28 BEST OF MONTEREY COUNTY® 2026 montereycountynow.com/bestof Arts & Entertainment were Tom Thumb, whose size was due to dwarfism, the Bearded Lady, conjoined twins and a man suffering from microcephaly. Known at the time as “freaks,” they would be welcomed by members of Gen Z, a generation noted for its inclusive nature. This emphasis on diversity—and of valuing socializing and experiences over an alcoholic bender—brings them to Other Brother. Not only does the brewpub serve a range of beers, there are ciders, slushies and non-alcoholic options. Other Brother also hosts trivia, bingo and other fun gatherings—which makes it an enjoyable spot for locals to hang out and share a moment. There is something for everyone here. BEST DRINK WITH A VIEW Monterey Beach Hotel 2600 Sand Dunes Drive, Monterey (831) 394-3321, montereybeach.com “Under the stars” refers both to a circus performed without a tent and also Monterey County’s preferred way to enjoy a beverage. While there is plenty of local competition for outdoor imbibing, readers have chosen Monterey Beach Hotel as the top spot. Visit and the reason is immediately obvious. The beach, the crashing waves—it’s all right in front of you. And there are firepits outside, where staff will bring drinks to you (seasonally). Let’s just say the hotel is aptly named and the readers have voted wisely. BEST PLACE FOR DAY-DRINKING Dust Bowl Brewing Co. 290 Figueroa St., Monterey (831) 641-7002, dustbowlbrewing.com The traveling circus predated the Dust Bowl, when traveling in search of something better became a norm for millions of Americans. Luckily, we’ve found that better place, and it is right here at the inviting communal picnic table seating on the patio of Dust Bowl Brewing Company. With 24 taps offering a rotation of this brewery’s crisp, easy-drinking beers, the menu is full of crowd-pleasers (plus, there is a permanent food truck on site). The patio overlooks the Monterey Bay Recreation Trail, which can be a real sideshow, making for some fun people-watching during the day. BEST BAR FOR DARTS The Otter’s Den 3166 Vista Del Camino Circle, Marina (831) 883-1227, bar831.com Many people will never have the chance to take part in a high-thrill act like the Wheel of Death, but adventure seekers can surely enjoy a less deadly game like darts. Here in Monterey County, the Great Throwdini and bar-hoppers alike can enjoy a friendly game of darts at The Otter’s Den, Marina’s go-to spot for great drinks, good vibes and so much more. Visitors are welcome to bring in takeout from local eateries, all while also enjoying a great spot for MLB Extra and NFL Sunday games. BEST HAPPY HOUR BEST SPECIALTY COCKTAILS Hula’s Island Grill 622 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey (831) 655-4852, hulastiki.com Perhaps not entirely by accident, but the golden era of the circus—think peak Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey—also coincided with one of the darkest eras of U.S. history: Prohibition. Luckily, it’s 2026. Alcohol isn’t illegal, and drinking is encouraged roughly during the hours of 4-6pm, every day at Hula’s with their unbeatable Happy Hour. They make classic tiki drinks—like your Mai Tais, Zombies and Pain Killers— with punchy fresh juices, so it really is a mini-vacation. Feeling a double? Hula’s doesn’t even ask, and they have both prices on the menu. BEST PUB Crown & Anchor 150 W. Franklin St., Monterey (831) 649-6496, crownandanchor.net Crown & Anchor has all the qualities of a good British pub, including a welcoming atmosphere, plenty of brews on tap, cocktails for those who don’t imbibe beer, eye-catching objects on the wall and a menu that suits all of the above. With a traditional bar, outdoor patio, friendly staff and a rotating cast of congenial regulars, after one visit you’ll understand what they mean when they say, “You will be a stranger here but once.” BEST DIVE BAR Alfredo’s Cantina 266 Pearl St., Monterey (831) 238-3082 Some days, we need a drink. For circus performers, they might need to quench their thirst after breathing fire. (For some of us, if we’re being honest, it’s just been one of those days, no circus tricks involved.) Wherever you are coming from, Alfredo’s is a no-pretense dive bar with dim lighting that immediately soothes you. Cozy booth Best Bar for Millennials, Best Selection of Craft Beer | Alvarado Street Brewery
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjAzNjQ1NQ==