Lunch in Gilroy

[TeacherFoodie]

[NOTE: We've moved this discussion from the thread at http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/8358... -- The Chowhound Team]

1833 is booked for dinner. Leaving options open for lunch. Weather may be crappy according to next week's forecast and if so we will probably do some shopping in gilroy. Any other rainy day options in the area?

[KatoK]

I have had some tasty tacos at the Supermarket on Chestnut, which I believe is called Arteaga's. It seems to cater to the Mexican community and has a prepared food area on the right side, along with some picnic style seating. Not fancy to be sure, but I enjoyed the carnitas and the al pastor when I was there.

[alwayshungrygal]

The small town of Moss Landing (north of Monterey) used to have quite a few antique stores. Just one or two remain, but some of the other buildings there have art galleries in them now. Not sure if that's your thing, but it is an option. There are 3 restaurants in the town: The Haute Enchilada, The Whole Enchilada and Phil's Fish Market. I've eaten at all 3; Phil's doesn't always get alot of love on this board but it does have a very extensive seafood menu (order at the counter and then grab a seat) and it's always busy. Parking is a bit of a challenge there.

The 2 enchilada places are owned by the same family, and that family is also owner of some of the galleries. I haven't been there since last summer so things might have changed again.

Also in the area, but on Highway 1 just a bit north of the turn-off to Moss Landing is the Sea Harvest (or maybe it's the Sea Chest I forget), which does have a nice view of the Elkhorn Slough so you might see some sea otters etc there. Primarily seafood, white tablecloth, good service.

There are a few museums in Monterey you might look up to tour.

Oh and in Carmel itself, my favorite is Forge in the Forest, since I lean towards more casual dining anyway. Not sure if it is open for lunch. Great to sit on the outdoor patio if the weather is good.

[TeacherFoodie]

Any decent lunch options in Gilroy, not too far from the outlets, in case we end up there?

[baseballfan]

I have not found anything worthwhile in Gilroy. We default to In & Out. Hopefully someone has a better suggestion.

[alwayshungrygal]

Hmmm. I can't think of anything. When I go to the outlets I usually grab something right there and it's never anything I'd recommend. There is a "downtown" area in Gilroy, I think it is on Monterey St, that has some antique stores and a few restaurants. But I've not eaten there either. In & Out is across the street from the outlets, right next to the freeway. If you haven't eaten there before, worth trying it. Look for their "secret menu" online.

[starkiller]

Way past but if you head back:
* Milias
In downtown is a very nice place far exceeding the other restaurants in town. Service dampens it a bit but they do try hard. Its in a landmark building. I'd recommend the wedge salad which is done perfectly and a value.

* West Side Grill
It is the local hangout. Most of the food is so-so and they really need to revamp their menu. That being said try out the two things they do do well: fresh onion bread and lobster bisque.

If your are willing to drive a bit up to Morgan Hill there is:
* Huntington Station - Solid bar and grill
* Odeum - A truly wonderful restaurant. Nears but just misses five stars.
* Thai Leaf (I believe that's the name) - wonderful food, wonderful service, and great atmosphere.
Is

[Melanie Wong]

As always, good to hear from you about what's chow-worthy in the far South Bay. Could you say more about the fresh onion bread at West Side? I'm not finding it on the menu.
http://www.thewestsidegrill.com/

http://www.themiliasrestaurant.com/

[starkiller]

It isn't on the menu. Its the complimentary bread which I think is some of the better complimentary bread you can get. If you limit yourselves to that and a beer its a actually a very pleasant place :)

[Melanie Wong]

Even better, thanks.

And one more option for Gilroy, New Tung Kee Noodle House.
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/853912

[San Antonio Sam]

If you go to Gilroy you can stop at Garlic World on hwy 101. It's kind of neat if you've never been - they have all kinds of goodies made of garlic. There is a truck out front that serves decent tri-tip sandwiches at lunchtime.