Breakfast in Monterey is a great way to start your day before you set off to explore the beautiful and exciting things to do in Monterey, California! One of the most amazing things about this idyllic and picturesque central coast California town is its variety. And luckily for us breakfast lovers, that variety carries over to the breakfast restaurants here!

You can find classic American diner style breakfast, coastal breakfast, international dishes, later breakfast and brunch, as well as vegan breakfast in Monterey. What ever you are looking for, sit back and relax, because Monterey has you covered!

Which of these extraordinary breakfast places in Monterey will you be visiting first?

25 Extraordinary Places For Breakfast in Monterey

Old Monterey Cafe

For a mind blowing Monterey Bay breakfast, you can head to the Old Monterey Cafe on Alvarado Street. Here you can get made-to-order breakfast dishes served in a diner-like dining room. Classic American diner plates are produced from the kitchen at Old Monterey Cafe.

Plates loaded with sausage, burritos, hash browns, pancakes, Eggs Benedict, toast, eggs, and more cover the tables of this incredible brunch joint in Monterey. The chill vibe and amazing menu allowed Old Monterey Cafe to be voted Monterey County’s best breakfast, lunch, and java.

The menu at Old Monterey Cafe is filled with egg scrambles like the Tahoe Scrambler which comes with hickory smoked ham, onion, pepper, and cheese, French Toast like the Cinnamon Raison Swirl French Toast, pancake stacks like the Apple Compote Pancakes, Eggs Benedict like the Turkey Avocado Benedict, and big crispy Belgian Waffles.

Old Monterey Cafe is among the top restaurants in Monterey, so it’s no surprise that you can find some of the best breakfast in Monterey here as well!

Black Bear Diner Monterey

Biscuits, omelets, and pancakes, oh my! The Black Bear Diner is by and large one of the top places to get breakfast in Monterey. They have everything from omelettes and French Toast to egg combo meals and pancake stacks.

Black Bear Diner is among the top breakfast spots in Monterey because they serve breakfast all day long! However, if you are visiting a little later in the day and are wanting something more lunch-esque, you can sink your teeth into one of their specialty burgers or sandwiches at brunch time.

One of the best things about eating here is the dessert menu. They have dreamy pies and cakes for you to indulge in after your breakfast or brunch. They have California cheesecake, apple cobbler, chocolate cream pie, five layer chocolate cake, and banana cream pie, just to name a few!

Parker-Lusseau Pastries

Parker-Lusseau Pastries is among the top bakeries in Monterey. If you are looking for tasty baked goods in a cute coastal bakery, Parker-Lusseau is the place to be! It is easily planted on the list of top breakfast places in Monterey as well as it is in a perfect location in the downtown area for a sweet breakfast and a cup of coffee in the morning.

It is inside an old white building with the word Patisserie painted on the side of the wall. And there’s a lovely little patio where you can sit outside and enjoy your coffee and pastries while you people-watch and enjoy the Monterey weather.

When visiting Parker-Lusseau Pastries, you can choose from all of the coffeehouse classics like espresso, latte, hot chocolate, Americano, etc. But, the real star of the show here is the mind-blowing pastries and lunch items that they serve here.

The macarons, eclairs, croissants, fruit tarts, sandwiches and galettes are amazing here. Grabbing a bite to eat at one of the best places for breakfast in Monterey is a great way to start your day before exploring the city.

Wave Street Cafe

Calling everyone who is looking for breakfast in Monterey on Cannery Row!

An iconic place for breakfast on Cannery Row is the Wave Street Cafe. New American breakfast dishes are served here at Wave Street Cafe in the charming dining room that is designed in a European-bistro style, complete with an outdoor patio.

The cute building, design, and dining spaces make a visit here super desirable. Add onto that the incredible menu options and you will find yourself not wanting to leave the Wave Street Cafe as it is one of the top Monterey breakfast spots!

On the All-Day Menu at Wave Street Cafe is are classic breakfast favorites like oatmeal, breakfast burritos, eggs Benedict, egg scrambles, omelets, pancakes, and French Toast.

The classics are taken to the next level at this breakfast joint in Monterey. You can choose from a variety of omelets like The Denver, Garden Fresh, Bay Shrimp and Spinach, The Greek, or The Vegan omelet. Eggs Benedict are serves in unique ways as well. You can get a Norwegian, Irish, Vegetarian, Hawaiian, or Garden Eggs Benedict.

L’aubette Belgian Bakery

When it comes to Sunday breakfast places in Monterey, it doesn’t get much better than this Belgian bakeruy. L’Aubette is a cute little bakery near Cannery Row. This bakery is only open on Sundays and provides guests with outstanding Belgian waffles.

The owner of L’Aubette is Belgian and wants to share his love of the Belgian cuisine that he grew up with with the people of Monterey. The Belgian-born creator of L’Aubette is passionate about what they are doing in Monterey and it shows through their waffles.

One taste of these Belgian waffles and it will be easy to see what makes L’Aubette one of the top places to get breakfast in Monterey. They are proudly made with Belgian sugar, Mexican vanilla, and local ingredients.

They offer classic, chocolate, blueberry with lemon glaze, churro flavor, and more. The flavors are rotating so you can get something different every time you visit.

The laid-back nature of this small bakery, the vibe, and the quality of the waffles sold here are unmatched.

Googie Grill

Ready for a good breakfast in Monterey CA. Well, the Googie Grill is just a short 5-10 minute drive from Monterey in Seaside, CA and is well worth the drive! The vibes here are very 1950s, complete with vintage fixtures and fun paint colors.

You can start your breakfast here by indulging in a delectable griddle order. Perhaps the Haileys Comet Combo from the griddle will be just what you need to order to have your mind blown by the Googie Grill! It comes with eggs, French Toast or Pancakes, your choice of bacon, sausage or ham, and either Googie potatoes or hash browns for a classic spread of American breakfast must-haves.

Other awesome options here at the Googie Grill include Brioche French Toast, Belgian waffles, eggs, omelets, and scarmbles. Pair your breakfast with something from the espresso, coffee, and tea bar and you are good to go!

Red House Cafe

Let’s take another baby step from Monterey and look at the Red House Cafe. Just five minutes from Monterey, this cafe offers excellent breakfast in Pacific Grove. Red House graces visitors with seasonal American classics with European twists and influence along with tea and pastries for a fabulous breakfast line up.

The meals here are easily placed on the pedestal for best breakfast in Monterey County. They have everything from spectacular breakfast sandwiches, Eggs Benedict, and breakfast trifles to Nutella paninis, smoked salmon potato pancakes, and the full country breakfast which comes with egg, potatoes, bacon or sausage, and more.

If you get a late start to your day, you can still had to Red House Cafe as they have a great brunch menu as well!

After your breakfast or brunch, you should set off on foot to explore Pacific Grove. Although it is just a few minutes away from the Monterey Bay Aquarium, it has a totally different vibe to it. You can enjoy the architecture, visit the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, or check out Pavel’s Backerei while you are in the area.

Crepes of Brittany

Breakfast on the Monterey Bay is simply mind-blowing when you visit Crepes of Brittany on Alvarado Street. This creperie is open in the mornings and afternoons and they offer dine-in and takeaway options at this cute waterside location.

The creperie will serve you either sweet or savory crepes, depending on your mood! [No matter which you choose, you will find some of the best crepes in Monterey here!]On the sweet menu there are lemon sugar crepes, peach melba crepes, blueberry cream cheese crepes, and Nutella crepes.

If you want something more savory, you can order a ham or turkey crepe, an imported brie and caramelized onion crepe, or a wild smoked salmon crepe. Onion soup, sandwiches, and tuna salad are also on the menu along with a large selection of coffee and some alcoholic beverages.

Crepes of Brittanys is in a great location in town that is within walking distance of two of the best beaches in Monterey, Del Monte Beach and San Carlos Beach. So, if you find yourself out for some of the best breakfast in Monterey at this creperie, consider checking out some of the fun sights and attractions in the area.

Loulou’s Griddle in The Middle

Does Loulou’s sound familiar? If you have watch The Food Network then it probably does sound familiar! This incredible coastal diner was on Diners Drive Ins and Divers and should always been in discussion about the best breakfast Monterey.

Loulou’s Griddle in The Middle is a family-friendly spot for breakfast on Monterey Wharf. It is located on the Municipal Wharf which is right next to the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. If you are just passing through and looking for some of the best free things to do in Monterey, The Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-visit!

Loulou’s Griddle In The Middle has some of the very best breakfasts in Monterey. The restaurant claims that they have “good eats and crazy waitresses!” This American restaurant serves up hearty incredible breakfast fare. Omelets, pancakes, French Toast, oatmeal, and classic American breakfast spreads can be found at Loulou’s.

The coolest things to order off the breakfast menu are the pancakes because they are massive and can be filled with your favorite fruits and chocolate chips. For more savory lunch-type meals, you can order salads, soups, burgers and sandwiches, and of course, fresh seafood. Like most restaurants on the water in Monterey, they also serve incredible clam chowder later in the day as well.

Paris Bakery Cafe

The Paris Bakery is a fantastic place for breakfast in Monterey. This is because they have way more than just breakfast options like croissants, quiche, breakfast sandwiches, and muffins here. You’ll also find chocolate cakes, large fruit cakes, fruit galettes, and other pastries like flaky turnovers, fruity danishes, sugary cookies, and classic cupcakes.

Paris Bakery Monterey is among the top Monterey breakfast spots for those looking for a quick bite to eat before they head out to explore the city. It is located near other points of interest that can be reached on foot. Boutiques, restaurants, shops, and the Monterey County Youth Museum are all nearby.

What really makes this one of the top places for breakfast in Monterey is its proximity to the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. Since the wharf is one of the most popular attractions for visitors, it is likely you will find yourself in the wharf area. And a short few block walk will allow you to reach the Paris Bakery from there.

While you are here, you may notice that the window sign and signs inside the bakery say “Montmartre French Bakery.” Don’t let this confuse you, you are in the right place!

The Breakfast Club

There’s nothing like a Monterey Bay breakfast, and you can certainly get a fantastic one at The Breakfast Club in Seaside, CA. A short 5-10 minute drive from Monterey will allow you to arrive at this laid back and mouth watering restaurant for breakfast in Monterey.

The Breakfast Club is totally unassuming and very chill. The unpretentious dining room is relaxing and very typical of an amazing breakfast joint. It’s always the laid back dining rooms that serve you the most incredible breakfasts, isn’t it?

On the breakfast menu here, you can order from a huge selection of egg dishes like omelets and Eggs Benedict, sweet options like pancakes, French Toast, and waffle, and other options like local favorites and Mexican inspired dishes. There’s also some gluten-free options as well!

The Wild Plum Cafe

Have you been looking for vegan breakfast restaurants in Monterey? The Wild Plum Cafe & Bakery is one of the best places for breakfast in Monterey and they have an excellent vegan menu.

Along with the pastry cornucopia that you can choose from at Wild Plum, there is also a menu full of breakfast and brunch On the breakfast menu here are scrambles, pancakes, breakfast burritos and tacos, and omelets. For vegans, there are vegan scrambles, breakfast tacos, mushroom chimichurri wraps, and more.

Meals here are bursting with flavors and are full of color. If a memorable brunch is important for you during your time spent in Monterey, a meal at the Wild Plum Cafe & Bakery is in order.

Scrambles and omelets are stuffed with vegetables and overflowing with seasoning and toppings, the salads are teeming with healthy nutrient-dense foods, and the pancakes are topped with sugary cooked fruit.

If you are having a sleep start and still want to get breakfast a little later in the day, no worries! Wild Plum Bistro offers some of the best dishes for brunch in Monterey. In fact, they serve breakfast all day everyday except for on Tuesdays.

Bagel Bakery

On the popular tourist street, Alvarado Street is one of the best places for breakfast in Monterey, California for those who need a quick meal during their travels or a place to pick up a bite to eat to take with them on the go.

They offer a huge variety of bagel sandwiches like the New Yorker Lox bagel, Ham and Cheese, Egg Salad, Hummus and Avocado, and the Veggie Bagel Sandwich that comes with cream cheese, avocado, sprout onion, lettuce, tomato, and cucumber.

Breakfast burritos, omelets on croissants, and croissant deli sandwiches are also on the menu here at Bagel Bakery. Pair your sandwich with a boba tea and enjoy your day spent in Monterey.

Mando’s Restaurant

Does an American breakfast in Monterey with a Mexican influence sound good to you? At Mando’s Restaurant, you can get Mexican American dishes serves under an umbrella on their cute patio or in their small dining room.

You will be happy to know that there are loads of egg breakfast options. Everything from eggs with kielbasa to eggs with Linguisa are on the menu. Of course, you will find French Toast, waffles, and pancakes as well.

For something a bit hardier, you can order Joe’s Special which is an egg scramble that comes with ground beef, onions, spinach, mushrooms, garlic butter, and parmesan cheese. And if you need something quick or to-go, the breakfast burrito is a must!

Manasiri’s Crepes & Sandwiches

Is it time for something sweet in Monterey? Manasiri’s Crepes & Sandwiches has sweet crepes that will blow your mind! You’ll find this eatery in Old Monterey on Alvarado Street. There is a charming outdoor space along the street where you can relax on the wicker furniture while you devour your sweet crepes and other pastries.

Any list of breakfast restaurants in Monterey that excludes Manasiri’s is seriously lacking this absolute gem of a restaurant. The sweet crepes on their menu include the strawberry, kiwi, and honey, the caramel apple, the classic Nutella and banana, and the lemon sugar. There are also savory crepes like the cheese and smoked turkey, the cheese, spinach, and mushroom crepe, and the cream cheese, green onion, tomato, and capers crepe.

Other than crepes, they also have hot and cold drinks, paninis, bagels, and other sweet treats like baklava, croissants, and muffins. This is a super welcoming restaurant inside and out with two toned chairs and a relaxed atmosphere, you are sure to fall in love with this chill bistro. With all of the great offerings here, you will want to make sure you don’t miss this outstanding place to get breakfast in Monterey!

Crepes On The Row Cafe

Crepes On The Row is the place to be for everyone looking for a quick breakfast near Monterey Bay Aquarium. This dreamy Cannery Row creperie has awesome crepes that you won’t want to miss!

Here, you can grab a crepe to eat as you walk the short remainder of Cannery Row to the aquarium. This creperie opens and starts serving breakfast in Monterey at nine in the morning which is an hour before the aquarium opens.

As you may have expected, both sweet and savory crepes are offered here. The sweet crepes range from lemon and sugar to caramel and apple. While the savory options range from cheese and smoked turkey to cheese, spinach and mushroom.

It is recommended for visitors who like to try local specialties to try the Monterey Special. This crepes comes with caramelized onions, sautéed spinach, feta cheese, and sun dried tomatoes. Super yummy!

First Awakenings

When it comes time to enjoy a lovely vegan breakfast in Monterey, First Awakenings needs to be on your short list of places to visit! The Monterey location of First Awakenings is on David Avenue, just a block from the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.

If you visit First Awakenings on a good weather day in Monterey, consider city outside in the large seating area under an umbrella. The sun and salty air are perfect additions to your brunch experience here.

There are so many remarkable menu items here that it can be hard to choose just one!

Some of the mind-blowing breakfast offerings at First Awakenings include a California Crepe that comes with avocado, mushroom, onion, ham, and sprouts, a Bombero Burrito that comes loaded with scrambles eggs, ham, bacon, sausage, onions, and mushrooms, and Woodstock Oatmeal that comes with chia seeds, banana, walnut, almond milk, raisins, and brown sugar.

If you find yourself more inland looking for some nice restaurants in Salinas, First Awakenings has a location there as well.

Sunrise Cafe

The light and airy dining room at Sunrise Cafe draws in loads of visitors for some of the best breakfast in Monterey, California. Located on Lighthouse Avenue, a visit to the Sunrise Cafe is elegant and dreamy. Don’t brush by this perfect cafe while you are in Monterey.

Don’t let the unassuming exterior and laid back dining area fool you, a meal at the Sunrise Cafe is highly desirable. They also have an incredible beverage menu. They offer grapefruit juice, guava juice, and other fresh juice along with lattes, and other coffee offerings.

On the menu, you will find calamari, burgers, the Monterey omelettes, egg skillets, Eggs Benedict, breakfast burritos, biscuit and gravy, Prime New York Steak and eggs, avocado toast, pancakes, waffles, and more!

Sunrise Cafe is just two blocks from San Carlos Beach, a few minute walk to the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and three blocks from the world-famous Cannery Row. It is the perfect place to start your day before you head off to explore Monterey and everything it has to offer.

Pavel’s Backerei

Pavel’s Backerei is a five-minute drive from the Monterey Bay Aquarium across from the Grove Market in Pacific Grove. One of the top places for a quick breakfast in Pacific Grove, a visit to Pavel’s Backerei is well worth the short drive from Monterey.

This may be the only one of the places for breakfast in Monterey County to be cash only. The vibe here is old school and the use of cash-only transactions adds to that experience. If you want to add Pavel’s to your Monterey itinerary, be sure to come with cash in hand.

The offerings at Pavel’s are huge. Large chocolate croissants, tarts, danishes, cinnamon rolls, and bear claws are all massive. The large portions and budget-friendly prices are things that keep locals and visitors returning time and time again.

If you are looking for Monterey breakfast stops that offer something quick and delicious, consider swinging by Pavel’s!

Tuck Box

While looking for a delicious meal to start your day, consider making the short 10-20 minute drive to the Tuck Box. Visiting this fairytale like restaurant is one of the best things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea and it is by far one of the best places to get breakfast in Monterey County.

Carmel-By-The-Sea is known for its fairytale-like cottages and buildings. These buildings are a part of what gives Carmel its charm. When you dine at the Tuck Box you are graced with striped awnings, European-style architecture, and a menu of classic American fare accompanied with a few European options.

You can get breakfast at the Tuck Box until around 11:30 and after that, some breakfast items will appear on the lunch menu as well, so all you brunch lovers will feel right at home here at the Tuck Box. Keep in mind that guests are served in a first-come first-serve fashion and no reservations are accepted.

On the menu, there are oats, Belgian waffles, omelets, Eggs Benedict, country potatoes, scones, fresh squeezed juice, salads, deviled eggs, and more. Beers from the Carmel Brewing Co. are served along with select English beers. There is an Afternoon Tea and Late Luncheon Menu as well.

Del Monte Grill and Cafe

The Del Monte Grill and Cafe is an excellent breakfast restaurant Monterey. This Grill and Cafe is ready to bring you an impeccable breakfast in Monterey! A laid back little California eatery, Del Monte Grill and Cafe offers all day breakfast and all day lunch, both! So, you can get your American favorites at any time of the day!

The breakfast menu here includes a massive omelette menu! They offer omelettes on every end of the breakfast spectrum. From baby shrimp, chorizo, and Mexican omelettes to Calamari, New York Steak, and Denver omelettes, you have more than enough to browse through if you have your sights set on ordering a mouth watering omelette while you are here!

Also on the menu are pancakes, Eggs Benedict, burrito bowls, prawns rancheros, pastrami melts, B.L.T.’s, grilled salmon, grilled tilapia tacos, milk shakes, juices, and Del Monte Style burgers. The Hawaiian burgers and the Teriyaki Mushroom and Swiss Cheeseburger are both worth a try!

Rosine’s Restaurant

Rosine’s Restaurant is among the top places for breakfast in Monterey. You will find this lovely American restaurant on Alvarado Street where they serve basic American dishes along with desserts like carrot cake and German chocolate cake.

Breakfast food is served until 3 pm each day at Rosine’s. You will find all of your favorites like eggs Benedict (cooked in different ways!) They have a salmon florentine Benedict, a turkey avocado mushroom Benedict, and a veggie Benedict as well!

Also on the menu are steak and eggs, omelets, scrambles, pancakes, French toast, and more! If you are there for brunch, consider trying a select cocktail or perhaps indulging in the mimosa bar or going with the old tried and true Bloody Mary.

Of all the restaurants in Monterey, Rosine’s is one that really makes you feel at home and like you are enjoying a little slice of Americana. Visiting Rosine’s is one of the best things to do in central coast California for anyone looking to indulge in dishes that are the epitome of American breakfast.

Tides Waterfront Kitchen

Breakfast in Monterey with an ocean view could not get any better than at Tides Waterfront Kitchen. What beats breakfast with a waterfront view? Not much!

This informal beach front dining opportunity has lovely window front or patio seating where you are served casual California cuisine. The restaurant is located in the Monterey Tides Hotel and while they don’t have a dress code, they do deliver on giving guests the finest experience with spectacular views.

Breakfast at the Tides Waterfront Kitchen includes omelettes, huevos rancheros, steak and eggs, avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches, parfaits, farmers market egg scrambles, Eggs Benedict, pancakes, French Toast, and more!

You truly can’t beat such delicious food and panoramic views of the Monterey Bay! Once you are done at Tides Waterfront Kitchen and you feel like grabbing something sweet after your Sunday brunch, there are great places to grab some ice cream in Monterey after your meal.

Schooners Monterey

This Cannery Row staple offers visitors beautiful meals for breakfast in Monterey. Elegant and modern, Schooners has the best views of any restaurant in Monterey. The attractive dining room and large floor to ceiling windows create a breath taking space for you to have breakfast.

Like the restaurant itself, the meals here are also elevated. You will find things like Dungeness Crab Eggs Benedict, seafood omelets, and Barrel Aged Smoked Salmon on the breakfast menu.

Of course, staples like pancake stacks are on the menu along with healthy choices like steal cut oats, house made granola parfaits, and avocado toast. And if you want something small, consider ordering a fresh juice with something from the Tidal Bakery like a cinnamon roll or gluten free muffin.

Grandma’s Kitchen

Are you looking for Sunday brunch in Monterey CA? Grandma’s Kitchen has you covered! This eatery in Monterey can be found on North Fremont Street. The relaxed atmosphere and old-school dining room is the perfect place to be for visitors looking for an American Diner experience.

Grandma’s Kitchen makes you feel at home as plates full of scrambled eggs, country potatoes, hash browns, French Toast, and burgers roll out of the kitchen and fill the dining room with good tasting (and good looking!) American classics!

The variety at this American Diner does not disappoint. Whether you are looking for Eggs Benedict, Chicken Bacon Club Sandwiches, Taco Salads, Pecan and Cranberry Pancakes, or anything in between, Grandma’s Kitchen has you covered for great brunch in Monterey.

Now that you have discovered the top places for breakfast in Monterey, which of these lovely restaurants will you make plans to visit?

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Brunch in Monterey is always a good idea! These restaurants in this dreamy coastal town know how to deliver great food and fun atmospheres to visitors. You can have your brunch served on outdoor patios, to cozy diner booths, in elegant restaurant dining rooms, or overlooking the Monterey Bay.

Visiting some of the best brunch options here is one of the best things to do in Monterey. There are so many incredible restaurants in Monterey, visiting a couple during your visit to this idyllic coastal town is something that you won’t want to miss out on!

Which of these outstanding brunch spots will you visit first?

20 Outstanding Spots for Brunch in Monterey

Wave Street Cafe

An iconic place for brunch in Monterey is the Wave Street Cafe. New American breakfast and lunch dishes are served here at Wave Street Cafe in the charming dining room that is designed in a European-bistro style, complete with an outdoor patio.

The cute building, design, and dining spaces make a visit here super desirable. Add onto that the incredible menu options and you will find yourself not wanting to leave the Wave Street Cafe as it is one of the top Monterey brunch spots!

On the All-Day Menu at Wave Street Cafe are classic breakfast favorites like oatmeal, breakfast burritos, eggs Benedict, egg scrambles, omelets, pancakes, and French Toast.

The classics are taken to the next level at this brunch joint in Monterey. You can choose from a variety of omelets like The Denver, Garden Fresh, Bay Shrimp and Spinach, The Greek, or The Vegan omelet. Eggs Benedict are serves in unique ways as well. You can get a Norwegian, Irish, Vegetarian, Hawaiian, or Garden Eggs Benedict.

For those wanting something more lunch-esque, you can choose from salads like the Brown Derby Cobb, burgers like the Black Bean Chipotle Burger, seafood like the Baja Shrimp Tacos, or something small like the Crispy Artichoke Hearts.

Grandma’s Kitchen

Are you looking for Sunday brunch in Monterey CA? Grandma’s Kitchen has you covered! This brunch eatery in Monterey can be found on North Fremont Street. The relaxed atmosphere and old-school dining room is the perfect place to be for visitors looking for an American Diner experience.

Grandma’s Kitchen makes you feel at home as plates full of scrambled eggs, country potatoes, hash browns, French Toast, and burgers roll out of the kitchen and fill the dining room with good tasting (and good looking!) American classics!

The variety at this American Diner does not disappoint. Whether you are looking for Eggs Benedict, Chicken Bacon Club Sandwiches, Taco Salads, Pecan and Cranberry Pancakes, or anything in between, Grandma’s Kitchen has you covered.

First Awakenings

When it comes time to enjoy a lovely Mothers Day brunch in Monterey, First Awakenings needs to be on your short list of places to visit! The Monterey location of First Awakenings is on David Avenue, just a block from the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.

If you visit First Awakenings on a good weather day in Monterey, consider city outside in the large seating area under an umbrella. The sun and salty air are perfect additions to your brunch experience here.

There are so many remarkable menu items here that it can be hard to choose just one!

Some of the mind-blowing breakfast offerings at First Awakenings include a California Crepe that comes with avocado, mushroom, onion, ham, and sprouts, a Bombero Burrito that comes loaded with scrambles eggs, ham, bacon, sausage, onions, and mushrooms, and Woodstock Oatmeal that comes with chia seeds, banana, walnut, almond milk, raisins, and brown sugar.

For a meal that leans more into the lunch department, the Bay Burger is a nice option that has grilled calamari steak, Monterey Jack cheese, lettuce, tartar sauce, and tomato, as well as the Black & Bleu Salad that has grilled steak, lettuce, onion, tomato, avocado, and blue cheese crumbles.

If you find yourself more inland looking for some nice restaurants in Salinas, First Awakenings has a location there as well.

Tuck Box

While looking for brunch places in Monterey, consider making the short 10-20 minute drive to the Tuck Box. Visiting this fairytale like restaurant is one of the best things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea and it is by far one of the best places to get brunch in Monterey County.

Carmel-By-The-Sea is known for its fairytale-like cottages and buildings. These buildings are a part of what gives Carmel its charm. When you dine at the Tuck Box you are graced with striped awnings, European-style architecture, and a menu of classic American fare accompanied with a few European options.

You can get breakfast at the Tuck Box until around 11:30 and after that, some breakfast items will appear on the lunch menu as well, so all you brunch lovers will feel right at home here at the Tuck Box. Keep in mind that guests are served in a first-come first-serve fashion and no reservations are accepted.

On the menu, there are oats, Belgian waffles, omelets, Eggs Benedict, country potatoes, scones, fresh squeezed juice, salads, deviled eggs, and more. Beers from the Carmel Brewing Co. are served along with select English beers. There is an Afternoon Tea and Late Luncheon Menu as well.

Loulou’s Griddle in The Middle

Does Loulou’s sound familiar? If you have watch The Food Network then it probably does sound familiar! This incredible coastal diner was on Diners Drive Ins and Divers and should always been in discussion about the best brunch Monterey.

Loulou’s Griddle in The Middle is a family-friendly spot for brunch in Monterey. It is located on the Municipal Wharf which is right next to the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. If you are just passing through and looking for some of the best free things to do in Monterey, The Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-visit!

Loulou’s Griddle In The Middle has some of the very best brunches in Monterey. The restaurant claims that they have “good eats and crazy waitresses!” This American restaurant serves up hearty seafood dishes and incredible breakfast fare. Omelets, pancakes, French Toast, oatmeal, and more can be found at Loulou’s.

The coolest things to order off the breakfast menu are the pancakes because they are massive and can be filled with your favorite fruits and chocolate chips. For more savory lunch-type meals, you can order salads, soups, burgers and sandwiches, and of course, fresh seafood. Like most restaurants on the water in Monterey, they also serve incredible clam chowder as well.

Village Corner Bistro

Village Corner Bistro has been around since 1948 and is known as having some of the best breakfast in Monterey. If you are thinking about swinging by here for brunch, go for it! The Mediterranean-inspired fare is served in a casual dining space or on their charming patio.

The buildings itself is super attractive with blue window frames, brick walls, and an old-timey font used to write the name of the restaurant on the wall of the building. The aesthetics here do not disappoint. So, head on in to the Village Corner for some of the best brunch in Monterey.

The menu is packed with classic breakfast options like eggs, pancakes, sausage, breakfast potatoes, hash browns, fresh fruit, and more. The breakfast menu is served until 11:30 and there is a brunch extension that is served throughout their lunch hours as well.

The brunch menu includes the Village Omelette which comes with smoked ham, onions, pepper, and Cheddar Jack cheese, a Carmel Benedict which is a traditional Benedict with smoked ham, and Avocado toast which is served on a baguette. The lunch menu is available with plenty of vegetarian options.

Rosine’s Restaurant

Rosine’s Restaurant offers the perfect mix of American cuisine with international favorites. So, you won’t be surprised to hear that it is among the top restaurants in Monterey. Decadent cakes, seafood dishes, coastal classics, and their iconic Hearty Homemade Beef Minestrone Soup are all available to your when you visit.

The Hearty Minestrone that is served here was featured in an episode of Diners Drive Ins and Dives (wow, there must be something in the water here in Monterey!), season 20, episode 2.

The breakfast menu at Rosine’s is served until 3pm, making it a great place for brunch in Monterey. A family favorite offered here is the Chili Egg Puff. It is baked eggs, three cheeses, chiles, jalapeños, pico de gallo, and your choice of meat. If you want to try something special, check out the Chili Egg Puff!

Also on the menu are all of your brunch favorites like avocado toast, country potato skillets, biscuits and gravy, Eggs Benedict, steak and eggs, omelets, pancakes, waffles, and French Toast. Plus, theres an incredible Mimosa bar!

Esteban Restaurant

Esteban Restaurant offers a luscious Easter brunch in Monterey. Each year, they serve their regular breakfast menu in the morning then switch over to a special brunch menu. For this meal, it is recommended that you make a reservation.

The chef uses delicious farm-fresh ingredients to put a Spanish twist on classic brunch favorites at Esteban’s. You can expect to see dishes like Montadito which is poached eggs serves with serrano, avocado, Carmel Valley olive oil and grilled bread, Dungeness Crab Cakes, Lox and Bagels, Cinnamon Rolls, and more on the brunch menu.

Heading to one of the top bakeries in Monterey after brunch is the perfect way to end a fantastic meal. There are loads of bakeries to check out in town where you can grab tasty Danishes, Eclairs, Cinnamon Rolls, and more to round off your brunch.

Old Monterey Cafe

For Sunday brunch in Monterey, you can head to the Old Monterey Cafe on Alvarado Street. Here you can get made-to-order breakfast and lunch dishes served in a diner-like dining room. Classic American diner plates are produced from the kitchen at Old Monterey Cafe.

Plates loaded with sausage, burritos, hash browns, pancakes, Eggs Benedict, toast, eggs, burgers, and more cover the tables of this incredible brunch joint in Monterey. The chill vibe and amazing menu allowed Old Monterey Cafe to be voted Monterey County’s best breakfast, lunch, and java.

The menu at Old Monterey Cafe is filled with egg scrambles like the Tahoe Scrambler which comes with hickory smoked ham, onion, pepper, and cheese, French Toast like the Cinnamon Raison Swirl French Toast, pancake stacks like the Apple Compote Pancakes, Eggs Benedict like the Turkey Avocado Benedict, and big crispy Belgian Waffles.

The Black Bear Diner Monterey

Burger, omelets, and chicken fried steaks, oh my! The Black Bear Diner is by and large one of the top places to get brunch in Monterey. Starting with the breakfast items, they have everything from omelettes and French Toast to egg combo meals and pancake stacks.

If you are wanting something more lunch-esque, you can sink your teeth into one of their specialty burgers or sandwiches. A few incredible options include the open faced hot turkey sandwich and the chicken avocado club sandwich. If you are wondering what time to arrive for brunch, the answer is any time! They serve breakfast dishes all day!

One of the best things about eating here is the dessert menu. They have dreamy pies and cakes for you to indulge in after your brunch. They have California cheesecake, apple cobbler, chocolate cream pie, five layer chocolate cake, and banana cream pie, just to name a few!

Stationæry

Stationæry serves brunch in Carmel, a short drive from Monterey. Brunch at this nice Carmel restaurant is served daily from 8 am to 3 pm. The menu will allow you to indulge in some incredibly memorable dishes. Everything on the menu here is elevated and has something special that won’t let you forget your meal and your time spent in their modern dining room.

This is a must-have on your list of best places to get brunch in Monterey as it offers a higher end experience that many brunch restaurants in Monterey don’t offer. The brunch menus most exciting dish is the caviar and chips. Tsar Nicolai caviar is served with creme fraiche and kettle cooked chips.

Other items include the Farmers Salad which comes topped with sheeps milk cheese, pistachios, and cider vinaigrette, the Potato Pancake which comes with a poached duck egg, culatello, parmigiano, and roasted asparagus, and the sausage Banh Mi which is spicy pork sausage, carrots, fried egg, cucumbers, Thai basil, cilantro, daikon radish, and sambal mayo.

Crepes of Brittany

Brunch in Monterey is simply mind-blowing when you visit Crepes of Brittany on Alvarado Street. This creperie is open in the mornings and afternoons and they offer dine-in and takeaway options at this cut waterside location.

The creperie will serve you either sweet or savory crepes, depending on your mood! On the sweet menu there are lemon sugar crepes, peach melba crepes, blueberry cream cheese crepes, and Nutella crepes.

If you want something more savory, you can order a ham or turkey crepe, an imported brie and caramelized onion crepe, or a wild smoked salmon crepe. Onion soup, sandwiches, and tuna salad are also on the menu along with a large selection of coffee and some alcoholic beverages.

Crepes of Brittanys is in a great location in town that is within walking distance of two of the best beaches in Monterey, Del Monte Beach and San Carlos Beach. Being on Alvarado Street, it is also lovely as there are many of the best things to do in town right there on Alvarado within walking distance of your brunch spot.

Wild Plum Cafe

Have you been looking for a vegan brunch spot in Monterey CA? The Wild Plum Cafe & Bakery is one of the best places for brunch in Monterey and they have an excellent vegan menu.

Along with the pastry cornucopia that you can choose from at Wild Plum, there is also a menu full of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options as well. On the breakfast menu here are scrambles, pancakes, breakfast burritos and tacos, and omelets. For vegans, there are vegan scrambles, breakfast tacos, mushroom chimichurri wraps, and more.

Meals here are bursting with flavors and are full of color. If a memorable brunch is important for you during your time spent in Monterey, a meal at the Wild Plum Cafe & Bakery is in order.

Scrambles and omelets are stuffed with vegetables and overflowing with seasoning and toppings, the salads are teeming with healthy nutrient-dense foods, and the pancakes are topped with sugary cooked fruit. You won’t want to miss out on this Monterey gem.

Carmel Belle

Carmel Belle is a unique little cafe that is a counter-serve space that dispenses gourmet meals that are made from locally-sourced ingredients. The food is served in a charming country-chic setting, making this one of the best places for brunch in Monterey County.

Breakfast items are served until noon on weekdays and until 1 pm on weekends, so you can fulfill your brunch dreams here at Carmel Belle. You can try the poached eggs, truffles egg toast, roasted mushroom melt, or perhaps a tofu scramble during your visit.

If you need something a bit more filling, a breakfast sandwich may be just the thing! They have a lovely prociutto la quercia, an ooey gooey grilled chocolate, and a packed breakfast burrito as well.

While their breakfast menu is most popular, the lunch items are available to you all day every day. The lunch menu includes small snacks like a veggie plate, warm sandwiches like the ham, fontina and pear sandwich, cold sandwiches like the chicken and brie, salads like the citrus, pistachio, olive, and pecan salad, and cheese and charcuterie boards.

When you are done at Carmel Belle, you can visit their Juice Bar before you leave. Here you can get smoothies and fresh juices made just for you. This makes a great take away item for you if you plan on walking around a bit after your meal. A beautiful walk around this part of the Monterey Peninsula is made better with a fresh juice in your hand.

Tides Waterfront Kitchen

Sunday brunch in Monterey could not get any better than at Tides Waterfront Kitchen. What beats brunch with a waterfront view? Not much! While Tides does not offer traditional brunch hours, it still needs to be included here as what it has to offer is too good to pass up. So, be sure to consider swinging by for a late breakfast while you are in Monterey!

This informal beach front dining opportunity has lovely window front or patio seating where you are served casual California cuisine. The restaurant is located in the Monterey Tides Hotel and while they don’t have a dress code, they do deliver on giving guests the finest experience with spectacular views.

Breakfast at the Tides Waterfront Kitchen includes omelettes, huevos rancheros, steak and eggs, avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches, parfaits, farmers market egg scrambles, Eggs Benedict, pancakes, French Toast, and more!

You truly can’t beat such delicious food and panoramic views of the Monterey Bay! Once you are done at Tides Waterfront Kitchen and you feel like grabbing something sweet after your Sunday brunch, there are great places to grab some ice cream in Monterey after your meal.

Katy’s Place

This breakfast restaurants has some of the very best brunch on the Monterey Peninsula! Burgers, Benedicts, and other delectable brunch staples are served to guests in diner-style seating or on their outdoor patio. Breakfast and lunch both are served all day long so you can eat your favorites until your hearts content, no matter what time of day you visit.

A few elevated dishes that you can try at Katy’s Place include Calamari Benedict and the Lance Barrow Omelette which comes with lobster, crab, shrimp, spinach, tomatoes, and mushrooms.

They also have more down to Earth offerings like the Country Omelette, California Benedict which comes with turkey and avocado, Buttermilk Pancakes, French Toast, or an order of eggs with your meat of choice.

If you want something on the lunch side of things you can order delicious Maryland crab cakes, shrimp quesadilla, a Santa Fe chicken breast sandwich, a basic burger, Greek salad, an Albacore Tuna salad sandwich, or a melty grilled ham and cheese. No matter how you choose to eat at Katy’s, this is one of the top spots for brunch in Monterey County.

Del Monte Grill & Cafe

Del Monte Grill and Cafe is ready to bring you impeccable brunch in Monterey! This California eatery offer all day breakfast and lunch. So, you can get your American favorites at any time of the day!

The breakfast menu here includes a massive omelette menu! They offer omelettes on every end of the breakfast spectrum. From baby shrimp, chorizo, and Mexican omelettes to Calamari, New York Steak, and Denver omelettes, you have more than enough to browse through if you have your sights set on ordering a mouth watering omelette while you are at the Del Monte Grill and Cafe.

Also on the menu are pancakes, Eggs Benedict, burrito bowls, prawns rancheros, pastrami melts, B.L.T.’s, grilled salmon, grilled tilapia tacos, milk shakes, juices, and Del Monte Style burgers. The Hawaiian burgers and the Teriyaki Mushroom and Swiss Cheeseburger are both worth a try!

Sunrise Cafe

The light and airy dining room at Sunrise Cafe draws in loads of visitors for brunch in Monterey. Located on Lighthouse Avenue, a visit to the Sunrise Cafe is elegant and dreamy. Don’t brush by this perfect cafe while you are in Monterey.

Don’t let the unassuming exterior and laid back dining area fool you, a meal at the Sunrise Cafe is highly desirable. They also have an incredible beverage menu. They offer grapefruit juice, guava juice, and other fresh juice along with lattes, and other coffee offerings.

On the menu, you will find calamari, burgers, the Monterey fish sandwich, Greek salad, a Carmel fish salad, prawn scampi pasta, omelettes, egg skillets, Eggs Benedict, breakfast burritos, biscuit and gravy, Prime New York Steak and eggs, avocado toast, pancakes, waffles, and more!

Sunrise Cafe is just two blocks from San Carlos Beach, a few minute walk to the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and three blocks from the world-famous Cannery Row. It is the perfect place to start your day before you head off to explore Monterey and everything it has to offer.

The Little Swiss Cafe

If you are looking for brunch in Carmel, just a short drive from Monterey, The Little Swiss Cafe offer kid-friendly Swiss breakfast and lunch options like blintzes and pancakes in a quirky dining space complete with murals on the walls.

The Little Swiss Cafe has all of the fairytale charm that this part of the Monterey Peninsula is known for. Plus, breakfast is served all day here so you can enjoy brunch at whatever time works for you!

The breakfast menu is packed with everything from French Toast, pancakes, and waffles to breakfast burritos, omelettes, and biscuits and gravy. The lunch menu offers hot and cold sandwiches, salads, and entrees like the low calories ground steak, the braised pork chops, poached filet of salmon, and the fresh vegetable plate.

To wrap up your incredible brunch in Monterey County, you can order a homemade cheesecake or a delectable apple strudel. Both are can be ordered a la mode!

Winston’s A Brunch Place

Winston’s A Brunch Place in nearby Pacific Grove offer flavor packed brunch dishes that you won’t soon forget. Like most places to get brunch in Monterey, Winston’s has a menu that is diverse and envy inducing.

You can order luscious options like traditional waffles topped with powdered sugar, butter, and syrup, French Toast with sautéed bananas and hazelnut spread, chicken and waffles, Irish steel cut oatmeal, a ham and cheese omelette, Eggs Benedict, or a combo plate that comes with eggs, your choice of sausage, bacon, or ham, and a buttermilk biscuit.

There is also an exciting wine menu that includes white, ride, and sparkling wines. You can order Blood Mary’s and Mimosas as well. The mimosa flavors at Winston’s include guava, mango, pineapple, grapefruit, cranberry, and orange!

When it comes time for you to head out and find brunch in Monterey, hopefully you have a good idea on where you would like to go now that you have learned a bit about the best spots for brunch in town!

So, tell us, which of these brunch spots will you be visiting first?

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Visiting the impressive bars in Monterey is a must-do when in town! This dazzling wave battered town in central coast California is full of amazing bars for visitors to check out. In fact, many of the bars have made their way onto the list of the best things to do in Monterey!

Whether you are looking for a bar overlooking the water, something small and intimate, or something a little louder and lively, Monterey truly has everything you could hope for. So, let’s get started and learn about the coolest bars in the area!

Your Bars in Monterey Questions Answered

Does Monterey have a night life?

Absolutely! Night life in Monterey is buzzing with live music, bars, and events. The bars in Monterey are just one part of the equation when it comes to the night life here. Cannery Row and Alvarado Street both are lively places to be at night time.

Where can I go on a date in Monterey?

The bars in Monterey make for great date night locations, but there are other options as well. While most of the best spots in town are in the New Monterey and Downtown Monterey areas, there are loads of restaurants and evening attractions for you to enjoy.

While we are going to discuss the best bars in this article, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, waterfront restaurants, the best beaches in Monterey, and other popular attractions all make for incredible date locations in town.

What is there to do in Monterey on a Saturday night?

Other than the bars in Monterey, on a Saturday night, you can go shopping at the Del Monte Shopping Center or at Steinbeck Plaza and Cannery Row, play a round at an escape room, listen to live music, enjoy a festival or event in town or at the Monterey County Fairgrounds, watch a comedy show, go to the movies, and more.

15 Impressive Bars in Monterey California

Sly McFly’s [Sly’s Fueling Station]

It’s impossible to talk about nightlife in Monterey CA without talking about Sly McFly’s, now called Sly’s Fueling Station. While there aren’t any clubs in Monterey, Sly McFly’s offers a lively atmosphere and live music in a laid back setting on Cannery Row.

At Sly’s, they offer red, white, and sparkling wines, drafts and bottles, and specialty cocktails. If you aren’t sure what to try, consider diving into the Sly’s Pineapple Rita. It is Reposado, cointreau, pineapple juice, and fresh lime juice on the rocks!

On the menu at Sly’s, you’ll find starters like street tacos and herbed garlic fries. Then, sink your teeth into one of their delicious sandwiches, burgers, or entrees. They have everything from lobster rolls and beyond burgers to pan seared New Zealand Ora King Salmon and Cioppino.

While the food and drinks are fantastic, it is the fact that they are open seven days a week and have live music each night that makes this one of the best bars in Monterey. There’s nothing like great food, tasty drinks, and fun nightlife to add to your time spent in on the Monterey Bay.

Segovia’s Cocktail Bar & Lounge

One of the best bars in Monterey is Segovia’s Cocktail Bar and Lounge. You will find this moody bar on Lighthouse Avenue in New Monterey. It has been around since 1937 and delivers when it comes to that small dive bar feel. There is a juke box, a dart board, a small fire pit, and indoor and outdoor seating.

Segovia’s is open seven days a week from 7 pm to 2 am and is near many cool things to do in the area. Close to the bar you can go shopping, visit a nearby beach, see top attractions, enjoy an escape room game, and try one of the best restaurants in Monterey.

This Lighthouse Ave bar is within walking distance from Cannery Row, seafood restaurants, Mexican restaurants, and American restaurants, as well as the Antiques Mall. So, once your day is done in the area, head on in to Segovia’s Cocktail Bar and Lounge to end your night!

Savvy Bar

Visiting some Monterey California bars is a must for anyone who is coming to town for a visit. Savvy Bar is arguably the most fun of all the bars in Monterey. It is a speakeasy inspired bar on Tyler Street that comes complete with a dress code and password.

When you visit the bar Thursday through Saturday you will need to follow their dress code. Men should have on collars or lapels and women should dress tastefully as well. Everyone should avoid shorts, holey jeans, Uggs, flip flops, beanies, and ball caps.

The theme here at Savvy is lovely. They offer Prohibition-Barrel inspired cocktails and music in soft lighting and velvet covered walls. One of their popular cocktails is the Mexican Firing Squad. It’s made from Herradura Tequilla, Grenadine, lime juice, Mole Bitter, and a lime twist. You can also order bespoke cocktails that are mixed on demand.

If you want a bite to eat while you are here, they have snacks and menu of small plated from around the globe. This includes chips and salsa, pickled eggs and sausages, and hot dogs. The food menu here is made primarily of Mexican, American, and Persian dishes, but they are working on adding more to the menu.

Peter B’s Brewpub

Just across from the Old Fishermans Wharf is Peter B’s Brewpub where you can enjoy the casual setting and delicious bar bites and beer flights that are served here. You can devour fish and chips, fried pickles, Diablo burgers, Bavarian pretzels, loaded nachos, Margherita pizza and more at Peter B’s!

Now, on to what we really care about when it comes to bars in Monterey, the drinks! The have great cocktails here like the High West Manhattan which is made from rye whiskey, vermouth, and bitter, The Monterey Moscow Mule which is made with Tito’s, triple sec, ginger beer, lemon, lime, and orange juice, and the Pomeranian lemonade that is made from Tito’s, pomegranate juice, and lemonade.

Something really cool about this bar is that they offer Bark Bowls. If you are a dog parent traveling with their doggo to Monterey, you can pick them up a Bark Bowl while you are at Peter B’s. They have ground beef meat roaff, a turkey K-9 casserole, and chicken with quinoa.

The Crown & Anchor

There aren’t gay bars in Monterey CA anymore, but Gay Travel lists the Crown and Anchor as being one of the best gay friendly bars in Monterey. It is located on West Franklin Street in Old Monterey incredible restaurants. If you want to head out for a bite to eat before going to The Crown and Anchor, consider Sur Burger or Round Table Pizza. Both fabulous places for a casual bite to eat. However, you can totally eat at bar instead if thats what you prefer!

While there is a large food menu at The Crown and Anchor, it maintains its bar feel. UK dishes and decor are plentiful here. On the menu, you can expect to find dishes like corned beef and cabbage, fish and chips, steak and mushroom pie, bangers and mash, and smoked brisket. They also offer American staples and other international cuisine. Like turkey melts, burgers, Ruebens, B.L.T.’s, and more.

When it comes to drinks at The Crown and Anchor, they have a variety of wines, Winter Warmers, draft beers, imported and domestic bottled beers, and British specialties. If you find yourself walking around Monterey near the wharfs, you can easily reach The Crown and Anchor on foot. Happy Hour here is Monday through Friday from 4-6 pm!

Pearl Hour

The Pearl Hour on Lighthouse Avenue is a moody little cocktail spot that is easily one of the top bars in Monterey CA. At Pearl Hour, you have all of the classics at your disposal like the Gin and Tonic, Lemon Drop, Manhattan, and Paloma. On top of that they have unique cocktails like the Sunrise in Japan which is Satsuma gin, Oka Kura Bermutto, and Mugwort Tincture.

Beers, shots, wine, and sake are all also offered at the Pearl Hour alongside bar snacks like almonds and cheezits! And if you are headed to the bar with someone who won’t be drinking alcohol, there are herbal teas, alcohol free cocktails, and a soda fountain that has unique flavors like honeycomb, hibiscus, and Ginger beer.

The Pearl Hour is just two blocks away from the beautiful San Carlos Beach and the Coast Guard Pier. This is a great place for wildlife viewing! There are almost always seals and sea lions swimming around the pier or lounging on the rocks. You may even see a sea otter or two!

London Bridge Pub

London Bridge Pub is simply unreal. It sits on the edge of the Monterey Bay overlooking the boats docked off of the Municipal Wharf. This ideal location gives you beautiful views of the water and puts you in a great place for exploring top Monterey attractions before you head in for a drink and a bite to eat.

The menu here to accompany your drinks of choice is spectacular. There are pub favorites on the menu like blackened Icelandic cod, bangers and mash, curry, and cottage pi along with American favorites like the BBQ bacon cheese burger.

Like all bars in Monterey, the drink selection at London Bridge Pub does not disappoint. You will find local craft ales, imports, cider, seltzers, bottled beers, wines, and champagne. Come on in at Happy Hour Monday through Friday 3-6 pm for deals on beer pints, house wine, and liquors.

Britannia Arms

If you are looking for downtown Monterey bars, consider stopping in Britannia Arms. Easily one of the top bars in Monterey, this British bar has TVs and live music to add to your experience. Before you head in, you may want to stop across the street at Revival Ice Cream where you can try some of the best ice cream in Monterey!

The beer selection at Britannia Arms is massive. They offers common beers like Bud Light and Blue Moon, plus a lot of less popular drinks like Mango Cart, Firestone Nitro Merlin, Elysian Space Dust, Ballast Point, and Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Hazy IPA.

If you don’t start your visit off at Britannia Arms with a beer, maybe one of their cocktail will be in the cards for you. A Washington Apple, Jager Bomb, or a Ketel Cucumber Mule may be just what you need to go along with your appetizer of choice. There’s everything from onion rings and chicken wings to fries and chips and salsa.

Bulldog Sports Pub

Looking for sports bars in Monterey, California? Bulldog Sports Pub is on Lighthouse Avenue in Monterey. This bar offer classic British pub fare from cottage pie to Scotch eggs. You can sit and enjoy your meal and drinks while you watch sports on TV.

You can go light here at Bulldog Sports Pub with a Cobb Salad or a Big Tuna Salad, or try something a bit hardier like a rib dinner, an Irish stew, or a steak and mushroom pie. And for those who are only stepping in for a little bit to have a drink and something small, the pig skins or the nachos may be more your speed!

Bulldog Sports Pub proclaims to not only be the best sports bar in town, but also have the best Guinness around. So, be sure to swing by and check it out if you find yourself in the area.

Turn 12 Bar & Grill

Turn 12 Bar and Grill offers American classics in their open dining room decorated with vintage raceway decor. The elevated pub fare, the Late Night Menu, drink selection, and vibe here are what makes Turn 12 one of the most popular bars in Monterey.

On the Late Night Menu at Turn 12, you’ll find truffle fries, chicken wings, jalapeno poppers, and a large selection of pizzas. The Turn 12 pizza comes with pepperoni, sausage, black olives, and green peppers while the Manchego Apple comes with two types of cheeses, balsamic onions, bacon, Alfredo sauce, and roasted apples.

A trip to Turn 12 wouldn’t be complete without trying one of their killer cocktails. The T-12 Margarita is stunning, but there’s also the MI-6 which is made with Grey Goose, Lillet Blanc, and St. Germain and served with an orange twist. Draft and bottle beer are available as well.

Hellam’s Tobacco & Wine Shop

This has to be one of the most unexpected bars in Monterey. Hellam’s Tobacco and Wine Shop gives you the opportunity to shop cigars, wines, liquors, and more in a bar environment. A long bar along with tables and chairs fill half of this Monterey CA bar while the other half is dedicated to shopping.

If you want a cool place to do some souvenir shopping while you are in Monterey, you really can’t beat Hellam’s! Having a place to shop and lounge with a good drink is super exciting and lucky for you, there is such a place right here in Monterey!

The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar

This restaurant and sports bar in Monterey is a popular place to visit on Cannery Row. The bar is in a rustic building that was built in 1929. The Salty Seal serves up English bar bites and local draft beers in the cozy indoor space and outdoor seating areas.

Like many of the best bars in Monterey, The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar serves local drinks alongside international favorites. Here, you can get drafts from California breweries like Alvarado Street Brewery, English Ales Brewery, Dust Bowl Brewery, and others.

If you are more of a cocktail person, you will be excited to see the cocktails on the menu at the Salty Seal. Interesting twists on classics create an interesting menu. They offer Mexican Mules which is made with tequila, ginger beer, and lime juice, a Bermuda style rum and coke that is made with Gosling’s Black Seal Rum, and a honey whiskey iced tea that is made with lemonade!

They serve lunch and dinner at the Salty Seal along with light bites, and kids meals as well. Small bites here include vegan cauliflower bites, chips and salsa, wings, and Gilroy garlic parmesan fries. Soups, salads, and West coast favorites like fish tacos are all on the menu. The Salty Seal rarely disappoints!

Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot

This staple brewing co. near the water is among the top bars in Monterey. Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot has a super inviting indoor and outdoor dining space and they offer mind blowing burgers, taco, and loaded nachos to go with your beer.

You can get Baja fish tacos, hot agave, carnitas, barbacoa, or veggie tacos here at the Dust Bowl. Or you can grab a metal tray full of loaded nachos and share them outside with a friend as you sip your beers around a fire pit. However you choose to spend your time here, it is always a really satisfying visit.

Dust Bowl beers are available in California, Vermont, Texas, Nevada, and other states as well. Some of their top beers include the Dirty 30’s, the Hobo Pilsner, the Hops of Wrath India Pale Ale, the Taco Truck Lager, the Lemon Shandy, and the Dump Truck of The Gods Mega India Pale Ale.

LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill

Does a rooftop lounge in Monterey sound appealing? LindRose Rooftop Bar and Grill. LindaRose is located on Del Monte Avenue overlooking the water. They have a small yet spectacular menu that has hummus spreads, charcuterie boards, salads, fish tacos, kebabs, baked brie with honey, and few entrees like lamb ribs and steak frites.

While the rooftop vibes and great views are idyllic, the beautiful and carefully crafted cocktails at LindaRose are what make it one of the best bars in Monterey. Some beautiful and tasty drinks that you can try here include the 1110 Pink Hawaii which is made with vodka, rum, cranberry and orange juice, and grenadine, and the Dark N Stormy which is made with dark rum, ginger beer, and transatlantic bitters.

Of course, you can find classic cocktails like a Paloma and Margarita here as well. Plus, a selection of shots, beers, and wines. If you are looking for a place to relax and chat with your friends, the grazing platters and drinks offered at LindaRose are perfect for this!

Mellville Tavern

Melville Tavern is an American gastropub on Washington Street. Easily one of the most beautiful bars in Monterey, Melville Tavern has a welcoming neighborhood feel to it. They are open until 9 pm on weekdays and 10 pm on weekends. And if your are interested in a heavy sneaky drink or two in the morning, they have brunch on Saturdays and Sundays as well.

You can bite into yummy appetizers at Melville Tavern like artichoke hearts, taquitos, loaded potato skins and nachos before moving on to a salad, pasta, or entree. The choices here are drool worthy! They have loaded salads like blackened shrimp salads as well as dishes like the fish n’ chips, duck fettuccine, and baby back ribs!

Surely, if you are looking for bars, you probably are most concerned with the drink selection here. However, we’ve got to talk about the burger, sandwiches, and pizzas available at Melville too! The over the top sandwiches here like the bacon-wrapped chili dog and the lamb burger will blow your mind! There’s also a stunning selection of wood fired pizzas.

When it comes to drinks, you can choose between bottled beers, wine by the glass, draft beers, and on weekends, bottomless mimosas! Whether you are looking for a white or a red, a stout or a porter, or a wheat or mixed ale, you are sure to love the Melville Tavern.

Now that you have heard about the best bars in Monterey, which of these do you think you will visit first? We would love to hear from you!

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