Discovering Monterey's Top Bars: Sipping Your Way Through the Best Spots in Town

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Discover the best bars in Monterey, from oceanfront venues to historic haunts. Sip on craft cocktails and local wines while enjoying stunning views.


Monterey, California is a charming coastal city that attracts visitors from all over the world. Known for its stunning coastline, historical landmarks, and delicious seafood, Monterey is also home to some of the best bars in the state. Whether you're looking for a laid-back dive bar or a trendy cocktail lounge, Monterey has something for everyone. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the top bars in Monterey and what makes them so special.

First on our list is the Cannery Row Brewing Company, located in the heart of Monterey's famous Cannery Row. This spacious brewpub offers a rotating selection of craft beers, along with a full menu of delicious pub fare. With its lively atmosphere and prime location, the Cannery Row Brewing Company is a must-visit for beer lovers and foodies alike.

If you're in the mood for something a little more upscale, head over to the Sardine Factory. This iconic restaurant and bar has been a fixture in Monterey since 1968, and it's easy to see why. With its elegant decor, extensive wine list, and expertly crafted cocktails, the Sardine Factory is the perfect spot for a romantic date night or a sophisticated evening out with friends.

For a more laid-back vibe, check out the Bulldog British Pub. This cozy bar is known for its friendly staff, live music, and impressive selection of beers on tap. Whether you're a fan of traditional English ales or local California brews, the Bulldog has something to satisfy your taste buds.

If you're looking for a unique experience, consider visiting Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill. This innovative brewery and restaurant is known for its creative beer flavors and inventive dishes, like the bacon-wrapped dates and the Korean chicken wings. With its industrial-chic decor and bustling atmosphere, Alvarado Street is a great place to gather with friends and enjoy some truly unique food and drink.

For a taste of old-school Monterey charm, head over to the Mucky Duck. This cozy dive bar has been a local favorite for over 30 years, and it's not hard to see why. With its eclectic decor, friendly regulars, and affordable drinks, the Mucky Duck is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of sightseeing or catch up with friends over a pint or two.

Another must-visit bar in Monterey is the Cibo Ristorante Italiano. This stylish Italian restaurant and bar serves up classic cocktails and delicious Italian cuisine in a chic, modern setting. With its sleek decor and lively atmosphere, Cibo is the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner for two.

If you're in the mood for some live music, check out the Planet Gemini. This intimate venue hosts a variety of local bands and performers, as well as karaoke nights and comedy shows. With its laid-back vibe and diverse lineup, the Planet Gemini is a great spot to discover new music and enjoy a night out on the town.

For a taste of the tropics, head over to Hula's Island Grill. This colorful tiki bar serves up exotic cocktails and Hawaiian-inspired dishes in a fun, festive atmosphere. With its beachy decor and tropical drinks, Hula's is the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulge in some island-style relaxation.

If you're a fan of beer and sports, check out Peter B's Brewpub. This popular spot offers a wide selection of craft beers and tasty pub fare, as well as plenty of TVs for catching all the big games. With its casual atmosphere and friendly staff, Peter B's is a great spot to kick back, relax, and enjoy some good beer and good company.

Last but not least, no list of the best bars in Monterey would be complete without mentioning the Crown & Anchor. This beloved British pub has been a staple in the local community for over 30 years, and it's easy to see why. With its cozy atmosphere, friendly regulars, and authentic British food and drink, the Crown & Anchor is the perfect spot to feel like you're part of the family.

Overall, Monterey has no shortage of great bars to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for craft beer, creative cocktails, or classic pub fare, there's something for everyone in this charming coastal city. So next time you're in town, be sure to check out some of these top-rated bars and experience the best that Monterey has to offer.


Introduction

Monterey, California is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning views, diverse culture, and historic landmarks. But what many people don't know is that Monterey has a thriving bar scene with some of the best bars in the state. From upscale cocktail lounges to casual beach bars, there's something for everyone in Monterey. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best bars in Monterey that you should definitely check out.

The Crown & Anchor

The Crown & Anchor is one of the most popular bars in Monterey. Located in the heart of downtown, this British-style pub offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, complete with dark wood paneling and a fireplace. The Crown & Anchor is known for its extensive beer selection, which includes both local and international brews. They also have a great menu of pub fare, including fish and chips and shepherd's pie.

The Sardine Factory Lounge

If you're looking for a more upscale experience, head to The Sardine Factory Lounge. This elegant cocktail bar is located inside one of Monterey's most iconic restaurants, The Sardine Factory. The lounge features a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere, with plush seating and dim lighting. The bartenders are some of the best in the city, and they specialize in classic cocktails and creative concoctions.

The Mucky Duck

For a more laid-back vibe, check out The Mucky Duck. This beachside bar and restaurant is located just steps away from the sand, making it the perfect spot for a post-beach drink. The Mucky Duck has a great selection of beers on tap, as well as delicious food options like fish tacos and burgers. They also have live music on the weekends, adding to the fun and festive atmosphere.

The Whaling Station Steakhouse Bar

The Whaling Station Steakhouse Bar is another great option for those looking for a more refined experience. This classic steakhouse bar has been a staple of Monterey's dining scene for over 40 years. The Whaling Station offers an extensive wine list, as well as classic cocktails and martinis. The bar also has a cozy fireplace and plush seating, making it the perfect spot for a romantic night out.

The London Bridge Pub

If you're in the mood for a pint of Guinness, head to The London Bridge Pub. This authentic English pub is located just off Cannery Row, and offers a wide selection of beers on tap. The London Bridge Pub also has a great menu of traditional British fare, including bangers and mash and fish and chips. The pub's cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a must-visit spot in Monterey.

Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill

Craft beer lovers will want to check out Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill. This popular brewery and restaurant serves up some of the best beer in Monterey, with a focus on creative and unique brews. The brewery also has a great food menu, featuring locally sourced ingredients and delicious dishes like wood-fired pizzas and burgers. The lively atmosphere and outdoor patio make this a great spot for a fun night out with friends.

The C Restaurant + Bar

For stunning views of Monterey Bay, head to The C Restaurant + Bar. This elegant restaurant and bar is located on Cannery Row, and offers panoramic views of the ocean. The C's bar has an extensive wine list, as well as classic cocktails and creative concoctions. The bar's sleek and modern design and breathtaking views make it the perfect spot for a special occasion or romantic date night.

The Cannery Row Brewing Company

The Cannery Row Brewing Company is another great spot for beer lovers in Monterey. This brewery and restaurant has a wide selection of beers on tap, as well as delicious food options like burgers and sandwiches. The brewery also offers tours and tastings, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about the brewing process and sample some of their unique brews.

The Sandbar & Grill

For a casual beach bar experience, head to The Sandbar & Grill. This laid-back spot is located right on the beach, with stunning views of the ocean. The Sandbar & Grill has a great selection of beers and cocktails, as well as delicious food options like tacos and seafood dishes. The bar also has live music on the weekends, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Conclusion

Monterey's bar scene is just as diverse and exciting as its other attractions. Whether you're looking for an upscale cocktail lounge or a laid-back beach bar, there's something for everyone in Monterey. These ten bars are just a few of the best that the city has to offer, but there are plenty more waiting to be discovered. So next time you're in Monterey, be sure to check out some of these top-notch bars and experience all that this beautiful city has to offer.
Best Bars in Monterey: Enjoy a Drink with Ocean Views and MoreMonterey, California is home to some of the best bars on the West Coast. Whether you're looking for a classic pub experience or a sophisticated sip, there's something for everyone. From historic bars to modern breweries, here are 10 of the best bars in Monterey.

A Taste of History: The Crown and Anchor

The Crown and Anchor is a historic pub that has been serving up drinks since 1969. Located in downtown Monterey, this British-style bar is known for its cozy atmosphere and great selection of beers. The Crown and Anchor is also famous for its fish and chips, which are made with fresh, local seafood.If you're looking for a laid-back spot to enjoy a pint, the Crown and Anchor is the perfect choice. With its traditional décor and friendly staff, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time.

Ocean Views and Craft Brews: Alvarado Street Brewery and Grill

For a more modern take on the pub experience, head to Alvarado Street Brewery and Grill. This brewery has two locations in Monterey, one in downtown and one on the waterfront at the Cannery Row Marketplace.Both locations offer stunning ocean views, as well as a great selection of craft beers and tasty food. Alvarado Street Brewery and Grill is known for its IPAs and stouts, but also offers seasonal beers and experimental brews.

A Classic Pub Experience: Peter B's Brewpub

Peter B's Brewpub is located in the Portola Hotel and Spa in downtown Monterey. This classic pub has been serving up handcrafted beers since 1996, and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.Peter B's offers a wide variety of beers, from light lagers to dark stouts. They also have a great menu of pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and pizza. With its friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere, Peter B's is the perfect spot for a casual night out.

Sipping on the Wharf: Sly McFly's

Sly McFly's is located on the historic Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey. This lively bar offers great views of the harbor, as well as a fun atmosphere and great drinks.Sly McFly's is known for its frozen drinks and signature cocktails, as well as its extensive beer list. They also have a menu of pub grub, including fish and chips and burgers. Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or a romantic date spot, Sly McFly's is a great choice.

Cozy Cocktails: The Sardine Factory Lounge

The Sardine Factory Lounge is located in the iconic Sardine Factory restaurant in downtown Monterey. This cozy lounge offers a sophisticated atmosphere and great cocktails.The Sardine Factory Lounge is known for its classic cocktails, as well as its selection of unique drinks. They also offer a great selection of wines and spirits, as well as small plates and desserts. With its intimate setting and attentive service, The Sardine Factory Lounge is the perfect spot for a special occasion.

Wine and Dine: The C Restaurant and Bar

The C Restaurant and Bar is located in the InterContinental Hotel in downtown Monterey. This elegant restaurant and bar offers stunning ocean views, as well as a great wine list and delicious food.The C Restaurant and Bar is known for its seafood, as well as its selection of California wines. They also offer a great happy hour menu, with discounted drinks and small plates. Whether you're looking for a romantic date spot or a place to impress clients, The C Restaurant and Bar is a must-visit.

Sophisticated Sips: Montrio Bistro's Bar

Montrio Bistro's Bar is located in the heart of downtown Monterey. This sophisticated bar offers a great selection of cocktails, as well as an extensive wine list and tasty bites.Montrio Bistro's Bar is known for its handcrafted cocktails, which are made with fresh ingredients and house-infused spirits. They also offer a great happy hour menu, with discounted drinks and small plates. Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or a romantic date spot, Montrio Bistro's Bar is a great choice.

A Hidden Gem: The Red Zone Sports Bar

The Red Zone Sports Bar is located in the Del Monte Shopping Center in Monterey. This hidden gem offers a fun atmosphere and great drinks, as well as plenty of TVs for sports fans.The Red Zone Sports Bar is known for its signature drinks, as well as its selection of beers and wines. They also offer a menu of pub grub, including burgers, wings, and nachos. Whether you're looking for a place to watch the game or a spot to hang out with friends, The Red Zone Sports Bar is a great choice.

Elevated Eats and Drinks: Jacks Monterey

Jacks Monterey is located in the Portola Hotel and Spa in downtown Monterey. This elegant restaurant and bar offers a great selection of cocktails, as well as delicious food.Jacks Monterey is known for its handcrafted cocktails, which are made with fresh ingredients and house-infused spirits. They also offer a great happy hour menu, with discounted drinks and small plates. Whether you're looking for a romantic date spot or a place to impress clients, Jacks Monterey is a must-visit.

Lively Libations: Cannery Row Brewing Company

Cannery Row Brewing Company is located on the waterfront at the Cannery Row Marketplace. This lively brewery offers a great selection of beers, as well as tasty food and fun events.Cannery Row Brewing Company is known for its IPAs and stouts, but also offers seasonal beers and experimental brews. They also have a menu of pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and pizza. Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or a family-friendly spot, Cannery Row Brewing Company is a great choice.In conclusion, Monterey has a great selection of bars and breweries to choose from. Whether you're looking for a classic pub experience or a sophisticated sip, there's something for everyone. So grab a drink, sit back, and enjoy the ocean views and great company.

Best Bars in Monterey: A Perspective

Introduction

Monterey, California is a city known for its beautiful coastline, rich history, and vibrant nightlife. The city has no shortage of bars, each offering a unique experience to visitors. In this article, we will explore the best bars in Monterey and weigh their pros and cons.

The Comparison Table

Bar Name Location Pros Cons
The Crown & Anchor 150 West Franklin St.
  • Great selection of beers and cocktails
  • Live music and events
  • Outdoor patio with ocean view
  • Can get crowded on weekends
  • Not much parking available
Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill 426 Alvarado St.
  • Wide variety of craft beers
  • Great food menu
  • Casual and fun atmosphere
  • Can get noisy inside
  • Service can be slow during peak hours
Turn 12 Bar & Grill 400 Tyler St.
  • Happy hour specials
  • Large selection of cocktails and beers
  • TVs for sports viewing
  • A bit pricey compared to other bars
  • Can get crowded during peak hours

Best Bars in Monterey: Pros and Cons

The Crown & Anchor

The Crown & Anchor is a popular bar located in downtown Monterey. It has a lot of great things going for it, including a wide selection of beers and cocktails, live music and events, and an outdoor patio with an ocean view. However, the bar can get quite crowded on weekends, and there isn't much parking available nearby. Overall, The Crown & Anchor is a great choice for those looking for a lively atmosphere and good drinks.

Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill

Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill is a casual bar that offers a wide variety of craft beers and a great food menu. The atmosphere is fun and laid-back, but it can get quite noisy inside. Service can also be slow during peak hours. Despite these minor drawbacks, Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill is a great spot for beer lovers and those looking for a good meal.

Turn 12 Bar & Grill

Turn 12 Bar & Grill is a sports bar that offers happy hour specials, a large selection of cocktails and beers, and TVs for sports viewing. While it is a bit pricey compared to other bars in the area, the atmosphere is lively and fun. However, it can get quite crowded during peak hours, so it's best to arrive early if you want a good spot.

Conclusion

Monterey has a lot of great bars to choose from, each with their own unique pros and cons. Whether you're looking for a lively atmosphere, great drinks, or delicious food, there's something for everyone in Monterey's bar scene.

The Best Bars in Monterey: A Guide for Visitors

Welcome to Monterey, a picturesque city located on California's central coast. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, there's no shortage of things to do in this charming town. And when it comes to nightlife, Monterey has something for everyone. From cozy pubs to upscale lounges, there are plenty of bars to explore in Monterey. Here are some of the best bars in Monterey that you won't want to miss.

Let's start with Cannery Row, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Monterey. If you're looking for a lively atmosphere and great drinks, head to Sly McFly's. This spacious bar features live music every night of the week and a large selection of beer, wine, and cocktails. It's the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of exploring Cannery Row.

If you're in the mood for something a little more upscale, check out the speakeasy-style bar at the Sardine Factory. This intimate spot has a vintage vibe and serves up expertly crafted cocktails. It's the perfect spot for a romantic date night or a nightcap after dinner at the Sardine Factory restaurant.

For a taste of local flavor, head to Alvarado Street Brewery and Grill. This brewpub serves up a variety of house-made beers and delicious pub fare. With indoor and outdoor seating, it's a great spot to enjoy a cold beer on a sunny afternoon or a cozy evening with friends.

If you're looking for a classic dive bar experience, look no further than Mucky Duck. This unassuming spot may not look like much from the outside, but inside you'll find a friendly crowd and cheap drinks. It's the perfect spot to kick back and relax with a few friends.

For a taste of the tropics, head to Hula's Island Grill. This lively bar and restaurant serves up island-inspired cocktails and delicious Hawaiian cuisine. With live music on the weekends and a fun, festive atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for a night out with friends.

If you're a wine lover, you won't want to miss A Taste of Monterey. This wine bar and shop features an extensive selection of local wines and stunning views of Monterey Bay. With tastings, flights, and wine by the glass available, it's the perfect spot to discover your new favorite California wine.

Looking for a sports bar to catch the game? Head to Knuckles Sports Bar at Hyatt Regency Monterey. This spacious bar features multiple TVs, a full menu of pub fare, and a great selection of beer and cocktails. It's the perfect spot to cheer on your favorite team with friends.

If you're in the mood for a craft cocktail, head to Montrio Bistro. This upscale restaurant and bar serves up expertly crafted cocktails made with house-made syrups and fresh ingredients. The elegant atmosphere and attentive service make it the perfect spot for a special occasion or a night out with friends.

For a taste of the local music scene, head to Planet Gemini. This lively bar features live music and dancing every night of the week. With a friendly crowd and a fun atmosphere, it's the perfect spot to let loose and dance the night away.

Finally, we can't talk about the best bars in Monterey without mentioning The Crown and Anchor. This British-style pub has been a local favorite for over 30 years, and for good reason. With a cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and great selection of beer and pub fare, it's the perfect spot to relax and unwind with friends.

So there you have it, a guide to the best bars in Monterey. Whether you're in the mood for a craft cocktail, a cold beer, or a tropical drink, there's a bar in Monterey that's perfect for you. So grab some friends, explore the town, and raise a glass to a great vacation in Monterey.


People Also Ask About Best Bars in Monterey

What Are the Best Bars in Monterey?

Monterey is known for its vibrant nightlife scene. Here are some of the best bars in Monterey:

  1. The Crown and Anchor: This British-style pub offers a wide selection of beers on tap and live music on the weekends.
  2. Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill: Known for its craft beer, this popular brewery also serves delicious food.
  3. Tarpy's Roadhouse: This rustic bar and restaurant is known for its extensive wine list and farm-to-table cuisine.
  4. MpCafe: This trendy bar serves up craft cocktails and live music in a sleek and modern setting.

What Is the Best Place to Go for Happy Hour in Monterey?

If you're looking for a great happy hour deal, check out these bars in Monterey:

  • Britannia Arms: This English-style pub offers happy hour specials on food and drinks every weekday from 3-6pm.
  • Old Fisherman's Grotto: This seafood restaurant and bar offers happy hour specials on drinks and appetizers every day from 3-6pm.
  • Whaling Station Steakhouse: This upscale steakhouse offers happy hour specials on drinks and appetizers every day from 4:30-7pm.

What Are Some Bars with Live Music in Monterey?

If you're looking for a night of live music, check out these bars in Monterey:

  1. MpCafe: This trendy bar features live music on the weekends and serves up craft cocktails in a sleek and modern setting.
  2. The Crown and Anchor: This British-style pub offers live music on the weekends and a wide selection of beers on tap.
  3. Planet Gemini: This nightclub features live music, dancing, and comedy shows throughout the week.

No matter what type of bar you're looking for, you're sure to find something to suit your tastes in Monterey. Whether you're in the mood for craft beer, craft cocktails, or live music, there's a bar out there for you.