Top Monterey Restaurants Locals Actually Recommend

When planning a trip to Monterey, most visitors focus on scenic views and tourist attractions. But for those looking to enjoy truly memorable meals, knowing where to dine can make all the difference. This guide highlights Monterey’s top restaurants known for quality, atmosphere, and dishes that reflect the region’s coastal and cultural richness.

Where to Find the Best Seafood in Monterey

Seafood is Monterey’s signature, and you’ll find no shortage of options near the bay. What sets these restaurants apart is the consistent quality, thoughtful preparation, and the experience they provide alongside the food.

Sandbar & Grill: Located on Wharf #2, this waterfront restaurant is known for its cioppino, a hearty tomato-based seafood stew with roots in Italian fishing traditions. The views and well-balanced flavors make it a standout.

Monterey Fish House: A family-owned spot with deep Sicilian roots. Set in a modest location off Del Monte Avenue, this place is known for its calamari steak with eggplant, crab ravioli, and seafood specialties served in generous portions.

Schooners Coastal Kitchen & Bar: Part of the Monterey Plaza Hotel, Schooners offers panoramic ocean views and a menu featuring seafood risotto, seasonal shellfish, and sustainably sourced ingredients.

One long-standing favorite is Old Fisherman’s Grotto, located on Old Fisherman’s Wharf. Famous for its clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, this iconic restaurant also serves dishes like lobster tail, calamari, and locally sourced crab.

Not Just Seafood: Modern Menus and Local Hospitality

Monterey’s culinary scene also includes places that offer refined menus and exceptional hospitality, whether you’re looking for a quiet dinner, cocktails, or shared plates in a relaxed setting.

Bistro Abrego, located within Hotel Abrego, offers a warm, elegant setting with a menu that blends contemporary flavors and timeless classics. From freshly caught seafood to perfectly cooked steaks, each dish is plated with care and full of depth. With a curated wine list and a staff ready to help guide pairings, it’s a perfect place to unwind after exploring the area.

Montrio Bistro, housed in a restored firehouse in downtown Monterey, is known for its seasonal farm-to-table offerings and handcrafted cocktails. A favorite dish is the pan-roasted chicken served with truffle mashed potatoes, bringing comfort and creativity together on one plate.

Alvarado Street Brewery, also in downtown Monterey, brings together craft beer and elevated pub food in a vibrant, welcoming space. Their pork belly sliders and truffle fries are popular choices, especially when paired with the award-winning Mai Tai IPA.

What to Know Before You Go

To make the most of your meals in Monterey, keep these tips in mind:

Make reservations at Sandbar & Grill and Monterey Fish House, especially on weekends

Try cioppino if it’s your first visit to the Central Coast

Visit the Alvarado Street Farmers Market on Tuesday afternoons for fresh produce and artisanal street food

Enjoy dinner with a view at Schooners for a sunset dining experience

Ask for wine pairings at Bistro Abrego to complement your meal

Whether you’re in the mood for coastal seafood, elevated comfort food, or a quiet place to enjoy a glass of wine, Monterey offers a variety of memorable dining experiences. Choosing where to eat can enhance your time in town, turning a simple meal into something special.