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    Vivolo's Chowder House

    4.0 (2.3k reviews)
    Open 11:30 am - 8:00 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Vivolo's Chowder House Photos

    VIVOLO'S CHOWDER HOUSE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Outdoor seating
    Good for kids

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    Recommended Reviews - Vivolo's Chowder House

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    Reviews With Photos

    Oysters.
    Sonya E.

    When in the area, one should experience neighborhood staples that people near a far rave about. On a recent trip to Monterey, curiosity landed me at Vivolo's -- a favorite of the locals for nearly four decades. Highly recommend their signature calm chowder - it's everything you expect in a chowder that has been slow cooking for hours. Rich, savory, creamy -- and with hints of celery (?) and potatoes. Not sure of their secret sauce but it was certainly a hit for me! Add some black pepper and tobasco to make it an even bigger hit. The oysters on a half shell were good but not my favorite -- probably not the right type of oysters to serve raw. Other than that, service was great. The restaurant is spacious and inviting. Would definitely return!

    Raw oysters
    Amber N.

    We wanted the best clam chowder bowl in town and when we looked up online where to eat this place was recommended. We walked from the aquarium and it was only a 7 min walk. When we got there we had to wait in small line for seating. Surprisingly we got a table for two of us 5 mins later. They weren't that busy for a Saturday afternoon. The place is a little small but had plenty of seating. The restaurant was cutely decorated with all the ocean and beach vibes. We ordered the clam chowder bread bowl ($21), the local rock cod ($21) and 6 raw oysters ($19). The service here was amazing. I got my raw oysters first and after I was done they clear the table and served our entrees all the same time. They offered black pepper and salt. They even sprinkled the pepper for you. Food was really yummy. The bread bowl was huge. The clam and fish tasted good even the vegetables on the side. Pasta and bread were super soft. We ate all of our food and left no crumbs. They also came around and filled our waters like three times. I really enjoyed eating here and would definitely come back.

    Emma B.

    Came for the sand dab tacos and was pretty disappointed. I'd really wanted sand dabs while in CA. They seemed to had fried the fish with some of the skin on, which I'm not sure was on purpose but biting into your taco and seeing black, not great! Plus the weird artichoke salsa didn't work, was like a sautéed veg sauce. The spicy sauce had a weird consistency, and was too spicy and I enjoy spicy. If they had just made them typical baja style they could have been great. Got the clam chowder and that was good. Restaurant was fairly empty for a weekday lunch during Spring break season.

    Quick bite salad and bread
    Tanita J.

    Super good food! Came in on a Monday after golf - the restaurant was pretty empty and smelled a little fishy so we were concerned. We got sat at a table really close to the other people in the restaurant the the host seemed concerned when we asked for some space since the whole restaurant was empty. We were worried we chose the wrong place but the food literally blew us away. The clam chowder in a bowl was soo good. I got the small bite special with chowder, salad and bread. My husband got the seafood Rueben which was deceivingly good. We also super enjoyed the calamari (note that it's rings only, no tentacles) Service and ambiance were nothing to write home about but food was fantastic!

    Decor
    Annie W.

    It had been a number of years since I'd been to Vivolo's Chowder House and I remembered it was really good back then, but this recent visit was a bit of a disapointment. There were four of us and we decided to dine family style. We ordered the fried calamari, a bowl of clam chowder, the pan seared rock cod with lemon butter sauce, and the linguine pescatori. The clam chowder was really good and the rock cod was pretty good, but the calamari was a bit too chewy and the linguine pescatori lacked flavor; just didn't seem to have the richness in the marinara sauce to give it that good homemade taste. In fact, the marinara seemed watered down. While half the meal was a disappointment, the service was still really good. Extra lemon was brought to the table quickly when I requested it and our water glasses were refilled when necessary. I would definitely return for a bowl of chowder if I was in the area, but I'm not sure I would order a complete meal again. When we left, there was a long line waiting for tables, so maybe they were just having an off night!

    Linguine
    Diana H.

    Road trip to Monterey and wanted clam chowder. Stopped by Vivolo's to get some warm chowder. There are plenty of street parking right in front. Ordered calamari, fries, clam chowder and the linguine with claims in garlic butter sauce. Everything was really good and service was friendly. Will come back again soon.

    Shrimp Scampi
    Justin H.

    Visited this spot in Monterey due to the many reviews they had. Sat outside their restaurant since we had our dog with us. We ordered the shrimp scampi, clam chowder, calamari, and their special pasta. I enjoyed their shrimp scampi; perfectly seasoned for my taste. As for the clam chowder, taste was okay, but I prefer my clam chowder to be on the thicker side. The calamari wasn't seasoned properly, and wasn't exactly crispy...and also, there was a piece of hair embedded with the breading of the calamari, which threw me off. My wife enjoyed her pasta though. Overall, it was nice to try, but unsure if I'll be back for a second visit.

    Bread bowl $18, Nov 2025
    Mel N.

    A spot in Monterey... street parking. It was busy around holiday lunch time but luckily didn't have to wait long. Came for the chowder. I think my first time having a bread bowl?? It is a lot of bread.... so makes it very filling even if you have a little bit. I liked it. Probably on the more pricey side, but wasn't expecting Monterey to be cheap.

    House specialty pasta
    Linda M.

    We decided to find some food after exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the surrounding area. There was no wait when we arrived. The inside is nicely decorated. I ordered the rock cod which came with pasta, chowder, veggies (chard?), mashed sweet potatoes(?). Fish was perfectly cooked, all the sides were delicious. I did not wind up finishing my meal and took the rest home. My partner had the house specialty pasta which he greatly enjoyed. We loved the vibes and would come back.

    Outdoor dining area, 9/13/25
    Mike C.

    How does Yelp help for road trips? Well, when you know your travel companions favorite dishes, this is a helpful tool when you've never been someplace... I mean, like ever. In traveling to the Monterey peninsula for the 1st team (me, that is), I put the two names of their favorite dishes and searched before finding this low key restaurant. Not being familiar with the area, I was surprised to learn that it was only about six blocks from the hotel where I stayed. To start, I also ordered a drink, the guava juice (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=mWAZCI1TrtSvKrBxq3tBHg) which was a generous glass and not overly sweet. Here is what we had for our meals: 1. Fried Monterey calamari (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=iUBFENyWxDJeT17qxW4e9A), shared - Tartar and cocktail sauce. 2. Fried artichoke hearts, shared (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=4C-IvRChXAGvgV52zOMtMg) - Garlic aioli sauce, ranch. 3. Quick bite (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=x_pLMA89od_fNPPJRFBxoA). (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=a3H0crBS_sNvcUez5UlexA), shared - Cup of clam chowder, garlic bread, side salad. This was a meal in itself given the salad portion. The chowder was good but my expectations were likely too heightened by their signage. 4. Steamed clams (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=tBRH-pVNB37C5XQIxHou4w), shared - White wine sauce. I tried a bite only and it was fine. Mains 5. Linguini calamari and clams, garlic butter sauce (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=2ejcowCN86kFiVAHuo9Rmg) - I generally lean towards red sauce for this and I didn't want to repeat another diner's order of this with Alfredo sauce. I enjoyed this but, sauce wise, I would likely order the Alfredo sauce when here again. A friend who ordered the chicken Marsala entree (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=wbFprhkXRl-_W1sg9eFN3Q), chicken breast sauteed with fresh mushrooms and Marsala wine sauce; this came with pasta (ordered plain) and vegetables (kale and butternut squash). Another friend let me try her linguini calamari and clams with Alfredo sauce (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=72&select=gAIVwQccBkkkXH_bWk1j-w) which I enjoyed a little more than mine due to the creaminess as mentioned above here. Our waiter was a bit cold when we started but warmed to us as the meal progressed. The dining room was only 1/4 full, odd for a Saturday evening. The waiter and bus staff were efficient in removing empty plates and bowls, refilling water glasses, and packing our leftovers to go. Epilogue: How good was that Marsala? I was one of three guests who returned the next day after lunch to bring a takeout order. One fail was the restaurant mistakenly gave us the House pasta instead of the requested linguini calamari and clams with Alfredo sauce as the diner does not particularly enjoy fish. Will be back to dine in, and who knows, perhaps bring meals home again.

    Bella N.

    I came here on a Saturday morning and it was not as busy as I expected, which was a nice surprise. Parking in this area is definitely not the most fun, so that is something to keep in mind if you are planning to stop by during peak times. The ambiance inside is very basic. Just tables and chairs, nothing fancy, and things are a little on the squished side. Not uncomfortably tight, but close enough that you definitely notice the surrounding tables. I started with a cup of chowder, which was solid. It reminded me a bit of the wharf style chowders around here. Good flavor, creamy, enjoyable, but nothing I would say you have to rush over for. For my meal, I ordered the breaded sand dabs with the buttery sauce option. I am pretty sure sides could be chosen, though I did not dig too deep into it. My plate came with a steamed sweet baked potato, some very salty but tasty greens, and a side of pasta. The pasta was actually really good and had a similar vibe to the pasta you get at Monterey's Fish House, which was a nice surprise. Overall, a good meal, simple atmosphere, and just be ready for the parking situation.

    Virginia N.

    This was one of our favorite spots on our trip! Very solid clam chowder, fish and chips, and oysters rock a feller. It was so well priced and the service was friendly as well.

    Fried Artichoke Hearts and Basket French Fries
    Christine T.

    Cozy restaurant and very family friendly. We needed 2 high chairs and they were quick to get our table set up. They have both indoor and outdoor seating. We ordered their pasta with calamari and clams, a bowl of clam chowder, cod with vegetables as well as a starter of fried artichoke hearts and a basket of fries (toddler friendly). House wine was a great add on. Food was hot, delicious, and fairly priced. Would absolutely come back. We didn't have reservations and were seated immediately, even with what felt like a full house. They turn tables fast which is a plus.

    Bay Shrimp Sandwich and Clam Chowder

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    17 days ago

    Great Calamari Piccata! Wife had it. I have seafood stew. Amazing. Going back in June.

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    21 days ago

    Nice family restaurant with really good clam chowder. It's my go to spot when I travel with my family.

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    19 days ago

    Get ya a big bowl of clam chowder it's very good. Very friendly people. Also ate a crab sandwich and I enjoyed

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    Page 1 of 59

    Vivolo's Chowder House Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Vivolo's Chowder House

    What's the difference with Boston Pan roasted chowder from the regular white one?

    The Boston Chowder has tomato in it, so it's pink a little thicker and a different recipe from the regular chowder. It's delicious!

    Is the chowder house made?

    Yes it is made in house

    Are you open for indoor dining during Covid19?

    Yes. Here on 7/4/20 and sat inside. They adhered to social distancing when seating inside

    View All 6 Questions

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    This place hits the spot. Grab a clipboard and pen and write down your order and put in on the…read morecounter in the back for the team to start making your sandwich. I got the #2, was so good. I got it with pesto mayo and it was amazing. The sandwiches are massive, a whole can easily be split by 2 people. Get a large sandwich, bag of chips and then go enjoy some yummy food on the beach. The cake looked amazing but I didn't get to try it. Next time!

    Corner stores are the cornerstones of the US. From Italian delis to bodegas to mom & pop…read moreconvenience stores--they're the best places to get the local vibes. Compagno's was the perfect, no-frills stop before heading to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. They've got cold drinks and snacks (wide variety of chips) but if it's sandwiches you seek, fill out one of slips on the table outside and bring it to the counter. Bennett was so friendly and even quizzed us with a Jeopardy question while we waited for our sandwiches. The sandwiches were huge! I got the chicken breast, bacon, and avocado and he was kind enough to wrap my avocado separately since we had a bit until I was going to eat it. Real, fresh chicken! The mortadella one was also delicious. Bonus points: they were so kind to give a huge slice of delicious Oreo cake to my wife when we mentioned that we were in town for her birthday! Will definitely stop here again for a beach or aquarium day.

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    We tried the Al Pollo Panini and Pinsa Diavola which were both really good. Food came out fast and…read morefresh! Very helpful staff who gave us some recommendations. The environment was inviting and cozy. You get to chose your owns seats as well. Overall good experience!

    After a long visit to the aquarium, I searched for a place with gluten free food bc my husband has…read moreCeliac. It was a nice walk to the marina on a beautiful sunny day. We met Raul at the counter. He is by far the most friendly, kind and informed restaurant staff (about gluten sensitivity, gluten allergy and what it is to have Celiac) we've ever met. He explained how he prepares the gluten free dough separate, bakes it separate and plates it separate. Based on Raul's genuine concern and knowledge, my hubby decided to try it. Our family had various different sandwiches. (I had the very delicious Vegetariano.) We all agreed they were THE BEST SANDWICHES WE'VE EVER HAD...EVER...ANYWHERE...(mike drop).The freshly baked bread was incredible, all of the ingredients were fresh, even the side salad was amazing!!! The service was straight out of the old days, when people actually had pride in their work and genuinely cared about how you were treated in their establishment. We wish every restaurant that offers gluten free options could have someone as friendly, kind and knowledgeable as Raul. The ambiance was very cute/quaint inside and out. It was a beautiful sunny day so we sat outside to enjoy the sunshine and listen to the sea lions. Raul came out to check on us and we could not thank him enough for his amazing food and hospitality. When we said how much we enjoyed the gluten free bread, he told us he sold the flour (from Italy) inside. My adult son immediately bought some for us to bake gluten-free bread at home. (We've since baked gluten-free bread and it was just as amazing) I've told everyone I know about this amazing place. It has the trifecta of what makes us want to return frequently: *****Food *****Service *****Ambiance Until next time Piccolo!

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    Interior

    Piccolo - Caesar's salad without croutons

    Caesar's salad without croutons

    Piccolo - Great location

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    8.7 Pizza was…read moreexcellent and definitely worth trying! We ordered the Nueva Margherita and the Return of the Fun Guy (fungi pizza), and both were fantastic. Starting with the Return of the Fun Guy, this pizza featured black truffle velouté, mozzarella, a medley of mushrooms, hazelnuts, and tarragon pesto. The flavor was rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying. The truffle and mushroom combination worked perfectly together, creating a well-balanced pizza that wasn't overly heavy. The tarragon pesto was a pleasant surprise, especially since I'm usually not a huge pesto fan. My only minor criticism is that I would have liked a few more mushrooms on the pizza, but overall it was outstanding. The star of the meal was the Nueva Margherita. This elevated take on a traditional Margherita pizza came topped with house marinara, stracciatella, Parmesan, and fresh basil. The addition of the creamy stracciatella brought the pizza to another level and made every bite incredibly flavorful. The sauce was bright and fresh, the cheese was rich and plentiful, and the basil tied everything together perfectly. This is an absolute must-order. Service was fast, friendly, and attentive throughout our visit. The ambiance leans more toward a lively bar atmosphere with close seating. Overall, both pizzas were delicious. I'd happily order either one again and highly recommend giving them a try.

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    Hops And Fog Brewing - Nice ambiance

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    Vivolo's Chowder House - seafood - Updated June 2026

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