The past year and a half has made just about every element of life exponentially harder. But finding authentic Mediterranean flavors in Monterey? Essentially impossible. As life rolls on though, the notion of savoring sun-drenched cuisine is absolutely on the table. And you know what? You’re ready. After months of bland takeout and disappointing imitations, the idea of putting yourself out there and tasting what happens sounds downright incredible. So let’s get to it.
Dametra Cafe
$$ | (831) 622-7766 | WEBSITE
At first glance, Dametra Cafe looks and feels like many other good Mediterranean spots around town. There’s a varied selection of Greek and Turkish dishes, a relaxed interior that feels like a cozy taverna right as the evening is starting to warm up, and generous portions of food you want to be eating while sipping California wines. But what makes this Monterey spot great is the actual atmosphere that unfolds at night.
No hesitation is too much hesitation, even if your friend asks if they should join the drumming circle. As far as the food goes, the Greek Lamb Shank is a standout. It’s tender, flavorful, and comes with perfectly cooked vegetables. We also loved the Moussaka with its rich layers, and though it’s always on the menu, be sure to save room for the lively music and dancing. It’ll be the perfect test to see how good your evening is at turning into an unforgettable experience.
Fandango Restaurant
$$$ | (831) 372-3456 | WEBSITE
Typically, the phrase ‘special occasion restaurant’ makes me think of stuffy places with tiny portions and sky-high prices, but Fandango Restaurant is the delightful exception. This Mediterranean gem in Monterey has that authentic Basque atmosphere with assorted small dining rooms that feel cozy and intimate—perfect for celebrations. The food is consistently delicious, with standout dishes like the scallop specials, Osso Buco, and Pierre’s famous lamb.
Portions are large and satisfying, and the attentive staff ensures your glass stays full without being intrusive. For around $40-50 per entrée, you get exceptional value, especially with the notable wine list at fair prices. The Grand Marnier soufflé for dessert is a must-try—rich, flavorful, and reasonably priced. Overall, Fandango provides that ideal balance of quiet ambiance and great food for a night out or special occasion, making it highly recommended in the Monterey area.
International Cuisine
$$ | (831) 375-9999 | WEBSITE
Sure, you haven’t had a proper date night in months and have only been surviving on takeout containers, but you both know it – you deserve something special. Time to celebrate. While there are plenty of reliable spots for casual dinners around town, you’re in the mood for something welcoming. Go to International Cuisine.
A meal at this popular Mediterranean restaurant in Monterey will certainly be affordable (most dishes range from $12-22 per person), but if you’re looking for that kind of value, International Cuisine completely delivers on its promise. You’ll eat things like perfectly seasoned falafel wraps, generous gyros plates with fresh toppings, and tender chicken shawarma that’s been marinating all day.
The cozy space also has plenty of indoor and outdoor seating to go around, making the entire experience feel like you’re dining in your own comfortable living room even though you’re at a restaurant with ample parking.
Carmel’s Bistro Giovanni
$$ | (831) 626-6003 | WEBSITE
Mediterranean restaurants have always been great for family gatherings, and there’s no point in breaking the mold now. If you’re in Monterey, head to Carmel’s Bistro Giovanni. This excellent neighborhood bistro in Carmel recently impressed with its lively Saturday night atmosphere, plus impressive murals that add to the ambiance throughout the dining room.
Wherever you end up sitting, know you’re in great hands with a staff who’ll happily accommodate your large group with grace while you enjoy Mama’s Spaghetti and delicious muscles and clams.
Yafa
$$ | (831) 624-9232 | WEBSITE
You might be thinking that a Mediterranean spot in Monterey is just another hummus-and-pita joint, but this isn’t your average falafel counter. After stepping inside, the cozy yet elegant dining room comes adorned with warm lighting, rustic décor, and big comfy booths ideal for making you feel completely relaxed. We like the lamb tagine with fluffy couscous or the mezze platter, but if you aren’t all that hungry, stick to a glass of wine and an order of dolmas.
International Market & Deli
$ | (831) 375-9451 | WEBSITE
This cozy neighborhood market is one of our favorite lunch spots not just in Monterey, but all of the Central Coast. They’ve expanded to a new location on Lighthouse, so expect lots of great Mediterranean goods, affordable homemade dishes like shawarma and Greek chicken Caesar salad, and plenty of seating to keep you from becoming, as your friends put it, “a hungry nightmare.” Parking is highly encouraged.
Enzo
$$ | (831) 624-6545 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in Carmel, Enzo is a cozy Italian spot with a vibe that includes a warm and toasty dog-friendly patio, the option to dine indoors by a lovely fire, and your family realizing that driving out here was absolutely worth it. The menu is filled with classics like spaghetti carbonara that’s as good as in Rome, potato pesto gnocchi, and sea bass, but keep an eye on their specials, as the crab ravioli and lamb osso buco are must-tries.
Make sure you get involved with their excellent wine selections, mostly Italian, as well.
The Grill on Ocean Ave, Carmel by the Sea
$$ | (831) 574-8691 | WEBSITE
On paper, you’re technically trying a new restaurant. In reality, you’ve heard all about their famous short ribs and risotto and passed the research phase weeks ago. Skip the predictable chain spots and head down to The Grill on Ocean Ave. This cozy Mediterranean spot in Carmel by the Sea is one of our favorite weekend escapes on the coast and a perfect way to see if a place can deliver both flavor and comfort.
We recommend leaving yourself some extra time to stroll the charming village before your meal, and then head inside, order up some bacon-free clam chowder and that praised prawns and fettuccine, and settle into the welcoming atmosphere.
Portabella
$$ | (831) 624-4395 | WEBSITE
This charming Mediterranean spot in Carmel is dog-friendly, delightful, and a great option when you’re excited to go on a casual lunch or special dinner where the connection has everything to do with the lovely atmosphere. The menu is filled with dishes like creamy crab and corn chowder, a delicate, flavorful carpaccio, and some really incredible mushroom soup. And, unlike other charming places in the neighborhood, you’ll only need about two dishes per person since the portions are satisfying.
Petra Restaurant
$$ | (831) 649-2530 | WEBSITE
The fact that you’re craving something authentic but don’t want to deal with a stuffy dining room has you scrolling endlessly. A proper sit-down meal? With table service? Too much effort. The good news is you can head to Petra instead. This family-run Mediterranean spot in Monterey is the perfect place for a casual meal when you want to relax without any pretense.
The interior is clean and cozy with charming art on the walls, so we recommend grabbing a table (the incredible falafel and Petra platter are essentials) and then enjoying everything there at a leisurely pace before exploring the neighborhood together.
Petra Cafe
$ | (831) 646-2080 | WEBSITE
While it would work for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, Petra Cafe is the ideal Mediterranean spot in downtown Monterey. For starters, it’s literally in the heart of the action – in a small and cozy space off the busy streets. The atmosphere will inevitably make you feel like a local, and the food, well, it’ll make you feel that much more at home. Dishes include standout flavors, like juicy meats and amazing tzatziki. Likewise, the Mediterranean menu is full of delights.
The gyros come crispy and flavorful, and the vegetarian combo is accompanied by delicious hummus. Stop by for a bite and a meal, and if nothing else, you’ll have discovered a great new favorite.
LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110
$$ | (831) 655-0515 | WEBSITE
Few spots capture the sunset magic quite like LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill. This elegant Hotel 1110 destination is a perfect special-occasion choice when the idea of a standard dinner feels too mundane. While our move is to always snag a table near the heaters, sipping Northern Lights cocktails, and watching the sky turn fiery, their entire rooftop still dazzles and will easily prove if your evening deserves that extra sparkle or not.
Sea Root
$$ | (831) 657-6588 | WEBSITE
The trouble with hotel dining is often the feeling of being trapped in a generic space with predictable food. One simple solution? A view that actually matters. And that’s just one of many reasons you should try Sea Root. The restaurant has a lovely ambiance with views of the golf course, a Mediterranean-inspired menu featuring standout items like avocado toast at breakfast and a sizable steak at dinner, and attentive service from staff members like Michael and the bartender.
So when you’re wondering if hotel restaurants can ever feel special, you can just focus on your delicious flatbread and excellent cocktails instead.
Treehouse Café
$$ | (831) 626-1111 | WEBSITE
Treehouse Café is a delightful Mediterranean spot in Carmel that feels like a hidden gem worth discovering. Expect Greek-inspired dishes that are both delicious and healthy, with standout items like the fantastic dolma, delicious chicken kabobs, and must-try lasagna that’s almost like being in Italy. The beautiful terrace offers a cozy and lively ambiance perfect for showing off how relaxed you and your companion feel together.
If you’re the kind of person who appreciates fast, accommodating service from helpful and sensitive staff, make a visit to Treehouse Café. They’ll even celebrate your special occasions with delicious baklava for dessert.
