Top 10 Restaurants in Monterey USA

The dining scene of Monterey is as captivating as its coastal views, offering everything from gourmet delights to fresh seafood. Here are the top 10 restaurants you must try for a true taste of Monterey!

Monterey’s dining scene features a blend of upscale restaurants and relaxed bistros, each showcasing flavors drawn from California’s coastal bounty. The county’s culinary offerings range from innovative American dishes to those influenced by California’s diverse cultural tapestry. Known for fresh, locally sourced seafood and flavors inspired by Mexico, Italy, and France, Monterey's restaurants deliver a rich mix of tastes. In this article we’ve nitpicked the 10 best Monterey restaurants, so dive right in and pick your favorite!    

Cultura Comida y Bebida brings the authentic tastes of Oaxaca, Mexico, to life, drawing inspiration from the owners' travels. Situated in a charming historic courtyard in the picturesque beach town of Carmel-by-the-Sea on California’s Central Coast is this fine dining in Monterey. The place offers a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere ideal for both intimate meals and gatherings with friends or family. You can opt for cozy indoor seating or enjoy the fresh air outdoors whilst still savoring the dishes. The menu features shareable dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and steak, paired with distinctive cocktails and classic mezcal for a true Oaxacan experience.  

Dolores Street, between 5th ave. & 6th ave Su Vecino Courtyard, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, United States

La Bicyclette is a charming European-inspired bistro nestled in the scenic town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Known for its commitment to traditional techniques and high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, this cozy spot offers a menu that evolves weekly to reflect the changing seasons. With a compact kitchen outfitted with an exquisite woody oven and a stove, the chefs create a mix of French and Italian favorites with a modern twist. Guests can enjoy dishes like oysters mornay, boeuf bourguignon, and octopus salad, as well as a selection of artisanal wood-fired pizzas.

Dolores St &, 7th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, United States

Chez Noir offers a delightful seafood experience inspired by the flavors of the lovely Californian coast. Nestled in one of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s picturesque streets, this restaurant is run by a lovely couple who put a unique spin on the traditional dining scene, blending top-class hospitality, quality ingredients, and a touch of little luxury. You can dine in the cozy interior, at the bar, or outdoors in the charming courtyard. The menu features expertly made dishes such as fresh seafood, salads, and steaks, with an option to elevate any starter with a touch of caviar for a more indulgent experience.

5th Ave between Dolores and, San Carlos St, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, United States

Montrio provides an elevated dining experience centered on seasonal and sustainably sourced ingredients. Situated in the heart of downtown Monterey, this restaurant combines European and American culinary influences and proudly ranks among Monterey's top five eco-friendly dining spots. Its menu features selections like steak, the day’s fresh seafood, and risotto, with plenty of vegetarian choices as well. An extensive list of craft cocktails, wines, and beers complements the dishes, offering the perfect pairing for any meal, making it among the best restaurants in Monterey.

414 Calle Principal, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

Passionfish is a celebrated restaurant committed to the fundamentals of exceptional food, wine, and warm company. Located in the picturesque coastal town of Pacific Grove, with views of California’s scenic shoreline, Passionfish emphasizes dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, supporting local farms, various fisheries, and the farmer's markets. Seafood lovers will find a variety of fresh selections on the menu, including scallops, shrimp, mussels, and fish options like trout, halibut, and tuna. The wine list features exceptional choices, offering the perfect pairing for each dish.

701 Lighthouse Ave, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, United States

Bistro Moulin is an inviting European-style bistro on Monterey’s Cannery Row, offering comforting French-inspired cuisine paired with an excellent wine selection. The menu celebrates traditional French flavors with dishes like steamed mussels, assorted cheeses, and escargot, transporting diners to the heart of Europe. The cozy, intimate ambiance elevates the experience, transporting you far from California. Thoughtfully crafted vegetarian dishes are also on the menu, ensuring there’s something delightful for everyone to enjoy.

867 Wave St, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

Roam is a vibrant restaurant in Carmel-by-the-Sea, bringing a fusion of flavors inspired by Los Angeles’s rich cultural diversity. This chic eatery serves inventive, flavored dishes that reflect a unique blend of culinary traditions. Founded by a unique team of Asian American and Latin-American partners, Roam’s menu is inspired by the cherished recipes from their childhoods. These familiar comfort foods are reimagined with creative twists and modern ingredients, resulting in fresh takes on classic favorites. At Roam, you’ll enjoy a comforting yet adventurous dining experience, where each dish tells a story of heritage and innovation. 

Mission Street &, 7th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, United States

Head to Foray, the dining destination in Carmel-by-the-Sea, offering modern American cuisine with a strong focus on Pacific West Coast ingredients. This restaurant highlights the best local and seasonal products, run by a lovely husband-wife duo. A unique touch comes from their truffle-hunting dog, who helps gather truffles featured in their dishes. You can enjoy craft cocktails, a carefully curated wine selection, and tenderloin, roasted cod, and cauliflower steak.    

NEC San Carlos Street &, 5th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, United States

Maligne is a stylish, industrial-chic restaurant in Seaside on the Monterey Peninsula, blending contemporary European and classic American flavors. Known for its inventive use of local, farm-fresh, and ocean-sourced ingredients, Maligne uses techniques like fermentation and dehydration to bring unique tastes in each dish. With a seafood-focused menu, you can savor wood-fired favorites such as yellowfin tuna, grilled prawns, and lobster rolls, each crafted using time-honored methods.

600 Broadway Ave, Seaside, CA 93955, United States

Cella Restaurant & Bar brings a relaxed dining experience to Monterey’s vibrant downtown, surrounded by trendy bars in revamped industrial spaces and boutique stores. The menu is refreshingly concise, offering thoughtfully crafted dishes like risotto, short rib, and chicken. Housed in a charming building with bright blue doors and window frames, Cella exudes warmth and coziness. Inside, the space is decorated with local artwork, polished wood furnishings, and comfortable banquette seating, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for a memorable dining experience.  

525 Polk St, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

Wrapping up, you can enjoy everything from trendy, industrial-chic settings to intimate, charming dining spots. Whether it’s a romantic evening, a gathering with friends, or a memorable celebration, Monterey has options to suit every occasion. So, where’s your next stop to dine in Monterey?