25 Essential Monterey Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Monterey.
Wave Street Cafe
California
New American breakfast & lunch fare in a charming, European-style bistro with an outdoor patio.
Crystal Fish
California
Storefront sushi spot offers Japanese favorites, in addition to wine, beer, sake & lunch specials.
Monterey Cookhouse
California
Festive American grill serving everything from wood-fired pizza to ribs plus cocktails, wine & beer.
Hula's Island Grill
Monterey, California
Tropical, tiki-inspired outpost offering a range of Hawaiian eats with an American spin & drinks.
Schooners Monterey
Monterey, California
Elegant venue where modern American fare featuring carefully sourced seafood is served with a view.
Monterey's Fish House
Monterey, California
Rustic corner establishment features home-style seafood entrees & desserts in a warm dining room.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Monterey, California
Family-friendly restaurant offering shrimp & classic southern fare in a casual setting.
The Crown & Anchor
Monterey, California
Nautically themed British watering hole with classic pub grub, international beers & outdoor patio.
Baja Cantina & Grill
Monterey, California
Vintage car memorabilia covers the walls at this Mexican eatery with a heated patio & funky vibe.
Lalla Grill Del Monte
Monterey, California
With a contemporary design & fireside patio, this eatery features international fare & cocktails.
Sea Harvest Restaurant & Fish Market
Monterey, California
A market for local catches & a casual, sit-down cafe for fish sandwiches, shrimp, chowders & more.
Whaling Station Steakhouse
Monterey, California
Diners select their own prime cuts of beef at this old-school steakhouse with on-site dry-age room.
Osteria Al Mare
Monterey, California
Informal Italian eatery with a patio & ocean views dishing up seafood & pasta, plus craft cocktails.
First Awakenings
Monterey, California
Hearty breakfast & other classic fare served in a relaxed venue with outdoor seating.
Abalonetti Bar and Grill
Monterey, California
Cozy Fisherman's Wharf restaurant known for calamari, clam chowder & fresh seafood since 1951.
Benihana Monterey
Monterey, California
Hibachi chain serving Japanese dishes grilled tableside by theatrical chefs.
El Cantaro
Monterey, California
Cheery, health-conscious eatery featuring vegan Mexican standards, including some with faux meat.
Chart House
Monterey, California
High-end chain eatery serving seafood & steakhouse fare in a classy setting with views.
American Burger
Monterey, California
Laid-back burger joint offering milkshakes, classic sides & frequent live music.
Denny's Restaurant
Monterey, California
Casual diner chain dishing up classic American comfort fare, including all-day breakfast favorites.
Paprika Cafe
Monterey, California
Falafel, hummus, kebabs & other Mediterranean staples dispensed in a cozy & colorful setup.
Nacho Bizness
Monterey, California
Eco-friendly Mexican establishment dishing up nachos & burritos in an unpretentious dining room.
3 Mundos Sandwich Shop
Monterey, California
No-frills neighborhood cafe is a draw for piled-high sandwiches & burgers, plus veggie options.
California Pizza Kitchen at Monterey
Monterey, California
Chain eatery serving up inventive pizzas, plus pastas & salads in a modern setting.
Crab House
Monterey, California
Bilevel seafood restaurant offering steaks, cocktails, outdoor tables & sweeping Monterey Bay views.