Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. California Central Coast

Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Pacific Grove

Price
Cuisine
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

32 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Passionfish restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(7233)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Pacific Grove
Booked 14 times today
Passionfish offers a unique California dining experience with serious food and realistically priced wine in a fun and casual atmosphere. The ever-changing menu features the freshest, sustainable seafood, slow-cooked meats, organic greens, and delectable desserts, all complemented by an award-winning wine list priced nearly to retail. Passionfish is proudly owned and operated by Chef Meral Alpay and her son, Berk Guvenc. As pioneers in sustainable dining, Passionfish became the first restaurant in Monterey County to earn official ‘Green’ certification, reflecting their strong commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable seafood education.
A photo of Fandango restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3853)
Price: Expensive
• European • Pacific Grove
Booked 15 times today
A favorite among Fandango regulars is the succulent Rack of Lamb; other menu items include Fresh Seafood, a variety of pastas, delicious and exotic Mediterranean dishes such as paella and Couscous, and a tempting selection of excellent steaks. Several daily specialties are also available.Desserts we offer, Souffle, Profiteroles, Chocolate Mousse
A photo of La Mia Cucina restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1014)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Pacific Grove
Booked 1 time today
Stroll along 17th St., between Lighthouse and Laurel and you will find one of the Peninsula’s favorite spots, La Mia Cucina. This little jewel, with its fresh ambiance and tantalizing menu, is popular with everyone. The colorful European advertising posters that enliven the walls, are “originals, not reproductions.” That phrase is accurate in describing La Mia Cucina itself. From the comfortable linen white decor, accented beautifully by those turn-of-the-century posters, to the hand-crafted entrees and desserts, everything about La Mia Cucina says fresh and original. Owner Michael’s specialty, his ravioli dishes, are a renowned local favorite, and for good reason. They are hand made, with all the care that only a lifetime of creative food combining can bring. In addition to pasta, La Mia Cucina is known for it's fresh fish and meat specials. The desserts are made in-house by his wife Paula and daughter Michaela, and the service is personal and inviting.
A photo of Schooners Monterey restaurant
4.5
Awesome(3029)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Monterey
Booked 25 times today
Schooners, suspended over the waters of Monterey Bay, is a stunning restaurant featuring sustainable seafood and approachable, contemporary American cuisine. The ideal location for celebrating the Central Coast and the spectacular coastal region, the Schooners team commitment to fresh, sustainable seafood is reflected in the creative menu which features a variety of seafood options, both raw and cooked, as well as appetizers, soups, salads and main courses. A creative cocktail menu is served alongside an impressive wine list highlighting Monterey County vintners.
A photo of Sardine Factory restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4963)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Monterey
Booked 12 times today
Every city has that one can’t miss restaurant, where celebrities feel at home and every other guest feels like a celebrity. Since October 2, 1968, The Sardine Factory’s cachet has made dining in our historic Cannery Row setting a tradition for world leaders, sports heroes and entertainment icons. Our award-winning chefs prepare delectable creations of fresh, sustainable seafood and USDA Prime Aged Beef; winner of Restaurant Hospitality Magazine’s "Best Wine List in America" award. The Lounge’s live entertainment, Happy Hour and affordable menu are a casual alternative to our other dining rooms. Celebrating over 50 years under the same ownership and management! Voted "Best Restaurant in Monterey" by Monterey County Herald readers.
A photo of Beach House Restaurant at Lovers Point restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4300)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Pacific Grove
Booked 7 times today
Casual California dining overlooking scenic and historic Lovers Point Beach.
A photo of Old Fisherman's Grotto restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1629)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Monterey
Booked 4 times today
Nestled on the historic Fisherman's Wharf, overlooking the picturesque Monterey Harbor, Old Fisherman’s Grotto is a must-visit dining destination. Renowned worldwide for its exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, and charming ambiance, the Grotto offers a culinary experience like no other. Our menu showcases fresh seafood sourced sustainably, USDA prime beef, and an extensive wine selection with over 200 choices recognized by Wine Spectator Magazine. With a commitment to providing an intimate dining atmosphere, we enforce a zero-tolerance policy for excessive noise levels, ensuring a pleasant experience for all our guests. We kindly ask patrons to keep noise levels moderate to respect others' dining experiences.
A photo of Fish Hopper restaurant
4.5
Awesome(3751)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Monterey
Booked 57 times today
Experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean combined with world-class dining on historic Cannery Row, just a short walk from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The newly renovated Fish Hopper, housed in an original sardine cannery building, offers spectacular views of the stunning Monterey Bay from every table, including our heated outdoor patio. The Fish Hopper specializes in fresh, sustainable seafood, certified Angus beef, pastas, and live shellfish. Our seafood is either locally caught or shipped in fresh daily, and our produce is locally grown in the Salinas Valley. Some favorites include fresh Monterey Bay abalone, macadamia-crusted halibut, our famous “Tomahawk Chop” bone-in rib eye, and fresh Dungeness crab. Start your meal with our award-winning clam chowder, and indulge in one of our many exotic cocktail creations or a selection from our extensive wine collection. While enjoying your delicious meal, you can watch sea otters at play and even catch a glimpse of the occasional whale.
A photo of The Whaling Station Steakhouse restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2424)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Monterey
Booked 18 times today
The internationally acclaimed Whaling Station Steakhouse, perched just above Steinbeck’s Cannery Row has been Monterey County’s #1 Steak House for over 50 years, The Whaling Station takes the term “Steakhouse” seriously...Select your USDA Prime cut of the USA’s finest beef from a silver tray or enjoy our slow-roasted USDA Prime, Prime Rib. An award-winning wine list and full spirits bar compliment your dining experience. Serving Dinner and cocktails from 4:30pm daily. The Bar at The Whaling Station Steakhouse has its own menu and its own local following, with drink specials and lively conversation served nightly. Parking in our private lot. A private, 50-seat banquet room is also available.
A photo of L'Escargot - Carmel restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1251)
Price: Moderate
• French • Carmel
Booked 1 time today
Nestled in a residential neighborhood on Mission Street, three blocks north of Ocean Avenue lies a slice of “Old Carmel”. Originally founded in 1958 by Yvan Nopert and his family, Chef – Owner Kericos Loutas carries on the traditions of superb Country French Cuisine and personalized friendly service. A local favorite for casual fine dining in a romantic atmosphere, L’Escargot offers visitors an alternative to the “tourist experience”. The menu changes frequently, as do the specials. A three-course prix fixed Bistro Menu is offered nightly.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • KARENVIP
    New York City •22 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    A fun place to be during the holidays. Good food and drink. We are out of state customers and will come again when we are back in the area.
    More info
    PassionfishPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Pacific Grove
    4.8
  • GregVIP
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We always enjoy our time at La Mia Cucina. The attention to detail is appreciated, the staff and ownership are very attentive and the food is amazing.
    More info
    La Mia CucinaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Pacific Grove
    4.8
  • Dana
    California Central Coast •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    First timers, but will definitely return again. Wonderful restaurant to celebrate a special occasion. We were seated in the Captains Room. The ambiance was exquisite. I can only describe the service as impeccable, they know how to treat their customers and make the dining experience a delight! Brandon and Pedro were absolutely wonderful!
    More info
    Sardine FactoryPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Monterey
    4.7
  • Vicki
    San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    I chose Fandango for my birthday dinner because of its excellent and diverse menu, asking for a quiet corner. As it's popular and sometimes noisy, we went early to dodge the crowds. To my delight and gratitude, they seated us in a pleasant, small, quiet room by ourselves. Only by the time we reached dessert did a few other guests join us. It was perfect. The servers were thoughtful and attentive. I ordered sweetbreads, which are hardly served anywhere else, and while they weren't the best I've ever, they were very good. Our desserts were excellent. The whole experience met and exceeded my expectations and desires.
    More info
    FandangoPrice: Expensive• European• Pacific Grove
    4.7
  • Shaheen
    California Central Coast •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 16, 2024
    I found this place in the magazine and turned out to be a fantastic restaurant by the water ! Easy to find and there are plenty of street parking! The staff were wonderful and amazing services ! I will visit this place again soon ! There are many shopping places near by as well!
    More info
    Schooners MontereyPrice: Expensive• Californian• Monterey
    4.5

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Pacific Grove

Discover the charming allure of neighborhood gems nestled in the scenic area of Monterey/Carmel, specifically in Pacific Grove, along California's Central Coast. These quaint and delightful eateries are celebrated for their unique character and intimate ambiance, making them perfect spots for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable dining experience. The dining scene in this locale is renowned for its diverse culinary offerings that blend local flavors with innovative touches, providing a rich gastronomic journey. Each restaurant prides itself on exceptional service, where staff go above and beyond to create a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Menus are thoughtfully curated to include seasonal ingredients and local produce, ensuring every dish is fresh and flavorful. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a romantic dinner or a casual place for a family gathering, Pacific Grove's neighborhood gems offer something special for every occasion. Explore these culinary treasures and enjoy a dining experience that epitomizes the essence of California's Central Coast.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo