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    Maligne

    4.0 (191 reviews)
    Closed 3:30 pm - 7:30 PM
    Updated 2 weeks ago

    Maligne Photos

    MALIGNE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Classy
    Upscale
    Dogs allowed
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Maligne

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    Pretty incognito location.
    David B.

    The $25/person reservation fee gets returned to you shortly after you arrive so that's a decent way to begin. Food- family style portions. Delicious, very flavorful family style portions with "flare." The fish we ordered came with a small salad on top. Looked odd, was super tasty. Ambiance- if it's busy, it feels like a spacious almost cafeteria-esque room. "Unpretentious" blah blah blah doesn't really matter because the food was very very well done. Was amusing to see the Royale with Cheese on the menu. Got some Pulp Fiction vibes from that. From the outside, I'm not sure I'd be able to tell if it was a restaurant. They've redone the exterior but the only sign that they may serve food was the Michelin star designation. Overall, very excited to have tried a meal here. We split everything- dinner and dessert and they were happy to ensure if dishes were gluten free or not. **not sure what the name is supposed to convey but the food was great.

    Crudo
    Kikue H.

    Came back again because my mom enjoyed it so much the first time around, but unfortunately I don't think I'll be going back anytime soon. I want to start by saying, most of the food was really good. The crudo was as good as, if not better than last time, and the milk bread is such a comforting way to start off your meal. The royale is a wonderfully elevated cheeseburger with some good ass fries. The chocolate mousse was rich, but nothing heavy and the olive oil was a beautiful touch. But, I ordered the scallops and they were spoiled. Pretty basic food safety faux pas that I unfortunately felt later that night and the next morning. They came in an admittedly delicious and strong lobster jus so I couldn't really smell anything wrong, but as soon as I ate it I could taste the ammonia just burning in my throat and sinuses. I've never had that happen and couldn't place that taste right away so I ate a couple before I my mom tried them and told me what it was. I was able to explain what happened, send the dish back and they didn't charge us for it... but that's pretty much all we got in terms of compensation. They still charged for the dish I ordered in place of the bad scallops. Obviously, I understand things happen and people make mistakes. The wait staff of course apologized, but this felt like a pretty big, pretty serious mistake and I'm really shocked that such a high end restaurant with such a hefty price tag wouldn't offer even a scoop of free ice cream or something. Like could a girl get a ginger ale at least? To ease what was coming next? It just feels like paid a whole heck of a lot of money to eat spoiled seafood and get a pretty rough tummy ache. I'm just not loving that...

    Amy W.

    We came here on a Friday night, but early enough that it was not too crowded. Sarah was our server and she was wonderful. She suggested we order a few things to share, which turned out to be the right move. The table split their version of a seafood tower. I did not partake, but everyone else absolutely raved about it. We also ordered the milk bread, which comes out warm and is pure comfort, the polenta, and the swordfish. The swordfish was cooked a little under, which was interesting, and honestly it was perfection. The space itself is very cool, with an open kitchen and lots of wood throughout. It has a modern farmhouse vibe that feels warm and stylish at the same time. Overall, a great dinner and a place I would happily return to.

    Menu 8/2/25
    Shannon C.

    I booked Maligne after seeing it come up in my recommendations list for Monterey and I'm so glad I did! I came by after spending a day at the aquarium and nearly missed this place because it doesn't have a name out front, you just have to know/look for it. Since there was a reservation, I was seated pretty quickly although I did see a few people try to walk in and wait a bit. I ordered milk bread, smoked tomato salad, Octopus salad, and the pork belly donabe. The smoked tomato salad was absolutely delicious. It was just the right amount of acidity and sweetness. The octopus salad was really tender and flavorful. The highlight for me was the pork belly donabe. It was kind of cold and drizzling outside so this donabe was really comforting and warming. I would skip the milk bread next time! I had a great time dining here and I would definitely be back if I'm in the area!

    Milk Bread and Olive Oil - #crowdpleaser
    Guy C.

    We've been excited to try this place out for a while now and with our 25th wedding anniversary it felt apropos to break the ice. Netting out our experience, we really enjoyed it, the team there were friendly accommodating, ambience is boho warehouse and food was on the money. I felt based on the quality of the food and the attention to ingredients that the prices were fair but we were a tad disappointed seeing the evenings menu choices which were a mystery till we actually sat down. I left this review alone till I settled my thoughts, I absolutely understand why Michelin noticed this place, they are passionate and there simply isn't a dining experience in the Monterey area like it .. Its akin to finding a cool vibe restaurant in a downtown Manhattan, unapologetic, boutique, funky, eclectic, relaxed and buttoned up service and food execution The menu is split into small plates and large plates... I think they started off small and ended up getting feedback on portions so added larger sharable plates.. Problem is, its kind of confusing, it doesnt sit easily and as an example we hared the .. I cant help feel they have a few more turns of the ethos to do. We ended up with 2 small plates and a large plate.. - Milk bread, Seafood platter and the burger.. All were super, absolutely no complaints and we couldn't hit the deserts. Why the 1 star drop ? We checked the website and got excited about the menu only to find it was 100% different and 'just and example. OK, I love the idea of seasonal but I dont want to drop a deposit down for a table then turn up to a mystery menu without knowing what's on it. We sort of had our heart set on a few dishes and a desert and nothing was the same. So if they post a current menu then we will likely have this place on rotation but if its a mystery then we will likely skip it as the food was good but nor head and shoulders over some of our regulars and at least there we know what we will be paying for. I loved the vibe, the team and ethos but I dont love the mystery

    Crudo
    Andrew I.

    Planned a weekend getaway in Carmel and while researching spots for dinner Maligne had caught my eye. We stopped by and got the following: crudo (the fish was fresh, Italian style crudo for you olive oil lovers out there), broccolini (lacked flavor, love broccolini but this was bit of a let down), polenta (cheesy, the tossed veggies cut through the salt with the cheese and it pairs well. Solid dish), ribeye (no seasoning, just the steak and its sauce. The potatoes and onions on the side are a nice addition, but don't mask the lack of seasoning) and tiramisu (possibly the star of our night). The inside is intimate, we liked the open kitchen concept as well. Service is attentive. Overall, we had high expectations and unfortunately we left disappointed (taking into account on the Michelin guide and the price).

    Crudo
    Marilan L.

    We had booked our first trip to Monterey and while doing some research on places to check out, this restaurant came across my path. To make a reservation they do require a $25 dollar deposit per diner, which you get back when you either cancel at least 24hrs before your resy or when you show up for your reservation. The outside of the restaurant is modern and unsuspecting and we actually walked past it. Once in, you're greeted by contemporary set up with an exposed kitchen area so you're able to see the staff preparing your meal. We were seated and provided with a menu which our hostess did a wonderful job of explaining. The dishes are meant to be shared so it was suggested that we get aboit 4-5 between two people. We decided to order the Crudo, Wagu beef tartare, Calabrian chili lamb meatball, and the Smoked halibut. Because the food is served to order Please keep in mind the dishes are a la minute so it may take a bit of time for the dish to be served. The highlight of our meal was definitely the Wagu beef tartare. The beef was buttery and melted in your mouth. My boyfriend loved that they added capers which really helped to balance the dish. Maligne is definitely worth checking out if you're in the area. It lives up to all the praises it receives and I can't wait to come back.

    Dean M.

    Wow. Wow. Wow. In Seaside? Really? I felt like I was in New York. Los Angeles. San Francisco. Chicago. Miami. Simply fantastic. The service was impeccable, not overbearing but perfectly on point. The food exceeded expectations. Truly. From the lamb leg special to the cabbage and everything in between. The flavors, preparation, plating, all of it. Fabulous. Savory bites every single time. Just right. It felt like I was sitting inside of a friendly dining room, not too loud, but you could hear the laughter and the noise of those around you While still being able to focus on the conversation at your table. Look, I'm sure there's better food somewhere in the world. I'm sure there's a better environment somewhere. I'm sure there is more attentive service. You can probably find it. And into that, I wish you good luck. Truly. If you find the one or two places on earth that exceed this let me know where they are. I'll hop on a plane.

    Fish
    Judy D.

    Just visited for the first time. Fabulous dinner! I love the family style service so we got to try all the appetizers and entrees. Nice room. As there were 6 of us, we were in quiet corner. We'll be back. The Carpaccio, Polenta, oysters, milk bread, chicory salad and beet salad were fabulous first. For entrees were lamb, ribeye, fish scallops and burger. A+. My favorite desert was the poached meringue!! Omg!! And the chocolate mousse was great too. All in all an excellent evening.

    Tiramisu
    Michelle K.

    Wow. What can I say... Maligne was absolutely delicious. Loved the open kitchen concept and the dining area is cozy and chic. Everything we ordered was a must except the crudo, for the steep price you can pass. Everything else was pretty exceptional. A must try if you're in the Monterey area!

    Interior
    Jen N.

    Amazing food and experience! We were able to get a same day reservation (within the hour) and headed right over on a Saturday evening Once you enter, it is extremely smokey inside from the grill. Ambiance is very cosy We ordered: - Smoked paloma: great balance of flavor - Chicken parm: HUGE portion, but our least favorite of the 3 - Pork: SO good! Juicy and tender - Duck: he said it was delicious - Tiramisu: can't go wrong with dessert! It was your average tiramisu, nothing incredible Definitely on the more expensive side and more of a "treat yourself" or special occasion meal. Average age of the patrons dining was 50-60+. We felt like we received sub-par service because we were the youngest in the restaurant. The manager brought the table next to us free drinks and kept stopping to ask how everything was, perhaps they were friends. We couldn't even find our server the entire meal, hence the 4 stars

    Cream puff
    Evangeline E.

    Let me just say, I reserve the integrity of my one star reviews and my five star reviews. To get five from me, you need to have it all. Ambiance, service, exceptional food, and value and sure enough Maligne had it all. Came in here on a weeknight with my husband for my birthday. Servers were very attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable. The ambiance is mid century modern cozy aesthetic. We ordered the steak tartare, lamb, grilled polenta, and duck confit. Everything was fresh and I was truly blown away. I felt the prices were for how upscale it was was fair. As someone from the Bay Area, this is more value than Napa prices so I guess everything is relative. Our server insisted on dessert and gave us a cream puff on the house which was nice! It was flaky and delicious. We will certainly be back.

    Whole grilled branzino ($48) - tender, smoky, and quite possibly the best grilled fish I've ever had.  Star of our meal--get this!
    Vanessa O.

    Made a last minute reservation here for dinner on a Friday night, and we were pleasantly surprised that our meal was so good. Grilled whole branzino ($45) was the standout and possibly the best grilled fish I've ever had. Expertly smoked while hanging on a hook over an open flame, this fish was fall off the bone tender, and loaded with flavor (even though I think it was just chives, salt and lemon). Just beware if you sit near the cooking area (or maybe anywhere inside?)--your hair and jacket and child's stuffed animals will smell strongly of smoke. Fine for the hubby, but bothersome for me! Next time I'll leave my jacket in the car and wear my hair in a bun. My only critique on this dish is that there was nothing served with it (where's the starch?) while the short rib came with both salad and fries. Smoked short rib w/fries and a delicious salad ($58) - short rib was boneless (my only question to the waiter lol), tender, very rich and covered in chives. Fries were skinny, crispy and tasty, though I didn't get to eat much since my daughter loves some fries with her ketchup. The salad was simple, fresh and wonderful, covered in cheese. I don't usually order salads, but if this is separately on the menu I totally would. Overall solid, large entree with the 2 accompaniments, but still that branzino was the clear winner. Albacore crudo ($23) - 3 thick slices, smothered in more chives, as well as olive oil and capers. I love me some chives, though since it happened to completely cover 3 of our dishes, it made the menu seem very one note in flavor. We wanted to return on Sunday because the meal was surprisingly good, however they are closed on Sunday, so plan accordingly.

    Ribeye and French fries pearled onions

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    Delicious food and rare on the peninsula but great interiors. Cool vibe too. A must go

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    Page 2 of 5

    Ask the Community - Maligne

    Has anyone eaten breakfast here? I didn't see a breakfast menu.?

    They are not open for breakfast. Whoever posted the hours doesn't know the difference between a.m. and p.m.

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    The Lantern Room - Everything is yummy!

    The Lantern Room

    3.8(58 reviews)
    0.5 mi

    Came here to try the breakfast out with hubby on a Friday morning. The place was easy to find it's…read moreon the fourth floor of the hotel walk into it and then they will seat you. It is a beautiful very elongated restaurant fireplace close to the entrance and a big almost floor to ceiling windows to see every angle of the ocean. We were greeted and seated right away next to one of the big windows to overlook the ocean.They took our drink orders instantly gave us a menu also. when he came back after dropping the drinks off, he took our orders right away. My husband had the blueberry buttermilk, pancake super delicious and I got the continental breakfast, which is a little bit of everything, a croissant, fresh fruit with yoghurt and granola with jam and fresh butter. Everything was super tasty and it came out really fast too. We'll definitely come back for breakfast again on another day with the family. You can't beat the view from up there. they are touch pricier than normal breakfast places just know that.

    Stayed at the Monterey Beach Hotel and have been going to The Lantern Room for breakfast the past…read moretwo days - really pleased with options and prices for a hotel restaurant. Kids have had the All American, pancakes, French toast and I just ordered the mushroom scramble (it's listed as an omelet but I always ask for them to scramble it instead) and it was tasty and well-portioned. If you have status with Marriott they offer a "Bonvoy" breakfast my husband can't stop raving about - croissant, fruit and parfait. Perfect continental breakfast option! Service is attentive and friendly, glad to have this option while staying here.

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    The Lantern Room - IG @annette.chew

    IG @annette.chew

    The Lantern Room - IG @annette.chew

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    The Lantern Room - IG @annette.chew

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    Cella Restaurant & Bar - WILD STRIPED SEA BASS: CAULIFLOWER * TOKYO TURNIP * BROWN BUTTER * ALMOND * CAPER

    Cella Restaurant & Bar

    4.4(175 reviews)
    2.6 mi
    $$$

    While I can't speak to the restaurant normal operations I can speak to their event hosting. We held…read morea farewell brunch the morning after our wedding at this restaurant and it was fabulous! The staff were easy to work with in setting up the event and more than accommodating with the several dietary restrictions that we brought up given the size of the party that would be stopping by (roughly 80 or so). They had a wide variety of pastries, meats, and other desserts that's were all absolutely spectacular. And bother internal and external of the venue are absolutely beautiful. We had a nice sunny morning so most of our party were sitting outside in the wonderful patio space and everyone was raving about how good the food was.

    Cella Restaurant and Bar is a beautiful space in the heart of Monterey, with a warm interior and a…read morelovely back patio with heat lamps. Our server was very nice and attentive, but there was some unevenness in the courses due to a disconnect between what he described and what the kitchen actually delivered. For example, I mentioned that my partner has an aversion to cilantro, and in one course the kitchen actually replaced it entirely with chives, which was amazing. However, when our server came by, he mentioned they had put the cilantro on the side. In another dish, a full cilantro stalk came right on top of the plate. Not a huge deal since we could just pick it off, but it was a sign of inconsistency in service. We also ordered the cod dish, and when we mentioned we were avoiding undercooked proteins, our server said he would make sure it was cooked through, which confused me a bit since I believe cod is always fully cooked through. On to the food itself, we started with the plum lacquered duck kefta, which came out on two cinnamon sticks used as the skewers. These were absolutely fantastic, with the yogurt sauce acting as the perfect foil for the expertly seasoned duck and the cinnamon stick adding a subtle spice. The Moss Landing black cod was likewise delicious, with the cod cooked to a buttery and flaky texture, and it was paired with a sumptuous vanilla bean butter sauce over a bed of pepper and green bean panzanella that was out of this world. My only complaint was that for the steep price, the portion was quite small. The curried lamb shoulder was exceptional as well. It arrived with a striking presentation, encased in a three-quarter dome puff pastry shell filled with shredded lamb shoulder meat. It came with a side of some kind of fruit compote or chutney, though we were not given a detailed description of most dishes. This portion felt appropriate for the price and was the favorite of the night. We mentioned we were celebrating our wedding anniversary, and while we were not expecting anything over the top, we were a bit disappointed when we saw them bring out a dessert with a candle for what I assume was a birthday celebration at another table. For a restaurant of this caliber and at this price point, I have always experienced at least some sort of gesture, even if just a small card or message at the table. Overall, we had a pleasant evening, but it is not somewhere we would return to based on the uneven service and the mismatch between price and portions.

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    Cella Restaurant & Bar - Kitchen

    Kitchen

    Cella Restaurant & Bar - GRILLED SPANISH OCTOPUS: ARTICHOKE * GIGANTÉ BEAN * OLIVE * ALMOND *ROMESCO

    GRILLED SPANISH OCTOPUS: ARTICHOKE * GIGANTÉ BEAN * OLIVE * ALMOND *ROMESCO

    Cella Restaurant & Bar - Sea bass

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    Sea bass

    Maligne - newamerican - Updated August 2026

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