Hidden Treasures on Cannery Row, Monterey

With the Monterey Bay Aquarium as an anchor, fresh seafood joints scattered about, a rich history, and a plethora of land and sea activities it's no wonder why Cannery Row is one of California's most visited attractions. With so much to choose from we have cherry-picked just a few noteworthy locations to make sure you make the most out of your next visit.

A Taste of Monterey Wine Market & Bistro

700 Cannery Row, Suite KK 2nd Floor, Monterey, CA 93940
Sample your way around Monterey County's various wine regions without ever leaving Cannery Row! A Taste of Monterey offers wines from over 95 local wineries with a side of expansive views of the Monterey Bay. Grab a glass of vino, savor a small (or large) bite and enjoy the activity out on the bay; you might even spot a playful sea otter or a whale spout out in the distance!

El Torito

600 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93950
You can't help but shout "ole" at this next seaside gem. It's always 5'clock at El Torito where there is a margarita to quench any thirst and a south-of-the-border dish to please any palate. Taco Tuesday offers up tacos for just $1.50 which is a good thing since you won't want to leave after seeing their breathtaking vistas. Be sure to order a side of their fresh tableside guacamole which is made right in front of you and made to your exact specifications.

Blue Fin Café & Billiards

685 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940

In my book, the Blue Fin Café & Billiards easily has one of the best views of Cannery Row. The upstairs venue overlooks the heart of the busy row accompanied by great food, a full bar, foosball, darts and lots of billiards! Check out their schedule of theme nights throughout the week including country night, salsa night, NFL football night and karaoke night.

Johnny Rockets

685 Cannery Row, Suite 101, Monterey, CA 93940
Enjoy a slice of hometown Americana at Johnny Rockets across from the famed Steinbeck Plaza. The friendly (and sometimes dancing) staff, ‘50s diner décor, cozy comfort foods, and jukebox tunes are sure to bring back nostalgic moments. I recommend having the Orange Dreamsicle shake which is truly a dream come true!

The Fish Hopper

700 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940
The seafood here is so fresh you might be able to see if off the deck from where you dine. The Fish Hopper at the end of Steinbeck Plaza is world class dining at its best. The clam chowder samples out front alone are sure to suck you in. Once inside you won't be disappointed with its amazing views, fun drink menu and outstanding seafood dishes like seafood paella, Cajun mahi mahi and lobster pasta.

Monterey Mirror Maze & Lazer Challenger - Highway 1 Golf, Games & Grub

751 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940
Kids at heart love to get the lost in the Monterey Mirror Maze. If the psychedelic setting, high tech lighting and heart-pumping music isn't challenging enough, head next door for a round of competitive mini golf at Highway 1 Golf, Games & Grub. The 9-hole course is centered on the California Highway One road trip all by 3D and black light. Wash down all the excitement at their grub station with all sorts of fun treats like corn dogs, icees, funnel cakes and mini donuts!

Sardine Factory

701 Wave St, Monterey, CA 93940
The Sardine Factory may not be a secret but it certainly deserves a spot on the list for its hidden gem downstairs. The secluded wine cellar is tucked just below the beautiful conservatory with a medieval-style cellar room available for private parties. The main dining rooms upstairs have hosted a plethora of celebrities, politicians and sports figures throughout its 47 year stint; it was even featured in Clint Eastwood's thriller "Play Misty for Me."

Whaling Station Steakhouse

763 Wave St, Monterey, CA 93940
If meat is on your mind the Whaling Station Steakhouse is bound to curb your craving. At Monterey's only dedicated steakhouse you can choose your very own USDA Prime cut of dry-aged beef from a silver tray, a Prime Rib from the antique 1930's silver carving trolley, and watch your Caesar Salad being tossed tableside. For a more casual (and affordable) setting opt for their bar menu which offers their mouth-watering Prime Rib French Dip.

Wave Street Studios

774 Wave St, Monterey, CA 93940
Just across the way from the Whaling Station sits a builder's dream, perhaps because its owner comes from a line of successful architects. Wave Street Studios is a decked out event venue with a sprung dance floor, studio sound system, live streaming service and even heated benches! The beautifully designed 3-level green property is complete with aesthetically pleasing additions like a waterfall, manicured succulent gardens and native granite rock walls; no added décor needed and the perfect spot for their Kundalini Yoga classes!