Mavericks is on for the first time since 2008, and 40-foot swells and a sunny day are predicted for tomorrow down in Princeton-by-the-Sea, just north of Half Moon Bay. If you’re going to attempt to join in the fun and watch the big-wave surfers perform death-defying acts of bodacious grandeur, might we recommend stopping off in Pescadero before or after, at the historic Duarte’s Tavern.
They’ve been around since the dawn of time (1894), and they serve a mean cioppino, and an even meaner cream of artichoke soup. Also, they are known for their pies, which are also pretty fantastic and can now be purchased frozen at various tony grocers around the Bay.
If you’re looking for something a little ritzier with views of the ocean, you may want to check out the recently opened La Costanera in the former Chart House space in Montara. Michael Bauer was only mildly impressed with the food, but he couldn’t say enough about the drama of the setting.
And for the ritziest experience, you could drop in at Navio at the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, which is sold out for dinner but still has seats available for lunch, which is served until 2 p.m. They’ve also got a wine, cheese and chocolate bar if you just want to drop in for a glass.
If you want a closer view of the competition and don’t feel like driving, you may want to check out viewing parties at The Riptide out by ocean; Cityhouse at the Parc 55 hotel, where they’ll be showing Mavericks as well as the Winter Olympics on their 42-inch screens; Miss Pearl’s Jam House in Oakland, but you better arrive early; and the great big jumbo-tron at AT&T; Park (tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door).
Mavericks Surf Contest 2010 [FunCheapSF]
The Surfing Super Bowl: Facing the Mavericks [Time]
