Monterey has the first theater, first printing press, and first public school in California. But it is also home to some of the best restaurants. The dining scene in Monterey is filled with amazing seafood places, posh hotel restaurants, comfy community eateries, and more. What are some of the best places to eat in Monterey?
We have your answer. Besides seafood, you can also find international cuisine. Monterey’s location along the PacificOcean makes it the best place for fresh seafood. It is a staple on the menu in many best restaurants here.
What is Monterey famous for?
Facing wide Monterey Bay, the city is famed for its abundance of marine wildlife and amazing fresh seafood. If you want to try some great food like shrimp, oysters, and clam chowder, you can do it in Monterey. Grab some at the fish market if you want to cook them at home.
No matter whether this is your first time in Monterey or your 10th, you will always appreciate the stunning scenery along the 17-Mile Drive. Combine the amazing beaches and coastal terrain, and you have a great town. And if you are into hiking, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve has some amazing hiking trails and memorable views.
Now let’s talk about the best places to eat in Monterey where you can relax after a day of hiking or enjoying the bay.
Best Restaurants in Monterey
Compagno’s Market and Deli
This neighborhood deli offers classic sandwiches and chips. The humble aesthetic of Compagno’s Market and Deli makes it one of the most memorable eateries.
It has an authentic community vibe. And the reason you will come here is the sandwiches. You can try them on spot, or take them to go and eat while exploring the town.
Some of the best sandwich options include Torpedo, Italian sausage sandwich, or Coast guard special.
Montrio Bistro
The upscale New American restaurant offers creative dishes and fine wine. MontrioBistro is basically a converted firehouse where you can experience fine dining in the heart of town.
The place is spacious with huge artwork. As for your great food options, we suggest starting off with onion soup gratinee and hiramasa crudo. But for your main meal, try the Orecchiette Salsiccia served with broccolini.
Aubergine
This intimate best restaurant located in a garden courtyard space within the L’Auberge hotel is the place to go for exclusive meals. Managed by award-winning chef Justin Cogley and pastry chef Yulanda Santos, you can enjoy some innovative and artful dishes.
Ask staff for wine pairings. Reservations are required. Expect eight to ten courses when you come into Aubergine. That is the complete experience.
Montereys Fish House
This best place offers the quintessential lure of a coastal community restaurant. But what makes it special? It is their signature use of an oak-firedgrill.
You get a tasty twist and modern interpretation of classic dishes like oysters, swordfish, and snapper. You will come back again and again to Montereys Fish House.
This is the place to go if you want a great seafood experience.
Bistro Moulin
Bistro Moulin is a local upscale bistro that serves French cuisine. The popular restaurant is where you go if you are into the minimalist ambiance and good French food.
It is a French cafe that serves some amazing dishes. For your appetizers, we suggest gnocchi aux expinards and a bowl of Gratinee A L’oignon. Once it comes time for the main meal, try the Steak Bordelaise.
Esteban Restaurant
From France, we move to Spain. Esteban Restaurant, located in Casa Munras Garden Hotel and Spa, offers Spanish food and Mediterranean fare.
The resort-style place earned a top vote for best restaurants in downtown Monterey. If you like, you can also dine out and sit on the light-wood garden.
You have to try the traditional patatas bravas that come with your table. And for your main meal, we suggest El Rancho Paella. A glass of good wine is a must.
Cultura Comida y Bebida
This restaurant is a breath of fresh air in a city filled with international cuisine. Founded by Sarah Kabat-Marcy and John Cox, Cultura Comida y Bebida is an Oaxacan-inspired restaurant with a seasonal menu of fresh dishes.
They range from street tacos to mole to great huevos rancheros at brunch. It is a full bar featuring many dishes with ingredients sourced from small producers in Oaxaca.
Do not miss the toasted peanuts with garlic.
Alvarado Street Brewery
Located on Alvarado Street in historic downtown Monterey, the brewery serves New American food from locally sourced ingredients.
It is a father and son brewery that opened in May 2014. Since then, Alvarado Street Brewery has gained popularity among beer-drinking locals. But they also have some great foods to try.
Toro
It is a tiny sushi place in Carmel that opened during the Covid-19 pandemic. But their policy of serving extremely fresh fish and simple ingredients has helped them survive the period. And it has ensured return customers.
Toro has a traditional menu with only a few appetizers like simple rolls and salads. If you want to try a signature dish, order omakase. It is a great way to try 16 pieces of the chef’s choice.
Do not worry, your sommelier will guide you through interesting sake-based cocktails.
A Taste of Monterey
Any time you have a restaurant with such a name, we have to put it on the list of best places to eat in Monterey CA, right? The bistro and wine bar is a local hotspot.
The American restaurant has some of the best views on the North Shore. Their amazing list of wine and beer will keep you coming back for more.
A taste of Monterey opened as a tasting room in 1993 and since then, the owners have developed a complementary menu of delicious fare. They pride themselves in finding a food drink to be paired with every dish.
El Cantaro Vegan Mexican Restaurant
Monterey CA is a city where international cuisine excels. This Mexican restaurant is another proof of that. El Cantaro Mexican Restaurant is a place specially designed for vegans. If you prefer a meat-free taco, this is the best place to visit.
But do not worry. Even if there is no meat, even the most dedicated carnivores will find something tasty and delicious.
They have everything you love about classic and authentic Mexican cuisine: flavor, spice, and delicious ingredients.
Some of the popular dishes include potato tacos and chicken taquitos.
Crystal Fish
Crystal Fish is a sushi restaurant famous for its Japanese dishes. But you can also try some sake. The casual Japanese hunt is a favorite among people in Monterey because of its classic choices.
You can try some creative dishes, but we suggest sticking to classics. For example, sushi and sashimi rolls like tropical mango roll or smoked salmon nigiri. For your starters, the options includegyoza,agedashitofu, and more.
Loulou’s Griddle in the middle
The family-friendly restaurant is famous for its seafood choices and morning meals. Loulou’s Griddle in the middle is a great seafood restaurant where you can start your day with a hearty breakfast.
This local hotspot is a place where you can chill on the counter or eat outside. The meals are simple, yet delicious. Our pick is the saltwater grazer or a classic basket of fresh fish and chips with a nice beer.
Hula’s Island Grill
The American restaurant and seafood place is a great spot for a family gathering. Located just moments from Cannery Row, Hula’s Island Grill offers a wide range of tropical fare.
Their Hawaiian décor is what makes you come. But then, you stay for the food. Tourists cannot resist the Hawaiian jerk dishes. The menu is full of intense flavors.
In the past few years, Hula’s has become the most popular tiki bar themed place.
Old Monterey café
Old Monterey café is a family-owned diner famous for its morning meals. You can also enjoy a midday meal with your family and friends. Join for a simple brunch at a cozy eatery full of framed décor.
We suggest trying the corned beef hash served with two eggs and toast. If you want some sweet breakfast, try the old Monterey banana pancakes paired with a glass of fresh orange juice.
Wave Street Cafe
The New American bistro offers morning and midday meals. But you can also grab a cup of coffee and a glass of wine in an outdoor seating patio.
You can have the best lunch in Monterey for an affordable price. You get that romantic villa vibe here while you enjoy tasty food.
For your great food options, we suggest their wave street combo for breakfast or brunch. It includes eggs, pancakes, bacon, sausage, and potatoes.
When visiting Wave Street Cafe, yu should also order a cup of Ghirardelli Hot Chocolate.
Rosine’s Restaurant
The family-friendly eatery serves classic American dishes. If you want to invite your family for an elegant meal out, Rosine’s Restaurant is the best place to do it.
Try their loaded potato skin and sweet and spicy wings and drumettes. A plate of California club is the dish to try.
And then, when you finish, you can choose a pastry for dessert. It is an easy choice, all pastries are displayed behind glass.
Hi, I’m a clinical psychologist and inclined towards best buying practices for home and kitchen things. Critical towards choosing the best product and honest with my feedback. I’m a seasoned writer having more than 4 years of experience in multiple niches as well.
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