Cafe Fina, Monterey

Since this four-star seafood restaurant is right on Fisherman's Wharf, the view cannot be beat. It specializes in Sicilian seafood and the photographs lining the walls depict the owners' fishing background. A variety of tasty fresh fish meals with pasta are available, but the cioppino (fish stew) is the specialty of the house and is terrific. The wood-burning oven cranks out some great steak and lamb dishes as well. The wine list is eclectic, topping out with the usual USD200 Dom Perignon and an Italian Red, Tignanello, Marchesi Antinore at USD132. The service is family-like and locals frequent the place on a regular basis. See website for menus, videos, and more.