Courtesy of Pgiam/Getty Images
What to Eat in Monterey
Because of Monterey's location along the Pacific Ocean, fresh seafood is, of course, a staple on menus throughout the area. Old Fisherman's Wharf is often the first choice of those looking to sample Monterey's famous clam chowder. Yet despite the wharf's unbeatable views and abundant free samples, travelers have found the establishments to be overpriced and mediocre. To break from the crowds and sample better seafood, walk one pier over to LouLou's Griddle in the Middle for cheaper chowder and a delightfully kitschy atmosphere.
Serious seafood lovers should look no further than Phil's Fish Market in Moss Landing. Located just under 20 miles north of Monterey, Phil's is considered to be one of the best seafood spots in Monterey County, serving seafood in all shapes and sizes, hot and cold. It's so popular that Bobby Flay paid a visit for a Food Network throwdown (chef Phil DiGirolamo beat the celebrity chef and restaurateur with his signature Cioppino stew).
If you're hungry for something other than the catch of the day, travel inland to the hillside neighborhood of Seaside for some of the region's tastiest Mexican restaurants. Carne asada connoisseurs in particular enjoy Baldemiro's Taco Shop for its robust carne asada fries.
Head south to Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pebble Beach and you'll quickly see the finer things in life can be just as tasty. Carmel-by-the-Sea prides itself on having no chain restaurants, so Starbucks-lovers will have to trade in their fraps for a mom-and-pop-brewed cup of joe. Those looking for a fine dining experience should book a table at the award-winning Aubergine restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel. The restaurant features an eight-course chef's menu that changes daily, as well as a 2,500-wine cellar featuring wines from the region as well as France.
If you have an extra day to spare, take a drive out to Carmel Valley and explore the area's many wineries, situated among the picturesque Santa Lucia Highlands. Talbott Vineyards in particular makes a mean Pinot Noir.
Find the Best Restaurants in Monterey
- #1
Compagno's Market & Deli#1 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey
$ | American, Deli2000 Prescott Ave, Monterey, CA 93940-2031Read More » - #2
Bistro Moulin#2 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #3
Montrio Bistro#3 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #4
Paris Bakery Cafe#4 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #5
Wave Street Cafe#5 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #6
Hula's Island Grill#6 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #7
Crystal Fish#7 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #8
Loulou's Griddle In The Middle#8 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #9
Old Monterey Cafe#9 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #10
Rosine's Restaurant#10 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #11
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop#11 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #12
Sandbar & Grill#12 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #13
Esteban Restaurant#13 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #14
Whaling Station Steakhouse#14 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #15
Old Fisherman's Grotto#15 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #16
Crown & Anchor#16 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey
$ - $$ | Bar, British, Pub150 W Franklin St, Monterey, CA 93940-2708Read More » - #17
The Club Room#17 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #18
Monterey's Fish House#18 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #19
Schooners Coastal Kitchen & Bar#19 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey - #20
Chart House#20 of 261 Places to Eat in Monterey
Explore More of Monterey
If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.