Like most fast-food drive-thrus and those pre-formed patties in supermarket freezer aisles, Monterey’s burger scene is criminally overlooked. Those sad, shrink-wrapped discs from chain restaurants might have something to do with it. The good news is, Monterey’s coastline hides gems crafting incredible burgers that each deserve their own culinary trophy. Never settle for mediocre beef again.
Mundos Sandwich & Burger House Webster St
$ | (831) 920-1400 | WEBSITE
Like most items at this family-run Monterey spot, where locals in flip-flops swing by for Latin-inspired sandwiches and tacos on grilled ciabatta, the Argentinian Tri Tip sandwich isn’t fancy. If it helps, just think of it as a steal. Juicy, savory, and tender as slow-cooked beef, the $12 sandwich is served on a soft ciabatta roll, with lettuce, tomatoes, onion, and a house sauce that tastes like a tangy chimichurri spread.
Del Monte & grill & cafe
$ | (831) 920-2997 | WEBSITE
Del Monte & Grill & Cafe’s fried calamari is notably crisp, tender, and perfectly seasoned. If you’re ever in Monterey on a weekend morning, stop by and order some with their pancakes. You’ll have front-row seats to some prime people watching, à la the local breakfast crowd and travelers exploring the area. After your calamari, consider a steak quesadilla.
El Estero Snack Bar
$ | (831) 372-8446 | WEBSITE
Just walking up to this snack bar in Monterey feels like discovering a secret. The counter is simple and unassuming, and it smells like they might have a grill going all day. El Estero Snack Bar has been in the park for years, and they serve several different kinds of burgers. But the cheeseburger is the one you want. It has the juicy quality of a great patty, but it’s more affordable. The thoughtful staff balances things out nicely.
First Awakenings
$ | (831) 372-1125 | WEBSITE
This Monterey spot, located within easy walking distance from Cannery Row, serves consistently delicious food that features fresh flavors. The menu includes a wide variety of breakfast items, salads, and sandwiches, such as the green chile burrito and the Reuben sandwich. You’ll enjoy the peaceful ambiance and the spacious patio area, which is perfect for dining, especially on warm and sunny days. The inside is nicely laid out with great parking, and the outdoor seating is lovely.
If you’re lucky, you might catch a sunny morning where the whole place feels like a cozy retreat. Overall, First Awakenings remains a solid choice for a satisfying meal in a welcoming atmosphere.
Melville Tavern
$$ | (831) 643-9525 | WEBSITE
Skip the crowds at the tourist traps and head a few blocks from the Pacific to Melville Tavern when you’re in the mood for a great burger and local beer. This relaxed, dog-friendly outdoor spot is operated with genuine feel, and whether or you’re here for sports or brunch, anything from the wood fire oven is going to satisfy—from classic bar staples to unique options like duck or lamb that come in generous portions.
SUR Burger
$ | (831) 241-6064 | WEBSITE
Now that there’s a spot in Monterey, you no longer need to search the whole coast for a truly satisfying burger experience. This lively restaurant serves hearty 1/2lb burgers with fish, beef, and chicken options, plus chili dogs and vegetarian choices like the Veggie Burger. You can grab your meal to go, but we like taking a moment to sit at the wooden tables and benches, enjoying the comfortable atmosphere while the friendly staff accommodates groups efficiently.
The salmon steak sandwiches come grilled to crispy perfection, and the fully customizable combos include drinks at reasonable prices. While some items like the garlic fries receive mixed reviews, the overall value and generous portions make this a popular spot for burger enthusiasts and those on dates. The clean environment features a collection of unique world currency bills on the wall, adding character to this perfect place for a quick, flavorful meal with friends.
The Burger Den
$$ | (831) 372-0160 | WEBSITE
The first bite is surprising. You lift the hefty burger toward your mouth, and what you encounter is juicy and substantial. Just keep eating. The Burger Den, the Monterey establishment offering build-it-yourself burgers within Denny’s, serves their creations with impressive quality and presentation. Think fast food, but better. Throughout, there’s a satisfying combination of fresh ingredients and careful assembly, and a size that keeps you coming back for more.
American Burger
$ | (831) 373-7573 | WEBSITE
This classic diner-style burger joint in Monterey serves one of the area’s greatest bacon avocado burgers, and, when you’re in the mood for seafood, a pretty noteworthy Monterey burger as well. It’s incredibly juicy with a hint of grilled onion, balanced out by a big plop of thick, creamy avocado, and topped with crispy bacon. If you’re looking for something classic, we also love their cheeseburger, which is a straightforward patty with melted cheese on it.
Islands Restaurant Monterey
$$ | (831) 655-1552 | WEBSITE
Grabbing a burger at Islands Restaurant Monterey is a whole experience. There’s usually a steady stream of locals and visitors inside, but you’ll rarely have to wait long thanks to the efficient service. When you settle in, be sure to order the Hula burger with sweet potato fries. The burger comes with crispy fries that stay perfectly crunchy as you eat, and the friendly servers make sure your drink stays refilled throughout the meal.
3 Mundos Sandwich Shop
$ | (831) 718-8131 | WEBSITE
For years, locals have flocked to this unassuming sandwich shop in Monterey for the Argentinian tri-tip and chicken Melanese. But any time of day, their Philly Cheesesteak and baked turkey sandwiches are the main draw. The ‘freshness’ in question comes from the bread, which tastes like a crunchy roll that’s been baked just hours before serving.
