Passionfish
701 Lighthouse Ave., Pacific Grove(831) 655-3311, passionfish.net
The kitchen at this longtime destination restaurant serves cushion-soft scallops, flaky rainbow trout, seafood that still hints of saltwater – and they do so with a commitment to sustainability that is as admirable as the cooking. But just when you think Passionfish is only about fish, they offer a rustic 12-hour lamb that dissolves with a touch of the fork, or black bean and goat cheese fritters so earthy and rich you may want another round of appetizers. The place is comfortable, with no sense of hurry. That it seems to always win the readers’ hearts – like, no duh.