54 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® 2024-2025 BIG SUR Bars Big Sur River Inn Dip your feet in the river in one of those Adirondack chairs, post up on the outdoor deck or at the cozy bar inside. A tradition of Sunday music brings bands down to the river all summer long to serenade listeners. 46800 Highway 1, Big Sur. (831) 667-2700, bigsurriverinn.com Big Sur Taphouse Part sports bar, with its game-friendly big screens, part neighborhood pub, part resting spot along the PCH, Big Sur Taphouse is just a good spot to hang out for a while—indoors or on the big back patio. It’s also a true locals’ gathering place. 47520 Highway 1, Big Sur. (831) 667-2197, bigsurtaphouse.com Fernwood Tavern Fernwood draws an eclectic crowd. Locals, campers, travelers and artists all comfortably come together. There aren’t many places better for live music in the area. Or just grab a local draft beer and sip on the peaceful deck in the redwoods. 47200 Highway 1, Big Sur. (831) 667-2422, fernwoodbigsur.com CARMEL Bars Bar Napoli There’s a solid wine list and classic cocktails. But picking from the specialty cocktail list is the right move. These clever creations waver on a tightrope as your palate copes with the swirl of distractions, portents and comforts layered into each flavor profile. Dolores and 7th, Carmel. (831) 626-7373 Barmel Barmel keeps its slogan simple: Cocktails, food, music. Any of the three could be listed first, but craft cocktails and fine spirits do qualify for the top spot. Always a popular place, Barmel also has a cool lounge vibe. San Carlos and Ocean, Carmel. (831) 626-2095, barmel.com Brophy’s Tavern There’s a lot more to recommend this place than just a beer and burger: an expansive “upscale tavern” menu, cool service crew, a lively atmosphere and a bunch of flat-screen TVs. 4th and San Carlos, Carmel. (831) 5865566, brophystavern.com Bud’s at La Playa The renovated Bud’s is known for two things, one old and one new. The new is a list of Not too many years ago, there were just a couple of places with a mixology-driven cocktail list, and only two local craft breweries. Now it’s easy to find clever specialty cocktails prepared by standout bartenders. For beer aficionados, there are close to 10 brewpubs, as well as local cider, a seltzer bar and one dedicated to the finest whiskey. So there’s a growing sophistication to area nightlife (and day drinking). Yet there remain cozy dives, beer joints—even an arcade serving beers and non-alcoholic drinks in cans. Many venues offer outdoor seating or large windows where you can gaze at some pretty stunning scenery while you sip. DRINKS Hula’s Island Grill
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjAzNjQ1NQ==