Seemor
Fandango RestaurantB+Worth Trying
223 17th St, Pacific Grove, CA 93950
· Mediterranean restaurant, Bar, Family restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (733 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Classic Mediterranean-French spot with warm service, big portions, and signature souffle; prices are high and holiday prix fixe value divides opinion.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Fandango delivers reliable Mediterranean-French comfort dining with solid food quality anchored by signature dishes like the Grand Marnier souffle and lamb shank couscous, paired with attentive service that makes diners feel welcomed. Consistency challenges during holiday prix fixe menus and peak nights prevent grade A territory, though the cozy setting and loyal following make it competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants for a special meal in Pacific Grove.
Restaurant Summary
Inside a quaint old house, the room feels warm and bustling with white-tablecloth polish and friendly servers who remember anniversaries. A diner summed it up: cozy interior over a tired facade, with staff that makes the evening feel easy. The cooking leans classic Mediterranean and French with hearty portions: onion soup, lamb shank couscous, steak frites, paella, and the signature Grand Marnier souffle. Most nights deliver satisfying flavors, though holiday prix fixe menus draw mixed feedback on value and execution; come for elevated traditional rather than cutting-edge fusion. Families do fine here thanks to familiar picks like burgers, simple pastas, and grilled salmon, though there is no kids menu called out. Portions are shareable and staff can accommodate seating needs, but one parent noted limited facilities for infants. Expect classic comfort options more than adventurous kid fare.
At a Glance
- Cozy, classic setting with attentive service
- Signature souffle and comforting French-Mediterranean staples
- Generous portions; sharing often feasible
- Holiday prix fixe can feel overpriced with execution misses
- Occasional service lapses or uneven pacing on busy nights
What Sets It Apart
- classic_souffle_program
- old_house_charm
- broad_Mediterranean_menu
What People Love
- The Grand Marnier souffle ritual
- Hearty lamb shank couscous and steaks
- Warm, old-house ambiance
- Servers who make birthdays feel special
Points of Concern
- Holiday prix fixe menus have multiple complaints about value and doneness
- Inconsistent execution on certain dishes like duck or salmon pappardelle
- Occasional rude or inattentive service, especially with large groups
- Pricing is genuinely expensive ($33+ mains) which may surprise casual diners
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$68-92 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For seafood lovers: sanddabs or grilled salmon for straightforward flavors
- For hearty eaters: short ribs or osso buco on cooler nights
- Vegetarian-friendly picks: puttanesca or tortellini maison with salads
Perfect For
- Anniversary dinners with classic desserts
- Visitors seeking a cozy European-style meal
- Groups who like hearty portions and shareable plates
- A relaxed bar drink with small plates
Location Insights
Area: Charming coastal town center near Monterey; draws retirees, couples, and visitors seeking classic dining.
Safety: Generally safe, walkable streets with steady foot traffic in evenings.
Nearby: Near hotels, Lighthouse Ave shops, and coastal trail; brewery next door mentioned by reviewers.
Pacific GrovePacific Grove is a charming, historic seaside community with a relaxed and family-friendly dining scene. The area features a mix of casual and upscale restaurants, often emphasizing fresh seafood and local ingredients, catering to both locals and visitors drawn by the nearby Monterey Bay Aquarium and coastal attractions.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–20:30
Tuesday17:00–20:30
Wednesday17:00–20:30
Thursday17:00–20:30
Friday17:00–20:30
Saturday17:00–20:30
Sunday17:00–20:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →