Star Market
1275 S. Main St., Salinas (831) 422-3961, starmkt.com
Someone smugly places a glass of the best red you’ll ever have in your life in front of you. Much better than your Lambrusco. Too bad, so sad, he says: This bottle is so special you’ll never be able to find one like it. That’s where Victor Kong, managing partner and Wine & Liquor Department manager of this South Salinas stronghold, comes in. For 39 years, Kong has curated the county’s top wine collection with bottles from around the world, and with 90 percent of the wines made in Monterey County. Special orders? They don’t upset him. He’s like a detective about it, and thrills in the hunt. So tell smug boy to stuff it, and put Kong on the case. He will get you something delicious, guaranteed.