Monterey County is constantly evolving with new restaurants, wineries, hotels, and activities. This spring add these new places to eat, sip, stay, and experience to your itinerary.
Dining and Drinking
Altura Lounge & Bistro
Altura Lounge & Bistro is a timeless Sicilian restaurant and lounge situated in Salinas. Indulge in the authentic taste of traditional Sicilian cuisine, crafted with locally-sourced fresh ingredients, and complemented by a distinct craft cocktail menu. The restaurant serves lunch on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 am to 2 pm, and dinner from Tuesday through Saturday, between 4:30 pm and 9 pm.
Kona Steak & Seafood
Come and experience Monterey’s latest addition to its culinary scene, a Hawaiian and Asian fusion restaurant offering quality steaks and seafood. Enjoy a wide selection of drinks from the full bar, The Zen Den, and cap off your meal with a visit to the Kona shave ice shack. Make sure to explore the Kona art and gift gallery as well! The restaurant is open daily from 11 am to 9:30 pm.
Maligne
Maligne has reopened after closing for 2 weeks to revamp its menu and other additions. Although the menu remains the same, there are some minor changes giving the restaurant more of a local bistro feel rather than an upscale seafood restaurant. Additions include lunch and backyard patio seating next to the oak-fired oven. Maligne is open Wednesday through Saturday 5:30 pm to 9:45 pm and Sunday Brunch from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm.
Shearwater Tavern
Shearwater Tavern, the signature restaurant at Carmel Mission Inn, has debuted its all-new menus courtesy of the property’s newly appointed Executive Chef Fabian Di Paolo. The menus offer flavors of the world’s most celebrated culinary regions including Spain, Portugal, Italy, and even the Caribbean. Guests of Shearwater Tavern will be treated to a diverse, upscale, yet approachable dining experience. Shearwater Tavern is open for breakfast Monday to Friday from 7 am to 10 am and Saturday and Sunday from 7 am to 11 pm. Dinner is served Tuesday-Saturday 4 pm to 10 pm.
Wildfish Happy Hour
Now offering a late happy hour from 8 pm to 9 pm daily, where you can enjoy inspired and imaginatively prepared food that is 100% organic and locally sourced several times a week. The freshest seafood will be on your plate.
Lodging
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa has undergone some exciting changes in its guest rooms! Guests can now enjoy a new and refreshed look that features new carpet, bedding, artwork, and more. The new design is inspired by the serene coastal setting of Monterey Bay, which is perfect for spring.
Spindrift Inn
Nestled in the heart of Cannery Row just steps away from the Monterey Bay, the Spindrift Inn has updated its 45 guestrooms with new floral pattern rugs, updated furniture, and contemporary bedding design.
Activities
Ocean-to-Table Experience
If you're a foodie and a nature lover, you won't want to miss the Big Sur Salts tour! This 5-hour tour takes you along the stunning coast of Big Sur to learn about the natural environment that creates sea salt. You'll discover how sea salt crystals form. Afterward, head back to town and enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant that uses Big Sur Salt in their dishes. Finally, you'll get to create your own salt blend to take home as a unique souvenir of your experience.
Handcar Tours
Looking for fun with your friends and family? Consider booking a tour with Handcar Tours! This six-mile-long guided tour will take you across the historic railroad tracks of Fort Ord State Park. This is a great way to be active and create lasting memories.
Yoga in the Vines
Relax and recharge with a Sunday morning yoga session in the vineyards at Folktale Winery & Vineyards. Led by Seaside Sanctuary Yoga, the class is designed to have everyone in mind. Whether a beginner or an already seasoned yogi, this is a great opportunity to deeply connect with mind and body. Reservations can be made directly through the Seaside Sanctuary Yoga website.
