Photo Credit: Old Fisherman's Grotto
Clam chowder is a must-have when visiting the Monterey Peninsula. From restaurants in Cannery Row, Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and throughout the County, you will be sure to be satisfied with this delicious filling comfort food. We have narrowed down some clam chowder favorites to add to your dining itinerary!
A.W. Shucks Cocktail & Oyster Bar
This cocktail and oyster bar in Carmel-by-the-Sea offers three different kinds of clam chowder. There is New England (white) and Manhattan (red). Still not sure which one you should try? Why not try the Rosé which is a special blend of both! Available in a cup, bowl, or quart.
Dametra Cafe
Experience great Mediterranean food in a fun inviting atmosphere! Start your meal with a cup or bowl of their clam chowder. Be prepared, you might even feel the need to get up and dance while you're there!
Flaherty’s Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar
Photo Credit: Flaherty's
All about seafood and sustainability, this seafood grill and oyster bar offers signature New England and Manhattan clam chowders in a cup, bowl, or bread bowl. Another great soup is the West Coast Crab Chowder which also has the option to come in a bread bowl.
Jack’s Monterey
This California Cultural Cuisine located inside the Portola Hotel and Spa brings local ingredients and high-quality seafood to the table! Try Jack’s Famous clam chowder made with clams, Dungeness crab, organic corn, artichoke hearts, and bacon in a bowl or a cup.
Lalla Grill Oceanside
Enjoy chowder and a view. Locally owned and using the freshest organic ingredients, you are bound to enjoy every bite. Lalla Grill Oceanside offers chowder in a cup, bowl, or delicious toasted bread bowl.
Old Fisherman's Wharf
Take a stroll along the Old Fisherman's Wharf where there are plenty of shopping, dining, and sightseeing opportunities! Serving seafood, steaks, and Italian cuisine, you will be sure to leave full and satisfied! You can never pass up the opportunity to visit the wharf without getting some clam chowder! As you enter, Crabby Jim's serves lunch and dinner with anything from salads, burgers, and seafood. Add a cup of clam chowder to your meal for an additional charge. A couple of steps away is the Old Fisherman's Grotto. Enjoy fresh sustainable seafood and amazing views, but don't forget the clam chowder though! The Original "Monterey Style" clam chowder was made here and offered in either a cup, bowl, bread bowl, or even a delicious garlic butter toasted bread bowl! Some other great options to try on the wharf is Abalonetti Bar & Grill's and Rockfish Harbor Grill's creamy clam chowder in a cup, bowl, or sourdough bread bowl.
Pangaea Grill
With its combination of Western and Eastern dishes, indulge in menu items like a Rack of Lamb or Korean Short Ribs after enjoying a cup or bowl of New England Clam Chowder.
Phil's Fish Market
Now located in Castroville, Phil's Fish Market serves New England (white) or Manhattan (red) clam chowder ranging from size small to large. You can also get "Chowder-in-a-Bun" which comes with pint-sized (medium) chowder in a sourdough bun.
Schooners Monterey
Photo Credit: Schooners Monterey
Located at the Monterey Plaza Hotel and Spa, embrace the ocean views from its heated outdoor patio with a warm Coastal Clam Chowder Bread Bowl. Schooners also has a raw bar and offers a large variety of signature cocktails and wine list.
The C restaurant + bar
Located in Cannery Row at the InterContinental The Clement Monterey Hotel, enjoy New England clam chowder with littleneck clams, applewood smoked bacon, and an ocean view. Look out, you might see marine life sightings while you’re there!
The Fish Hopper
In addition to the Old Fisherman’s Grotto, The Fish Hopper is another great way to try the “Monterey style” clam chowder, but this version comes with a twist! For an extra cost, add crab meat or shrimp in a cup, bowl, or bread bowl.
The Grill at Point Pinos
In between the 9th and 10th holes at the Pacific Grove Golf Links is The Grill at Point Pinos. Try their Monterey Bay Clam Chowder that is slowly simmered with herbs, bacon, and served with a side of delicious cheesy garlic bread!
Vivolo's Chowder House
Photo Credit: Vivolo's Chowder House
Serving locals and visitors for over 30 years, Vivolo's Chowder House in Pacific Grove offers freshly made New England clam chowder daily. Enjoy in a cup, bowl, or upgrade to a bread bowl topped with a spectacular garlic cheese lid!
Woody's Restaurant & Bar at Monterey Regional Airport
Conveniently located at the Monterey Regional Airport, Woody's is the perfect place to have a bite or drink before or after your flight. Overlooking the Runway and Monterey Bay, you will be sure to have an unforgettable dining experience. There is a bar along with a variety of menus from breakfast, brunch, and dinner! Classic New England Clam Chowder (East Coast Woody's Style) is available in a cup or bowl. Woody's is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year, and was recently named number 1 in USA Today's 10Best as the best sit-down restaurant for travelers.
No matter where you choose to get your clam chowder, you will be sure to get a special taste of Monterey County you won’t forget.
You can visit all the best places to get clam chowder in Monterey County by downloading our See Monterey App and exploring the trail of "Where to Find the Best Clam Chowder in Monterey County!"
