Food &
Drink
Food &
Drink
Culinary Creations In
Monterey County
An abundance of locally procured ingredients and a year-round growing season set the stage for truly unforgettable dining experience in Monterey County. And wherever you find amazing food, you're bound to find great wine here. The viticulture in the area is world-renowned and makes every meal an opportunity to challenge even the most refined olfactory skills and palates. Bon appetit!
Restaurants
The best restaurants in Monterey County celebrate and spotlight the local bounty from land and sea. Only in Monterey County can food enthusiasts zip down the Big Sur coastline to have breakfast nestled beneath the redwoods and then have fresh local sanddabs for lunch while watching sea otters play below. Savor the fresh and hyper-local produce straight from the fields of the Salinas Valley, take your pick of diverse cuisines in the city of Marina and delight in French cuisine at eateries all over Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Michelin-Rated Restaurants
The highly regarded MICHELIN Guide highlights outstanding accommodations distinct for their unique hospitality concept, distinctive character, warm welcome and extremely high level of service. The inaugural selection of hotels awarded MICHELIN Keys to Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur (3 Keys), Alila Ventana Big Sur in Big Sur (2 Keys) and Bernardus Lodge & Spa in Carmel Valley (2 Keys). Monterey County also boasts exceptional MICHELIN Guide Recognized Restaurants to indulge the palate.
Aubergine
With two Michelin stars, Aubergine, located at L’Auberge Carmel in Carmel-by-the-Sea, is renowned for its ingredient-driven, seasonally inspired cuisine. Under the expert leadership of Executive Chef Justin Cogley, a Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef, and Executive Pastry Chef Ron Mendoza, Aubergine showcases dishes that blend exceptional technique with a focus on texture and flavor. The nightly eight-course tasting menu celebrates local and global ingredients, complemented by Mendoza’s masterful desserts. An extensive 2,500-bottle wine cellar features exceptional selections, particularly from Monterey County and France, with optional pairings available.
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farmers markets
Earning the name "Salad Bowl of the World," it's no surprise that Monterey County is home to many farmers markets of varying sizes and specialties 7-days a week. In addition to fresh local produce, many markets have food booths, food trucks and live music.
Explore Moreocean view restaurants
Monterey, California, is known for its breathtaking ocean views paired with exceptional dining experiences. From iconic spots like Schooners Monterey and Coastal Kitchen at the Monterey Plaza Hotel to the C Restaurant and Bar at The InterContinental Clement, the area is filled with restaurants serving sustainable seafood and farm-to-table dishes. Big Sur’s Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn and Nepenthe offer stunning coastal scenery, while places like Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette and the Beach House Restaurant at Lovers Point provide memorable dining with a view. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, casual eats, or drinks at a scenic wine bar, Monterey’s food scene promises a feast for all the senses.
Old Fisherman's Wharf
Looking for Monterey classics like clam chowder, calamari and sand dabs served with a side of seaside sanctuary? Look no further than the several eateries on Old Fisherman's Wharf. Here you will find icons like Abalonetti Bar and Grill, Café Fina, Crabby Jim's, Domenico's, Old Fisherman's Grotto and Paluca Trattoria.
Explore MoreWineries & Tasting Rooms
Monterey County is one of the largest wine growing and producing regions in California, made famous by unique microclimates and diverse growing conditions that produce 32 varietals. The secret to Monterey’s viticultural success is the “Blue Grand Canyon.” The cold, deep waters of Monterey Bay bring fog and moderate temperatures throughout the growing season and infuse every drop of Monterey County’s wine with an impressive style and structure.
Joyce Wine Co.
At Joyce Vineyards the main focus is to produce honest, transparent wine that represents a time and place. Each vintage will be unique, given the growing conditions that season, but one thing that will remain constant is a dedication in the cellar to produce honest wine that showcases the natural tension and energy which comes from Monterey’s coastal climate. Their tasting room in Carmel-by-the-Sea is open 7 days a week.
Explore MoreThe Beer Scene
Beyond visits to world-class wineries, discover even more to sip and savor in Monterey County, a rising star on the craft beer scene. Take home growlers and crowlers of your new favorite cold ones after exploring the area’s hottest breweries.
FILTER YOUR SEARCH
Village Corner Restaurant
Jamba
Spotted Duck Restaurant
Googie Grill
Hestia
El Nopalito
Sweet Elena's Bakery and Cafe
Dametra Cafe
Edwin's Carmel
Stationæry
Arigato Sushi
Need some inspo?
Looking for travel inspiration? Our blog is packed with insider tips, destination guides and local stories to help you make the most of your Monterey adventure.
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