by Don Weberg

There is a magic to Monterey. Be it the cool ocean breezes gently blowing the fog off the coastline during the early morning or the warm sun burning off the overcast sky during the later parts of the afternoon allowing people to shed their coats in favor of lighter apparel, a sense is always in the air that things are just better in Monterey. The sense is from more than just weather, it's in mom-ents that, as a whole, make a day. A dozen or so little moments of clarity in a world of chaos make Monterey the town that it is.

Monterey is still a small town, despite a growing traffic concern over the past decade, basically a quaint, seaside village similar to the likes seen in certain Alfred Hitchcock or John Carpenter films. Without all the sci-fi scary stuff, and only a touch of eeriness usually associated to the overcast skies, fog, and slower pace than the big cities. Often, Monterey has been referred to as a mini San Francisco, with it's intertwining maze of downtown streets, historic buildings marking original settlements, and fisherman's wharf where clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl is a must have. The streets lining the business district are home to a gaggle of interesting, very personable proprietors vending jewelry, coffee, food, cooking utensils, camera gear, and personal services such as travel and legal help. With its lack of overtly bustling streets, Monterey is a trip back in time, with only the occasional Starbucks sighting reminding you that it's the New Millenium.

There are so many places to see in Monterey that a trip there can be a hassle of decisions. The trick is to plan accordingly, or, not plan at all. The former style will ensure a great trip, while the latter is certain to lend a hundred surprises. Whichever style you pre-scribe to, there are some places that you must check out.

The town is packed with restaurants, each one offering some kind of unique all its own. There are British pubs, California cafes, French-inspired coffee houses, and everything in between to satisfy not only the palate, but the senses. In particular, two cafes stood out on this trip, Francisco's Restaurant and Rosine's. Both places offer magnificent food, good prices, and tremendous service, but each has a distinct attitude. Francisco's atmosphere is that of a chic bistro with a slight Southwestern flair merging with an Asian influence. The back wall is made of glass allowing for a view of a visually enchanting zenish water garden complete with bronze sun and seemingly exotic plants. The overall effect is something from an Edward Hopper painting, a feeling of being very alone despite the possibility of being surrounded by staff and other guests. It's romantic and a definite spot to unwind with a special someone. The menu is as eclectic as the ambiance, serving teriyaki chicken, Monterey snapper, linguini marinara, English fish and chips, enchiladas, salads, and burgers. (CONTINUED...)