www.montereycountynow.com OCTOBER 16-22, 2025 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 45 CHILL Before martinis became playthings, dolled up with espresso, Dubai chocolate and the like, the cocktail spoke of elegance. The stemware, the shimmering pool of gin—this was the choice for the finest of dining. That tradition is not lost on the team at Seventh & Dolores. The 7D Bespoke Martini is an expression of refinement and dignity. The cocktail is presented with a skewer of grilled steak slices and a blini topped with caviar on the side, all on a silver platter. It becomes an experience—husky yet delicate beef draping the palate with its juices, the burst of earthy salinity from the caviar, the rich creaminess of bleu cheese stuffed in an olive, blanketing its inviting funk. Yet the accoutrements cannot distract from the fact that this is one fine martini. With Nolet’s gin and vermouth, the sensation is of soft herbs resting in the shade of pine trees. Olive oil floated on top provides a grassy bite that complements the drink nicely, as well as lending an opulence to each sip. Dirty martinis are even more coarse by comparison. This is a well-considered presentation throughout—although there is a caveat. The Bespoke Martini requires more than a quick shake with ice. On busy evenings, when bartenders have no minutes to spare, it may be pulled from the menu. But that’s no matter. The restaurant’s espresso martini is good, as well. Seventh & Dolores, 7th and Dolores, Carmel. (831) 293-7600, 7dsteakhouse.com. Live Well Seventh & Dolores gives the martini its due, with tray service and more. By Dave Faries SEND IDEAS TO: chill@montereycountynow.com DAVE FARIES THIN CRUST PIZZA SALADS & CALZONES TAKE-OUT TODAY SOURDOUGH PIZZA SEASIDE’S FINEST 720 BROADWAY AVE. SEASIDE PASTA & SUBS BEER ON TAP DESSERTS EAST COAST PIZZAS NY style, thin crust w/ butter & garlic. 14” has 6 slices. 18” has 8 slices. WEST COAST PIZZAS SF sourdough crust w/ garlic olive oil. 14” has 6 slices. 18” has 8 slices. STUFFED CALZONES Made from pizza dough, stuffed w/pizza sauce, garlic, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of basil. (Onions upon request). 831-899-1762 DELIVERY AVAILABLE DINE-IN TOO FRESH. LOCAL. TASTY. Fisherman’s Wharf FRESHEST SEAFOOD with PANORAMIC VIEWS Open Daily at 11:30am • At the end of Fisherman’s Wharf #1 www.rockfishmonterey.com • 831.324.4375 622 LIGHTHOUSE AVE. MONTEREY. @HULASTIKI • (831) 655-HULA (4852) the original WOODYSMONTEREYAIRPORT.COM WOODY DON'T KNOW PILGRIMS WOODY KNOWS RESERVATIONS DON'T GET CAUGHT IN THE WOODS, BOOK YOUR RESERVATION AT WOODY'S! $54 ~ Apple Cider Brined Turkey Chef Tim's Famous Baked Brioche Stuffing Double butter whipped potatoes, cranberry sauce, pie, and more! MONTEREY REGIONAL AIRPORT 200 FRED KANE DRIVE MONTEREY 831-373-1232 OPEN 9AM-9PM EVERY DAY CARMEL VALLEY ATHLETIC CLUB 27300 RANCHO SAN CARLOS RD CARMEL (831) 624-2737 OPEN WED-SUN LUNCH AND DINNER DEL MESA CARMEL 500 DEL MESA CARMEL CARMEL VALLEY 831-624-1854 OPEN WED-SUN LUNCH AND DINNER
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