719Swift St., Santa Cruz 831.824.4704| habitatsc.org A nonprofit home improvement store and donation center offering new and gently used furniture, home accessories, building materials and appliances to the public. Proceeds build affordable homes, community and hope locally.

90.3 KAZU

100 Campus Center, Building 201, Room 317, Seaside | 831.582.5298 | kazu.org Public radio for the Monterey Bay area.

MEarth at the Hilton Bialek Habitat

4380 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel 831.624.1032 | mearthcarmel.org MEarth is a Carmel Valley-based environmental nonprofit organization that is growing the next generation of environmental leaders through education, collaboration, partnerships and community action.

Quail Hollow Kitchens

235 Crown Drive, Ben Lomond 831.609.6226 | quailhollowkitchens.com Specializing in courses for the home cook including artisanal recipes, as well as French and American classics using homegrown and locally farmed organic herbs, vegetables and eggs.

Ag Against Hunger Farm-to-Table Dinner Series

July–October; watch website for details. 831.755.1480| agagainsthunger.org Ag Against Hunger alleviates hunger by channeling fresh surplus produce from farms to food banks and schools.

CampVintage

June118am–4pm EarthboundFarm’sFarmStand 7250CarmelValleyRoad,Carmel 831.375.6546|campvintage.org eplacetoscoutfortreasures,fromrusticantiquesto 20th-centruycool.

FARMS, RANCHES, CSAS AND CFSS

EarthboundFarm

Retail:7250CarmelValleyRoad,Carmel 831.625.6219|ebfarm.com ecountry’slargestorganicgrower,EarthboundFarm hasbeendeliveringdelicious,cleanproducetothelocal communityformorethan30years.

Inzana Ranch

Online and at the Pacific Grove Farmers’ Market, Mondays 3–6pm 855.687.6887 | inzanaranch.com A 30-year-old, certified-organic family farm growing a diverse array of tree fruits and nuts.

Live Earth Farm

Watsonville based, with a new farm stand 10am–3pm Saturdays at 1275 Green Valley Road and CSA pickup throughout the Monterey Bay and South Bay regions. 831.763.2448 | liveearthfarm.net Committed to sustainable food through a CSA, farmers’ markets and on-farm farm stand and education.

Morris Grassfed Beef

CSM, at markets and online 831.623.2933 | morrisgrassfed.com A provider of locally grown grassfed beef, fostering healthy relationships between people, land, animals and food.

Real Good Fish

CSF, Monterey and Santa Cruz counties 831.345.5153 | localcatchmontereybay.com A community-supported fishery connecting local fishers and sustainable seafood consumers.

GREENPRODUCTSANDSERVICES

Blade Tech

831.917.1330| bladetechusa.com Professional knife sharpening services for business and home kitchen; also offering high-quality knives and accessories for purchase.

EcoCarmel

SanCarlosbetween7thand8th, Carmel-by-the-Sea 831.624.1222|ecocarmel.com EcoCarmelisageneralstoreforplanet-andpeoplesafeproductsforyourhomeremodelingandfamily needs.

MRWMD

14201 Del Monte Blvd., Marina 831.384.5313 | mrwmd.org Visit the website for a complete schedule of disposal and recycling services, workshops and home composting supplies available at Last Chance Mercantile.

Ringlets & Roots–Kristen King

240 Main St., Salinas 831.905.4242 | ringletsandroots.com Where curls and color meet an expert in a “green” salon.

Solar Technologies

705 N. Branciforte Ave., Santa Cruz 831.421.0440 | solartechnologies.com Local solar energy system provider featuring efficient technology, design and installation for your home or business.

HEALING AND WELLNESS

Acubloom

833CassSt.,Monterey 831.383.9652|acubloom.com Healingsimply,simplyhealingwithKristanRoth,a healerwithmorethan20yearsofexperiencein acupunctureandanumberofothermodalities.

e WellNest Skin & Body

240 Main St., Salinas 831.601.0844 | yourskinswellness.com A holistic wellness and skin care center offering massage, pain and stress management, facials and waxing.

HOTELS AND RESORTS

Bernardus Lodge & Spa

415W. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel-by-the-Sea 831.658.3400 | bernarduslodge.com Located in the heart of sunny Carmel Valley, Bernardus Lodge & Spa is an elegant and intimate luxury resort offering renowned dining and spa experiences and a 10acre on-site estate vineyard.

Hyatt Carmel Highlands

120 Highlands Drive, Carmel 831.620.1234 | highlandsinn.hyatt.com Seaside hotel and oceanfront retreat that seamlessly blends the amenities of a luxurious resort with the refined charm of rustic Big Sur.

Hyatt Regency Monterey

1 Old Golf Course Road, Monterey 831.372.1234 | monterey.hyatt.com Located on Del Monte Golf Course amid 22 beautiful acres of Monterey pines, this hotel also offers a spa and close proximity to Monterey Airport and the city center.

L’Auberge Carmel

Monte Verde Street and 7th Avenue, Carmel-by-the-Sea 831.624.8578 | laubergecarmel.com A romantic, full-service boutique Relais & Chateau hotel within walking distance of all that Carmel-by-theSea has to offer, including the iconic Carmel Beach.

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

400 Cannery Row, Monterey 831.920.6710 | montereyplazahotel.com At Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa you’ll be able to enjoy the best of Northern California such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium, historic downtown Monterey and Fisherman’s Wharf, world-class golfing at Pebble Beach, shopping in Carmel, wine tasting in Carmel Valley and the memorable Big Sur coastline.

Portola Hotel & Spa

2 Portola Plaza, Monterey 831.649.4511 | portolahotel.com A relaxing retreat in historic Monterey surrounded by unique shopping, fine dining, spectacular coastal trails and beaches.

Post Ranch Inn/Sierra Mar Restaurant

47900 Hwy. 1, Big Sur 831.667.2800 | postranchinn.com A “sanctuary for the soul” offering the ultimate in luxurious coastal Big Sur lodging, including breathtaking views and exquisite dining.

QuailLodge&GolfClub

8000ValleyGreensDrive,Carmel 831.620.8808|quaillodge.com QuailLodgefeaturescomfortablelodging,an18-hole championshipgolfcourse,fitnesscenterandsustainablysourced,seasonalcuisineontheMontereyPeninsula.

Sorensen’s Resort

14255 Hwy. 88, Hope Valley 530.694.2203 | sorensensresort.com A historic all-season resort with rustic cabins and outdoor activities located in majestic Hope Valley at Lake Tahoe.

NURSERIES, LANDSCAPING ANDGARDENSUPPLIES

DIG Gardens

420Water St., Santa Cruz 831.466.3444| diggardensnursery.com A garden shop unlike any other: organic, bohemian, modern style from Santa Cruz.

Gardner & Bloome

OMRI-listed organic fertilizers and soils from Kellogg Garden Products distributed locally by:

Aptos Landscape Supply

5035 Freedom Blvd., Aptos 831.688.6211 | aptoslandscapesupply.com

Del Rey Oaks Gardens

899 Rosita Road, Del Rey Oaks 831.920.1231 | drogardens.com

Drought Resistant Nursery

850 Park Ave., Monterey 831.375.2120 |droughtresistant.com

e Garden Co.

2218 Mission St., Santa Cruz 831.429.8424 | thegardenco.com

Griggs Nursery

9220 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel 831.626.0680 | griggsnursery.com

Hidden Gardens Nursery

7765 Soquel Drive, Aptos 831.688.7011

M. J. Murphy Lumber

10 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley 831.659.2291 | facebook.com/M.J.MurphyLumberHardware

Martin’s Irrigation

420 Olympia Ave., Seaside 831.394.4106 | martinsirrigation.com

Mountain Feed & Farm

9550 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond 831.336.8876 | mountainfeed.com

e Plant Works

7945 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond 831.336.2212

San Lorenzo Garden Center

235 River St., Santa Cruz 831.423.0223 | sanlorenzolumber.com/gardencenter

Scarborough Gardens

33 El Pueblo Road, Scotts Valley 831.438.4106 | scarboroughgardens.com

Seaside Garden Center

1177 San Pablo Ave., Seaside 831.292.0400 | seasidegardencenter.com

Valley Hills Nursery

7440 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel 831.624.3482 | valleyhillsnursery.net

Mountain Feed & Farm Supply

9550 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond 831.336.8876 | mountainfeed.com Mountain Feed & Farm Supply is a unique and complete organic farm, garden, homestead, pet, gift and housewares store located in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

MRWMD

14201 Del Monte Blvd., Marina 831.384.5313 | mrwmd.org e MRWMD offers premium quality, OMRI-listed organic compost as well as topsoil and wood chips by the truckload at the district scales or bag-your-own at its Last Chance Mercantile shop.

Native Revival Nursery

2600 Mar Vista Drive, Aptos 831.684.1811 | nativerevival.com Growing, selling and installing California native plants on the Central Coast for more than 24 years.

Plant Landscape Design

2801 S. Main St., Soquel 831.476.1895 | plantlandscapedesign.com Full-service landscaping company: design, build, maintain, serving greater Monterey Bay.

Terra Nova Ecological Landscaping

Santa Cruz 831.425.3514 | terranovalandscaping.com A full-service ecological landscaping company providing design, installation and maintenance of beautiful living systems for public and private lands.

PRODUCE PACKERS, SHIPPERS, AND DISTRIBUTORS

Pajaro Valley Fresh

320 Industrial Road, Watsonville 831.722.3805 | maria@pajarovalleyfresh.com irty-three-year-old Pajaro Valley Fresh offers wholesale fresh fruits and vegetables from the heart of the Pajaro Valley.

RECREATION

Chardonnay Sailing Charters

704 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz 831.423.1213 | chardonnay.com Excursions aboard the Chardonnay II are perfect for any age group and fun for everyone from seasoned sailors to first-time adventurers.

See our Dine Local Guide, p. 55 and our 2016 guide to the region’s breweries and taprooms, between pages 32 and 33.

SPECIALTYFOODPURVEYORS

Earthbound Farm’s Farm Stand and Organic Kitchen

7250Carmel Valley Road, Carmel 831.625.6219| ebfarm.com Serving delicious organic, handcrafted food, gourmet groceries and unique gifts, as well as fresh produce and flowers.

FoodLounge

1001CenterSt.,SantaCruz scfoodlounge.com Adynamic,community-mindedvenuefeaturingpopupfoodexperiencesfrommanytenant-collaboratorsincluding:

Ashby Confections

831.454.8299 | ashbyconfections.com

Fogline Farm

831.212.2411 | foglinefarm.com

Kickin’ Chicken

818.458.8552 | facebook.com/kicknchickenSC La Marea of the Sea 831.331.3432

Tanglewood

831.713.8983 | facebook.com/Tanglewood.SC

Lifestyle Culinary Arts

lifestyleculinary.com

LionFish SupperClub

lionfishsc.com

Ocean 2 Table

getocean2table.com

New Leaf Community Markets

1134 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 831.425.1793 | newleaf.com 1101 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz | 831.426.1306 6240 Hwy. 9, Felton | 831.335.7322 13159 Hwy. 9, Boulder Creek | 831.338.7211 1210 41st Ave., Capitola | 831.479.7987 150 San Mateo Road, Half Moon Bay | 650.726.3110 Our mission is to nourish and sustain the community by offering the best, most wholesome food on the planet.

e Quail & Olive

3 Pilot Road, Carmel Valley 831.659.4288 | quailandolive.com A boutique featuring quality, California olive oils and vinegars, as well as natural skin care products and cookbooks for better health.

Santa Cruz Community Farmers’ Markets

831.454.0566 | santacruzfarmersmarket.org Lincoln and Cedar streets, Santa Cruz 120 Russell Ave., Felton 21511 E. Cliff Drive, Live Oak 360 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley 2801 Mission St., Santa Cruz For 25 years Santa Cruz Community Farmers’ Markets (SCCFM) has been committed to your health and to the health of the local economy.

Shopper’s Corner

622 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz 831.423.1398 | shopperscorner.com Santa Cruz’s oldest and friendliest family-run market.

Star Market

1275 S. Main St., Salinas 831.422.3961 | starmkt.com An independent grocer featuring the freshest, best tasting and finest selection of food in the Monterey Bay area; locally produced foods and wines are a specialty.

Stewart & Jasper Orchards

Monterey Plaza Hotel, 400 Cannery Row, Ste. C, Monterey | 831.375.6887 | stewartandjasper.com A family-owned almond grower committed to quality, eco-friendly practices, water conservation and customer service.

Stone Creek Kitchen

465 Canyon del Rey Blvd., Monterey 831.393.1042 | stonecreekkitchen.com Our mission is to create a unique educational and culinary destination for epicureans on the Monterey Peninsula.

Troia Foods

801 Foam St., Monterey 831.375.3354 | troiafoods.com A local dairy and fine food distributor for businesses.

Vertigo Coffee Roasters

81 Fourth St., San Juan Bautista 831.623.9533 | vertigocoffee.com Specialty coffee roasters that also feature wood-fired cooking and craft beers.

e Wharf Marketplace

290 Figueroa St., Monterey 831.649.1116 | thewharfmarketplace.com Monterey County’s fresh food destination, featuring the “bounty of the county”—locally produced provisions at their seasonal best.

SPECIALTY SHOPS AND GALLERIES

Annieglass

310Harvest Drive, Watsonville 831.761.2041x21 | annieglassstore.com Locally designed and handmade slumped-glass plates, bowls and serving dishes that add famed art and style to the dining room.

Botanic and Luxe

701A Front St., Santa Cruz botanicandluxe.com Botanic and Luxe is a lifestyle store in downtown Santa Cruz featuring home décor, gifts and botanicals.

La Sirena Nouveau & Vintage

328D Ingalls St., Santa Cruz 831.427.2766 | lasirenaantiques.com La Sirena has assembled the most eclectic selection of wonderful treasures, decor and boutique clothing, all nestled on Santa Cruz’s hip Westside.

Last Chance Mercantile/MRWMD

14201 Del Monte Blvd., Marina 831.264.6900 | mrwmd.org e only reuse store at the entrance to a landfill in the U.S. where one person’s trash truly becomes another’s treasure, Last Chance Mercantile provides convenient dropoff for reusable goods and an ever changing inventory of affordable, preowned and salvaged items.

Madrigal

Carmel Plaza, Mission between Ocean and 7th, Carmel-by-the-Sea | 831.624.3477 Offering attire for men and women who prefer a classic look.

Pacific Trading Co.

1224 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz | 831.423.3349 504C Bay Ave., Capitola | 831.476.6109 facebook.com/pages/pacific-trading-co/65027935549 Independent, local, family-owned women’s apparel boutique.

TOURIST INFORMATION AND SOUVENIRS

Destination Salinas/Salinas Valley

411Visitor Center, 222 Main St., Salinas 831.594.1799| destinationsalinas.com Destination Salinas offers everything about the area for visitors and locals alike: information, maps, souvenirs, T-shirts, local art and much more—plus we are a green business!

WINERIES AND TASTING ROOMS

Albatross Ridge Tasting Room

Mission Street between Ocean & 7th Avenues, Carmelby-the-Sea 831.402.8992 | albatrossridge.com Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines that express their place of origin just seven miles from the Carmel Coast and made from organically grown grapes.

Beauregard Vineyards

10 Pine Flat Road, Santa Cruz 831.425.7777 | beauregardvineyards.com Sustainably produced wines expressing the terroir of the Santa Cruz Mountains through minimal impact winemaking.

Carmel Valley Wine Experience

cvwineexperience.com A group of tasting rooms offering a unique way to experience wines in the Carmel Valley sunshine. Members include:

Bernardus Winery

5 W. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley 831.298.8021 | bernardus.com

Bunter Spring Winery

9 DelFino Place, Ste. 102, Carmel Valley 202.744.1343 | bunterspringwinery.com

Chesebro Wines

19 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley 831.659.2125 | chesebrowines.com

Cima Collina

19 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley 831.620.0645 | cimacollina.com

e Coastview Vineyard

19 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley 831.298.7521 | coastviewvineyard.com

Holman Ranch

19 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley 831.659.2640 | holmanranch.com

Idle Hour Winery

9 DelFino Place, Carmel Valley 831.298.7526 | idlehourwinery.com

Jarman Tasting Room

18 W. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley 831.298.7300 | jarmanwine.com

Joullian Vineyards

2 Village Drive, Carmel Valley 831.659.8100 | joullian.com

Joyce Vineyards

19 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley 831.659.2885 | joycevineyards.com

Mercy Wines

40 W. Carmel Valley Road, Ste. A, Carmel Valley 831.659.4321 | mercywines.com

Parsonage Family Winery

19 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley 831.659.7322 | parsonagewine.com

Hallcrest Vineyards

379 Felton Empire Road, Felton 831.335.4441 | hallcrestvineyards.com A family-owned business that takes pride in producing original, organic wines and hard ciders with a taste of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Holman Ranch Vineyards Tasting Room

19 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley 831.659.2640 | holmanranch.com Featuring diverse wines with complex flavors reflective of the Carmel Valley terroir and frequent special events.

Jarman Tasting Room

18 W. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley 831.298.7300 | jarmanwine.com Holman Ranch’s Jarman Wine is a new premium Chardonnay and Pinot Noir label. $1 from each bottle sold benefits the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation.

McIntyre Tasting Studio

169 Crossroads Blvd., Carmel 831.626.6268 | mcintyrevineyards.com Small lot wines that embody the mountainous, maritime terroir.

Percheron-McFarland

46 4th St., Gonzales 831.675.2311 | percheron-mcfarland.com Dedicated to a world-famous legacy of excellence in California Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Scheid Vineyards Tasting Room

San Carlos at 7th, Carmel-by-the-Sea 831.626.WINE | scheidvineyards.com

Scheid Vineyards Winery & Tasting Room

1972 Hobson Ave., Greenfield 831.386.0316 | scheidvineyards.com Forty years of success in family winemaking in Salinas Valley.

Storrs Winery

303 Potrero St., Ste. 35, Santa Cruz 831.458.5030 | storrswine.com Handcrafted wines made in the Santa Cruz Mountains; downtown Santa Cruz tasting room open daily.

Wrath Wines

Carmel Plaza, Ocean Ave, Carmel-by-the-Sea 831.620.1909 | wrathwines.com Producer of site-driven Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc from its sustainably certified vineyard and other respected properties in the Santa Lucia Highlands.

LAST CALL LUNCH IN LISBON

A reminder that the soul of a place is found through its food—and its people

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATRICE VECCHIONE

Strolling up the wide boulevard of Lisbon’s Rua Augusta from the coastline into the heart of the city, feeling increasingly hungry and verging on cranky, my husband Michael and I could have easily been led by loud barkers into one of the tourist restaurants conveniently situated along the way.

We pressed on, hoping for something authentic. e crowd at a hole-in-the-wall restaurant off of Rua da Madalena on a mere slip of a street told us that this was the place. Still, we had no idea that one of the finest afternoons ever was about to be ours.

It wasn’t until later that I learned Zé dos Cornos is considered one of Lisbon’s best-kept secrets. And it wasn’t just the food, although delicious, that made the afternoon last summer so memorable. It was the ties we formed there, and the reminder of the ultimate connector that food can be—that sharing a meal can make friends out of strangers and locals out of us all, no matter where we’re from or where we find ourselves. e tiny restaurant serves family style at a few communal tables. We were seated beside three jovial men who talked nonstop. To my ear, Portuguese has the most beautiful sound of any language I’ve heard, but I don’t speak or read it. When Michael and I looked up at the chalkboard menu behind the open-facing kitchen, we were stumped.

So I leaned over to the stranger beside me and asked, “Excuse me, do you speak English?” He smiled one of those smiles that make a person wholly happy, shrugged and said, “A little.”

“What do you recommend?” I asked.

“ey serve fish and they serve meat,” he said. “e meat is better.” at’s where it started. e three friends filled our glasses with delicious Portuguese vinho verde, a light, crisp, slightly effervescent wine. When the waiter arrived, Michael pointed to our neighbors’ plates and said, “We’ll have the same, please.”

We dined on full-flavored, just garlicky-enough, traditional grilled pork ribs served with rice and beans and a green salad. Once we’d begun chatting with our new dining companions, there seemed to be no language barrier at all—the conversation never stopped.

Employees of Portugal’s version of our TSA, Rui, António and João get together for lunch whenever they have a mutual day off. ey shared their dessert with us—a creamy custard called doce de bolacha. I wanted more, but out of politeness, restrained myself.

João asked, “What are you doing next?”

“No plans,” replied Michael.

“en you’re coming with us!” Rui said.

“You’ve got to try ginja,” António said. ey wound us through narrow streets and across wide ones until we arrived at a tiny storefront bar.

All together our hosts said, “Your money is no good here!” e bartender lined up five small glasses of a deep red liquid. Ginja is a cherry liqueur; at the bottom of each glass was a single liquordrenched cherry.

Food and drink and convivial strangers—is there really such a thing? Sharing a meal made intimates out of the men sitting next to us, and they introduced us to the local fare of Lisbon. We dined as if we belonged there, because suddenly we did.

I’m sticking close to home this summer. But when I dine out in Carmel, Seaside or Santa Cruz, I’ll keep my eye out for Rui, António and João—or for Pauline, Jane and Elizabeth, knowing there’s no need to go to the ends of the earth to make new friends over lunch! Maybe this year I’ll get to introduce travelers to the pleasure of our local fare.