TripAdvisor

My husband and I ended up in Monterrey at the end of a 4 park, California National Parks tour. This is only my 2nd time visiting Monterrey but we knew we were looking for some local fresh catch. I picked Old Fisherman's Grotto mainly because they claim to be the originators of the 'Monterrey style' clam chowder. Once we got there we were both enticed with the local catch specials instead. I got the macadamia crusted halibut with 2 large coconut shrimps. My husband, the pistachio crusted Cod with rice and a glass of Rodney Strong Cabernet. Everything was wonderful! Angel, our server, was a pro too. Attentive and very knowledgable about the menu, which is extensive. As if we'd have had room for dessert there was more than 10 options, all made in house. Maybe on another trip. The atmosphere is like an old school cozy, cocktails and steaks kind of a vibe overlooking the water.
We are here through tomorrow so we just may return to try their clam chowder in a bread bowl for lunch.

Great Anniversary Dinner. Great service and celebratory perks. Food was great!

I had done a search for the best clam chowder in Monterey and they are at the top of almost every list, and they were right! I got the clam chowder in the garlic sourdough bowl I highly recommend them! My wife, Michele got risotto with caramelized onions, shrimp and sole. We had a view of Monterey Bay and some sea lions playing. Our server, Giovanny, was phenomenal! He brought Michele a piece of complimentary cheesecake and a rose for her birthday. 🌹 I had the chocolate creme brûlée. Great start to our mini-vacay in Monterey!

Awesome food and ocean views! I highly recommend this place.

The food and the views were amazing!

The food was amazing and so was the service and we were celebrating our anniversary and they set up a beautiful white cloth with roses on the table. I would highly recommend making a reservation !! It was fabulous !!

Great atmosphere, located on the wharf with excellent view of the harbor. Fresh fish, great selection, friendly staff.

Make a reservation!
This place is a classic and it's SUPER popular.
For being by the water, and over 75yo this place does not smell musty. It's a clean place, with old would charm, helpful staff, and massive portions.

We'd return.
The bartender, Karen, is a magician. She nailed the Sidecar Which is VERY tough to make well (biion)

Other yummy cocktails: lemon drop, bloody Mary
Mocktail was fun for the kids.

Wharf platter is EASILY enough for 2 people. Calamari was nice and crispy. Cup of clam chowder was plenty AND lived up to the hype.

Good location, dark interior, varied menu. We went for a seafood boat. This was visually stunning and the scallops were outstanding. The main downside was feeling a little like we were on a conveyor belt. Staff were quick and helpful but overall lacked charm or making us feel truly welcomed and at leisure.

As long time locals, we know where to find the best clam chowder in the area, and this is it! It has been 30 years since I worked on the wharf in one of the candy shops and the clam chowder today is just as good as it was when I used to buy it for my lunch break, perhaps even better! This restaurant exudes old school hospitality in the best way possible. From the friendly employees out front that greet you, to the wait staff, to the hostesses, chefs, and bartenders, every person we have ever encountered here does their very best to ensure guests have a wonderful experience. You will never leave this restaurant without leftovers and a huge smile. It is our go favorite spot to take friends visiting from out of town for one reason, it is unfailingly reliable as a place for a wonderful, generously sized comfort meal served by an impeccably trained staff. We appreciate you all and we cannot recommend the Grotto highly enough!