As soon as we decided we were going to Monterey for my husband’s 30th birthday, I knew I was going to find a seafood restaurant so I could indulge in some decent crab. I had been craving it for months.
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I began searching for the best places to eat seafood in Monterey and I found The Old Fisherman’s Grotto on The Old Fisherman’s Wharf. It was only a short walk from where we were staying at The Monterey Hotel, so we decided we would eat dinner there. I love trying new restaurants and The Old Fisherman’s Grotto seemed to be “the place to go” on the Wharf.
We strolled down the wharf and found the bright yellow building that we were looking for. They also have an outdoor stand where they sell shrimp and crab cocktails, clam chowder, and a few other quick bites to eat. Great for if you don’t have time to stop in to eat, or if you want to continue exploring the Wharf.
Restaurant Entrance 
Walkup Shop
We stopped in to put our name down for a table and they had a short 10 minute wait. They gave us a pager and told us it would work all over the Wharf which was awesome! I tucked it in my back pocket and we walked to the end of the dock for a view of the bay. Then we walked back, exploring a shop or two before shortly being buzzed to come get seated for dinner.
Ambiance
When you walk in, the place transforms into what looks like an upscale steakhouse, dimly lit to set the mood. It’s quite a different feeling from the bright yellow walls and the bustling wharf. The tables by the windows offer views out into the harbor, and if you’re lucky you may be able to see an otter or two playing in the water below. We sat down and one of the waiters came over to light our candle. How cute! A candlelit dinner for my husband’s 30th!
One thing to note if you have children is that they have a no stroller, highchair, or booster seat policy. They also will ask that your child is well behaved in order to keep the ambiance. If you child is crying is crying, making loud noises, or causing a disruption in the dining area, you may be asked to leave.
The Menu
The Old Fisherman’s Grotto definitely has it’s fair share of seafood, including scallops, calamari, halibut, salmon, and shrimp. It also has a wide range of steaks to choose from, as well as a great selection of pastas. If you are looking for a lighter meal, they have a good selection of salads to choose from. However, if you’re really feeling hungry, try their King’s Meal that includes a 10 oz filet and two 6 oz lobster tails!
The Food
I naturally ordered my crab, which ended up being crab from Washington State. It was a half crab and came with a side of couscous and vegetables. It was actually my first time ever having couscous, and it was absolutely delicious. The crab was also everything my taste buds were looking for that evening. My husband got their original, award winning, “Monterey Style” clam chowder, and the 10oz filet mignon which also came with a twice baked potato and vegetables. His filet was cooked perfectly, and melted in your mouth. I stole a bit of it when he wasn’t looking! The food was super tasty and filled our stomachs after a long day of exploring.
The Service
The staff was quick to check on us, and super friendly. Our waiter was very attentive and our food came rather promptly for a Saturday night. The best part was the rose that was handed out to all the ladies after dinner. It was a nice touch to a wonderful dining experience.
Loved The After Dinner Rose!
Overall we had a delicious dinner at The Old Fisherman’s Grotto. It was a pleasant, relaxing environment after a busy day of exploring Monterey. I enjoyed our little dinner date before meeting up with our friends for the rest of my husband’s birthday evening.
Quick Facts
Old Fisherman’s Grotto
39 Fisherman’s Wharf . Monterey, California 93940
Phone 831.375.4604
http://www.oldfishermansgrotto.com/
* If you’re looking for a place to stay nearby, check out The Monterey Hotel that’s within walking distance to the Wharf. Right now my readers can use my Discount Code: Enter ‘Tammy’ in when booking to receive 35% off Sunday-Thursday stays in June & July. Read all about my stay there and why I loved this hotel!