Monterey & Carmel Food Recommendations 🍴🌊

A relaxing trip around the Bay Area isn’t complete without delicious food — after wandering along the coast and feeling tired, popping into a hidden gem of a restaurant for a feast is what makes the healing journey whole! Today, I’m sharing two amazing spots in Monterey and Carmel that you won’t regret checking out～ 📍 Phil’s Fish Market & Eatery ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5) This seafood market-cum-restaurant is like an “energy station” for coastal trips! From the outside, it looks like a laid-back beachside joint, but step in and you’ll be hit with the fresh scent of newly caught seafood. The walls are lined with photos of fishing boats, and diners are sitting or standing, tucking into seafood with gusto — it’s got that (relaxed and cozy) coastal vibe all over 🌊 ✅ Must-order Recommendations: Cioppino in a Bowl 🥣: Promise me you’ll order this seafood stew! The portion is (surprisingly huge) — when it’s served, the edges of the bowl are still steaming. It’s packed with shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams, and big chunks of snowy white fish — every bite is full of hearty seafood. The broth is a rich tomato base with a hint of wine and herbs, so fresh it’ll make your taste buds sing. Dip bread into the soup, and happiness levels hit the roof～ Fryer Combos 🍤: The made-to-order fried seafood platter is a total favorite! Shrimp, calamari rings, and fish pieces are coated in a light batter, fried to golden crispiness — they crunch satisfyingly when you bite into them, while the inside stays tender and juicy, with zero greasiness. The accompanying tartar sauce is sweet, tangy, and refreshing, making it impossible to stop at one bite — perfect for sharing～ ⚠️ A Minor Letdown: The Dungeness Crab, while a good size, is rather average in flavor — not as impressive as the first two dishes. It’s probably because, while fresh, the seasoning is simple, so it’s more suited to those who love plain, unadulterated seafood. 📌 Summary: Whether you’re passing by or making a special trip, it’s totally worth a visit! The (value for money) is super high — you can eat till you’re stuffed for just a few dozen dollars per person. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious — even wearing board shorts to chow down on seafood feels totally natural. After eating, you can head back to exploring the coast with that ocean-fresh vibe — it fits the rhythm of a Bay Area light trip perfectly～ #Monterey #Carmel