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    Whaling Station Steakhouse

    4.1 (1.1k reviews)
    Closed 4:30 pm - 9:00 PM
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Whaling Station Steakhouse Photos

    WHALING STATION STEAKHOUSE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Classy
    Good for kids
    Happy hour specials

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    Recommended Reviews - Whaling Station Steakhouse

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    Scalloped Potatoes
    Matthew C.

    Came here on Saturday night for dinner and place was pretty busy. Server was great, and establishment is well kept, with a nice classy casual feel. Ordered the oysters which were pretty average and nothing too amazing, and the Wellington which was a little under whelming. Also had the prime rib which for $100 at 16 oz I was skeptical, but it was delicious and worth the price. Sides are solid and some even big enough to share. Overall a little pricey and not everything is worth it so plan accordingly. I will come back here again when I'm in the area.

    Paul - our fabulous waiter !
    Charles R.

    EXCELLENT SERVICE ! We enjoyed a wonderful dinner at Whaling Station last night . The steaks were delicious, wedge salad was perfect , and artichoke was devine! But the true star of the evening was our spectacular waiter Paul . He was informative, attentive , polite and friendly . Watching him make a Cesar salad table side was masterful . We went for the quality cuisine , but our most memorable experience was this delightful and highly experienced waiter - Paul !

    Carpaccio
    Cathy T.

    On Saturday March 21, 2026, my group and I came in for our dinner reservation. We had high hopes for this dinner as my partner and I were having our first dinner out with our wedding party before our wedding day. We started off with the Carpaccio and Ahi Tuna Poke and both dishes were tasty. But as our dinner service continued, it took a turn. The general manager came in really emotionally charged when our group started to inquire with the staff about when the food would come out. As the wait for our entrees continued, it seemed more apparent that this establishment is not well equipped to handle large groups. The general manager failed to acknowledge any of the issues in the midst of his emotions. Our entrees took an hour to come out after the appetizers. I understand that good food takes time but our steaks were incredibly salty, mine was closer to medium rare than rare (I ordered rare), and my sister's chicken dish was cold on the top and warm on the bottom, as though it was placed on a warmer while they worked on other dishes instead of serving the food hot. The server was sympathetic and seemed to be trying his best but during one of the conversations with another member of our party, the general manager blamed the server for the wait time stating that the order had just been placed (about 40 minutes after we placed the order with the server). Our server later came by the table to clarify that he placed our order right after we placed it with him. During interactions, the general manager would only address the men in the group, ignoring the women who voiced their concerns. The GM could have taken accountability, apologized for the longer than expected wait times, and been sympathetic (or at least pretended to be). When the food did finally arrive, they seemed confused about which seat ordered what dish at the table. For a steakhouse in a busy tourist area, this experience was a major disappointment. They need a GM who can manage large parties, communicate effectively, and take ownership when service fails.

    Artichoke
    Margaret T.

    Came here to celebrate my partner's birthday and it did not disappoint. We came on a weekday and it seemed like a semi-slow night. Paul was our server and he was very attentive. We brought our own bottle of wine ($25 corkage), and he made sure our glasses were never empty, at least until the bottle ran out! We started with the artichoke app ($15) which comes with an addictive tomato dipping sauce. I opted for the salmon ($44) and my companion got the ribeye ($82). The salmon came on a bed of risotto and I was able to eat the whole portion. The ribeye came with mashed potatoes, spinach, and some fried onion strings. I managed to steal a bite of the mashed potatoes and they were quite good. Paul surprised us with a birthday cannoli on the house and they also sang happy birthday to us. Coincidentally, the table next to us also celebrated a birthday, so we kinda knew what to expect. Regardless, Paul and his team, as well as the patrons of this establishment, were all so friendly and welcoming. It was a lovely evening, and we look forward to a return visit!

    Takumi A.

    Monterey has no shortage of seafood-forward, tourist-facing dining rooms. That's fine - people are on vacation. But Whaling Station Steakhouse is something else: a classic Monterey steakhouse that actually executes. No theatrical distractions required. This meal wasn't cheap. And yet, by the end, it felt oddly economical - because the kitchen is doing real work. New England Clam Chowder (must-order) Most clam chowder fails in one of two directions: thin and forgettable, or thick in a way that tastes like warmed cream and starch. This New England clam chowder shows actual structure and restraint: * Large, real pieces of clam (not minced fragments trying to hide) * A fine, consistent potato texture throughout the soup (not chunky, not gluey) * Rich and creamy, but not heavy - it finishes clean You can taste the difference between "thick" and "built." This one is built. French Onion Soup (serious cheese, even better broth) Cheese pull is meaningless if the broth is bitter and the onions taste scorched. Here, the balance is the point. * Onions are deeply cooked until sweet, without that burnt edge * The broth is savory and dark, not harsh * The cheese layer is genuinely substantial - yes, it pulls for feet, not inches Most places serve onion soup as nostalgia. This is onion soup as craft. Beef Wellington (signature-level execution) Wellington is where steakhouses quietly lose credibility: soggy pastry, leaking mushroom layer, overcooked tenderloin. Whaling Station's Beef Wellington holds its geometry: * Pastry stays crisp and layered * Mushroom component feels integrated, not watery * Tenderloin lands at a confident medium rare * The cut stays clean; the filet doesn't collapse or bleed out That's basic physics applied correctly: heat control, moisture control, and rest time. SRF Wagyu Spring Roll (famous for a reason) This dish sounds like fusion nonsense until you eat it and realize it's simply smart. A thin spring roll wrapper crisps quickly and seals efficiently without smothering the filling. Inside is SRF Wagyu with enough fat to deliver aroma and juice, but not so much that it turns greasy. * Wrapper is shatter-crisp * Interior stays hot, juicy, intact * The sweet-tangy dipping sauce cuts fat and lifts umami This isn't a gimmick. It's controlled indulgence. Grilled Oysters (still plump, still juicy) Grilled oysters often shrink into rubbery bites. These don't. They stay plump, wet, and properly seasoned - heated enough to bloom flavor, not enough to punish texture. Lamb Chops Clean, tender, and properly cooked - no funky "sheepiness," no dry grain. Exactly what lamb should be in a Monterey steakhouse: rich, structured, calm. Beer pairing (local IPA) I went with a local IPA: aromatic (floral/citrus leaning) and not aggressively bitter. It pairs surprisingly well here - especially with the Wellington and the SRF Wagyu spring roll, where you want something that can lift fat and reset the palate without flattening the meat. Service + dining room Professional, warm, and composed. The kind of service that makes you slow down - not because they're trying to sell you a "moment," but because they're quietly doing the job well. Final verdict If you're looking for a Monterey steakhouse that delivers - Beef Wellington, SRF Wagyu spring roll, New England clam chowder, French onion soup, grilled oysters, lamb chops - this is the room. Yes, it costs money. But unlike many places that charge steakhouse prices, Whaling Station Steakhouse earns it. 5 stars. - Dr. C | ISO-Level Dining Analysis Precision. Structure. Balance. Only execution earns five stars.

    Cesar Caesar Salad
    Sarah V.

    Visited this gem of a place for a birthday celebration. While I didn't order steak the union soup and salad were delicious. The service was superb with kind and attentive staff. The only downside is that parking is limited unless you park in the parking garage.

    Crab Ravioli
    Suzanne R.

    Service is impeccable and very relaxed place and pescatarian options. From the appetizers to desserts outstanding. A must treat when you're in Monterey.

    Joy L.

    Take a trip back to memory lane for the old school dining experience at the Whaling Station. Waiters dressed in bow ties and slacks, hand shaken martinis with a classic French onion soup. The Whaling Station is by far the best steak on the Monterey Peninsula, but 100% the price reflects it too! Upon being seated your waiter will bring a cutting board full of the various cuts of steak being offered that night. All steaks are premium and you can add a lobster tail on any as a side. If you're looking for a nice wine to complement your steak, ask your waiter for ideas. We have been surprised both times with the excellent suggestion from Jun. 100% there is the early quiet dinner crowd or the later evening crowd. Oh and they offer a happy hour at the bar!

    Felt Mignon
    Rosalie r.

    My husband chose this restaurant to have a nice steak dinner and it did not disappoint. He was choosing between here and The Sardine Factory (both have amazing reviews) and we were all very pleased with our dinner and service. Steak was amazing, Mahi Mahi was good, kids meals were very large! And dessert was made in house and delicious- highly recommend the filet mignon and the key lime pie! Filet Mignon 10/10 *came with three different salts to dip for flavor and was amazing! Smoked salt/ Sirachi Salt / Sea Salt was a very good flavor Mahi Mahi 8/10 *could have been more moist but was still very delicious Kids Alfredo 10/10 *the flavor was and chicken flavorful and tender Kids Chicken Breast 10/10 Key lime Pie 10/10 Favorite! Must try! Crème Brûlée 10/10 but the key lime was even better

    Bull statue outside The whaling station
    Maggie R.

    Today was first time visiting The Whaling Station and we were totally impressed! We were seated immediately and welcomed by waiter Paul who made us feel so welcomed with his great personality and great sense of humor!! The ambiance of the restaurant was awesome, didn't feel cramped as tables were at a good distance and loved the table decor with red rose and a small light. We ordered the New York steak ( mash potatoes, spinach and crispy onion strands) and the prosciutto covered scallops with fettuccine and mushrooms. Both were delicious!! Then we ordered a dessert called Pavlova ( meringue topped with fruit and a passion fruit reduction, so heavenly! We were so pleased with the service and food! Water glasses never went empty ! Kudos to the bartender who made my lemon drop martini , it was amazing!! We definitely will be going back!

    Prisilia P.

    4.5* rounded up to 5*. This is one of the best steakhouses that we've visited. We ordered: - fried calamari(good) - grilled oyster & oysters rockefeller(avoid, not good. this was the only things we don't like from everything that we ordered.) - clam chowder(good) - french onion soup(good) - kids pasta with shrimp(very good) - ribeye steak usda(very good, the steak has good rubs) - ribeye steak wagyu(very good, fatty) - prime ribs 16oz(perfectly cooked!) - roasted caramel corn(the best side dishes!) - sauted mushroom(good) - truffled parmesan fries(good) We didn't realized that the steak already came with side dishes, so we ordered more side dishes and ended up with plenty of foods. However the foods are all very good and worth the cost. They also have free valet parking.

    Porterhouse for two

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    Steaks are delicious and always cooked perfectly. The service is first rate and we love the table side Caesar salad.

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    Page 1 of 29

    Whaling Station Steakhouse Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Whaling Station Steakhouse

    Do you serve Creekstone or F1 steaks?

    No. USDA Prime Wet aged for 3-4 weeks. Not from Creekstone or F1.

    Do they allow diners to split entrees?

    I would call the restaurant first. However, there is no reason why they would not allow customers to split entrées.

    What is the corking fee?

    $40

    Is this business dog friendly?

    No, this is formal/business restaurant

    Do you offer private dining?

    Yes

    Does anyone know if you can order Oscar style on their steaks?

    Not as of 2026, no

    Is this restaurant serving inside or is this outdoor dining?

    Inside dining is not allowed in most California counties. They serve outside in a tent.… 

    Is it just takeout right now?

    Take out and dine in!!!! Just had a great dinner last week!!!

    Is the wait time for the food long? WhT is it on average?

    Wait time is good. We got four dinners out to us, within 25 minutes of ordering it. They kept the bread flowing, so we were never once wondering where entrees was at.

    Do they have a dessert menu?

    Not an actual menu, but they bring around a tray of assorted desserts to tempt you! I recommend the Key Lime Pie, it was light and just the right amount of tart and sweet after a very savory dinner.

    When is happy hour?

    Happy hour is 4:30-6:30 nightly

    Does anybody know if they still serve dry aged steaks? The website said one thing, their menu said something different. I wouldn't want to make a special trip out there to be disappointed.

    All the steaks on the main menu are wet aged beef aged for 3-4 weeks. Occasionally as a special we have a dry age steak as well.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

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    Angel's Share Craft Cocktail Bar

    3.0
    (12 reviews)
    0.1 mi
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    Being in Monterey, we wanted to grab some drinks. Well more like we were done with our day and…read morewanted some relaxation before we went to bed so we explored the area and went bar hopping...kind of. This was the second place where we got some drinks. We did the varying reviews here (all of 3 review), but I decided for us that we'd go try it out. We walked over and found the place pretty easily. I mean it wasn't too difficult to find, but it was kind of weird they didn't have their own entrance into the restaurant but no big deal. I wanted to try both the cherry lime ricketey and the pink lemonade so the boyfriend got the ricketey and I got the lemonade. I'm so glad we did it that way because I found the cherry and lime drink too bitter and sour. I know that it's supposed to be sour, but it was just too much. Didn't love it as much as I hoped it would have. The pink lemonade was so good! I love the throwback to a childhood drink (with some alcohol of course). So good. Protip: give it a chance and definitely come here for a drink!

    I thought this was part of Lalla Oceanside, but I guess they have a separate name/web site, so I'll…read moreleave my review here, too: Dropped by when the rest of Cannery Row seemed a bit too crazy and had a couple drinks and a light bite in the basement bar. Service was pretty good. We were able to catch up on sports highlights and enjoy the ambiance and a good flatbread pizza and wedge salad. I want to try some other items on their menu. Expect to pay a good 10 percent more than you would elsewhere in Monterey. After all, this is Cannery Row.

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    Barrel aged cocktails
    Barrel aged cocktails
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    Compact Disco

    Compact Disco

    3.9
    (50 reviews)
    1.2 mi
    Family-owned & operated
    Veteran-owned & operated

    Awesome vibe gray place for a good time with friends . Drinks are worth the visit and food was a…read moreplus .

    The vibes are here but it all stops there…read more.. Let me start by saying that I love this place. Just needs a bit of cleaning up on their transparency. The 'keep it open' policy is something I appreciate but would also appreciate an itemized receipt when you close out. Here's why to keep your eye out when drinking at this establishment. 1- when you close out, it's helpful to verify what you consumed to ensure you're corrected charged. My receipt was the merchant copy and the customer copy. Itemized? Really had to ask for it. 2- the merchant copy - it asked for a tip and the total amount. When we closed out our beer and well drink, it was ~$28. Weird, right? So my thought was that they clearly charged something incorrect. 3- when there's something automatically charged, it had better be communicated to me upfront. The gratuity was automatically added and IT WAS 20%! No sign, no way to notify me that it was already added. It didn't even say so on the merchant or customer copy. On top of that, the copy asked for AN ADDITIONAL TIP. For something like that, I had better get great service. 4- The service here is spotty at best. There's usually one bartender for the often busy bar. Not a problem, usually. But with that high of a price, better serve your customers well and have a fully stocked bar. 5 - the options were lacking. Two things you'd think would be stocked but weren't - espresso (come on, even Kahlua) and apple liqueur for an espresso martini and appletini were too much to ask for, I guess. Overall, a disappointment. Good thing they have the vibes nearly right. But awful business practices.

    Photos
    They are on the guestlist.
    They are on the guestlist.
    The hallway has become the place to take photos for some reason. And we approve!
    The hallway has become the place to take photos for some reason. And we approve!
    Always awesome when the Naval Post Grad folks come by

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    Always awesome when the Naval Post Grad folks come by
    The Bulldog Sports Pub

    The Bulldog Sports Pub

    3.6
    (265 reviews)
    0.2 mi
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    We stopped by here on this past New Years Eve briefly. I randomly found this spot on Yelp while I…read morewas searching for places to try since we were having a little getaway for NYE in Monterey. I was so thrilled to check this pub out especially with our doggie, Meatball the Bulldog! How perfect right? A Bulldog at The Bulldog Sports Pub. We snagged the last available booth, and it had crumbs on there. Not clean. SMH. I went to the bar to order some drinks for my boyfriend and me since he left his wallet in the car. It was raining that night, and we parked several blocks away. The service was okay. I remember the guy bartender said $29something, but then he charged me $30something. I got the Jalapeno Margarita while my boyfriend had the Tito's Mule. My drink was very sweet with a kick of jalapeno while his was pretty good. They had music playing. It seems that there is a modern jukebox where you can pay to pick a song. There was one pool table for people to play. So many people came up to pet Meatball and give him so much attention. He absolutely loved it! There was one guy who asked if he can say "Hi" to Meatball, and we said that it was okay like we normally do. This weirdo was basically making out with Meatball; not cool at all man. Then Meatball flipped on his back, and he was holding Meatball. My boyfriend told him to let go of Meatball. It was such an uncomfortable interaction. Not normal at all. He even said, "This is my NYE kiss!" SMDH. The guy sat down at a table that is across from us, and he kept looking at us. We quickly finished our drinks, and then we left to ring in the new year at our hotel lobby instead. We should have just hung out in our hotel lobby instead of going out; it was much better there.

    Allowed my horse "dog" in...was very grateful. To top it off, Strongbow on tap!…read moreTons of TVs with lots of different sports on!

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    The Bulldog Sports Pub
    The Bulldog Sports Pub
    The Bulldog Sports Pub

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    Whaling Station Steakhouse - seafood - Updated August 2026

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