The Portola Restaurant is an excellent white-tablecloth spot right next to Portola Cafe. Ask the woman at the podium in front to get seated. Has one of the city's best bartenders!
Very expensive entry fee, $40, and the place is very much aimed at kids. Though the jellyfish exhibition is worth the $40 in itself, not the "jellyfish experience" but the low lit exhibition
The world-class Aquarium is on historic Cannery Row in Monterey and open daily except Christmas. Hours at www.montereybayaquarium.org or (831) 648-4888.