Phoebe Hearst Social Hall
Asilomar Conference Grounds,
800 Asilomar Ave., Pacific Grove
372-8016, www.visitasilomar.com
Combine a roaring fireplace, a piano, pool tables and classic coastal scenery into a cozy setting. It feels like a swanky exclusive club, but it’s in the lobby of the Asilomar Conference Grounds, a state park - meaning it’s open to all. Surprisingly high-quality nibbles, including a cheese plate from the adjacent Phoebe’s Cafe, along with local wines like Estancia Pinot grigio, English Ales draft beers and cocktails. If the weather’s cooperative, there’s a grand outdoor deck facing the ocean, but the fireplace is so enticing you might opt inside even on a nice day.