Best Restaurants & Places in Monterey

33 Best Restaurants & Places in Monterey, CA | 2024 (Top Eats!)

ByKashish Jamal Hashmi

Monterey holds America’s many firsts, like being the founding ground of theatre, opening well-facilitated public schools, and establishing the first printing press all over California. Despite its many historic ventures into several aspects of professionalism, it also has become a resident of some of the most spectacular diners in the city.

The outstanding array of seafood dishes that are available here, along with its luxuriously designed restaurants, offers people a hideout into the cozy atmosphere that it delivers.

Therefore if you are in the mood to experience the most organic form of seafood dishes, then this place should be your ideal food destination as it also gives people a peek into the cuisines of international flavors. So let’s take a look at some of the best place to eat through various exceptional Monterey restaurants to unravel the many flavors that are yet to be tasted.

Table of Contents

Best Restaurants in Monterey

1. Compagno’s Market & Deli

Compagno's Market & Deli

Why it’s a must visit?

The Compagno’s Market and Deli is a delightful neighborhood diner that serves people traditional sandwiches and crispy chips.

The humble aesthetic of this regional restaurant has made it one of the top restaurants to visit in the city.

The infrastructure at this restaurant got made in a faded fashion, with a modest store-like interior that stays true to its cultural value and offers people a getaway into the traditional atmosphere of Monterey.

Also, its suitable location in the heart of the city makes it a perfect place to visit after exploring its many colorful neighborhoods.

Chef’s Choice

The sandwiches at this restaurant are a classic dish and are the most significant highlight here, which are ordered frequently by people who are its loyal patrons.

So when it comes to deciding between their many delicious sandwiches, their torpedo, and Italian sausage sandwich takes the prime position due to its many busting flavors.

Also, their Coast Guard particular is another spectacular dish to consider ordering due to its use of many unique spices.

2. Montrio Bistro

Montrio Bistro

Why it’s a must visit?

The Montorio Bistro restaurant is an extravagant diner that serves people gourmet new American cuisine through its innovative take on several comfort food dishes and exquisite wine, all inside a converted firehouse.

Therefore if you’re looking for a luxurious dining experience in the soul of the city, then you must give this lovely storefront diner a visit due to its upscale atmosphere.

The bistro holds a spacious setting with dimly lit walls that got adorned with massive artworks and a white-clothed table with marbled tiles in a stylish and contemporary atmosphere that adds to its overall fancy and makes it ideal for celebrating romantic dinner nights.

One can begin their feast with their decadent onion soup gratinee and Hiromasa Crudo as a warm starter option for an appetizer effect.

Chef’s Choice

Following this flavorsome appetizer, you can order their Orecchiette Salsiccia, which you get served with broccoli as your main course as a fulfilling meal.

The side dish that comes along with these exquisite meals makes the entire dinner a lot more exciting and tasty.

3. Bistro Moulin

Bistro Moulin

Why it’s a must visit?

The bistro Moulin is a local contemporary restaurant that delivers the most impressive selections of French cuisine and wine collections.

This French-inspired deli is one of the top-rated restaurants to try in the city, mostly crediting to its minimalist and upscale atmosphere and decadent French food choices.

It features a personal space with comfy furnishings and a bright atmosphere in a spellbinding location to celebrate thrilling lunch dates and special reunions with friends.

Chef’s Choice

Follow the French way by trying out light appetizers first, like their Gnocchi Aux Expinards and a delicious bowl of Gratin A Lóignon.

As your main entree, there’s steak bordelaise which gets served with a generous plate of pommel Frites and Raratatouille is a fascinating pick.

All of the dishes here are made with rich ingredients and therefore are ideal if you want a luxurious diner experience.

4. Esteban Restaurant

Esteban Restaurant

Why it’s a must visit?

The Esteban Restaurant restaurant is a fashionable diner located in a luxurious resort serving delicious Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine,

One gets to enjoy a warm atmosphere here made in a hotel-like fashion and has got awarded as one of the most sophisticated diners in the state for several years.

The hallway of the restaurant got made in a subtle and simplistic design with light-colored themes like beiges, wood, and creams that make it immersing and eye-catching.

It also displays people an option to either dine indoors or outdoors in; the outdoor setting offers people a spectacular view of the wood garden, which sits under the faint direct sunlight that comes from its canopy.

Chef’s Choice

One can start with their delicious crispy pulpo or taste the classic dish named patatas bravas as delicate starter options.

As for the main dish, their El Rancho Paella will relish your palate in the most sensational form.

A glass of their siesta thyme sampled with their main course will leave you looking forward to more due to its exuberant flavors.

5. Crystal Fish

Crystal Fish

Why it’s a must visit?

The crystal fish restaurant is a simplistic sushi restaurant famous for its sweet beverage sake, rolls, sushi choices, and other Japanese menu options.

This cozy Japanese food joint is a beloved pick of many people and is known for its happy ambiance and traditional food choices, which gets served in an authentic manner.

It’s effortless to try there several innovative dishes here without getting overwhelmed, as the whole place is designed in a modest way and has an incredibly welcoming atmosphere.

Chef’s Choice

For your starters, go for their agedashi tofu, Gaozu, and Chashu pork belly as mouthwatering appetizer choices.

Following that, get a bite of their few sashimi rolls and sushi, especially there’s notable picks like tropical mango roll, smoked salmon nigiri, shrooms malicious rolls, Amaebi nigiri, and a rejuvenating bottle of sake to get a wholesome Japanese cuisine experience.

As a finishing delight, in the end, grab their mochi ice cream as a toothsome dessert option.

6. Loulou’s Griddle In The Middle

Loulou's Griddle In The Middle

Why it’s a must visit?

The Loulou’s Griddle In The Middle restaurant is one of the best family restaurants Monterey, renowned for its fantastic array of seafood dishes and special morning meals.

One can begin their feast in the most charming manner by getting a bite of their hearty breakfast choices as it’s a famous restaurants local hub spot that is known for its comfortable seating and its option to dine outdoors.

The dishes here are decadent as they get made in a familiar cooking technique with simple ingredients.

Chef’s Choice

Almost every breakfast option here offers people a refreshing start for the day as its suitable location near several resorts offers travelers and tourists a good outtake service for their further exploration of the city.

So when it comes to deciding on rejuvenating breakfast options, you can try a plate of their saltwater grazer, which is a perfect morning meal option.

One also pairs their saltwater freezer dish with a classic side dish of their fish and chips basket, which further goes exceedingly well with a bottle of beer.

7. Hula’s Island Grill

Hula's Island Grill

Why it’s a must visit?

The Hula’s Island Grill restaurant is a charming themed restaurant taking inspiration from tiki influence and delivering people decadent California cuisine with several colorful cocktails.

If you’re searching for the nicest places to eat in Monterey, which also has a vibrant atmosphere and is super exciting and fun, then this place is your go-to destination due to its frivolous hospitality.

The restaurant has a cyberpunk theme with neon lights, quirky glasses, surprisingly innovative cocktail mixes, and a special plate presentation that makes anyone go crazy with its hipster aura.

Chef’s Choice

Their Avalone-style calamari steak and Kona-styled chicken wings can make a great starter option as they have an exquisite taste with a delicate texture.

Besides their starter option, the jungle tofu bowl is another spectacular main course dish that you can give a try with no disappointments.

If you further wish to expand your palate taste, then consider pairing your jungle tofu bowl with their lovely macadamia nut-encrusted tuna to get a wholesome feast.

8. Old Monterey Cafe

Old Monterey Cafe

Why it’s a must visit?

The old Monterey café is an adorable family-owned local restaurant that is known for serving hearty midday and morning meals.

It’s a great place to have a simple brunch with your family or your pals while also enjoying the cozy atmosphere that it exhibits.

Its Minimalist interior with white walls, framed decor, and light-colored wood furnishing makes the entire place look a lot more vibrant and atmospheric, which is perfect for looking forward to a refreshing day ahead.

Chef’s Choice

One of the best things that you can try here is their corn beef hash which gets served with a dual dish of eggs and toast as a perfect breakfast meal.

Other than their main breakfast dish, you can also give their old Monterey banana pancakes a try if you’re craving something sweet and toothsome.

Also, make sure that you don’t forget to try a glass of their fresh orange juice which will further give you an energy boost for the rest of your day.

9. Wave Street Cafe

Wave Street Cafe

Why it’s a must visit?

The Wave Street Café is another new American restaurant that offers people superb midday and morning breakfast meal options with energizing beverage options like coffee and wine.

It is located on the east side of Monterey and is known for serving the best lunches in the city, credited to its alfresco dining theme.

The restaurant also has a breathtaking romantic garden mansion which further adds to its overall fancy along with its gourmet breakfast options.

Chef’s Choice

One can get to taste almost every flavor here with their toothsome wave street combo platter, which displays a vast array of breakfast options like pancakes, sausages, eggs, and potatoes, all available in one platter.

The myriad of breakfast options that gets provided on one platter makes the entire brunch a lot more satisfying and budget-friendly.

As it’s a café, its beverages have no rival, especially if you give their delicious Ghirardelli hot chocolate cup a try, which contains the most memorable flavors of Choco powders.

10. Rosine’s Restaurant

Rosine's Restaurant

Why it’s a must visit?

The Rosine’s restaurant is a family-oriented diner delivering its Guests traditional American dishes with decadent dessert options too.

It’s a delightful restaurant to visit if you’re searching for an elegant dining experience as you spend your time away at this café.

The aesthetic of this restaurant’s interior is charming with dark wood furnishings, which contrast incredibly nicely with their light-colored walls and greenery space that, makes the overall dinner a lot more pleasant and heartwarming.

It’s a beautiful place for social media users who want to take aesthetic snapshots for their Instagram feed as the dessert options, especially their pastries, are displayed behind a transparent glass that looks genuinely breathtaking.

Chef’s Choice

Some lovely choices that you can try here are their loaded potato skin which goes exceptionally well with their sweet and spicy wings and drumettes.

To get a taste of more distinct flavors, you can also give their Wedge salad a try before ordering a special plate from their California club.

Sampling their California club dish with their mouthwatering Caprese pasta will refresh your taste buds in the most exquisite sense.

11. Whaling Station Steakhouse

Whaling Station Steakhouse

Why it’s a must visit?

The whaling station steakhouse is a globally well-pronounced steakhouse serving people high-quality meat choices with flavorsome seafood dishes and a variety of pasta choices all in one restaurant.

It’s an unforgettable truth that one will get to experience a remarkable dining adventure here due to its superb food Monterey choices and breathtaking aesthetic.

The striking interior and exterior of this restaurant with light green and orange colored themed infrastructure makes anyone feel as if they are royalty getting high-end treatment.

Also, their servers are professional and courteous and get dressed in superb uniforms delivering people A-graded dishes that feel luxurious and elegant in one sense.

Chef’s Choice

The best way you can warm your tummy with a delicious dish here is by getting a bowl of their Monterey clam chowder, which is a perfect starter course for anyone looking forward to a fruitful feast.

Following this unique dish, one can continue their feast with their delicious Pancetta wrapped grilled scallops as another starter option.

After that, it would be a wise choice to consider pairing their petite filet mignon with their boiled asparagus and roasted Padron peppers as sprinkled spices.

Also See – Restaurants open for Thanksgiving dinner in Monterey, CA

12. Sandbar & Grill

Sandbar & Grill

Why it’s a must visit?

Sandbar and Grill restaurant is a waterfront diner and a small sidebar known for its decadent seafood choices and stunning Marina views from its balconies.

Even though this restaurant got made in a modest style, it’s still beloved by many local people who like to visit this restaurant frequently for its spectacular views alone.

So if you’re a huge fan of marine life, and would like to experience an unforgettable visit near a soothing waterfront, then this place is your best bet as it caters to all your fantasies.

Chef’s Choice

One can enjoy their several delicious seafood dishes by first trying their unique prawn cocktails, which come with a mouthwatering prawn aroma.

Also, by pairing your prawn cocktail with their exquisite  Classic Caesar salad, you will experience a sudden rush of busting flavors in your palate due to its exceptional sampling.

After all the pairing and sampling, go for their appetizing Sandbar Cioppino with a fresh dish of oysters.

13. Crown & Anchor

Crown & Anchor

Why it’s a must visit?

The Crown and anchor restaurant is an exciting British pub delivering traditional bar-styled dishes with a fantastic range of refined beer options.

This particular pub isn’t just a good server of some of the tastiest and most appetizing dishes in Monterey but is also exceedingly distinct in how it’s designed and laid out.

The inside of this restaurant features a conventional English bar with dark decorations, a stylish square bar, and other British features which stay true to its cultural value.

Overall, it’s the ultimate fancy place to visit with your friends if you want to drink some heavy beers with expertly mixed flavors.

Chef’s Choice

The curry potato wedges and flavorful New Zealand green shell mussels will act as great starter options for you due to their many rainbow flavors.

But if you’re here for a fulfilling meal that feels satisfying, then their plate of Shannon’s corned beef will cease all your cravings with one bite.

If you still feel that you can take on some more meals, then their cabbage plate with a side dish of mashed potatoes will prove as an incredible alternative meal for you.

14. Sea Harvest Restaurant & Fish Market

Sea Harvest Restaurant & Fish Market

Why it’s a must visit?

The Sea Harvest restaurant and Fish market, as the name implies, is a vibrant market and diner specializing in serving fresh seafood dishes made with local ingredients in an organic way.

It’s a unique diner among the many restaurants in Monterey as it just doesn’t serve food but also is a bright marketplace that sells the freshest catches of the sea in budget-friendly options.

By visiting this restaurant, one not only gets to feast on their many scrumptious seafood dishes but also gets to shop on their several seafood varieties with no extra hassle.

Chef’s Choice

We would suggest that you keep your feast simple by giving their half-shell oysters a try, along with a flavorful cup of clam chowder and an additional dish of fish and chips basket as your entire main meal course.

If you feel that these dishes are not enough for your tummy, then you can fill yourself up more with their seafood pasta which is sure to make you feel fulfilled and satisfied after you finish the plate.

15. Old Fisherman’s Grotto

Old Fisherman's Grotto

Why it’s a must visit?

The old Fisherman’s grotto is a fine diner located in the old Fisherman’s wharf, serving people the most exquisite take on various seafood classics along with stunning waterfront views from its edge.

The interior of the restaurant is made in a faint and light fashion with bright yellow colored walls with several patterns.

Even though one might find the place to be overwhelming, it’s not true at all as its interiors offer people the most romantic venture with its big clear walls of windows in the vicinity of the water views along with a leather boot beside it, makes the overall atmosphere a lot more romantic and immersing.

Chef’s Choice

One can get the most exciting feast of their life by ordering the particular crab meat tower with a cup of their Monterey-style clam chowder which is an exquisite combination that deserves to be mentioned and tried.

Following that, a bite of their Sand dabs which comes with crispy caramelized onion risotto and mixed veggies, will leave you with a lingering delicious taste that is truly impeccable.

One cannot count their meal to get finished if they forget to try their decadent dessert named warm apple pie, which has a remarkable creamy and soft flavor.

16. Schooners Monterey

Schooners Monterey

Why it’s a must visit?

The Schooners Monterey restaurant is a rich seafood diner located inside a luxurious Monterey Plaza Hotel and spa, which has spread its reputation all over the city for serving modern American fare with spellbinding views of the Monterey bay river.

This stylishly decorated seaside restaurant has become a favorite among many people as it’s one of the best birthday dinners in Monterey, as it features a hipster ambiance with charming decorations.

One almost feels as if they’re on an island vacation at this restaurant as it provides people with eye-catching views of the waters from the insides of their dining halls.

But if you prefer to dine outdoors, then you’re free to eat under their unique patio umbrellas and even beside their fire pit, which got located on the deck, to get a passionate dinner venture.

Chef’s Choice

There’s schooner seafood Tower is a terrific shareable platter option to give a try, which has a beautiful pairing with their coastal clam chowder bread bowl as flavorsome appetizer options.

After trying out their seafood tower, you can relish a dish of their flavorsome teriyaki glazed salmon dish, which gets served with a complementary dish of crispy Crab fried rice.

Eventually, you must consider ordering their special dessert named berries and cream for a sweet finish in the end.

17. C restaurant + Bar

C restaurant + Bar

Why it’s a must visit?

The C restaurant plus bar is a sophisticated seafood diner made in a great sense by sharing its proximity to Monterey Bay with a magnificent view of the river in the intercontinental Clement Monterey.

It’s a relaxed and stylishly designed restaurant that fits well with its overall aesthetic and adds a bit of fancy here and there with its gorgeous high ceilings and crystal clear chandeliers.

One not only gets enamored by its 5-star interior finishes but also gets to experience the pleasant sound of waves with a spectacular view of the river along with its scrumptious seafood dishes, which makes it a terrific place for dinner dates.

Chef’s Choice

Begin with a refreshing dish of their chilled oysters which have an excellent taste, especially when it’s sampled with their gem lettuce wedge salad.

Following that, relish their Pacific swordfish with a complementary plate of fingerling potato lyonnaise along with Brussel sprouts which make up for a truly fantastic feast.

In the end, finish your meal with their flavorful baked banaska, which has an exquisite sweetness to it.

18. Turn 12

Turn 12

Why it’s a must visit?

The Turn 12 restaurant is a roadway-inspired pub and barbecue restaurant delivering traditional American cuisine with impressive drinks.

This restaurant has a chill atmosphere to it which is perfect for a memorable hang-out with your friends, especially during late night drive-ins.

Also, its menu options with familiar dishes make it one of the cool places to eat in the city as it also features a raceway-inspired theme enraptured in its interior.

The colors here contrast nicely with each other with suave red, jet black, and monochrome shades, which are perfect for a sophisticated road-like experience with motorcycles and other mobiles hanging on the ceilings, which makes anyone enamored with this unusual beauty and excellence.

Chef’s Choice

One can start with some simple dishes like their unique beers, which come with roasted mac & cheese, lamb lollipops, Guacamole and chips, and delicious margarita flatbread as excellent appetizing options.

As the beers here are the particular highlight, they go perfectly well with the comfort Monterey food choices which gets offered here.

But if you’re here for a heavy meal, then nothing could beat their Turn 12 burger, which is their most notable highlight here.

19. Passionfish – Pacific Grove

Passionfish - Pacific Grove

Why it’s a must visit?

The Passionfish restaurant is an adorable and modern eatery delivering people an exquisite array of Californian-style seafood dishes with impressive wine selections.

While dining in Monterey, one gets to experience a personal space without any interruptions.

It’s one of those places that is ideal if you want to have quiet conversations with your significant other or hold business meetings in soundproof rooms.

Even though it has a small and comfortable setting, one still gets to drool over their aesthetically presented dishes which are also rich in flavors.

Chef’s Choice

Their spicy fish stew and assorted mixed field greens salad gets frequently ordered here as they come with flavorsome seasoning and fresh produce.

Another fascinating pick that deserves to be tried here is their coho salmon which comes with extra veggies like cabbage, onions, and lentils, which are healthy and delicious too.

Their maple banana bread pudding is another impeccable dessert option here which must be given a try as it’s one of the best restaurants near me outtake.

20. Poppy Hall – Pacific Grove

Poppy Hall - Pacific Grove

Why it’s a must visit?

The Poppy Hall restaurant is a simple and modest diner delivering Californian-inspired hearty food selections with an extensive array of wine options. 

The restaurant’s ambiance is super engaging as it offers youngsters a fun hang out here with a separate storefront diner and mouthwatering Californian food.

Though the restaurant might be small, it still has a trendy atmosphere to it due to its contemporary aesthetic, which genuinely excites anyone and makes them feel hugged by its warm atmosphere and thrilling space.

Chef’s Choice

Have a fun dinner night by feasting on their special lighthouse combo dish, which features a warm cup of soup, half size salami sandwich, and their exquisite Poppy salad all in one meal.

If you further wish to accentuate your fantastic dinner night, then a sip of their favorite Sparky’s root beer will take you straight to heaven with its darling flavors.

In a nutshell, if you ever end up craving Californian-inspired dishes and drinks, then this place should hold the top position in your list as it excels in that area.

21. Jeninni Kitchen & Wine Bar – Pacific Grove

Jeninni Kitchen & Wine Bar - Pacific Grove

Why it’s a must visit?

The Jeninni Kitchen & Wine Bar – Pacific Grove restaurant is a casual diner serving people authentic tapas and Mediterranean dishes with an impressive array of wine selections.

This local restaurant has a very modest and modern interior with a minimalist setting that is perfect if you’re looking for something relaxing and calm at the same time.

Just like his overall minimalist interior, the dining hall is also simple and elegant, with rich food choices made from high-quality ingredients.

Chef’s Choice

Some of the most refined dishes that you can try here with authentic Mediterranean flavors are their Tartine, marinated olives, and Chicory salad for a savory feast.

One can also go for the shareable platter of chicken torchon, which gets delivered with a side dish of crispy jeninni fries for a good finish.

In the end, ordering their Affogato, which blends the taste of espresso with vanilla ice cream, will give you a satisfying dessert treat.

22. Cafe Guarani – Pacific Grove

Cafe Guarani - Pacific Grove

Why it’s a must visit?

This Cafe Guarani – Pacific Grove restaurant is a laid-back café delivering people baked good products like empanadas and several beverage options.

It’s made in a super thrilling fashion with a red brick wall and is known for serving the tastiest pastries in town with a sophisticated atmosphere.

Also, the interior is made in a very bright sense which will give me a luxurious feeling as if they’re in a small European town feasting on its many decadent desserts.

Chef’s Choice

Make sure that you try some dishes of their famous traditional empanadas, which comprise several yummy dishes like deep-fried soy Mandioca, baked beef, and ham and cheese, which are authentic  European flavoring.

After that, try their delicious guava Media Luna, which is one of their specialties.

Also, make sure that you pair their guava media Luna with Alfajo and also add the flavors of spicy Guatemalan chocolate syrup for a satisfying finish.

23. Noodle Bar – Seaside

Noodle Bar - Seaside

Why it’s a must visit?

The noodle bar restaurant is an elegant Vietnamese restaurant that practices the policy of hole in the wall of serving classic Vietnamese dishes while keeping its cultural value.

It’s one of the must eat places in the city because of its casual atmosphere, which also serves delicious food near me choices that is sure to sway you away with its flavors.

Even though the restaurant got designed in a humble sense, it’s still worth a try due to its many authentic flavors and generous serving portions that delight anyone who visits this place.

Also, it’s sure to make you feel satisfied and full due to its heavy course meals.

Chef’s Choice

Before trying anything else, one can start either with a vegetarian starter or non-veg options as appetizers as per their preferences.

So if you’re in the mood for something vegetarian and then their spring rolls will suffice for you in the best manner, whereas if you are craving some red meat and finding a place of where to eat, then a bite of their BBQ pork Banh bao will please your palate.

As for the main course, a bowl of their chicken Pho or an alternative dish of Chow Mien will vanish all your cravings with a single bite. 

24. El Cantaro

El Cantaro

Why it’s a must visit?

The El Cantaro restaurant is a haven for anyone who is looking forward to a healthy serving of their beloved Mexican dishes made in the most exquisite sense with authentic recipes.

The Mexican food at this restaurant has no rivals as this diner delivers people not only mouthwatering dishes but also creates them in an organic sense giving them a healthy outlook.

The bright festive atmosphere of the restaurant, with vibrant orange walls, makes the simple diner look a lot more exciting and fun.

Chef’s Choice

When deciding between the many healthy menu options that are available here, make sure that you choose their number two combination plate, which is a shareable platter containing Mexican specialties like spinach and enchilada, black beans, and crispy tacos all in one platter.

Also, an extra serving of their nacho plate will act as a great snack option for you to share with your group at one table.

As a finishing dessert, treat yourself to their special fried plantains and vegan flan for a lingering sweet aftertaste.

25. Flaherty’s Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar

Flaherty's Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar

Why it’s a must visit?

Flaherty’s Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar is a vibrant bar and barbecue restaurant serving people fresh seafood and pasta options.

It has a themed layout it focuses on marine life with floating fishes displayed on the ceilings, an ocean-like atmosphere with blue walls and tiles along with tables adorned with blue napkins that makes the entire dining experience come off as highly relaxing.

One is sure to feel relaxed here as this modest place has a transparent atmosphere with beautiful furnishing details and wonderfully presented dishes.

Chef’s Choice

Their signature dish, which has won the hearts of a lot of people, is their crab cakes which gets prepared with great delicacy and authentic spices.

Whereas if you want to try something award-winning, then their winning lobster bisque will prove to be a delicate appetizer for you to try with soft flavors.

As for the main course, their seafood Mediterranean dish, along with their unique crab tacos, will give you pleasure in every bite due to their many colorful flavors.

26. The General – Marina

The General - Marina

Why it’s a must visit?

The general marina restaurant is a sanctuary for any sports enthusiast as it serves people live entertainment through its LED live streaming of various sports events with exceptional pub-inspired food and drinks.

One gets to chill here with their friends by watching a ball game while also relishing their many delicious comfort food options that add a lot of thrill to the entire atmosphere.

The place is also dimly lit and has a hip vibe to it which makes it the friendliest place to relax and chill with your friends while watching the live stream of many sports games.

Chef’s Choice

As it’s a fine pub, its pub-inspired dishes come in the form of comfort snacks like falafel nuggets, hummus and pita bread, and a half dozen of BBQ wings which are a spectacular choice to consider as fulfilling snack options.

But if you want to try out other things which will leave you satisfied, then grab a plate of their chicken Shawarma with the Tzatziki and a separate side dish of Greek salad as a go-to meal. 

Also, make sure that you don’t forget to pair your snack options with a delicious beer which is the biggest highlight here.

27. Dametra

Dametra

Why it’s a must visit?

The Dimitra is a simple Mediterranean diner delivering people simple recipes made in a blended fashion of contemporary techniques.

This diner is an ideal place to visit if you want to try something exotic and familiar with gratifying flavors.

The restaurant only lets you choose your seat if you order their traditional Mediterranean dishes, which makes the entire service a lot quicker than one can expect.

Chef’s Choice

So when it comes to deciding between the multiple Mediterranean options, their most delicate dish of Gyro plate with the meats of lamb and beef along with a side dish of rice will prove to your fancy with its many fascinating flavors.

Another equally delicious dish that often gets ordered here is their pita bread along with Baba De Beirutand Momma’s Dolma’s, which have a superb spiced flavor to them.

As for the dessert, their single serving of baklava will leave you craving for more.

28. Grasing’s – Carmel

Grasing's - Carmel

Why it’s a must visit?

The Grasing’s restaurant is a vintage luxury diner delivering people modern food choices with several California wine options.

Any food enthusiast will love dining at this beautiful restaurant as it features a perfect intimate space that is great for having interpersonal conversations.

The infrastructure of this diner is made in a European cottage-inspired theme and gives people a nostalgia for dining in the Victorian age through its fancy hallways and decorations.

Its many rich food options will also make you feel pampered with its royal hospitality.

Chef’s Choice

As it’s a luxurious resort, their Charcuterie plate is an extravagant choice to consider giving a thought.

Their other food options, like exotic mushroom frittata, also have a superb taste.

Another fascinating dish that deserves a try here is their charbroiled Angus burger which has a decadent and overflowing cheese taste with special herbs.

29. Cantinetta Luca – Carmel

Cantinetta Luca - Carmel

Why it’s a must visit?

The Cantienetta Luca restaurant is a sophisticated Italian eatery delivering people exquisite Italian dishes like several forms of pasta and pizza with authentic recipes.

It’s considered to be one of the best places to dine in Monterey due to its aromatic flavored dishes and calming interior with charming furnishing details.

The entire diner got intricately designed with beautiful touches that render it with a rustic atmosphere and a particular personal area which makes it an overall lovely pick.

Chef’s Choice

The roasted octopus antipasti is a delightful dish to give a try and goes exceptionally well with their decadent Cornetto Daniele pizza to share with your members at one table.

After that, get pleasure in every bite with their fog line farm rosemary chicken which is paired with their tagliatelle bolognese.

Then as a finishing treat, pleasure yourself with their vanilla bean Panna Cotta as your end meal.

30. Austino’s Patisserie

Austino's Patisserie

Why it’s a must visit?

The Austino’s Patisserie Restaurant is a neighborhood-friendly bakery renowned for its soft baked goods, fresh coffee bean beverages, and chowder.

It’s a local bakery and is celebrated as one of the great restaurants in Monterey, crediting its laid-back ambiance and darling food choices.

The local community frequently visits this place, and due to its unpretentious atmosphere, people love to relish its aromatic surroundings by immersing in baked scents.

Chef’s Choice

It’s better to go for something not too fancy here, like their bread bowl, before trying a plate of their special quiche as a simple feast.

Also, it would be better if you pair any of their dish with their beverage coffee for a refreshing start.

But if you have a sweet tooth, you must give their freshly created pastries a try and sample them with their mouth-melting vanilla ice cream for a sweet finish.

31. Restaurant 1833

Restaurant 1833

Why it’s a must visit?

The Restaurant 1833 is immersed in the fascinating Californian history and was refurbished from an old newspaper press two a full-fledged luxury restaurant with sophisticated marvel.

The interior of this restaurant is spellbinding, with an outdoor setting that is ideal if you are here to hang out with your friends for a chilled hideout.

Besides featuring a beautiful outdoor dining hall, the restaurant also has four fire pits which are situated in the main hallway and gives visitors a pampering experience.

Chef’s Choice

As it’s a Californian bistro, the restaurant features almost every classic dish of California and is prepared with authentic recipes and techniques. 

As Californian food is known for its comfort cuisine, hamburgers, fries, and hot dogs are the best dish that you can give a try here due to their many flavorsome tastes.

Not only that, their beer options here are outstanding choices, too, along with their impressive collection of wines to give you the most exciting pairing experience.

32. Chart House

Chart House

Why it’s a must visit?

The chart house restaurant believes in the idea of serving people not just delicious food choices but also blending it with their charming atmosphere to give one an overall pleasant culinary venture.

Anyone who visits this diner will appreciate the beauty that it exhibits as the skyline view is breathtaking with the entire scenery of Monterey Bay.

A lot of people have given rave reviews about its seafood as it’s freshly caught by the local Fisherman and hence has an organic and healthy taste to it.

Chef’s Choice

As the restaurant shares, it’s in the vicinity of the Monterey bay river, and it makes sense that its seafood has a genuinely spectacular taste with many organic flavors.

But when it comes to deciding between the many culinary delights here, their prime rib and seafood dishes take the crown here.

Other than the simple dishes, you can also go for a much healthier alternative with a balanced aromatic flavoring through their exquisite Caesar salads and toothsome desserts for an overall wholesome feast.

33. Sardine Factory

Sardine Factory

Why it’s a must visit?

The sardine factory is a luxurious restaurant that caters to its special guests from high backgrounds, like celebrities and renowned figures, through its gourmet food choices and expensive rates.

The restaurant is a hit among several celebrated figures who like to feel tampered with its royal hospitality and exquisite food choices, which are made from the recipes of expert award-winning chefs.

Their culinary masterpieces, with their use of only high-quality ingredients, have established this restaurant’s reputation as an extravagant place to give a visit.

Chef’s Choice

One of the fascinating facets of this incredible restaurant is its sustainable mindset in using organic materials to create its dishes, making them healthier and tastier.

Also, all of its dishes are prepared with the freshest ingredients and sustainable food selections, which are also USDA approved and therefore established its ground as a relevant diner.

Despite its many gorgeous food choices, one must try its USDA-approved prime dry-aged beef as it uses the tenderest of meat with seasonal spices, which go incredibly well with its impressive wine pairings.

Famous foods to try in the city

Crab cakes – The crab cakes here have a charming delight to them as they are freshly caught by the fishermen from the local Monterey bay rivers and therefore are free from any packaging or preservatives, which makes them not only healthier but also scrumptious in flavor.

Californian cuisine – It is a spectacular insight knowing how Monterey serves one of the most darling Californian cuisines in the form of comfort food choices that gets vastly employed in pubs and bars that like to provide an impeccable selection of beers with lovely snack options that are fulfilling and tasty.

Grilled Food – Monterey takes special care in curating grilled food dishes, especially with its many seafood options due to its waterfront location and therefore offers people a remarkable feat towards seafood grilled choices which have a beautiful smoky aroma to them and are made with tender meat that dissolves in one’s mouth quickly adding to it overall masterful techniques.

Final Thoughts

Monterey is a culinary getaway for anyone who seeks to uncover the several cuisines that prevail in America through its varied, sophisticated diners. But being in an exotic city itself is a challenging task as the multiple restaurants here are all spectacular and therefore puts one in a tight spot of deciding which one to visit that would fulfill all parameters.

So for that, we created a list of some of the best Monterey restaurants with elaborate details and hope that it has helped you find a decent place to eat. So without further ado, let’s scour these places and have a great culinary exploration through its many beloved diners.

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