Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. California Central Coast

Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Monterey

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

4 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Stokes Adobe Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(748)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Monterey
Booked 23 times today
Stokes Adobe in Monterey, set within a historic adobe home, offers a delightful experience of Contemporary Italian cuisine with a touch of California flair. Guests rave about the "homemade tagliatelle Bolognese" and the "perfectly cooked" halibut, served up in a cozy atmosphere complete with fire pits and heaters. The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident, with visitors consistently praising the "delicious food" and "outstanding service." One diner encapsulated the appeal: "Every recommendation made by our waiter was right on the money!" With such glowing testimonials, Stokes Adobe stands out as a top destination for those seeking exceptional Italian dishes with a contemporary twist in a charming setting.
A photo of Il Tegamino restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1100)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Carmel
Booked 11 times today
Il Tegamino in Carmel is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering a truly authentic dining experience that resonates with both locals and visitors alike. Nestled behind a candy store on Ocean Ave, this quaint establishment thrives on its reputation for exceptional food and service. Guests rave about the "delicious and authentic Italian food," with standout dishes like the prosciutto and mozzarella antipasto and the ravioli di campagna. The ambiance, described as cozy and intimate, complements the carefully crafted meals. Frequent diners praise the "knowledgeable staff" and the "excellent wine pairings," making Il Tegamino a must-visit for anyone seeking a slice of Italy in Carmel.
A photo of Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar - Pacific Grove restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1302)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Pacific Grove
Booked 27 times today
We are currently open for dine-in and outdoor heated sidewalk/patio.We are always available for curbside pickup.Welcome to Mezzaluna Pasteria and Mozzarella Bar. Chef Soerke and Amy invite you in to enjoy daily house made Pasta, Mozzarella and Gelato. We offer a full bar with specialty cocktails. Chef’s Specialties includeBuccatini Al’AmatricianaLinguini alla VongoleChicken Sausage LasagneSpaghetti CarbonaraGrilled Octopus Lamb Meatballs House-made CharcuterieGnocchi with Gorgonzola Dolce Sauce & Black Truffle OilLittle Gem Caesar Salad with Parmigiano Reggiano Raviloi di Manzo Pate di Anatra
A photo of Basil Seasonal Dining restaurant
4.5
Awesome(909)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Carmel
Booked 6 times today
Basil Seasonal Dining in Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a delightful experience that marries the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine with the freshness of Californian flair. Diners rave about the "best carbonara I've had outside of Italy" and commend the "amazing food" that reflects the seasonal and high-quality ingredients used. With options like gluten-free vegan raviolis that left guests eagerly anticipating their next visit, Basil exemplifies culinary excellence. Moreover, the charming ambiance and attentive service enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit destination for authentic and innovative Italian dishes. Whether it's the perfect pasta or the exceptional wine recommendations, Basil Seasonal Dining ensures an unforgettable meal in the heart of Carmel.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Cathy
    California Central Coast •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Excellent in every respect. Server, Adrian, spot on perfect and made the evening even more enjoyable.
    More info
    Inn at Tres PinosPrice: Expensive• Continental• Hollister
    4.9
  • Lindsay
    Fresno / San Joaquin Valley •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Our family enjoyed dining at II Tegamino . It’s a quaint restaurant that invites you into a more personable experience. You are greeted and waited on by the owner and friendly staff eagerly awaiting to accommodate your dining experience . The food was fresh and absolutely delicious ! Lasagna is a must have , as well as the fried zucchini to dip your fresh bread in . We will definitely be back when we come back to Carmel to visit .
    More info
    Il TegaminoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Carmel
    4.6
  • Jim
    San Francisco Bay Area •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We used to have lunch at Basil quite a bit (always excellent) but the pandemic interrupted that. Decided we needed to revisit so two neighbors joined us for dinner last night and our expectations were exceeded! Great cocktails (superb Manhattan & Old Fashioned), delicious appetizers (small pizza & Focaccia-be SURE to get the burrata w/the Focaccia!) and 4 excellent entrees. The menu is extensive, service very good and pricing is moderate but a good value. It was a bit noisy inside because of a very large table/party of a dozen plus people & children but there is heated outside seating available. If you’re fortunate to have Fredrico as your server, you’ll have an especially fun time. Basil is as good as ever - highly recommend.
    More info
    Basil Seasonal DiningPrice: Expensive• Italian• Carmel
    4.5
  • Camillevip
    New York City •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    My husband and I shared the porterhouse and our granddaughter got the wagu. They both were delicious!! The sides that came with the porterhouse were incredibly yummy (crispy potatoes and an Italian broccoli) We started the the garlic bread - which set a VERY High bar for the next course. I’m dreaming about the garlic bread - PHENOMENAL! Our server, Jane, was knowledgeable, kind and very attentive.
    More info
    Stokes Adobe RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Californian• Monterey
    4.7
  • Andrea
    California Central Coast •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Aug 24, 2024
    I didn’t realize that it’s actually within the Doubletree hotel if that’s the hotel at the Prune Yard. No one was there. According to two servers, they didn’t have our reservation or at least there wasn’t a manager to confirm. We were the only customers until later in the evening. They looked like hotel customers were coming in, sitting at the bar and the outside fire pit so we had the servers to ourselves. They were very personable, helpful & friendly. The food was excellent and the prices were reasonable. I was with three other people. We had a really nice time and it was for my birthday last month, but getting together with friends to celebrate.
    More info
    PY Kitchen + Wine GardenPrice: Moderate• Latin American• Campbell
    4.2

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Monterey

Discover a captivating blend of contemporary Italian cuisine in the scenic Monterey / Carmel area on California's Central Coast. Renowned for its sophisticated and modern interpretations of classic Italian dishes, this region offers an array of dining options that cater to both traditional and innovative palates. The restaurants here are celebrated for their commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, enhancing the authenticity and flavor of each dish. Patrons can expect a variety of settings from cozy, intimate environments to more vibrant, modern spaces, each providing a unique dining experience that reflects the charm of the Central Coast. The dining scene in Monterey / Carmel is dynamic and diverse, with a strong emphasis on culinary craftsmanship and a farm-to-table ethos. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner spot or a chic venue for a group gathering, the contemporary Italian restaurants here promise an unforgettable culinary journey through Italy's rich flavors, all while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Monterey coastline. This area not only satisfies the taste buds but also captivates the senses with its picturesque landscapes and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers and travelers alike.

Explore OpenTable

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo