31 Best American Restaurants in 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“

“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“

“We had the greatest experience dining at the Sardine Factory of Monterey on our 22nd wedding anniversary. We enjoyed mango sorbet, served on beautifully lit ice swans, before our main courses, which simply added to our fantastic evening under the sky in the all glass Conservatory Room. Our waitress Marissa was happy, professional and knowledgeable. The sommelier Dave was so very kind and quite knowledgeable in wines and the Monterey region. We had a wonderful surprise visit from Sunjeev, who is an honored and award winning waiter that's been providing the greatest of service there for near 46 years now. Thank you Sardine Factory, owners and staff. You truly filled our evening with wonderful memories and opulence. Much love, Bill and Sara“

“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“

“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.“

“Has been here for years, with a great reputation that needs nothing from me. Extensive menu with lots of choices. A destination spot in the center of Monterey.But, the cakes!! Unlimited choices- all above average. I recommend the chocolate - moist and one of the best I've ever had.Cookies and pies as well.Solid staff, nice seats, all good.“

“Amazing restaurant here in Monterey! Fantastic atmosphere and delicious food. Excellent service! Love it! Make sure you make reservation cause this place is packed and definitely a hidden gem! Loved they could make me a personalized drink on my request and I definitely appreciated it. We will be back!“

“Pros: The service was impeccable. Shoutout to everyone we were in contact with esp Christopher and Michelle. The atmosphere was really pleasant. The almost Paloma cocktail was really nice. I love that they are trying to do farm to table and focus on local and high quality proteins and veg. The short rib on the kids menu was such an amazing deal for my kids and so generous. And a favorite all the way around. The New York steak was really good. Potatoes so light don’t know how they do it. The scallop entree (if you love scallops was good but not great)Cons: the rest of the cocktails were not that creative or balanced. They could use a refresh on the cocktail menu. The risotto was not a fav. Normally we choose rice over potatoes. Go with the mash potatoes pure perfection. The scallop starter was interesting but not in a good way. Sliced way too thick and the “sauce” felt like a simple pour of tamari so it was a miss. The crab cakes were a little fishy and a little heavy and they’ve been done so much unless you’re doing something special why even serve them. For reference being based in Maui, HI were going to places like Morimotos for seafood or mama’s fish house so we are a little spoiled but still, from the reviews we expected a little more. All in all I give it a five because they were quick to fix anything we needed. Most of our food choices we loved and the service which really makes the experience was spot on. We would come again we’d just be more careful in what we ordered. ??“

“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.“

“Dining at Tarpy’s is much more than a transcending culinary experience… its history is something to ponder… and give thanks for the extraordinary benefits we enjoy today because of those that came before us… make sure to ask for Xavier .. he will take great care of you!! We had to come back!! This time Adam did a great job also!!“

“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.“

“EXCEPTIONAL! We arrived almost by chance at this place attached to the Monterey garrison and it was a fantastic surprise! Authentic and welcoming place in a US Army but extremely familiar atmosphere! It would feel like we were eating at home if it weren't for the fact that we tasted the best burger we've tried so far in the States! The owner is an exquisite person…! highly recommended!“

“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.“

“We go here for breakfast frequently. The food meets my partners expectations which are high and the service is reasonable considering it is usually one gal that handles the entire restaurant. Outdoor seating is nice but service outside is a bit more challenging. We feel comfortable and just ask if we need something.Parking: There is a small lot for parking but space also on the street most of the time.“

“HUGE menu, lots of favorites, and the specials are great! Kitchen is pretty on-point and food comes out quickly and as expected.Huge fan of their breakfast menu. Diner feel, but the atmosphere makes it much more welcoming and comfortable.Wheelchair accessibility: No issues for wheelchairs.“

“This place is so yummmyyy!!! We came on a weekend trip to Monterey and decided to eat here. Service was great! My boyfriend and I came on a Sunday at around 8ish maybe 8:30ish and it wasn’t too packed. Shortly after, families did start arriving and it got busier. Regardless, we still got served our food in a timely manner and would definitely come again! Their outside seating is perfect! They have heaters and a fire setting that’s not super big but it’ll keep you warm. It’s also dog friendly which was cute!“

“Great place! Spotlessly clean, modern vibe, view from the big windows can't be beatService was friendly, fast and efficient.The food was great, if you go you have to try the blue cheese steak bites. Wow. Clam chowder was also goodWe both had salads, hers a wedge, me a salmon Mediterranean salad, they were both delicious.We will definitely go back on our next trip to Monterey“

“My group had the best experience at the Monterey cookhouse. The brisket dip is probably the best thing I ate the whole weekend, but everything here was delicious and reasonably priced. Make sure you save room to order dessert! Staff is great, the outdoor seating area has a great ambiance. Definitely recommend.“

“Flight to SFO was delayed for 2 hours. We had to find some food and chose here. Food was at a good portion and cooked right. For airport food, it wasn’t bad not all. A little bit pricey of course. If you don’t mind the noise, you can sit outside and watch the planes takeoff and land.“

“We visited this restaurant during Easter. We ordered Full Moon seafood, Mu shu pork and potsticker. All were very tasty. Portions are quite big, enough to feed two adults and 2 kids. Price was also very reasonable with an excellent service. Overall good dining experience“

“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“

“I like this place. The food is tasty, the service is friendly, and the ambience is family friendly. The fam and I stopped by here while visiting downtown and we're very satisfied. Is it culinary genius and the pinnacle of fine fine dining? No. But it doesn't need to be. It's just a very solid and consistent restaurant; the kind that I could see myself coming back to again and again. Good stuff!“

“Love the food and the menu! We stayed in the hotel for 2 weeks, for relief from the heat where we live in Arizona. We ate here many nights and most mornings (where they have a great breakfast buffet or menu). The food was always fresh and delicious! Wonderful service and a fun bar too!“

“This place is the place to go and hangout with family and friends. It's cozy, and has many things to do. There is a reading corner with books, you can play loteria, and even listen to cassettes.The service was great and the food is really good as well.They brought the check in a CD case so it was really cool.“

“As a lifelong resident of the Monterey Peninsula, I've been eating here for years and I am always happy to have Raphael as my Server.Raphael is very professional and provides excellent service, with a smile, because he is a very nice guy and very good at what he does.Thank again for everything Raphael !“

“My wife and I go there at least once a month. Last night the place was hopping, busier than usual, Big Sur marathon weekend I guess. We were seated quickly and the server promptly took our order. Drinks and food came out quickly and were fabulous. We will definitely return soon. Only down side is it's quite loud( being a sports bar I guess) but not unbearable“

“We hired Urban Kitchen Catering & Events for a corporate group of 90 ppl traveling from all over Europe to Monterey. They were so amazing from start to end. Rene, Bethany with staff was wonderful to work with and created a very special experience for the group. The food was also spot on! We will definitely work with them again. /Mice Coordinator at Go West Tours“

“What a nice surprise! This restaurant had a Mexican vibe, and we wish there were more Mexican dishes on the menu. We had a burrito bowl and a steak quesadilla, and both were delicioso! The wait staff were attentive and kept our drinks filled.“

“This bar and grill is wonderful. It's beautiful and the food was delicious. Savanah, who served us at the grill, then the bar, was fabulous. She was friendly and professional and made the best lemon drop ever! She made the place extra special!“

“Great food and service!?? The calamari was great. The fish and chips and prawns and chips was very yummy. We enjoyed a crab cake and drinks! Definitely recommend this place to eat. Sit down and enjoy. Also outside dining was very nice and inside dining is great. Bathrooms are very nice.“

“I got the salad bar to-go, and they gave me a large box and a cup for some soup. The salad bar had good options, and the clam chowder was delicious. Really glad we got a chance to pick up some work lunch here, and I will definitely look for a chance to return.“