Restaurants in Monterey
Best Restaurants
“The coastal kitchen was a wonderful experience. The staff was super friendly and accommodating. At each course they explained in great detail what the particular flavor characteristics were of the outstanding prepared food that we enjoyed We did the wine pairing, which was also quite a lot of fun. I admit, I enjoy a certain style of wine. But with an open mind was able to understand a nuances of different variables, as it was paired with food. The Somalia had a great deal of knowledge, and was very skilled at explaining a nuances of the wines we enjoyed. Overall, it was a fantastic experience, pretty pricey, but well worth it if you can afford that type of thing”
“The sort of place you stumble upon, then wonder why everyone isn’t talking about it.The food was divine. A perfect mix of flavours and delicately executed. I especially recommend the Yellowtail Crudo to start, and the lemon olive oil cake to finish.You might struggle to park but there aren’t many better places to eat in Monterey than this!Parking: On site, around the back”
“The food was wonderful, as always. My husband and I grew up eating here with our families on vacations, however, this was our best experience yet! Our server, shout out to Tara, was prompt with bringing our food and was extremely personable with all of her table including us. She absolutely made our evening with her joyful personality. The support staff was also pleasant; they kept drinks fill and table clean. Great experience overall!Dietary restrictions: Dietary restrictions friendly! Vegan and gluten free option available.”
“My family and I, although we have lived in the Monterey area for quite a few years, had our first dinner experience at Sardine Factory. My mother chose this restaurant, because she remembered seeing a beautiful photo of the place in a travel brochure.My brother and I were determined to "do whatever mom wants", so we agreed to her suggestion immediately.Upon arrival, we were seated in one of the extraordinary dining rooms. Mom asked about the "sunroom in the brochure", and... Since we were determined to do anything that Mom wants, I worked up the courage to ask Rachel and Natalie to figure out what room my mother was talking about and seat us there.Typically, I am quite shy about inconveniening people, but... Today was different. I just found out that my elderly mother had a doctor's visit that was life-changing.So... I found a moment to tell Rachel and Natalie that I was deaing with a "life moment regarding mom's health". Rachel and Natalie immediately found a table for us in the glass atrium that my mother had seen in a brochure. I was very, very touched by how quickly these two lovely staff members worked to make my mom's wish come true. Their kindness and sincerity were just so apparent and obvious.We took dozens of photographs of ourselves, my laughing mom, and the beautiful glass atrium. The food was delicious. I drank too much. There were some tears and laughter.The beautiful setting. The delicious food. The wine. The happy memories, while my family shared a rare moment to get together despite our busy, busy lives....Rachel and Natalie and the rest of the wonderful staff at Sardine Factory, thank you so much for sharing your love, sincerity, your gorgeous restaurant and lovingly prepared food with us.My entire family will remember this evening forever. Thank you.~Austin”
“place with traditional flavors mole tacos special tortillas in corn different flavored sauces it really seemed like a super restaurant. I would definitely eat here again on my next trip. I recommend it. They also have excellent customer service.”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“Old school, old school, old school is all I can say! 35 year successful establishment with the owner on the premises and hands on. His brothers are the chefs. True, classic Italian family run restaurant. Food is traditional and the clam chowder unreal. The owner will talk your ear off, so be careful! Great experience. They truly care. This is a serious restaurant, not a tourist trap.”
“My family and I decided to eat breakfast here the other morning and I sure am glad we did! My husband and I ordered two savory crepes while our kids ordered sweet crepes. We all shared, because who doesn’t like a bit of both sweet and savory? Service was excellent and my kids got to watch as the crepes were created. The food was DELICIOUS. I will definitely go back next time I’m in the area! ✨”
“The food is excellent, though the prices are high. The one quibble I have is that the service is a bit too American: the food arrives very quickly and the plates are cleared before everyone has finished eating. When we told the waiter we weren't ordering dessert, he had the prepared bill in his hand to present to us. We purposely reserved at a late for Monterey hour of 8 PM, so that we wouldn't be rushed out.”
Restaurants with Delivery
“Fantastic French cafe eats and coffee drinks. The setting is so Van Gogh. Perhaps it has views of the water from the unaccessible upper floors but it’s a quaint little place and is part of Monterey’s eclectic make-up. If you have a B’day coming up their French cakes are divine too.”
“The coastal kitchen was a wonderful experience. The staff was super friendly and accommodating. At each course they explained in great detail what the particular flavor characteristics were of the outstanding prepared food that we enjoyed We did the wine pairing, which was also quite a lot of fun. I admit, I enjoy a certain style of wine. But with an open mind was able to understand a nuances of different variables, as it was paired with food. The Somalia had a great deal of knowledge, and was very skilled at explaining a nuances of the wines we enjoyed. Overall, it was a fantastic experience, pretty pricey, but well worth it if you can afford that type of thing”
“The sort of place you stumble upon, then wonder why everyone isn’t talking about it.The food was divine. A perfect mix of flavours and delicately executed. I especially recommend the Yellowtail Crudo to start, and the lemon olive oil cake to finish.You might struggle to park but there aren’t many better places to eat in Monterey than this!Parking: On site, around the back”
“What a gluten free find!!! Not only was this bakery 100% dedicated gluten free they had dairy free and vegan options. Every employee we encountered was helpful and kind. They were able to make us a dairy free breakfast sandwiches which were heavenly. The muffins were large and so moist and delicious. Cupcakes were so good it was hard to believe they were gluten free. But can I tell you about their vegan scones?! I have NEVER had a scone that wasn’t dry until I tried them here at Neces. How do they do it? When I could eat gluten I remember scones being dry lol. You will NOT be disappointed! Cannot wait to take a trip back.”
“The food was wonderful, as always. My husband and I grew up eating here with our families on vacations, however, this was our best experience yet! Our server, shout out to Tara, was prompt with bringing our food and was extremely personable with all of her table including us. She absolutely made our evening with her joyful personality. The support staff was also pleasant; they kept drinks fill and table clean. Great experience overall!Dietary restrictions: Dietary restrictions friendly! Vegan and gluten free option available.”
“My family and I, although we have lived in the Monterey area for quite a few years, had our first dinner experience at Sardine Factory. My mother chose this restaurant, because she remembered seeing a beautiful photo of the place in a travel brochure.My brother and I were determined to "do whatever mom wants", so we agreed to her suggestion immediately.Upon arrival, we were seated in one of the extraordinary dining rooms. Mom asked about the "sunroom in the brochure", and... Since we were determined to do anything that Mom wants, I worked up the courage to ask Rachel and Natalie to figure out what room my mother was talking about and seat us there.Typically, I am quite shy about inconveniening people, but... Today was different. I just found out that my elderly mother had a doctor's visit that was life-changing.So... I found a moment to tell Rachel and Natalie that I was deaing with a "life moment regarding mom's health". Rachel and Natalie immediately found a table for us in the glass atrium that my mother had seen in a brochure. I was very, very touched by how quickly these two lovely staff members worked to make my mom's wish come true. Their kindness and sincerity were just so apparent and obvious.We took dozens of photographs of ourselves, my laughing mom, and the beautiful glass atrium. The food was delicious. I drank too much. There were some tears and laughter.The beautiful setting. The delicious food. The wine. The happy memories, while my family shared a rare moment to get together despite our busy, busy lives....Rachel and Natalie and the rest of the wonderful staff at Sardine Factory, thank you so much for sharing your love, sincerity, your gorgeous restaurant and lovingly prepared food with us.My entire family will remember this evening forever. Thank you.~Austin”
“I’m vegan and visiting Monterey when I saw vegan baklava! I stopped and the sweetest man was incredibly kind and helpful when assuring me that ALL baklava were vegan! It’s a small, locally owned family business and he was so sweet at my excitement that he even offered my family a sample of his favorite- the coffee walnut! We ordered every flavor, and I can confirm that they were all DELICIOUS!!!!!! I would absolutely recommend you stop for sweet treats!I’ll be back to try the food next!Vegetarian options: Vegan baklava!”
“place with traditional flavors mole tacos special tortillas in corn different flavored sauces it really seemed like a super restaurant. I would definitely eat here again on my next trip. I recommend it. They also have excellent customer service.”
“Old school, old school, old school is all I can say! 35 year successful establishment with the owner on the premises and hands on. His brothers are the chefs. True, classic Italian family run restaurant. Food is traditional and the clam chowder unreal. The owner will talk your ear off, so be careful! Great experience. They truly care. This is a serious restaurant, not a tourist trap.”
“The food here is really great and the menu is huge! There are many foods that are rarely found as vegan options, so it's a lot of fun for a vegan to try them. Service is friendly and fast food is made to order. The empanaditos are also very good, and the desserts are also very delicious. This restaurant is centrally located and can be busy at times. If the parking lot is full, there is usually free street parking just a block or two away.Vegetarian options: Restaurant is completely vegan”
“My family and I decided to eat breakfast here the other morning and I sure am glad we did! My husband and I ordered two savory crepes while our kids ordered sweet crepes. We all shared, because who doesn’t like a bit of both sweet and savory? Service was excellent and my kids got to watch as the crepes were created. The food was DELICIOUS. I will definitely go back next time I’m in the area! ✨”
“The food is excellent, though the prices are high. The one quibble I have is that the service is a bit too American: the food arrives very quickly and the plates are cleared before everyone has finished eating. When we told the waiter we weren't ordering dessert, he had the prepared bill in his hand to present to us. We purposely reserved at a late for Monterey hour of 8 PM, so that we wouldn't be rushed out.”
“Second to none. The sandwich was huge and Compagno himself checked us out. We were scruffy, just having come from a dive in the bay, and this is exactly what we needed. We shall return! Thank you, Compagno!”
“Ordered half dozen oysters, calamari, and spicy shrimp pasta in a red sauce. The vibes are casual but are common to hear crying/loud children due to being close to the aquarium. The pasta wasn’t spicy at all but still tasted good”
“A friend recommended this place and it sure exceeded expectations. Wait staff very friendly and helpful. Breakfast portions were were large, and my husband and I could have split something if we could have agreed on what to eat. Hollandaise sauce was spot on, NOT fake cheesy sauce. Took home leftovers. And the sweets looked so yummy. May have to go back this evening to pick up dessert.”
“A friend recommended this place and it sure exceeded expectations. Wait staff very friendly and helpful. Breakfast portions were were large, and my husband and I could have split something if we could have agreed on what to eat. Hollandaise sauce was spot on, NOT fake cheesy sauce. Took home leftovers. And the sweets looked so yummy. May have to go back this evening to pick up dessert.”
“I came here with my family this last weekend and wanted to make sure I completed this review based off the fantastic experience I had at this location. Desiree was extremely nice and helpful. Desiree even accommodated us by taking me to look at the table that was available to ensure that worked for my family and let me know there was another option if it did not work for us. I have to say I have never had a restaurant employee treat me that good. I really felt welcomed and taken care of.When we sat down we were assisted by waitress Autumn who was wonderful herself. Autumn was very friendly, attentive and had good knowledge of the menu. Exactly how you would like your server to be. She took very good care of us our whole visit. Overall the food, service and atmosphere were awesome. I would definitely recommend coming here when you're in Monterey. I for sure will be coming back very soon.”
“Review for the complimentary breakfast 8/10The service is excellent and attentive. The food was delicious and the frittata was excellent. Ambiance it was very aesthetically pleasing. Overall the hotel was nice and the food was awesome.More food stuff @vin.foodjournal”
Outdoor Dining
“Absolutely LOVE this place. I had the crab and shrimp omelette with a Lou Mosa. I would recommend you come early so you can enjoy your breakfast with a beautiful view. Best Breakfast in Monterey!!!! The atmosphere is fun and warm and exciting every time I come.”
“Nice ambiance, good selection on tap. There is indoor and outdoor seating. The bar itself doesn't have food options, but there's a taco truck in the outside dining area that does, and you can bring the food into the bar itself. Can be a little loud/crowded on a weekend.”
“I came here with my family this last weekend and wanted to make sure I completed this review based off the fantastic experience I had at this location. Desiree was extremely nice and helpful. Desiree even accommodated us by taking me to look at the table that was available to ensure that worked for my family and let me know there was another option if it did not work for us. I have to say I have never had a restaurant employee treat me that good. I really felt welcomed and taken care of.When we sat down we were assisted by waitress Autumn who was wonderful herself. Autumn was very friendly, attentive and had good knowledge of the menu. Exactly how you would like your server to be. She took very good care of us our whole visit. Overall the food, service and atmosphere were awesome. I would definitely recommend coming here when you're in Monterey. I for sure will be coming back very soon.”
“I was undecided between the breakfast quesadilla and a benedict. The server, Azeneth, informed me that Wave is renowned for its holiday sauce, so I opted for the heirloom tomato and basil benedict. I requested it with bacon but ultimately removed it. It was exceptionally delectable! I also ordered a caramel latte, which was of exceptional quality, suggesting that they source their coffee locally from a reputable brand. Azeneth provided attentive service throughout my meal. The restaurant is situated in Monterey, directly on the beach, offering a picturesque setting. I indulged in a delightful Italian fillo. If you are considering a breakfast visit, I wholeheartedly recommend this establishment.Parking: There are a few complimentary parking spaces available at the restaurant's location.”
“The food was good, and so was the White Chocolate Mochas, but there seemed to be a lot going on in the prep area, but not so much as in the dining (interior/exterior) area.Also pretty pricey for breakfast, two crepes & two White Chocolate Mochas was over $50.”
“Review for the complimentary breakfast 8/10The service is excellent and attentive. The food was delicious and the frittata was excellent. Ambiance it was very aesthetically pleasing. Overall the hotel was nice and the food was awesome.More food stuff @vin.foodjournal”
“The hole in the wall is located on the wharf. Walk down stairs and it's right on the water. The initial impression I got wasn't great. Standing and waiting for several mins awkwardly as multiple people passed by who work there, not even a quick greeting or acknowledgment. A very busy, quick talking woman came rushing our way at some point and whisked us away to a table. The view was beautiful. The ocean, the boats, the weather. Fairly quickly we did get served. Trying the fresh halibut special, it did. It disappoint. Deliciously encrusted with pecan and bread crumbs, a creamy mango sauce. My other half opted for the salmon, also fresh and delicious. The overall observation and interaction is that this is a locally owned establishment with a great reputation of the locals and tourist drift in and out.”
“Garlic Roasted Mushroomsthey were okay I wish they were dripping in garlic butter.Almost PalomaTequila Blanco, lime juice, house-made grapefruit shrubTastes exactly like a good Paloma but without the fizz of soda. Would recommendSnake River Farms Wagyu Eye of RibeyeGrilled over almond wood, duck fat fried marble potatoes, charred onion, huckleberry demi-glaceJust get it because it's that good melt in your mouth seriously, but pro move ask for a little salt to sprinkle on top it will enhance the flavors truly.Jumbo Lump Blue Crab CakesPan-seared, apple-carrot slaw, pomegranate seeds, pomegranate reductionGood, but it is sweet, I would have preferred it a little more with savory notes but I recommend it because it's a really fresh take on the crab cakeMiso Glazed Pork BellyPickled apple arugula salad, garlic chili oilThis I would order again and double it.. soo good. The salad was absolutely refreshing paired well with the rich tender pork belly. I was so mesmerized.Olo Ranch Braised Beef Short RibConfit of cherry tomatoes, vegetable sauteed spinach, pommes puree, pan jusTender TENDER TENDER I recommend ordering this everytime you go.Parking: Parking is extremely limited we were lucky enough to find parking in the parking garage for free in the evening. we drove around for about 10 min until we lucked out.”
“Never in my life have I ever thought I'd see the live long day I would eat a raw sweet potato but then I went to Alta Cafe in Monterey and ordered a Grain* Bowl. The menu listed sweet taters in it and I'm a sweet tato felon. But to my surprise and eventual delight that sucker RAW. Never have I felt more raw vegan Cali girl Stanley cup life style than then and I fear I may never feel that way again ?. Also the coffee cold brew had coffee ice cubes that was awesome good job guys .and the ginger scone was yummy. And the salmon toast was yummy too.*Quinoa bowl excuse meVegetarian options: So many it's crazy. Raw tatosKid-friendliness: You could fit So many of those suckers in there”
“Nice little wine bar with small bites in the Cannery Row area. They had some nice wine choices and beers. Charcuterie and flatbreads and other snacks. Wine flights in test tubes which looked a bit bizarre but was popular! Good service with only one person working when I went. I went with a glass of their Brut which was slightly sweet for me , and their sourdough pretzel with Dijon mustard. The pretzel was nice and warm and the mustard had a great kick. Nice little gifts available too. I liked that it had groups and just solos having a glass of vino at the end of the day. Cozy feel.”
“Enjoyed a nice afternoon @ "A Taste of Monterey"! Whether you come for the food & wine, or just wonderful wines...make it a definite visit. I'm sure they can be busy (so check on a reservation), but we were lucky enough to walk right in. Attached is a view from our seats.”
“The food is 5-star. The rest is 4-star. The food and drinks were delicious and reasonably priced. 3 Tapas plates and a dessert were enough for 2 of us. Try the Basque Cheesecake.”
“If I could give more than 5 stars I would. The Argentinian tri-tip is fabulous. Every time I go. The chicken Melanese also phenomenal. Easily the best sandwich spot in the peninsula.”
“We came here for dinner and decided just to do a bunch of appetizers. It was all delicious, but especially the sliders. You can also sample most of the beers so you can be sure you like it before ordering more. The staff was incredibly nice and we had a great time. We will definitely be going back for actual entrees next time.”
“This market is a great place to get some middle eastern groceries that can be harder to find. A great selection. They also make really delicious food that is made to order, but still quick and very delicious. And, very conveniently, they have a great selection of vegan options on the menu, including falafel, bread, hummus, baba ganoush, salads, lentil stew, and stuffed grape leaves.”
“The hole in the wall is located on the wharf. Walk down stairs and it's right on the water. The initial impression I got wasn't great. Standing and waiting for several mins awkwardly as multiple people passed by who work there, not even a quick greeting or acknowledgment. A very busy, quick talking woman came rushing our way at some point and whisked us away to a table. The view was beautiful. The ocean, the boats, the weather. Fairly quickly we did get served. Trying the fresh halibut special, it did. It disappoint. Deliciously encrusted with pecan and bread crumbs, a creamy mango sauce. My other half opted for the salmon, also fresh and delicious. The overall observation and interaction is that this is a locally owned establishment with a great reputation of the locals and tourist drift in and out.”
14
Montrio
“Garlic Roasted Mushroomsthey were okay I wish they were dripping in garlic butter.Almost PalomaTequila Blanco, lime juice, house-made grapefruit shrubTastes exactly like a good Paloma but without the fizz of soda. Would recommendSnake River Farms Wagyu Eye of RibeyeGrilled over almond wood, duck fat fried marble potatoes, charred onion, huckleberry demi-glaceJust get it because it's that good melt in your mouth seriously, but pro move ask for a little salt to sprinkle on top it will enhance the flavors truly.Jumbo Lump Blue Crab CakesPan-seared, apple-carrot slaw, pomegranate seeds, pomegranate reductionGood, but it is sweet, I would have preferred it a little more with savory notes but I recommend it because it's a really fresh take on the crab cakeMiso Glazed Pork BellyPickled apple arugula salad, garlic chili oilThis I would order again and double it.. soo good. The salad was absolutely refreshing paired well with the rich tender pork belly. I was so mesmerized.Olo Ranch Braised Beef Short RibConfit of cherry tomatoes, vegetable sauteed spinach, pommes puree, pan jusTender TENDER TENDER I recommend ordering this everytime you go.Parking: Parking is extremely limited we were lucky enough to find parking in the parking garage for free in the evening. we drove around for about 10 min until we lucked out.”
“Nice little wine bar with small bites in the Cannery Row area. They had some nice wine choices and beers. Charcuterie and flatbreads and other snacks. Wine flights in test tubes which looked a bit bizarre but was popular! Good service with only one person working when I went. I went with a glass of their Brut which was slightly sweet for me , and their sourdough pretzel with Dijon mustard. The pretzel was nice and warm and the mustard had a great kick. Nice little gifts available too. I liked that it had groups and just solos having a glass of vino at the end of the day. Cozy feel.”
Online Reservation Available
“Saw that there was a huge line the night before and had to try it out the next day. The ice cream is good but it was melting super fast (it was not hot that day). I got the banana caramel with a waffle cone. The waffle cones here are different than what I am use to. They are not crispy/crunchy but more soft and they kind of tasted like a cookie.”
“Amazing food and service. My husband and I have started coming to Whaling Station every anniversary and now we returned as newlyweds. The service was amazing, food was incredible (cucumber cooler drink was to die for ). MUST TRY MONTEREY DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT.”
“We typically enjoy coming here but today it was very crowded - we opted to have dinner in the bar area which was a mistake. The food was delicious and the bartender/server was gracious but the bar was very loud & inconsiderate to us and the other patrons dining. It wouldn’t be bad if the prices were reflective of the bar crowd. The Italian host/maybe owner is kind. We will of course come back but don’t dine in the bar if you want a special seafood dinner in Monterey (make a reservation!) Our fault!Parking: Paid parking lot, must enter your license plate number. Not worth paying for a Sunday dinner, the lot isn’t crowded at all.”
“Fantastic food and service!! So delicious!! Portions were generous. A little off the beaten path. A hidden gem. We’ll be back for sure. Healthy and hearty.Vegetarian options: Falafel, hummus, lentils, beans, fries, moreWheelchair accessibility: Ramp in and lots of space for wheelchair”
“We visited Namaste for their lunch buffet and were positively surprised with their taste and service. Even though the place was packed, the staff was very efficient in refilling the buffet counters. The taste was authentic and we enjoyed dining here! Definitely recommend and would visit again!”
“We visited on a Sunday evening and Chef Federico greeted us with a smile and waited on us the entire meal. We had four delightful courses and chef paired amazing wines with each course!! Thank you for the fantastic dining experience!!”
“Delicious food and attentive service. Went in for lunch. The sashimi salad is so fresh and original. Also ordered the sunset roll which was amazing. All the fish was very fresh and well prepared. Will definitely be back.”
“Fantastically fresh seafood. Some of the best we had driving the California coast. The Valet parking was a mess and the drinks were mediocre, but go for the food!”
“Tarpy's service and food is consistently good. It's one of my wife's and my favorite restaurant in the Monterey area. It's essentially nice during the summer to have lunch on the patio dining area.”
“Good stuff to expect here! It's hard to manage the temperature in an outdoor pub, but they do a good job of picking a good time to turn on the fire pit. Good selection; they have something for everyone.”
“I stopped in in early afternoon to enjoy some afternoon wine, and it did not disappoint. The wine was delicious. I did the Taser and then had a glass of one of my favorites. The waitress was amazing and the live music was an added bonus definitely a spot I will go back to.”
“The food was amazing. Good authentic Mexican food. My husband got the tacos "regular with cheese," my daughter got the poke tamales, and I got the nachos. Recommended this spot to anyone who is caving Mexican food. Eat ”
“I loved this place! Great atmosphere and a totally great staff! Had a great time with friends from out of town, it couldn't have been better! Good food, great drinks, and a view to boot!”
“I wasn't expecting to eat at the restaurant at all but the weather that evening led me and my friends to give it a try. Menu has a great selection full of authentic Mandarin dishes.”
“We have eaten breakfast here many times and it is always great. Large selection of fruits, breads/rolls/donuts/muffins, eggs, meats, an omelette bar. The waiter that brings drinks was very friendly and attentive.”
“Enjoyed a nice afternoon @ "A Taste of Monterey"! Whether you come for the food & wine, or just wonderful wines...make it a definite visit. I'm sure they can be busy (so check on a reservation), but we were lucky enough to walk right in. Attached is a view from our seats.”
“The food was amazing and flavorful! The spice levels were also perfect, a dish labeled as spicy was actually spicy. I’d highly recommend the panang curry and drunken noodles : )”
“Amazing food and service. My husband and I have started coming to Whaling Station every anniversary and now we returned as newlyweds. The service was amazing, food was incredible (cucumber cooler drink was to die for ). MUST TRY MONTEREY DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT.”
24 Hour Restaurants
“The Presidio of Monterey is a active military base that also is the home of the Defense Language Institute. This base sits up on the hilltop and has some of the most spectacular views of the Monterey Bay. The Presidio has a very old history that dates back to the early Spanish settlers and Missionaries that discovered our beautiful state. This base requires visitors to check in at the designated gates with ID, etc. There's definitely plenty of interesting things to see like the Sloat Monument, part of the Berlin wall and a Russian tank from WWll . Many active duty military stationed at the Presidio consider it as paradise.”
“Food hit the spot (tried the strawberry crepes and it was great!) and the service was fantastic! Carrie was an amazing waitress; definitely worth coming back again.”
“One of my favorite burgers, better then the one those 5 guys make.The Bourbon BBQ bacon burger with fries. A mound of sloppy goodness. Strawberry shake with real strawberries.Wheelchair accessibility: Wide doorway for wheelchairs and plenty of dining, no outside dining”
“food here is it's always good, as far as fast food goes. Open 24 hours ,everything is always Hot ?. To me that's important When your dealing with fast food .Noone wants fast food that's even been sitting 5 minutes! So it's nice getting hot just cooked food , and the staff is always nice. Super great when it's late .”
“The food is 5-star. The rest is 4-star. The food and drinks were delicious and reasonably priced. 3 Tapas plates and a dessert were enough for 2 of us. Try the Basque Cheesecake.”
“We came here for dinner and decided just to do a bunch of appetizers. It was all delicious, but especially the sliders. You can also sample most of the beers so you can be sure you like it before ordering more. The staff was incredibly nice and we had a great time. We will definitely be going back for actual entrees next time.”
“While my experience at Zab Zab Thai was mixed, there were definitely highlights worth mentioning. The Pad See Ew didn't quite hit the mark for me, lacking the depth of flavor I was expecting. However, where Zab Zab Thai truly shines is in their selection of curries. From the aromatic green curry to the rich and creamy red curry, each dish delivered a delightful burst of authentic Thai flavors. If you're a curry enthusiast, Zab Zab Thai is definitely worth a visit.”
Takeout Restaurants
“A wonderful breakfast spot! Although this place is small, they can handle the constant flow of customers. The location itself feels very comforting and welcoming. They offer traditional breakfast along with some Mexican inspired dishes. My family enjoyed our meals, coffee and chia lattes. The service was excellent. For only two people working the tables, they are quick and accurate. Definitely come here when you’re in the area and wanting a nice hot breakfast.Parking: Free street parking with 90 minute limit”
“Love this place! Great coffee, and yummy avocado toast. Friendly staff, quick service and healthy short menu. Sit at the long natural wood shared tables. BTW a huge coffee grinder in the shop is fun to see. Open to the outside so you can sit outside in good weather. Hilarious the famous tandem bike that the shop kept outside - the thief was caught on video stealing - showed up dumped and returned, likely due to being all over the news! Lol.”
“I adore this shop! They always make my drinks perfect, have me sample to make sure it is just right. I don't like my drinks too sweet and they always make them PERFECT ?Thank you always ?”
“Great food, and great service. Not much they could do about the atmosphere, it is super clean, but due to it's size they realized it needed to be understated. It's a small place, a bar and a few tables, but the food is wonderful. Simple menu, even for those not familiar with Korean food, it's easy to understand.Kim Chi--excellent, I had the pork bowl and it was really tasty. Next time I'll go for their signature dish.”
“The food is absolutely amazing, especially for the price. I haven't been able to find a better quesabirria taco in Monterey. The service is always very friendly, they're more stand-off-ish so if you don't like casual dining this might not be your place to go. They're very nice though. They ALWAYS have good music playing. There aren't a whole lot of tables so be cautious about visiting while they're busy. Fortunately this is a great to-go meal! I highly recommend this restaurant to any resident or traveler alike!”
“The food was amazing and flavorful! The spice levels were also perfect, a dish labeled as spicy was actually spicy. I’d highly recommend the panang curry and drunken noodles : )”
“While my experience at Zab Zab Thai was mixed, there were definitely highlights worth mentioning. The Pad See Ew didn't quite hit the mark for me, lacking the depth of flavor I was expecting. However, where Zab Zab Thai truly shines is in their selection of curries. From the aromatic green curry to the rich and creamy red curry, each dish delivered a delightful burst of authentic Thai flavors. If you're a curry enthusiast, Zab Zab Thai is definitely worth a visit.”
“The baked wings here are so good! The pizza was perfect as the crust was not too thin or thick. Just the right amount of cheese too. The restaurant is small but the staff are helpful and explain what you are ordering. It is a great take out place but very cute if you want to dine in. I would highly recommended.”
“Great casual Mexican restaurant. They were so welcoming and the homemade tortilla chips and salsa were perfect. Everything was delicious and we enjoyed the homemade tortillas and delicious breakfast. Fantastic gem with parking right out front. Stop in and give Mondo a try.”
“East Village Cafe makes an amazing cup of coffee. The baristas are so nice and professional. The place itself has so much personality, so cozy and eclectic. The best part is, you don't have to wait in a crazy long line like at other coffee shops in the area. I definitely recommend this place if you are into amazing coffee and chill vibes.”
“A good selection of smoothies, which are well sized. Employees were friendly. Juices are not pressed to order but are rather pre-bottled. Not a huge problem but if ordering online, you should be aware. Also that means you can’t make any substitutions.”
“This place really does their food right. I absolutely loved their fish and chips and more laid back atmosphere here versus cannery row. I do recommend eating here if you just want a good meal after a long day at the aquarium or beach.Parking: Easy to find a place to park on the street on a busy Friday afternoon”
“My first time at this restaurant. My kind of place. I ordered the Fiesta burger with their slaw. We also ordered a basket of onion rings. The food was delicious and plentiful. Only negative was our server must have had a bad day. Not very personable. I truly hope it was just because her day had been difficult. Definitely will go back.”
“Great food, wonderful service. The building was a little older and on the smaller side. There’s no view. But if you’re looking for great food, service and value this is your place.”
“Was recommended by a friend and it exceeded expectations. The selection of Turkish delights was amazing, there were flavor combinations I could never imagine. Bought a six flavor sampler box and now already planning which flavors to get next. A real gem.”
“We typically enjoy coming here but today it was very crowded - we opted to have dinner in the bar area which was a mistake. The food was delicious and the bartender/server was gracious but the bar was very loud & inconsiderate to us and the other patrons dining. It wouldn’t be bad if the prices were reflective of the bar crowd. The Italian host/maybe owner is kind. We will of course come back but don’t dine in the bar if you want a special seafood dinner in Monterey (make a reservation!) Our fault!Parking: Paid parking lot, must enter your license plate number. Not worth paying for a Sunday dinner, the lot isn’t crowded at all.”
23
EPSILON
“Fantastic food and service!! So delicious!! Portions were generous. A little off the beaten path. A hidden gem. We’ll be back for sure. Healthy and hearty.Vegetarian options: Falafel, hummus, lentils, beans, fries, moreWheelchair accessibility: Ramp in and lots of space for wheelchair”
“We visited Namaste for their lunch buffet and were positively surprised with their taste and service. Even though the place was packed, the staff was very efficient in refilling the buffet counters. The taste was authentic and we enjoyed dining here! Definitely recommend and would visit again!”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
“I was here at least five days a week while living in Monterey, and I must say I miss this place. It was always a welcoming atmosphere where I looked forward to getting work done every time. Employees are fantastic, will return if ever in the area again!”
“I bought a latte, took white sugar, Went in again in a few minutes.Me: can I have more sugarMasked Woman:yes which oneMe: the regular kindMasked Woman: white?Me: yesShe turned around took a few white, looked back at me, her eyes smiled knowingly, took a few brown too, handed them to me smiling.I smiled back at her.I loved her brown sugar in the latte.I am visiting the USA as a tourist. I will always remember the smile of her eyes on her glowing coffee brown skin every time I think of coffee and sugar.”
“I love eating here. The honey walnut shrimp is my favorite! We've eaten here twice, and i can't wait to go back. The servings are great for the price! It's clean and kid friendly. The staff are friendly as well. It's right next to trader Joe's and across is Chipotle. The parking isn't that bad either.”
“I got some coupons in the mail and decided to try it out since I'm not from the West Coast. The food hit the spot after a good workout at the gym. The employees are friendly and hard-working. Another thing to note is that if you are not in a rush, eating inside is not too bad. But if you are, the drive-thru is the way to go!”
“Taco Bell is the goat of late night deliciousness. I’ve stopped in to this location from time to time on my many Monterey trips and it’s a beacon of awesome in the night. Whether you want something sweet like a Cinnabon bite or savory like a cheesy Gordita crunch, they got you covered. The staff was friendly and the restaurant was clean. Will definitely be back.”
“This is the best McDonald's in the area, great friendly staff, and very well cooked food. They really do their job here at this McDonald's and give more than just a fast food experience.”
“A good selection of smoothies, which are well sized. Employees were friendly. Juices are not pressed to order but are rather pre-bottled. Not a huge problem but if ordering online, you should be aware. Also that means you can’t make any substitutions.”
“My first time at this restaurant. My kind of place. I ordered the Fiesta burger with their slaw. We also ordered a basket of onion rings. The food was delicious and plentiful. Only negative was our server must have had a bad day. Not very personable. I truly hope it was just because her day had been difficult. Definitely will go back.”
“We visited on a Sunday evening and Chef Federico greeted us with a smile and waited on us the entire meal. We had four delightful courses and chef paired amazing wines with each course!! Thank you for the fantastic dining experience!!”
Cheap Eats
“Great Sandwiches! Warning, it’s Cash Only! But good value and maybe the best sandwiches in town. Recommend the Turkey Club.On a side note, after not being able to eat for two days after minor surgery, as you can imagine I was starving. My first choice of food was Randy’sTurkey Club. I ordered two with the real intention of having one later in the day for dinner. I failed! Both gone within an hour of one another. I think that’s a testament to their food. Enjoy!”
“Wow, what a delicious, healthy lunch I had today from Terra Superfoods. I ordered a Cypress grain bowl and it was literally perfection. Everything was so fresh and tasty. Greens, garbanzo beans, tomatoes, red onion, olives, cucumbers, mint and perfectly cooked quinoa with a zesty lime dressing, vegan tzatziki and hummus. Yummy yummy. The hummus was fantastic, smooth and flavorful. I also appreciate that all the sauces/dressing were in separate containers on the side.I actually felt healthier just by eating this meal. I ? recommend giving this local business a try. I'll have to check out some of the other things they have to offer. 10/10Vegetarian options: Vegan from what I can tell. Nothing sneaky ?”
“Classic Pizzeria food is amazing crust of pizza melts in your mouth extremly fresh tasting worth the stop. Staff is friendly and attentive when waiting to order.”
“So I'll start with the positivity."The works" bacon breakfast burrito was excellent, potatoes cooked perfectly with great flavor and homemade salsa flavor bomb. Wife said her breakfast tacos were delicious same positivity on her food.Moving on to the drinks, my wife loved the orange juice however $6 for about 8oz is a little bold. I bought a $7 latte which didn't offend me by price because in all the pictures it came in a Bowl! And I was actually excited about that however they didn't have any clean bowls at the time so they gave me a regular mug which was at least only have the size and charged me full price.When I asked about it she explained and said she would remake it for me but never did, and still charged full price.I can get by all that but my son ordered the buttermilk pancakes and they didn't give him syrup we had to ask not that big of deal, then after he said he was done eating my wife went to sample his pancakes and noticed the middle of the cakes still had batter in them, not cooked fully.My son is only 11 and just didn't know any better he thought because it said buttermilk that that was normal lol, the restaurant took off $6 from the $12 price and gave him a free cookie however, one staffer tried to suggest they may have been a little undercooked I don't appreciate trying to justify it just comes off as a disagreement and there was nothing to dispute.Also if you want to make amends for a partially raw pancake you mark it completely off the bill, especially considering I only got a half coffee ?.If I could go 3.8 I would again our items tasted great just some key misses in decorum.”
“What a great secret location in Monterey...I have been hearing about the hamburgers here since my kids were at Monterey High School...finally got my cheeseburger and fries - SO GOOD!!”
“Fish and chips are delicious, the pint of clam chowder is a must-have as well. The oysters were tasty and fresh, but had bits of shell in them. The restaurant is generally clean and service is wicked fast: ~5mins from order to food on table.”
“The Chile verde breakfast burrito was phenomenal! The whole family liked what they ordered, and it wasn't ridiculously overpriced like a lot of the other places in the area.”
“Gyro bowl is the way to go! My favorite thing there, they pack the bowls enough for two meals. I typically share it wit my son. The chicken is always super tender and loaded with alot of meat. The spicy yogurt sauce is my favorite. The rice is always perfectly cooked and I always get extra rice. The service is always super fast, Its way better option for fast food. Nice and clean inside.”
“It's our first time visiting this place and won't be our last. The food was great but we truly appreciate good customer service and this was amazing and genuine kindness. We'll be back!”
“Chili verde is great! And I absolutely love the homemade flour tortillas! But the burrito now only comes with meat, rice, and beans so anything extra will cost you (cheese, salsa, lettuce, etc). And don’t come here SUPER hungry because they are pretty small, but so is the price.”
“Incredible and accommodating service! Just enough food that we didn't have to bother with takeout. Definitely better than Dennys! I recommend this place for some old school grandma comfort food. Sweet people too!”
“Stopped here because there was a higher rated place in the area that had a line out the door. We decided to try here and agreed the line here should be out the door and around the corner.Had one of their twice baked pistachio beads, a chai tea latte and a kimchi cheddar scone.Everything we got was a knock out of the park. They somehow got flavors that are normally more mild to really stand out. Some of the best bread I've ever had.To put it simply. Bakery do bread good”
“This family has been around a long time.I'm going to them over twenty years. You will not find places like this around anymore very family oriented. Very respectful and very professional at what they do.That's why they've been so successful all these years. Breakfast sandwiches are awesome, Lunch sandwiches are amazing. Solid local place. Thank you. ?”
“Lopez Taqueria in Monterey Bay is a hidden gem for Mexican food enthusiasts. The authentic flavors and mouthwatering dishes make it a must-visit culinary destination. From their flavorful tacos to scrumptious burritos, every bite is a delightful explosion of taste. The friendly and welcoming staff add to the overall dining experience, ensuring you feel right at home. The restaurant's cozy ambiance and attention to detail make it the perfect spot for a delicious and satisfying meal. If you're craving Mexican cuisine that hits all the right notes, Lopez Taqueria is the place to be in Monterey Bay.”
“One of the best bakery’s around Monterey! Excellent service and amazing food. Delicious pastry and cakes! The owners are amazing and very welcoming! Super family oriented place! Make sure to stop by either for some wine or just pastry with sandwich and coffee!”
“Great food, wonderful service. The building was a little older and on the smaller side. There’s no view. But if you’re looking for great food, service and value this is your place.”
29
Crystal Fish
“Delicious food and attentive service. Went in for lunch. The sashimi salad is so fresh and original. Also ordered the sunset roll which was amazing. All the fish was very fresh and well prepared. Will definitely be back.”
“A perfect 5-star experience! The place looks like a pirate ship, which is really cool. Juvann helped us pick our food quickly and suggested some great dishes. The food was the best I've ever had. An amazing visit all around!”
Latest Reviews
“A friend recommended this place and it sure exceeded expectations. Wait staff very friendly and helpful. Breakfast portions were were large, and my husband and I could have split something if we could have agreed on what to eat. Hollandaise sauce was spot on, NOT fake cheesy sauce. Took home leftovers. And the sweets looked so yummy. May have to go back this evening to pick up dessert.”
“My family and I decided to eat breakfast here the other morning and I sure am glad we did! My husband and I ordered two savory crepes while our kids ordered sweet crepes. We all shared, because who doesn’t like a bit of both sweet and savory? Service was excellent and my kids got to watch as the crepes were created. The food was DELICIOUS. I will definitely go back next time I’m in the area! ✨”
“The sort of place you stumble upon, then wonder why everyone isn’t talking about it.The food was divine. A perfect mix of flavours and delicately executed. I especially recommend the Yellowtail Crudo to start, and the lemon olive oil cake to finish.You might struggle to park but there aren’t many better places to eat in Monterey than this!Parking: On site, around the back”
Most Popular Restaurants
“Dustin and Gen were the BEST! My husband and I were celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary dining in the bar area and they provided excellent customer service.Thank you for making our first time experience at your restaurant wonderful.”
“Ordered half dozen oysters, calamari, and spicy shrimp pasta in a red sauce. The vibes are casual but are common to hear crying/loud children due to being close to the aquarium. The pasta wasn’t spicy at all but still tasted good”
“The food was amazing. We were a bit skeptical because the day before we tried two different food places that ended up not being very good. But everything about our meal was delicious here. A great way to end our weekend trip to Monterey!”
“Fantastically fresh seafood. Some of the best we had driving the California coast. The Valet parking was a mess and the drinks were mediocre, but go for the food!”
“I was undecided between the breakfast quesadilla and a benedict. The server, Azeneth, informed me that Wave is renowned for its holiday sauce, so I opted for the heirloom tomato and basil benedict. I requested it with bacon but ultimately removed it. It was exceptionally delectable! I also ordered a caramel latte, which was of exceptional quality, suggesting that they source their coffee locally from a reputable brand. Azeneth provided attentive service throughout my meal. The restaurant is situated in Monterey, directly on the beach, offering a picturesque setting. I indulged in a delightful Italian fillo. If you are considering a breakfast visit, I wholeheartedly recommend this establishment.Parking: There are a few complimentary parking spaces available at the restaurant's location.”
“Fish and chips are delicious, the pint of clam chowder is a must-have as well. The oysters were tasty and fresh, but had bits of shell in them. The restaurant is generally clean and service is wicked fast: ~5mins from order to food on table.”
“Tarpy's service and food is consistently good. It's one of my wife's and my favorite restaurant in the Monterey area. It's essentially nice during the summer to have lunch on the patio dining area.”
“My wife and I had a great anniversary dinner. Everyone was extremely friendly and attentive, in particular our waiter, Ruben. We had the sea bass and the cioppino and both were very good. We plan on returning and would recommend it. Dress was casual as it is right on Fisherman's Wharf towards the far end.”
“Definetely the place to go with family for a few drink and of you're craving shrimp.... they got lots of it. Most alcoholic drinks come with a souvenir glass or shaker to take home so factor that in when you're buying a few. Great view of the ocean and if you have a Forrest Gump afficionado, they're gonna love the decorations.Kid-friendliness: You can park your stroller outside and it's safe!!!”
“We LOVE Hula’s!! As Tiki Tuesday regulars now, we always come back for the great service (shout out to Dan especially! He is always so warm and friendly and makes great recommendations for specials and favorites!), fun and cozy atmosphere, and excellent food and drinks. I have never had a bad experience in all the times of coming here, and I always recommend the Godzilla tots and a Dr. Funk to all that come to Monterey. I also really appreciate the vegan options that they have as it can be difficult to accommodate my dietary needs with my friends and family who aren’t always also vegetarian or vegan. Thank you Hula’s team!!”
“Cool little spot specializing in pasta, with a seafood centric menu. Stopped here after the aquarium. Service was phenomenal, nice childrens menu for the little ones, and pretty fun cocktail list. I got the special, chipotle honey chicken pasta it was really good. My wife got the chicken parm. Very generous servings. Highly recommend if you’re in the area.Kid-friendliness: Very kid friendlyWheelchair accessibility: Elevator to second floor”
“Absolutely amazing place. I never had to ask for refills on anything, the food was fantastic and authentic, very original with a mom and pop kind of twist. Definitely going to see them again.”
“Absolutely LOVE this place. I had the crab and shrimp omelette with a Lou Mosa. I would recommend you come early so you can enjoy your breakfast with a beautiful view. Best Breakfast in Monterey!!!! The atmosphere is fun and warm and exciting every time I come.”
“Stopped by here before boarding for whale watching, waited on by Shanel in the bar. She was delightful and let us know a big party just came in and we may have a bit of a wait...we only waited for about 10 minutes and our food was bagged and "boat" ready. Fish sandwich and fries were delicious, will definitely be back to explore the menu! Four stars only because the gentlemen host in the front was very standoffish, maybe because we were ordering to go, nevertheless not very welcoming.”
“The food is absolutely amazing, especially for the price. I haven't been able to find a better quesabirria taco in Monterey. The service is always very friendly, they're more stand-off-ish so if you don't like casual dining this might not be your place to go. They're very nice though. They ALWAYS have good music playing. There aren't a whole lot of tables so be cautious about visiting while they're busy. Fortunately this is a great to-go meal! I highly recommend this restaurant to any resident or traveler alike!”
“Fantastic French cafe eats and coffee drinks. The setting is so Van Gogh. Perhaps it has views of the water from the unaccessible upper floors but it’s a quaint little place and is part of Monterey’s eclectic make-up. If you have a B’day coming up their French cakes are divine too.”