Monterey California, USA Travel Guide
Monterey's culinary scene heavily reflects its coastal location and its past as a fishing and canning hub. Seafood, notably local catches, remains paramount.
A growing farm-to-table movement highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Spanish and Mexican influences remain present due to California's historical roots, visible in dishes and dining traditions.
Known for classic seafood shacks, often serving clam chowder, fish and chips, and crab. Anticipate a lively, tourist-oriented atmosphere.
Has a mix of upscale seafood restaurants and more casual tourist dining. Many restaurants here boast ocean views.
This area offers a diverse range of cuisines, including Italian, Mexican, Asian, and a growing number of farm-to-table establishments. Locate more local favorites here.
A quintessential Monterey experience. This creamy clam chowder comes in a hollowed-out, crusty sourdough loaf. Find it at nearly all restaurants on Fisherman's Wharf.
A must-try for any visitor.
Monterey is historically known for its squid fisheries. Enjoy it fried as crispy rings, grilled, or incorporated into pasta dishes. Sand dabs, a local flatfish, often come lightly pan-fried to a delicate crisp.
Local delicacies with a rich history.
Seasonal Dungeness Crab, typically available from November to June. Enjoy it steamed or in crab cakes. From nearby Castroville, anticipate grilled artichokes or creamy artichoke soup.
Fresh, seasonal delights.
This festival features diverse food vendors with a variety of cuisines, catering to the festival crowd. Experience great food and music in a setting.
These markets provide seasonal produce, baked goods, and prepared foods, allowing you to taste what is fresh and locally sourced. A true community experience.
Monterey offers several upscale dining experiences for special occasions.
Many restaurants present a balance of quality, ambiance, and value.
Affordable options and opportunities for self-catering.
Widely available. Most restaurants present vegetarian dishes, and many suit vegan requests. Dedicated vegan or vegetarian restaurants also exist in increasing numbers.
Use apps like HappyCow to locate these.
Many restaurants acknowledge gluten-free diets and other common allergies (e.g., dairy, nuts). It always remain wise to inform your server clearly about any dietary restrictions or severe allergies.
Discuss cross-contamination with staff for severe allergies.
Learn local cuisine or explore history through food tours.
Visit Salinas Valley farms and local vineyards.
Experience various local food and music festivals.
Oceanfront dining and historic cannery ambiance.
Many restaurants on Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf offer stunning ocean or harbor views, making a memorable dining experience.
Enjoy the scenery with your meal.
Experience the ambiance of transformed industrial buildings on Cannery Row, where you dine in spaces that once processed sardines.
A glimpse into Monterey's past.
A popular Italian restaurant on the Wharf, known for its fresh seafood pasta dishes and views of the harbor.
A popular downtown spot for American comfort food, serving breakfast and lunch with a homey feel.
Some local culinary schools or specific restaurants occasionally offer classes focusing on local seafood or California cuisine.
Food tours (walking tours with tastings) are available, often focusing on Fisherman's Wharf or downtown Monterey, presenting insights into culinary history.
Visit farms in the nearby Salinas Valley, often called the "Salad Bowl of the World." Many have farm stands for fresh produce.
Many restaurants on Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf offer stunning ocean or harbor views, making a memorable dining experience.
Enjoy scenic meals.
Experience the ambiance of transformed industrial buildings on Cannery Row, where you dine in spaces that once processed sardines.
A glimpse into the past.
During peak fishing seasons, you can acquire fresh seafood directly from vendors on the wharf, a true local experience.
Many shops, specifically in tourist areas, offer a wide array of ice cream and gelato flavors. Look for local baked goods too.
Capture the food scenes, from colorful markets to beautifully plated dishes in scenic settings.
Engage with Monterey's food culture through hands-on experiences and local events. This enhances your culinary journey.
