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Coastal Kitchen Monterey

4.5 (99 reviews)
Ultra High-EndSeafood, New American
Closed • 5:30 pm - 8:30 PM

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COASTAL KITCHEN MONTEREY ATMOSPHERE

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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.

Diliara B.

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

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.

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.

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.

Delicious wine
Susana N.

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

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.

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!

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
Thomas R.

I was working in the area for the weekend and my love interest insisted on coming with. She found this place and we made the latest reservations possible. Located in the Monterey plaza hotel it might take you a second to actually find the restaurant but it's well worth the hunt.. the hotel also has around 300 rooms so if you're staying here, you'd be crazy to pass this pace up. We did the tasting menu experience to see what this place was about. To our surprise the chef pushed our palate to newer heights. Flavors we never thought could work together such as strawberry, raspberry and salmon matched up so well that the chef fully had my attention at that point.the black cod was arguably the best I've had if not top 2 fish dishes that I can think of. The tortellini came in a sauce emulsion that will not disappoint. We opted for the waygu upgrade on the steak portion of the course. The only thing that I could remotely complain about is the fennel seed in the bread lol. I'd go with some rosemary as a substitute but I wouldn't take it as a complaint because there is so much to rave about in the experience. In the reviews this place was compared to the likes of French laundry so I was a bit leery on the pricing because I didn't see anything to guesstimate the ball park but to my surprise this place was way more affordable than I thought or what the quality suggests. I believe the chef is named chef Michael and brilliant is the only way I would describe him. I also want to add about the great service we were given by the entire staff checking on us but Rachel and Rachel were very helpful with explaining the dishes and wines on top of just being really cool people. 3 way tie for today's game ball between Rachel squared and chef Michael. Lastly I hope this place gets the recognition it deserves being that the views,food and service are second to none in the area. I wouldnt be surprised if this establishment receives a Michelin star sooner than later. From what I was told the majority if not all of the employees have experience in the bourgeois top of the line restaurants so you're basically getting the entire experience at a fraction of the price. I literally worked 16hrs in steel toes panicking if I was gonna miss my reservations so the relief that we made it and the entire experience gave me one of the best Monterey weekends for the books.

First course, Trio of Moro Bay Oysters, Hollandaise, Bacon Mignonette and Abolone

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8 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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Schooners Monterey

Schooners Monterey

4.0(2.1k reviews)
0.1 mi
•$$$

We made a reservation for this restaurant for my boyfriend's birthday lunch. This is located inside…read moreof the Monterey hotel and plaza. Service was great. We asked for an ocean view table and were happy that they had one available. We ordered raw oysters, focaccia, ceviche, and Monterey cioppino pot. I wish the menu stated that there was cheese on the focaccia since I don't eat cheese. Oysters were fresh. Our favorite was definitely the Monterey cioppino pot. It was incredibly flavorful and a good amount of seafood. Our least favorite was the ceviche. The sauce/juice just didn't match our tastebuds. The chips that came with it were delicious though! Overall, it was a pleasant experience. I would come back!

We started with the Clam Chowder bread bowl, Brussel Sprouts appetizer, and the Dungeness Crab Dip…read more All 3 were excellent. I love Brussel Sprouts and order it anytime I see it in a menu. This was one of the best I've had. I like that it was more on the shredded side so it could cook evenly. (I hate when places halve the sprouts, but then don't bake it through. These were cooked to perfection here.) The crab dip was amazing...it's the morning after as I'm typing this and my daughter is still raving about the crab dip. We all agreed that it was worthy of the price tag bc there was a good amount of real crab in it. We really enjoyed the taste and texture. We wished there were more of the garlic bread for dipping! We waited for the clam chowder bread bowl to arrive, and tore into it so we could use that to dip! For our meal, we ordered the Harvest Salad, Organic Half Chicken, Honey BBQ Ribs, Wagyu Burger, and took a mandarin coconut sherbet to go. We were all very happy with what we ordered.

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Schooners Monterey
Schooners Monterey
Schooners Monterey - View from the restaurant.. Get here early and watch the sunrise.

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View from the restaurant.. Get here early and watch the sunrise.

Coastal Kitchen Monterey - seafood - Updated June 2026

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