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75 YEARS IN THE MAKING
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TRUE FINE DINING EXPERIENCE
Consistently, Old Fisherman’s Grotto has been recognized as the champion of Clam Chowder. Over the past two decades, the Grotto’s clam chowder has remained at the forefront in Monterey, consistently vying for the title of the best clam chowder.



Testimonials
from our visitors
The Ultimate Pasta was absolutely delicious, and the paella was just as amazing. Both dishes came with huge lobsters and very generous portions.
The only downside was the 30-minute wait, but honestly, the food was so good that it was totally worth it. We also tried other dishes, and everything was tasty--the clam chowder was especially great.
The interior has a charming, traditional feel that makes the place really special. Sitting right by the ocean gave us a beautiful view, which made the experience even better.
The servers were attentive and kind, and I found the prices to be very reasonable. The owner, dressed in a suit, personally greeted and checked on guests, which was a really nice touch.
When it was time to pay, they gave each woman at the table a fresh rose, which made me so happy--I almost tipped 100%! My husband loved it too.
Out of our 3 days in Monterey, this was definitely the best meal we had. Thank you so much! Even after returning to LA, I still can't stop thinking about the pasta and lobster. Wishing your business continued success!
The only downside was the 30-minute wait, but honestly, the food was so good that it was totally worth it. We also tried other dishes, and everything was tasty--the clam chowder was especially great.
The interior has a charming, traditional feel that makes the place really special. Sitting right by the ocean gave us a beautiful view, which made the experience even better.
The servers were attentive and kind, and I found the prices to be very reasonable. The owner, dressed in a suit, personally greeted and checked on guests, which was a really nice touch.
When it was time to pay, they gave each woman at the table a fresh rose, which made me so happy--I almost tipped 100%! My husband loved it too.
Out of our 3 days in Monterey, this was definitely the best meal we had. Thank you so much! Even after returning to LA, I still can't stop thinking about the pasta and lobster. Wishing your business continued success!
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Hyojoo L.
4/01/2026
We went to the cafe not the restaurant. Luis and Rose are fantastic, they make you feel like family. Everyone is so welcoming and goes above and beyond. For example, we wanted oysters and Luis made a mignonette for me that wasn't on the menu. It was one of the best I've ever had!
They had AMAZING clam chowder my kid tried it for the first time and LOVED it . They were super accommodating and tended to the many needs of our family (3 generations)! five stars across the board
P.S I want to give a shout out to the big restaurant, the servers carried the plates filled with food up the stairs which was not easy and done with a smile!
Both restaurants had a great vibe, we recommend.
They had AMAZING clam chowder my kid tried it for the first time and LOVED it . They were super accommodating and tended to the many needs of our family (3 generations)! five stars across the board
P.S I want to give a shout out to the big restaurant, the servers carried the plates filled with food up the stairs which was not easy and done with a smile!
Both restaurants had a great vibe, we recommend.
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Allegra H.
4/01/2026
The service was attentive, non intrusive, top notched. Our service team was cohesive, well times. They even gave me a rose at the end of tte meal:) the food was incredible! Great Captains plate meal was so good. We had a lovely western sunset table view... lovely. We would come back in a heart beat. Thank you for the rose:)
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Tara T.
4/01/2026
I had the best lobster tail I've ever tasted! The staff went out of their way to make sure everything was just right. The cozy yet classy atmosphere made the meal special. The drinks were great, and the dessert was a highlight. I highly recommend this place for seafood lovers.
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Alfred T.
3/31/2026
Good clam chowder and fish is cooked well. Wish we got to sit next to the water instead of having a view of the pier and feet. Nice customer service and we appreciated the constant water and ice tea refills. Would recommend getting the specials or the grilled platter to try a bunch of different seafood.
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Eleanor C.
3/31/2026
Amazing as always!! The view, ambiance and menu did not disappoint. We love when our server is Angel! He has been consistently great with recommendations, very personable and attentive without being intrusive. The food is fresh, clean and delicious. Their pistachio crusted ling cod was very fresh, delicate, and the crunchy crust wasn't oily. Start to finish everything was perfect!
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Stephanie P.
3/29/2026
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.
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.
read moreread less
palatechica
3/29/2026
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