Yelp

We've been eating here for at least 25 years and never had anything less than a 5-star experience. The food is exceptional and the staff are some of the best in the industry. Once you have their calamari you'll be spoiled. Tender, lightly breaded filets, no chewy rings! We have favorite items and make the drive from San Jose at least once a month to enjoy them. I get the cold crab sandwich and my husband gets the hot crab sandwich. No matter what season it is, the crab is better than any we've had anywhere on the SF Peninsula. The cold crab sandwich shines in it's simplicity and is served on sliced sourdough with mayonnaise and lettuce, pickles and red onions on the side. The hot crab sandwich is served on a buttery, garlicky roll topped with bechamel... both are dreamy. Mr. Shake is almost always on hand and has done an amazing job continuing his family's legacy. Like us, once you've eaten here you won't want to eat anywhere else.

Food was delicious and quick. We loved the salad and the surf and turf . We also ordered clam chowder and fried calamari. Giovanni our server was friendly and funny. Definitely will come back

Best clam chowder ever . Seafood pasta is also very popular. They have amazing drinks and great service .

I've been coming here for over 20 years and it's the best chowder on the wharf in my opinion. Probably the best chowder I've had in California or even the whole world to be honest. I actually introduced my friend in college (Saint Mary's College in Moraga, 2 hours away), one is actually from Salinas, one from Texas, and I'm from the East Bay Area, and because of me, she started bringing it from home to college for him after school breaks, lol

The pasta is good too but the chowder is the best value in my opinion. And I always had good service here and the inside and outside are both very nice. As someone from the bay area I find the prices very good!

In Old Monterey at the Fisherman's wharf. Waited about 20-30 minutes to be seated since we were walk-ins. Dined looking out into the waterfront. We ordered a salad, seafood pasta and choppino. We were surprised by the quantity of food given. The service was excellent! Our waitress was kind and checked in with us during the meal. A lot of other families eating their dinner around us. The other waiter was shocked to see us finish all of the food; he said he never seen anybody not bring leftovers from the choppino. Would come back!

Ladies are given a rose after dining. 🙂 cute!

Locals menu was amazing!!!!
View was beautiful! Great service! Will be coming again soon!!

Always a favorite anytime were in Monterey! Last weeks visit, we had Brad as our server for dinner. He made the best suggestions, crab cake, oysters, etc., and even though we couldn't eat another bite, somehow we got the double chocolate cheesecake that was Gluten Free!

Hands down, my favorite clam chowder in Monterey! I tried 3 different clam chowders on our weekend trip, and Old Fisherman's Grotto was by far our favorite (my husband agreed too since I let him try all of them).

Old Fisherman's Grotto is located in the middle of Fisherman's wharf. I think we happened to go right when it opened for lunch since it was pretty empty. They seated us by the window, with a nice view of the bay. The staff was friendly and attentive, which was greatly appreciated. My husband ordered the fish and chips, I ordered their clam chowder with the garlic bread bowl. The garlic bread bowl was a bit messy - probably not the best to eat on a date since the crumbs flew everywhere, but it was so tasty with the chowder! Husband thought that the fish and chips were ok - I think he thought it would be more beer battered instead of panko crusted like.

The restaurant filled up by the time we were about to leave - there were people waiting to be seated too! I'd go early or make a reservation if possible.

Nice dinner and evening at Old Fisherman's Grotto. Really enjoyed the ambience and service. We were provided a prime table spot with a nice view. (Always helps to reserve for a "special occasion")

Our hotel provided us a free appetizer so we took advantage. Went with half calamari and half grilled artichokes to sample. Both were great. Really enjoyed each aioli, tartar and cocktail sauces that came out. Obviously all house made.

Entrees we had ultimate seafood risotto and halibut with prawns. Lots of yummy seafood on each. Halibut was a nice filet and that crust was fiiiiiire. Veggies and sweet potato were cooked well.

Dessert was a wonderful cheesecake. I could t finish it but I definitely tried. Nice spot for a meal.

7-Year Update: Still exceptional, incredible service, and the Captain's Grill is unmatched!
It's hard to believe it's been seven years since my last review, but Old Fisherman's Grotto is just as fantastic as ever--if not even a tad better!
We arrived at a peak time on a Sunday and got super lucky snagging the last immediate table, just as the couple behind us was given a wait time.
Here is why this spot remains a classic:
The Captain's Grill: I ordered the exact same dish I had seven years ago, and it did not disappoint. Every single element on the plate was cooked to absolute perfection, packed with flavor, and as fresh as it gets.
Outstanding Service: The service was wonderful across the board. Our server, Brad, was fantastic--attentive, friendly, and made sure we were completely taken care of throughout our meal.
Pro Tip: Skip trying to park right at the end of the pier. Park in the lots along the wharf entrance and enjoy the quick, scenic walk down to the restaurant!
I truly hope Old Fisherman's Grotto is still going strong for another seven years and beyond. A Monterey absolute staple!