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What's on Alvarado Street

Aug 20, 2025

The Portola Hotel & Spa is centrally located in downtown Monterey with Old Fisherman's Wharf only a 5-minute walk from the hotel, but less than a minute away is the heart of downtown Monterey, Alvarado Street. This historic street is popular with locals and tourists alike, and is filled with some of the best restaurants in Monterey along with shops, bakeries and more including a local farmers market on Tuesdays! 

Alvarado Street Eateries

Revival Ice Cream

Revival is a handcrafted ice cream shop with unique flavors that change daily such as Banana Carmel, Apple Pie, and their award-winning Bee's Knees, made with honey, beeswax, pollen, and honeycomb candy. They also include dairy free or vegan options, making it a favorite stop in Monterey. 

revival ice cream shop and logo

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. With hearty portions and a family friendly atmosphere, it's no wonder Rosine's has become a Monterey favorite.

Alejandro's

Alejandro's is a modern, upscale Mexican restaurant known for their fresh flavors that highlight different regions of Mexico. With an extensive cocktail menu and vibrant atmosphere, Alejandro's is a favorite whether you are looking for a romantic date night spot or a fun night out! 

Ad Astra Bread Co 

Ad Astra Bread Co is a bakery serving up delicious pastries and and is specifically popular for their sourdough loaves that are baked fresh daily. They also host a monthly baking class for those who want to learn how to make sourdough at home. You'll learn all their tips and tricks to make delicious bread and will get to leave with a proofing basket and a loaf to take home! 

close up of bake goods

Other Alvarado Street Businesses

The Hot Spot Studios 

The Hot Spot Studios is a new creative spot heading to Alvarado Street soon. Guests can choose projects ranging from pottery painting, canvas painting, candle making, creating mosaics, gnome/ fairy gardens or slime. Prices can vary on projects, but you get to take your creation home along with the memories you made. This activity is also perfect for groups with party packages so check out their website if you are interested in learning more!

Adventures by the Sea

Adventures by the Sea, just steps away from the Portola Hotel & Spa, makes adventure easy by offering bike rentals with standard, surrey and electric bike options.  Explore Alvarado Street and beyond without the need for a car and take the coastal views! If you want to head out on the water, check out their other locations offering kayak and stand-up paddle boarding rentals!

bike trolley and bike for rent

Golden State Theatre 

The Golden State Theatre was opened in 1962 with the auditorium being designed to give the impression of an outdoor courtyard, a rare feature among California theaters. This historic building is a part of Monterey's cultural landscape, with live performances and events including popular comedians and well-known musicians performing here. Head to their website to see what events are coming soon!

Farmers Market

The Old Monterey Farmers Market, happens every Tuesday on Alvarado Street with local vendors selling arts and crafts, handmade jewelry, furniture, clothing, international food, organic produce, flowers, and pastries. This local favorite has happened every Tuesday since 1991 and offers a place for locals and tourist alike to enjoy the delicacies these local vendors have to offer.  Enjoy this weekly Monterey tradition Tuesdays Oct- April: 4-7pm, and May - Sep: 4-8pm.

plums at market

Visit Alvarado Street

This iconic and historic street is the heart of downtown Monterey, and with community events happening often, popular stores and restaurants, we're fortunate be located just steps away from it all. The Portola Hotel & Spa is also centrally located to Monterey's most popular attractions providing our guests with easy walking access to all of Monterey. To check out our accommodations or book your room, visit our website or call us at (888)-222-5851 .

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