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Monterey › Monterey › Montrio
MontrioB+Worth Trying
414 Calle Principal, Monterey, CA 93940
· New American restaurant, American restaurant, Californian restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (847 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Upscale New American in downtown Monterey delivering polished service and standout plates like crab cakes, scallops, and short ribs, with premium prices and occasional inconsistency on risotto and seasoning.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Montrio delivers polished New American dining with strong food quality anchored by standout crab cakes, scallops, and short ribs, paired with attentive, celebratory service in an elegant downtown setting. However, inconsistent execution on risotto and seasoning prevents higher distinction, and premium pricing limits broader appeal. Ideal for special occasions where atmosphere and core proteins matter most.
Restaurant Summary
Montrio feels elegant and intimate without going stiff, the sort of downtown room where birthdays and engagements get a little sparkle. Servers are often warm and celebratory, with one guest noting, "They guided our pairings and made the night feel special." However, expect premium pricing and the occasional miss on starches or seasoning. The cooking leans New American with premium ingredients and refined technique rather than theatrics: crab cakes with minimal filler, meaty scallops, rich short ribs, and Wagyu steaks. Global accents—harissa in the cioppino, chimichurri with meats—add color without tipping into fusion-for-fusion’s-sake. It suits diners who appreciate careful sourcing and classic flavors with modern polish, though risotto sides can read heavy or underseasoned. Families will do fine here, especially with older kids who like steak, chicken, and fries. There is a vegan/gluten-free carrot steak, but vegetarians wanting a heartier main may feel limited. Portions on premium steaks satisfy; scallop plates can skew risotto-heavy, so order a side if you have big appetites.
At a Glance
- Polished service and celebratory atmosphere in downtown Monterey
- Standout dishes include crab cakes, scallops, and short ribs
- Pricing is high; some mains come with heavy or bland risottos
- Occasional inconsistency on seasoning and sear
- Creative contemporary menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- tableside_bisque_pour
- private_upstairs_events
- premium_beef_program
What People Love
- Feeling cared for during celebrations
- Expertly cooked scallops and rich short ribs
- Classy room that still feels relaxed
- Cocktails and helpful wine guidance
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive ($39+ mains; $72-75 steaks) which may surprise casual diners
- Risotto sides can be heavy or underseasoned; a few scallop sear inconsistencies
- Vegetarian main (carrot steak) feels unsubstantial to some diners
- Service lapses appear occasionally during busy periods
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$85-120 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Seafood fans: cioppino for variety; adjust spice tolerance
- Steak fans: Wagyu ribeye or Certified Angus filet; pair with boulangère potatoes
Perfect For
- Date nights and anniversaries
- Business dinners with wine pairings
- Celebration dinners with private upstairs space
- Travelers seeking upscale New American near the waterfront
Location Insights
Area: Central downtown Monterey near tourist sights and business hotels; upscale but casual coastal vibe.
Safety: Generally safe, active foot traffic into evening; typical downtown attention to belongings advised.
Nearby: Walkable to Alvarado Street bars, Convention Center, and waterfront attractions; hotels nearby.
Downtown MontereyDowntown Monterey offers a lively dining scene with a variety of restaurants ranging from casual seafood spots to upscale eateries. The area is characterized by its historic charm, walkability, and a strong focus on fresh, local ingredients reflecting the coastal environment. It attracts visitors looking for both casual and fine dining experiences in a scenic, tourist-friendly setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–21:00
Tuesday17:00–21:00
Wednesday17:00–21:00
Thursday17:00–21:00
Friday17:00–22:00
Saturday17:00–22:00
Sunday17:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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