Best Restaurants in Monterey, California

Monterey, California is home to a thriving food scene with a wide variety of dining options for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re searching for the best restaurants in Monterey, popular local favorites, or top-rated places to eat, this guide highlights the most visited and highly recommended restaurants across the city.

From casual eateries to upscale dining experiences, discover where locals and visitors love to eat in Monterey.

Top Restaurants in Monterey

From popular neighborhood spots to destination dining, Monterey offers something for every taste. Use our curated listings to find the top restaurants in Monterey based on popularity, reviews, and overall dining experience.

226 Votes

My Attic Bar and Lounge

414 Alvarado Street, Monterey, California, 93940
Monday- Closed Tuesday-Sa...
$30 and under
Tapas / Small Plates, Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service, Italian

214 Votes

The Wild Plum Cafe & Urban Organic Eatery

731 Munras Avenue, Monterey, California, 93940
Mon, Wed-Sun 7:00 am-3:30...
$30 and under
American

231 Votes

Epsilon

422 Tyler Street, Monterey, California, 93940
Lunch: Mon-Fri- 11am to 2...
$30 and under
Greek, Seafood, Mediterranean

240 Votes

The Lantern Room

2600 Sand Dunes Drive, Monterey, California, 93940
Breakfast Daily 7:00 am-1...
$31 to $50
Californian, Seafood

213 Votes

Lopez Restaurante y Cantina

635 Cass St., Monterey, California, 93940
Lunch: Daily: 11:00AM - 4...
$30 and under
Mexican

245 Votes

The Club Room

Two Portola Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
Hours of Operation: Break...
$30 and under
Breakfast, European, American

227 Votes

TusCA Restaurant

1 Old Golf Course Road, Monterey, California, 93940
Breakfast: 6:30 am to 11:...
$30 and under
Italian, Californian

223 Votes

Paprika Cafe

309 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey, California, 93940
Saturday 11:00 am - 7:00 pm
$$
Mediterranean Cuisine

244 Votes

Stokes Adobe

500 Hartnell St., Monterey, California, 93940
Saturday 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm
$$
Contemporary

200 Votes

The Sardine Factory

701 Wave St., Monterey, California, 93940
Saturday 4:30 pm - 10:00 pm
$$
Seafood

207 Votes

Coastal Kitchen

400 Cannery Row, Monterey, California, 93940
Saturday 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
$$
Contemporary

181 Votes

Montrio Bistro

414 Calle Principal, Monterey, California, 93940
Saturday 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
$$
Contemporary

More About Restaurants in Monterey

Best Restaurants in Monterey by Cuisine

If you already know what you’re craving, browse by cuisine to find the best places to eat in Monterey faster.

Best Mexican Restaurants in Monterey
Best Italian Restaurants in Monterey
Best Steakhouses in Monterey
Best Seafood Restaurants in Monterey
Best Sushi Restaurants in Monterey
Best American Restaurants in Monterey

Best Places to Eat in Monterey for Every Occasion

People don’t just search by cuisine — they search by the moment. Explore restaurants in Monterey for brunch, celebrations, date nights, and more.

Best Brunch in Monterey
Romantic Restaurants in Monterey
Best Fine Dining in Monterey
Family-Friendly Restaurants in Monterey
Best Restaurants for Groups in Monterey
Best Outdoor Dining in Monterey

Why Monterey Is a Great City for Food

Monterey’s food scene is shaped by local culture, regional ingredients, and a growing community of chefs and independent restaurants. Whether you want casual comfort food or an elevated dining experience, there are plenty of highly rated restaurants in Monterey worth exploring.

How We Rank the Best Restaurants in Monterey

Restaurants are featured and ranked using a combination of popularity and visitor interest, online reviews and ratings, reputation and consistency, and overall dining experience. Our goal is to help diners discover restaurants people genuinely love — from well-known favorites to hidden gems.

Monterey Restaurant FAQs

The best restaurants in Monterey include top-rated and popular dining spots known for quality food, service, and overall experience.

Many of the city’s best restaurants are located in popular neighborhoods and dining districts throughout Monterey.

Some popular restaurants recommend reservations, especially during weekends and peak dining hours.

Monterey offers a wide range of restaurants, including casual dining, fine dining, international cuisine, and family-friendly options.

Explore Nearby Cities Monterey

If you’re exploring beyond Monterey, browse restaurant guides for nearby areas:

Best Restaurants in

Best Restaurants in Monterey, California

Top Restaurants in Monterey

More About Restaurants in Monterey

Best Restaurants in Monterey by Cuisine

Best Places to Eat in Monterey for Every Occasion

Why Monterey Is a Great City for Food

How We Rank the Best Restaurants in Monterey

Monterey Restaurant FAQs

What are the best restaurants in Monterey, California?

What area of Monterey has the best restaurants?

Do I need reservations at top restaurants in Monterey?

What types of restaurants can I find in Monterey?

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