We had reservations and were seated right away. The service is top notch, the staff were attentive and prompt. The food was delicious and the portions are very generous.

Clam chowder is one of my favorite foods and this is the best I've ever had. We ordered it in a garlic bread bowl. The cod was perfectly pan fried. It was my birthday so we were given a delicious cheesecake. The service was great, they were very nice and attentive. It was quiet and nicely decorated inside. The bathroom was clean and very nice. Overall so happy I came here for my birthday!

One of the best clam chowder I've had in Northern Cal. Just don't get it in a bread bowl because the bread is way too thick and doughy and won't break down easily even if you have excellent knife skills. Also I don't think it's sourdough bread. Get the clam chowder in a cup or bowl.
The Aquarium's restaurant has clam chowder that's just as good inside a thinner, more manageable sourdough bread bowl.

Friendly, attentive service. We had to order the clam chowder. It does not disappoint! Light, creamy, the perfect amount of clams.
Nice touch with giving us roses as we left.

I am a very picky clam chowder person, but I have to say this clam chowder was very good. We had a very nice dinner, loved my expresso martini. I had fried shrimp, which I liked the size of the shrimp but they were a bit fishy, so I wouldn't say it was bad but I did notice it. My husband loved his drink and he really enjoyed his Salmon and couscous. 1st time here and glad we came, they did not disappoint.

Just went there again, same great qualities and even greater service, hint locally caught fish is extremely good (as well as anything else)

My husband and I enjoyed our dinner at the Grotto with a cup of clam chowder and the crab cakes for the starter. Then we got the cheif special, swordfish and ened our night by ordering the creme brulée . Food and our desert was amazing. Great service , our server Brad was friendly and helpful. A Quiet place to enjoy your intimate dinner.

Chose this restaurant among the many, many options at Monterey's Fisherman's Wharf as this is widely hailed as one of the best in the area. True enough, the food is tops! My boyfriend and I both had clam chowder for starters. (I honestly think one could not visit Central Coast and not have clam chowder--it's the best I have tasted!) We then each had our plate of Twin Lobster Tails - over broiled and served with clarified butter, couscous and some vegetables. It was divine!

One great thing is right after our meal, they passed around a platter of yummy desserts that we can just choose from (no waiting); but since we already had an all day eating spree, we skipped dessert.

The place has classy interiors --low ceilinged but relaxing enough-- and they were very, very packed and busy that night, proof that they are indeed the most popular dining place in the area. Our server, Giovani, was very courteous and professional.

A few years ago, superb atmosphere, older restaurant good Low lighting, house wine great, seafood and steak yummy, good portions and good prices. Staff friendly, reserve early at least two days in advance for favorable times/days.