Top Rated Restaurants en Cafés in Monterey

With dishes like Dumb Luck Coconut Shrimp and Lt. Dan's Drunken Shrimp, and specialty drinks like the Lava Flow and the Bayou Surprise, this shrimp restaurant in Cannery Row attracts tourists from all over, as well shrimp-lovin' locals. The place is usually packed and noisy, making for a great night out amidst the lights. The place has its own line of hats, shirts and other souvenirs. You will never find a wider variety of shrimp dishes anywhere else, and the service is excellent.

This restaurant was voted the best by Adventures in Dining Magazine's readers' poll and it offers a delicious variety of Central California coastal cuisine using fresh, local produce. Locals haunt the place. The selection of wines is designed to perfectly complement the dishes. You can eat inside, surrounded by polished wood surfaces, or on the patio. It is a great bet for a reception or an intimate dinner. The service is warm and friendly.

This market and deli is popular among the armed forces residents of Monterey due to its location to the base. Known for its massive sandwiches, Compagno's tasty creations are big enough for two meals! A deli case with lighter fare is also available, with salads, and even sinful decadent sweets like chocolate cake. Their refreshments are just as delicious with artisan brand names and craft brews available.

First Awakenings is aptly named, it's a real eye opener and not just with the great breakfast they serve but with the bright surroundings and the friendly staff serving you. The breakfast served here is rave-worthy delicious. Whether it's a waffle, blueberry pancakes, omelets, burritos, crepes, hash browns or just a plain old fruit bowl, you'll sure to be satisfied. If you're in the city, do not miss a chance to have a hearty breakfast here. First Awakenings is also dog friendly. Although be warned, this breakfast house is so famous you can almost always expect to find a crowd.

A throwback to classic tiki restaurants and bars found in California in the 50s and 60s, this island themed establishment is anything but drab and boring. A bamboo lined bar, large colorful tropical flowers, tiki wooden sculptures and more make you feel like you've been transported to an island watering hole. The menu offers a huge selection of vegetarian options like spicy tofu tacos, salads, lemon sauce pot stickers, veggie burgers and more. Carnivorous options like ahi poke, choice of preparation and fresh fish, crab curry, Jamaican jerk chicken and barbecue ribs are also on offer. Don't forget to try one of their themed cocktails, locals rave about the Hula's Hurricane.

Get a taste of France thanks to this specialty restaurant in Monterey. Located at Old Fisherman's Wharf, Crepes of Brittany offers sweet crepes and galettes traditional to Brittany region of France. This cozy, waterside restaurant is great for a quick meal with friends and family, with its laid-back atmosphere and fine views of the neighboring docks. Try their homemade caramel sauce and add a side of vanilla bean ice cream and you've got yourself a decadent treat! Be sure to take notice of the daily specials and discounts on the blackboard; they never fail to surprise.