The Wharf Marketplace
290 Figueroa St., Monterey
(831) 649-1116 www.thewharfmarketplace.com
When the fragrant salt air coming off the harbor inspires an appetite for delicacies from the deep, many are faced with a common conundrum: not enough duckets. Enter The Wharf Marketplace, where the savvy gastronome can scoop up some melty panini, tasty Acme coffee, fresh local produce or house-squeezed juices for darn reasonable prices. Or try this: Grab a fresh-steamed crab, already cracked and cleaned, then scoot over to the outstanding wine section and choose among several standout local whites, many priced below $20. Head to the wine bar for glasses, the deli for plates and napkins, find a table outside and feast like a king. At about $20 each for two people, you’ll feel like there is such a thing as a luxurious lunch, like you’re having your crab and eating it too.