The Beerded Bean

257

148

6 years ago

This review is strictly on the coffee and the ambiance and customer service. Nice to see cute places pop up in salinas granted I only really come to town when it is visiting family. I came here a few weeks ago and the back again earlier today. Around 4-5pm it wasn't super busy both times I went. Ambiance is chill with lots of seating and the decor was modern and very appealing. The first time I went it I asked what was good and then was asked by the barista how I liked my coffee. I like my coffee all kinds of ways but I was in the mood for something sweeter so he recommended a vanilla latte. It was so good! I was so surprised. When I went back earlier today I got a hazelnut latte and my cousin got the Mexican mocha. We both loved our coffee. I liked how you can still taste the espresso even though we got "sweeter" drinks. I don't think it's all that pricey it's competitive with Starbucks and even coffee spots out in Sacramento. The employees were all very nice and hospitable. They also had good recommendations and you could tell they know what they are talking about. This place is definitely now on my list for every-time I come to town to visit. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Jeff M.

700

3 years ago

I got stuck in Salinas one day and luckily found this nice coffee shop. The space is good to do a little work in with a laptop or reading a book. The coffee and cookie I got were decent. Not amazing, but hey, it's Salinas. I thought the surrounding area was pretty nice. Great small town vibes and fun to walk around when your car breaks down in Salinas. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Selene C.

3 years ago

Great drinks, great music, but I'll give the baristas/cashiers a tip. If they smile, they might get a tip. They need to smile and be more friendly. It would make it more pleasant if they gave you a smile with your drink. Hopefully they hire friendly people later on. Anyways other than that, it's ab awesome place. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 2

Oh no 1

Patricia P.

3 years ago

I was so shocked that a matcha latte ended up being almost $9 what! Everything is an up charge because apparently there's is unsweetened. The first and last time here. Luckily I was only there because I was passing by salinas not even in the Bay Area where I'm from I pay that much for a matcha latte read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 1

Lorisa R.

261

264

4 years ago

I know.... I know.... I'm a bougie coffee drinker and I am very picky. With that said, the Mexican Mocha was delicious! Yes. I will return. The ambiance was great. The staff were very nice and professional. I will be back! read more

The Beerded Bean - The coffee bar - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Salinas, California

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Yolanda R.

3 years ago

Friendly staff, great coffee, tea & bakery options. Atmosphere is great, quiet enough to do homework or have a business meeting. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Alexis F.

184

7 years ago

Rollick's was here before and they suddenly went downhill ending up with a closed shop. I was wondering what would take their place and this place is perfect for it. It's something that we definitely needed in Salinas. Hipster but not over the top. Pricing is reasonable. A major plus is they don't charge extra for almond milk/soy milk; which most places do charge extra. My only suggestions would be to sell chai lattes (iced or hot) and green tea lattes (iced or hot)! Maybe even some breakfast or brunch sandwiches. That would be great! Otherwise, place is great and drinks are delicious. Staff is wonderful. Btw, they give paper straws!! read more

The Beerded Bean - Cookies N Cream. No whip. Almond milk. And paper straw!!! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Salinas, California

Helpful 3

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Nicole P.

196

300

5 years ago

Coffee was okay. Sometimes it's great, sometimes it's not. Was assisted by female employees this last time. Kinda tasted like the same coffee and filter were used a second time and that's what was served to me, but it was hot. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Agnes D.

879

4668

7 years ago

Great ambiance for a coffee/tea shop. And the best thing is they have a live band! The lady singer sounded like she was singing her originals... it was very nice and mellow. read more

The Beerded Bean - Interior - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Salinas, California

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Sydney P.

458

671

5 years ago

Yay, an option other than the big green monster. Downtown Salinas, smooth coffee-perfect iced latte and mocha got the Mr and his sweet tooth. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Darroll L.

326

2503

7 years ago

Wonderful live music, great coffee, and beer to come!!!! The customer service is very pleasant, prices are very reasonable, atmosphere is very cozy and comfortable. This place is a wonderful addition to Salinas. It will serve as a perfect place to reflect and recharge. read more

The Beerded Bean - Band area and cashier. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Salinas, California

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Vivian R.

5 years ago

They have the best Dulce Latte! So glad I found this place. Will continue to support this coffee shop for my morning coffee Worth the stop every day! Quality Coffee! Excellent Service! read more

The Beerded Bean - Dulce Latte The Best! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Salinas, California

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Jennefer V.

2 years ago

It was closed on a Thursday morning and afternoon. The hours of operation said Wednesday to Friday 7 am to 3 pm.

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Barry H.

289

968

7 years ago

Woke up in the morning craving coffee. Not familiar with the area, we asked around and were pointed towards The Beerded Bean. Nice joint in downtown Salinas, good vibe and friendly service. I had the White Mocha Coffee (topped with whipped cream) as well as a slice of Lemon Poppyseed Pound Cake. Definitely hit the spot and will happily return when visiting Salinas in the future. read more

The Beerded Bean - Lemon Poppyseed Pound Cake - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Salinas, California

The Beerded Bean - White Mocha Coffe topped with whipped cream. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Salinas, California

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Cass A.

5 years ago

Love it there ! Ppl are great Drinks are great !! Recommend for anyone who loves coffee and beer read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Jose G.

3 years ago

Coffee is great! Cute little place with a good amount of sitting. Service is good. Price is on the higher end but coffee is worth the price

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Leticia S.

121

306

7 years ago

Let me just say I simply love this coffee. The first time I ever had it was last year during farmers market at Natividad. (Miss it this year) read more

The Beerded Bean - Carrot muffin & soy latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Salinas, California

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Ally M.

2 years ago

if you need coffee at convenience go elsewhere, parking is scarcely available and you spend minutes trying to scavenge for parking at a decent distance. happens every time at different hours, i gave up on this place lol read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 1

Tonia C.

163

955

7 years ago

Great service and nice atmosphere. I'm glad they didn't just have the high top tables that all the new hip spots are doing. I happened to be there when the live music was playing and I'm glad they're supporting live local music. I'm a huge fan of local music. I had the medium roast of the day and it was very good. I came back for more and tried a cappucino and it was equally delicious. The owners/staff are friendly and have fun on the job. That creates a friendly atmosphere. Everyone seemed to be enjoying it. I will add more detail as I learn but it's my first time posting first. I will come back a lot. I've been waiting for a coffee spot in my 'hood after Rollicks closed. read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

L J.

4 years ago

Checked out their new location in Carmel. Couldn't seem to review for Carmel so I'll post here. Got the Lemon Spring Cold Brew with whole milk and it was AMAZING! Great vibes, cool decor, nice staff. We will be back read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Aaron P.

134

255

578

7 years ago

I've been buying beans from Eric at the MPC Farmer's Market for a bit now and always hoped his vision for a shop where I work in Salinas would come true. The beans are always perfectly roasted and the cold brew coffee bottles were always a nice treat. I was honestly worried though how it would all scale into a big retail space where you have to worry about employees executing to your standards and overhead. I like giving places a couple of months to settle in before sending off a review, but The Beerded Bean seems to have settled in quite nice! The crew working is always so friendly, even early in the morning and the coffee is spot on. Even the one time the espresso pours weren't coming out perfect, the girl behind the bar apologized but explained that she wanted the drink to be just perfect instead of using 'weak' shots. Could have easily just poured the shots in and sent me on my way, but I appreciated that. I'm not much of a specialty coffee drinker, I prefer just black, but my Mexican mocha was bomb. I highly recommend the house Chiapas Mexico medium roast. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Brandon L.

3 years ago

At first glance you could mistake this as a speakeasy from the prohibition era. It certainly has the quiet murmur coursing through it like nobody is supposed to know it is here. The coffee is plenty strong, the staff is plenty attentive, and the lighting is plenty dim. They are both a cafe and beer tap, so best of both worlds. Props for knowing what a red-eye is. :) They have live music too! Happy noshing, thanks! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Trinidad G.

2 years ago

Not sure what was the norm environment but let's say I would not bring a new Date.Your taste buds are free to tryout the many different flavors. If you're not interested in being educated about the types of brew that you may never have heard about. That's not happening here it feels more like a click hangout. You could have been served by a Robot and it would have been much warmer communication between us. Can't not say that can be pricey in my experience. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 1

A R.

4 years ago

Incredible atmosphere with lovely people to help. Service is great and the music is on point. This is a fantastic place to get some work done or meet some friends. One of my favorite places to be. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Dianna M.

Elite 26 All-Star

457

872

4845

6 years ago

Really good coffee! Roasted to perfection and never bitter or burnt tasting. Come on Monterey County let's show our support to these incredible small businesses and bid corporate conglomerations a sweet farewell. Small business folks actually care about providing excellent product and service. When you're here, pick up a couple of pounds to go. Your coffee maker will be thrilled. Enjoy. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Larissa R.

264

186

920

6 years ago

I absolutely loved the decor of the place, lots of natural woods and greens. The concept is really great, some people like to perk up with some coffee while some like to wind down with some beer (maybe even some tea and coffee too if that's you). I ordered a large caramel macchiato ($5.50) and my sister ordered a small nutella frappe ($5.25). As much as I wanted to love this place the coffee came with a really weird bitter aftertaste, but not in the typical espresso kind of way more like cleaning solution. Either I got a bad batch or they just have very peculiar tasting coffee. The nutella frappe tasted nothing like nutella and again had that off aftertaste as well. The price is typical for a typical ~instagrammable~ small business café but it was very underwhelming and truthfully disappointing. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 1

Elizabeth C.

4 years ago

Great coffee... unfortunately bad service. Doesn't feel welcoming, staff don't care to ask you what you want to order...

Helpful 3

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 1

Libin D.

157

4 years ago

Great ambiance. Wish they stayed as a coffee shop for a bit later in the evenings!

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Nicole D.

3 years ago

Not sure if this operates as a bar at night and coffee shop during the day, but I came on a Sunday morning, and in the first thing I smelled was bathroom cleaner, like the smell of a college bar the morning after. That being said, the place was not clean, floors and tables were very grimy, old spills apparent on the floors and seats. I ordered a simple latte, and it took them at least 15 minutes to make, because staff was just slow and chatting to themselves. I also think they forgot my drink at first, because I had to remind them. I was driving through town and wanted to stop somewhere local, rather than one of the dozens of other chains in the area. I thought I'd give this place a chance, but unfortunately thoroughly disappointed. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 2

Cindy R.

151

4 years ago

Reading some of these 1 star reviews I can't help but wonder what crawled into those peoples undergarments and died. To make them feel the way they did. If a barista is rude to you you 100% deserve that treatment. I've been to this establishment numerous times during different hours of the day and not ONCE have I seen the baristas be rude to any customers or myself. I could be because of the fact that if something is making me miserable I leave it at the door and don't dump it on people who are just trying to do their job. If youre cranky because you haven't had caffeine it's not up to the barista to rub your back and make you feel better Their job is literally to take your order and make your coffee and get your miserable ass out of the way for the next person. All those people who left one star reviews should feel ashamed of themselves for spewing their bad attitudes to the staff and onto Yelp. Truly I feel embarrassed for those folks The beerded bean is a come as you are type of place that accepts people of all walks of life. The environment is tranquil and there's plenty of space to grab a table and work on stuff. The baristas and managers are kind and their energy really feeds into to pleasantness of the environment weather it be a morning chai or a mid day beer the beerded beans staff is always pleasant their chais are always delicious and it's definitely a place I'll continue to go to. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 5

Oh no 0

Back

Page 2 of 5

210 Main St
Salinas, CA 93901
Directions
(831) 202-0966
Call Now

Full menu

Hours

What time does The Beerded Bean open?

The Beerded Bean opens at 6:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.The Beerded Bean opens at 8:00 AM on Saturday and Sunday.

What time does The Beerded Bean close?

The Beerded Bean closes at 9:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday.The Beerded Bean closes at 11:00 PM on Friday.The Beerded Bean closes at 5:00 PM on Sunday.

Mon-Thu 6:00 AM - 9:00 PMFri 6:00 AM - 11:00 PMSat 8:00 AM - 9:00 PMSun 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Payment methods

Does The Beerded Bean take credit cards?

Yes, The Beerded Bean takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does The Beerded Bean serve alcohol?

Yes, The Beerded Bean serves alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does The Beerded Bean allow dogs?

Yes, The Beerded Bean allows dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does The Beerded Bean have outdoor seating?

Yes, The Beerded Bean has outdoor seating options.

Does The Beerded Bean have parking?

Yes, The Beerded Bean has parking options. Garage Parking, Street Parking, Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Is The Beerded Bean wheelchair accessible?

Yes, The Beerded Bean is wheelchair accessible.

Does The Beerded Bean have free WiFi?

Yes, The Beerded Bean has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

We are at the following Farmers Markets through out the week : Monday = Pacific Grove Wednesday = Natividad Medical Center Thursday = Soledad Friday = Monterey Peninsula College Saturday = Downtown Salinas Sunday = Marina ( Grocery outlet shopping center )

Ask the Community - The Beerded Bean

Is it a work friendly environment?

Yes! Free wi-fi and lots of seating. Other people are working around you. Occasionally the music can be loud but for the most part, a great place to get work done.

View 3 more answers

Is this establishment dog friendly?

Yes!

Are kids allowed during the day?

Yes.

View 1 more answer

Are dogs allowed?

Yeah! Was just in a few days ago and saw 2 people with dogs on leashes! Pretty laid back staff. Everyone around didn't care at all either.

Outside food allowed?

Yes

When do they have shows/performances?

Try Fridays and Saturdays from 7-9 pm but follow their Instagram to know for sure. @thebeerdedb ean

Anyone know if they sell beer yet?

They do NOW!!!!

View 4 more answers

View All 9 Questions

You might also consider

Brewjee Coffee

3.9

(83 reviews)

0.1 mi

Brewjee Coffee is where you can find decadent coffee and matcha drinks. They have a variety of…read moresyrups and foam tops to create unique drinks. This is definitely not a place you'd go to for simple espresso drinks. We were content with our drinks: Curious George (mocha with banana cold foam), For the Girls (cold brew with strawberry cold foam), and Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso. The flavors came out as expected, but it is was on the sweeter side. The drinks here are on the pricier side. Each of our 16 oz drinks were over $10 after tax and tip. They offer larger cups too around 24oz, similar to a Venti from Starbucks. Given the price only, it's hard for me to justify repeat visits. The store itself is tiny. There is no room for you to sit down and enjoy your drink. The staff were great. They were kind and very attentive despite being very busy when we went. I'd only come if I'm craving their specialty drinks.

For quality and originality of drinks definitely would give 5/5. No issues here whatsoever. I've…read moreonly done their specialty iced drinks and have yet to try a normal brew coffee. Pricing 3/5 stars for two medium drinks it cost $19 and to be quite frank, they pour a ton of ice! Literally 1/2 the cup and even sometimes, 3/4 of the cup will be with ice. This GREATLY reduces how much of the drink you are actually receiving. What's even more comical is if you ask for light ice they CHARGE you ¢50 more per drink the reasoning is "we are putting more milk and product". Come on, in all honesty you guys are just being stingy af. You already put very little product for these overpriced drinks, that do taste good, not gonna lie. This makes me only wanna come here maybe 1x a month as instead of more often. I understand that everything is expensive but overcharging your customers and trying to get over on them by creating the illusion that they are receiving large amounts that is magnified from the amount of ice you put is disappointing.

Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

See all

Viva Espresso Organics Coffee

This is definitely a go to spot for me no matter what season. I love their old fashion donuts with…read morea double cubanito. Whether you like sweet drinks or not you'll definitely find something you like. The service is pretty quick for the most part. While you wait they have beautiful art you can admire and tons of seats to chill.

They say they're organic but having just delivered half&half... yes, it's made by Clover but not…read moreorganic... OVERALL: Kind of reminds me of the local Suju's in Fremont (where I'm from), as their local go to coffee in Salinas that's more concentrated in espresso complexity. CUBANITO: Their specialty! Only 8oz with 3 shots of espresso, turbinado sugar, and milk...can modify level of sweetness. However person for which this drink was for states it's still overly sweet. CARAMEL Macchiato: Made me sad that it wasn't authentic as milk should be first then the shots of espresso so there's two layers (that's why I secretly wanted this drink). Then a drizzle of caramel. Tastes like a caramel macchiato, nonetheless. ***overall, their coffee is good with a smooth flavor profile and no bitter undertones or after taste, equating to high quality beans*** SERVICE: They are so sweet, kind, and patient, willing to answer any and all questions. Very splendid seeing a group of Spanish speaking ladies going strong at it! AMBIANCE: Casual, local coffee joint that's mainly enjoyed by the Hispanic community. Bathroom available. WiFi available. Very clean. Very modern decor. Two outdoor tables. Multiple indoor seating options. Located in the Safeway plaza with a multitude of establishments, stores, Jamba Juice, services, etc. Very large private parking lot. In the suburbs. Would I come back? Probably not.

See all

Inside

Java Java Brews

3.0

(2 reviews)

1.3 mi

The best iced coffee in town. The flavors of coffee and her syrups blend effortlessly and…read moredeliciously. Taste is always consistent! Cinnamon Roll Latte is my personal favorite but the blueberry matcha is fantastic. Customer service is excellent.

Terrible communication and customer service, really disappointing. Ordering process is really…read more unorganized. It's a shame because the drinks were actually good, but the experience overall wasn't worth it.

L-R Brown Sugar Cinnamon Shaken Espresso Iced matcha w/ cold foam Strawberry Cloud Latte Caramel Latte w/ cold foam

Iced Matcha w/ banana cold foam Raspberry lemonade S'mores latte Cookie Butter lattes

See all

Blueberry Lemonades & a S'mores Latte

Gold Leaf Spice & Teas

My partner and I were visiting the area and were so excited to find this tea shop! It was very cozy…read moreand cute inside and the woman working was so warm and inviting. She brought out a few different teas for us to smell and was really helpful and informative. We drank our tea there and she offered a second steep, milk, honey. It was a really nice experience and I wish they had a shop closer to home, but I've already ordered more of the tea that I had, Jasmine green tea, which was high quality and quite fragrant! Will be back!

I like all of the varieties here, but I have been treated in a very dismissive way by staff when I…read morehave come in with questions. I feel a little bit discouraged. I am a big tea person, but also don't know a lot about different varieties and want to try new things. I figured it would be OK to ask questions in a tea shop. I just wish that staff was a little bit friendlier to people like me who don't know what they're coming into order right away and need a little bit more time to ask questions and figure it out.

Gold Leaf Spice & Teas Carmel

See all

Closing time

Cherrybean Gourmet Coffeehouse & Roastery

Hands down best coffee in town. Every time I visit my family in Salinas I stop here for my fix…read more Their espresso is legit!!

Last reviewed over 8 years ago maybe time for a short update…read more The Cherrybean is one of many coffee shops within walking distance from my house to Old Town Salinas. And over the years my friends and I have visited all of them. The Cherrybean is respectable and relaxed. It's a full service shop with some food treats that go well with your choice of drink. A couple of tables and chairs outside in front and parking both front and back. If you're drinking your coffee black (me) it's pay and self serve. If you're fancy, you're waiting. Last words... good enough for me.

Spinach Quiche & Veggie Samosa

See all

Gourmet Central Bakery

4.6

(115 reviews)

8.1 mi

My guilty pleasure is definitely the sweet treats here--they truly have it all! Choosing what to…read moreorder is never easy, but this time I went with the classic almond croissant and decided to try something new with the passion fruit-filled croissant. Wow! The passion fruit filling was absolutely amazing--fruity, fresh, and bursting with flavor. The white chocolate topping was the perfect finishing touch and complemented it beautifully. I planned to eat only half and save the rest for later, but it was so good that I couldn't resist finishing the whole thing. I first visited during their soft opening in 2023 and have stopped by occasionally ever since. After this visit, though, I think it's officially become my go-to spot for all things delicious. Every visit feels like a treat, and I can't wait to come back for more!

food: very good looking, made fresh everyday, go quick…read more service: good ambiance: brightly lit, warm, and welcoming opinion: place opens early at 7 am - closes early at 3:30 pm, typical bakery time. I really wanted to have drink but I save 4 next time, I like the food but it was my first time try, Pastry very fluffy. my father who came with said it was flaky and crunchy. It made me think if they had pictures of cut inside and reveal be something for ppl to eat. almond crossiant is for picky person, however we loved chocolate crossiant. Is there any dog approved menu? Will return next time

See all

Empty display

Castle Rock Cafe and Mercantile

First time here and I walked in with my 13 week old puppy that was really excited to be there and…read morejumping all over things so the cashier offered him a pup cup and a kind lady enjoying her coffee offered to hold him while I ordered. I had no idea what I wanted so I told the cashier what I liked: matcha, lavender and cappuccinos or lattes and she crafted this for me!!! Everyone there was super friendly staff and customers. Good vibes all over, very inviting. Laid back atmosphere!

Checked out this coffee spot before eating at Toro Cafe next door. Super cute inside and they have…read morea lot of coffee/baked good items. The coffee was good, but this spot is kinda out of the way unless you live near by.

Perfect little patio to hang out

It's Easter here

Pistachio latte

See all

Jack's Coffee

Is there always a line? Yes. Is it worth the wait? Yes…read more Staff are always friendly, and they're flexible if you have adjustments or requests not on the menu, they definitely know their coffee. Cold brew with cold foam is my go to. I'm not a fan of the matcha since it comes sweetened, but the drinks that are flavored here tend to be on the sweeter side. If I want to throw a few extra miles on my gym runs I will have the Mexican mocha frappe, but I don't even want to know the calories on that one. Good local spot you have to try.

I love Jack's!!! Know why? Because the girls there are super friendly, always kind and in a good…read moremood. So you know what, I'm not even gonna comment on the quality of the coffee cause it really doesn't matter - coffee's coffee. The customer service, yeah you just don't find happy young people working in a lot of places anymore. So I'm coming to Jack's every day for my morning smile.

Jacks Coffee shop plus Keto Drink ( Cold brew, heavy cream and sugar free vanilla)

Hours

See all

Oatmilk cappuccino and caramel frappe to go.

First Awakenings

I have no idea how this place ever got a bad review. We were greeted with a smile and taken to a…read morewindow booth. The staff were fast and the service was excellent. But the best part was the food. Generous portions, fresh and everything was tasty. I was raveling but if I was ever back in town, this would s must stop. The decor was excellent, it was very clean and again the service and food were great.

I have visited First Awakenings several times over the years, mostly for breakfast, but today my…read moreson and I decided to try lunch instead. I ordered the tuna melt and he got the chicken Caesar salad. The tuna melt was honestly really good. The sourdough bread was toasted nicely and I loved that crispy layer of cheese on the outside because that is a special tray and my favorite part of any melt sandwich. The tuna salad itself was flavorful. It came with potatoes that unfortunately were probably the only miss for me. They seemed like they were not reheated all the way, so they had that slightly cold, rubbery texture. They also serve this little cucumber and tomato salad on the side that was absolutely delicious and honestly such a nice fresh side to my sandwich. My son wasn't too impressed with the Caesar salad because he said the dressing tasted watery, but other than that everything else he liked - the chicken was flavorful and nicely cooked, the salad was fresh and crunchy. Service and atmosphere were nice. Overall, I would definitely come back for lunch again. Breakfast is also great here, so I would recommend both.

Bacon skillet with carnitas added

See all

Con Azucar Cafe

3.1

(33 reviews)

2.9 mi

It's a really cute cafe and the drinks are yummy. I like how the menu is creative with unique…read moreoptions

Staff acted like she was in a hurry and miserable and no one was there. She gave me the wrong drink…read moreand heard me mention it but didn't offer to make me another. The avocado toast was super salty. They just spread guac and a couple of slices of avocado.

Custom drink "strawberry Horchata"

See all

Gansito Frappe (actually strawberry frappe)

Emma’s Bakery and Cafe

4.5

(107 reviews)

1.2 mi

I love the cookies from here. Taste like real butter, not like Crumbl. Haven't tried other things,…read morebut if opportunity allows, I will definitely.

We were driving through Salinas, CA, and stopped for a quick nosh at Subways which happened to be…read morenext to Emmas's Bakery and Cafe. I noticed Emmas as I was walking back to the car. And I luv pastries and baked goods especially if they're authentically fresh made from local bakeries not franchises. So even though we were on a time schedule, I made time to check out this place. So glad I did. Delicious baked items at reasonable prices. Right when I walked in, I was greeted by a young woman that had the best smile and attitude. She was super helpful. I chatted her up a bit and found out they opened in 2021 and it's a family business. The recipes are family recipes. Luv that! Also I had to ask about the prices, there are no prices marked for the baked goods. The case had cookies, cream pies (whole and slices), croissants, muffins, scones, cream puffs, eclairs, mini fruit tarts, cheesecake (whole and slices), and danishes. They all were just so gorgeous. Sitting so pretty in the case. We bought a carrot cake muffin, slice of banana cream pie, a Grandpa David's peanut butter cookie, and a chocolate chip cookie. The cashier packaged everything carefully and provided napkins and forks. The muffins were big, fat and hefty sized. The carrot cake muffin was moist but not so much that it fell apart. So darn good. The frosting was heavenly, not too sweet and just the prefect consistency. I devoured that right away in the car. While I was inhaling the muffin, Hubs scarfed down the banana cream pie slice. The cookies were nice "biggish" size. These cookies were moist, which I prefer over crisp crunchy ones. Grandma Dave's PB was one of the best PB cookies I've ever had. They are also have breakfast menu and lunch menu (burgers, sandwiches, and salads). The place is very small with few two person tables. It's more of takeout place.

See all

Villa Rivera Café

4.7

(18 reviews)

0.2 mi

I wish I had more photos to share all the delicious treats and drinks I've ordered from this place…read morebut of course they are always too tasty that I forget to capture. Anyways, im so glad my coworkers told Me about this place because it's been a nice addition to my frequent-places-to-visit-on-the-regular list. Honestly there is nothing I've had from this place that isn't good. From their lemonades, coffee, smoothies to their avocado toast, wraps, sandwiches, and cookies. They really nailed down their menu options! Not to mention the biggest thing, their staff is super friendly, welcoming and patient when you're trying to decide what to order. They may be located by the courthouse in Salinas but don't let that stop you for visiting. You won't be disappointed! & if you happen to need to serve jury duty, this is a nice spot to go hangout and enjoy a little break from doing your service. Or on any day, with some indoor outdoor seating!

This place is amazing. I ordered catering for 55 sandwiches, salads and chips for a work event it…read morewas a HIT! Everyone loved the sandwiches as the ingredients were fresh and they use Otto's sourdough! I wanted to make sure to leave a review for those that are looking to cater a luncheon, send them an email at villariveracafe@gmail.com. Their phone is weird because it is through the govt building and goes straight to voicemail. I also sent them messages on their social channels before finding the email and they responded there too lol... email is way better. When you are trying to find them, they are tucked away under what looks like a bridge of a building in the center of the campus behind two pillars. Sorry I didn't get a photo of the outside so I hope this description helps. Racquel the owner is the sweetest and I hope you all support this cafe!

Lemon Poppy seed scone from our local pastry chef at the Sweet Life.

Cute greenery

See all

My favorite Mexican Mocha at VillaRivera Café!

Sushi Hut

I really don't want to write a review and I want to gatekeep, but I won't do that. This place is…read moreawesome This place is very good, high quality. They have sushi premade in a grab n go case and other things out to buy and a couple of seats for eat in. The gyoza soup is to die for. Everything we have gotten here is so so good. It is in a shopping center, parking is tight.

This sushi and poke hut is gem in Salinas! What sets this place apart is the friendly service you…read morereceive! The workers are really friendly and has even given some recommendations for poke bowl combinations! The poke bowl I got is my fave: salmon with spicy sauce and the works! You can definitely customize as you please. The selections of noodles, sushi, dumplings are varied! You are sure to enjoy something from sushi hut! Also! Don't forget to have some yummy snacks, candies, tea, and flavored soft drinks! (it's a mini convenience store as well)

Decors inside..paintings

Take out sushi bowl

See all

Drinks

Creekside Bagel Bakery

Hands down great bagels! I have been visiting for many years and have decided they deserve…read morerecognition! Their bagels are made fresh daily onsite, the cream cheese quality is unmatched compared to other bagel establishments I've been to. The staff is awesome and friendly , they are quick and efficient at preparing your order and are always with smiles. I'm anchored in as a forever customer. Thanks creek bridge bagel staff!

Nice bagel place but I definitely did not like the way it was laid out, didn't make sense to me…read more.. too crowded where you ordered with people hanging waiting for their stuff. The service was just ok, not very friendly but the bagel with cream cheese was good.

Bagel varieties

See all

Bagel

Amapola Kitchen and Wine Merchant

4.9

(94 reviews)

0.1 mi

Came pack for the Wednesday Blue Plate special. I'm always wary of other people's turkey meatloaf…read moreand I Approve! The glaze was how I like it, sweet. Peas n potatoes perfect! Had the Chinese chicken salad. Excellent ! Get your butt here. Yummy!

This is a little known treasure in downtown Salinas. I'm so glad that we finally stopped here for…read morelunch. The service was beyond friendly. I ordered a gyro salad. My husband ordered a croque Monsieur (fancy word for a grilled cheese with a béchamel sauce). Both items were absolutely delicious. The dessert of a Basque cheesecake was absolutely fantastic. It's a very small restaurant and very clean. I was able to use the ladies room, which is always my litmus test to the cleanliness of a restaurant. It passed with flying colors. Average entrée is about $16. We really enjoyed our lunch and will definitely will return again.