RETURN OF THE CRABS… Crab season has officially begun. The season was delayed to protect the lingering whale populations in the area, but conditions have changed – for more, see story at mcweekly.com/food_wine. Local crab should now be available at all your favorite seafood locations.

DELI DRIVE-THRU… Temple Beth El’s 68th annual Kosher-style lunch event takes place Thursday-Friday, Feb. 8-9. Pick up a deli pack with all the essentials for a lunch of about four servings. Each pack ($39) contains a pound of pastrami or corned beef, a loaf of rye bread, pickles, salad and chocolate cake. Yes, they bring in the goods from the East Coast. Order in advance to pick up in Salinas (at Temple Beth El, 1212 Riker St.) or Monterey (at First Presbyterian Church, 501 El Dorado St.). 424-9151, templebethelsalinas.org.

SWEET SIXTEEN… Coffee Mia is celebrating 16 years in operation with a “Sweet Sixteen”-themed soiree from 10am to 2pm on Sunday, Jan. 28. There will be celebratory cake and coffee, and giveaways throughout the day at this locals’ gathering place. 250 Reservation Road, Marina. 384-0148, cafemiabrewbarandbistro.com.

NATIONAL CROISSANT DAY… Tuesday, Jan. 30 is National Croissant Day. This sounds like a delicious excuse for a holiday and Cafe Carmel will be celebrating with a Croissant Bonanza, offering a variety of croissants – plain, almond and chocolate – at a special price. Buy three and get a fourth free. Ocean Avenue and Mission Street, Carmel. 624-3870, cafecarmel.com.

MORE TIME FOR MEAT… The Meatery has extended its business hours. In addition to adding a whole new day of operation – Wednesdays – the gourmet butcher and sandwich shop is also now open from 10am to 6pm. 1534 Fremont Blvd., Seaside. 656-8810, themeateryseaside.com.

PLANT KNOWLEDGE… If you want to learn more about plant-based eating (start with the story at left), Pilgrim’s Way Books hosts a useful (and delicious) event on Friday, Jan. 26. From 6-7:30pm Kristen Tarman shares her knowledge on the subject, including ideas on where to shop and dine. Tickets ($35) include plant-based snacks and a $10 book credit. RSVP to cynthia@pilgrimsway.com. Dolores Street between 5th and 6th, Carmel. 624-4955, pilgrimsway.com.

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