Introduction
Monterey is known for its beautiful coastline, charming shops, and historic landmarks. But when it comes to food, it can be a challenge to know where to start. With so many restaurants and cafes to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best dishes and dining spots to explore in Monterey. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a wine enthusiast, there’s something here for everyone.
5 Must-Try Foods in Monterey: A Culinary Adventure by the Bay
If you’re looking for a taste of Monterey’s best cuisine, start with these five dishes and dining spots:
Cannery Row’s Best Seafood Restaurant
Located in the heart of Cannery Row, this restaurant is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Try their famous clam chowder bread bowl or their grilled catch of the day. Don’t forget to sip on a local beer while enjoying the ocean view.
The Perfectly Grilled Steak
If you’re in the mood for a hearty meal, head to this restaurant for a perfectly grilled steak. Made to your liking, the steak is served with a variety of sides and sauces to make your taste buds sing.
A Gourmet Cheese Board
Indulge in a selection of artisanal cheeses, meats, and crackers at this cozy wine bar. Pair your board with a glass of your favorite wine and enjoy a relaxing night in.
“Krazy Crab” Seafood Boils
For a fun and messy experience, head to this seafood spot for their famous seafood boil. Served on a big platter, you’ll get to indulge in a variety of fresh seafood, corn, potatoes, and sausage. Don’t forget to wear the provided bib and gloves!
World-famous “Abalone Tacos”
For a unique and flavorful experience, try the abalone tacos at this popular restaurant. Made with fresh abalone sourced from local waters, they are a staple in Monterey’s seafood scene.
Monterey Cuisine 101: The Top Dishes You Can’t Miss
Here are five more dishes you can’t miss when exploring Monterey’s culinary scene:
A Generous Helping of Cioppino
A classic seafood stew made with fresh fish, crab, shrimp, and mussels in a tangy tomato broth. This dish originated in San Francisco but has found a special place in Monterey’s culinary scene.
Creamy and Comforting Artichoke Soup
Served in a bread bowl, this soup is the epitome of comfort food. Made with fresh artichokes, cream, and a touch of spice, it’s the perfect lunch or dinner option.
Authentic Tacos and Tamales
Get a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine at this family-owned restaurant. Choose from a variety of tacos and tamales filled with flavorful meats, fresh vegetables, and zesty sauces.
A Salty and Sweet Peanut Butter Pie
Indulge in a slice of peanut butter pie at this dessert spot. Creamy and salty with a graham cracker crust, it’s the perfect way to end any meal.
Clam Chowder Bread Bowl
A signature dish in Monterey, the clam chowder bread bowl is a must-try when visiting the city. Creamy and savory, the soup is served in a warm bread bowl that you can eat after you’ve finished the chowder.
Seafood Lover’s Guide to Monterey: Where to Find the Freshest Catch
As a coastal town, Monterey is known for its fresh seafood. Here are five spots to find the freshest catch:
A Special Lobster Bisque Dish
Indulge in a bowl of rich and decadent lobster bisque at this seafood restaurant. Made with fresh lobster meat, cream, and a touch of brandy, it’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day.
The Elegant Seafood Platter
For a luxurious dining experience, head to this seafood spot for their elegant seafood platter. It includes fresh oysters, shrimp, crab, and lobster tail, all served on a bed of ice.
“Spectacular Bouillabaise from a Seafood Restaurant”
A French-inspired seafood stew made with fresh fish, mussels, octopus, and shrimp in a savory tomato broth. This dish is a must-try at this seafood restaurant.
The Best Sushi in Monterey
If you’re in the mood for sushi, head to this restaurant for their fresh and flavorful rolls. From classic California rolls to more adventurous options, there’s something for everyone.
The Iconic Monterey Bay Oysters
Known for their briny and salty flavor, the Monterey Bay oysters are a must-try for seafood lovers. Head to this spot for a platter of freshly shucked oysters with a side of mignonette sauce.
From Wine Tasting to Clam Chowder: A Foodie’s Journey Through Monterey
Monterey is also known for its wine culture and excellent brunch spots. Here are five recommendations for foodies looking to explore the city’s culinary scene:
Coastal Wineries to Visit
Head to this coastal winery for a tasting of their famous Pinot Noir. Located on the outskirts of Monterey, it’s the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon.
Best Brunch Places in Monterey
For a delicious and satisfying brunch, head to this cafe for their famous breakfast burrito or avocado toast. Their house-made chai latte is also not to be missed.
A Delicious Gourmet Burger
For a burger that’s anything but ordinary, head to this restaurant for their gourmet burgers. Choose from a variety of toppings and sauces to create the burger of your dreams.
Ultimate Combination of Wine and Food Pairing
Combine your love of wine and food at this restaurant. They offer a variety of tasting menus paired with local wines, taking your taste buds on a journey through Monterey’s best flavors.
Experiencing the Best Clam Chowder
End your culinary journey in Monterey with a taste of the city’s most beloved dish. Head to this restaurant for their famous clam chowder bread bowl and savor every last bite.
Monterey’s Hidden Food Gems: Locals Share Their Favorite Dining Spots
For a unique and local dining experience, check out these five hidden gems in Monterey:
A Tiny and Unassuming Mexican Food Truck
Don’t let the exterior fool you – this food truck serves some of the best Mexican food in Monterey. Order the carne asada tacos and thank us later.
A Hidden Seafood Restaurant
This seafood restaurant may be off the beaten path, but it’s worth the trek. Order the crab cakes and clam chowder for the ultimate seafood experience.
A Cozy Haven for Succulent Seafood
For a cozy and intimate dining experience, head to this seafood spot for their delicious and succulent seafood dishes. The scallops are especially noteworthy.
A Great Place for Steaks and Burgers
If you’re in the mood for a classic steak or burger dinner, head to this hidden gem. They source their meat from local farms and it shows in the quality of their dishes.
A Food Tour Guide in Monterey
For the ultimate culinary experience in Monterey, book a food tour with this local guide. They’ll take you to the best hidden gems in the city, all while sharing their knowledge and love of Monterey’s food scene.
Conclusion
Monterey’s culinary scene is expansive and diverse, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re a seafood lover, wine enthusiast, or simply a foodie at heart, there’s no shortage of dishes and dining spots to explore in this coastal city. We hope this list inspires you to try something new and to share your experiences with fellow food lovers.
Thank you for joining us on this culinary adventure through Monterey. We can’t wait to see what dishes you discover.
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