It’s true; if you like the cowboy-biker-casual vibe, there’s no place like Baha Cantina in Carmel Valley on Thursday evenings, their “hot chili and car show”. People show up with vintage cars to display down the center of the parking lot, and bikers park their beauties along the sides. Mingle with folks dressed in everything from leather chaps to dressed-up denim and even a sports jacket or two; there are no rules at Baja.

There is an outdoor grill that has a continuous line of diners drawn in by the aroma of sizzling beef, chicken and fish tacos, and burgers made to order. They also have pasta, fries, crazy good chili beans, a salad bar, and double chocolate brownies, all included with your dinner.

A local hands-down favorite musical group is the Money Band.

Baja calls itself a “grilling and filling station”. The specialties include great margheritas, and the food is Oaxacan salsas, with exremely fresh ingredients. It is always served the minute it is prepared.

More about the Money Band: I asked at least 5 people how they knew where the Money Band is playing and no one was quite sure. So one quick Google later, here is the Money Band Schedule. You’re welcome.