Monterey Bay Area Dining Guide

CAPITOLA

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.

CARMEL

Anton & Michel
in the Court of Fountains
Mission between Ocean & 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.

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, wine, and Cocktails available. Oyster Bar open daily 11 a.m. Seafood Grill open 5:30 p.m. daily.

The Forge in the Forest
Southwest corner of Fifth & Junipero, Carmel
(831) 624-2233
This landmark Carmel 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.

The Grill on Ocean Avenue
Ocean 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.

PortaBella
Ocean 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 5-10 p.m. Cocktails from 11 a.m. to midnight. Year-round, heated garden patio dining (dogs and their owners welcome).

The Village Corner
Sixth at Dolores, Carmel
(831) 624-3588
The casual yet sophisticated atmosphere is what has attracted locals and vacationers to this charming bistro for more than 50 years. Nestled in the heart of Carmel, you will enjoy dining indoors or on the heated garden patio, daytime or evening. The minute you walk through the door, you will be treated with the gracious hospitality that has been the mainstay of this quaint Carmel landmark. The bill of fare features a wide array California cuisine choices as well as daily specials. Well-behaved dogs always welcome. Open at 7 a.m. for breakfast, 11 a.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. for dinner.

MONTEREY

Café Fina
47 Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey
(831) 372-5200
When dining on Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf, look for Café Fina to provide you with the freshest seafood around. Whether it is salmon or halibut barbecued over the mesquite grill or housemade crab ravioli with pesto cream, you will be quick to discover one of Monterey’s local favorites. Owner Dominic Mercurio invites you to try either of these dishes for lunch or dinner, or choose from the many veal, beef, chicken, or pasta dishes that make Café Fina a wonderful dining experience. The spectacular waterfront view is just icing on the cake!

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 of 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.

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 world-class 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
Old Fisherman’s Grotto is one of Monterey’s must-visit restaurants. This Fisherman’s Wharf “institution” is owned and operated by Chris Shake, son of Sabu Shake, Sr. who founded the restaurant 56 years ago. Like his father before him, Chris thrives on meeting and greeting his guests. He can most often be found at the front door of his restaurant, extending a warm welcome and offering delicious sample of his famous Clam Chowder to all who pass by. By carrying on in his father’s footsteps, Chris has made Old Fisherman’s Grotto on of the top ten seafood restaurants in Monterey County as confirmed by the Monterey County Herald’s GO magazine.

The 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 38 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.

PACIFIC GROVE

Fandango
223 17th St., Pacific Grove
(831) 372-3456
In the warmth of a Mediterranean setting, enjoy the spirited, flavorful foods of European, country-style cuisine. Feast on a variety of specialties from the open grills such as fresh seafood, rack of lamb, and steaks. Or, choose from regional dishes, which include pastas, paella, and couscous. More than 1,200 wines grace the awardwinning wine list, all at fair prices. Full bar service and decadent desserts enhance the food and fun — taste a tradition. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Fandango cookbooks are available. Private parties for groups of 10 to 50.