The Monterey Bay Area Restaurants

The Monterey Bay area is a culinary paradise. The surrounding waters are full of fish, wild game roams the foothills, and the inland valleys are some of the most fertile in the country—local chefs draw on this bounty for their fresh, truly Californian cuisine. Except at beachside stands and inexpensive eateries, where anything goes, casual but neat dress is the norm.

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  • 1. Aubergine

    $$$$

    To eat and sleep at luxe L'Auberge Carmel is an experience in itself, but even those staying elsewhere can splurge at the inn's intimate restaurant, which was awarded a Michelin star in 2022. Chef Justin Cogley's eight-course prix-fixe tasting menu (your only option at dinner, $265 per person) is a gastronomical experience unrivaled in the region.

    Monte Verde at 7th Ave., Carmel, California, 93921, USA
    831-624–8578

    Known For

    • Exceptional chef's choice tasting menu
    • Expert wine pairings (extra fee)
    • Intimate nine-table dining room

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues. No lunch, Reservations essential
  • 2. Fandango

    $$$

    The menu here is mostly Mediterranean and southern French, with such dishes as osso buco and paella. The decor follows suit—stone walls and country furniture lend the restaurant the earthy feel of a European farmhouse.

    223 17th St., Pacific Grove, California, 93950, USA
    831-372–3456

    Known For

    • Wood-fire-grilled rack of lamb, seafood, and beef
    • Convivial residential vibe
    • Traditional European flavors

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No lunch Mon.–Sat.
  • 3. L'Escargot

    $$$

    Chef-owner Kericos Loutas personally sees to each plate of food served at this romantic, unpretentious French restaurant. Order the pan-roasted duck breast or the pork medallions with wild mushrooms or white wine sauce; or, if you can't decide, choose the three-course prix-fixe dinner.

    Mission and 4th Ave., Carmel, California, 93921, USA
    831-620–1942

    Known For

    • Authentic French-country dishes
    • Prix-fixe dinner option
    • Locally sourced ingredients

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues., Reservations essential
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