Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. California Central Coast

Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Monterey

Price
Cuisine
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

34 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Old Fisherman's Grotto restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1605)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Monterey
Booked 9 times today
Nestled on the historic Fisherman's Wharf, overlooking the picturesque Monterey Harbor, Old Fisherman’s Grotto is a must-visit dining destination. Renowned worldwide for its exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, and charming ambiance, the Grotto offers a culinary experience like no other. Our menu showcases fresh seafood sourced sustainably, USDA prime beef, and an extensive wine selection with over 200 choices recognized by Wine Spectator Magazine. With a commitment to providing an intimate dining atmosphere, we enforce a zero-tolerance policy for excessive noise levels, ensuring a pleasant experience for all our guests. We kindly ask patrons to keep noise levels moderate to respect others' dining experiences.
A photo of Montrio restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4199)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Monterey
Booked 17 times today
Montrio is a neighborhood gem located in the heart of downtown Monterey. With its fine European-inspired Californian cuisine, it has been a local favorite for over 25 years. Reviewers rave about the unique atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious food. It's the perfect place for a romantic dinner, small business meeting, or a night out with friends. As one reviewer put it, 'From the amazing food, creative cocktails and top notch staff you'll love every minute of it.'
A photo of Domenico's on the Wharf restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1631)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Monterey
Booked 12 times today
That friendly salutation is an invitation to dine with us and enjoy exceptional bayside ambiance, gracious service and delicious food. Our entire staff here at Domenico's On the Wharf has extended a warm welcome to locals and visitors for more than 35 years, and we proudly present the best seafood in Monterey for your dining pleasure.Our award-winning list of wine features the best from surrounding Monterey County vineyards, and we offer extensive selections from Sonoma, Napa, Italy, and France. The freshest, sustainable, local and Alaskan seafood take center stage in our culinary creations, and we also grill up extraordinary steaks and lovingly prepare in-house pastas and locally grown organic vegetables.Our family style of hospitality continues to win a special place in the hearts of our guests. Let us show you to your table overlooking the beautiful bay waters with a sunny window view of sea lions and pelicans at play.
A photo of Schooners Monterey restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3020)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Monterey
Booked 47 times today
Schooners, suspended over the waters of Monterey Bay, is a stunning restaurant featuring sustainable seafood and approachable, contemporary American cuisine. The ideal location for celebrating the Central Coast and the spectacular coastal region, the Schooners team commitment to fresh, sustainable seafood is reflected in the creative menu which features a variety of seafood options, both raw and cooked, as well as appetizers, soups, salads and main courses. A creative cocktail menu is served alongside an impressive wine list highlighting Monterey County vintners.
A photo of Sardine Factory restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4948)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Monterey
Booked 43 times today
Every city has that one can’t miss restaurant, where celebrities feel at home and every other guest feels like a celebrity. Since October 2, 1968, The Sardine Factory’s cachet has made dining in our historic Cannery Row setting a tradition for world leaders, sports heroes and entertainment icons. Our award-winning chefs prepare delectable creations of fresh, sustainable seafood and USDA Prime Aged Beef; winner of Restaurant Hospitality Magazine’s "Best Wine List in America" award. The Lounge’s live entertainment, Happy Hour and affordable menu are a casual alternative to our other dining rooms. Celebrating over 50 years under the same ownership and management! Voted "Best Restaurant in Monterey" by Monterey County Herald readers.
A photo of Fish Hopper restaurant
4.5
Awesome(3740)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Monterey
Booked 48 times today
Experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean combined with world-class dining on historic Cannery Row, just a short walk from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The newly renovated Fish Hopper, housed in an original sardine cannery building, offers spectacular views of the stunning Monterey Bay from every table, including our heated outdoor patio. The Fish Hopper specializes in fresh, sustainable seafood, certified Angus beef, pastas, and live shellfish. Our seafood is either locally caught or shipped in fresh daily, and our produce is locally grown in the Salinas Valley. Some favorites include fresh Monterey Bay abalone, macadamia-crusted halibut, our famous “Tomahawk Chop” bone-in rib eye, and fresh Dungeness crab. Start your meal with our award-winning clam chowder, and indulge in one of our many exotic cocktail creations or a selection from our extensive wine collection. While enjoying your delicious meal, you can watch sea otters at play and even catch a glimpse of the occasional whale.
A photo of The Whaling Station Steakhouse restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2411)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Monterey
Booked 18 times today
The internationally acclaimed Whaling Station Steakhouse, perched just above Steinbeck’s Cannery Row has been Monterey County’s #1 Steak House for over 50 years, The Whaling Station takes the term “Steakhouse” seriously...Select your USDA Prime cut of the USA’s finest beef from a silver tray or enjoy our slow-roasted USDA Prime, Prime Rib. An award-winning wine list and full spirits bar compliment your dining experience. Serving Dinner and cocktails from 4:30pm daily. The Bar at The Whaling Station Steakhouse has its own menu and its own local following, with drink specials and lively conversation served nightly. Parking in our private lot. A private, 50-seat banquet room is also available.
A photo of L'Escargot - Carmel restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1240)
Price: Moderate
• French • Carmel
Booked 8 times today
Nestled in a residential neighborhood on Mission Street, three blocks north of Ocean Avenue lies a slice of “Old Carmel”. Originally founded in 1958 by Yvan Nopert and his family, Chef – Owner Kericos Loutas carries on the traditions of superb Country French Cuisine and personalized friendly service. A local favorite for casual fine dining in a romantic atmosphere, L’Escargot offers visitors an alternative to the “tourist experience”. The menu changes frequently, as do the specials. A three-course prix fixed Bistro Menu is offered nightly.
A photo of Passionfish restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(7213)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Pacific Grove
Booked 32 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.
A photo of Beach House Restaurant at Lovers Point restaurant
4.5
Awesome(4284)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Pacific Grove
Booked 23 times today
Casual California dining overlooking scenic and historic Lovers Point Beach.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Monterey

Discover the charm of California's Central Coast with our curated selection of "neighborhood gem" restaurants in Monterey / Carmel. Each featured eatery stands out for its unique ambiance, exceptional service, and a commitment to culinary excellence, making them true local favorites. Whether you're in the mood for Mediterranean delights, traditional American comfort food, the freshest seafood, or European-inspired Californian cuisine, these restaurants provide an authentic taste of Monterey's diverse dining scene. The area is renowned not just for its picturesque settings but also for its vibrant culinary landscape, offering something for every palate. Enjoy a meal where quality ingredients and heartfelt hospitality meet, ensuring a memorable dining experience every time. These establishments are celebrated not only for their food but also for their ability to craft a truly intimate and welcoming atmosphere — the very essence of a neighborhood gem. Perfect for both casual outings and special occasions, each restaurant promises a delightful exploration of local flavors and traditions.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo