“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“
“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“
“While visiting California and driving up the coast on Mother’s Day we planned to stop in Monterey Bay for dinner and landed on Fish Hopper. We were able to make a reservation about 45 minutes away to secure a table right away. We ordered two servings of the clam chowder which was without a doubt the best clam chowder we’ve ever had. Attaching “award winning” to the menu name was appropriate. Biggest regret was only getting a cup instead of a bowl. For entrees we had the fish & chips and sesame crusted mahi mahi. Dessert was a cookie sundae and coconut cake. Everything was delicious. We left completely stuffed but satisfied. Next time we are in the area we will definitely be back!“
“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.“
“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 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.“
“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“
“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.“
“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.“
“I have gone to this restaurant several times and have always been happy with my experience. Sam (who I think is the owner) is very friendly. I remember one Christmas when plans changed and we wanted to eat at Siamese Bay. They were about to close, but sat us anyway, and took good care of us! I highly recommend this place! Great food and atmosphere!“
“Great experience at Schooners on the patio overlooking the water. Our waiter, Jacob, was very attentive and made great recommendations. Clam chowder in a bread bowl was excellent, Thai style curry mussels were delicious and the ceviche was good but not great. The fish tacos were tasty and the fried chicken sandwich was flavorful and unique. Would definitely dine there again.“
“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.“
“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.“
“We were in Monterey on a work trip last week. The week before we were in Washington DC and I had a conversation with a woman who worked in SF as a Social Security judge. When I told her we were heading to Monterey the first place she told us to go was The Monterey Fish House. "You have to go!"The trip happened to fall on my husband's birthday, so we went that evening early with no reservations. If you want to get in before the dinner rush my advice is to get there before 6 pm. After that people start pouring through the door and many wait at the bar or outside waiting for a table.The restaurant itself is very intimate, comfortable and friendly. It's very clean and decorated without being at all pretentious. The staff are incredibly attentive and responsive, you'll want for nothing even if the place is full.We were excited for a great dinner for my guy's birthday, and we weren't disappointed. We started out with oak grilled oysters on the half-shell (AMAZING. Found out the they were Hama Hama oysters grown right where we live, we enjoy these oysters every summer up here in the PNW! Excellent choice!) and crab cakes (absolutely delicious). We followed up with grilled artichoke and seafood pasta and oak grilled sea bass with vegetables and pasta. To say both dishes were amazing is an understatement. The white sauce over the artichoke/seafood pasta blew me away. The seafood included was scallops, clams, mussels and prawns. All fresh and delicious. My husband's sea bass was great, we shared bites of each other's dishes. The portions were very generous, the wait for food was fast. The presentation was great, really top-notch.I have to thank our waiter Tony, he was so good at his job. He often checked in to see how we were doing. The other gentleman (who's name I didn't get) was also incredibly attentive and kind. He heard my husband mention that it was his birthday and pretty soon our chocolate mousse came out with a birthday candle and the entire wait staff singing "Happy Birthday." A wonderful and memorable night!We also chatted with a couple of gents from Ireland on a road trip up the California Coast. We loved the conversation between bites.We did come back the day before we went home and had another incredible dinner. All the same raves as above. Our chatting partners this time were a couple of lovely local ladies, a mom and daughter, celebrating the birthday of their husband/father who had the birthday of 04/04/1924. I would be very happy if my relatives we celebrate my birthday every year at The Monterey Fish House to remember me!Until we visit again, thank you!!! ❤️❤️❤️????❤️❤️❤️“
“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 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!!“
“This review is long overdue!! I ended catching a gnarly sickness while prego and wasn't able to post a review until way later. This place has such a stellar view of the ocean in Monterey! We went on a rainy day, but even still it was such a cool experience seeing the boats and ocean nearby. Our servers were super great and kept coming around to check on the table. The portions were huge for the cost, and the lunch specials were a steal! My mouth is still watering for the teriyaki steak. I highly recommend coming on Saturday for a relaxing afternoon. On top of it all, they have some great lunch specials. I highly recommend this spot“
“Food was great, but the portions were a bit small for $25.00+ plates. The staff and restaurant itself were so nice and friendly, big thumbs up to them!Parking: Parking is massive and cheapKid-friendliness: Staff were very friendly and professional with kids“
“Nice experience for a late lunch on a cold and windy day. Food was probably unhealthy (calamari, cod sandwich, clam chowder) but really good. Coffee was freshly made and surprisingly strong for American standards. The waiter was friendly, helpful with tips for our planned route to San Luis Obispo, and reasonably quick without rushing us.“
“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“
“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.“
“I ordered macadamia fish, it comes with broccoli and mashed potatoes, they were so good, I finished my whole plate. I also like their kids menu that has healthy food options, grilled salmon and steak etc. my kids enjoyed their salmon with rice! Overall, it’s a great restaurant. Not a rip off restaurant to scam tourists!“
“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.“
“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“
“Holy crap this place is amazing! The food was delicious and every bite had so much flavor in it! I had the gnocchi and I just don't understand how they made it so fluffy! 10/10 would recommend. Our server was also absolutely amazing. He checked up on us often and was really helpful and even made a few jokes.“
“We came in Monterey for 4 nights and 5 days and spend money at different expensive restaurants but I’m glad we tried it here and would like to inform everyone that this place is small, cheap and delicious specially their Fried Calamari is the best ???“
“Average poke shop, was a bit taken back that they charge for seaweed salad when most other shops do not charge for it. Good flavors, large portions - a small bowl (2 scoops) was too much for me to finish. Service was good. Inside/outside seating available, gender neutral restroom was clean.“
“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!!!“
“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 went here for a light lunch last week and was very pleased. I had a nice table overlooking the bay, ships, and I got to see an otter swim on by. I had the Caesar salad with chicken and it was good.The service was attentive and the atmosphere was enjoyable... and of course the views!“
“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.“