Carmel Magazine

084-88 Carmel Valley_152-161 Garcia story 4/26/13 10:43 AM Page 4 include live music and art showings. evenings, Baja features the best local musicians tus as a haven for artists, it's only natural that Where there's wine, there's food. Carmel performing on its outdoor deck. In the Village, many would migrate a few miles east, finding Valley dining establishments cater to every taste Plaza Linda offers live music several nights each inspiration in the Valley's climate—both meteor- and budget, from the rustic, saloon-like Running week. Both establishments are family-friendly. ological and artistic. Shelley and John Aliotti run Iron and the tempting Mexican food of Taqueria Del Valle, across the street at White Oak Plaza. The ever-popular Café Rustica, locals' favorite Wills Fargo and the Mexican cuisine of Plaza Linda have been pleasing palates for decades. Renowned chefs Cal Stamenov at Marinus at Bernardus Lodge and Tim Wood at the Lodge A day trip to Carmel Valley can be a great way to get a taste of what the area has to offer. Restaurant at Carmel Valley Ranch offer culinary the Carmel Valley Art Association and maintain a bright, sunny and approachable gallery in the heart of the Village. More than 40 member artists are represented here, including nationally known artists such as cowboy artist Jack N. Swanson and whimsical painter Will Bullas. "This is the friendliest gallery around," says Bullas. And it's made more so by the fact that each member masterpieces that wow even the most discrimi- A more high-brow form of musical entertain- spends one day a month working in the gallery. nating diners. And of course, they are masters of ment can be found at Hidden Valley Music "Visitors can actually meet and speak with the pairing their food with the wines produced here. Seminars, near Carmel Valley Village. Classical artist whose work is on the wall," says Shelley If your idea of dining also includes a bit of recitals by master-class students occur regularly Aliotti. "People are surprised and delighted." dancing, there are a couple of establishments in addition to occasional jazz performances. The The Valley offers plenty of shopping opportu- that offer live music to help burn off a few calo- venue is intimate and on warm evenings, a wall nities as well. But don't expect mall-type chain ries. Baja Cantina, in the Valley Hills Center three of the auditorium can be opened to the night stores. Selections are much more esoteric and miles from Highway 1, serves up hearty south- air to enable the enjoyment of listening to music exotic. Offerings range from vintage clothing to of-the-border under the stars. fly fishing accessories; consignment furniture to fare and award winning Margaritas. On the Valley's balmy summer Given Carmel-by-the-Sea's longstanding sta- organic produce; olive oil to lighting fixtures. In In the span of three decades, the wine business has redefined the character of Carmel Valley. Today, around 20 tasting rooms are open up and down the Valley, offering splendid local vintages—with more on the way. C ARMEL MAGAZINE•SPRING/SUMMER 2013 87

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