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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Monterey

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17 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Rosine's Restaurant restaurant
1. Rosine's Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(641)
Price: Moderate
• American • Monterey
Booked 45 times today
Rosine's Restaurant, a family-owned local gem, has been turning traditional American comfort food into an art form for over 43 years. Known for their award-winning house-made desserts, it's a favorite among locals for its 'Best Comfort Food', 'Best Family Restaurant' and 'Best Desserts'. With a wide variety of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch options, they cater to every palate. One reviewer noted, 'The menu is quite impressive in length. The service was prompt. The food was well presented and the portions were generous.' Another said, 'Reservation a MUST! This restaurant is on the main road through downtown Monterey so it has a lot of food-traffic... so you'll feel awesome when you are seated immediately with your reservation.' So, whether you're in the mood for Eggs Benedicts, Chicken Parmesan, or a juicy Beef Minestrone soup, Rosine's Restaurant is worth the drive!
A photo of Tarpy's Roadhouse restaurant
2. Tarpy's Roadhouse
4.7
Exceptional(3656)
Price: Moderate
• American • Monterey
Booked 34 times today
Relax in this 1917 Roadhouse and enjoy creative, Five Star American Country Cuisine. The wood-burning grill provides wonderful flavors for the freshest seafood and prime steaks. Set on five landscaped acres, the patios and extensive gardens provide a refreshing backdrop for hearty sandwiches, vegetarian entrees and tempting salads. Reservations are recommended.We are limited to outdoor seating. Please wear warm clothes for dinner. Not all tables have heat. All tables of 4 we allow 1 hour 30 minutes. Parties of 6 or more 2 hours. If you need more time please let us know. We require credit cards for parties over 6. All guests must wear a mask while entering the restaurant. You may take it off once seated. If your late for your reservation, please call we allow 15 minute grace period. Tarpy's also offers affordable off-site catering drop offs
A photo of The Whaling Station Steakhouse restaurant
3. The Whaling Station Steakhouse
4.6
Exceptional(2475)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Monterey
Booked 21 times today
The internationally acclaimed Whaling Station Steakhouse, perched just above Steinbeck’s Cannery Row has been Monterey County’s #1 Steak House for over 50 years, The Whaling Station takes the term “Steakhouse” seriously...Select your USDA Prime cut of the USA’s finest beef from a silver tray or enjoy our slow-roasted USDA Prime, Prime Rib. An award-winning wine list and full spirits bar compliment your dining experience. Serving Dinner and cocktails from 4:30pm daily. The Bar at The Whaling Station Steakhouse has its own menu and its own local following, with drink specials and lively conversation served nightly. Parking in our private lot. A private, 50-seat banquet room is also available.
A photo of Dametra Cafe restaurant
4. Dametra Cafe
4.7
Exceptional(288)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Carmel
Booked 17 times today
Dametra Cafe is a gem in Carmel, offering high-quality Mediterranean dishes in a relaxed Greek coastal setting. Customers rave about the delicious food and engaging atmosphere, mentioning the prompt service and friendly staff. Even after the meal, the experience doesn't end, as the restaurant features live music. Despite being a bit of a drive, customers find it worth it, revisiting Dametra Cafe every time they're in the area.
A photo of Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar - Pacific Grove restaurant
5. Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar - Pacific Grove
4.9
Exceptional(1386)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Pacific Grove
Booked 26 times today
We are currently open for dine-in and outdoor heated sidewalk/patio.We are always available for curbside pickup.Welcome to Mezzaluna Pasteria and Mozzarella Bar. Chef Soerke and Amy invite you in to enjoy daily house made Pasta, Mozzarella and Gelato. We offer a full bar with specialty cocktails. Chef’s Specialties includeBuccatini Al’AmatricianaLinguini alla VongoleChicken Sausage LasagneSpaghetti CarbonaraGrilled Octopus Lamb Meatballs House-made CharcuterieGnocchi with Gorgonzola Dolce Sauce & Black Truffle OilLittle Gem Caesar Salad with Parmigiano Reggiano Raviloi di Manzo Pate di Anatra
A photo of PortaBella Restaurant restaurant
6. PortaBella Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1742)
Price: Expensive
• French • Carmel
Booked 52 times today
Our cuisine features beautiful specialties from France, Italy and Spain. The dishes are rich in color and flavor.PortaBella is picturesque: awarded First Prize for Beautiful Flowerscaping from the Carmel Garden Club.The ambience is stylish and romantic, the setting historic
A photo of The Lantern Room - Monterey Beach Hotel restaurant
7. The Lantern Room - Monterey Beach Hotel
4.2
Awesome(42)
Price: Expensive
• American • Monterey
Booked 13 times today
Nestled right on the Monterey State Beach, The Lantern Room offers a dining experience like no other, with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and a menu inspired by the rich offerings of Monterey County. Our dishes celebrate the flavors of the region, each crafted with ingredient sourced from local vendors, ensuring that every bite supports our vibrant community. Complement your meal with a selection of wines and beers exclusively from Monterey County, all while enjoying the calm, nautical ambiance that perfectly frames the ocean’s horizon. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil evening or a memorable meal with a view, The Lantern Room invites you to savor the best of the coast!
A photo of Fishwife - Pacific Grove restaurant
8. Fishwife - Pacific Grove
4.3
Awesome(907)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Pacific Grove
Booked 17 times today
Fishwife offers a menu of award-winning American cuisine with a Caribbean accent since 1986. With many daily specials, fresh Seafood as well as homemade pastas and dishes for children, there is something for everyone. Daily specials spotlight fresh catch and seasonal fish. Desserts are homemade as well. The atmosphere is casual with a FULL BAR and friendly service, making it a great place to visit with groups and family. Just a short walk from Asilomar Beach and Conference Center. Some of the most popular dishes are Clam chowder, Calamari, Alfredo Combo, Green Lip Mussels, Barramundi and famous homemade Key lime pie. You can also enjoy surf and turf or gluten-free options like the vegetarian bowl.
A photo of Enzo Ristorante Italiano restaurant
9. Enzo Ristorante Italiano
4.2
Awesome(461)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carmel
Booked 7 times today
If a Western Mediterranean version of life exists, you will find it nestled between Ocean ave and Seventh st on San Carlos Street in Carmel-by-the-Sea. The European style village nestled above a picturesque white sandy beach is the perfect backdrop to "ENZO". At Enzo, you will be beckoned by the rustically charming patios surrounded by draping bougainvillea on a sundrenched day or the cozy and simplistic interior warmed by the fireplace when the cool fog blankets the coast.Calabria is a southern region in Italy where the owner, Enzo, comes from. Calabria is a place where life is still slow. It's the beauty, the passion, the family, the love...this is what you will find at Enzo...simplicity, love, comfort, family!
A photo of Patisserie Boissiere Restaurant restaurant
10. Patisserie Boissiere Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(455)
Price: Moderate
• French • Carmel
Booked 14 times today
Patisserie Boissiere Restaurant is a gem in Carmel-by-the-Sea, with its unique European chateau setting and French country food. It's a favorite for its delicious food, excellent service, and cozy ambiance. Reviewers rave about the 'exceptional dishes', 'wonderful homey ambiance', and 'first class' wine list. Many have returned and plan to again, citing the restaurant's 'welcoming and warm' setting, 'friendly, efficient' service, and 'true jewel' status in Carmel. It's a place that 'brings back memories of the many wonderful small, family owned restaurants you find in France.'

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Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Monterey

Discover a culinary treasure trove along the scenic California Central Coast in Monterey and Carmel, where dining spots are definitely "worth the drive." These restaurants cater to a range of tastes, offering everything from fresh, sustainable seafood to traditional American comfort food, all enhanced by local ingredients and creative culinary flair. The dining scene here is characterized by its commitment to quality and the unique blend of casual elegance, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Each location not only promises delicious meals but also enriches your dining experience with exceptional service, breathtaking coastal views, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes the journey worthwhile. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly spot, a romantic getaway, or a sustainable seafood feast, these establishments ensure a memorable meal that’s worth the drive. Enjoy the blend of culinary excellence and spectacular natural beauty in Monterey and Carmel, where every meal is not just food, but an experience.

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