75 YEARS IN THE MAKING
TRUE FINE DINING EXPERIENCE
We proudly serve the best Clam Chowder
Consistently, Old Fisherman’s Grotto has been recognized as the champion of Clam Chowder. Over the past two decades, the Grotto’s clam chowder has remained at the forefront in Monterey, consistently vying for the title of the best clam chowder.
Testimonials
From our Visitors
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!
read moreread less
Mallory J.
12/06/2024
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.
The Aquarium's restaurant has clam chowder that's just as good inside a thinner, more manageable sourdough bread bowl.
read moreread less
Truman W.
12/04/2024
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.
read moreread less
Elisa A.
12/01/2024
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.
read moreread less
Mona A.
12/01/2024
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.
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.
read moreread less
Gen G.
11/30/2024
Book Your Table