10 Best Bars in The Monterey Bay Area, California

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We've compiled the best of the best in The Monterey Bay Area - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill

Housed in an historic Beaux Arts building that dates from 1916, this craft brewery lures locals and visitors alike with a full bar and 20 craft beers on tap, decent gastropub menu, beer garden, and shaded sidewalk patio. The company also has a brewery, bistro, and wine bar in Carmel Plaza in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Barmel

Al Capone and other Prohibition-era legends once sidled up to this hip nightspot's carved wooden bar. Rock to DJ music and sit indoors, or head out to the pet-friendly patio. Some menu items pay homage to California's early days.

San Carlos St., Carmel, CA, 93921, USA
831-626–3400
Nightlife Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon.

Catalyst

This huge, grimy, and fun club books rock, indie rock, punk, death-metal, reggae, and other acts.

Recommended Fodor's Video

Cibo

An Italian restaurant and event venue with a big bar area, Cibo brings live jazz and other music to downtown five nights a week.

Crown & Anchor

An authentic British pub, downtown Crown & Anchor has 20 beers on tap, classic cocktails, and a full menu, including 18 daily specials available in the restaurant and heated patio until midnight.

LindaRose Bar & Grill

Head up to the rooftop bar at Hotel 1110 for sweeping bay views, craft cocktails, local wine and beer, and an array of Mediterranean-centric dishes—from kebabs and lamb fries to mezze. Check the event schedule for live music and other special happenings.

Moe's Alley

Blues, salsa, reggae, funk: delightfully casual Moe's presents it all (and more).

1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz, CA, 95065, USA
831-479–1854
Nightlife Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon.

Mulligan Public House

A sports bar with seven TV screens, 12 beers on tap, and extensive menu packed with hearty American pub food, Mulligan usually stays open until midnight.

Peter B's Brewpub

House-made beers, 18 HDTVs, a decent pub menu, and a pet-friendly patio ensure lively crowds at this craft brewery in back of the Portola Hotel & Spa.

Turn 12 Bar & Grill

The motorcycles and vintage photographs at this downtown watering hole pay homage to nearby 11-turn Laguna Seca Raceway. The large-screen TVs, heated outdoor patio, happy-hour specials, and live entertainment keep the place jumpin' into the wee hours.

Not finding what you're looking for?

We've got a few suggestions for nearby spots.
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