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HER Helmet Thursdays–Detailed Listings for Charter Participants

Laurel, where’s your helmet?  At the E & R venues, it works like magic:
Show it as evidence you biked there, and—bingo!—get a discount.
More families and others will be bicycling
in beautiful Monterey County, thanks to the extra warm welcome for cyclists!

(Lower photo courtesy of Steve E. Anderson.)

Update – Thanksgiving 2010: This Charter Participants post will no longer be updated after November 30, 2010. To learn of any changes to the Charter Participants’ listings–plus access listings for new participants–please refer to

the new listings page of charter participants plus all later participants. 

* * * * *

To take a look at the brief listings for Charter Participants, click here!

Read “Partner Up with HER Helmet Thursdays Ecology-Economy Leaders: Prelude to the Detailed Listings” for answers to the following questions and more:

  • Do we have to bike to an “H”/lodging place?
  • Do we have to bike the entire way to an “E or “R” place?
  • Are there any date restrictions?
  • What about drinking alcohol and biking?
  • Which are the easiest venues to bike to with kids?
  • Do the more formal venues offer valet parking for bikes as with cars?
  • We want to make a reservation. How can we estimate our arrival time?
  • Where can we find additional route tips?

Short of time, or rather chat than read?  Please feel free to contact me.

Below are the detailed listings for Charter Participants in all three H-E-R categories.

How do cyclists get the HER Helmet Thursdays discount?

 

  • For the “H” category, cyclists show they’ll be bicycling, through special arrangements detailed in “How to Get a Lodging Discount.”
  • For the “E” and “R” categories, cyclists bike to the establishment, walk in with their helmet in hand, and mention HER Helmet Thursdays. Forgot the helmet? Sorry.   No helmet, no discount. (An exception is made if an individual establishment lists a policy here of allowing either a bike pump or a helmet as evidence of cycling.)

    “H” = Hotels/other lodging

    Prior to requesting an “H” category discount, please read “How to get a lodging discount.”

    Mention HER Helmet Thursdays—and show your bike, or your Monterey County bike rental receipt/agreement—for a discount on your Thursday night stay at:
    1. Carmel Mission Inn, Carmel – 10% off.  This is a quaint, yet stylish setting with an array of gracious amenities that include a heated pool, fitness center, and room service. Carmel Mission Inn has created a destination within a destination, and they offer fantastic facilities for weddings, business meetings, and special events.  Like those Carmel Barnyard shops and gardens?  You’re directly next door if you stay at Carmel Mission Inn, with a welcoming walkway in-between.  Bike tips:  If you’re arriving by bicycle: Coming from the north on Highway 1, take a left onto Carmel Valley Road and make a right onto the new bike path that runs parallel to and between Highway 1 and the back side of the Barnyard Shopping Center (you’ll see the tall windmill of the Barnyard). Continue along the bike path until you’re just past the Barnyard; Carmel Mission is on your immediate left!  If you’re arriving by motor vehicle: Coming from the north on Hwy 1, take a left on Rio Road (which is the first stoplight after Carmel Valley Road). Carmel Mission Inn is on your left. Make a U-turn at your first opportunity then turn right into the inn’s driveway.
    2. Carmel River Inn, Carmel–50% off or best available rate. Please call 831-624-1575 for discount. Located just one mile from the village of Carmel-by-the-Sea—with its unique character, many art galleries, and charming shops—this is a great stop during your bike ride down the California coast. Bike tips: Located on Oliver Road, just off Highway 1. Oliver Road is just after Rio Road.
    3. Courtyard by Marriott, Salinas – 15% off. Free high-speed wireless (wi-fi) Internet. All rooms feature large work desk and executive chair. Minutes from top agricultural companies of the country. Cocktail lounge six days weekly. Heated indoor pool and spa. Bike tips: located near Westridge Shopping Center. Of course, to get the discount, it is not necessary to bike to your lodging destination. However, if you wish to cycle to the Courtyard, here are two options. (1) Bike-and ride option from Oldtown Salinas: From the Oldtown Salinas MST Transit Center, you may put your bike on the MST 42. This will provide you with a nice introductory view of the community on your bus ride, which takes about 45 minutes. Or, (2) Bike from Oldtown Salinas: For more experienced cyclists, you may prefer to bike there as follows. As usual, when sharing the road with cars, wear high-visibility clothing and exercise extra caution. From the MST Transit Center, cross Salinas Street to the big parking lot; pass the National Steinbeck Center through an alleyway (nice wall mural of John Steinbeck!). Turn left at the alley by the parking garage, and turn right onto W. Market Street; the intersection with a traffic light is right there, and the directional sign by the traffic light states “to North Main Street.” (Note: Monterey Street becomes North Main Street at West Market; and there’s no sign indicating Monterey Street at the intersection.) You can identify the sidewalk you are to get on when you cross West Market Street and descend under the railroad bridge, because it’s elevated (a higher curb, that is). For safety, as you go under the railroad overcrossing, STAY ON THE SIDEWALK (walk your bike). Take a LEFT at the first light after the railroad overcrossing–it’s West Rossi Street–and take West Rossi for 1 to 1.5 miles to N. Davis Road, then turn RIGHT onto N. Davis. You pass through a shopping area on your right, and eventually you cross W. Laurel Street. You will see the Courtyard by Marriott, and the Residence Inn by Marriott, from there. At the next traffic signal, at the intersection of North Davis and West Laurel, Inn is on the left, across W. Laurel.
    4. Cypress Inn, Carmel – 30% off, excluding holidays and special event weeks. Historic landmark hotel since 1929. Located in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and just blocks from Carmel’s famous pet friendly beach. Dogs and cats are welcome guests. Cypress Inn is owned by Doris Day and Dennis LeVett. From Cypress Inn, a short bike ride will take you to Carmel’s Scenic Drive, above Carmel Beach and continuing along to Carmel River Beach. Cypress Inn is also a great starting place for bike rides to Carmel Village shops and art galleries—avoid parking problems.
    5. Forest Lodge, Carmel – 30% off regular rack rate.
    6. InterContinental The Clement Monterey – 20% off.  InterContinental The Clement Monterey is the newest waterfront hotel on the Monterey Bay, opened in May of 2008.  Located next door to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the hotel enjoys a spectacular location on the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Beautiful interior design, artwork, as well as incredibly comfortable guest room furnishings and bedding make The Clement the perfect choice for an overnight getaway.  For general information and inquiries, please call the hotel at (831) 375-4500. To make individual reservations, please contact Jason Ngo, VIP Coordinator, at icreservation [AT] pahotel [DOT] com, or the direct line (831) 642-2003.  For any reservations of 10 rooms or more, please contact Catherine Faber, Director of Sales & Marketing; cfaber [AT] pahotel [DOT] com. Bike tips:  The Clement is a great location for cyclists, directly below the bike path/multi-use trail on Cannery Row.  And the Clement offers bicycle valet parking!  If you’re coming from Pacific Grove on the bike path, make a left off the path onto Irving Street, then a right on Cannery Row. The Clement will be on your left.  If you’re coming from Wharf #1, Monterey, take the bike path to Prescott (which is the first street after the Cannery Row IMAX). Make a right on Prescott, then a left on Cannery Row. The Clement will be on your right.
    7. Jabberwock Inn, Monterey – 20% off. The Jabberwock Inn is a lavish Bed and Breakfast nestled among half an acre of gardens replete with koi ponds, waterfalls, topiary, statues, and brick walkways. From its initial incarnation in 1911 as an Edwardian manse in the Craftsman style, it was acquired by the Catholic Church to host Catechism classes. In 1981, it became the playground of a Lewis Carroll enthusiast, and that influence predominates–the seven guest bedrooms bear names from his poem from which the Inn itself took its name. In 2007 the current innkeepers, John Hickey and Dawn Perez, enhanced the whimsical setting with their own touches of elegance and comfort, from Sleep-Number beds with lace-trimmed sheets to complimentary wireless Internet access, to ceramic music boxes on marble-topped tables, carafes of brandy, and homemade cookies and milk at bedtime. They are renowned for their inimitable chef-prepared breakfasts and delicious lighter fare later in the day. They are located blocks from Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and the multi-use path (rec trail/bike path). They have bocce ball, and easy access to nearby tennis, golf, kayaking, and an abundance of other activities. A mere 15-minute drive brings you 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach, the Big Sur coast route, Carmel-by-the-Sea, or other Monterey area landmarks. Or you can relax in your room, with expansive Monterey views, entrancing toys, or even aromatherapy massage. Bike tips: Coming from Fisherman’s Wharf/Wharf #1, get on the bike path/multi-use trail, and continue to cycle on the bike path away from the Fisherman’s Wharf side (in the direction of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, but you won’t go nearly that far). Stay on the path until you reach Hoffman Street (Hoffman is just after Trailside Cafe on your left, and Bay Bikes on your right). After turning left on Hoffman, go up the slight hill (if cycling with children, perhaps walk bikes along the sidewalk) to Lighthouse Avenue. Cross Lighthouse (again, if cycling with kids, walk bikes across). Go up two blocks, first passing Hawthorne, then you reach Blaine. Turn left on Blaine. Jabberwock is on the left-hand corner of Blaine and Hoffman. There is an ivy fence around the property.
    8. Lamp Lighter Inn, Carmel – 30% off regular rack rate.
    9. Los Laureles Lodge, Carmel Valley – 20% off.
    10. Monterey Fireside Lounge, Monterey – 10% off. Convenient location, warm, caring hospitality. Vet and pet-sitting a block away. Bike tips: Very near the bike lane that borders the Naval Postgraduate School and goes straight to the coastal bike path. Close to NPS, Monterey Peninsula College, Lake El Estero; convenient to fairgrounds, Fisherman’s Wharf, downtown Monterey, and more.
    11. Monterey Hostel, Monterey – 50% off private rooms or dorm beds. Cycling groups welcome too. Bike tips: Located four blocks above Cannery Row at the corner of Irving and Hawthorne. (Irving intersects the bike path/multi-use trail.) Very near bike path and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Convenient to historic downtown Monterey, Fisherman’s Wharf, and MST bus lines. (The local/MST bus system has a bike-and-ride program.)
    12. Monterey Hotel, Monterey– 30% off or best available rate. Please call 831-375-3184 for discount. Located on Alvarado Street in the heart of Monterey, the Monterey Hotel is surrounded by California history, restaurants, retail shops, and more. Bike tips: Monterey Hotel is just two and a half blocks from the bike path and Fisherman’s Wharf, and one mile from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Note this bike tip: leaving the bike path at Fisherman’s Wharf, cross the Custom House Plaza. You’ll be on Del Monte Avenue, at a T-intersection where it meets Alvarado Street. You may walk up Alvarado on the sidewalk from here. Or, to cycle from the Del Monte-Alvarado T-intersection, note that cyclists are directed to the right, to use Calle Principal (because Alvarado is a one-way street). No worries, Calle Principal is a wider street anyway! Bike up Calle Principal until you see Comerica Bank on your left. Get off your bike there and walk through the little Bonifacio Plaza; you’ll quickly reach Alvarado Street (Britannia Arms will be on your right). Turn left and head down Alvarado to the Monterey Hotel, which will be on your left, just before Alvarado and Franklin Streets.
    13. Residence Inn by Marriott, Salinas –15% off. Spacious suites, full kitchens, hi-speed wireless (wi-fi) Internet. Smoke-free hotel policy. Bike tips: Located near Westridge Shopping Center. Of course, to get the discount, it is not necessary to bike to your lodging destination! However, if you wish to cycle to the Residence Inn, here are two options. (1) Bike-and ride option from Oldtown Salinas: From the Oldtown Salinas MST Transit Center, you may put your bike on the MST 42, and it’s a 45-minute bus trip to get there. Enjoy this introductory view of the community! Or, (2) Bike from Oldtown Salinas: For more experienced cyclists, you may prefer to bike there as follows. As usual, when sharing the road with cars, wear high-visibility clothing and exercise extra caution. From the MST Transit Center, cross Salinas Street to the big parking lot; pass the National Steinbeck Center through an alleyway (nice wall mural of John Steinbeck!). Turn left at the alley by the parking garage, and turn right onto W. Market Street; the intersection with a traffic light is right there, and the directional sign by the traffic light states “to North Main Street.” (Note: Monterey Street becomes North Main Street at West Market; and there’s no sign indicating Monterey Street at the intersection.) You can identify the sidewalk you are to get on when you cross West Market Street and descend under the railroad bridge, because it’s elevated (a higher curb, that is). For safety, as you go under the railroad overcrossing, STAY ON THE SIDEWALK (walk your bike). Take a LEFT at the first light after the railroad overcrossing–it’s West Rossi Street–and take West Rossi for 1 to 1.5 miles to N. Davis Road, then turn RIGHT onto N. Davis. You pass through a shopping area on your right, and eventually you cross W. Laurel Street. You will see the Residence Inn by Marriott, and the Courtyard by Marriott, from there. At the next traffic signal, at the intersection of North Davis and West Laurel, Inn is on the left, across W. Laurel.
    14. Sanctuary Beach Resort, Marina – 20% off the rack rate, excluding the months of July, August, and September, in addition to the usual HER Helmet Thursdays exclusions of holidays and special event weeks. Sanctuary Beach Resort, “where nature converges with style and comfort,” offers 19 acres of pristine, secluded oceanfront tranquility. This prestigious coastal retreat provides its guests with stunning views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean. With the on-site Serenity Spa and Kula Ranch restaurant, you may never want to leave this luxurious haven of relaxation. If you’re bringing your bikes by car, the resort is only 10 minutes north of Monterey and 15 minutes north of Carmel. Take the Reservation Road exit off Highway 1, head toward the beach and turn right onto Dunes Drive. Then turn left onto the brick-paved entry of Sanctuary Beach Resort. Bike tips: If you’re cycling to the resort, it’s just off the beautiful Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail aka bike path, next to the Marina State Beach. For general inquiries and reservations, please call the hotel directly at (831) 883-9478. For group reservations, please contact Jeff Perrine by email: jperrine [ at] thesanctuarybeachresort [ dot] com; or by phone (831) 883-9478 ext.127.

  • “E” = Educational attractions and entertainment venues

    Does “E” stand for “everybody else”? Well, it may seem so! The emerging “E” category already shows the wonderful diversity of Monterey County. Not sure if your business or organization fits in? Please contact me to find out.

    Mention HER Helmet Thursdays—and show your helmet*—for a discount when you bicycle on Thursdays (or, when stated in individual listings, you have option of instead biking to purchase a ticket for a Thursday admission):
    1. Aquablue Skin & Body Spa, Salinas – 10% off spa services and treatments. Located in the heart of beautiful Oldtown Salinas. Established 2003. Offers skin care services and therapeutic and relaxing massage, including hot stone, focused tension, sports, therapeutic, and maternity–both pre- and post-natal. Bike tips: From MST Transit Center, bike east on Central Ave toward Salinas St. Turn right at Salinas, continue two blocks to West Alisal and turn left onto West Alisal (it will be your second left). Continue to Main Street. Turn left at Main; Aquablue will be on the right.
    2. CLOSED Cannery Row IMAX, Monterey
    3. Fox Theater, Salinas – 10% off admission for shows produced by the Fox. (Discounts do not apply to shows presented at the Fox by other producers.) Bike-there discount options: discount allowed if you bike there any day of the week to purchase your ticket in advance for a Thursday show; or, discount allowed if you bike to the Thursday show and (availability permitting), purchase your ticket at the door. This historic theater, opened in 1921, has been beautifully remodeled and is undergoing further renovations. With available seating for over 500, the Fox presents concerts, comedy acts, and more. Table seating at most events, with three bars available. For map, click here. Bike tips: Cyclists from the San Francisco Bay area often bring their bikes via Amtrak train. Tourists and local residents coming from the Monterey Peninsula may want to transport their bikes to Salinas on the Monterey-Salinas Transit bus, then cycle around Oldtown Salinas. Note that the Fox California Theater is close to the Monterey-Salinas Transit plaza; the MST buses carry bikes as part of their bike-and-ride program. For tips on using MST buses, start with the addendum to “Tips for Tourists Bicycling Monterey.”
    4. Jose’s Lounge Underground, Monterey – 20% – Discount applies to admission for entertainment only (alcohol excluded). 831/655-4419; 638 Wave Street. Check their Myspace site for schedule. The 20s-30s crowd already recognizes Jose’s Lounge Underground as an entertainment hotspot, often featuring three or more bands a night. Now they’re attracting what their new booking agent Gianni Greco refers to as the “experienced crowd” some nights too. (“Are you experienced?” If you immediately think of Hendrix, the answer is probably yes.) They’ve demonstrated being more musically inclusive by bringing in such bands as The Golden Hearts, from San Franciso. There’s more than one band by that name, and these Golden Hearts list their influences from Jimi Hendrix and Neil Young to the Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.  Greco says the best way to keep on top of their lineup is via their Myspace: LoungeUnderground. Bike tips: Rear of building is directly on the Cannery Row bike path, between Hoffman and Prescott Avenues. Coming from the Fisherman’s Wharf/downtown Monterey side of the bike path, pedal north (in direction of Aquarium) until you see the Bay Bikes shop on your right. Just after Bay Bikes, you’ll reach Hoffman Avenue. Cross Hoffman, and in the middle of the next block, on your left, you’ll see a reddish-colored wooden building with an upstairs deck directly on the bike path: that’s Jose’s! (There’s an entrance in back, or you may easily round the building and enter at the front. Lounge Underground is just downstairs from Jose’s Mexican Bar & Grill.)
    5. MY Museum, Monterey County Youth Museum, Monterey – 20% – Discount applies to admission. Unique in Monterey County, this 8,500 square foot museum houses seven galleries with 80 hands-on exhibits, i.e., beach, golf, farm, tree, hospital, theatre, and a very popular “creation station.” Kindly note: shoes required, and all children must be supervised by an adult (age 18 or older). Near the bike path, and close to the Monterey Sports Center (a popular shower-and-change location for cycling day visitors); near both Joselyn’s and Aquarian Bicyles too. Bike tips: From the bike path at Wharf #2/Commercial Wharf, it’s a short distance to MY Museum. However, there are some one-way streets, so you will probably want to take a short detour rather than walk your bikes to take the more direct route. Here are two options (all-cycling one first): (1) Leave bike path at Wharf #2 and walk across Del Monte Avenue onto Figueroa (you’ll see La Casa Bodega on your left at the corner). Bike up Figueroa to the next corner, which is Franklin Street (large building on right is Monterey Sports Center; on your left, you’ll see Monterey Federal Credit Union). Continue up Figueroa to Pearl Street (you’ll see Jacks Park to your right in this section). Make a right on Pearl and continue to Washington Street. Make a right on Washington (First Nat’l Bank will be on your right). Now, bike down Washington Street until you get to MY Museum, which will be on your right. Or, bike-and-walk option: (2) Leave bike path at Wharf #2 and walk across Del Monte Avenue onto Figueroa (you’ll see La Casa Bodega on your left at the corner). Bike up Figueroa to the next corner, which is Franklin Street (large building on right is Monterey Sports Center; on your left, you’ll see Monterey Federal Credit Union). Turn right and walk up the sidewalk, continue past the Monterey Sports Center. (You’ll see Joselyn’s Bicycles on your left.) Keep going to Washington Street; make a left on Washington, and MY Museum will be on your left.
    6. National Steinbeck Center, Salinas – 10% – Discount applies to admission. The National Steinbeck Center is the first of the educational attractions in the “E” category. The Steinbeck Center is located in historic Oldtown Salinas, 17 miles from the Monterey Peninsula. Bike tips: To learn more about Nobel prize-winning author John Steinbeck, cyclists from the San Francisco Bay area often bring their bikes via Amtrak train. Tourists and local residents coming from the Monterey Peninsula may want to transport their bikes to Salinas on the Monterey-Salinas Transit bus, then cycle around Oldtown Salinas. Note that the Steinbeck Center is close to the Monterey-Salinas Transit Center; the MST buses carry bikes as part of their bike-and-ride program. For tips on using MST buses, start with the addendum to “Tips for Tourists Bicycling Monterey.”
    7. The Spa at Bernardus Lodge, Carmel Valley – 15% off spa services and treatments. An added bonus: The Spa at Bernardus Lodge will give cyclists the HER Helmet Thursdays discount seven days a week! Appointments required. Property blackout dates may apply. Evidence option: bicycle pump or helmet. In the midst of the spreading oaks and sunlit vineyards of Carmel Valley lies Bernardus Lodge, and within it The Spa, which has won high praise since 2004. Here are pleasures for the senses, soothing treatments for the body, rest for the mind. Including massage from traditions in Europe and Hawaii and essential oils from the gardens, the professional skills of Bernardus staff are complemented by extraordinary natural resources. The Spa at Bernardus will delight you beyond words. See the Bernardus website for the Spa’s extensive menu of treatments, from a simple yet special shampoo to full-body massages for couples to tours in the area lasting several hours. Feather beds and warming pools hint at the pleasures that await you. Bike tips: First, when biking on Carmel Valley Road and other well-traveled roads throughout the county, remember to make use of high-visibility apparel and accessories. Second, don’t feel you have to do an all-or-nothing cycling day to enjoy The Spa at Bernardus Lodge! Consider the bike-and-ride options (see Tips for Tourists Bicycling Monterey). Take your bike on the MST bus, via hotel shuttle, or your own car’s bike rack part-way, then cycle the remaining distance. Here are three options: Option 1: Use the MST bike-and-ride option from anywhere in the county and take it to the mouth of Carmel Valley, at H’way 1 and Carmel Valley Road (get off at the Barnyard Shopping Village). Then, bike the remaining 9.5 miles to Bernardus, which will be on your left at the corner of Carmel Valley Road and Laureles Grade. Option 2: If cycling from Carmel-by-the-Sea, take the route via Rio Road, passing Carmel Mission, instead of cycling via Highway 1. When you reach Rio Road and Highway 1, cross over H’way 1 and continue to the Carmel Post Office. Make a left here, then make a right at the T-intersection. At the next T-intersection, make a left. Continue up to the light at Carmel Valley Road. Make a right. Then, continue along Carmel Valley Road for 9.5 miles to Bernardus, which will be on your left at the corner of Carmel Valley Road and Laureles Grade. Option 3: (This route is for fit cyclists, as Laureles Grade is steep.) Coming from Salinas, take Highway 68 toward Monterey / Laguna Seca. Turn left at Laureles Grade and continue for six miles. Turn left onto Carmel Valley Road and Bernardus Lodge is on the immediate left.
    8. Vista Blue Spa at the Monterey Plaza Hotel, Monterey – 20% – Discount applies to spa services and treatments with the exception of the “Spa & Stay” packages. Discount may also be applied to lunch on the spa deck, directly overlooking the bay. So, how is Vista Blue educational? Here’s my interpretation. You may learn new things about Monterey Bay wildlife or sea patterns by observing the bay from your bird’s-eye view at this rooftop spa; or, find yourself educated about better self-care while receiving relaxing, renewing spa treatments. And how is it entertaining? Enjoying a spa package together, perhaps accompanied by lunch on the spa deck, is a unique way to entertain a special friend. Bike tips: Oceanfront property, located just below Cannery Row bike path, and just north of the Coast Guard Pier and San Carlos Beach.

    “R” = Restaurants

    The “R” category list starts off with Amir’s Kabob House, a “Best of Monterey County” award winner, and the list ends with Yangtse’s Taste of Thai, another “Best of Monterey County” award winner. And what’s in between is likewise superb! Bon appetit.

     

     

    Mention HER Helmet Thursdays—and show your helmet*—when you bicycle on Thursdays to:
    1. Allegro, Carmel – 20% – Bike tips: Here are three options. (1) Use the MST bike-and-ride option, taking a bus that goes to Barnyard. Plenty of nearby shops to bike to also, in the Barnyard, Carmel Rancho, and Carmel Crossroads. Or, (2) if cycling from Carmel, the route via Rio Road, passing Carmel Mission, is recommended instead of cycling to Allegro/the Barnyard via Highway 1.  (3) For cyclists heading down the Big Sur coast via H’way 1, Allegro is a convenient stop! Located off Highway 1 at Carmel Valley Road; wear high-visibility clothing and exercise extra caution on those two roads. Look for the windmill to locate the picturesque Barnyard.  GOOD NEWS update for this neighborhood:  As of July 2010, there will soon be a new bike path (off-road) parallel to Highway 1 from Rio Road to Carmel Valley Road.
    1. The Alternative Cafe, Seaside – 15% – Some may think of The Alternative Cafe as Seaside’s slice of ultra hip Santa Cruz, and since Seaside has its own uniquely hip flavor, that doesn’t tell it all.  Come check out the art shows and events at The Alternative Cafe to discover this unique Seaside venue.  And bike there on Thursdays for a discount on your cafe purchases (food and drinks–no discounts on art sales).  Check out The Alternative Cafe website for their cafe menu, plus info on their art shows and more.  Bike tips:From the bike path at Roberts Lake, Fishwife-Seaside is only a 1.4 mile bike ride. From the bike path at Roberts Lake/Embassy Suites intersection, cross Del Monte Ave and go up Canyon Del Rey Blvd. Here are two options: (1) To go through residential neighborhoods, take Canyon Del Rey a short distance until you come to Sonoma. Make a LEFT on Sonoma, then a RIGHT onto Trinity. Continue on Trinity to Trinity Park; just after the park, you’ll come to Fremont Blvd.  The Alternative Cafe is just across the street and a little to your right. (2) Continue on Canyon Del Rey all the way to Fremont Blvd; you’ll see Walgreen’s on your left, and you’ll also spot Safeway across Fremont Blvd, on your far right. Make a left onto this busy Fremont Blvd (wear high-visibility apparel and exercise extra caution). Several blocks down, on your right-hand side, is The Alternative Cafe. Located in a friendly neighborhood where many local residents commute by bike.
    2. Amir’s Kabob House, Monterey – 15% (Alcohol excluded) – Monterey County’s only Afghani restaurant, with kabobs, traditional appetizers, soups, salads, desserts. Organically grown vegetables used whenever possible. Delicately spiced meats, rice, and vegetables. Warm hospitality permeates the exotic, simple dining room filled with soft Afghan music. Bellydancing every Saturday night. Bike tips: Located on Lighthouse Avenue, between Irvine and Prescott Streets, and parallel to the nearby Cannery Row bike path. Coming from the Pacific Grove/American Tin Cannery/Aquarium side of the bike path, pass Wave Street Studios/Quock Mui Tea Room (which is on your right). The next street is Prescott. Turn left on Prescott, and head up the short hill to Lighthouse Avenue. Turn right on Lighthouse. Amir’s will be on your right-hand side.
    3. Austino’s Patisserie, Monterey – 25% – The Shake family, highly respected restaurateurs and consistent community supporters in Monterey County, opened this fun spot across from the Monterey Bay Aquarium in 2007.  Previously Kalisa’s La Ida Cafe, the building is rich in history; read more at Austino’s website (see link).  Tantalizing choices include Old Fisherman’s Grotto clam chowder and a soup of the day; a variety of sandwiches and salads; Bud’s ice cream, and freshly made pastries.  Diverse beverages, including organic fair-trade coffee smoothies, health drinks, energy drinks, and standard favorites.  Bike tips:  Can’t get much easier than this: Austino’s is located just below the bike trail and directly across the street from the Monterey Bay Aquarium!
    4. Bahama Island Steakhouse, Carmel – 15% – Both locals and tourists love the certainty they can count on at Bahama Billy’s: flavorful island-inspired food and warm hospitality in a relaxed, elegant oasis. Crab mango bisque, Hong Kong chicken lettuce wraps, macadamia crusted halibut, and teriyaki skirt steak are among the popular menu items drawing repeat guests year after year. The service and all elements combine to make it clear that this is a fine dining experience. Check out Bahama Billy’s website for details about this unique Monterey County favorite, right in the heart of the beautiful Barnyard Shopping Village, at the mouth of Carmel Valley. Bike tips – Here are 3 cycling options: (1) Use the MST bike-and-ride option, taking a bus that goes to Barnyard. Plenty of nearby shops to bike to also, in the Barnyard, Carmel Rancho, and Carmel Crossroads. Or, (2) if cycling from Carmel, the route via Rio Road, passing Carmel Mission, is recommended instead of cycling to Bahama Billy’s/the Barnyard via Highway 1. (3) For cyclists heading down the Big Sur coast via H’way 1, Bahama Billy’s is a convenient stop! Located off Highway 1 at Carmel Valley Road; wear high-visibility clothing and exercise extra caution on those two roads. Look for the windmill to locate the picturesque Barnyard. Bahama Billy’s is on the east/Carmel Rancho Blvd side of the Barnyard, and is on the street level, so it’s easy to lock up your bicycle nearby.
    5. CLOSED Bahama Grille, Salinas
    6. Baywood Cellars Tasting Room, Monterey – 20% off wine sales. Bike tips: Located just below the Cannery Row bike path! Cycling from the Fisherman’s Wharf/Wharf I side, it’s an easy, flat 8/10 of a mile to Baywood Cellars. Leaving Fisherman’s Wharf, you’ll pass above the Coast Guard Pier, then immediately, you’ll pass above San Carlos Beach–a popular spot for divers. (You’ll be on the bike path just above the large parking lot parallel to San Carlos Beach. Below that parking lot, you’ll notice a long stretch of green lawn next to the beach, which is also where the small Divers Memorial marker is.) Stay on the bike path, continuing until you see Cannery Row Deli on your left. The street right in front of the deli is Drake Avenue. Hop off your bike there, turning right onto Drake (you might just walk the remaining distance on the sidewalk to your destination). So, from the deli at Drake, turn right, heading downhill to Cannery Row; make an immediate right onto Cannery Row. Baywood Cellars is a short distance down, on your right.
    7. Bellagio’s Pizzeria, Monterey – 25% (Alcohol excluded) –  Looking for yummy late-night food?  Bellagio’s is open late! Phone them for current hours.   Bike tips:  From Wharf #2/Commercial Wharf, it’s a short distance to Bellagio’s. However, there are some one-way streets, so you will probably want to take a brief detour rather than have to walk your bikes part-way on the more direct route. Here’s how: leave bike path at Wharf #2 and cross Del Monte Avenue. You’ll be at the corner of Del Monte and Figueroa (La Casa Bodega is at that corner). Bike up Figueroa; at the next corner, which is Franklin Street, you’ll notice large building on right (Monterey Sports Center) and, on your left, you’ll see Monterey Federal Credit Union. Continue up Figueroa to Pearl Street (you’ll see Jacks Park to your right in this section). Make a right on Pearl and continue to Tyler Street. Make a right on Tyler and continue down past Bonifacio.  Bellagio’s is on your left-hand side, just before the corner of Tyler and Del Monte.
    8. Big Sur River Inn Restaurant, Big Sur – 10% – (Alcohol excluded) – The River Inn, with a 100-year history, is a popular landmark for many reasons. Generations of locals and visitors love this place, including the regularly scheduled live music on their back deck. This full service restaurant with an emphasis on locally grown food serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktails. Another plus about River Inn: the bent willow chairs in the river, where you can cool your feet after miles of pedaling!  Bike tips:  If you’re camping or otherwise lodging in majestic Big Sur, having your bicycle along means you can take little side trips on the Old Coast Road, to Pfeiffer Beach, and elsewhere without ever getting in your car.  If you’re an avid cyclist who’s biking the Big Sur Coast sans motor vehicle, you can’t miss the River Inn:  coming from the Monterey Peninsula, it will be about 22 miles south of the new bike path parallel to Highway 1 that runs behind the Barnyard at the mouth of Carmel Valley.
    9. The Breakfast Club, Seaside – 10% – The weekend lines of smiling people sipping coffee at the door as they wait for tables tell the story best: this is a great place! Serving breakfast and lunch seven days a week in a bright and spacious room full of tables, with a small dining bar too. Friendly, cheerful, fast, and–did you guess it?–delicious! Breakfast favorites include crab cake and avocado benedict, Quintal’s omelette, corned beef hash, pancakes and waffles, and much more. For lunch, try their Malibu chicken , calamari, bacon veggie, or chicken fried steak sandwiches, or a variety of burgers–or a grilled chicken breast salad! Bike tips: Direx from the bike path at Roberts Lake and Canyon Del Rey Boulevard, Seaside (by Embassy Suites): take Canyon Del Rey all the way to Fremont. En route, you’ll pass Laguna Grande Park (on your right) and the DMV (on your left). When you reach Fremont, you’ll see Walgreen’s on your left. Turn left onto Fremont, and very soon you’ll see a little shopping center on your right. Pull on in–you’ve reached your destination. As you stand with your back toward Fremont and face the shopping center, The Breakfast Club is in the far right corner. Enjoy!
    10. Britannia Arms, Monterey – 15% (Alcohol excluded) – Bike tips: Near the bike path, Britannia Arms (known to locals as “The Brit”) is located straight up Alvarado Street from the Custom House plaza/Fisherman’s Wharf; however note the following bike tip!  At Del Monte Avenue (in front of the Portola Hotel & Spa), cyclists are directed to use Calle Principal, since Alvarado is a one-way street. No worries, it’s a wider street anyway. Bike up Calle Principal until you see Comerica Bank on your left. Get off your bike here and walk through the little Bonifacio Plaza; you’ll quickly reach Alvarado Street (Britannia Arms will be on your right).
    11. Bullwacker’s, Monterey – 15% (Alcohol excluded) – British pub with fish and chips, bangers and mash, steaks, and other tasty fare. Friendly staff. Dining rooms, bar, and fireside patio. Bullwacker’s also offers entertainment several nights a week, beginning at 8:30 pm. Check their website for entertainment schedule. Bike tips: front entrance is directly on Cannery Row and there is a back entrance just down the stairs from the Cannery Row bike path. Rear of building is directly on the Cannery Row bike path, between Hoffman and Prescott Avenues. Coming from the Fisherman’s Wharf/downtown Monterey side of the bike path, pedal north (in direction of Aquarium) until you see the Bay Bikes shop on your right. Just after Bay Bikes, you’ll reach Hoffman Avenue. Cross Hoffman, and in the middle of the next block, on your right, you’ll see old railroad cars. Bullwacker’s back entrance, with steps that go down to their back bar and patio area, is just before those railroad cars. However, cycle a little the railroad cars first, to lock up your bicycle on the bike rack that is just past the Cannery Row IMAX. Then walk the very short distance back, to use that back entrance to Bullwacker’s.
    12. CLOSED Cabo Hermosa Restaurante Salvadoreno, Seaside
    13. Cafe Fina, Monterey – 10% Fresh local seafood and homemade pastas, plus Cafe Fina’s own seasonal homegrown, organically grown vegetables!  Bike tips:  Located directly off the bike path/multi-use trail at Fisherman’s Wharf/Wharf #1, across from the Custom House Plaza. You may lock your bike on the racks at the top of the wharf; or in busy times, when racks are full, lock bikes along the iron rail at top of wharf. Then, enjoy the short walk down the wharf to Cafe Fina’s, which is on the left-hand side.
    14. Cafe La Strada, Monterey – 20% – Piazza style cafe, with artisan pastries, specialty sandwiches, desserts, gelato and more. Friendly atmosphere. Glass front makes this a fun place for people-watching, or sit at the tables on the plaza and be awed by the beauty of the Monterey Bay, the surrounding communities, and Mount Toro to the east. Bike tips: Just below Cannery Row bike path, Cafe La Strada is part of the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, which is located north of the Coast Guard Pier and San Carlos Beach. Bike rack conveniently located at Cafe La Strada’s entrance.
    15. Cafe Rustica, Carmel Valley Village – 15% – Café Rustica blends the neighborliness and caring of Carmel Valley’s ranching history with a European influenced menu and the delight of contemporary California wine country! Located in sunny Carmel Valley, Café Rustica offers outdoor and indoor dining. All elements combine to make this a favorite restaurant for Carmel Valley residents, Monterey County gourmands, and savvy travelers from all over. Fresh local produce is a staple of the kitchen and is especially reflected in the salads, soups, and thin-crusted wood-fired gourmet pizzas—a house specialty—as well as in exceptional sides, i.e., mashed sweet potatoes. In addition to these, the lunch menu offers a diverse selection of sandwiches. Dinner entrees include sausage, steak, chicken, pork, salmon, lamb, and more, including a special fresh fish daily! Bike tips: First, when biking on Carmel Valley Road and other well-traveled roads throughout the county, remember to make use of high-visibility apparel and accessories. Second, don’t feel you have to do an all-or-nothing cycling day to enjoy Café Rustica! Consider the bike-and-ride options (see Tips for Tourists Bicycling Monterey). Take your bike on the MST bus, via hotel shuttle, or your own car’s bike rack part-way, then cycle the remaining distance. Here are three options. Option 1: Use the MST bike-and-ride option from anywhere in the county and take it to the mouth of Carmel Valley, at H’way 1 and Carmel Valley Road (get off at the Barnyard Shopping Village). Then, bike the remaining 11.5 miles to Café Rustica. Two miles after Laureles Grade you’ll be in Carmel Valley Village, where you’ll turn left on Pilot Road; Café Rustica will be on your right. Option 2: If cycling from Carmel-by-the-Sea, take the route via Rio Road, passing Carmel Mission, instead of cycling via Highway 1. When you reach Rio Road and Highway 1, cross over H’way 1 and continue to the Carmel Post Office. Make a left here, then make a right at the T-intersection. At the next T-intersection, make a left. Continue up to the light at Carmel Valley Road. Make a right. Then, continue along Carmel Valley Road for 11.5 miles to Carmel Valley Village; make a left on Pilot Road, and Café Rustica will be on your right. Option 3: (This route is for the most fit cyclists, as Laureles Grade is steep.) Coming from Salinas, take Highway 68 toward Monterey / Laguna Seca. Turn left at Laureles Grade and continue for six miles. Turn left onto Carmel Valley Road and continue another two miles to Carmel Valley Village. Make a left on Pilot Road, and Café Rustica is up ahead on your right.
    16. CLOSED Cannery Row Pizzeria, Monterey
    17. Cantinetta Luca, Carmel – 15% –Bike tips: One idea for lunchtime (dinner served too) is to park your car at Carmel Beach, or perhaps the Carmel Mission, then take a nice bike ride up the hill to get a fresh-air workout before lunch at Cantinetta Luca.   Biking is a great solution to avoiding parking problems in Carmel. After lunch, bike around and enjoy the shops and galleries. Then reward yourself with that downhill ride and stretch out on the beach for an afternoon nap, or enjoy meditating in the courtyard at the Mission. What a lovely way to spend some time in Carmel.   Cantinetta Luca is on Dolores Avenue, between Ocean and Seventh.  Another option: coming from elsewhere in the county? Use the MST bike-and-ride option to buses that go to Carmel Plaza. Then hop on your bike to go to the very nearby Cantinetta Luca and other Carmel attractions.
    18. Carmel Belle, Carmel – 10% – Cozy friendly environment for breakfast and lunch, featuring California’s artisanal cheese, charcuterie, and wine producers. Acclaimed by Monterey County Herald GO! food critic Melissa Snyder for “simple, top-shelf ingredients,” and a “perfectly poached egg.” You can almost smell Belle’s organically grown grains cooking in the morning, or taste their soups at lunchtime if you follow them on Twitter! http://www.Twitter.com/carmelbelle Bike tips: Take a lovely early-morning bike ride while Carmel’s streets are quiet, to enjoy a yummy, hot breakfast, or bike here for lunch and avoid parking problems. Coming from elsewhere in the county? Use the MST bike-and-ride option to buses that go to Carmel Plaza. Then hop on your bike to go to the very closeby Carmel Belle and other Carmel attractions.
    19. CLOSED Carmel Tagine Moroccan Cuisine –
    20. Central Texan BBQ, Castroville – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – Family owned and operated, grounded in the solid agricultural community of Castroville, yet clearly with a heart for Texas! A meat-lover’s delight that is popular with locals throughout the county, the brisket of beef and smoked turkey are especially acclaimed. Bike tips: Coming from the Monterey Peninsula, cycle the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail bike path through Marina, and continuing on where it will merge with Del Monte Boulevard. Follow Del Monte Blvd until—just before H’way 1—Del Monte Blvd reaches Del Monte Road. Turn right onto Del Monte Road. Follow it until it T-s into Nashua Road. Take a left onto Nashua; approx 500 ft from there, the bike path resumes on the right-hand side. Watch for the green “bike route” signs. Follow bike path into Castroville. Make a left turn onto Merritt Road/Highway 183. Continue approximately 1.5 miles, then Central Texan will be on your left.
    21. China Garden, Pacific Grove – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – Mandarin, Hunan, and Szechuan family dinners and individual dinners.  Lunch specials and dinners, meat, seafood, vegetarian. Bike tips:  Located on Central Ave, Pacific Grove (Lighthouse Ave, Monterey becomes Central Ave, PG), parallel to the multi-use/bike path, just above the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
    22. Cozumel, Salinas – 10% (Alcohol excluded) Friendly, family-run restaurant with traditional menu. Their steak taco salad, chile rellenos, and chile Colorado are especially recommended. Their chips and salsa, made fresh daily, are acclaimed as some of the best in town! Bike tips: Cozumel is in the Alvin Shopping Center at 1447 N. Main Street; located approximately 3 to 3.5 miles from MST Transit Center in Oldtown Salinas. One option – “bike and ride”: Leaving Oldtown onto N. Main can be dicey for a cyclist, so the recommendation is to transfer at the transit center to MST bus 29 or 49; both go up N. Main Street, and you (and your bike) will get off at Alvin St. After enjoying your meal at Cozumel’s, and having seen the route, you may want to bike back to Oldtown. If so, you basically reverse the following “bike from Oldtown Salinas” route. Second option: bike all the way from Oldtown Salinas: For more experienced cyclists, you may prefer to bike there as follows. As usual, when sharing the road with cars, wear high-visibility clothing and exercise extra caution. From the MST Transit Center, cross Salinas Street to the big parking lot; pass the National Steinbeck Center through an alleyway (nice wall mural of John Steinbeck!). Turn left at the alley by the parking garage, and turn right onto W. Market Street; the intersection with a traffic light is right there, and the directional sign by the traffic light states “to North Main Street.” (Note: Monterey Street becomes North Main Street at West Market; and there’s no sign indicating Monterey Street at the intersection.) You can identify the sidewalk you are to get on when you cross West Market Street and descend under the railroad bridge, because it’s elevated (a higher curb, that is). For safety, as you go under the railroad overcrossing, STAY ON THE SIDEWALK (walk your bike). Continue on North Main Street all the way to Cozumel, which will take most cyclists about 15-20 minutes.
    23. Curly’s Barbecue, Seaside – 10% – 1107 Fremont St; 831/ 394-7274 – Juicy, mouth-watering, oak-smoked barbecue. Oak rotisserie chicken, smoked pork spare ribs, barbecued chopped pork, lean, juicy, tender tri-tip; plus, all the homemade sides you can think of! Half rack of ribs, pork sandwiches, potato salad, barbecue beans, and sweet potato pie are among the favorites at this smoking-good place. Bike tips. Direx from the bike path at Roberts Lake and Canyon Del Rey Boulevard, Seaside (by Embassy Suites): take Canyon Del Rey all the way to Fremont Ave. En route, you’ll pass Laguna Grande Park (on your right) and the DMV (on your left). Continue to the light at Fremont Ave; you’ll see Walgreen’s on your left (and Safeway across the street on your right). Now, there are two options, to walk or to cycle the remainder. (1) Walk: avoid crossing busy Fremont via bicycle. Instead, make a left onto the sidewalk alongside the Walgreen’s; then walk your bike that last tiny bit on the sidewalk. Curly’s is right next door to Walgreen’s. Or, (2) Cycle: make a left onto Fremont. Continue to Kimball (which is the first right-hand street); just a tad past that is Charles Street, an easy-to-overlook little street on your left. Maneuver over there safely. That’s it! You’ve arrived at Curly’s, which is nestled in between the Walgreen’s and the Monterey County Weekly offices. There are picture windows on all sides, which makes Curly’s an especially fun place to observe the hustle of community life in this thriving neighborhood.
    24. Domenico’s On the Wharf, Monterey – 10% – Fresh seafood and Italian cuisine.  Bike tips:  Located directly off the bike path/multi-use trail at Fisherman’s Wharf/Wharf #1, across from the Custom House Plaza. You may lock your bike on the racks at the top of the wharf; or in busy times, when racks are full, lock bikes along the iron rail at top of wharf. Then, enjoy the short walk down the wharf to Domenico’s, which is on the right-hand side.
    25. CLOSED – The Duck Club Grill, Monterey
    26. East Village Coffee Lounge, Monterey – 20% – Enjoy organic coffee, as well as pastries, small bites, European beers, and local wine in the comfortable, stylish interior of this historic building. Or, have food and non-alcoholic beverages outdoors on their popular little plaza. East Village also serves as an entertainment venue and a host for community events. Check their website for schedule. Bike tips: Located just three blocks from the bike path and one short block from the MST plaza (bike-and-ride option). Directions tip: Munras becomes Abrego at Eldorado; and Abrego becomes Washington at Pearl. If you’re confused about our streets, it’s not you, it’s Old Monterey! Direx are very easy coming from the bike path at Wharf #2: Leave the bike path and go directly across Del Monte Avenue from Wharf #2; you’ll now be on Figueroa (you’ll see La Casa Bodega at the corner). Continue on Figueroa to Pearl, which is just after Jacks Park (you’ll see the back side of the park on your right-hand side as you cycle). Turn right on Pearl. You’ll come to a stop sign at the corner of Pearl and Washington, with First Nat’l Bank on your right-hand side. Cross the street, and East Village is immediately on your right. It’s on the little triangle plaza, where there’s often a game of hacky-sack going or cyclists lounging on the plaza. Aquarian Bicycles is there on the plaza too!
    27. El Mariachi Restaurante, Monterey – 20% (Alcohol excluded). Additional special discount for cyclists on Thursdays: $2 off alcoholic drinks at El Mariachi. – 100% Blue Agave tequilas, delicious tableside guacamole prepared fresh to order, and authentic regional Mexican cuisine. Light-hearted atmosphere in a bustling section of Cannery Row, with three regularly scheduled live music and dancing venues (and much more) nearby for extending the good times after dinner. Bike tips: located directly on the Cannery Row bike path. Coming from the Fisherman’s Wharf/Wharf #1 side, El Mariachi is just after the Cannery Row IMAX, which is on your left; cross the next street, which is Prescott, then El Mariachi’s is immediately on your right. It’s upstairs in the large red building.
    28. El Palomar, Monterey – 20% – Rudy and Kathy Torres have made El Palomar a well-established locals’ favorite. The restaurant is a large, spacious place with an upper-level bar and dining balcony, main floor, and outdoor patio seating with fire pit. A lively cantina and regularly scheduled live mariachi, tango dancing, and more make this place especially fun. And the authentic Mexican cuisine, including house favorites for everyone–children and adults, meat-lovers, vegetarians, and seafood lovers, are, of course, the greatest crowd-pleaser. Special Sunday breakfast menu, plus lunch and dinners all week. Bike tips: located about four blocks from the bike path in downtown Monterey, in the Cypress Plaza, across from the historic Casa Munras hotel, about a block and a half from the MST plaza (bike-and-ride option). Direx tip: From bike path at Wharf #2, cross Del Monte Avenue and take Figueroa (you’ll see La Casa Bodega on the corner) and continue up Figueroa until it deads end; that is Church Street. Make a right on Church and go another block to Abrego. Make a left on Abrego. Go straight up Abrego, you’ll cross Fremont (there’s a traffic signal there), and immediately after the gas station, on your right-hand side, is the Cypress Plaza. Turn right into the plaza. El Palomar is the second place from the end. Direx note: Munras becomes Abrego at Eldorado; and Abrego becomes Washington at Pearl. If you’re confused about our streets, it’s not you, it’s Old Monterey!
    29. El Torito, Monterey – 20% (Alcohol excluded) – Authentic Mexican food prepared with the best ingredients, such as guacamole made with only Haas avocados, salsas made fresh throughout the day, and handmade tamales prepared in the traditional manner, then wrapped in cornhusks for flavor and moisture retention. Several large dining rooms and a festive bar—including many window tables on the bay, where you can watch the waves and marine life. Bike tips: just off the Cannery Row bike path, and two blocks from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Coming from the Fisherman’s Wharf/downtown Monterey side of the bike path, pedal north (in direction of Aquarium) until you see the Bay Bikes shop on your right. Just after Bay Bikes, you’ll reach Hoffman Avenue. Turn right onto Hoffman Avenue (if traveling with children, perhaps walk this last stretch). At the bottom of the very short hill, you’ll cross Cannery Row Avenue. Immediately on your right is the large El Torito parking lot, with the restaurant situated beside the bay.
    30. Elli’s Great American Restaurant, Salinas – 10% – Good-times, friendly vibe with a widely diverse menu. Elli’s cuisine represents the melting pot of American culinary tastes, including Italian, Cal-Mex, Cajun, All-American, and much more. Your only problem will be deciding what to order–so many yummy choices! Spacious dining rooms, casual atmosphere. Very family friendly, yet a fun, relaxed place for a date too. Bike tips: traveling directly down Main Street, it’s a mile and a half bike ride from the National Steinbeck Center in Oldtown Salinas. Don’t like to cycle on Main? Alternate route provided! From the MST Transit Plaza, take Gabilan Street past First Awakenings, past Monterey Street (one-way street, traffic light). Turn RIGHT at next intersection, which is Pajaro Street. You can take it all the way to San Joaquin Street (1.5 to 2 miles). Turn RIGHT and go one block to S. Main Street. Make a LEFT turn and continue to Elli’s, which will be on your right. Note: this route is a little longer than just going through Oldtown via Salinas St. and getting onto S. Main Street, but it’s safer and quieter, more residential. So again, the recommended route is to avoid biking on South Main Street and use Pajaro Street instead. (Pajaro is one block east of S. Main St, runs parallel to it. Pajaro is less crowded with cars and has better bike lanes most of the way.) If, however, you choose to travel on Main Street, wear high-visibility clothing and exercise extra caution to enjoy this busy avenue, where you’ll pass through a stretch of local shops and bustling shopping centers coming from Steinbeck Center. Also note: cyclists from the San Francisco Bay area can bring their bikes to Oldtown Salinas via Amtrak train. Tourists and local residents coming from the Monterey Peninsula may want to transport their bikes to Salinas on the Monterey-Salinas Transit bus, then cycle in Salinas. Elli’s is about 1.5 miles from the Monterey-Salinas Transit plaza; the MST buses carry bikes as part of their bike-and-ride program. For tips on using MST buses, start with the addendum to “Tips for Tourists Bicycling Monterey.”
    31. Em Le’s, Carmel – 10% (Alcohol excluded) A Carmel-by-the-Sea landmark, established in 1955. Em Le’s is the second oldest restaurant in the village of Carmel and is known as the “Jewel of Carmel.” Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Long popular with locals as a favorite breakfast spot. Bike tips: Take a charming early-morning bike ride while Carmel’s streets are quiet to enjoy Em Le’s for breakfast! Or bike here for lunch to avoid parking problems, or for dinner to enjoy the special treat of biking Carmel by evening; for when darkness falls, there are no traffic signals or street lights. (Be sure to use bike lights, reflective clothing, etc. as appropriate.)  Coming from elsewhere in the county? Use the MST bike-and-ride option to buses that go to Carmel Plaza. Then hop on your bike and head down Ocean Avenue (west, toward the Ocean)until you reach Dolores; make a right on Dolores. Em Le’s will be on your right.
    32. Epsilon – Fine Greek Restaurant, Monterey – 15% – Bike tips: From Wharf #2/Commercial Wharf, it’s a short distance to Epsilon. However, there are some one-way streets, so you will probably want to take a brief detour rather than have to walk your bikes part-way on the more direct route. Here’s how: leave bike path at Wharf #2 and cross Del Monte Avenue. You’ll be at the corner of Del Monte and Figueroa (La Casa Bodega is at that corner). Bike up Figueroa; at the next corner, which is Franklin Street, you’ll notice large building on right (Monterey Sports Center) and, on your left, you’ll see Monterey Federal Credit Union. Continue up Figueroa to Pearl Street (you’ll see Jacks Park to your right in this section). Make a right on Pearl and continue to Tyler Street. Make a right on Tyler and continue down to Bonifacio. Epsilon is on your left-hand side, just after the intersection of Tyler & Bonifacio.
    33. Erik’s DeliCafe, Monterey – 10% – Family recipes, fresh ingredients, and fast, friendly service have earned this 27-location company a reputation for soups, salads, and bakery goods made from scratch, and popular “sandwiches with character” since 1973. Erik’s DeliCafe website posts nutritional info for their menu items too! Bike tips: Located in the heart of Old Monterey in the Uptown Monterey shopping center, across from the Monterey MST Transit Center. Short ride from the coastal bike path as follows: from Wharf #2, cross Del Monte Avenue and go straight up Figueroa (you’ll see La Casa Bodega on your left at the corner of Del Monte & Figueroa). Continue on Figueroa all the way to Pearl, which is just after Jacks Park (you’ll see the back side of the park on your right-hand side as you cycle). Turn RIGHT on Pearl. After the stop sign where First Nat’l Bank is on your right, you’ll also see East Village Coffee Lounge on your right. Continue up Pearl until you come to Tyler. You’ll see Higgins Windows on your left-hand side. At that corner, turn LEFT on Tyler; you’ll now be alongside the MST Transit Center (it’s on your right), and, continuing straight, you’ll come to a T-intersection that faces Peet’s Coffee. That’s the Uptown Monterey shopping center. Make a left, and Erik’s is immediately on your right-hand side, directly on Munras Avenue. Erik's, Monterey - HER Helmet Thursdays participant
    34. Erik’s DeliCafe, Seaside- 10% – Family recipes, fresh ingredients, and fast, friendly service have earned this 27-location company a reputation for soups, salads, and bakery goods made from scratch, and popular “sandwiches with character” since 1973. Erik’s DeliCafe website posts nutritional info for their menu items too! Bike tips: Brand-new Erik’s, the first in Seaside, is in the new City Center shopping center. Located on Broadway Avenue, just before Fremont Blvd if coming from the coastal bike path side. Direx from the coastal bike path at Roberts Lake/Embassy Suites (the Canyon Del Rey and Del Monte Avenue intersection): Option #1 : head north on Del Monte Avenue (heading up Del Monte in the direction of Starbucks, which will be on your left). You’ll soon pass Sports Center Bicycles on your right. Continue up Del Monte until you get to Broadway. Make a right on Broadway and continue all the way to Erik’s, which is on your right-hand side, just before the traffic signal at Fremont Blvd. Option #2: From Robert’s Lake at Canyon Del Rey, if you’re comfortable being adventurous, you may cross Canyon Del Rey and cut through where the old railroad tracks used to be, then come out at Contra Costa. (Ask a local in the vicinity, as this isn’t clear on TAMC map.) At Contra Costa, turn right, then left onto Broadway. Then continue all the way to Erik’s, which is on your right-hand side, just before the traffic signal at Fremont Blvd.
    35. New participant! Additional details forthcoming. Favaloro’s Big Night Bistro, Pacific Grove – 10%
    36. First Awakenings, Pacific Grove – 10% – Celebrated since 1993 for a diverse menu of specialty egg dishes, crepes, pancakes, sandwiches, salads, beef, and more. First Awakenings has a huge following among the locals, fans of their Blue (or Banana) Germ pancakes, Joaquin Yahoos, and much more—a menu shared with their Salinas sister location. Here, Monterey Bay Aquarium visitors are delighted to discover this neighboring dining spot, with indoor dining rooms and outdoor patio seating. There’s even a “Healthy Department” menu section especially suited to those bike cruisers who have no plans to burn calories on any uphill rides! Bike tips: Located just across the street from the coastal bike path, a very short distance west of the Monterey Bay Aquarium. First Awakenings is located in the American Tin Cannery building. To quickly recognize First Awakenings, see their website photo showing umbrella tables on the patio, which is just below the street-level sidewalk.
    37. First Awakenings, Salinas – 10% Salinas immediately welcomed this added location for a peninsula favorite, and their Oldtown address, just upstreet from the National Steinbeck Center, made them equally a hit in the county seat, too. They share the same menu as their Pacific Grove sister, including Heartland Frittata, Biscuits and Country Gravy, Buenos Dias Tortillas, Hawaiian Crepes, and Banana (or Blue) Germ Pancakes, fresh squeezed juices, and much more. Their Asian Harvest, Sizzling Oriental, and Tuscan Chicken salads; Del Carnita, Beef Memories, and Easy Rider sandwiches; Portofino Pesto, Greek Fetish, and Acapulco Express all point to one of the reasons First Awakenings is so popular throughout the county: diversity! Bike tips. Check their website to see picture of the distinctive rounded-corner building you’ll be looking for. One option from MST Transit Center in Oldtown Salinas is to turn left on Gabilan Street and go one block east. Or, another option is to cut through the big parking lot across Salinas Street to get to S. Main Street. First Awakenings is on the corner of Main and Gabilan.
    38. Fishwife at Asilomar, Pacific Grove – 15% (Alcohol excluded) – Award-winning California cuisine with a Caribbean accent, featuring pasta and fresh, sustainable seafood. Daily specials, freshest Salinas Valley produce, housemade desserts. Friendly, casual atmosphere. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Great food at reasonable prices. Bike tips: Directly on the bike lane near Asilomar State Beach, just before Pacific Grove gate to 17-Mile Drive. Near the Asilomar Conference Grounds. The following direx are excerpted from “Tips for Tourists Bicycling Monterey.”“One of the many virtually flat rides with beautiful ocean views goes from the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Monterey to Point Joe, Pebble Beach (and further south). There’s a brief, very gentle uphill stretch after Asilomar State Beach. (1) Start at the Aquarium and bike to Lover’s Point (this stretch is all off-road bike path, and it even has separate lanes for pedestrians and cyclists). (2) Then, from Lover’s Point to Asilomar Avenue, you share the road with cars, and this is a signed bike route only (there is no marked bike lane). (3) After Asilomar Avenue, a bike lane is re-established (still shares the road with cars); the bike lane continues…”all the way to the Fishwife!
    39. Fishwife, Seaside – 15% (Alcohol excluded) – Award-winning California cuisine with a Caribbean accent, featuring pasta and fresh, sustainable seafood. Daily specials, freshest Salinas Valley produce, housemade desserts. Friendly, casual atmosphere. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Great food at reasonable prices. Bike tips: From the bike path at Roberts Lake, Fishwife-Seaside is only a 1.4 mile bike ride. From the bike path at Roberts Lake/Embassy Suites intersection, cross Del Monte Ave and go up Canyon Del Rey Blvd. Here are two options: (1) To go through residential neighborhoods, take Canyon Del Rey a short distance until you come to Sonoma. Make a LEFT on Sonoma, then a RIGHT onto Trinity. Continue on Trinity to Trinity Park; just after the park, Fishwife will be on your left. Or, (2) Continue on Canyon Del Rey all the way to Fremont Blvd; you’ll see Walgreen’s on your left, and you’ll also spot Safeway across Fremont Blvd, on your far right. Make a left onto this busy Fremont Blvd (wear high-visibility apparel and exercise extra caution). Several blocks down, on your left-hand side, you’ll see the sign for Turtle Bay and Fishwife on your left, at the corner of Fremont and Trinity (turn LEFT onto Trinity). Located in a friendly neighborhood where many local residents commute by bike.
    40. Forge in the Forest, Carmel – 10% Bike tips: One idea for lunchtime (dinner served too) is to park your car at Carmel Beach, or perhaps the Carmel Mission, then take a nice bike ride up the hill to get a fresh-air workout before lunch at the Forge!  Biking is a great solution to avoiding parking problems in Carmel. After lunch, bike around and enjoy the shops and galleries. Then reward yourself with that downhill ride and stretch out on the beach for an afternoon nap, or enjoy meditating in the courtyard at the Mission.  What a lovely way to spend some time in Carmel. Forge in the Forest  is on the corner of Fifth and Junipero.  Another option: coming from elsewhere in the county? Use the MST bike-and-ride option to buses that go to Carmel Plaza. Then hop on your bike to go to the very nearby Forge in the Forest and other Carmel attractions.
    41. Gilbert’s Red Snapper/ Seafood Grill, Monterey – 10% – Waterfront dining on historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf. Complete range of fresh seafood. Unhurried, relaxing, friendly atmosphere, and sensible prices. Bike tips: Located directly off the bike path at Fisherman’s Wharf, across from the Custom House Plaza. You may lock your bike on the racks at the top of the wharf; or in very busy times, when racks are full, lock bikes along the iron rail at top of wharf. Then, take the very short walk down the wharf to Gilbert’s, which will be on your right-hand side.
    42. Gino’s, Salinas – 10%(Alcohol excluded) – Owned and operated by Bozzo family of southern Italy, Cosenza, the menu reflects their specialty of all kinds of pasta dishes, with sauces made fresh daily. Highly renowned locally, since their Salinas opening in 1975, Gino’s serves authentic Italian dishes with only fresh ingredients. Menu includes also acclaimed seafood, chicken, steaks, pizza, salads, appetizers, desserts, and more. Full bar; over 100 wines, from the best of California to around the world. Lunch and dinner, kids menu too. Dining options include fireplace dining room, covered courtyard, covered patio, outdoor patio. Bike tips: [Disregard Google’s direx–way wrong!–trust Bicycling Monterey’s instead!] Via Main Street, located 1.7 miles bike ride from the National Steinbeck Center. Rather than cycle down Main, many cyclists prefer this alternate route. Direx are provided beginning from the MST Transit Plaza in Oldtown Salinas: take Gabilan Street past First Awakenings, past Monterey Street (one-way street, traffic light). Turn RIGHT at next intersection, which is Pajaro Street. You can take it all the way to San Joaquin Street (1.5 to 2 miles). Turn RIGHT and go one block to S. Main Street. Make a LEFT turn and continue past Elli’s, which will be on your right. As you continue on S. Main Street, you’ll cross Blanco Road at the traffic light; look for Gino’s on the right side (2/10 mile past Elli’s). Note: this route is a little longer than just going through Oldtown via Salinas St. and getting onto S. Main Street, but it’s safer and quieter, more residential. So again, the recommended route is to avoid biking on South Main Street and use Pajaro Street instead. (Pajaro is one block east of S. Main St, runs parallel to it. Pajaro is less crowded with cars and has better bike lanes most of the way.) If, however, you choose to travel on Main Street, wear high-visibility clothing and exercise extra caution to enjoy this busy avenue, where you’ll pass through a stretch of local shops and bustling shopping centers coming from Steinbeck Center. Also note: cyclists from the San Francisco Bay area can bring their bikes to Oldtown Salinas via Amtrak train. Tourists and local residents coming from the Monterey Peninsula may want to transport their bikes to Salinas on the Monterey-Salinas Transit bus, then cycle in Salinas. Gino’s is approximately two miles from the Monterey-Salinas Transit plaza; the MST buses carry bikes as part of their bike-and-ride program. For tips on using MST buses, start with the addendum to “Tips for Tourists Bicycling Monterey.”
    43. Golden Fish, Salinas – 15% – Cream of lobster bisque on Thursdays! All week long, serve classic seafood entrees, including grilled Cajun tilapia, grilled oysters, sauteed calamari steak almondine, prawns Cleopatra. Meat entrees, pastas, fisherman’s bowls, garden salads, tostadas, wraps, sandwiches, fish and chips, appetizers, soups, and a kids’ menu–truly something for everyone! Top it off with key lime pie, mango cheesecake, flan, or a chocolate torte. Bike tips. One option from MST Transit Center is to cut through the big parking lot across Salinas Street to get to Main Street. Walk your bike up to Golden Fish, which will be on you left. Another option from MST Transit Center is to bike this route: bike east on Central Ave toward Salinas St. Turn right at Salinas, continue two blocks to West Alisal and turn left onto West Alisal. (it will be your second left). Continue to Main St. Turn left at Main; it will be on your right-hand side, set back from the street a bit.
    44. Great Wall Chinese, Monterey – 10% Traditional Szechuan and Mandarin cuisine. Family dinners, combination dinners, a la carte items. Family owned and operated. Friendly, caring service, a business lunch, vegetarian plates, and more have made this a longtime locals’ favorite. And for visitors, the location is ideal for people just coming into Monterey and learning their way around town. Bike tips: located about four blocks from the bike path in downtown Monterey, across from the historic Casa Munras hotel, about a block and a half from the MST plaza (bike-and-ride option). Direx tip: From Wharf #2, cross Del Monte Avenue and take Figueroa (you’ll see La Casa Bodega on the corner) and continue up Figueroa until it deads end; that is Church Street. Make a right on Church and go another block to Abrego. Make a left on Abrego. Go straight up Abrego, you’ll cross Fremont (there’s a traffic signal there), and immediately after the gas station, on your right-hand side, is the Great Wall. Munras becomes Abrego at Eldorado; and Abrego becomes Washington at Pearl. If you’re confused about our streets, it’s not you, it’s Old Monterey!
    45. CLOSED – Grill at Ryan Ranch, Monterey
    46. Habanero’s Grill and Cantina, Monterey – 25% (Alcohol excluded) –  Bike tips:  From Wharf #2/Commercial Wharf, it’s a short distance to Habanero’s. However, there are some one-way streets, so you will probably want to take a brief detour rather than have to walk your bikes part-way on the more direct route. Here’s how: leave bike path at Wharf #2 and cross Del Monte Avenue. You’ll be at the corner of Del Monte and Figueroa (La Casa Bodega is at that corner). Bike up Figueroa; at the next corner, which is Franklin Street, you’ll notice large building on right (Monterey Sports Center) and, on your left, you’ll see Monterey Federal Credit Union. Continue up Figueroa to Pearl Street (you’ll see Jacks Park to your right in this section). Make a right on Pearl and continue to Tyler Street. Make a right on Tyler and continue down past Bonifacio.  Habanero’s is on your left, directly on the corner of Tyler and Del Monte.
    47. Happy Dragon, Monterey – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine, with traditional favorites served 7 days a week. Friendly service in a casual dining environment. Bike tips: Coming from Wharf #2 or Naval Postgraduate School cycle north along the bike path heading, parallel to Del Monte Ave, and heading in the direction of Embassy Suites (tall hotel), altho you won’t go that far. You will pass the roller skating arena; and later, at Del Monte Ave & Casa Verde Street, you’ll see Monterey Fish House on your right (there’s a light at Casa Verde). Exit the bike path here, crossing the street at Del Monte Avenue and Casa Verde. Continue up Casa Verde about .4 mile until you reach Fremont Ave. There will be a gas station on your right, and you’ll see the Monterey Fairgrounds marquee straight ahead in the distance. But don’t go straight on to the fairgrounds! Instead, turn left onto Fremont Ave (exercise extra caution on this busy street). Continue on Fremont about .5 mile to Hannon. Make a u-turn at Hannon and head back along Fremont; in approximately 300 feet, Happy Dragon will be in a small shopping plaza on your right.
    48. Haute Enchilada Café & Gallery, Moss Landing – 10% -Haute Enchilada may be the only place in Monterey County where you can get a delicious tofu scramble, the breakfast dish more commonly found in metropolitan areas. The café’s fish tacos and eggplant Moroccan salad are also very popular. The warm, friendly service and exotic décor—inside and out—make this an especially fun, and delicious, cycling stop. Dine indoors, or outside in their warmed courtyard. And don’t miss the eclectic gallery! Sunset magazine says, “Nowhere is the cadence of seaside life more fully celebrated” than in Moss Landing. And the choice of the Haute Enchilada for a meeting place when the imagineers of Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey counties gather for their Imagination Coast breakfasts is another affirmation of not only this community but of this unique café. Bike tips: Provided below is (1) a bike-there route, with two options (1a, 1b) once you reach Castroville. Also provided is (2) a bike-and-bus combo route. (1) Bike there! Cyclists coming NORTH from the Monterey Peninsula, cycle the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail bike path through Marina, and continuing on where it will merge with Del Monte Boulevard. Follow Del Monte Blvd until—just before H’way 1—Del Monte Blvd reaches Del Monte Road. Turn right onto Del Monte Road. Follow it until it T-s into Nashua Road. Take a left onto Nashua; approx 500 ft from there, the bike path resumes on the right-hand side. Watch for the green “bike route” signs. Follow bike path into Castroville. Then choose either option 1a or 1b. (1a) Make a left turn onto Merritt Road/Highway 183 to get to Cabrillo Highway 1. Take a right onto H’way 1 (which has heavy traffic, though a wide shoulder; wear hi-visibility clothing and exercise extra caution; you’ll likely be against wind). Follow H’way 1 approx 2.5 miles to Whole Enchilada, then make a left just after Whole Enchilada and another left to Haute Enchilada, which will be on your right a little way down the street. -or- (1b) To avoid H’way 1, when you reach Merritt Road/H’way 183 in Castroville, take a left and then an immediate right onto Highway 156 East for about a half-mile (busy h’way, but good shoulder; exercise caution). Then take a left onto Castroville Blvd, which will take you past North County High. Look for the bike path on right-hand side of Castroville Blvd. When you come to T-intersection, make a left onto Dolan Road. When you come to next T-intersection, you’ll be at H’way 1 by the Moss Landing power plant. From there, turn left onto H’way 1 . (Note: at the power plant, you have to cross H’way 1 to make that left turn, which can be daunting. If you want to walk you bike on the northbound side of Hwy 1 a ways, you can cross more safely where the road has some divider lines between the northbound and southbound lanes.) Once you’re on H’way 1, go south about a half-mile or so. Turn right just before Whole Enchilada and then make a left to reach Haute Enchilada, which will be on your right a little way down the street. (2) Bike-bus combo! Travelers coming NORTH from the Monterey Peninsula may want to combine a bus trip with cycling. If so, take the MST 27 from Marina Transit Station, leaves Northbound to Watsonville at 9:18, 11:18 and 1:18 [at time of this posting; confirm schedule before planning trip]. The bus passes closeby and directly parallel to the restaurant; get off bus on Highway 1 at Dolan Road. For return trip, to get in a long bike ride on the return (since it is easier to bike SOUTH rather than NORTH on Highway 1, because of the afternoon winds), leave Moss Landing on Highway 1 going south. (There’s a good shoulder there, just check your rear-view mirror for cars; you do have a rear-view bike mirror, don’t you?!) Turn RIGHT onto Molera Road (by the fruit stand). From there it is 2.5 miles, with little or no traffic, on a paved road that passes through artichoke fields. It then goes OVER Highway 1 and joins Nashua Road. You’ll pass another fruit stand and turn RIGHT onto Monte Road (little or no shoulder, not too much traffic; DO watch out for trucks!). Continue on that road for two miles; then it links up with the separate bike lane that parallels Del Monte Avenue. This trip may be comfortably made from Moss Landing to downtown Monterey in 2 to 2.5 hours, though could be completed more quickly by expert cyclists.
    49. Henry’s BBQ, Monterey – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – Henry’s BBQ offers many choices of BBQ (pork ribs, pork loin, tri-tip, chicken), Hawaiian-style pulled-pork, burgers, sandwiches, chicken, pasta, and fish dishes in a comfortable, friendly atmosphere. Offer take-out and catering too. Both indoor and outdoor dining, including a pet-friendly patio. Bike Tips: located on Lighthouse Ave at Drake Ave in New Monterey, parallel to the nearby Cannery Row bike path. Coming from the Fisherman’s Wharf/Wharf #1 side, make a left on Drake and continue up to Lighthouse. You’ll see Henry’s across Lighthouse Ave, on the right-hand corner.
    50. CLOSED – Hola by the Sea, Carmel
    51. Hula’s Island Grill and Tiki Room, Monterey – 15% (Alcohol excluded) – Family owned and operated locals’ favorite. Wildly varied and incredibly delicious menu of fresh fish, seafood, steaks, and vegetarian delights, with influences from Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, and, of course, Hawaii! Full bar, including tiki cocktails. A comfy and fun dining experience in a warm, laid-back Hawaiian setting with top-notch professional service. On Fridays only, a luau lunch is served. Dinner served nightly, seven days a week. Bike tips: located on Lighthouse Avenue, between Hoffman and Prescott. Coming from the Fisherman’s Wharf/downtown Monterey side of the bike path, pedal north (in direction of Aquarium) until you see the Bay Bikes shop on your right. Just after Bay Bikes, you’ll reach Hoffman Avenue.Turn left and head up to Lighthouse Avenue. At Lighthouse, make a right turn. Hula’s will be on your right-hand side, a few doors down.
    52. International Market and Deli, Monterey – 10% – Emphasis on Greek and Mediterranean food, with very popular gyros, falafel, hummus, dolmas, baklava, and more. Eat at the tables here, enjoying the friendly, caring staff, get take out and cycle down to the waterfront for a special picnic. Bike tips: International Market and Deli is very near the Cannery Row bike path, so don’t be deterred if you notice McClellan doesn’ t cut through from the bike path. Just follow these directions. Cycle on the bike path away from the Fisherman’s Wharf side (in the direction of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, but you won’t go nearly that far). Stay on the path until you reach Hoffman Street (Hoffman is just after Trailside Cafe and Coffeehouse on your left, and Bay Bikes on your right). After turning left on Hoffman, go up the slight hill (if cycling with children, perhaps walk bikes along the sidewalk) to Lighthouse Avenue. Turn left on Lighthouse Ave (landmark: Book Buyers is on your right at Hoffman & Lighthouse). Turn left, but don’t go out onto the street as the Int’l Market and Deli is this side of Lighthouse anyway. Just walk your bikes along the sidewalk the remaining distance. International Market and Deli will be on your left, a short way down.
    53. Island Taco, Carmel – 10%
    54. Jose’s Mexican Bar & Grill, Monterey – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – 638 Wave Street; 831/655-4419 – Authentic Mexican cuisine and attentive, caring service. Dine in their spacious dining room, or at the bar to enjoy the friendly company of staff, or dine on their back deck, which faces the Cannery Row bike path right below. Bike tips: Rear of building is directly on the Cannery Row bike path, between Hoffman and Prescott Avenues. Coming from the Fisherman’s Wharf/downtown Monterey side of the bike path, pedal north (in direction of Aquarium) until you see the Bay Bikes shop on your right. Just after Bay Bikes, you’ll reach Hoffman Avenue. Cross Hoffman, and in the middle of the next block, on your left, you’ll see a reddish-colored wooden building with an upstairs deck directly on the bike path: that’s Jose’s! (There’s an entrance in back, or you may easily round the building and enter at the front. Very convenient location for cyclists! (And Jose’s Lounge Underground is downstairs from the dining room.)
    55. Jose’s Mexican Food, Seaside – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – 1612 Contra Costa; 831/899-0345 – Authentic Mexican cuisine and attentive, caring service. Eat at the bar or in either of the two cozy dining rooms. Family friendly, with crayon-art on the hallway walls testifying to their many years of popularity in the community. Bike tips: Located at Del Monte Avenue and Contra Costa, bordering Sand City, Jose’s-Seaside is located near the bike path; note that it’s barely after Del Monte and Broadway! From Robert’s Lake at Canyon Del Rey, if you’re comfortable being adventurous, you might cross Canyon Del Rey and cut through where the old railroad tracks used to be, then come out at Contra Costa. (Ask a local in the vicinity, as this isn’t clear on TAMC map.) Or, at Robert’s Lake, share Del Monte Avenue with cars; wear high-visibility clothing and exercise extra caution. (While you’re cycling this route, you’ll pass Sports Center Bicycles; check their fun “why bike” sign in the window!)
    56. Koko’s Cafe, Monterey – 10% – Mediterranean food, gelato, and pastries. Warm, caring service. Bike tips: Location is straight up Alvarado Street from the Custom House plaza/Fisherman’s Wharf. Note that at Del Monte Avenue (just in front of the Portola Hotel & Spa), cyclists are directed to use Calle Principal, since Alvarado is a one-way street. No worries, it’s a wider street anyway! Bike up Calle Principal until you see Comerica Bank on your left. Get off your bike here and walk through the little Bonifacio Plaza; you’ll quickly reach Alvarado Street (Britannia Arms will be on your right). Turn left and bike down Alvarado a short distance to Koko’s, which will be on your right.
    57. Krua Thai, Monterey – 20% – Bike tips: located in the Cypress Plaza in downtown Monterey, across from the historic Casa Munras hotel, about a block and a half from the MST plaza (bike-and-ride option). This is about four blocks from the coastal bike path. Direx tip: From the bike path at Wharf #2, cross Del Monte Avenue and take Figueroa (you’ll see La Casa Bodega on the corner) and continue up Figueroa until it deads end; that is Church Street. Make a right on Church and go another block to Abrego. Make a left on Abrego. Go straight up Abrego, you’ll cross Fremont (there’s a traffic signal there), and immediately after the gas station, on your right-hand side, is the Cypress Plaza. Turn right into the plaza. Cross the entire parking lot and make a right.  Krua Thai will be immediately on your right.   Direx note: Munras becomes Abrego at Eldorado; and Abrego becomes Washington at Pearl. If you’re confused about our streets, it’s not you, it’s Old Monterey!
    58. Kula Ranch, Marina – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – Relax in this very special hideaway restaurant and bar, popular with both locals and visitors, located at the Marina Sanctuary Resort. Also makes a perfect location for business lunches or dinners, with many seating options for privacy: dining rooms, bar, and heated deck and patio with firepits. Or, whoop it up on Taco Tuesdays and other fun occasions! Kula Ranch is a delightful mix of up-country Western Maui and a soothing island ambiance. Executive Chef Darrell Rose (formerly of Fresh Cream) features fresh seafood, steaks, prime rib, sushi bar creations, exotic salads, appetizers, and desserts. Bike tips: Location is next to the Marina State Beach, and right off the beautiful Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail AKA bike path. How handy for cyclists!
    59. LALLA Lounge, Salinas – 10% – “Always a double” martinis, tequila bar, “10-minute vacations,” and “22-minute vacations” drink specialties. Relax in this friendly atmosphere and enjoy some cocktails. Then, before hopping back on your bike, have a delicious meal here–seating at the sociable bar, and at lounge tables or booths. Or dine at the connected Elli’s. Bike tips: a mile and a half bike ride from the National Steinbeck Center in Oldtown Salinas, via Main Street. Or, use the slightly longer route provided here. From the MST Transit Plaza, take Gabilan Street past First Awakenings, past Monterey Street (one-way street, traffic light). Turn RIGHT at next intersection, which is Pajaro Street. You can take it all the way to San Joaquin Street (1.5 to 2 miles). Turn RIGHT and go one block to S. Main Street. Make a LEFT turn and continue to LALLA Lounge/Elli’’s, which will be on your right. Note: this route is a little longer than just going through Oldtown via Salinas St. and getting onto S. Main Street, but it’s safer and quieter, more residential. So again, the recommended route is to avoid biking on South Main Street and use Pajaro Street instead. (Pajaro is one block east of S. Main St, runs parallel to it. Pajaro is less crowded with cars and has better bike lanes most of the way.) If, however, you choose to travel on Main Street, wear high-visibility clothing and exercise extra caution to enjoy this busy avenue, where you’ll pass through a stretch of local shops and bustling shopping centers coming from Steinbeck Center. Also note: cyclists from the San Francisco Bay area can bring their bikes to Oldtown Salinas via Amtrak train. Tourists and local residents coming from the Monterey Peninsula may want to transport their bikes to Salinas on the Monterey-Salinas Transit bus, then cycle in Salinas. LALLA Lounge is about 1.5 miles from the Monterey-Salinas Transit plaza; the MST buses carry bikes as part of their bike-and-ride program. For tips on using MST buses, start with the addendum to “Tips for Tourists Bicycling Monterey.”
    60. LALLAgrill Contemporary California Cuisine, Monterey – 10% – Healthy assortment of small plates and hearty entrees. Fresh, local, organic fruits and vegetables, and herbs picked from the restaurant’s garden wall. See website for details on this unique setting. Restaurant is located in the Del Monte Shopping Mall. Bike tips: One way to reach the Del Monte Center is to use the MST bike-and-ride option to get there, then bike around the Center and wherever you’d like to bike afterward. Or, cycling from downtown Monterey, when you reach Munras and Eldorado, note that you can can bike through Don Davee Park (which borders Munras Avenue) to reach the Del Monte Shopping Center. Once you reach the Center’s parking lot, head left toward the theatres, which are across from LALLAgrill. Additional direx tip if cycling from downtown Monterey: Munras becomes Abrego at Eldorado; and Abrego becomes Washington at Pearl.
    61. LALLApalooza Big American Dinner House & Martini Bar, Monterey – 10% – Reflects “an era where life was big”! A celebratory ambiance and a varied menu, masterfully overseen by Executive Chef Luis Osorio. Osorio’s roasted beet salad, certified Angus beef steaks, and skillet seared deboned half chicken are just a few of the most popular dishes. The LALLA dining rooms start up front alongside a lively bar that is a martini lover’s heaven, and stretch back to the quiet, cozy back dining room (where you’ll enter if you park your bike off Calle Principal, instead of Alvarado Street–see bike tips for more on that.) Bike tips: Location is straight up Alvarado Street from the Custom House plaza/Fisherman’s Wharf. Note that at Del Monte Avenue (just in front of the Portola Hotel & Spa), cyclists are directed to use Calle Principal, since Alvarado is a one-way street. No worries, it’s a wider street anyway! Bike up Calle Principal, pass Comerica Bank on your left, and soon after, behind a metered parking lot, LALLApalooza has a clearly marked back entrance off Calle Principal.
    62. Bike tips forthcoming. La Plaza Bakery & Cafe-Gonzales – 10% – Family owned and operated since 1982, serving traditional Mexican food—tortas, burritos, tacos, enchiladas and more—for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Also serve fresh Mexican pastries daily, along with traditional Mexican beverages and Seattle’s best coffee. Nutrition facts available. Great customer service.
    63. Bike tips forthcoming. La Plaza Bakery & Cafe-Greenfield – 10% – Family owned and operated since 1982, serving traditional Mexican food—tortas, burritos, tacos, enchiladas and more—for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Also serve fresh Mexican pastries daily, along with traditional Mexican beverages and Seattle’s best coffee. Nutrition facts available. Great customer service.
    64. La Plaza Bakery & Cafe-East Salinas (Bardin Rd) – 10% – Family owned and operated since 1982, serving traditional Mexican food—tortas, burritos, tacos, enchiladas and more—for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Also serve fresh Mexican pastries daily, along with traditional Mexican beverages and Seattle’s best coffee. Nutrition facts available. Great customer service. Bike tips: Located on Bardin Road. Note that there are not as many bike lanes and generally not as much bike awareness on part of drivers in East Salinas. Recommended route from downtown Salinas is to get on Alisal Street and cycle east, about 3 to 3.5 miles, to Bardin Road. East Alisal Street bends to the right there, and there’s Bardin Elementary School, so it’s easy to spot. Turn left and go 1/2 mile. La Plaza Bakery & Cafe is in the shopping plaza on the right, just before the intersection with Williams Road. Some cyclists may want to return to the downtown area by traveling on Williams Road back to East Alisal, or continue on Williams to John Street, which parallels East Alisal. However, there’s a lot of traffic and there are many parked cars along the way, and bike lanes are not well defined in most places. Watch your rear-view mirror! (Don’t have a mirror on your bike yet? They’re great for routes like this.) A better return route is to return the way you came, down Bardin to East Alisal; although it’s a longer route, it is safer.
    65. La Plaza Bakery & Cafe-East Salinas (N. Sanborn Rd) – 10% – Family owned and operated since 1982, serving traditional Mexican food—tortas, burritos, tacos, enchiladas and more—for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Also serve fresh Mexican pastries daily, along with traditional Mexican beverages and Seattle’s best coffee. Nutrition facts available. Great customer service. Bike tips: Located on N. Sanborn Road. Recommended route from downtown Salinas is to get on Alisal Street and cycle east. About 2 miles out, turn LEFT onto N. Sanborn at intersection of E. Alisal and Sanborn. It’s a very busy intersection with stores on all corners. La Plaza Bakery & Cafe is almost immediately on the RIGHT side of N. Sanborn Road.
    66. Bike tips forthcoming. La Plaza Bakery & Cafe-Soledad- 10% – Family owned and operated since 1982, serving traditional Mexican food—tortas, burritos, tacos, enchiladas and more—for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Also serve fresh Mexican pastries daily, along with traditional Mexican beverages and Seattle’s best coffee. Nutrition facts available. Great customer service.
    67. La Plaza Bakery & Cafe-West Salinas – 10% – Family owned and operated since 1982, serving traditional Mexican food—tortas, burritos, tacos, enchiladas and more—for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Also serve fresh Mexican pastries daily, along with traditional Mexican beverages and Seattle’s best coffee. Nutrition facts available. Great customer service. Bike tips: (1) Bike-and ride option from Oldtown Salinas: From the Oldtown Salinas MST Transit Center, you may put your bike on the MST 42. This will provide you with a nice introductory view of the community on your bus ride, which takes about 35-45 minutes. (2) Bike from Oldtown Salinas: For more experienced cyclists, you may prefer to bike there as follows. As usual, when sharing the road with cars, wear high-visibility clothing and exercise extra caution. From the MST Transit Center, cross Salinas Street to the big parking lot; pass the National Steinbeck Center through an alleyway (nice wall mural of John Steinbeck!). Turn left at the alley by the parking garage, and turn right onto W. Market Street; the intersection with a traffic light is right there, and the directional sign by the traffic light states “to North Main Street.” (Note: Monterey Street becomes North Main Street at West Market; and there’s no sign indicating Monterey Street at the intersection.) Cyclists will see the sidewalk they are to get on when they cross West Market Street and descend under the railroad bridge, because it’s elevated (a higher curb, that is). For safety, as you go under the railroad overcrossing, STAY ON THE SIDEWALK (walk your bike). Take a LEFT at the first light after the railroad overcrossing–it’s West Rossi Street–and take West Rossi for 1 to 1.5 miles to N. Davis Road, then turn RIGHT onto N. Davis. La Plaza Bakery West is in the shopping center to your RIGHT as you reach the traffic light at North Davis and Post Road.
    68. La Sala’s Bi-Rite Deli, Monterey – 10% – Owned by John and Debbie La Sala, this popular, easygoing deli and market is located in a Monterey residential area very near the bike path. The sandwich specials include a well-loved tri-tip and a traditional breaded calamari. You can relax at the deli tables in front of a picture window, or sit out front on a bench. Either way, this is a fun spot to watch the neighborhood activity right before your eyes. The friendly service makes you feel right at home. Discount applies to your deli meal (i.e., deli sandwich, beverage, chips–not to other grocery items). Bike tips: Coming from Wharf #2 or Naval Postgraduate School cycle north along the bike path heading, parallel to Del Monte Ave, and heading in the direction of Embassy Suites (tall hotel), altho you won’t go that far. You will pass the roller skating arena; and later, at Del Monte Ave & Casa Verde Street, you’ll see Monterey Fish House on your right (there’s a light at Casa Verde). Exit the bike path here, crossing the street at Del Monte Avenue and Casa Verde. Continue up Casa Verde just a couple blocks. La Sala’s Bi-Rite Deli (and Market) are on the corner, on your right-hand side.
    69. Le St. Tropez, Carmel – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – Le St. Tropez expresses unique warmth that is the culture found on the Coast and in the Hills of Provence. A cuisine much different than that found anywhere else in France. Gather with friends and neighbors to relax, share, and enjoy the Cuisine of the Sun.  Bike tips:  Bicycle here for lunch, then coast down the hill to Carmel Beach for the afternoon!  Or bike around the nearby residential streets to enjoy the charming architecture of homes in Carmel-by-the-Sea.  Coming from elsewhere in the county? Use the MST bike-and-ride option to buses that go to Carmel Plaza. Then cycle down Ocean Avenue a short distance to Dolores, make a left, and Le St. Tropez will soon be on your left.
    70. Bike tips forthcoming! Lemon Grass, Moss Landing – 10% (Alcohol excluded)
    71. London Bridge Pub, Monterey – 15% (Alcohol excluded) – Fish ‘n chips and wide selection of beers. Dine indoors, or outside on patios with fire pits, directly alongside yacht harbor. London Bridge Pub also offers live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Check their website for entertainment schedule. Bike tips: Located right off the bike path, at the top of extra bike-friendly Wharf #2. Because Wharf #2, unlike Wharf #1, has a road that extends to its end, and it is also far less congested with pedestrian traffic, you are welcome to ride your bike along this wharf. Before or after your meal at London Bridge Pub, take a little time to bike along the wharf and enjoy this special view on the Monterey Bay.
    72. Loose Noodle, Monterey – 15% (Alcohol excluded) – Cozy, elegant dining in a well-established locals’ favorite. Traveling with an expensive bike?  Ask for a window table and you’ll be able to keep an eye on your bike (park it right out front)!  Serving seafood pastas and traditional Italian favorites, beef, chicken, vegetarian, and other dishes.  Homemade soups, salads, desserts. Bike tips:  Located on Lighthouse Avenue, parallel to and just above the Cannery Row multi-use/bike path.   Cycle on the bike path away from the Fisherman’s Wharf side (in the direction of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, but you won’t go nearly that far).  Stay on the path until you reach Hoffman Street (Hoffman is just after Trailside Cafe on your left, and Bay Bikes on your right).   After turning left on Hoffman, go up the slight hill (if cycling with children, perhaps walk bikes along the sidewalk) to Lighthouse Avenue.  Turn left, but don’t go out onto the street as Loose Noodle is this side of Lighthouse anyway.  Just walk your bikes along the sidewalk the remaining distance.  (Landmark for your turn:   Book Buyers is on your right at Hoffman & Lighthouse).  Loose Noodle will be on your left, about mid-way down the block.  Look for their blue awning.
    73. Lopez Taqueria (formerly La Casa Bodega), Monterey – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – Enjoy a salad, sandwich, glass of wine, then the Monterey Beach across the street! A relaxed, friendly deli and market. Bike tips: right off the bike path! Llocated directly across Del Monte Avenue from Wharf #2! Parking lot in the rear is across side street from the Monterey Sports Center and also borders Monterey Federal Credit Union’s Franklin Street location.
    74. Loulou’s Griddle in the Middle, Monterey – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – Wharf #2, 831/372-0568
    75. Maha’s Lebanese Cuisine, Monterey – 15% – 470 Alvarado St; 831/372-8999 – Native Lebanese cuisine, homemade on the premises–and acclaimed by Monterey County Herald GO! food critic Melissa Snyder as “intensely flavorful and utterly delightful.” Entrees include lamb, beef, and chicken kabobs; vegan and vegetarian dishes, such as vegan stuffed bell peppers. Traditional favorites falafel, humus, dolmas, and more. Salads, soups, baklava and other desserts. Belly dancing on Friday and Saturday nights. Bike tips: Near the bike path, Maha’s is located straight up Alvarado Street from the Custom House plaza/Fisherman’s Wharf; however note the following bike tip. At Del Monte Avenue (in front of the Portola Hotel & Spa), cyclists are directed to use Calle Principal, since Alvarado is a one-way street. No worries, it’s a wider street anyway! Bike up Calle Principal until you see Comerica Bank on your left. Get off your bike here and walk through the little Bonifacio Plaza; you’ll quickly reach Alvarado Street (Britannia Arms will be on your righ). Turn right and walk up Alvarado to Maha’s, which will be on your right.
    76. Marisco’s Puerto Nuevo, Seaside – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with breakfast and lunch items served all day. Salads, seafood cocktails, made-to-order soups, traditional Mexican fare, and seafood specialties, including Paella Mexicana, Mojara Frita, Pulpo ala Marinera, and more. From vegetarian burritos to sliced beef tongue, there’s something for everyone. Bike tips: Located on Broadway Avenue, near Del Monte Avenue. Direx from the coastal bike path at Roberts Lake/Embassy Suites (the Canyon Del Rey and Del Monte Avenue intersection): Option #1 : head north on Del Monte Avenue (heading up Del Monte in the direction of Starbucks, which will be on your left). You’ll soon pass Sports Center Bicycles on your right. Continue up Del Monte until you get to Broadway. Make a right on Broadway and continue to Marisco’s, which is on your right-hand side on a corner, next to the Sportsman’s Club. Option #2: From Robert’s Lake at Canyon Del Rey, if you’re comfortable being adventurous, you may cross Canyon Del Rey and cut through where the old railroad tracks used to be, then come out at Contra Costa. (Ask a local in the vicinity, as this isn’t clear on TAMC map.) At Contra Costa, turn right, then left onto Broadway. Continue to Marisco’s, which is on your right-hand side on a corner, next to the Sportsman’s Club.
    77. Marisco’s Puerto Nuevo, Soledad – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with breakfast and lunch items served all day. Salads, seafood cocktails, made-to-order soups, traditional Mexican fare, and seafood specialties, including Paella Mexicana, Mojara Frita, Pulpo ala Marinera, and more. From vegetarian burritos to sliced beef tongue, there’s something for everyone. Bike tips: located in the Soledad Mission Shopping Center.
    78. Merlot Bistro, Carmel – 15% – Fresh, colorful cuisine from California’s wine country in an atmosphere of provincial charm and unhurried comfort. Bike tips: Bike here for lunch, then coast down the hill to Carmel Beach for the afternoon, or to continue cycling along Scenic Drive (wear a high-visibility sash or bright garment, as drivers may be distracted by much to see). Coming from elsewhere in the county? Use the MST bike-and-ride option to buses that go to Carmel Plaza. Then cycle down Ocean Avenue a short distance to Merlot, which will be on your left.
    79. Michael’s Grill and Taqueria, Salinas – 10% (Alcohol excluded). Bike tips: From MST Transit Center, bike this route: head east on Central Ave toward Salinas St. Turn right at Salinas. Continue to West San Luis and turn left. Continue to Main St. Turn left at Main; Michael’s will be on your right-hand side.
    80. Mountain Mike’s Pizza, Marina – 20% (Alcohol excluded)
    81. Mountain Mike’s Pizza, Salinas (#2 – 931 W. Alisal) – 20% (Alcohol excluded)
    82. Papa Chevo’s, Monterey – 10%- Fast, reasonably priced traditional Mexican favorites! Friendly service and casual, relaxed atmosphere. Two separate dining rooms on either side of the stairs that lead to Adventures by the Sea (bike rentals). Both dining rooms have large picture windows, so you can enjoy watching the travelers coming along this quieter end of Cannery Row. Bike tips: located directly off the Cannery Row bike path. Coming from the Fisherman’s Wharf/Wharf #1 side, pass the Coast Guard pier and San Carlos Beach; then make a turn off the bike path onto the first street after the San Carlos Beach parking lot. This will take you down to Cannery Row, where you’ll make a left turn onto Cannery Row. Pedal a short distance and Papa Chevo’s will be on your left, before you reach Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa (if you reach the hotel’s valet area, you’ve gone just a little too far). Papa Chevo’s is directly on the street and has large picture windows. You go up just a few stairs, which they share with Adventures-by-the-Sea (a bike rental location).
    83. Parker-Lusseau Pastries, 731 Munras Ave, Monterey – 10% – In-house/sit-down food and beverage service only (not applicable on cake orders and other take-out). Besides yummy treats, features soup, salad, quiche, and sandwiches too!A delightful shop where you can sit and savor the offerings. Have children along? There’s room for children to stretch their legs, do some jumping jacks or what-have-you on the plaza patio directly in front of Parker-Lusseau while parents linger over coffee and pastries, keeping an eye on them through the big picture window. Bike tips: located in the Cypress Plaza in downtown Monterey, across from the historic Casa Munras hotel, about a block and a half from the MST plaza (bike-and-ride option). This is about four blocks from the coastal bike path. Direx tip: From the bike path at Wharf #2, cross Del Monte Avenue and take Figueroa (you’ll see La Casa Bodega on the corner) and continue up Figueroa until it deads end; that is Church Street. Make a right on Church and go another block to Abrego. Make a left on Abrego. Go straight up Abrego, you’ll cross Fremont (there’s a traffic signal there), and immediately after the gas station, on your right-hand side, is the Cypress Plaza. Turn right into the plaza. Parker-Lusseau is toward the left as you face the plaza shop entrances. Direx note: Munras becomes Abrego at Eldorado; and Abrego becomes Washington at Pearl. If you’re confused about our streets, it’s not you, it’s Old Monterey!
    84. Parker-Lusseau Pastries, 539 Hartnell Street, Monterey – 10% – In-house/sit-down only (not applicable on take-out). Besides yummy treats, features soup, salad, quiche, and sandwiches too! Located in a historic house, this Parker-Lusseau location has a cozy little indoor dining area plus a front porch where you can eat while you watch people come and go from the Post Office next door. Fun place to people watch. Bike tips: Located in the heart of Old Monterey next to the Monterey Post Office. The PO is just above the Uptown Monterey shopping center, which is across from the Monterey MST Transit Center. Short ride from the coastal bike path as follows: from Wharf #2, cross Del Monte Avenue and go straight up Figueroa (you’ll see La Casa Bodega on your left at the corner of Del Monte & Figueroa). Continue on Figueroa all the way to Pearl, which is just after Jacks Park (you’ll see the back side of the park on your right-hand side as you cycle). Turn RIGHT on Pearl. After the stop sign where First Nat’l Bank is on your right, you’ll also see East Village Coffee Lounge on your right. Continue up Pearl until you come to Tyler. You’ll see Higgins Windows on your left-hand side. (If you’re traveling with children, rather than bike alongside the buses, you may want to walk bikes from here, as it’s a short distance further.) At the Pearl & Tyler corner, turn LEFT on Tyler; you’ll now be alongside the MST Transit Center (it’s on your right), and, continuing straight, you’ll come to a stop sign at the T-intersection; you’ll be facing Peet’s Coffee. That’s the Uptown Monterey shopping center. Go straight through the lot and up Carl’s Alley, then make a right and you’re at Parker-Lusseau, in the historic building with the little front porch. (If traveling with children, I recommend this alternate route once you reach the Uptown Monterey shopping center: make a left onto Munras–perhaps even walking bikes along sidewalk– and continue to the traffic signal at the corner, which is Abrego. Make a right on Abrego and head up the street to the stop sign at the corner of Abrego and Hartnell; the PO will be on your right. Make a right onto Hartnell. Just past the PO driveway and Carl’s Alley is Parker-Lusseau!)
    85. Passionfish, Pacific Grove – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – The first restaurant to be certified in the Monterey County Green Business Program, the Passionfish menu reflects their commitment to ecological sustainability by their use of many sustainable and organically grown ingredients. Owners Ted and Cindy Walter are unassuming community leaders, while Passionfish is one of the few Monterey County restaurants to hold a Zagat rating. Their multiple award-winning restaurant is popular with both visitors and locals. Bike tips: Passionfish is in downtown Pacific Grove, not far from the bike path. Leave the bike path at Lover’s Point, then take 17th Street up to Lighthouse Avenue. Make a right on Lighthouse Avenue and continue to Congress. Passionfish will be on your left, at Lighthouse and Congress.
    86. Peppers Mexicali Cafe, Pacific Grove – 15% (Alcohol excluded) Longtime popularity with both locals and visitors mean this place is generally hopping! A lively atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious Cal-Mex cuisine. Full bar. Bike tips: Pepper’s is in downtown Pacific Grove, not far from the bike path. Coming from the bike path at Lover’s Point, take 17th Street straight up to Central Avenue. Make a left at Central, then a right on Forest. Pepper’s will be in your right-hand side, just after the parking lot.
    87. Persian Grill, Monterey – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – Exotic, multi-layered cuisine with 2500 years of saffron, sumac, and rosewater scented history. Aromatic stews (khoresht) flavored with mint and pomegranates, stuffed fruit and vegetables (dolmeh), and roasted meats (kabob). Bike tips: Located on Lighthouse Avenue, parallel to the nearby Cannery Row bike path.
    88. Petra, Pacific Grove – 10% Established in 1984, a multiple award- winning Mediterranean restaurant.  Serving hot and cold appetizers, soups, salads–including tabuli, falafel, and Greek salads; sandwiches (from gyros to kefta kabob to hamburger and fries!).  Main courses include vegetarian combo platter, lamb shank, New York steak, and the Royal Feast!  Desserts include Turkish delight, halva with pistachios, and baklava.  Much more!  Bike tips:  Located at the corner of Lighthouse Ave (in PG) and 13th Street, just a few blocks above the coastal bike path/multi-use trail. Traveling with children? It’s great to let them get some practice on safer, out-of-the-way streets, so make use of this little detour on your way to Petra from the bike path: Ricketts Row (little more than a quiet alley)! Coming from the Monterey Bay Aquarium, continue along the bike/multi-use path until you reach the big stretch of green lawn just after a stone walkway. Leave the bike path there and go out to Oceanview Blvd. Continue up to 10th Street, where you’ll make a left. Head up 10th, then take a right on Doc Ricketts Row. (This is the extra child-friendly street biking stretch.) Make a left on 13th and a left on Lighthouse. Petra will be on your right–don’t miss it! It looks like a quiet residence, although you’ll note the thoughtful wheelchair lift out front.
    89. Pico de Gallo, Monterey – 10% A fresh, new casual place serving traditional Mexican food, from carnitas and chicken to chile verde and tortas, reasonably priced. A great stop for cyclists on the coastal bike path. Order at the counter, then relax at a booth or table while your meal is prepared within view. Indoor or outdoor dining, with front patio that faces Del Monte Avenue and the bike path. Bike tips: Pico de Gallo is just across Del Monte Avenue from the coastal bike path. From Wharf #2, cycle along the path, parallel to Del Monte Ave. You’ll pass the old skating arena; and later, at Del Monte Ave & Casa Verde Street, you’ll see Monterey Fish House on your right (there’s a light at Casa Verde). That’s a good place for you to exit the path, cross the street, and cycle the remaining distance on Del Monte Avenue—or, walk your bike along the sidewalk for the remaining distance. Watch for Pico de Gallo just after the Monterey Airbus office and Allied Moving. Pico de Gallo is a small place, tucked into the middle of the block, so don’t overlook it! It’s just before Ramona Street. If you reach Napa Auto or USA Gas, you’ve gone too far; go back, it’s worth it!
    90. Pierce Ranch Vineyards, 499 Wave Street, Monterey – 20% (discount applies to all wine sales).  Specializing in Spanish and Portuguese varietals.  All local, with the Pierce vineyard located in the San Antonio mountain range of southern Monterey County.  Bike tips:  Pierce is very near the Cannery Row bike path, so don’t be deterred if you notice McClellan (the cross street nearest 499 Wave Street) doesn’ t cut through from the bike path.  Just follow these directions. Coming from the bike path just above the Monterey Bay Aquarium, stay on the path until you reach Hoffman Street (Hoffman is just before Bay Bikes, which will be on your left).  Turn right on Hoffman, go up the slight hill (if cycling with children, perhaps walk bikes along the sidewalk) to Wave Street.  Turn left on Wave Street and continue to Pierce, which is at 499 Wave, in the cute little house between Hoffman and McClellan.
    91. Pino’s Cafe, Monterey – 10% – 211 Alvarado St; 831/649-1930 – Highly acclaimed by attendees at the nearby Monterey Conference Center for delicious omelettes and terrific service, Pino’s has a breakfast and lunch menu including Italian favorites, and it’s also a great ice cream stop for cyclists, including Italian coffee and gelato lovers! Bike tips: coming from the bike/multi-use path at Fisherman’s Wharf/Wharf #1, Pino’s is located just across the Custom House Plaza from that bike path! Very convenient for cyclists, Pino’s is directly across the plaza’s corridor from Adventures-by-the-Sea, a bike rental location.
    92. Plaza Linda Mexican Restaurant & Cantina, Carmel Valley – 15% – Bike tips:  First, when biking on Carmel Valley Road and other well-traveled roads throughout the county, remember to make use of high-visibility apparel and accessories. Second, don’t feel you have to do an all-or-nothing cycling day to visit Plaza Linda! Consider the bike-and-ride options (see Tips for Tourists Bicycling Monterey). Take your bike on the MST bus, via hotel shuttle, or your own car’s bike rack part-way, then cycle the remaining distance. Here are three options. Option 1: Use the MST bike-and-ride option from anywhere in the county and take it to the mouth of Carmel Valley, at H’way 1 and Carmel Valley Road (get off at the Barnyard Shopping Village). Then, bike the remaining 11.5 miles to Plaza Linda. Two miles after Laureles Grade you’ll be in Carmel Valley Village, where you’ll turn left on Pilot Road; then make a right on Del Fino; Plaza Linda will be on your left. Option 2: If cycling from Carmel-by-the-Sea, take the route via Rio Road, passing Carmel Mission, instead of cycling via Highway 1. When you reach Rio Road and Highway 1, cross over H’way 1 and continue to the Carmel Post Office. Make a left here, then make a right at the T-intersection. At the next T-intersection, make a left. Continue up to the light at Carmel Valley Road. Make a right. Then, continue along Carmel Valley Road for 11.5 miles to Carmel Valley Village; make a left on Pilot Road, then a right on Del Fino, and Plaza Linda will be on your left. Option 3: (This route is for the most fit cyclists, as Laureles Grade is steep.) Coming from Salinas, take Highway 68 toward Monterey / Laguna Seca. Turn left at Laureles Grade and continue for six miles. Turn left onto Carmel Valley Road and continue another two miles to Carmel Valley Village. Make a left on Pilot Road, a right on Del Fino, and Plaza Linda will be on your left.
    93. Plume’s Coffee House, Monterey – 20% – 400 Alvarado; 831/373-4526 – Picture windows on this busy corner in downtown Monterey make this a very popular study and socializing spot for MIIS and DLI students, tourists, and locals. Wide selection of teas and coffees, along with yummy hot chocolate and other cold and hot beverages. Pastry case is chock-full of goodies. One the independently owned local coffee shops in Monterey County. Bike tips: Located near the bike path at Fisherman’s Wharf. Get there by crossing the Custom House plaza just above Fisherman’s Wharf. You’ll soon reach Del Monte Avenue, at a T-intersection where Del Monte meets Alvarado Street. You may walk up Alvarado on the sidewalk from here. Or, to cycle the short distance from the Del Monte-Alvarado T-intersection, note that cyclists are directed to the right, to use Calle Principal (because Alvarado is a one-way street). No worries, Calle Principal is a wider street anyway! Bike up Calle Principal until you see Comerica Bank on your left. Get off your bike there and walk through the little Bonifacio Plaza; you’ll quickly reach Alvarado Street (Britannia Arms will be on your right). Turn left and head down Alvarado to Plume’s, which will be on your left, on the corner of Alvarado and Franklin.
    94. Point Pinos Grill, Pacific Grove – 15% – Emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, as evidenced by delicious daily specials and menu adaptations. New American cuisine with European influence. Sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean! Bike tips: conveniently located at the Pacific Grove Municipal Golf Links Clubhouse, across the street from the Point Pinos Lighthouse. Direx here are coming from the Aquarium and are excerpted from “Tips for Tourists Bicycling Monterey”: first, bike to Lover’s Point (this stretch is all off-road bike path, and it even has separate lanes for pedestrians and cyclists). Then, from Lover’s Point to Asilomar Avenue, you share the road with cars, and this is a signed bike route only (there is no marked bike lane). After Asilomar Avenue, a bike lane is re-established (still shares the road with cars). You’ll see the Lighthouse up ahead, and the golf links on your left.
    95. PortaBella, Carmel – 15% – Featuring beautiful specialties from France, Italy, and Spain, graciously hosted in a cozy, elegant atmosphere. PortaBella also has the only outdoor patio dining directly on Ocean Avenue, a fun place to watch the charming world go by. Bike here for lunch, then coast down the hill to Carmel Beach for the afternoon, or to continue cycling along Scenic Drive (wear a high-visibility sash or bright garment, as drivers may be distracted by much to see). Coming from elsewhere in the county? Use the MST bike-and-ride option to buses that go to Carmel Plaza. Then cycle down Ocean Avenue a short distance to PortaBella, which will be on your left.
    96. Red Brick Pizza, Del Rey Oaks – 10% – “The new Italian,” with fire-roasted gourmet pizzas, fhazani (gourmet Italian sandwiches), fresh-chopped salads, and gelato. A casual family restaurant, with cozy booths indoors that feature individual TVs at each table. You may also dine outdoors on the patio of the Stone Creek Village shopping center, which is across from Monterra’s Highway 68 gate. Bike tips: Besides being handy for Del Rey Oaks residents, this is a nice ride for visitors or locals who want a long stretch of exercise off the bike path without any significant hills, yet on a route that you just can’t get lost on! Direx from the bike path at Roberts Lake and Canyon Del Rey Boulevard, Seaside (by Embassy Suites): take Canyon Del Rey until it reaches Highway 68. En route, you’ll pass Laguna Grande Park (on your right) and the DMV (on your left); then you’ll pass Fremont Ave (there’s a light there, with Walgreen’s on your left and Safeway on your right). Continue, and you’ll pass the Del Rey Oaks City Hall (on your right) and the frog pond (on your left). If you have children along, or just want a stretch off your bike, explore this cool little park, with wooden boardwalks. Then continue along Canyon Del Rey until you almost reach the light at H’way 68. You’ll see Wells Fargo Bank on your right, just before Starbucks and 711. Make a right into the shopping center at the Wells Fargo entrance. Red Brick Pizza will be on your right, about 5-6 doors down.
    97. Bike tips forthcoming. r.g. Burgers, Carmel – 10%
    98. Bike tips forthcoming. r.g. Burgers, Monterey – 10%
    99. Rosa’s La Villa Restaurante, Seaside – 10% (Alcohol excluded)
    100. Rosie’s Country Store (AKA Rosie’s Cracker Barrel), Carmel Valley – 15% – Located just south of Carmel Valley Road and Carmel Valley River, Rosie’s features hummus wraps, BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, pastries from Paris Bakery, milkshakes, fruit smoothies, malts, root beer floats, and more.  A quaint old-fashioned country store,  Rosie’s also sells local honey, local strawberries in season, local olive oil, and fresh bread from Paris Bakery, so you’ll taste many of these yummy ingredients in their menu offerings!  (As usual, the HER Helmet Thursdays discount applies to sit-down food service purchases, not grocery items.) Bike-there tips forthcoming.
    101. Round Table Pizza, Castroville – 20% – Sylvia Barrientos hosts pizza lovers at this Castroville family favorite, and now she puts out a special welcome mat for cyclists, too! All your favorite pizzas, plus salads and more. Casual, relaxed atmosphere. Bike tips: Coming from the Monterey Peninsula, cycle the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail bike path through Marina, and continuing on where it will merge with Del Monte Boulevard. Follow Del Monte Blvd until—just before H’way 1—Del Monte Blvd reaches Del Monte Road. Turn right onto Del Monte Road. Follow it until it T-s into Nashua Road. Take a left onto Nashua; approx 500 ft from there, the bike path resumes on the right-hand side. Watch for the green “bike route” signs. Follow bike path into Castroville. Make a left turn onto Merritt Road/Highway 183. Continue along to Round Table, which will be in large shopping soon right up ahead on your left.
    102. Sakura Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Monterey – 15% – Wish you were in a big city with more late-night food?  Come to Sakura!  People who are looking for yummy, nutritious food in the wee hours gravitate to this spot.  Not only is the food delicious, the vibe is caring.  Keiko and Kazu will help you feel right at home.   You can belly right up to the sushi bar, or choose a table or booth. There’s occasionally karaoke, too. Bike tips:  Sakura is very near the Cannery Row bike/multi-use path, so don’t be deterred if you notice McClellan doesn’t cut through from the bike path. Just follow these directions:  Take the bike path away from the Fisherman’s Wharf side (in the direction of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, but you won’t go nearly that far). Stay on the path until you reach Hoffman Street (Hoffman is just after Trailside Cafe and Coffeehouse on your left, and Bay Bikes on your right). After turning left on Hoffman, go up the slight hill (if cycling with children, perhaps walk bikes along the sidewalk) to Lighthouse Avenue. Turn left on Lighthouse Ave (landmark: Book Buyers is on your right at Hoffman & Lighthouse). Turn left, but don’t go out onto the street as Sakura is this side of Lighthouse anyway. Just walk your bikes along the sidewalk the remaining distance. Sakura will be on your left, a short way down.
    103. Salinas Valley Fish House, Salinas – 15% – Wide selection of the freshest seafood, including oysters, plus chicken, steaks, pork and more in a fine dining, family friendly setting in the heart of Oldtown Salinas. Fantastic beer and wine selection too. Bike tips: Location is just down the street from the National Steinbeck Center, so the same bike tips apply: cyclists from the San Francisco Bay area can bring their bikes to Oldtown Salinas via Amtrak train. Tourists and local residents coming from the Monterey Peninsula may want to transport their bikes to Salinas on the Monterey-Salinas Transit bus, then cycle around Oldtown Salinas. Note that Salinas Valley Fish House is close to the Monterey-Salinas Transit plaza; the MST buses carry bikes as part of their bike-and-ride program. For tips on using MST buses, start with the addendum to “Tips for Tourists Bicycling Monterey.”
    104. San Ardo Cafe, San Ardo – 10% (Alcohol excluded). 1 Cattleman Road; (831) 627-2621. San Ardo Cafe is a family owned restaurant. They serve breakfast and lunch, from omelettes to hamburgers, including a popular chile verde. All the food is homemade–simply good food! Great place to eat, whether you grab a bite to go when you’re on the run, or have time to relax and dine at the cafe. Imported and domestic beer available too. Bike tips: Coming from King City, take the feeder road on the west side of Highway 101 to Wildhorse Cafe (about a mile); then head under the freeway east and follow Wildhorse Road, which turns into Freeman Flat Rd. Take a right when the road hits Hwy 198 and head back west for a mile. Then, turn left on Cattleman Road. A few miles down you will come to the little town of San Ardo. You’ll see the cafe on the left, at the corner of Cattlemen and Railroad. The roads all have very little traffic.
    105. Sandbar & Grill, Monterey – 10% – Relaxing setting in a local’s hideaway, tucked beneath Wharf #2/Commercial Wharf. Enjoy watching otters and boats on this peaceful waterway, or have fun socializing with the friendly staff at the bar. Fresh seafood and more for lunch and dinner. Menu includes a crab benedict that is very popular with local residents! Bike tips: Located right off the bike path on extra bike-friendly (cycling allowed)Wharf #2! Exit the bike path at Wharf #2, cycle down the wharf past London Bridge and Loulous, then Sandbar & Grill will be on your left, just down the stairs. Note: Because Wharf #2, unlike Wharf #1, has a road that extends to its end, and it is also far less congested with pedestrian traffic, you are welcome to ride your bike along this wharf. Before or after your meal at Sandbar & Grill, take a little time to bike along the wharf and enjoy this special view on the Monterey Bay.
    106. Sapporo Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi, Monterey – 15% The food is not only delicious, this restaurant celebrates life and good food with its traditional yet always new before-your-eyes preparation and exciting presentation. Enjoy the large sushi bar, cocktail bar, and dining room on the west side, or enjoy the east side dining room, where you can sit around habachi grill tables and watch the fun! And need I say? This large restaurant that is in a prime location often hard to uphold by previous restaurateurs, is indeed holding its own because the authentic Japanese food, as well as the service, are terrific! Bike tips: Located right off the bike path at the top of extra bike-friendly (cycling allowed) Wharf #2. Exit the bike path at Wharf #2. Sapporo is first building on the left; upstairs. Because Wharf #2, unlike Wharf #1, has a road that extends to its end, and it is also far less congested with pedestrian traffic, you are welcome to ride your bike along this wharf. Before or after your meal at Sapporo, take a little time to bike along the wharf and enjoy this special view on the Monterey Bay.
    107. Scheid Vineyards Estate Winery and Tasting Room, Greenfield – 15% (discount applies to all wine sales). An organic chef’s garden, regulation-length bocce court, and horseshoes area are part of the fun awaiting cyclists at this wine-lover’s destination. Enjoy the converted century-old barn, have a picnic, walk among the grapes, and drink wine, of course!  Bike-there tips forthcoming.
    108. Scheid Vineyards Wine Lounge on Cannery Row, Monterey – 15% (discount applies to all wine sales). Scheid’s 2,000 square foot wine lounge provides a comfortable elegance in which to savor every flavor of their vineyards. It’s a wine-lover’s oasis, whose interior is set apart from the bustle of its Cannery Row home, yet is conveniently located to enjoy all the neighborhood’s activities for before and after experiences–if you ever want to leave! Bike tips: Conveniently located just below the Cannery Row bike path. Option 1: Cycling along the bike path from the Pacific Grove/Monterey Aquarium side, stop at Irving Avenue. Lock up your bike at one of the bike racks along the bike path there. Then walk down Irving to Cannery Row (super close), make a left, and Scheid will be on your left-hand side. Option 2: Cycling from the Monterey Bay Aquarium on the street, head in the direction of the Clement Intercontinental; Scheid is on your right, just across from the Clement’s main entrance and valet parking area (which provides bike valet service too). Perhaps you’ll want to use the Clement’s bike valet parking and enjoy a meal there after your Scheid wine experience!
    109. Schooners Bistro on the Bay, Monterey – 20% – There’s no question about it: this place is exceptional for local outdoor dining, even if the food were not also extraordinary. From a heated terrace, enjoy views of the Monterey Bay and surrounding communities—and beyond, to Mount Toro. Indoor dining room features classic sailing vessel design. Fresh seafood, pastas, hot appetizers, salads, soups, and hearty sandwiches. Beverages include award-winning margarita, premium spirits, and California’s finest wines. Bike tips: Located just below the Cannery Row bike path, at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa. Bicycle valet parking is available at the hotel entrance. Or, lock up your bike on the bike rack in front of the hotel’s Cafe La Strada. Coming from the Fisherman’s Wharf side, continue on the bike path until you get to Drake Street (you’ll see Cannery Row Deli on your left right at Drake). Turn right and you’ll see the Monterey Plaza Hotel right before your eyes!
    110. Seventeenth Street Grille (17th Street Grille), Pacific Grove – 10% – 617 Lighthouse Ave; 831/373-5474. Burgers, quesadillas, wraps, seafood specials, salads, bowls, and more, plus desserts, beer, wine, home-brewed iced tea, and more. Outdoor patio and fire-pit, or indoor dining. Phone orders gladly accepted. Bike tips: 17th Street Grille is in downtown Pacific Grove, not far from the bike path. Coming from the bike path at Lover’s Point, take 17th Street straight up to Lighthouse Avenue. 17th Street Grille will be on the far right-hand corner.
    111. New participant! Additional details forthcoming. Sweet Elena’s, Sand City – 10% (Alcohol excluded)
    112. Taqueria del Mar, Monterey, – 10% (Alcohol excluded) -House specialties include Marisco’s Diabla, Crab Chimichanga, Pescado al Mojo de Ajo or Prawns, and more. The menu emphasizes light, healthy food without compromising flavor (i.e., chimichangas made on the grill, not in a fryer), enchiladas flacos, guaraches, tortas, sopes. They feature all the traditional favorites in a healthier version, including tostadas, quesadillas, burritos, and tacos. Don’t be misled if there aren’t many people dining in this small, simple establishment. This locally owned taqueria is in high demand for some of the most delicious carry-out food in town. And the warm, caring ways of owner Nicholas Gasca and his niece Lilia Gasca have earned a faithful following among the locals–along with savvy tourists, who share a heads-up with their traveling friends. Also, although Taqueria del Mar does a lot of carry out business, it is also an exceptional dining spot, because it is muyo tranquillo! The calm, peaceful vibe established by the Gascas is tangible. Want to enjoy mealtime conversation? There’s no TV, no background music. Another hot tip: this is a great stop for kids who need a snack—when they’ve just had a meal!—and parents say “no more sweets.” Here a yummy, healthy snack costs as little as $2 (vegetarian soft-shell taco). Be sure to come back later and enjoy a full dinner, with options like prawn fajitas! Adding to the many pluses of this restaurant: the Gascas use only non-disposable tableware, a rarity among fast, casual dining spots. Bike tips: cycle on the bike path away from the Fisherman’s Wharf side (in the direction of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, but you won’t go nearly that far). Stay on the path until you reach Hoffman Street (Hoffman is just after Trailside Cafe on your left, and Bay Bikes on your right). After turning left on Hoffman, go up the slight hill (if cycling with children, perhaps walk bikes along the sidewalk) to Lighthouse Avenue. Turn left, but don’t go out onto the street as the taqueria is this side of Lighthouse anyway. Just walk your bikes along the sidewalk the remaining distance. (Landmark for your turn: Book Buyers is on your right at Hoffman & Lighthouse). Taqueria del Mar will be on your left, about mid-way down the block. Look for their brown-striped awning.
    113. Taste Cafe & Bistro, Pacific Grove – 15% (Alcohol excluded) – A cozy, elegant restaurant tucked quietly into PG’s Forest Hill. A European-influenced menu and Euro-style ambiance, all lovingly tended by Chef Bill Karaki and his wife, Sue Karaki. From its first award–as best-value newcomer–to the many awards and recommendations that have followed, Taste has a well-deserved popularity.  Bike tips:  Biking in Monterey, Pacific Grove, or Pebble Beach?  Taste Cafe & Bistro is a great destination for you!  (Also, Taste is a next-door neighbor to the Forest Hill Bike Shop. Stop in and say hi to custom builder Joseph Crabtree.)  Taste is easy to locate for cyclists!  Here are the straight-shot can’t-get-lost routes:  (1) Coming from the bike path on Monterey’s Cannery Row:  Leave the bike path at Prescott Avenue (near the Cannery Row IMAX) and come straight up Prescott all the way to Taste, which is at the corner of Prescott and Forest.  Don’t want to bike up that hill?  Okay, coast back down after your meal!  Here’s an alternate for the trip up:  (2)  From the bike path at Cannery Row, you might continue along the path and pass Prescott and keep going…past the Aquarium…past Stanford’s Hopkins Marine Lab…and on to Lovers Point in Pacific Grove, where the off-road bike path ends.  Then, continue biking past Lover’s Point to Asilomar Avenue (in this stretch, you share the road with cars, and this is a signed bike route only; there is no marked bike lane). After Asilomar Avenue, a bike lane is re-established (still shares the road with cars). Continue to Asilomar State Beach.  At Asilomar Beach, the road curves left and heads uphill.  Continue on that road (Sunset Drive) all the way to Forest Ave.  Make a right on Forest Ave and continue to the traffic signal at Prescott.  Taste is at the corner of Forest and Prescott, directly on your left.
    114. Terry’s at the Cypress Inn, Carmel – 15% (Alcohol excluded) – Terry’s serves lunch and dinner, and a complete afternoon tea that is well suited to this historic landmark hotel owned by Doris Day and Dennis LeVett. (They also serve breakfast to guests of the Cypress Inn.) Enjoy afternoon tea in the “Day Room,” where Doris Day films may be viewed on request. Small plates are a dining favorite here, along with fine Monterey County wines. The Moroccan chicken tagine is especially celebrated by Monterey County Herald GO! food critic Melissa Snyder. Bike tips: Coming from elsewhere in the county? Use the MST bike-and-ride option to buses that go to Carmel Plaza. Then cycle down Ocean Avenue to Lincoln Avenue. Turn left (south) onto Lincoln, and go one block to the corner of Lincoln & 7th Avenue. Cypress Inn is on the left. From Terry’s, it’s a short bike ride to Carmel’s Scenic Drive above Carmel Beach. In the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Terry’s also enjoys ideal proximity to Carmel Village shops and art galleries.
    115. Toasties Café – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – 702 Lighthouse Avenue, Pacific Grove; 831/373-7543. Toasties Café is both a longtime locals’ favorite and a tourists’ treasured find. Toasties serves breakfast and lunch in their cozy dining rooms and outdoors on the brick patio. Breakfast favorites include benedicts, huevos rancheros, hash, omelettes, waffles, and much more. Most popular lunchtime items include hearts of Romaine salad, Philly steak sandwiches, California club sandwich, crab melt. Bike rack out front. Located near Caledonia Park, Toasties is a perfect meal stop for families with young children who are traveling by bike trailer and would enjoy stretching their limbs in the nearby park after mealtime. Toasties is next to the Pacific Grove Post Office, just a short ride from the bike path. Bike tips: Two route options, the second is for those who like to avoid a short hill and also prefer cycling residential streets to downtown PG’s Lighthouse Avenue. (1) Leave the bike path at Lover’s Point, then take 17th Street up to Lighthouse Avenue. Make a right on Lighthouse Avenue and continue to Congress. Toasties will be on your right, at Lighthouse and Congress. (2) To skip the short hill, and cycle in residential neighborhoods: from the bike path at Lover’s Point, take 17th Street up to Central. Make a right on Central, and continue to Caledonia Park, which is behind the Post Office. Make a left on Caledonia Avenue, then Toasties will be on your immediate right at Lighthouse and Congress (Caledonia becomes Congress at Lighthouse).
    116. Trailside Cafe, Monterey – 10% – Two dining rooms and a heated outdoor patio with a beautiful view of the bay. Breakfast favorites include Steinbeck Omelet and Santa Barbara Benedict; popular lunch items include Grilled Vegetable and Goat Cheese, Cafe Cheeseburger, Brown Derby Cobb, and much more. Espresso bar, bakery sweets, and signature beignets! Wireless internet, pet friendly, cash only. Bike tips: Directly on the Cannery Row bike path, the Trailside Cafe is ideally situated in a quieter stretch of the path, yet is conveniently located between the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf and Monterey Bay Aquarium. Coming from the Fisherman’s Wharf side, it is on your left-hand side, just before Bay Bikes and Hoffman Street.
    117. Turtle Bay Taqueria, Monterey – 15% (Alcohol excluded) A local’s favorite, and listed by Sunset magazine as one of the best taquerias in the West, the Fishwife’s Turtle Bay Taquerias are known for light, healthy food without compromising heartiness and flavor, and at reasonable prices. The Fishwife’s Turtle Bay Taquerias provide guests a direct view of the taco bars, where seafood, meats, and vegetables are grilled or charbroiled, and tacos prepared, as they watch. Other popular menu items include wraps, bowls, tostacos, enchiladas (mole or verde), salads, turtle brownies, and more. Traditional recipes from Southern Mexico and Belize. Dine in, on the outdoor patio, or order to go. Bike tips: from Wharf #2/Commercial Wharf, it’s a short distance to Turtle Bay. However, there are some one-way streets, so you will probably want to take a brief detour rather than have to walk your bikes part-way on the more direct route. Here’s how: leave bike path at Wharf #2 and cross Del Monte Avenue. You’ll be at the corner of Del Monte and Figueroa (La Casa Bodega is at that corner). Bike up Figueroa; at the next corner, which is Franklin Street, you’ll notice large building on right (Monterey Sports Center) and, on your left, you’ll see Monterey Federal Credit Union. Continue up Figueroa to Pearl Street (you’ll see Jacks Park to your right in this section). Make a right on Pearl and continue to Tyler Street. Make a right on Tyler and continue down to Bonifacio. Turtle Bay is on the far corner, on your right-hand side. There is a parking lot in front, with some outdoor tables too.
    118. Turtle Bay Taqueria, Seaside – 15% (Alcohol excluded) A local’s favorite, and listed by Sunset magazine as one of the best taquerias in the West, the Fishwife’s Turtle Bay Taquerias are known for light, healthy food without compromising heartiness and flavor, and at reasonable prices. The Fishwife’s Turtle Bay Taquerias provide guests a direct view of the taco bars, where seafood, meats, and vegetables are grilled or charbroiled, and tacos prepared, as they watch. Other popular menu items include wraps, bowls, tostacos, enchiladas (mole or verde), salads, turtle brownies, and more. Traditional recipes from Southern Mexico and Belize. Dine in, on the outdoor patio, or order to go. Bike tips: From the bike path at Roberts Lake, Turtle Bay-Seaside is only a 1.4 mile bike ride. From the bike path at Roberts Lake/Embassy Suites intersection, cross Del Monte Ave and go up Canyon Del Rey Blvd. Here are two options: (1) To go through residential neighborhoods, take Canyon Del Rey a short distance until you come to Sonoma. Make a LEFT on Sonoma, then a RIGHT onto Trinity. Continue on Trinity to Trinity Park; just after the park, Fishwife, and the adjacent Turtle Bay, will be on your left. Or, (2) Continue on Canyon Del Rey all the way to Fremont Blvd; you’ll see Walgreen’s your left, and you’ll also spot Safeway across Fremont Blvd, on your far right. Make a left onto this busy Fremont Blvd (wear high-visibility apparel and exercise extra caution). Several blocks down, on your left-hand side, you’ll see the sign for Turtle Bay and Fishwife on your left, at the corner of Fremont and Trinity (turn LEFT onto Trinity). Located in a friendly neighborhood where many local residents commute by bike.
    119. Wickets at Bernardus Lodge, Carmel Valley – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – Reservations recommended. Occasional property blackout dates may apply. Evidence option: bicycle pump or helmet. Chef Cal Stamenov and Wine Director Mark Jensen team up to create a unique dining experience at Bernardus Lodge that has earned renown far beyond Monterey County. At Wickets, they have created a casual European bistro setting, offering indoor and outdoor dining. Entrees include these and much more. For breakfast, Lobster Eggs Benedict, Wild Mushroom Omelette, and Raspberry New York Crumb Cake; at lunchtime, Kumamoto Oysters with Champagne Mignonette, Natural Angus Beef Hamburger, Grilled Local Asparagus, and Free-Range Chicken Breast; and for dinner, Lola Rossa Salad, Local Petrale Sole, Local Roasted Porcini, and Prime Flat-Iron Steak. Bike tips: First, when biking on Carmel Valley Road and other well-traveled roads throughout the county, remember to make use of high-visibility apparel and accessories. Second, don’t feel you have to do an all-or-nothing cycling day to enjoy Wickets! Consider the bike-and-ride options (see Tips for Tourists Bicycling Monterey). Take your bike on the MST bus, via hotel shuttle, or your own car’s bike rack part-way, then cycle the remaining distance. Here are three options: Option 1: Use the MST bike-and-ride option from anywhere in the county and take it to the mouth of Carmel Valley, at H’way 1 and Carmel Valley Road (get off at the Barnyard Shopping Village). Then, bike the remaining 9.5 miles to Bernardus, which will be on your left at the corner of Carmel Valley Road and Laureles Grade. Option 2: If cycling from Carmel-by-the-Sea, take the route via Rio Road, passing Carmel Mission, instead of cycling via Highway 1. When you reach Rio Road and Highway 1, cross over H’way 1 and continue to the Carmel Post Office. Make a left here, then make a right at the T-intersection. At the next T-intersection, make a left. Continue up to the light at Carmel Valley Road. Make a right. Then, continue along Carmel Valley Road for 9.5 miles to Bernardus, which will be on your left at the corner of Carmel Valley Road and Laureles Grade. Option 3: (This route is for fit cyclists, as Laureles Grade is steep.) Coming from Salinas, take Highway 68 toward Monterey / Laguna Seca. Turn left at Laureles Grade and continue for six miles. Turn left onto Carmel Valley Road and Bernardus Lodge is on the immediate left. Voila! Enjoy Wickets!
    120. Wild Plum Cafe & Bakery, Monterey – 10% Chef/proprietress Pamela Burns oversees every detail of this popular cafe and bakery, and her Wild Plum also has a well-earned reputation for some of the finest catering throughout Monterey County. It’s easy to taste why. Breakfasts and lunches are exceptionally flavorful, prepared with as many organically grown ingredients as possible. The bakery is one of the few on-site bakeries in the county, producing yummy rustic American baked goods. Bike tips: located about four blocks from the bike path in downtown Monterey, across from the historic Casa Munras hotel, about a block and a half from the MST plaza (bike-and-ride option). Direx tip: Munras becomes Abrego at Eldorado; and Abrego becomes Washington at Pearl. If you’re confused about our streets, it’s not you, it’s Old Monterey! Situated on a side street, the Wild Plum is a not-to-be-missed local’s favorite! Eat hearty, enjoy another bike ride—or bike with children over to the nearby Dennis the Menace Park—then come back for more!
    121. Will’s Fargo Dining House & Saloon, Carmel Valley Village – 10% (Alcohol excluded) – Reservations recommended; phone 831/659-2774. Occasional property blackout dates may apply. Evidence option: bicycle pump or helmet. Will’s Fargo melds the atmosphere of the tearoom that originally occupied the site in the late 1920s with that of the casual saloon and steakhouse that opened in 1959. Since 2002, when Will’s Fargo was purchased by Bernardus founder Ben Pon, Will’s Fargo Dining House and Saloon has become even more renowned for its delectable food and outstanding service. The wealth of menu choices appeals to a wide variety of tastes, with a focus on local sources for organically grown vegetables, naturally raised meats, and fresh-caught seafood. Under Chef Cal Stamenov’s inspired direction, you are sure to leave satisfied. Dine indoors or out, in sunny Carmel Valley. Bike tips: First, when biking on Carmel Valley Road and other well-traveled roads throughout the county, remember to make use of high-visibility apparel and accessories. Second, don’t feel you have to do an all-or-nothing cycling day to enjoy biking to Will’s Fargo in sunny Carmel Valley! Consider the bike-and-ride options (see Tips for Tourists Bicycling Monterey). Take your bike on the MST bus, via hotel shuttle, or your own car’s bike rack part-way, then cycle the remaining distance. Here are three options: Option 1: Use the MST bike-and-ride option from anywhere in the county and take it to the mouth of Carmel Valley, at H’way 1 and Carmel Valley Road (get off at the Barnyard Shopping Village). Then, bike the remaining 9.5 miles to Bernardus, which will be on your left at the corner of Carmel Valley Road and Laureles Grade. From there, continue another two miles to Carmel Valley Village. Will’s Fargo will be on your right; watch for Camino del Fino on your left, then El Caminito on your right. Then pass the Chevron station, and Will’s Fargo will be right there, just behind the stone wall. Option 2: If cycling from Carmel-by-the-Sea, take the route via Rio Road, passing Carmel Mission, instead of cycling via Highway 1. When you reach Rio Road and Highway 1, cross over H’way 1 and continue to the Carmel Post Office. Make a left here, then make a right at the T-intersection. At the next T-intersection, make a left. Continue up to the light at Carmel Valley Road. Make a right. Then, continue along Carmel Valley Road for 9.5 miles to Bernardus, which will be on your left at the corner of Carmel Valley Road and Laureles Grade. Once there, you have another two miles to cycle to Will’s Fargo; just continue another two miles to Carmel Valley Village. Will’s Fargo will be on your right; watch for Camino del Fino on your left, then El Caminito on your right. Then pass the Chevron station, and Will’s Fargo will be right there, just behind the stone wall. Option 3: (This route is for fit cyclists, as Laureles Grade is steep.) Coming from Salinas, take Highway 68 toward Monterey / Laguna Seca. Turn left at Laureles Grade and continue for six miles. Turn left onto Carmel Valley Road and Bernardus Lodge is on the immediate left. From there, continue cycling two more miles until you reach Carmel Valley Village. Will’s Fargo will be on your right; watch for Camino del Fino on your left, then El Caminito on your right. Then pass the Chevron station, and Will’s Fargo will be right there, just behind the stone wall.
    122. Yangtse’s Taste of Thai, Salinas – 10% (Alcohol excluded) Eurasian Thai with roots in Yangtse’s childhood of southern China. Try traditional Thai favorites or something completely new, just count on the food to be consistently delicious! House specialties include Seafood Thaitanic and Grandma’s Secret Duck. Warm, caring service. Bike tips: Located directly on Main Street, 3/10 of a mile from the National Steinbeck Center. Cyclists from the San Francisco Bay area can bring their bikes to Oldtown Salinas via Amtrak train. Tourists and local residents coming from the Monterey Peninsula may want to transport their bikes to Salinas on the Monterey-Salinas Transit bus, then cycle around Oldtown Salinas. Note that Yangtse’s Taste of Thai is close to the Monterey-Salinas Transit plaza.

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    Note: A few individual venues allow a cyclist to carry in either their bicycle pump or their bicycle helmet as evidence they are cycling. That option will be noted in their individual listing.

    Stay in touch

    This a long-term project with no scheduled end-date, and there will be additional businesses and organizations joining in all the time.   To learn who they are, check back here and/or:

    Thank you for bicycling in Monterey County!

Last published on June 25, 2010.

Update August 7, 2012 with one change only:  CLOSED spots noted.

This post was published on 25 June 2010. One or more changes last made to this post on 1 April 2014.

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