The Monterey Bay Area Restaurants
We’ve compiled the best of the best in The Monterey Bay Area - browse our top choices for Restaurants during your stay.
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48 Recommendations
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1. Aubergine
$$$$ | |To eat and sleep at luxe L'Auberge Carmel is an experience in itself, but even those staying elsewhere can splurge at the inn's intimate restaurant,...
To eat and sleep at luxe L'Auberge Carmel is an experience in itself, but even those staying elsewhere can splurge at the inn's intimate restaurant, which was awarded a Michelin star in 2019. Chef Justin Cogley's nine-course prix-fixe tasting menu (your only option at dinner, $205 per person) is a gastronomical experience unrivaled in the region.
Monte Verde at 7th Ave., Carmel, California, 93921, USA831-624–8578Known For
- Exceptional chef's choice tasting menu
- Expert wine pairings
- Intimate nine-table dining room
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No lunch, Credit cards accepted, Reservations essential -
2. Basil
$$ | |Eco-friendly Basil was Monterey County's first restaurant to achieve a green-dining certification, recognition of its commitment to using organic, sustainably cultivated ingredients in creative dishes...
Eco-friendly Basil was Monterey County's first restaurant to achieve a green-dining certification, recognition of its commitment to using organic, sustainably cultivated ingredients in creative dishes such as black squid linguine with sea urchin sauce, charred octopus, and smoked venison and other house-made charcuterie.
San Carlos St., Carmel, California, 93921, USA831-626–8226Known For
- Organic ingredients
- Creative cocktails
- Year-round patio dining
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Reservations essential -
3. Fandango
$$$ | |The menu here is mostly Mediterranean and southern French, with such dishes as osso buco and paella. The decor follows suit: stone walls and country...
The menu here is mostly Mediterranean and southern French, with such dishes as osso buco and paella. The decor follows suit: stone walls and country furniture lend the restaurant the earthy feel of a European farmhouse.
223 17th St., Pacific Grove, California, 93950, USA831-372–3456Known For
- Wood-fire-grilled rack of lamb, seafood, and beef
- Convivial residential vibe
- Traditional European flavors
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted -
4. Laili Restaurant
$$ | |Exotic Mediterranean flavors with an Afghan twist take center stage at this artsy, stylish space with soaring ceilings. In the evening, locals come to relax...
Exotic Mediterranean flavors with an Afghan twist take center stage at this artsy, stylish space with soaring ceilings. In the evening, locals come to relax over wine and soft jazz at the blue-concrete bar, on the heated patio with twinkly lights, or at a communal table near the open kitchen.
101–B Cooper St., Santa Cruz, California, 95060, USA831-423–4545Known For
- House-made pastas and numerous vegetarian and vegan options
- Fresh naan, chutneys, and dips with every meal
- Traditional dishes like pomegranate eggplant and maushawa soup
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5. Passionfish
$$$ | |South American artwork and artifacts decorate Passionfish, and Latin and Asian flavors infuse the dishes. The chef shops at local farmers' markets several times a...
South American artwork and artifacts decorate Passionfish, and Latin and Asian flavors infuse the dishes. The chef shops at local farmers' markets several times a week to find the best produce, fish, and meat available, then pairs it with creative sauces like a caper, raisin, and walnut relish.
701 Lighthouse Ave., Pacific Grove, California, 93950, USA831-655–3311Known For
- Sustainably sourced seafood and organic ingredients
- Reasonably priced wine list that supports small producers
- Slow-cooked meats
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No lunch, Credit cards accepted -
Recommended Fodor’s Video
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6. The Pocket
$$ | |In surf lingo, "the pocket" is a perfect riding spot within a barrel-shape wave, and this Italian--Californian restaurant is likewise a perfect (casual and unfussy)...
In surf lingo, "the pocket" is a perfect riding spot within a barrel-shape wave, and this Italian--Californian restaurant is likewise a perfect (casual and unfussy) gathering spot for those who seek first-rate food, wine, and cocktails. The co-owners—a chef and sommelier with years of experience running restaurants in Pebble Beach and around the world—craft seasonal menus that focus on seafood, fresh pastas, curries, steaks, and braised meats.
Lincoln St., between 5th and 6th Ave., Carmel, California, 93921, USA831-626–8000Known For
- Sleek marble, wood, and slate dining room and bar, spacious garden seating
- Full bar, extensive list of more than 400 wines
- Lively atmosphere, especially during the daily happy hour
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7. Anton and Michel
$$$ | |Carefully prepared California cuisine is the draw at this airy restaurant. The rack of lamb is carved at the table, the grilled halloumi cheese and...
Carefully prepared California cuisine is the draw at this airy restaurant. The rack of lamb is carved at the table, the grilled halloumi cheese and tomatoes are meticulously stacked and served with basil and Kalamata olive tapenade, and the desserts are set aflame before your eyes. For lighter fare with a worldwide flair, head to the bar, where small plates such as Dungeness crab ravioli and brochette of filet mignon with chimichurri sauce are served.
Mission St. and 7th Ave., Carmel, California, 93921, USA831-624–2406Known For
- Romantic courtyard with fountain
- Elegant interior with fireplace lounge
- Flambé desserts
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted, Reservations essential -
8. Beach House
$$$ | |Patrons of this bluff-top perch sip classic cocktails, sample California fare, and watch the otters frolic on Lovers Point Beach below. The sunset discounts between...
Patrons of this bluff-top perch sip classic cocktails, sample California fare, and watch the otters frolic on Lovers Point Beach below. The sunset discounts between 4 and 5:30 (reservations recommended) are a great value. For the best views of the beach and bay, sit on the heated outdoor patio.
620 Ocean View Blvd., Pacific Grove, California, 93950, USA831-375–2345Known For
- Sweeping bluff-top views
- Heated patio
- Seafood and organic pastas
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No lunch -
9. Bittersweet Bistro
$$$ | |A large old tavern with cathedral ceilings houses this popular bistro, where the Mediterranean--California menu changes seasonally, but regular highlights include paella, seafood puttanesca, and...
A large old tavern with cathedral ceilings houses this popular bistro, where the Mediterranean--California menu changes seasonally, but regular highlights include paella, seafood puttanesca, and pepper-crusted rib-eye steak with Cabernet demi-glace.
787 Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos, California, 95003, USA831-662–9799Known For
- Value-laden happy hour
- Seafood specials
- House-made desserts
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues., Credit cards accepted -
10. Café Rustica
$$ | |European country cooking is the focus at this lively roadhouse, where specialties include roasted meats, seafood, pastas, and thin-crust pizzas from the wood-fired oven. It...
European country cooking is the focus at this lively roadhouse, where specialties include roasted meats, seafood, pastas, and thin-crust pizzas from the wood-fired oven. It can get noisy inside; for a quieter meal, request a table outside.
10 Delfino Pl., Carmel Valley, California, 93924, USA831-659–4444Known For
- Tuscan-flavored dishes from Alsace
- Open kitchen with wood-fired oven
- Outdoor patio seating
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. No lunch Tues. and Wed., Credit cards accepted, Reservations essential -
11. Carpo's
$ | |Locals love this casual counter where seafood predominates, but you can also order burgers, salads, and steaks. Baskets of battered snapper are among the favorites,...
Locals love this casual counter where seafood predominates, but you can also order burgers, salads, and steaks. Baskets of battered snapper are among the favorites, along with calamari, prawns, seafood kebabs, fish-and-chips, and homemade olallieberry pie. Many items cost less than $12. Come early for lunch or dinner to beat the crowds.
2400 Porter St., Soquel, California, 95073, USA831-476–6260Known For
- Large portions of healthy comfort food
- Lots of options under $12
- Soup and salad bar
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted -
12. Casanova
$$$ | |This restaurant inspires European-style celebration and romance in an intimate French-country setting. Feast on authentic dishes from southern France and northern Italy—think beef tartare and...
This restaurant inspires European-style celebration and romance in an intimate French-country setting. Feast on authentic dishes from southern France and northern Italy—think beef tartare and escargot. Private dining and a special tasting menu are offered at Van Gogh's Table, a relic from France's Auberge Ravoux, the artist's final residence.
5th Ave., between San Carlos and Mission Sts., Carmel, California, 93921, USA831-625–0501Known For
- House-made pastas and gnocchi
- Private dining at antique Van Gogh's table
- Romantic candlelight dining room and outdoor patio
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted, Reservations essential -
13. Corkscrew Café
$$ | |Farm-fresh food is the specialty of this casual, Old Monterey–style bistro. Herbs and seasonal produce come from the Corkscrew's own organic gardens, the catch of...
Farm-fresh food is the specialty of this casual, Old Monterey–style bistro. Herbs and seasonal produce come from the Corkscrew's own organic gardens, the catch of the day comes from local waters, and the meats are hormone-free. Don't miss the collection of corkscrews from the 17th century to the present.
55 W. Carmel Valley Rd., Carmel Valley, California, 93924, USA831-659–8888Known For
- Wood-fired pizzas
- Fantastic regional wine list
- Garden patio
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Jan. -
14. Crow's Nest
$$$ | |Vintage surfboards and local surf photography line the walls and nearly every table overlooks sand and surf at this restaurant on the Santa Cruz Harbor....
Vintage surfboards and local surf photography line the walls and nearly every table overlooks sand and surf at this restaurant on the Santa Cruz Harbor. For sweeping ocean views and fish tacos, burgers, and other casual fare, head upstairs to the Breakwater Bar & Grill.
2218 E. Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz, California, 95062, USA831-476–4560Known For
- House-smoked salmon and calamari apps
- Crab-cake eggs Benedict and olallieberry pancakes
- On-site market with pizzas, sandwiches, soups, and salads
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted -
15. Estéban Restaurant
$$$ | |In a festive fireplace dining room at Casa Munras hotel, Estéban serves modern and classic versions of Spanish cuisine: empanadas, Moorish chickpea stew, and three...
In a festive fireplace dining room at Casa Munras hotel, Estéban serves modern and classic versions of Spanish cuisine: empanadas, Moorish chickpea stew, and three types of paella. Midweek specials abound: on Tuesday nights, feast on a four-course prix-fixe paella dinner ($38 per person), bottles of wine are half off on Monday, and Wednesday wine flights are just $16 for three tastes.
700 Munras Ave., Monterey, California, 93940, USA831-375–0176Known For
- Daily tapas happy hour from 4:30 to 6
- Patio with firepit
- Special menus for kids and pups
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No lunch -
16. Fishwife
$$ | |Fresh fish with a Latin accent makes this a favorite of locals for lunch or a casual dinner. Standards are the sea garden salads---topped with...
Fresh fish with a Latin accent makes this a favorite of locals for lunch or a casual dinner. Standards are the sea garden salads---topped with your choice of fish---and the fried seafood plates.
1996½ Sunset Dr., Pacific Grove, California, 93950, USA831-375–7107Known For
- Fisherman's bowls with fresh local seafood
- House-made desserts
- Crab cakes and New Zealand mussels
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted -
17. Flying Fish Grill
$$$ | |Simple in appearance yet bold with its flavors, this Japanese–California seafood restaurant is one of Carmel's most inventive eateries. The warm, wood-lined dining room is...
Simple in appearance yet bold with its flavors, this Japanese–California seafood restaurant is one of Carmel's most inventive eateries. The warm, wood-lined dining room is broken up into very private booths.
Mission St. between Ocean and 7th Aves., Carmel, California, 93921, USA831-625–1962Known For
- Almond-crusted sea bass served with Chinese cabbage and rock shrimp stir-fry
- Clay pot dinners for two cooked at the table
- Authentic Asian decor
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No lunch, Credit cards accepted -
18. Gabriella Café
$$ | |Local artwork features prominently at this petite, romantic café in a tile-roof cottage. Featuring organic produce from area farms, the seasonal Italian menu might include...
Local artwork features prominently at this petite, romantic café in a tile-roof cottage. Featuring organic produce from area farms, the seasonal Italian menu might include wild-mushroom risotto; bouillabaisse; marinated chicken with apricots, currants, and olives; and roasted beet salad with wild arugula, goat cheese, and pistachios.
910 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, California, 95060, USA831-457–1677Known For
- Nearly all produce comes from local organic farmers
- Romantic interior with Moorish arches
- Weekend brunch
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. No dinner Sun., Credit cards accepted -
19. Gayle's Bakery & Rosticceria
$$ | |Whether you're in the mood for an orange-olallieberry muffin, a wild rice and chicken salad, or tri-tip on garlic toast, this bakery-deli's varied menu is...
Whether you're in the mood for an orange-olallieberry muffin, a wild rice and chicken salad, or tri-tip on garlic toast, this bakery-deli's varied menu is likely to satisfy. Munch on your lemon meringue tartlet or chocolate brownie on the shady patio, or dig into the daily blue-plate dinner—teriyaki grilled skirt steak with edamame--shiitake sticky rice, perhaps, or roast turkey breast with Chardonnay gravy—amid the whirl of activity inside.
504 Bay Ave., Capitola, California, 95010, USA831-462–1200Known For
- Prepared meals to go
- On-site bakery and rosticceria
- Deli and espresso bar
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted -
20. Grasing's Coastal Cuisine
$$$$ | |Chef Kurt Grasing draws from fresh Carmel Coast and Central Valley ingredients to whip up contemporary adaptations of European-provincial and American dishes. Longtime menu favorites...
Chef Kurt Grasing draws from fresh Carmel Coast and Central Valley ingredients to whip up contemporary adaptations of European-provincial and American dishes. Longtime menu favorites include duck with fresh cherries in a red wine sauce, a savory sausage and seafood paella, and grilled steaks and chops.
6th Ave. and Mission St., Carmel, California, 93921, USA831-624–6562Known For
- Artichoke-heart lasagna
- Grilled steaks
- Bar, patio lounge, and rooftop deck
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted, Reservations essential
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