The Blue Fin is one of those brick edged former warehouse spaces which give Cannery Row its signature style, and is one of the best places to knock some balls around the felt. The food here centers on typical bar fare such as pizza, hot wings and burgers, but there can be some rather tasty fresh fish offerings as well. There is also a modest stage and sound system, and when bands are playing the space makes a quite neat crossover to a hip nightclub. Check the website for event listings.

This popular jazz and blues club brings in masses of locals for the live music and excellent food. The place is always crowded, with people filling up the mahogany chairs to gorge on the plates of delicious seafood and steak or the good sandwiches. There is a great ocean view, and the stained glass windows give it an historic look. Bands play every night. The place has a wide variety of specials, from Monday Night Football deals to jam nights to private parties. One of the most popular spots on Cannery Row, it also has dynamite service.

This huge nightclub offers a variety of events. Stand-up comedy takes place on weekend evenings, before the place opens up for the late-night dance crowd. Sunday is Salsa night, and Wednesday is "Pachanga Night." The typical subdued purple and black nightclub interior makes a great backdrop for every event. See website for calendar, reservations and more.

The Forge in the Forest Restaurant is a romantic place to go to for its 'old charm' atmosphere. The garden patio seating is beautiful and warm with heaters, fireplaces and classy bricked decor. The food is a bit pricey but the decor and the wine bar make up for it. The brick fire pits, copper walls and lush landscaping just add to the enticing feel. Also don't miss the desserts which are the best feature of The Forge in the Forest Restaurant. An added benefit is that it even has a menu for your four legged buddy! Yes, they love dogs and it shows. Gates open at 11:30a daily.

Savor a taste of European style flair at the Taste Cafe & Bistro. This warm and attractive eatery is perfect for an intimate meal. Live jazz performances from Thursday to Saturday just add to the already charming atmosphere. This award-winning restaurant satisfies the gourmand in you with offerings like grilled eggplant Napoleon, herb roasted chicken, freshly prepared sausages and more. Watch Bill Karaki, the owner and chef, in action as he prepares your dishes. A selection from the extensive bar and wine list helps you round up your meal. Don't forget to try the delicious desserts especially the hot favorite-the brioche bread pudding. Yum!

Pull up a chair or a stool, as the case may be, and settle down to enjoy fresh-baked bread, yummy cookies and steaming cups of coffee at this friendly, informal bakery. Lunchtime visitors can either order a sandwich from the menu or come up with their own recipe from the list of meats, cheeses, and condiments. This is no ordinary deli counter, either. The choices include pesto, grilled onions and Jarlsberg cheese. The decor is adorable within and without, with bright murals and baskets of flowers accenting the airy dining room and the shaded outdoor patio.

California-inspired snacks and salads are served at this nautically inspired eatery in the Monterey Plaza Hotel. Start with Dungeness Crab Cakes or Schooners' Wings. Light eaters can opt for a fruit boat or a seafood salad. Heartier dishes include a Dill-Broiled Seabass BLT or, for vegetarians, a Portabella Sandwich. In addition to a respectable wine list, the restaurant boasts a great selection of scotches and bourbons. Approximately a half-dozen beers are on tap. With its brass fixtures and sail ceiling, the decor is very conducive to long bouts of grog-drinking.

The Kula Ranch Island Steakhouse is a high-end destination to quell the craving for steaks and sushi. The restaurant is located inside a resort by the Monterey bay. Serving delicious and filling meals consisting of Ahi Tuna Tartar, Kula Pot Stickers, Certified Angus NY Steak, Mauka Skirt Steak and Big Island Fish Tacos, the restaurant provides a great ambience to enjoy the food. Watch the sun go down while savoring the tasteful Sunset Platter served for USD12. The dramatic venue offers a spectacular view of the waters and its solitude make it the perfect place for an enjoyable intimate meal.

Secluded in the scenic environs of Big Sur, the Restaurant at Ventana is a quiet and peaceful haven serving Californian delights. Drive through the forests and atop the mountain to reach this paradise. The menu comprises of Alaskan Rock Crab, Wild Aragula Caesar, Oregon Bay Shrimp Risotto and Butternut Squash Ravioli. The garden at the door is a pleasant welcome and immediately uplifts the mood. The courteous staff help in choosing the dishes and provide a great experience. there is a fireplace indoor for the summer months. Try the wine selection at the bar for a few good labels.

Following in the footsteps of El Palomar in Santa Cruz, the Espinoza family established Cilantros in 1990, to bring to Watsonville tantalizing flavors of Mexican cuisine. The menu features tantalizing varieties of fajitas, tacos, salads, enchiladas, quesadillas ceviche and nachos. Popular favorites of patrons are the specialties of the place: Chile Colorado, Enchiladas Suizas and Chile Verde. End your meal on a sweet note with house special ice creams. They also offer a special fare of vegetarian preparations made in the authentic Mexican flair. Visit Cilantros for a delectable Mexican Champagne Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, till 3p.