Best Restaurants for Foodies in Monterey

13 restaurants available nearby

1. Montrio

4.6

Exceptional(4217)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Monterey

Booked 8 times today

Montrio is a foodie paradise, as described in reviews. Patrons praise its 'exceptional food', 'spectacular menu', and 'creative cocktails'. It's noted for its 'sustainable seafood', 'fine quality meat', and 'Monterey County’s best produce'. Montrio offers a 'fine European inspired-American cuisine' with a focus on local, high-quality ingredients. It's also noted for its 'exquisite presentation' and 'notable wine list'.

A photo of Schooners Monterey restaurant

2. Schooners Monterey

4.6

Exceptional(3030)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Monterey

Booked 45 times today

Schooners Monterey is a foodie haven, offering sustainable seafood and contemporary American cuisine. Reviewers rave about the fresh and organic food, with one stating 'the food is exquisite and you can taste the quality of the ingredients.' The restaurant's location over Monterey Bay and stunning views further enhance the dining experience. The commitment to fresh, sustainable seafood, creative cocktails, and an impressive wine list make Schooners a top choice for foodies.

3. Tarpy's Roadhouse

4.6

Exceptional(3586)

Price: Moderate

• American • Monterey

Booked 20 times today

Relax in this 1917 Roadhouse and enjoy creative, Five Star American Country Cuisine. The wood-burning grill provides wonderful flavors for the freshest seafood and prime steaks. Set on five landscaped acres, the patios and extensive gardens provide a refreshing backdrop for hearty sandwiches, vegetarian entrees and tempting salads. Reservations are recommended.We are limited to outdoor seating. Please wear warm clothes for dinner. Not all tables have heat. All tables of 4 we allow 1 hour 30 minutes. Parties of 6 or more 2 hours. If you need more time please let us know. We require credit cards for parties over 6. All guests must wear a mask while entering the restaurant. You may take it off once seated. If your late for your reservation, please call we allow 15 minute grace period. Tarpy's also offers affordable off-site catering drop offs

4. Treehouse Cafe

4.7

Exceptional(266)

Price: Expensive

• Global, International • Carmel

Booked 19 times today

Treehouse Cafe offers global fare in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

5. Grasing's

4.7

Exceptional(3067)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Carmel

Booked 23 times today

DINING UPDATE: Please call restaurant if desired reservation is not available online.Grasing's is open for indoor dining and limited outdoor dining (weather permitting). Please note if stairs are an issue for any guest. Please continue to visit our website a https://grasings.com for menu updates, holiday offerings and special events. Grasing’s, located in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, lies along the Pacific Coast in Central California in Monterey County. Celebrity chef partners, Kurt Grasing and Narsai David, truly created a gem. From friendly and professional service, an award winning wine list and seasonally inspired cocktails to the fresh and sustainable local ingredients.Please contact the restaurant to request dog friendly patio seating.

6. Passionfish

4.8

Exceptional(7234)

Price: Expensive

• Seafood • Pacific Grove

Booked 40 times today

Passionfish offers a unique California dining experience with serious food and realistically priced wine in a fun and casual atmosphere. The ever-changing menu features the freshest, sustainable seafood, slow-cooked meats, organic greens, and delectable desserts, all complemented by an award-winning wine list priced nearly to retail. Passionfish is proudly owned and operated by Chef Meral Alpay and her son, Berk Guvenc. As pioneers in sustainable dining, Passionfish became the first restaurant in Monterey County to earn official ‘Green’ certification, reflecting their strong commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable seafood education.

7. La Mia Cucina

4.8

Exceptional(1015)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Pacific Grove

Booked 10 times today

Stroll along 17th St., between Lighthouse and Laurel and you will find one of the Peninsula’s favorite spots, La Mia Cucina. This little jewel, with its fresh ambiance and tantalizing menu, is popular with everyone. The colorful European advertising posters that enliven the walls, are “originals, not reproductions.” That phrase is accurate in describing La Mia Cucina itself. From the comfortable linen white decor, accented beautifully by those turn-of-the-century posters, to the hand-crafted entrees and desserts, everything about La Mia Cucina says fresh and original. Owner Michael’s specialty, his ravioli dishes, are a renowned local favorite, and for good reason. They are hand made, with all the care that only a lifetime of creative food combining can bring. In addition to pasta, La Mia Cucina is known for it's fresh fish and meat specials. The desserts are made in-house by his wife Paula and daughter Michaela, and the service is personal and inviting.

A photo of Sur at The Barnyard restaurant

8. Sur at The Barnyard

4.5

Awesome(507)

Price: Expensive

• American • Carmel Valley

Booked 19 times today

Voted "Best Restaurant in Carmel Valley 2023"!Located in the picturesque Barnyard Shopping Village just off of HWY 1 between Rio Rd and Carmel Valley Rd. Sur at the Barnyard is where foodies, beer lovers and families escape the stresses of their day-to-day lives to enjoy a great meal!If you don't see a reservation available give us a call anytime and we will be happy to assist!Need a reservation for 7 or more? Give us a call at 831-250-7188 or email us any requests at reservations@suratthebarnyard.com

A photo of Estéban Restaurant at Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa restaurant

9. Estéban Restaurant at Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa

4.1

Excellent(870)

Price: Expensive

• Spanish • Monterey

Booked 10 times today

Estéban Restaurant: Spanish-inspired California cuisine.This local favorite offers indoor & outdoor patio (pet-friendly) diningUp-to-date hours: Open for BreakfastMon. – Fri. 7:00am–10:00amOpen for DinnerSun. – Thurs., 4:30pm–8:30pmFri. & Sat., 4:30pm–9:00pmTapas Happy Hour daily 4:30pm–6:00pmOpen for BrunchSat. & Sun. 9:00am–1:30pmEstéban Restaurant, the 2024 Diners' Choice award winner, carries on the Munras family tradition of culinary hospitality and excellence. It offers authentic Monterey dining in the historic Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa. Enjoy a unique culinary experience featuring traditional Spanish-inspired California cuisine with a pinch of adventure. Choose from shared plates and classic selections. Gift Certificates availableFollow us on Facebook at facebook.com/EstebanRestaurant and Instagram at instagram.com/estebanrestaurant/

A photo of Fishwife - Pacific Grove restaurant

10. Fishwife - Pacific Grove

4.3

Awesome(872)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • Pacific Grove

Booked 18 times today

Fishwife offers a menu of award-winning American cuisine with a Caribbean accent since 1986. With many daily specials, fresh Seafood as well as homemade pastas and dishes for children, there is something for everyone. Daily specials spotlight fresh catch and seasonal fish. Desserts are homemade as well. The atmosphere is casual with a FULL BAR and friendly service, making it a great place to visit with groups and family. Just a short walk from Asilomar Beach and Conference Center. Some of the most popular dishes are Clam chowder, Calamari, Alfredo Combo, Green Lip Mussels, Barramundi and famous homemade Key lime pie. You can also enjoy surf and turf or gluten-free options like the vegetarian bowl.

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Discover best foodies restaurants in Monterey

Discover the vibrant dining scene in Monterey/Carmel, where foodies can indulge in a diverse array of culinary delights. Nestled along the California Central Coast, this area is renowned for its fresh, sustainable seafood and innovative American cuisine, making it a must-visit for any gastronome. The restaurants here offer a delightful mix of local and international flavors, often emphasizing organic and locally sourced ingredients that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage. Whether you're craving comforting American classics, exquisite Mediterranean dishes, or expertly prepared seafood, Monterey/Carmel caters to all palates. Each dining establishment is committed to high-quality service, ensuring a memorable experience with every meal. The scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and the relaxed, welcoming atmospheres further enhance the dining experience, making every meal here truly exceptional. For food enthusiasts looking to explore unique and flavorful dishes, Monterey/Carmel is an ideal destination.

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Best Restaurants for Foodies in Monterey

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13 restaurants available nearby

1. Montrio

2. Schooners Monterey

3. Tarpy's Roadhouse

4. Treehouse Cafe

5. Grasing's

6. Passionfish

7. La Mia Cucina

8. Sur at The Barnyard

9. Estéban Restaurant at Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa

10. Fishwife - Pacific Grove

Discover best foodies restaurants in Monterey

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