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Monterey is known for its views. That's why finding a restaurant with great outdoor seating is so exciting when visiting this little slice of California heaven! Don't book your reservations until you've read this rundown of the best outdoor patio bars in Monterey.
London Bridge Pub
Enjoy exquisite wharf views while feasting on fish and chips at this pub-style restaurant that brings a touch of England to the West Coast! Some favorites on the menu include the rock cod, salmon, clam chowder, and house-made slaw. This dog-friendly restaurant also has one of the best beer collections in Monterey. If you come on an evening with a little chill in the air, you'll appreciate the "fire tables" on the deck.
Abolonetti Bar & Grill
Located on Monterey's Fisherman's Wharf, Abolonetti Bar & Grill combines great food with a lively atmosphere to offer one of the best seaside dining experiences you'll ever have. Abolonetti is truly a seafood lover's paradise! Locals know this spot for its incredible calamari dishes. However, visitors of all tastes can enjoy juicy steaks, handmade pizzas, and a world-class antipasto bar. The lobster ravioli definitely deserves some attention! If you love a cocktail, you won't hesitate to linger on the patio a little longer to order another fruity drink, glass of wine, or draft beer.
Dust Bowl Brewing Company
The Monterey Tap Depot located a stone's throw away from Fisherman's Wharf along the Monterey Recreation Trail is the place to enjoy the offerings of Dust Bowl Brewing in Monterey. This iconic building was once a bustling train station! Delight in 24 taps as you take in the fun, social vibe of this spot. When you move outside with your beer selection in hand, you'll find a large patio offering picnic tables, fire pits, heaters, and some games. While this spot doesn't serve food, you can take a quick hop over to the food trucks that park outside if you'd like to pair your beer with a meal or snack.
Melville Tavern
This popular eatery on Washington Street is the ultimate spot for finding satisfying comfort foods in Monterey! A menu with classic burgers, ribs, pasta, salads, and seafood awaits. There's also a large bar serving up a variety of beers, wines, and cocktails. Locals pile into this acclaimed restaurant for the sensational Melville Meatloaf served with tavern gravy, mashed potatoes, and vegetables. If you'll be in Monterey for a weekend, take advantage of the Saturday and Sunday brunches that offer upscale breakfast favorites with the option for bottomless mimosas from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Schooners Monterey
If you're looking for some fancy outdoor patio bars in Monterey, Schooners Monterey checks every box! This waterside gem located at the Monterey Plaza Hotel features a spacious heated waterfront terrace that lets you enjoy unobstructed views of the water while you dine. Guests will find a perfectly curated menu that leans heavily on quality, carefully sourced seafood. The seafood towers at Schooners Monterey are piled high with oysters, crab claws, steamed mussels, and poached shrimp. There's also a legendary raw bar!
Don't Miss the Views of Monterey
Everything tastes better with a view! If your love for the water extends beyond just finding a spot by the wharf to eat, there's one special thing to know before you finish planning your trip. Did you know that there's a collection of Monterey tide pools? These natural pools offer some of the best spots for seeing coastal wildlife. Spending time at local tide pools is also a free activity that will satisfy your desire for adventure while leaving some room in your budget for a special meal at one of the outdoor patio bars in Monterey.
