31 Best American Restaurants in Monterey

Stokes Adobe restaurant American • $$$
500 Hartnell St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Crispy Potatoes with Truffle Cream Sauce
Australian Wagyu Bavette Steak
Arctic Char and Duck Confit
Seared Hokkaido Scallops
Duck Liver Mousse Toast
Tagliatelle Bolognese
Pappardelle Bolognese
Butternut Squash Soup
Duck Liver Mousse 6oz
Broccoli Fiorentini

“Our visit to Stoke's Adobe last weekend produced the best meal I've had on The Peninsula in a decade! Restauranteur, Sarah Orr, has hit one out of the park. The dishes prepared by Executive Chef, Bryce Hansen, were flawless, my favorties being the seared scallops and truffle chicken. Loved the nod to former occupant and socialite, Hattie Gragg, with the inclusion of the Hattie's Old Fashioned on the cocktail menu :) Looking forward to our next visit and an opportunity to sample other items on their ever evolving menu.“

4.6 Superb489 Reviews
Montrio American • $$$
414 Calle Principal, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Garlic Herb Roasted Jidori Chicken Under a Brick
Warm White Chocolate-Brioche Bread Pudding
Smashed & Duck Fat Fried Yukon Golds W
Braised Boneless Prime Beef Short Rib
Pan Roasted California Duck Breast
Olo Ranch Braised Beef Short Rib
HH Brown Butter Old Fashioned
Hand-Cut Porcini Pomme Frites
White Chocolate Bread Pudding
Jumbo Lump Blue Crab Cakes

“I have found a legitimate broker who has helped me in so many ways in the aspect of forex & cryptocurrency. At first, I was really skeptical that it won't work but I still kept the faith going until I saw a recommendation about Mrs Craig Vanessa who changed my financial status from grass to grace. Once again I'm really grateful for your help and support towards me and my family in this tough time of the year. If you are looking for a change in your finances, then connect to Mrs. Craig Vanessa today on WhatsApp through Facebook via Mrs Craig Vanessa“

4.1 Good554 Reviews
The Sardine Factory Seafood • $$$
701 Wave St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Calamari Steak with Scallops and Prawns over Risotto
Freshly-Shucked Oysters on the Half Shell
Local Favorite Monterey Bay Clam Chowder
Medallions of Filet Mignon Périgourdine
Sardine Factory's Sorbet on Ice Swan
Chocolate Dipped Ice Cream Bonbons
The World Famous Abalone Bisque
Grilled Wild Abalone Medallions
Fresh Ahi Tuna Sashimi Grade
Wild California Sardines

“Took a couple of dates here. The atrium is just beautiful and the food was amazing as always. Top notch in every way!“

4.4 Superb738 Reviews
Alvarado Street Brewery Brewpubs • $$
426 Alvarado St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Monterey Bay Fried Calamari
Loco Moco Lunch Only
Pork Belly Poutine
Everything Pretzels
Wagyu Smash Burger
House Smoked Wings
Alvarado Burger
Mac and Cheese
The Pub Burger
Mushroom Pizza

“Can't recommend this place enough. From being greeted by the hostess to being seated. Our service was amazing and attentive. There are plenty of beer choices. As you will see in the pictures from a dark brown to a hef.
The wings are smoked with a dry rub. I can't explain the flavor except unique. The wings were huge.
The pan pizza had a baked crisped top and was combined with a pan style“

4.5 Superb279 Reviews
Coastal Kitchen Seafood
400 Cannery Row, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

King Salmon Dish w Sweet 100 Japanese Sauce 2 Time a Year
Supplemental Aubergine Truffle Pasta
Cake and Sorbet on Top Dessert
Sashimi of Monterey Halibut
Red Wine Braised Short Rib
House Made Milk Bread
Wood Fired Black Cod
All Vegetables Dish
48 Hour Short Rib
Chocolate Mousse

“Excellent curated dining experience. Will be a go to for us. Stellar food, beverage and service.“

4.4 Superb139 Reviews
Rosine's Restaurant American • $$
434 Alvarado St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Pesto Pasta with Shrimp and Garlic Bread
Homemade Lasagna and Garlic Bread
Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Chicken
Toasted Coconut Chocolate Cake
Homemade Boston Clam Chowder
Minestrone Soup of the Day
Salmon Florentine Benedict
Bacon and Cheese Omelette
Honey Crisp Chicken Salad
California Club Sandwich

“I’ll offer a better than expected review. Our party of five went for Sunday brunch. 1/2 wait for an outdoor table. Excellent Southwest eggs Benedict; chicken fettuccini; fruit salad and Cinnamon toast special with eggs. Chocolate Oreo cake for dessert. Excellent service for a relaxing Sunday. Glad to return and recommend. Cheers!“

4.4 Superb721 Reviews
Cella Restaurant & Bar American • $$$
525 Polk St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Spanish Octopus
Butter Lettuce Salad
Chocolate Mousse
Market Oysters
Olive Oil Cake
Beef Tartare
Steak Tartare
French Fries
Garlic Fries
Gralic Fries

“This place was magical from the second we walked through the turquoise-colored door with its old fashioned door knob. We had no reservation & we were coming from Fieldwork brewing (so my hubby really needed to eat). They had no spots available (reservations are nearly necessary here on Fri. & Sat. they informed us later). However, they promptly set up backyard heater & provided blankets for our quickly provided outdoor seating. We ordered 2 shots of mezcal (cause we were outside & it was kinda cold), which the manager informed us they only served the best ;) They sent out it a waitperson who informed us “I’ll be taking care of you tonight.” Which turned out to be true from the service to dinner/dessert recommendations, and packing up our leftover beans to take home. Eventually, they moved us inside because of a cancelation. And I haven’t even started on the carefully crafted cocktails & food. So meticulously crafted, and presented. I rarely favor restaurant food over my own cooking ability, but I can confidently say their food is way better than my own lol. Again, everything was beautiful, perfect, & delicious! Also, I’m thinking the line for coffee & morning eats at their sister bakery Alta can attest to amazing, soon to be Monterey culinary fixture. Thank you for the memorable night & dinner Cella! Cheers! And look forward to seeing you again.“

4.4 Superb165 Reviews
grandma’s kitchen American • $
2310 N Fremont St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Country Fried Steak with Gravy
Bacon Sausage & Cheese Omelet
Creamed Biscuits and Gravy
Home Fries or Hash Browns
Bacon Eggs and Potatoes
Grandma's Scramble
Breakfast Burrito
Ham Steak & Eggs
Chorizo Scramble
Chicken Fingers

“It saddens me to see any negative reviews in the slightest for this little diner. I won’t sit here and say it was a Michelin restaurant but that’s one of the things I loved about it, I didn’t feel like I was at just some restaurant, it felt cozy, homely, and instilled a nostalgia that sends one back to their childhood. The food seemed to harbor that enticing warm feeling you could only ever get from a nice home cooked meal, if you’re in the area and want a down to earth diner and a reminiscent food experience, this is the place to go“

4.4 Superb99 Reviews
Sunrise Cafe American • $
204 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Belgian Waffle with Berries and Whipped Cream
Breakfast Sandwich with Breakfast Potatoes
Two Eggs Hash Browns Sourdough Toast
Mediterranean Omelette
Smoked Salmon Skillet
Short Stack Pancakes
California Omelette
Country Fried Steak
Buttermilk Pancake
Breakfast Burrito

“Very good breakfast fare and super friendly and efficient staff! A little pricey, but you get generous portions of tasty food. I haven't gotten here to try their lunches yet, but they are very tempting. Very choice alternative to First Awakenings on busy days/weekends.“

4.3 Superb139 Reviews
Black Bear Diner Monterey American • $
2450 N Fremont St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Freshly-Brewed Black Bear Diner Coffee - 96oz
Bacon Eggs & Pancakes Family Meal
Cubs Chocolate Chip Pancakes
California Bacon Benedict
Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Bob's Big Bear Burger
New York Steak & Eggs
Classic Eggs Benedict
Sweet Cream Pancakes
Meat Lovers Omelette

“Good food hood service. ✅✅“

4.3 Superb111 Reviews
Melville Tavern Gastropubs • $$
484 Washington St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Melville Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Blackened Chicken Sandwich
Blackened Shrimp Salad
Loaded Potato Skins
Tavern Chicken Wings
Roasted Duck Pizza
Meatball Sandwich
Blackened Salmon
Mozzarella Sticks
Duck Fettuccine

“Legitimately one of the best customer service experiences I've had. Our server was fantastic! She was very helpful and nice, and you could tell she genuinely liked her job and it wasn't an act.

Food was also fantastic! A little greasy, but very good! I would definitely return!“

4.2 Good186 Reviews
Del Monte & grill & cafe American • $
Dine in and Patios Are Open, 2030 N Fremont St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Hash Browns Bacon Scrambled Eggs and Toast
Turkey Bacon Omelet
Belgian Waffle Combo
American Breakfast
Ultimate Breakfast
French Toast Combo
Breakfast Burrito
Huevos Rancheros
Steak Quesadilla
House Pancakes

“I had a late breakfast here the other day, and it was exactly what I had in mind. The food was absolutely delicious! They ensured that I had everything I needed, and my coffee mug was always full.

I’m not a picky person when it comes to interior or exterior design, or even the type of music is playing. I only care about the food and service, and they did great 5/5!“

4.3 Superb61 Reviews
Bon Ton L'Roy's Lighthouse Smokehouse Barbecue • $$
794 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Combination BBQ Dinner Plates
Beef Brisket Sandwich
BBQ Brisket Sandwich
Macaroni and Cheese
Mac \u0026 Cheese
Chicken Sandwich
Stuffed Cabbage
Beef Stroganoff
Bananas Foster
French Toast

“I’m from out of state. A group of us travel several times a year and have tried many restaurants. We always try to go to restaurants we wouldn’t have at home. This was by far the best. The homemade French press hot tea, Bloody Mary, rice and beans, cabbage rolls, caeser salad and turkey lentil soup. I can’t say enough about the owner and food. Give them a try!“

4.2 Good86 Reviews
Fin + Field Restaurant and Bar American • $$
350 Calle Principal, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Cheddar Grilled Cheese
Beer Battered
Fish Tacos
Salad

“Came here while on vacation with my husband for dinner and twice for breakfast. The service was fantastic as well as the food. Fidel was super friendly, kind, and brightened our vacation so much. He is very knowledgeable about the area and wanted to steer us in the right direction when visiting places. His service was outstanding and his team was awesome, too. Next time we vacation in Monterey we hope to see him again! The food, as I mentioned earlier, was fantastic. I got the cauliflower steak and was surprised how good it was. My husband got the award-winning clam chowder bread bowl and he said it was the best he’s ever had. Normally restaurants will load up their chowder with potatoes, but in his bowl, there were plenty of clams. We finished off the night with the chocolate cake and a scoop of ice cream to pair with the wine we brought. Amazing combination.

Thank you to Fidel and his team for making our dining experiences unforgettable!

The breakfast buffet was also amazing. They had a made-to-order omelet and waffle bar as well as a ton of other items in the buffet, including: sausage, bacon, eggs, roasted potatoes, corn beef hash, cereal, fresh fruit, yogurt, pastries, muffins, donuts, biscuits, gravy, oatmeal and toppings, hard boiled eggs, and more.“

4.7 Superb18 Reviews
Monterey Cookhouse American • $$
2149 N Fremont St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Steak New York with Baked Potato
Cookhouse Grilled Artichoke
Triple Chocolate Mousse
Pulled Pork Sliders
Spaghetti Bolognese
Grilled Mahi Mahi
Fettuccine Alfredo
The Beast Burger
Cookhouse Burger
Fisherman Plate

“We were visiting on a golf trip and stopped in here for dinner. Absolutely excellent food with outstanding customer service! Thank you for making our first meal on our trip a fantastic one! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“

4.1 Good140 Reviews
Woody’s At The Airport American • $$
200 Fred Kane Dr #201, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Classic New England Clam Chowder
Seared Ahi Tuna Niçoise Salad
Sand Dabs and Calamari Combo
Hawaiian Mahi Mahi Sandwich
Beer Battered Onion Rings
Taco Tuesday Chicken Taco
Cobb Salad with Chicken
Huevos Rancheros Plate
Swank Farms Beet Salad
Pastrami Sandwich

“We had a wonderful meal sitting with heaters overlooking the airport runway. Chef Tim Wood is a excellent cook, and all our food was fresh, and delicious. I highly recommend this unique restaurant to enjoy!“

4.1 Good135 Reviews
Islands Restaurant Monterey American • $$
300 Del Monte Center, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Kilauea with Whole Wheat Bun and Sweet Potato Fries
Island Nachos Supreme
Fresh Cut Island Fries
Chips and Guacamole
Tempura Green Beans
Beachside Sliders
Burger and Fries
Chicken Sandwich
Kilauea Burger
Jr Wave Burger

“Here on Vacation and had a great visit the service was amazing and the food was so good. I loved this place in Roseville but they closed it so it was glad to have it again. yum 10/10“

4.1 Good106 Reviews
American Burger American • $
738 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Avocado Burger
Sweet Potato Fries
Burger and Fries
Seasoned Fries
Classic Burger
Veggie Burger
Lettuce Wrap
Fish & Chips
French Fries
Onion Rings

“Cool ambience, exceptionally nice service!���“

4.1 Good47 Reviews
19

Denny's

Denny's Diner • $
300 Fremont St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Double Berry Banana Pancakes Side
Hamburger with Fries with Cheese
Double Berry Banana Pancake Slam
Grand Slam and Strawberry Crepes
Bourbon Chicken Sizzlin Skillet
BBQ Bacon Chicken Sandwich
Strawberry Banana Pancakes
Classic Burger with Fries
Santa Fe Sizzlin' Skillet
Classic Burger & Fries

“Bom atendimento, pratos rápidos e bem servidos.“

4.5 Superb320 Reviews
Duffy's Tavern & Family Restaurant Family • $
282 High St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Great Burger with Sweet Potato Fries
Hamburger with Bacon Cheddar Burger
The bb Bacon and Blue Burger
Hamburger and Onion Rings
Chili Burger and Fries
Cheeseburger and Fries
Neighborhood Bar
Potato Au Gratin
Spaghetti Kids
Fiesta Burger

“Yum!!! We came for the burgers and they were delicious! We tried the Fiesta and Terikayi Mushroom burgers as well as the stuffed tater tots! So yummy all around! The burgers tasted so fresh and they were huge! It's a small place but very kind people and seems like a lot of people are regulars, don't blame them at all! Yum!“

4.7 Superb111 Reviews
Tarpy's Roadhouse Steak House • $$
2999 Monterey Salinas Hwy, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Mixed Greens Salad with a Dijon-Red Wine Vinaigrette
Deviled Eggs with Truffle Aioli and Fried Capers
Smoked Salmon with Scalloped Potatoes
Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich
Penne Pasta with Grilled Chicken
Syrah-Braised Bison Short Rib
Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
Chocolate Cake with Ice Cream
Crispy Calamari -Tarpys
Giant Bavarian Pretzel

“I have found a legitimate broker who has helped me in so many ways in the aspect of forex & cryptocurrency. At first, I was really skeptical that it won't work but I still kept the faith going until I saw a recommendation about Mrs Craig Vanessa who changed my financial status from grass to grace. Once again I'm really grateful for your help and support towards me and my family in this tough time of the year. If you are looking for a change in your finances, then connect to Mrs. Craig Vanessa today on WhatsApp through Facebook via Mrs Craig Vanessa“

4.3 Superb581 Reviews
The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar American • $$
653 Cannery Row, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Garlic Fries Sweet Sticky Pork Belly and Nachos
Chicken Strips French Fries
Beer Battered Fish & Chips
Mozzarella Sticks
Pork Belly Tacos
Soup of the Day
Fish and Chips
Calamari Rings
Meat Nachos
Cottage Pie

“We walked in to give it a try on March 4th for a drink stayed till live band finished then went back the next night to have a drink and enjoyed it even more even though I was semi raining I'm glad I had my umbrella because we where at the outside patio under a warm warmer and a very nice fire I front of us. Drinks where delicious and we ment many people from different places. Let's not forget the live band that night. I can't wait to return not only for drinks but food because we had early dinner so next time and the service made us feel welcome.“

3.6 Good143 Reviews
Lalla Grill Del Monte Bar & Grill • $$
1400 Del Monte Center, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Pistachio Crusted Chicken Salad
Traditional Enchilada Platter
Butternut Squash Enchiladas
Poblano Chicken Enchilada
Red and Green Sauces Add
Blue Cheese Steak Bites
Mexico City Chilaquiles
Creme Brulee Waffle
Calamari Appetizer
Lalla Cheese Burger

“Our first visit to Lalla Grill Del Monte and it was fabulous! The food was delicious. Our waiter Tino was friendly, professional, and on top of everything. Later we went to the bar. It was fully stocked and the bartender, Rae, was the bomb! Worth a visit if you are in the area! Highly recommend.“

4.4 Superb169 Reviews
Peter B’s Brewpub Brewery • $$
Two Portola Plaza, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Tasting 5 Different Beers
Wings and Cheese Curds
Brewpub Fish N' Chips
Crispy Cheese Curds
Nachos with Chicken
Fried Cheese Curds
Bavarian Pretzel
Burger and Fries
Tempura Calamari
Craft Beer Pint

“I have found a legitimate broker who has helped me in so many ways in the aspect of forex & cryptocurrency. At first, I was really skeptical that it won't work but I still kept the faith going until I saw a recommendation about Mrs Craig Vanessa who changed my financial status from grass to grace. Once again I'm really grateful for your help and support towards me and my family in this tough time of the year. If you are looking for a change in your finances, then connect to Mrs. Craig Vanessa today on WhatsApp through Facebook via Mrs Craig Vanessa“

4.4 Superb105 Reviews
Louie Linguini's Seafood • $$
660 Cannery Row, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Monterey Rock Cod Fish Tacos
Seafood Fettuccine Carbonara
Clam Chowder Bread Bowl
Spaghetti with Meatballs
Fisherman's Platter
Gilroy Garlic Fries
Crab & Garlic Fries
Margherita Pizza
Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Farfalle

“Great food, view and location. Friendly service right in the heart of Cannery Row.“

4.1 Good307 Reviews
Aquarium Cafe American • $$
886 Cannery Row, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Cookie Sandwich
Fruit Salad
Poke

“This café is located inside the aquarium, offering a unique setting to grab a bite while surrounded by marine life. Visitor traffic varies depending on the time of day and year, as the area is a popular tourist destination that naturally draws large crowds. When it comes to pricing, it’s true that the food is on the expensive side for what you receive. However, it’s worth noting that proceeds from purchases help support the aquarium’s operations and conservation efforts, so your spending contributes to a good cause.

While there are plenty of dining options outside the aquarium—some even considered must-tries—it’s important to remember the café is more of a convenience than a culinary highlight. The food itself is average and won’t impress gourmet enthusiasts, but it’s suitable if you’re looking for a quick snack or light meal during your visit. The staff is friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall experience. Ultimately, this café serves its purpose well: a convenient stop for refreshments during your aquarium visit, rather than a standalone dining destination. If you’re visiting with the expectation of fine dining, consider planning your main meals elsewhere and enjoy the café for what it is—simple, practical, and part of the aquarium experience.“

3 Average79 Reviews
Mando's Restaurant Mexican • $
570 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Cheese Enchilada Combo Plate 1 Chicken Enchilada
Chorizo Breakfast Burrito
Grandma's Potatoes
Tampiaquena Plate
Mando's Burrito
Chips and Salsa
Carnitas Plate
Caldo de Pollo
French Toast
Carne Asada

“The best Mexican food around! Always fresh and always feels like every bite is made with love! And if your a breakfast lover like myself then the breakfast burrito is always a great choice with different meat options! Did I mention it's breakfast all day?!? Run don't walk to mando's for some authentic cooking! Don't miss them at the Beacon Film Festival may 18th at 1pm and may 19th at 5pm“

4.1 Good103 Reviews
Urban Kitchen Catering & Events Mexican • $$
1425 Munras Ave, Monterey

“Urban Kitchen Hospitality was such a pleasure to work with. Rene and his team did an amazing job on a catered event for 350 people. They are professional, very customer friendly and easy to work with. I highly recommend Urban Kitchen Hospitality for your next event. Bree Osborne, Marketing Manager - City of Santee, CA“

5 Superb7 Reviews
Full Moon Mandarin Cuisine Chinese • $
429 Alvarado St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

boiled beef 水煮牛肉
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Wonton in Spicy Sauce
水煮鱼 boiled fish
Shrimp Fried Rice
Spicy Fried Fish
Hot and Sour Soup
Dan Dan Noodles
Mongolian Beef
Garlic Chicken

“Terrific Asian restaurant. My favorite is the chicken fried rice. The spring rolls and potstickers are also good. A cozy little family owned restaurant in downtown Monterey. Like ALL better restaurants, there is NO surcharge for using a credit card. Parking can sometimes be a small challenge, I found out when I was in there that they have more parking behind the building also. Only negative, you have to bring your own Cokes. They have some kind of a Coke substitute there. Pro tip, eat with chopsticks, not a fork. Highly recommended.“

4.1 Good72 Reviews
Del Monte Bar & Grill Bar • $
1300 Sylvan Rd, Monterey
4.4 Superb14 Reviews
Turn 12 Bar & Grill Bar & Grill • $$
400 Tyler St, Monterey

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup
Spaghetti and Meatballs
Honey Truffle Chicken
Sweet Potato Fries
Short Rib Burger
Chicken Sandwich
Chicken Primisan
Ahi Tuna Tower
Truffle Fries
Turn 12 Pizza

“really good service. and ggood food. 😁 breakfast pizza 🔥“

4 Good179 Reviews

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