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Chef Ben Spungin Serves Up Holiday Treats, from Monterey to Big Sur
As the chef/owner of Alta Group (which includes fan-favorites Alta Bakery & Cafe and Cella Restaurant in Monterey), Ben Spungin combines his fine dining background with his passion for locally-grown, seasonal ingredients and his love of the Monterey Peninsula. After living here for more than 20 years and working at renowned spots such as Post Ranch Inn, Ben’s developed a dedicated following for his bright, balanced, and creative cuisine. This November, find him at the Big Sur Food & Wine Festival (Oct. 31-Nov. 2), which he’s participated in every year since its inception. “I love this event because I see its proceeds go directly to the community: schools, health center, fire brigade, etc.” says Ben, who also enjoys supporting local charities like Youth Arts Collective, Meals on Wheels, Autism Speaks and Big Sur Health Center. Can’t make the festival? Catch him at one of his favorite spots below.
AM
Start the day with:
I’m a work-a-holic, so I spend most of my time at the beautiful Cooper Molera Adobe in Monterey, where our restaurants, Alta Bakery and Cella are located. (I know, life’s so hard.) I drink Tazzina Coffee, which we serve at both restaurants. It’s roasted in Santa Cruz almost every day, with a bold flavored bean and a depth of classic Italian style.
Always essential to visit:
When I meet folks from out of the area, or that have just moved here, I’m always astonished if they haven’t made it down the coast into Big Sur. Be sure to stop by The Village Big Sur, which is the hot new spot. And don’t miss Pfeiffer Beach, with its purple sand, monumental rocks protruding from the ocean, and sunset light beaming through the break.
Seasonal must:
The Harvest & Craft Fair in Big Sur on Thanksgiving weekend (Nov. 29-Dec. 1) is an essential experience. Held at Big Sur Grange on Hwy 1, it features independent craftspeople making beautiful items.
PM
Low-key lunch spot:
The only time I’ll get a sandwich outside of Alta is from Jerome’s Carmel Valley Market. I’ve known Jerome for many years. He brought quality goods to the Village in Carmel Valley and the market is soon to get an upgrade, expanding its current location to include coffee and new deli options.
Go-tos for holiday gifts:
I like shopping for mementos at the Cannery Row Antique Mall, because I really love the history of the area. If you’re looking for locally-made items, anything by Marie-Clare Treseder Gorham, who’s an amazing folk artist and all-around treat to be around. In Pacific Grove, Peninsula Potters Co-Op is a small, independent shop that features a group of passionate women creating beautiful pieces of art.
Pick these up for your holiday party:
At Alta, we have delicious pies for Thanksgiving, like pumpkin with cinnamon stick, white chocolate whipped ganache and toasted pumpkin seeds. For Christmas, it’s our Dresden stollen with rum soaked fruit, our orchards quince and almond marzipan. And our bûche de Noël chocolate Yule Log with meringue mushrooms always impresses.
When friends ask, “Where should we eat?” I always say:
Chez Noir. Hands down one of the best restaurants on the Central Coast. Owners Jonny and Monique Black are some of the best people I know. I have great respect for them both.
Best-kept secret for sweet treats:
The International Market and Deli on Lighthouse Avenue in Monterey for baklava, turkish delight, and out-of-the-ordinary sodas.
End the day with dinner at:
Cella Restaurant, of course! I really think we have a special staff. Barkeep Josh Perry is one of the most creative people I’ve had the opportunity to work with. He takes inspiration from the seasons. My favorite drink Josh makes is called “Tempt Fate” where he gives you three dice to roll: One has a spirit base, the other two will determine flavor and technique. Up to 216 possible combinations. Brilliantly fun.
Cover photo courtesy of Ben Spungin/Alta Bakery
PLAN YOUR DAY
on the Peninsula
- Alta Bakery and Cella Restaurant
Monterey, CA - Jerome’s Carmel Valley Market
Carmel Valley, CA - The Village Big Sur
Big Sur, CA - Pfeiffer Beach
Big Sur, CA - Cannery Row Antique Mall
Monterey, CA - Peninsula Potters
Pacific Grove, CA - International Market and Deli
Monterey, CA - Oystertown
Monterey, CA - Chez Noir
Carmel, CA
