Monterey, CA, is a beautiful coastal town that is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and delicious food. If you're a foodie, Monterey has a lot to offer, from classic seafood dishes to innovative pub fare. In this week's blog, we'll take you on a culinary tour of Monterey and share some must-try dishes and restaurants in the area.
Classic Clam Chowder
When it comes to classic Monterey eats, clam chowder is at the top of the list. This creamy, comforting soup is made with tender clams, potatoes, and a rich broth. One of the best places to try clam chowder in Monterey is at Fisherman's Wharf, which is only a 5-minute walk from Portola Hotel & Spa. Ordering a warm bread bowl and enjoying the view on the wharf, is one of the best ways to savor this dish. Jacks Monterey and Peter B's Brewpub, our on-site restaurants also have fantastic clam chowder to warm you up!
The Freshest Seafood
Being located on the coast, it's no surprise that Monterey has amazing seafood. There are plenty of places to try fresh seafood here, but some great choices are Old Fisherman's Grotto, Sandbar & Grill, The Sardine Factory, and Jacks Monterey.
Farm-to-Table Eats
The town of Salinas, located not far from Monterey, is known as the "salad bowl of the world" because it produces approximately half of the lettuce grown in the United States. There is a big agriculture scene in Monterey County, with a focus on local ingredients, so this inevitably shows up in many of Monterey's restaurants. If you're looking for farm-to-table restaurants, try Stokes Adobe or Cella Restaurant. Both are within walking distance of the Portola Hotel & Spa, and offer innovative menus full of fresh local ingredients.
Local Wines
No foodie's guide to Monterey would be complete without a mention of wine! There are plenty of places to try local wines in Monterey, but Sovino Wine Bar, Puma Road, and Albatross Ridge are just steps away from the Portola Hotel & Spa, and all feature fantastic local wines.
Craft Beer
Monterey also has a thriving craft beer scene that has been gaining popularity in recent years. With a variety of breweries and taprooms offering unique and creative brews, beer enthusiasts will not be disappointed. At the Portola Hotel & Spa, we even have Monterey's Original Craft Brewery here on-site. At Peter B's Brewpub we're serving award winning craft beer and innovative pub food. Come visit when you're here, because you won't want to miss what we've been brewing!
Eat Your Way Through Monterey
Monterey is a great destination for a food vacation, with plenty of delicious dishes to try. From classic clam chowder to innovative cuisine, there is something for everyone in this coastal town. So, if you're planning a trip to Monterey, make sure to come hungry and ready to explore its culinary delights. To book your stay at the Portola Hotel & Spa, call us at (888) 222-5851 or visit our website.