Visitors Guide 2024

96 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® 2024-2025 FOOD La Casa del Sazón Mexican See listing under Salinas. 431 Tyler St., Monterey. (831) 230-0570, lacasadelsazon. com Lalla Oceanside Grill American Unimpeded views over McAbee Beach and funky contemporary chandeliers give the place an elegant yet festive ambiance. And there is a massive range of choices. The bar is a nice spot for cocktails. 654 Cannery Row, Monterey. (831) 324-0891, lallaoceansidegrill. com Louie Linguini’s Italian Louie Linguini’s has built a reputation in seafood and Italian with a spot smack in the middle of Cannery Row. Classic recipes, a few twists and some pizza, all served with a stunning view of the bay. 660 Cannery Row, Monterey. (831) 648-8500, louielinguinis.com LouLou’s Griddle in the Middle Diner Tiny and charming, LouLou’s is a treasure in a unique Wharf 2 spot. Home fries and fluffy pancakes at breakfast give way to generous salads and affordable fish specials at lunchtime. The counter is purely old-school diner, but just open Friday-Monday. A local fave. Municipal Wharf 2, Monterey. (831) 372-0568, loulousgriddle.com Manasiri’s Crepes and Sandwiches Creperie You can go sweet or savory with the crepes and there are plenty of options. Manasiri’s also prepares paninis, avocado toast and desserts. There’s also Turkish coffee to consider. 321 Alvarado St., Monterey. (831) 373-4646 Mando’s Mexican The price is right at this cozy, comfort-style Mexican restaurant. Once a favorite in Pacific Grove, Mando’s moved to Monterey in May of 2023. 570 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey Melville Tavern American This downtown Monterey bar-and-grill enjoys the feel of an established spot because of the old-school ambiance and a strong local following. They come for friendly service and very fair prices on beer and wine, plus quality gastropub fare. 484 Washington St., Monterey. (831) 643-9525, melvilletav.com Mission 19 Taqueria Mexican An unassuming space on a Lighthouse Avenue corner that will not catch your attention until you approach the counter. Yes, they are making tortillas by hand. Yes, the birria has been simmering all day. Yes, it’s worth a visit. 598 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey. (831) 717-4843 Monterey Bay Aquarium Restaurant Seafood Sustainable seafood is just part of the menu here—you might be fooled by some of the vegan options, which get extra points for sustainability. You don’t have to leave your Aquarium tour. 886 Cannery Row, Monterey. (831) 648-4800, montereybayaquarium.org Monterey Cookhouse Global There’s pizza, pasta, meats cooked on a woodfired grill, meats that have been smoked, barbecue-style, seafood, salads, burgers… in fact, there’s probably something that will catch anyone’s attention. 2149 N. Fremont St., Monterey. (831) 642-9900, montereycookhouse.com Monterey’s Fish House Seafood As the name implies, seafood is the Fish House’s strong suit. Traditional homestyle cooking with an Italian influence and a touch of Japanese flavor characterize many dishes, as well as a touch of nostalgia. Often a line out the door. 2114 Del Monte Ave., Monterey. (831) 373-4647, montereyfishhouse.com Montrio Global Long considered one of the city’s best restaurants, Montrio is back in action after a remodel. There’s a new lineup of craft cocktails and the same friendly service that won it a place in locals’ hearts, but it’s the cuisine that proves most memorable. The menu updates seasonally. 414 Calle Principal, Monterey. (831) 6488880, montrio.com Nacho Bizness Eclectic The owners don’t know the limits of nachos, or at least they haven’t found any. Top Taco Works chips (regular or hella sized) with your choice of cheese sauce (vegan included), meat and toppings that include beans, pico and habanero relish. Nachos not your jam? Use mac-n-cheese as a base instead. 470 Alvarado St., Monterey. nachobiz.biz Namaste Indian Bistro Indian Namaste provides an easy atmosphere and attentive service with a smile to go with tasteful creations from the back. The affordable plates help inspire customers to come back for more. 538 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey. (831) 641-0130, namasteindiabistro.com Old Fisherman’s Grotto Seafood For over 55 years, Old Fisherman’s Grotto has been serving fish, lobster, crab, pasta, chicken, steaks and its famous clam chowder. Another plus: Every table has an ocean view. 39 Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey. (831) 3754604, oldfishermansgrotto.com NIK BLASKOVICH Seventh & Dolores

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