The Portola Hotel & Spa is known for its perfect location in downtown Monterey, just a 5-minute walk from Fisherman's Wharf. However, it also sits at the end of one of the most popular and happening places in Monterey: Alvarado Street. This historic street is full of local shops, eateries, and other businesses that tourists and locals love, not to mention the weekly farmers market that happens every Tuesday.
Alvarado Street Eateries
Revival Ice Cream
Revival is a handcrafted ice cream shop that is a favorite in Monterey. Because of it's popularity, it often has a line out the door. They have unique flavors like Banana Carmel, Apple Pie, and their award-winning Bee's Knees, made with honey, beeswax, pollen, and honeycomb candy.
Pacific Bowls and Rolls
This restaurant brings you sushi in a bowl, burrito (or "sushirrito"), or in its traditional form. It's a great choice for lunch or dinner with many healthy options. Enjoy Pacific Bowls & Rolls at their restaurant on Alvarado or through take-out and delivery.
Rosine's Restaurant
Rosine's is a popular American Italian restaurant that was featured on the Food Network TV show, Diners, Drive Ins, and Dives! It's been on Alvarado Street since 1986, and has consistently been voted "Best Family Restaurant" and "Best Desserts" by Monterey County Weekly readers since 1992! Some of the menu favorites include the Homemade Lasagna, Beef Minestrone, or any of their six layer cakes.
Nacho Bizness
If you love nachos, then Alvarado Street just got even better! This fun spot offers nachos piled high with your favorite cheese, meats, and toppings. Nacho Bizness makes their pico de gallo and guacamole fresh every day, and makes their dairy and vegan cheese in house.
Other Alvarado Street Businesses
Adventures by the Sea
Adventures by the Sea, just steps away from the Portola Hotel & Spa, offers rentals for biking on Alvarado Street (They also have kayak and stand up paddle boarding rentals at their other locations!). With standard, surrey, and electric bike options, you and the whole family can enjoy a fun activity together.
Bliss Boutique
This lovely, little boutique sells trendy women's clothing and accessories right here on Alvarado. Bliss Boutique is perfectly curated with the most eye-catching displays, and has a wonderful selection of every day clothing for each season.
Spa on the Plaza
Our award-winning spa, Spa on the Plaza, offers a relaxing oasis in the heart of Monterey. From massages, to facials, and private baths, this is the perfect place to stop and rejuvenate on your next visit to the Portola Hotel & Spa.
Farmer's Market
Every Tuesday, rain or shine, the Old Monterey Marketplace and Farmer's Market shows up on Alvarado street. Local artists, food vendors, and farmers line the street with their stalls packed full of delicious foods and craft goods. Enjoy this weekly Monterey tradition Tuesdays Oct- April: 4-7pm, and May – Sep: 4-8pm.
Explore Alvarado Street
The Portola Hotel & Spa is perfectly located at the end of Alvarado Street, giving our guests easy walking access to all of these local businesses plus our two on-site restaurants. Come visit us and see firsthand why this popular street is so special among local and tourists.