Taste Cafe & Bistro

Taste is a hidden gem, loved by locals. This family run restaurant serves excellent traditional French food with friendly service.

First time the food in person was fantastic and even though the service felt a bit strange and slow we wanted to definitely go again. Second time service was better but after eating the dinner caused severe stomach issues for spouse and I. Also did not taste nearly as good. Sadly not coming back despite outstanding food the first time. Maybe it was because of different hours... First time ate at close to 4pm

The food was really excellent. We felt really welcome, with a real sense of hospitality.
Mme Suzanne really took care of all our needs.
Highly recommended!

Great little breaskfast/lunch place. Staff is wonderfull, food is delicious, and the price is reasoanble.

A wonderful family owned restaurant off the beaten track, where everything was perfect from start to finish: the atmosphere with a nice family touch by the personal decorations and pictures, the menu choices, the quality of the Prosecco and red wine we had and all the dishes. The artichoke lentil soup was just perfect, we enjoyed three vegetarian pasta dishes that were all quite different and very tasty, and the chocolate mousse finish was excellent. Will become our first choice when visiting the Monterey Bay again.

Rude server. Didn’t greet us at the door a chef literally had to seat. Then took forever to take our order even though it wasn’t busy. Then when we asked if a certain part of a dish could be substituted she rudely said there is nothing possible. Unreal probably just a racist. They also chased us down to pay when we did so through their app. Not even an apology never coming again.

I am Italian or part so personally I am fond of this restaurant and enjoy the service, aesthetic, the food and personal relationship with the owner! She’s very nice and her husband is hard working too! 🇮🇹 Bon appetite!

I absolutely regret dining here. The restaurant was clearly understaffed, leading to slow and inattentive service, but what made it worse was the outright rudeness of the staff. If I hadn’t been too hungry and short on options, I would have left immediately. The environment is very average—nothing special—and the crowd mainly consists of elderly patrons. This is a regular, no-frills spot, not a fine dining experience by any means. If you’re looking for a smooth and enjoyable meal, this place will likely leave you frustrated. Definitely not worth the visit.

Wonderful little find in Monterey. The food was delicious and well presented. We actually ate at a 5 star restaurant the night before and felt like this was the better meal. We were seated by the wall with all of the family photos and it was cool to see those same faces making the food and engaging with patrons. While we didn’t speak to the owners specifically, our waitress was very sweet and attentive. Would highly recommend trying this place out if you’re looking for a high quality meal that’s more modestly priced.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

The food and atmosphere were great, but the food took a while even though we were the first ones there. Of course, the quality of the food made the wait not matter. I got the Penne Pesto, and highly recommend it.

Kid-friendliness: Completely kid friendly.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Escargot

My friends took me out for my birthday last night, and Susan the owner was so welcoming, we felt like we were at her house eating dinner with her, sharing stories, laughing, delighted with everything she brought us (sea bass special, filet mignon, eggplant sandwich, all really delicious) As we sat closest to the door, we saw people come in, Susan greeting many by their name, saying goodbye with warm hugs. She surprised me with a candle lit dessert, everyone at the restaurant singing happy birthday. She even gave me a hug. I was so touched by her lovely gesture. At the end of the evening, each of us were planing for another night at Taste with our family members. We all hope to become Taste regulars!! Thank you!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Dear Sue and Bill,

was such a pleasant surprise for me and my husband to be treated as your guests on Friday night!
We just happened to look for a cosy place to have our dinner, on our way to Asilomar. And we took the chance of trying European cuisine at your place in Pacific Grove.
We are originally from Europe and were very curious if you could make us feel like home!
The food was delicious and light, the bread with rosemary garlic plive oil to dye for!
Thank you for your hospitality! We will be back soon!
Liana & Dan

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Excellent welcome. Fast service. And above all, what quality! It's good for the taste buds. Tasted a fillet of lamb (3 beautiful pieces rolled up) accompanied by tasty spinach and an extraordinary gratin dauphinois (ah if we could still find such a gratin in French restaurants...); $37. The chocolate mousse is also worth the detour for $9.

Absolutely exquisite food and flavors. The service was kind and helpful, and the food was amazing. Cannot recommend the desserts enough as well, so save room! We will be back for sure. The butternut squash agnolotti was out of this world.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Everything was delicious. The staff were, somehow, all very good-looking and incredibly kind and patient, and the decor was very cozy and comfortable. The Chef thanked us for stopping in. We loved it.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Grilled Rabbit, Caesar Salad Half, Country Apple Galette, Sphaghetti Pasta with Chicken, Ravioli, Apple Tartine, New York Steak