Monterey Bay Dining Guide

A selection of some of GuestLife’s favorite restaurants on the Monterey Peninsula.

Anton & Michel
Court of Fountains, Mission St. between Ocean Ave. & Seventh, Carmel.
(831) 624-2406
This Carmel culinary landmark is considered the Peninsula’s most beautiful and romantic restaurant — a hallmark blend of Old World elegance and modern charm. The distinctive and artistic flair of creative continental cuisine is guided by Chef Mark Simpson, who combines traditional fare with lighter and more flavorful sauces. There is graciousness in this service-intensive establishment and a genuine desire to please, along with an award-winning wine list, making Anton & Michel “probably the best dining experience in downtown Carmel.” (Wine Spectator). Private parties and wedding receptions are a specialty. Reservations suggested.

The Chart House
444 Cannery Row, Monterey
(831) 372-3362
Since 1961, The Chart House has been a classic destination for diners, whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual dinner. Known for breathtaking views of Monterey Bay, as well as exceptional service, the Chart House will make any dining experience memorable. The boundless menu features only the freshest fish available, as well as choice beef dishes that will satisfy the cravings of any palate. The restaurant offers an array of divine desserts, including the famous Lava Cake — a decadent chocolate soufflé that is the perfect finish to any meal.

The Fish Hopper
700 Cannery Row, Monterey
(831) 372-8543
Experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean combined with world-class dining on Cannery Row within walking distance to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and fine shops. The Fish Hopper, once an original sardine cannery building, offers spectacular panoramic views of the beautiful Monterey Bay from every table and specializes in fresh seafood, steaks, pastas and live shellfish. We deal directly with the fishermen, buying through our own fish market. While enjoying a delicious meal, watch frolicking sea otters at play and even the occasional whale.

Flaherty’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill
Sixth between San Carlos & Dolores, Carmel
(831) 624-0311 (Oyster Bar), (831) 625-1500 (Seafood Grill)
Two restaurants under one roof, Flaherty’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill create Carmel’s seafood emporium. Named among California’s 10 best fresh-catch seafood restaurants by the San Jose Mercury News, Flaherty’s offers a feast of fresh regional dishes, specialty dishes, shellfish, prawns, homemade chowders, cioppino, pasta and meats. Beer and wine. Oyster Bar open daily 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Seafood Grill open 5:30-10 p.m. daily.

The Forge in the Forest
Southwest corner of Fifth & Junipero, Carmel
(831) 624-2233
This employee-owned and -operated restaurant has been voted “Best Outdoor Dining” every year since 1992! The Forge’s award-winning garden patios are nestled among the oak and pine trees of downtown Carmel and made comfortable year-round with fireplaces, heaters and large patio umbrellas. Prefer to sit inside? Choose from the casual copper-walled Forge Saloon with its hand-carved mahogany back bar and blacksmith fire pit or the more formal feel of the Oak Tree Room. Full bar, lunch and dinner seven days a week, plus Sunday Brunch.

Gayle’s Bakery & Rosticceria
504 Bay Ave., Capitola
(831) 462-1200
More than 1,500 locals a day can’t be wrong. Pastas, oak-roasted chicken sandwiches, soups, specialty salads, award-winning breads, pastries and cakes, all made from scratch daily, using the finest ingredients. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between. Wine, beer and full espresso bar. Dine in the café, on the heated patio or take your treats to go for a picnic at the beach or in your hotel room. Open seven days a week, 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., including most holidays.

The Grill on Ocean Avenue
Ocean Ave. between Dolores & Lincoln, Carmel
(831) 624-2569
Bathed in a comforting blend of light, tapestry, mirrors, fire and warm oak, The Grill offers an atmosphere that is both stylish and relaxed but not trendy. The cuisine has been described as “lyrical, clearly Californian in its freshness and lightness — Asian in its virtuosity.” A generous, well-balanced wine list — with an emphasis on Monterey County wines, a full bar and an attentive staff are the elements that make The Grill the locals’ choice for lunch or dinner. Reservations suggested. 

Hog’s Breath Inn
San Carlos between Fifth & Sixth, Carmel
(831) 625-1044
The Hog’s Breath Inn, one of Carmel’s oldest dining institutions, has opened its doors once again. Originally owned by Carmel’s most famous resident, Clint Eastwood, the Hog’s Breath Inn is now owned and operated by successful restaurateur Kaiser Morcus. For years, locals and tourists alike have gathered at the Hog’s Breath to meet friends for a quick drink or a memorable dinner and to enjoy the warm, intimate setting. Offering an array of menu options — seafood, steak and pasta — the Hog’s Breath Inn assures everyone an exceptional dining experience.

Isabella’s On The Wharf
60 Fisherman’s Wharf #1, Monterey
(831) 375-3956
There are many things worth your attention in Monterey, and Isabella’s should be elevated to the top of the list. Another of Tene Shake’s Signature restaurants, the worldclass chefs prepare an extensive selection of fresh fish, all in keeping with the Seafood Watch Program. The delectable cuisine is prepared with the highest standards of culinary excellence in mind, and the personalized service of the staff is inspired by a spectacular view of Monterey Bay. And, at the end of your meal, enjoy an incredible array of desserts you would never attempt to create at home.

Old Fisherman’s Grotto
39 Old Fisherman’s Wharf #1, Monterey
(831) 375-4604
Since the very beginning, the Shake family has dedicated itself to preparing and serving only the finest cuisine, specializing in fresh seafood and live shellfish, as well as steaks and pastas. We deal directly with the fishermen, buying through our own fish market, Peninsula Fish & Oyster Bar. You will experience fabulous food, excellent service and ocean-view dining. We believe you can actually taste why a half-century of family tradition and commitment to excellence have earned Old Fisherman’s Grotto a worldwide reputation for quality dining.

Peninsula Restaurant
Hyatt Regency Monterey, 1 Old Golf Course Rd., Monterey
(831) 372-1234
Inspired by local growers, Peninsula Restaurant features the finest California cuisine, spectacular views and a splendid dining experience. If you’re looking for a casual breakfast, a scrumptious lunch or leisurely dinner, make the Peninsula Restaurant your choice for panoramic golf views, sizzling steaks, pasta, freshly baked breads and the finest local seafood, all prepared to perfection, in addition to our large selection of award winning highbrand and boutique wines from Monterey County. Enjoy desserts and after-dinner drinks seated around a fire in a gazebo overlooking the 17th green of the Pebble Beach Company’s Del Monte Golf Course.

Porta Bella
Ocean Ave. between Lincoln & Monte Verde, Carmel
(831) 624-4395
The cuisine of the Mediterranean sun countries, rich in color and flavor, delights the palates of diners in this romantic, quintessential Carmel restaurant. From the arched ceilings in the dining rooms to the enchanting indoor courtyard, the exceptional food, wine and ambiance generate a lively atmosphere. Entrées, divided between the land and the sea, are served with locally grown, organic produce. Open daily for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. Cocktails from 11 a.m. to midnight. Year-round, heated garden patio dining (dogs and their owners welcome).

Sardine Factory
701 Wave St. (Cannery Row), Monterey
(831) 373-3775
Your senses come alive in this Cannery Row landmark restaurant. An icon of fine dining for more than 37 years, the distinctive ambiance and world-class service assure that every guest feels like a VIP. From the glass-domed Conservatory to the fun and flexible Lounge, there is a perfect setting for every occasion. The exquisite cuisine includes delicious preparations of the freshest seafood and USDA Prime meats, all complemented by a wine list that has been awarded the Wine Spectator Grand Award every year since 1982. Private events in the Wine Cellar are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Hours: 5-10:30 p.m. Mon.-Thurs., 5-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 5-10 p.m. Sun.