burgers ~ steaks ~ barbecue
Central Texan Barbecue
Serving some of the best oak-smoked brisket, sausage, chicken, and ribs this side of the Lone Star State, the Central Texan Barbecue is well worth the short drive to Castroville. 10500 Merritt, Castroville, 633-2285.
Cellar Door Chop Shop
As the name implies, the watchword at this new California-style eatery is meat slow-braised, juicy, roasted and grilled. Try the rotisserie chicken with wildflower honey with a fine local wine. 663 Lighthouse Ave., Pacific Grove, 372-3930.
Curly’s BBQ
The Weekly staff loves neighbor Curly’s tangy ribs, pork sandwiches and succulent barbecued chicken, not to mention the outstanding coleslaw. 1107 Fremont Blvd., Seaside, 394-7274.
Kurt Grasing’s Carmel Chop House
Prime beef and chops grilled over spiced almond and oak wood star at this popular destination, where white tablecloths meet oysters and onion rings. Fifth and San Carlos, Carmel, 625-1199.
RG Burgers
“Gourmet hamburger” isn’t a contradiction here, where the Real Good burgers come in Western barbecue, Mediterranean, or even béarnaise/mushroom styles. RG also serves turkey and falafel burgers. 201 Crossroads Blvd., Carmel, 626-8054.
Running Iron Restaurant and Saloon
Steaks and country-style fare are served up in the casual atmosphere of a neighborhood restaurant. In this case, the neighborhood is Carmel Valley, so look for lots of cowboy memorabilia in this restaurant where longtime ranchers mingle with local vintners. 24 E. Carmel Valley Rd., Carmel Valley Village, 659-4633.
Will’s Fargo Dining House and Saloon
Will’s Fargo has been one of this area’s most popular and enduring steakhouses for four decades and recently got a highly successful makeover. Whether you select your own cut from Will’s generous sampling of choice aged beef or go with the lamb chops, you can be assured of a meal grilled to perfection. 14 W. Carmel Valley Rd., Carmel Valley Village, 659-2774.
