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Coastal Kitchen Monterey

4.5 (102 reviews)
Ultra High-EndSeafood, New American
Closed • Closed

Coastal Kitchen Monterey Photos

COASTAL KITCHEN MONTEREY ATMOSPHERE

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Quiet
Trendy
Intimate
Romantic

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Recommended Reviews - Coastal Kitchen Monterey

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Cod
Susanna M.

Delicious food, wonderful fine dining experience. The wine pairing was nice. I did ask for my dessert I couldn't finish to go and never received it but other than that it was fabulous. Expensive but that is expected for this kind of experience. It is more spacious than the previous restaurant that was here, quiet without being too quiet. Nice seat by the window.

Mike C.

Fine dining done right. Between the food, service, and atmosphere, all boxes are checked in dining here. Making my 1st ever visit to this part of the state, I had two goals. See the ultimate aquarium and dine here. The chef is a familiar person to me as I've dined countless times in his restaurant when he was in San Francisco. When 2020 came, I lost track of where he went until my Google search pointed me here. Coming on a Friday early evening, I made my reservation on OpenTable. I was seated at a half-moon booth facing the bay. My waiter gave me the evening's menu and my journey began. After I studied the menu, it was a no brainer in choosing the tasting menu (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=vmRUAR8mwoyFG1tAm_RD6Q) given the circumstances. I started with a mocktail (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=AS02POyiuSCnnnUiXa0B-Q) that was citrusy and yet reminded me of a mojito. Later in the meal, I tried the other mocktail option (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=0&select=RKJ1t5nzBe057rBZVdVqag), a hibiscus, pomegranate, and lemon one that was tasty and a nice contrast to the 1st one. Now to the food. I could write a book on what I ate but, since the dishes will likely be different whenever you choose to try it, I'll just detail the highlights for me. The 1st course, a three-bite plating, is eye-opening and an attention grabber. titled, "To Begin" - Kuushi oyster, watermelon, serrano, shiso, Monterey abalone - Jimmy Nardello, romaine, romesco, and Bison tenderloin - horseradish, creme fraiche (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=96&select=y8s3HkkpMlK7FXAx-TEi0Q). Each bite was distinct and delicious in their own way, using in-season ingredients to create them. Another highlight was the Kanpachi (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=96&select=Ha1rxkSDVXByLT7tnYQkZg), saffron, spring pease, kinome leaf. This is modest at 1st glance, but once you mix the ingredients, then you'll understand this (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=96&select=6vHHGsBuxpQeie8yGGlSfg). The heartier highlight was the A5 Wagyu (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=fATzMx0BAFWrqJ83Cg3GQw), which was braised for 20 hours in a red wine sauce and served on a poblano pepper; this was a supplement that my waiter recommended. The final star in this meal was the Dubai chocolate pistachio (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=CRVqJQDWraUeuDXU3Ai0vQ), Kataifl, mint, valrhona jivara milk chocolate; this was deliciously decadent and literally felt like eating a candy bar with the shredded phyllo dough a great contrast to the chocolate. The generous chef also treated me the opportunity to try the Black Truffle (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=UNG7ZnKlZgjEpkgjxHcocQ), fettucine pasta, proscuitto, parmesan, which actually became my dinner a few days later at home. Before I was given the bill, I was also given macarons which I graciously asked the waiter to pack for me and a gift bag (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=D8h8vxPXSPyeg20QVGXQKw), (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=4bsX9ad7WdSkW9RlmmPnag). This experience exceeded my expectations in every possible way. The details that Chef Michael took in creating my meal and food adventure show his passion for the customer's enjoyment. Thank you, Jesus, my waiter who guided me through this journey. I also appreciate Eli for checking in on me throughout the meal. I later learned that Chef Michael briefed him a little about my history in SF with the chef. Bravo and, needless to say, I highly recommend this for those special occasions as the view from this oceanside restaurant matches the excellence of the food and hospitality.

Hang H.

I came here for my girl friend's birthday, and had low expectations about this restaurant. Holy moly, the food here is amazing! Food, view, drinks, service, everything exceeded my expectations. Coastal Kitchen is perfect to celebrate for any occasion.

Muffins
Trish S.

Absolutely wonderful Sunday brunch tasting menu with sparkling wine included. The pastry they served alongside a lovely fresh fruit plate was craveably good and so flaky. My husband and I both loved the herbed hashbrowns as well. Our service was top notch. I'm very glad we decided to make this our last meal in Monterey. It left us with a great memory.

Wine pairing with each course. The menu changes according to season and freshness.

An absolutely amazing dining experience complete with fabulous service and a lovely atmosphere! From the first course to the last, it was stunning. The menu continually changes based on the season and fresh foods. Do the wine pairing! So worth it. And please don't take your children. This is not the place.

Diliara B.

Guys thanks for nice service! Good tasty and beautiful, amazing view, tasty wine , only one problem, restroom so far

French Milk Bread and butter
Huryoung V.

The ambiance was perfection. Elegant, quiet, gorgeous views as if on a luxury cruise. We had the chef's tasting menu. Every single bite was a delight, the pacific gold oyster was the best oyster I've ever had. A warming miso soup to open up the appetite, followed by savory bass, umami-full black truffle linguini addition, dry aged duck that was almost like a steak, rich 48 hour short rib over a perfect bed of rice, and pear tartin for dessert. Service was in-sync, professional, friendly, and above and beyond. Would definitely return.

If it's possible to give this restaurant 6 stars, I would! Coastal Kitchen is located inside the Monterey Plaza Hotel and Spa but it's afar cry from hotel dining. The balance of flavors and presentation is equivalent to a Michelin Star restaurant (surprised it hasn't received one). I recommend trying the tasting menu because that's where you'll experience the craftsmanship and creativity of Chef Michael Rotondo, an award winning chef with experiences in Michelin Stars restaurants. Wine tasting is also specular. You'll get to sample wines from various regions around the world. Not to forget, the views of the Bay from your dining table enhanced the whole experience. They provide binoculars at your tables for closeup views of activities on the Bay. Lastly and most importantly, Coastal Kitchen utilize seasonal local ingredients for a fresh and truly local taste. Kudos Sarah for sharing her knowledge of wines and everything locals.

Delicious wine
Susana N.

Perfect restaurant to celebrate an anniversary! Very inviting, beautiful view of the Monterey bay.

Five-course tasting menu.
Carlos J.

From the moment you walk in, you know it's going to be a good experience. Our server (Jesus) gave us exceptional service and a detailed explanation of our five-course tasting menu. From the first course until to the last we were amazed by the well-balanced, flavorful selection. All four of us were very happy with this wonderful experience. Thanks!

I had been to Schooners before, nice enough restaurant in the Monterey Inn. Decided to try their upscale restaurant. Went with the 7 course tasting menu with wine pairings. Every dish kind of ramped up, especially the sole with corn and almond mash. Trying to not look uncouth slurping up every drop. As Prix Fixe offerings go, It reasonably priced for the ambiance, and the quality Of food and service. Will definitely come back!

Michelle A.

Came here for my anniversary * Absolutely enjoyed the tasting menu & the view from our seats. They have binoculars for you to use- there were plenty of sea lions and otters when we went around 6 o'clock. The tasting menu came with 5 meal courses ( Pacific Oysters, grilled calamari, tempura squash blossom* Early Grill tomato* Wild King Salmon*Dry aged duck* red wine braised short rib* Cheesecake, two small candy treats) + a little dark chocolate gift bag at the end. Overall, I had no complaints of each dish but I definitely liked the Red Wine Braided short rib the most. It was perfectly cooked and soft. Each dish was served quickly and the waitors explained everything that was served to us.

Miso soup with local vegetables

Was back for a birthday celebration with son and GF. Did not disappoint. Window seating with great views of the Bay and seals, otters, birds, etc. All in for the tasting menu and 3 of us got wine pairings as well. Have pics of the meal which capture the artistry of all the dishes but the taste was also fantastic. Service was again superb, very attentive but not intrusive. The meal experience was around 3 hours but did not feel extended and we were definitely satisfied but not stuffed which is a good balance given the number of courses. Highly recommend for a great fine dining experience in the Monterey area!!

Tortellini

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10 months ago

Teegan at the front was awesome. Great staff. Amazing food and experience !! Highly recommend.

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Ask the Community - Coastal Kitchen Monterey

Can't find how much the cancellation fee is? Like if my transport is late will I lose My table and get charged?

Cancellation charge is $50 per person within 24 hours of the booking time. We don’t charge if someone is just late.

Do we need to pay for the wine pairing or can we pay for the meal and choose our drinks separately?

When we were there in June could you have the dinner without the wine pairing. Either way, it was fantastic! Enjoy!

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Stokes Adobe

Stokes Adobe

4.5
(395 reviews)
1.1 mi
•$$$

Truly enjoyed this place. It was a great experience…read more Well done. Service is outstanding.

My family and I came to visit Monterey Bay for Mother's Day weekend and it was a nice and relaxing…read moredinner. We booked Stokes Adobe for table of 8 (including two small toddlers) They brought out little coloring paper & crayons which was super nice of them. We were seated in a private area which was nice since our two small toddlers like to walk around and it's less distraction. We did family style and ordered a bit of everything! Crispy potatoes: Love the carbs! The potatoes were crispy and delicious. The lemon truffle crema sauce was so yummy! Oysters: Definitely order half shell oysters! They were delicious! Hamachi: This was okay, nothing special to be honest sinc Mussels: This one was also delicious as well. It was made with white wine and tomato broth with butter, shallot, garlic. Beets salad: You can't go wrong with ordering a beet salad! The honey vinaigrette was delicious! Santa Cruz King Salmon: This dish was simple but tasty. The Meyer lemon sauce went well with the salmon. 12oz Pork chop: The meat was soft and easy to bite into. The cauliflower puree was delicious! Snake River American Wagyu: I thought the steak was okay. It was a bit too rare for me personally but my husband liked it! Brussels sprouts: Yummmm! Love the crispy Brussels sprouts. Overall service was great and the food was good. The only downside of the night was not getting the duck liver mousse toast. Not sure why the order went through when we mentioned in the beginning but hope to try it next time we're in town.

Photos
Inside, you can choose different rooms to sit in
Inside, you can choose different rooms to sit in
Crispy potatoes
Crispy potatoes
Duck terrine

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Duck terrine
Lalla Grill Oceanside

Lalla Grill Oceanside

3.6
(1.3k reviews)
0.3 mi
•$$

Lala Grill in Monterey is the place to be if you want to turn a meal into a memorable fiesta! We…read morerolled in with a crew of 25 hungry folks, and let me tell you, we made quite the entrance. I wish I'd taken more pictures, but I was too busy trying to keep my eyes off the delicious food that was about to land on our table. Now, let's talk about the wait for our food--it felt like watching paint dry, but in the best way possible. Seriously, our stomachs were growling louder than a rock concert! But if the long wait had a soundtrack, it was the sound of our group "Dugging" (yes, you read that right!). Everyone was so excited that we could have been mistaken for a bunch of starving lions ready to pounce on a buffet. And when the food finally arrived? Oh boy, it was like the heavens opened up and dropped down a feast fit for royalty! High-fives all around! The flavors were so good, I almost forgot my name. The cioppino Flawless. The steak A masterpiece. I think I even saw some of my friends weeping tears of joy between bites. In conclusion, if you're in Monterey and want to experience a meal that will leave your taste buds dancing, head over to Lala Grill. Just be prepared to wait a bit--because good things come to those who wait, and trust me, this is worth every second. Bravo, Lala Grill! You've earned yourself a standing ovation!

Breathtaking ocean view while dining, we went there on July 14 around 6 pm, friendly staff at the…read moredoor. The problem stared with the male server with a long face, he has an attitude. Asked him the origin of their raw oysters, he answered impatiently that they came from California. The blackened Sandabs and salmon tasted good, but not the mash potatoes which taste like bleach, or the yellowish rotten looking asparagus. Won't go there again

Photos
Lalla Grill Oceanside
Lalla Grill Oceanside
Lalla Grill Oceanside

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Red House Cafe

Red House Cafe

4.3
(2.2k reviews)
1.4 mi
•$$

Recently traveled back to Pacific Grove and ate at Red House Cafe twice......back to back days…read more Service and Staff: - All staff members were kind and accommodating - Our server from the first day recognized us the second day and even said he'll see us the next day (haha) Food and Drinks: - Bloody Mary: tasty and refreshing - Lemonade: fresh, refreshing, homemade, tart. And a free refill! - Smoked salmon Benedict: I love how they make this on a croissant instead of an English muffin. This was delicious. With the side of potatoes, I was able to share this with another person - Crab cake Benedict: someone in my group got this both days because it was good - Chilaquiles: this dish was one of the specials. While flavorful, it was quite spicy and a bit overwhelming to have that spice and flavor for the whole dish - Chorizo and eggs: always a classic. Delicious, filling, and comes with a choice of corn or flour tortillas Miscellaneous: - Indoor and outdoor seating available - Stairs leading up to the indoor seating - Unisex bathroom - Good for small groups up to about 6 - Casual and average volume for how loud it is - They also have a case of pies and cakes!

Wanted to come here for breakfast but unfortunately we were a bit to late so we sat for lunch…read moreinstead. This is a cozy restaurant with a small indoor sitting room and seating outside in a covered porch area. We sat outside and really enjoyed the atmosphere. Our waitress was wonderful and she had a big beautiful smile C-: I ordered a cheeseburger "med rare" with cheddar cheese and it came with fries. The burger came nicely cooked at med rare and was actually pretty good except some of the bites I took had a heavy handed wasabi flavor. "Wasn't liking that at all" overall 2 stars for taste. Wifey ordered a portobello mushroom sandwich and a double shot of espresso coffee. Both the coffee and portobello mushroom sandwich or excellent "5 stars" overall I might come back for the portobello mushroom sandwich for lunch, but definitely not to Berger. I also would like to try the breakfast.

Photos
Cute washroom, wish it could be kept clean (not by one of the servers or any kitchen workers for sure lol) throughout the day.
Cute washroom, wish it could be kept clean (not by one of the servers or any kitchen workers for sure lol) throughout the day.
Classic country breakfast
Classic country breakfast
Cinnamon Brioche French Toast

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Cinnamon Brioche French Toast
Aliotti's Victorian Corner Restaurant

Aliotti's Victorian Corner Restaurant

4.3
(813 reviews)
1.2 mi
•$$
Locally owned & operated
46 years in business

We have been to Aliotti's Victorian Corner restaurant a few times over the years. I'm not sure what…read morehappened to my review, but I will write another one! It's been around forever! If you ask the locals for a non touristy place to eat, this is it! We've had breakfast and lunch here. You cannot go wrong with any of their menu options. The people working here are down to earth and friendly. We normally will ask them for recommendations. We enjoy their Classic BLT's, the Meatball sandwich, the Hot Pastrami, and the Cobb Salad. As far as breakfast is concerned, we love their chicken fried steak, Denver Omelette, French Toast, and pancakes. Overall, a great local restaurant with years of experience. The food is delicious and the employees make you feel welcomed. We will have to come for dinner next time!

We had dinner here the night before, starting with the garlic bread as an appetizer which didn't…read moredisappoint. I ordered the French dip, and my husband had the sausage sandwich. The French dip was one of the best I've had, especially because of the au jus--you could taste the authenticity. The same goes for the sausage sandwich. You can just tell many of the dishes are made in-house. Family photos are throughout the restaurant, and it's clear this is a family-owned business. The same people in the photos are the ones behind the counter, working hard and serving the holiday crowd with kindness. The food felt so homestyle and delicious that we came back for breakfast the next morning. We'll definitely be returning the next time we're back in PG.

Photos
Giving my heart to my latte!
Giving my heart to my latte!
Fresh seasonal fruit cup
Fresh seasonal fruit cup
Breakfast menu

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Breakfast menu

Coastal Kitchen Monterey - seafood - Updated July 2026

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