Whaling Station Steakhouse
763 Wave St., Monterey (831) 373-3778, whalingstation.com
It’s all prime – that’s as in USDA prime, with enough creamy marbling that melts a rugged, opulent flavor into those thick slabs of beef. And they are justifiably proud of their selection of cuts, showing them off tableside so guests can choose. In addition to steaks (and non-red meat items), they are the only place around to sample a cushy and truly prime prime rib. And they take the care to prepare classic beef Wellington, too. When you hear someone at another table moan with pleasure, you can just tell the server, “I’ll have what she’s having.”