Seemor
A Taste of Monterey - Wine Market & BistroAMust Try
700 Cannery Row KK, Monterey, CA 93940
· Wine bar, Art gallery, Bistro
· 4.6/5 Google (542 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Spectacular Monterey Bay views with local wine flights and solid small plates; service is usually warm but can be uneven during busy stretches.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
A Taste of Monterey ranks among the region's finest casual dining destinations, anchored by exceptional oceanfront setting with over-the-water seating and wildlife viewing that justifies a destination visit. Solid food quality in shareables and flatbreads pairs effectively with knowledgeable wine flight guidance, creating a cohesive wine-bar experience. Minor inconsistencies in host-stand service and occasional pacing delays prevent perfection, but the overall execution—particularly the unbeatable setting and local wine focus—delivers grade A-level value for the Monterey coast.
Restaurant Summary
Windows open to the bay and the room feels warm and bustling without tipping into chaos. Staff often guide guests through local wine flights, and a diner noted, "We lingered over a crab dip with sea otters in view." If you time it right, sunset through the glass is spectacular. The cooking leans elevated comfort made for sipping: flatbreads, chowder, and shareables, with a few global accents like ceviche and Japanese meatballs. It is more wine bar than full-on restaurant, so expectations around portion size and pacing should match a relaxed, pairing-first experience. Families can make it work, but this is not purpose-built for kids. Reviews mention no high chairs and stairs at the entrance; that said, simple items like Margherita flatbread, grilled cheese, and chowder are approachable for younger eaters.
At a Glance
- Unbeatable over-the-water views and wildlife watching
- Strong selection of local Monterey County wine flights
- Flatbreads and crab dip consistently praised
- Host stand service can be slow or curt at times
- Occasional menu-to-bill discrepancies on wine flights
What Sets It Apart
- panoramic_bay_windows
- local_wine_focus
- wildlife_viewing_binoculars
What People Love
- Oceanfront window seating that feels immersive
- Friendly guidance on wine flights
- Crab dip and flatbreads with sourdough
- Live music ambiance on select evenings
Points of Concern
- Hostess interactions and seating delays reported by several guests, especially during busy periods
- Clam chowder quality is divisive, with some finding it too potato-forward
- Note about no high chairs/boosters and stairs to the entrance impacts families
- Pricing alignment: one report of wine flights ringing higher than printed menu; verify your check
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$38-55 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Applewood Bacon Wrapped Dates ($13) before a local white flight
- Share a Pig Wizard flatbread ($17-24) with added tri-tip if you want something heartier
- Finish with Crème Brûlée ($10) and a late-harvest pour if available
Perfect For
- Sunset wine flights with a view
- Casual date night with shareables
- Out-of-town visitors near the aquarium
- Relaxed solo afternoon tasting
Location Insights
Area: Touristy waterfront strip with ocean vistas, foot traffic from the aquarium and hotels; popular for sunset drinks.
Safety: Busy, well-lit tourist corridor with steady foot traffic; generally safe and patrolled.
Nearby: Steps from Monterey Bay Aquarium, waterfront hotels, souvenir shops, and other seafood spots along the boardwalk.
Cannery RowCannery Row offers a vibrant dining scene with a mix of casual and upscale restaurants, many featuring seafood and local wines. The atmosphere is lively and tourist-friendly, with easy access to waterfront views and attractions.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–18:00
Tuesday12:00–18:00
Wednesday12:00–18:00
Thursday12:00–18:00
Friday12:00–20:00
Saturday12:00–20:00
Sunday12:00–18:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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