Big Sur(101)
Monterey / Carmel(3,432)
Carmel(1,288)
Monterey(1,639)
American(175)
Brewery(12)
Californian(433)
German(2)
Greek(11)
Italian(45)
Mexican(4)
Seafood(821)
Steak(44)
Steakhouse(92)
Pacific Grove(505)
Ojai(299)
Pismo Beach(291)
Santa Barbara(2,461)
Santa Ynez Valley(1,035)
Find Restaurants in Your Area
Select a Location
- Alabama
- Anchorage
- Arkansas
- Asheville / W. North Carolina
- Atlanta / Georgia
- Atlantic Canada
- Atlantic City
- Austin
- Baja California
- Baltimore / Maryland
- Beijing
- Boston / New England
- Calgary / Southern Alberta
- California Central Coast
- Caribbean
- Charlotte
- Chicago / Illinois
- Chihuahua
- Cincinnati / Dayton
- Cleveland / Akron / Canton
- Coastal North Carolina
- Columbus
- Corpus Christi / McAllen
- Dallas - Fort Worth
- Demoland
- Denver / Colorado
- Detroit / Eastern Michigan
- Dubai
- East Tennessee
- Edmonton / Northern Alberta
- El Paso
- El Salvador
- Exclusive
- Fresno / San Joaquin Valley
- Grand Rapids / Western Michigan
- Greensboro / Winston Salem / Highpoint
- Hawaii
- Hong Kong / Macau
- Houston
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Jackson Hole / Wyoming
- Jacksonville / Northeast Florida
- Kansas City
- Kentucky
- Key West / Florida Keys
- Lake of the Ozarks
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles / Orange County
- Los Cabos
- Malaysia
- Manitoba / Saskatchewan
- Memphis
- Mexico / Mexico City
- Miami / Southeast Florida
- Minneapolis - St. Paul
- Mississippi
- Montana
- Montreal / Quebec
- Nashville
- Nebraska
- New Mexico
- New Orleans / Louisiana
- New York / Tri-State Area
- North Dakota
- Northern Michigan / Upper Peninsula
- Northwest Florida
- Oklahoma
- Orlando / Central Florida East
- Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities
- Philadelphia / New Jersey Suburbs
- Phoenix / Arizona
- Pinehurst
- Pittsburgh
- Portland / Oregon
- Portugal
- Puerto Vallarta
- Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill
- Sacramento / Sacramento Valley
- San Antonio
- San Diego
- San Francisco Bay Area
- Scranton / Poconos
- Seattle / Eastern Washington
- Shanghai
- Singapore
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Southwest Florida
- Southwest Indiana / Tri-State Area
- Springfield / Branson
- St. Louis
- Switzerland
- Tahoe / Reno Area
- Tampa / Central Florida West
- Texas Panhandle
- Toledo
- Toronto / Ontario
- Utah
- Vancouver / British Columbia
- Villa de Muerte
- Virginia
- Washington, D.C. Area
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Yosemite / Mammoth Lakes
Most Reviewed Restaurants
Top-Rated Restaurants
Reserve now:
Old Fisherman's GrottoReservations
Restaurant Reviews List >
California Central Coast Restaurant Reviews >
Monterey / Carmel Restaurant Reviews >
Monterey Restaurant Reviews >
Seafood Restaurant Reviews
Old Fisherman's Grotto Reviews List
Old Fisherman's Grotto
Located on Historic Old Fisherman's Wharf with stunning views of the Monterey Harbor, Old Fisherman’s Grotto is a "must visit" restaurant. The “Grotto” has rightfully earned its worldwide reputation for only the finest cuisine in a superb atmosphere and service. Featuring fresh seafood from sustainable sources including Macadamia Crusted Halibut, Hawaiian Swordfish, Ultimate Seafood Pasta, live Crab and Lobster, the Grotto also offers a variety of the finest “Certified Angus Beef”. Start with our award-winning clam chowder and finish by indulging in one of our fresh house-made desserts. Enjoy a bottle of wine from our Wine Enthusiast Magazine award-winning wine list with over 200 selections specializing in local vineyards. Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce 2009 Business Excellence Award Winner. 2010 1st Place Winner in the "West Coast Chowder Competition", 2006- 2013 Winner for "Best Chowder" in the Monterey County's Weekly Magazine "People's Choice Award".
See more Old Fisherman's Grotto details
36 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Rating Breakdown 36 reviews
5 stars
(24)
4 stars
(8)
3 stars
(3)
2 stars
(1)
1 star
(0)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- scenic view(27)
- special occasion(18)
- good for groups(14)
- neighborhood gem(14)
- fit for foodies(12)
- romantic(12)
Old Fisherman's Grotto Reviews List
Review 1 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"A bit of a throwback. Wonderful service. Good food. A fun night all around."
Dined on 5/06/2013
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 2 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Service was very good and friendly and the food was fantastic. The view is great being on the wharf and teh restaurant has great atmosphere. However, somehow they couldn't find our Open Table reservation, which when I showed them the confirmation on my phone, they still made us wait until they asked the Manager if they could seat us. It was a little unnerving being there was no one waiting for a table at the time to begin with, and the restaurant wasn't very busy. But all in all, a great place for Dungeness crab for sure."
Dined on 5/29/2012
Special Features: scenic view
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 3 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The owner chris shake came
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The owner chris shake came over and greeted us and thanked us for or business.
The staff was very friendly.It was my wifes Birthday and the Dessert was on
the house.Next time we are in Monterey we and down on the wharf we will eat
there again."
The staff was very friendly.It was my wifes Birthday and the Dessert was on
the house.Next time we are in Monterey we and down on the wharf we will eat
there again."
Dined on 04/21/2013
2008
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 4 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Thought it would be touristy
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
"Thought it would be touristy given it's location. Instead, we had a quiet and very enjoyable linner with an awesome vuew including a sea lion. Cakamari and shrimp appetizers were perfect as was hakibut and petrole soul entrees."
Dined on 04/21/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, notable wine list, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 5 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
great food, great service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Came here while on vacation and had a wonderful experience. Excellent food and service. Don't let the "touristy" diplay out front fool you, once you walk in to the actual restaurant it is quite lovely."
Dined on 04/17/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 6 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
It was Fantastic. Everyone
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"It was Fantastic. Everyone was friendly, and the ambience was wonderful. Salvator was our waiter and he was very attentive and helpful with choices including wine pairing. I had the macadamia crusted Halibut which was the best I think I have ever tasted. It was served with sweet potatoes, brussel sprouts and green beans with carrots julienned. I had the vanilla bean creme brulee for dessert and as with the dinner the presentation was beautiful. I can't wait to visit monterey again and dine here."
Dined on 04/17/2013
2010
Special Features: scenic view
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 7 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wife and I love this restaurant.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Wife and I love this restaurant. The food is fantastic, tha atmosphere is perfect and the service is impeccable. Highly recommend the grotto!"
Dined on 04/14/2013
2012
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 8 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent food and quiet enough
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Excellent food and quiet enough to talk"
Dined on 04/07/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion, scenic view
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 9 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Chowderlicious!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"What a treat! Unfortunately you have to wade through the tacky touristy stuff to get to it, but once inside the tired decor isn't as bad as the food is GOOD! Crab Tower and the Coconut Shrimp shined along with the terrific chowder. Huge portions so it is easy to share! Will absolutely recommend and return!"
Dined on 04/05/2013
2006
Special Features: kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, scenic view, great for lunch
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 10 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Super friendly service and
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Super friendly service and surprisingly, were served a complimentary calamari appetizer. The portions are hearty, the clam chowder thick and creamy and my iced tea glass never went below half full. Good variety on the menu and a great setting to have a view of the water. You can't go wrong eating here!"
Dined on 04/04/2013
2007
Special Features: good for groups, kid-friendly, scenic view, great for lunch
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 11 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best food/service in Monterey
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Amazing service along with the amazing food complimentary apps were good and the clam chowder bread bowl was terrific. Got the surf and turf the lobster was good but the steak was cooked perfectly."
Dined on 04/04/2013
2013
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 12 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We were hungry after a long
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We were hungry after a long day of exploring Monterey & environs when we found this restaurant a short walk from our hotel. It got very good ratings on a couple travel sites so we decided to give it a try. We were seated at the window overlooking the water. All diners received a complimentary appetizer that was delicious. Both of our meals were very good, service was prompt & pleasant. Overall, it was a lovely experience. At the end of the meal, a red rosebud was presented to me by our server. Nice touch :-)"
Dined on 03/25/2013
2009
Special Features: good for groups, scenic view
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 13 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We were only in town for the
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We were only in town for the night and found OFG via Yelp. The other Yelp reviews are right on the money - this is a great spot for some delicious seafood. No complaints whatsoever."
Dined on 03/12/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 14 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great place for business dinner.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great place for business dinner."
Dined on 03/12/2013
2011
Special Features: good for groups, notable wine list, scenic view
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 15 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service was excellent; portions
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Service was excellent; portions were large; Chowder was excellent;"
Dined on 03/10/2013
2002
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 16 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
It's always a pleasure
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Fishermans grottos is one of my favorite local spot for clam chowder and calamari. I made a birthday reservation for lunch and had great time. The service was extremely friendly and didn't feel rush as most restaurants in the wharf tend to make me feel. Most importantly the food is delicious and offers great options for seafood lovers and vegetarian options as well. Definetly try the vegetarian pasta you won't be disappointed. I love the crab sandwich or the salmon dish for a larger room. Save room for dessert if you're a fan of cheese cake and cream burlee which comes in vanilla or chocolate."
Dined on 03/07/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 17 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
great dinner
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"the wife loves the sourdough clam chowder bowl, I tried the NY Steak for the first time and it was awesome, we have never had a bad meal here and would love to come back any time"
Dined on 03/04/2013
2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 18 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Our fault, but this place
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our fault, but this place is not kid friendly for small children. They told us they were at the door, but no booster seats or high chairs, and a sign that said something to the effect of "if your child is noisy remove them from the restaurant" we had to take our food to go. Not impressive for the price. Jacks attached to Portola has the food worth going back for. This place has a better view."
Dined on 03/04/2013
2013
Special Features: scenic view
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 19 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We mentioned that we were
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We mentioned that we were celebrating our 25th anniversary and they went out of their way to make it a memorable evening. The food was great, we had a wonderful window table and they comped us an appitizer and dessert. They really know how to please their customers."
Dined on 02/13/2013
2002
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 20 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
2nd time I have dined at The
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"2nd time I have dined at The Grotto - both times consistent and very good. IMO best on the wharf and not unreasonably priced. Clam chowder really tasty, and with tender clam pieces. Bonus: Receipt reflected a nice discount (like $9.50) for selecting a bottle of wine from a local(Monterey County)vintner."
Dined on 02/07/2013
2006
Special Features: neighborhood gem, scenic view
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 21 for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We have eaten at Old Fisherman's
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We have eaten at Old Fisherman's Grotto three times now. Every dinner was delicious and prepared perfectly! We do not live in Monterey, but will come to eat there whenever we are in town."
Dined on 01/30/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Ratings-Only Reviews for Old Fisherman's Grotto
Based on the average of (15) ratings-only reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
3 out of 3 recommend this product
Food
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate