Old Fisherman’s Grotto

If you're visiting Monterey Fisherman's Wharf, Old Fisherman's Grotto is more than just a restaurant — it’s a local landmark. I’ve visited many spots on the wharf, but their hospitality elevates the experience to a new level. **The Service:** From the moment we arrived, the warmth was obvious. Special thanks to Chris, the owner, and Umar Sheikh, the manager. Their hands-on, welcoming approach is rare and made us feel like VIPs. Their attention to detail is reflected in the excellent service from start to finish. **The Food (and Insider Tips!):** The food is outstanding, with fresh seafood and genuine flavors. Here are two insider tips that make this place truly special: 1. **The "To-Go" Hack:** If you're short on time, visit the dedicated Clam Chowder stand outside to grab a bread bowl o

Oh my gosh, what a find! We were recommended this place from a colleague and we can't thank her enough! It's a little hard to find parking because it's right at the wharf, but if you can, which we did, you are very lucky and it's convenient. This was our first time here, and walking down the wharf was really great. We made a reservation easily, although you need to leave a credit card, but we were escorted into the door right away and greeted by the host. He was amazing! The family-owned restaurant and from the outside it looks small, but when you walk inside it's huge! We were taken to our table which was right along the window looking out to the water. Perfection. Our server with cell and he is fantastic. Super attentive and really friendly. I can't say enough good things about the servi

This was the BEST dinner out ever!! My husband and I had the dinner for two with the Tomahawk, corn baked potatoes and broccoli. It was beyond delicious! 🤤 So so good!! We had cocktails to celebrate my birthday; I had the Grotto Pineapple; definitely recommend; and my husband had the Zombie. Our waiter was incredible! Very nice and helpful but I forgot his name. He always checked to make sure we were good and if we needed anything. They brought a slice of cheesecake out for my birthday and gave me a single long stem red rose. We can’t wait to come back to eat here again. The experience was just amazing! Definitely recommend; you will not be disappointed. Also with a nice view over the water.

A must visit for seafood lovers. They had good variety of options and almost each item tastes really good. We visited this place twice already and looking forward to many more. Their clam chowder is one of the best. The salmon, calamari and crab meat was amazing. They have a good amount of waiting time. We waited for around 40 minutes both times we visited. But it is totally worth it once you start tasting their seafood.

Dinner was amazing. Ruben was awesome and had the best recommendations throughout the night. Old school charm with the best dinner menu on the wharf. Extremely impressed. Reso recommended. For sure will be back!!!