Menton Frane "what's your opinion"
 

We are driving from Milan to Lake Como and down through Piedmont to the Italian Riviera We are dropping off our car in San Remo and taking train to Nice. My question is would we want to back track to see Menton or is San Remo basically the same. Though we will be going to Monaco. Please let me know your opinion. Thank you

We love Menton - hate Monaco! Menton is lovely, had a nice promenade along the sea that you can walk along for miles. Monaco is a tribute to concrete.

The only thing San Remo and Menton have in common is that they are both on the Med. San Remo is an old, dusty city with a patina of former glory and beauty. Menton, on the other hand, is completely restored for tourists. It is lovely, I agree, a little too perfect maybe, but worth a stroll.

As an alternative, you might want to try Bordighera on the Italian side. I do like San Remo, it is real rather than "dressed up".

Another nice small Italian village to try is Dolceacqua.

Scottstig, take a look at this website when you have some time.
I think it will give you a feel for Menton: http://menton-daily-photo.blogspot.com/

Loved Menton.
San Remo is different as OP said, but we liked seeing too.