🇺🇸 Around the Bay Area｜4 Underrated Monterey Seafood Restaurants

As someone from Zhejiang who grew up eating seafood, I had low expectations for American seafood—until I visited Monterey! 🐚 These four seafood restaurants are must-visits every time I’m in town. They offer a wide variety of incredibly fresh seafood—you can truly taste the ocean 🌊. It’s rare to find this quality in the U.S.! 1️⃣ Old Fisherman’s Grotto A classic seafood restaurant with ocean views at Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf. Elegant and full of atmosphere 🍽️💫. Their crab 🦀 and lobster 🦞 are a must-try—so many varieties, tender and juicy. You can taste the freshness in every bite! The menu is extensive—both mains and sides are delicious. Save room for dessert! Reservations are highly recommended—it’s always busy! 2️⃣ Monterey Fish House ⚠️ Literally THE BEST seafood restaurant I’ve had in the U.S.! No exaggeration—even the oysters are bigger than my palm 🦪. Super fresh and only $3 each—unbeatable value! They’re sweet and silky raw, and incredibly fragrant when grilled with garlic. The texture is like jelly—absolutely addictive~ The seafood pasta exceeded expectations—the portion in the photo is only a half serving, piled high with shrimp, squid, lobster, and crab 🦐🦑🦞🦀. You’ll leave stuffed! 3️⃣ Ocean Sushi Deli A hidden Japanese gem in Monterey 🍣, run by Japanese owners. The menu covers an entire wall—so many choices! I’ve made it my mission to try everything on it! The sashimi is fresh and thickly cut—you can really taste the quality. The tempura is crispy outside, tender inside, and not greasy. The yakitori is a must—juicy, flavorful, and seriously moreish. Prices are very reasonable, and no tip is required! 💰👍 Just note: they close early, so check the hours before you go! 4️⃣ Phil’s Fish Market If you like casual, no-frills seafood joints, this is the spot! 🎣 Located near the kayaking area in Monterey. Their Cioppino (seafood stew) is famous—rich broth loaded with seafood. Every main comes with a salad. While not as premium as the others, it’s still great value for the price and portion. Like the last spot, no tip needed—very affordable! 🌊 #Monterey isn’t just a gem in #California—it’s a seafood lover’s paradise! 🦀🌊 #BayAreaEats #SeafoodLovers #MontereyFood #TravelAndEat