Restaurants in Monterey

Best Restaurants

Parker-Lusseau Pastries 539 Hartnell St, Monterey Cafe • $$
539 Hartnell St, Monterey

“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.”

4.7 Superb154 Reviews
Coastal Kitchen 400 Cannery Row, Monterey Seafood • $$$$
400 Cannery Row, Monterey

“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”

4.6 Superb200 Reviews
Stokes Adobe restaurant 500 Hartnell St, Monterey American • $$$
500 Hartnell St, Monterey

“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”

4.5 Superb310 Reviews
Old Fishermen's Grotto 39 Fishermans Wharf, Monterey Seafood • $$
39 Fishermans Wharf, Monterey

“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.”

4.6 Superb429 Reviews
The Sardine Factory 701 Wave St, Monterey Seafood • $$$
701 Wave St, Monterey

“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”

4.3 Superb443 Reviews
alejandro's 474 Alvarado St, Monterey Mexican • $$
474 Alvarado St, Monterey

“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.”

4.4 Superb114 Reviews

Restaurants by Cuisine

Café Fina 47 Fishermans Wharf #1, Monterey Seafood • $$
47 Fishermans Wharf #1, Monterey

“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.”

4.6 Superb212 Reviews
Manasiri’s Crepes & sandwiches 321 Alvarado St, Monterey Creperies • $$
321 Alvarado St, Monterey

“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! ✨”

4.8 Superb99 Reviews
Cella Restaurant & Bar 525 Polk St, Monterey American • $$$$
525 Polk St, Monterey

“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.”

4.6 Superb174 Reviews

Restaurants with Delivery

Rosine's Restaurant 434 Alvarado St, Monterey American • $$
434 Alvarado St, Monterey

“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.”

4.4 Superb787 Reviews
Alvarado Street Brewery 426 Alvarado St, Monterey Brewpubs • $$
426 Alvarado St, Monterey

“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.”

4.2 Good146 Reviews
the C restaurant + bar 750 Cannery Row, Monterey Seafood • $$$
750 Cannery Row, Monterey

“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”

4.5 Superb143 Reviews

Outdoor Dining

Sandbar & Grill Municipal Wharf 2, Monterey Seafood • $$
Municipal Wharf 2, Monterey

“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.”

4.4 Superb258 Reviews

14
Montrio

Montrio 414 Calle Principal, Monterey American • $$$
414 Calle Principal, Monterey

“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.”

4.1 Good391 Reviews
The Wine Experience 381 Cannery Row, Monterey Wine Bar • $$
381 Cannery Row, Monterey

“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.”

4.8 Superb47 Reviews

Online Reservation Available

A Taste of Monterey - Wine Market & Bistro 700 Cannery Row KK, Monterey Wine Bar • $$
700 Cannery Row KK, Monterey

“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.”

4.5 Superb87 Reviews
Siamese Bay Restaurant 131 Webster St, Monterey Thai • $$
131 Webster St, Monterey

“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 : )”

4.4 Superb136 Reviews
Whaling Station Steakhouse 763 Wave St, Monterey Steak House • $$$
763 Wave St, Monterey

“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.”

4.3 Superb273 Reviews

24 Hour Restaurants

“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.”

4.3 Superb261 Reviews
Peter B’s Brewpub Two Portola Plaza, Monterey Brewery • $$
Two Portola Plaza, Monterey

“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.”

4.5 Superb74 Reviews
Zab Zab Thai Cuisine 401 Lighthouse Avenue, Monterey Thai • $$
401 Lighthouse Avenue, Monterey

“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.”

4.5 Superb73 Reviews

Takeout Restaurants

Osteria Al Mare 32 Cannery Row STE G, Monterey Italian • $$
32 Cannery Row STE G, Monterey

“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.”

4.4 Superb108 Reviews

23
EPSILON

EPSILON 422 Tyler St, Monterey Greek • $$
422 Tyler St, Monterey

“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”

4.5 Superb66 Reviews
Namaste India Bistro 538 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey Indian • $$
538 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey

“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!”

4.4 Superb97 Reviews

Drive-Thru Restaurants

Perfectly Pressed Monterey 491 Alvarado St, Monterey Juice • $$
491 Alvarado St, Monterey

“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.”

4.7 Superb38 Reviews
Duffy's Tavern & Family Restaurant 282 High St, Monterey Family • $$
282 High St, Monterey

“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.”

4.5 Superb60 Reviews
Bistro Moulin 867 Wave St, Monterey European • $$$
867 Wave St, Monterey

“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!!”

4.4 Superb85 Reviews

Cheap Eats

Monterey's Fish House 2114 Del Monte Ave, Monterey Seafood • $$
2114 Del Monte Ave, Monterey

“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.”

4.3 Superb153 Reviews
Crystal Fish 514 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey Sushi • $$
514 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey

“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.”

4.3 Superb138 Reviews
The Crown & Anchor 150 W Franklin St, Monterey Pubs • $$
150 W Franklin St, Monterey

“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!”

4.3 Superb131 Reviews

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