Shearwater Tavern — Restaurant in Monterey

We hadn’t visited the Carmel Mission Inn for several years and knew that it had been refreshed since our last visit. We decided to have dinner at Shearwater Tavern, tucked inside the Carmel Mission Inn and had an absolutely wonderful experience. Our outstanding dining experience began with a delicious Caesar Salad paired with their wonderful signature Parker House Rolls—warm, house-baked, and served with local honey butter and a bit of sea salt. These starters set the tone perfectly for the main event: a flawlessly grilled bavette (flank steak), a favorite of ours, topped with a rich green peppercorn sauce and accompanied by crispy shoestring frites. Our steak arrived cooked precisely to our medium-rare preference and request, showcasing the kitchen's attention to detail.

The staff was exemplary—friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. Our waiter, Leonel, brought warmth and expertise to the table, clearly drawing from his years of experience. John, a talented Manager on site this evening, was equally attentive and informative, making us feel right at home.

The ambiance at Shearwater Tavern is another highlight. The two dining spaces are both casual and tastefully designed, and the lobby’s modern refresh, cozy outdoor firepits, large fun painted cow, and even the attractive restroom wallpaper add to the inviting vibe. With ample parking, visiting or dining there is a breeze. They also have an attractive bar and a happy hour. If you stay here, you will be right across the street from the fabulous Crossroads Shopping Center and near The Barnyard Shopping Center.

This is a place we plan to revisit soon, and their intriguing menu offers even more delightful dishes waiting to be discovered!. Shearwater Tavern at Carmel Mission Inn is a must-visit—highly recommended!

In December 2024, we recently returned to Shearwater Tavern for dinner and had another fantastic experience. The staff, including the wonderfully kind and helpful Angel, made us feel so welcome. We couldn’t resist ordering the flank steak and frites with peppercorns again—it was just as amazing as we remembered. This time, we also tried the delicious sea bass dish, flavorful meatballs, and warm dinner rolls. Everything was absolutely satisfying and delicious. The comfortable ambiance, great service, and ample parking made for a perfect evening. We’re already looking forward to...

First of all: why would anyone thing it’s a good idea to outfit your dining room with counter-height seating and tables. The chairs were so uncomfortable, everyone with their feet left dangling or searching for the little rail to perch their feet on. And “perch” can also describe how I was sitting on the seat as well. The least comfortable seating I’ve ever experienced. If I sit at the bar I expect to be on a stool… but this? This was just weird. Seriously not relaxing as a dining experience.

Second, this is inside a hotel. That was not at all clear when I made the reservation on OpenTable. And was very confusing when I arrived, as there was zero signage with the restaurant name on it… I had to actually check google maps a couple more times, then entered the hotel lobby to ask. Again: weird.

Third: their staff, while totally friendly, were just…. awkward. I’m chalking it up to the pandemic and probable difficulty in finding seasoned staff. Again, they were very nice, they got a nice tip… but they just didn’t quite know what to do or say… or how to say it. The woman who refilled my water would awkwardly stand, carafe hovering above my glass… looking uncomfortable, until I answered “yes” I would like more water. (This is also a CA thing, due to the terrible drought you only get water in request).

The food was fine, nothing to write home about, but it was fine.

I will...

Okay, read this review fully if you have a chance. I was torn whether to give 4 or 5 stars… 4.3 might be ideal. But I chose to give 5 stars because I know how much a early lower review can change the rankings. Back to the review:

Yes, it is rather hidden and kind of in a strange location. You must enter the hotel to go to the restaurant. Once you are in, is really well decorated and well laid out.

Our waitress was great and attentive. We ordered the rolls and the broiled oysters to start. Rolls were great and the oysters could have been a little more cooked; still good though. Our first drinks took a while to come out, but we later found out the normal bartender was not there and they were training a new bartender. It was quite exciting that the head chef (and also seemed to be running the entire operation) brought out our drinks. We then got the French onion soup and it was very well done! Lastly, the whole reason we came was the burger… and man oh man the burger was sensational!! The fries were also fantastic. Get this Burger, best on the Peninsula!

For whatever lacking there was in the service (primarily the bartending) the wonder attitudes and welcoming staff made us feel at home.

I hope more people go and I hope more people love their burgers. To all the Carmel locals: cross the 1 and go over and try this fun...