44 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY JANUARY 22-28, 2026 www.montereycountynow.com CHILL When a smoothie bears the name Schwarzenegger, it implies something. No, not the tired minion who fronted for party headquarters against Prop. 50, but Ah-nold—the ripped action figure of movies past. A full 20 grams of whey protein bulk up the concoction from Perfectly Pressed, which is within the recommended range—15-30—of what a normal body can take in one sitting. But this is the Terminator, so other ingredients tack on a few more. Of course, most Americans get more than enough protein every day, or so say actual scientists. And the body cannot store more of the nutrient than is necessary. The restraint, in this case, is welcome for those who consider the smoothie a meal, especially since the mix includes fruits, grain and greens. Schwarzenegger also brings flavor. Impressions of banana and strawberry come to the fore, fresh and light. A hollow bitter note from spinach offsets the natural sweetness, while the addition of oats lends a malty calm. Almost hidden in this is a sensation reminiscent of white chocolate-dipped strawberries, although it is elusive, tucked under the vegetal bite. Despite the layers of flavor and the thickening properties of the oats, the drink remains frothy, almost feeling light. If Schwarzenegger is not your style—maybe you only remember him as governor—no matter. Perfectly Pressed also offers The Hulk, with an equal protein punch. Perfectly Pressed has locations in Monterey, Carmel and Salinas. perfectlypressedjuice. com. He’s Back Perfectly Pressed blends a protein smoothie with a familiar name and good flavor. By Dave Faries SEND IDEAS TO: chill@montereycountynow.com DAVE FARIES INDOOR AND OUTDOOR DINING AND TAKEOUT Eat + Drink Monterey’s MOST Recommended Pizzeria Open at 4pm Mon-Thurs • Open at 3pm Fri Open at 12pm Sat.& Sun. 725 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey giannispizzamonterey.com 831-649-1500 BEST PIZZA ’98-’24 BEST PIZZA PLACE ’25 57 Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey 831-373-1851 www.abalonetti.com ’25 LUNCH & DINNER SERVED DAILY from 11:30am-8:30pm Monterey County’s Best Calamari OPEN EVERYDAY for DINNER at 4:30pm Offering all your favorites plus wine, cocktails, bottle and draft beers. Now Serving Snake River Farms’ American Wagyu Prime Rib. 763 Wave St., Monterey | 831.373.3778 | thewhalingstation.com ’25 Best Steak Indoor and Outdoor Dining on the Dog Friendly Patio Tapas (Happy) Hour 4:30–6pm Nightly Saturday & Sunday Brunch 9am–1:30pm 700 Munras Ave., Monterey | 831-375-0176 | estebanrestaurant.com ’25 Best Appetizers/ Small Plates ’25 BEST RESTAURANT IN MONTEREY COUNTY! JOIN US NIGHTLY FOR DINNER AT 4:30PM TWO HAPPY HOURS DAILY 4:30-6PM & 8-9PM 3-Course Early Menu, $49, 4:30-6pm Daily Call or go to sardinefactory.com for details, reservations. 701 Wave Street, Monterey, 831-373-3775 BEACH HOUSE RESTAURANT + BAR @ LOVERS POINT ★ CASUAL CALIFORNIA DINING INDOOR & PATIO DAILY AT 4:30PM 620 OCEAN VIEW BLVD. PACIFIC GROVE 831-375-2345 • BEACHHOUSEPG.COM LOVERS POINT BEACH CAFE OPEN DAILY, 9AM–4PM ’24 Best Restaurant in Pacific Grove Wood Fired Pizzas, Burgers, Pasta, salads, sandWiches and more 11:30am mon-Fri, 10am Sat & Sun melvilletav.com 484 Washington St., Downtown Monterey 831.643.9525 haPPY hour Food & drinK sPecials Sun-Thurs 4-6pm WEEKEND BRUNCH WITH BOTTOMLESS MIMOSAS Fisherman’s Wharf’s Newest Restaurant Serving Fresh Seafood, Pasta, Steaks, Sandwiches Open Daily at 11:30am Great views at the end of the Wharf #1 www.rockfishmonterey.com • 831.324.4375 Ole! Learn the art of Flamenco with local teacher Jessica Iglesias, bringing Spanish dance to the community for 15 years. New Flamenco Classes Starting in February! Beginners Encouraged. Call or text for class schedule 831-383-2663 myazaharflamenco@gmail.com All levels welcome Classes held in Marina
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