Tarpy's Roadhouse

After visits to the Monterey Bay Aquarium I want some good, cheap food, an eatery distant from downtown Monterey and the Wharf. Tarpy’s Roadhouse sounds like such a place—halfway inland to the farming town of Salinas and close to its airport.

But the parking lot we pulled into last month was landscaped with a pond and garden, so hopes to limit the damage to my wallet quickly vanished. But at least the food turned out to be good.

All the trendy places have a pretty, young receptionist, and Tarpy’s was no exception. She flashed a bright smile and led us to a table next to a window. The white tablecloth and flowers made us feel underdressed in our casual tourist garb until I noticed T-shirted patrons interspersed amongst the older monied couples.

The waiter enthusiastically recited his favorites on the menu. I eyed his pudgy frame and concluded that he knew what he was talking about. We weren’t disappointed by his suggestions. The California comfort foods---herb-crusted artichoke rings, meatloaf with marsala-mushroom gravy on garlic potatoes, and roast duck with a cabernet-raspberry glaze--were rich, tasty, and filling, the perfect conclusion to a day of travel. We passed around the potatoes and even had room for dessert.

Chocolate-Espresso Bread Pudding in Bourbon Crème Anglaise

We thanked the waiter for his menu advice and very quick service throughout the meal. Our next trip to Monterey will include a stop at Tarpy’s, but I have to save up first. © 2007 Stephen Yuen