Restaurants in Monterey Bay
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Bagelry
The bagels here are real (boiled, then baked), and come with fantastic spreads, especially the hummus and egg salad. Check out the bulletin board for local goings-on.
reviewed
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A
Zachary’s
The breakfast spot covetous locals don’t want you to know about (hide your guidebook). ‘Mike’s Mess’ is the kitchen-sink standout.
reviewed
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B
Farmers Market
For organic fruits and vegetables and a taste of the local vibe, hit this oh-so-colorful farmers market.
reviewed
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C
Sardine Factory
For a formal sit-down dinner with pampering service, the Sardine Factory is it. It's a 40-year-old institution that still prepares fine steaks and seafood, but its real strength lies in its atmosphere and wine list. It can be pricey, so consider its three-course prixe-fix dinners (17:00 to 19:00) or simply something off the tapas menu and a glass of wine. Each of its dining rooms is ornately and uniquely decorated, but my favorite is the glass conservatory.
reviewed
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D
Monterey's Fish House
Ten bucks says you're the only non-local in the joint. Italian-Japanese chef David DiGirolamo prepares spanking-fresh seafood with the occasional Asian twist, watched over by photos of his Sicilian fishermen ancestors. Though reservations are next to required, Hawaiian shirts seem to be de rigueur for gentlemen. Try the barbecued oysters or, for those stout of heart, the large Mexican squid steak.
reviewed
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Attic
For big, crunchy organic salads, homemade soups, vegan dishes, and a huge menu of teas, head to this order-at-the-counter cafe-cum-gallery and performance space. There are meat dishes too, but the emphasis is on veggies. Save room for the vegan shortbread cookies, which defy the law that says vegan equals tasteless.
reviewed
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Forge in the Forest
Many of the employees at the Forge are also the owners through a trust. They bring an enthusiasm to this fun place that's infectious. Dine on the well-heated and flower-bordered patio or on an antique table inside. The huge menu features great sandwiches, steaks and pizzas. The bar is a fine place for a drink.
reviewed
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Casanova
From the time you step past the home grown lavender and into this cottage until you get the bill, you'll know you are someplace special. The food and service is all high end and the seasonal menu blends French and California cuisines. Most ingredients are organic and sourced locally.
reviewed
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Passionfish
Passionfish is one of the finest fish restaurants in the region. Fresh, sustainable seafood is served in any number of inventive ways; there are also slow-cooked meats and locally grown vegetables. Owner Ted Walther has built up a passionate following that extends well beyond PG.
reviewed
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Jack London's
In a walkway off Dolores St, Jack London's serves hot food until midnight. A Carmel mainstay since 1973, it pairs upscale pub grub (burgers, ribs) with a selection of microbrews and potent mixed drinks. With a cozy fireplace, the bar is a good place for just a drink.
reviewed
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Lillian’s Italian Kitchen
Nothing-fancy Lillian’s serves terrific homemade American-Italian dishes, including a knockout ‘Sunday gravy’ – a slow-cooked, tomato-based meat sauce – using an old family recipe. Great paninis at lunch. No reservations.
reviewed
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E
Montrio Bistro
In a 1910 firehouse, the tables of this sophisticated-looking restaurant are covered in butcher paper with crayons for kids. The New American cooking often features local, organic ingredients. Tapas-sized tasting dishes and local wine list show flair.
reviewed
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Ristorante Avanti
Mom-and-pop Avanti’s Cal-Italian menu features earthy pasta dishes; chicken cacciatore is the specialty, but look for seasonal knockout specials that use local produce. Casual vibe, good wines. Families welcome. Make reservations.
reviewed
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O'Mei
It's pricey for Chinese, but everything is fresh and preparations are spot-on. The crisp-fried sweet potatoes and red-oil dumplings both merit a special trip - some drive all the way from San Francisco for them. Make reservations.
reviewed
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Tillie Gort
This veteran goes back to the '60s and still is true to its hippie roots. There are lots of vegetarian items on a menu with global inspiration. Portions are hearty and the desserts are rather decadent. It's close to the aquarium.
reviewed
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F
Lulu Carpenter's
If you wear your collar up and like to spread out with the Sunday Times, you'll dig this clean-hands café with brick walls and casement windows. There's outdoor seating on Pacific Ave or in the garden. Free wi-fi.
reviewed
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G
Soif
Part wine shop, part wine bar and restaurant, Soif draws food-savvy bon vivants for a heady selection of 50 unusual wines by the glass, designed to pair with a sophisticated, seasonally driven, Euro-Cal small-plates menu.
reviewed
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H
Engfer Pizza Works
Detour to find this old factory, where wood-fired oven pizzas are made from scratch with love - the no-name specialty is almost like a giant salad on roasted bread. Play ping-pong and sip draft microbrews while you wait.
reviewed
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Passionfish
Here it is. You found it. A perfect, chef-owned seafood restaurant where the sustainable fish is dock-fresh, every preparation divine and the wine list more than affordable. Reservations are recommended.
reviewed
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I
Gabriella Cafe
Intimate and romantic, with tiny tables and twinkling lights, Gabriella is the perfect date spot, with a charming outdoor garden for a long, lingering lunch. Dinner could be better for the price.
reviewed
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J
Zoccoli's
An old-style Italian deli with outdoor seating, Zocolli's makes great sandwiches and picnic fixins. Note: If you've a kitchen, get the homemade meatballs and make spaghetti for dinner. Delicious.
reviewed
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Saturn Cafe
A Santa Cruz classic, the late-night Saturn Cafe’s decor is an evolving pop-culture carnival. The menu is upmarket diner, with good salads and sandwiches and lots for vegetarians.
reviewed
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Caffé Cardinale
This spot gets rave reviews for its rich coffee (roasted on the premises), but also does tasty baked goods, soups and panini sandwiches. It's tucked away in an alley off Ocean Ave.
reviewed
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Tacos Moreno
Who cares how long the line is, especially at lunchtime? You're guaranteed to find taqueria heaven here - from pork, chicken and beef soft tacos to supremely stuffed burritos.
reviewed
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K
El Palomar
Always-packed El Palomar serves tasty Mexican staples – try the ceviches – and good margaritas. The tortillas are made fresh in the covered courtyard.
reviewed
