Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

400 Cannery Row, Monterey

646-1706

www.montereyplazahotel.com/hotel-dining.html

An elegant descent into the lobby of the Monterey Plaza Hotel leads the way to Schooners, easily the best place to take in the Monterey Bay and all its glory. Visit on a Friday for a hell of a deal: $5 fish and chips and another $5 for 23-ounces of Big Sur English Ale to put the view into frothy perspective. Weekends can get lively in the bar, too lively for wine, but just right for beer or margaritas. Tempting (and affordable) food and drink combos adorn the bar menu most days of the week. If you want a bit of quiet with the best view, get a table in the freshly redone dining area.