It's the hour of the night... Came here to get drinks after dinner and didn't expect this place to have affordable drinks judging from the interior. Every cocktail was around ($11-$15). It's got that whimsical and jazzy bar feel with low lit seating inside, and a fire pit with lots of tables outside --- perfect for larger groups. Their menu is fun to look at and still have the classic drinks you'd get at the bar like Moscow mule and old fashioned, but with their own twist. I opted for the Modern Love with mezcal, amaro, passionfruit, and lime. Let's just say I was knocked outttt after sipping that...quite strong with no lime to be found but it was still a bit fruity. My boyfriend got the Cali Old Fashioned, which you can definitely taste the whiskey and bitters (with a whisper of citrus --- heavy on the whisper). Really cool spot and I'd love to come back! Had a fun time. read more

Pearl Hour - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Monterey, California

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I really like the vibe of this place. It's been open for about 7 years and I've frequented at least once a year since then. They have always been consistent with their drinks and great customer service. I'm really happy they survived through the pandemic and are still operating in the 831. I really think Monterey needed a fresh vibe like Pearl Hour. So far my favorite drinks have been the modern love and after dark. The drink menu changes from time to time but the craftsmanship remains. read more

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Stopped in for Sunday jazz. $10 cover. Pretty nice Boulevardier and music was very good. If I lived in Monterey I'd be in there most Sundays. read more

Pearl Hour - Sunday jazz night - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Monterey, California

We came early on a weeknight for happy hour and glad we did. Snagged seats easily, and kept to the the classic Mai Tai and the Strong Island; both perfectly balanced, strong but smooth. We thought the "special cocktails" wasn't as appealing, according to the descriptions. The vibe is spot-on: low-key lighting, comfy seating, bar-meets-lounge feel without the loud energy. Super inclusive and welcoming; staff genuinely makes everyone feel at home. Music at conversation level, zero shouting required. Short walk from the wharf, perfect pre-dinner stop. We skipped the super floral specialty cocktails (not our thing), but the classics are executed flawlessly. Already planning the next visit! read more

Cute spot with tons of potential. Their drinks are so-so but they lack basic bar staples. No cranberry juice? Olives soaked in vermouth- disgusting. I've been told before that they have no limes?! Occasionally they do but it's just ridiculous. It's a bummer because it has an amazing outdoor area. read more

Pearl Hour is one of our favorite places to visit when staying in Monterey! The bartenders were super fun to talk with and the drinks were very yum! I love the vibes in this bar. It is nice to relax on the sofa and chat while drinking a wonderful cocktail! We enjoyed sitting outside as wel! The music is always nice and overall, it is worth the experience! Cant wait to visit again! read more

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Excellent bar with a great personality. This is a must stop when in the area. We got there early in the evening so we were able to enjoy a seat and talking. It does get busier in the evening so plan accordingly. Drinks are delicious! you really can't go wrong with any of them! read more

Pearl Hour - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Monterey, California

We came for the jazz in the evening and it was very enjoyable. We will be back. It's a great space also.

We didn't actually drink at Pearl Hour, so if you're looking for an informative review, feel free to move on (the four-star rating is just to match the bar's current average). If you're a cop, though, please keep reading. We took a big family trip to Monterey a couple weeks ago, and after two days of wrangling both children and adults, my husband and I were eager for a drink. Turns out Monterey has limited options post-bedtime on a Sunday night, but we were happy to find Pearl Hour. When it comes to interesting cocktails, at least, this seems to be the only game in town. The bar was cute, with live music and an inviting, loungey atmosphere. It was quiet at 9:45 on a Sunday, and we went right up to the bar to order our drinks. The bartender informed us that there would be a $10 cover for the music, and we readily accepted this while we studied the menu. The cocktails sounded great, and we were starting to really look forward to them when the bartender asked for our IDs. I'm 39 years old, a full adult older than legal drinking age, but I take no issue with being carded. I handed over my driver's license without a second thought. I was stunned when the bartender asked if I had any other identification--apparently, my license expired in January. This was news to me, and I all but begged him to accept my expired license, or a scan of my passport, or the obvious fact that I was an almost-40-year-old mom who at that moment would have paid $100 for a cocktail (though let the record show, I stopped short of attempting bribery). None of this moved the bartender. He was so steadfast I almost think he suspected a sting. I have to wonder what business or societal purpose is served by denying two middle-aged parents much-needed alcohol because one of them has a recently expired license. That said, this was certainly my fault, and as my husband noted, during an extended facepalm, it was better to find out at a bar than an airport. We failed to get a drink that night (to add insult to injury, our hotel bar closed during this brief outing), but I did renew my license when I got home. Next time we're in Monterey, we will get a drink at Pearl Hour. I'll bring my social security card and utility bill just in case. read more

Pure vibes! Cover on drag nights. Bring your friends no matter how you identify and just have a good time. The crowd was super cool and positive! Extensive drink list and good bartenders. read more

Pearl Hour - Mars Stardust - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Monterey, California

We got there and there was a live band playing which was cool we waited about 30 minutes at the bar to get drinks which was crazy bc it was not busy. Come to find out after we pay that they charge $10 per person for the live music which they do not tell you before paying they just charge you. Absolutely ridiculous, we sat outside and was not inside for the band at all would not have even stayed had we know we had to pay. read more

Great ambiance and drinks here. I had the American Psycho and he had the Cherry Coke Float. Both very good. The bartender was kind and personable. They have an outdoor area as well, and live music on Sunday and Wednesday nights. Definitely check it out. read more

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With so little options in Monterey open late, we ended up here on a Saturday night, no cover charge. The ambience wasn't bad, cute lighting, decor, and furnishings, both inside and in the outdoor patio, the crowd mainly twenty and thirty somethings. Music was fine, hip hop playing through the speakers, nothing too special. We did see a piano in the stage area, not in use during our visit, but looks like maybe they have live music or hold other special events here. The service was so-so, not too long of a wait, but bartenders also not so attentive or efficient in helping guests. On top of that, the lemon drop we ordered wasn't great, not just weak in alcohol, but the flavor not good either. "It was all a dream" was more like a dream about ginger... there was a lot inside, tasted like medicine. I don't have high expectations, and the setting was lovely. But we just weren't feeling the overall vibe of the place, the drinks were that much of a turnoff that the atmosphere could not save us from wanting to leave. Who knows, maybe they have better stuff on their menu or perhaps our botched cocktails were just a fluke, but we didn't stay long to find out. read more

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Pearl hour is a cute bar known for hosting a variety of intimate events from jazz nights to burlesque. This is a comfortable and inclusive space that works hard to make everyone feel welcome. The speciality cocktails are unique compared to other local bars "special margaritas" or sub for other "special" cocktail. The speciality cocktails here are higher craft and they occasionally use locally foraged ingredients which is really cool. If you're looking to just hang out with friends and enjoy some beers, they have simple options to choose from which is appreciated. Sometimes, you just don't want a double hopped imperial IPA. You want a lager and you want to chill. And you can do that here. In terms of food, there are some light snacks but don't expect dinner. I personally like that because the location doesn't smell like greasy pub food while you're sipping and enjoying a beautifully nuanced cocktail. Elise was running the bar almost completely by themselves and the hustle was impressive. The only reason this place doesn't get full marks is because sometimes your cocktail will be cleared from your table before you're done with it. Maybe I'm being a bit too finicky here but it irks me when you're not QUITE done with your drink and the busser comes by and takes your "nearly" empty glasses without asking. Also, my ending bill had an error that I needed to reach out for after the fact to have corrected, which Pearl Hour gladly did. Overall, I'll definitely return because there aren't many places like this in the Monterey peninsula. read more

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This is my fourth time here as a local. I like the place, the atmosphere, the lights, and the live music. Just so you know, they charge you $10 per person (for live music). We paid $30 for three people, and it's included on your bill. That's the first negative point. The second, and most important, is the poor service at the bar, especially the guy wearing a beanie. He doesn't care his job. He's rude in the way he speaks to you We definitely wouldn't come back here. read more

In Monterey for a couple days and had to stop by this little diamond in the sea! Immediately walking in noticing the decor and funky vibe of the space, approaching the back bar it's a gorgeous sight with additive free tequilas and a mezcal selection that had me feeling like a kid on Christmas morning! Bar staff was so welcoming and educated making suggestions and recommendations allowing me to taste some stuff I've never tried, overall just exceptional service and vibes as soon as you walk into this groovy bar! My first time going to Monterey and this bar is the reason I'll be back! read more

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Went for my sister's birthday with two other people, so it was 4 of us. It was highly recommended by our waiter at the Sardine factory, and based on the excellent service we got at the restaurant, we were excited to go to this bar.The place was beautiful and not busy at all which was kinda nice. I asked the bartender if they had any special birthday cocktails they could make (was not asking for a free drink) and she just stared at me and said NO! Again, I was not asking for a free drink, I simply was hoping they could make a nice pretty looking drink for my sister since it was her birthday. Then a different bartender (Amanda) joined and while my cousin and I were waiting for our drinks, Amanda kept asking us to pay. We told her we had already ordered from the other bartender but Amanda was adamant about us giving her a credit card that instant, which we did even though she made us feel very uncomfortable. On the receipt , she underlined and made a mark next to the highest tip option on the merchant copy of the receipt , which I made sure not to give her. Instead, I filled out the total on the customer copy and gave her that one.Once we got our drinks we sat outside where the ambiance was beautiful. We saw Amanda walking around with small candles on a tray which she was putting on the tables and we wanted one. I asked if we could have one and Amanda said, "oh, you want a tray?" At this point I was super annoyed and couldn't wait to finish our drinks and leave but I told her that we obviously wanted a candle and not her tray. The drinks were ok. Ambiance was beautiful. Service and staff (particularly Amanda) was horrible, so never again. read more

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Great drinks, excellent service, awesome environment. Our bartender Dannie was chill, approachable, and gave great tips on popular drinks. I would highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Monterey read more

So I love that they have cheez-it lol, the drinks are good but you have to acknowledge that this place is a little bit on the bougie side, so the drinks are expensive and you'll get more ice than liquor lol. But again the drinks are tasty, I love the decor and they weigh that they design it after Carbones. It's more of a chill spot. They have nice plans and nice couch sitting area in their patio is really pretty. The service can be a little tricky at times. I feel like they're not very warm Welcoming till you get to like talk to them and kinda break them in.. they do have live music and sometimes they do have a cover charge. I came in on a Tuesday and they had jazz with no cover charge. Hanged out in the bar area and then set outside for a while. Pearl hour is located right on Lighthouse, The parking is on street parking.. I have not had any of their food but I come here usually for drinks. read more

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The vibe is perfect. the jazz on a Sunday is my favorite. I had such a great solo experience, I brought my cousins and they enjoyed the area and show as well. I'm always recommending my friends to check it out. the mezcal drinks are fire but only if you like something strong! read more

Great drinks! Came here with my friends and had an amazing time. Bartender was attentive and helpful when deciding what to order. We went on a Thursday and which it was not so crowded. There was also like music playing from a local DJ. The ambience was great. Definitely my type of vibe, as it offered a modern & hipster twist. read more

Pearl Hour - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Monterey, California

Went here with a bunch of friends and family. They had a band playing live music. The place was packed with nowhere to sit inside. The cover charge was $15 per person. I tried a couple of drinks and they were delicious. I can't remember what they were at the moment... They have an outdoor patio area with a backyard feel. I spent most of my time out there and I had a blast. read more

A true bar, they have limited fare...meaning, nuts and cheez its. But in truth, it's nice to find a place that's not trying to be too many things at one time. The service is lovely. Bartender attentive. And everyone is quite kind and friendly. Ambiance is fun and a bit eclectic, particularly on drag show nights. Definitely a place to return to, over and over again. read more

Went to downtown Monterey for the night and stumbled upon this super cute bar! Pearl Hour has delicious cocktails and a cute and romantic vibe. Perfect for grabbing a drink or two with friends, I'd definitely come back. I ordered the "It Was All a Dream" one of their most popular cocktails and it tasted like a citrusy spritzer, which made it easy to drink. The modern love was nice and smoky with guava. Prices are a little steep, especially for Monterey, but if you're looking for a classy bar with a live band, definitely come by. read more

Pearl Hour - It was all a dream Modern Love - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Monterey, California

We had a wedding after party David and Katie were flexible and fantastic, I would recommend this place a thousand times over fantastic service. If you ever have private event needs book this place read more

Such a fun vibe! Lemon drops were delicious. Check out the burlesque show, it was fun!

If I could give 0 stars I would. Bar is nice, jazz band was good. But very unfriendly and rude bartender and a ridiculously overpriced non-alcoholic drink. My wife didn't want ice in her drink, so the waiter removed the ice, which left less than 1/3 of her drink in the glass. Do not support this business unless they change the (male) bartender. read more

This is the best chill place to have a drink in the town! The staff immediately welcomed and helped with orders. The mixed drinks the other person in the party had were good. The place is just a chill laid back place great for catching up over drinks. The couches or out back patio are great for a date night. read more

This place was jam packed on a Saturday night but I really liked it here. The ambiance is awesome and quirky and on a normal night, I bet there's plenty of space to be comfortable and relax with a tasty cocktail in hand. The bar list was fun and though we just stuck to old fashioneds, they were made perfectly. I would love to go back here. read more

Came here with my BF to have a quick drink and listened to live music. Drinks was ok, service was good and music was fun

Amazing bar that makes me envious of the locals who can experience this on a frequent basis. Interior is nice and moody but the outside back is beautiful. Came during happy hour and got to try their paloma and "bees knees" and it was two of the best drinks i've ever had and shoutout to the bartender for letting me know how to try and make it myself! read more

Best craft cocktails in the Monterey Peninsula. Born and raised in PG, this bar is such a gem. Per some of the reviews regarding the "wait" for drinks, if you come in when it's busy, the cocktails take time. Drinks are creative, balanced and made with care. The bartenders are great at providing recommendations, too. I live in LA now and love to try craft cocktails locally and whenever I travel - this place measures up! read more

The bar itself is stylish and the jazz band was good BUT there are two BIG issues with this bar. 1) The male bartender was very rude and 2) the cocktails are without sophistication and nuance yet vastly overpriced. If you only offer a small selection of cocktails (and no food etc), your cocktails should stand out, unfortunately at Pearl Hour they are just mediocre. Although this place has potential, I will not return. read more

Perfectly executed. Pearl hour exists at the crossroads of New York elegance and Bay Area laid back. Visiting from San Francisco looking for a romantic get away, I could not have stumbled across a better spot to spend all of my hard earned money. Death & co level cocktails, beautiful culture, friendly staff, and incredible ambiance that really transports you into a world of indulgence. Katie, the owner, has showcased well her botanist background in this space. Driving it all home, this is just a well crafted work of art and a hidden gem that I will surely revisit the next time I need some fresh air. read more

Pearl Hour - Stardust cocktail is worth every penny. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Monterey, California

Great drinks with unique twists. Awesome fireplace and lounge area. Service was good. The drinks were batched but still very good.

Pearl hour is a cute bar with delicious drinks & the playlist was really good tonight. I'm excited to come back for one of their drag events eventually! The bar tenders were attentive even when we went to sit on the couch which was nice. read more

Pearl Hour - Cute abalone lamp - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Monterey, California

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Wow. My first time here and I was delighted! It's all table service or bar service. Outside fire pit was fantastic as well as the large variety of drinks to choose from. I'll definitely be back. Thanks for a great experience. read more

Pearl Hour - Spirit works rye whisky from sonoma county. Delicious. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Monterey, California

A review for BIPOC folks. My first experience here was amazing as I was introduced by a friend that frequents this bar. I could not wait to recommend this place to a friend! We came in on a busy Sunday, so I knew to expect the wait, etc. After sitting in the patio for about 15 minutes, I finally went to the bar to ask for a menu and whether it was best to order from the bartender or patio? She was too busy to help. Understandably so! We sat at the patio for another 5 minutes. At this point it's been 20 minutes and we still haven't heard from anyone. Two young ladies have a seat at the patio and they get acknowledged and their drink orders taken. After taking there order, the young man working the patio finally approaches us and takes our order. He then acknowledges a new table of three folks to which he offers water to and let's them know about the wait. After 10 minutes he comes back to ask again, what our drink orders where!? At this point, I'll admit we where a little upset but my friend and I hadn't seen each other in so long that we chose to make the best of this experience and brush it off. As someone that has worked in hospitality for many years, please make sure all your guests feel seen. It's a terrible feeling we wouldn't want others to experience at your beautiful establishment. read more

Just a chill low end bar, it's pretty much the lite and cheap version of The Abbey in West Hollywood.Everyone was so uptight--the lady and the bartender just kept brushing us off like he was deaf, it was not even that loud and it was before band time. It's not queer friendly and it does not take 10minutes to brew an herbal tea. This place is just a joke--filled with fake Prada to nada people. The bartenders are acting like it's Beverly Hills, when it's clearly Monterey. read more

Awesome Black Band tonight but what through off the whole experience was a "cover charge" that is not posted on their website for tonight and as 1 of the only 5 black people in there, it felt real profile-ish. We had already been seated for an hour and when we went to the bar, "Mars" (the manager- Asian dude with glasses in case he gave me a false name) told me in order to a drink I had to pay a $10 cover charge that is not posted on the website, not posted inside, or anything. 2 wyt women sat beside me at the bar and I heard the entire conversation, in which did not include a cover charge. I asked if they were charge, they said no. Well, I asked the manager about it and he asked me to leave. To the 10 black people in Monterey, don't go there. Unless you want to know what it felt like to live during the Civil Rights Era. read more