Monterey mornings carry a certain magic—a low mist curled over the bay, the hum of the waterfront waking up, and a gentle promise that somewhere nearby, a perfect brunch awaits. My search for the best brunch in Monterey started with curiosity and an appetite for more than eggs and toast. One foggy Sunday, I wandered into a little spot by the wharf, where the chatter of regulars and the smell of artisan bread set the tone for my day. That first bite, a fluffy omelet scattered with garden herbs, left me certain: brunch in Monterey doesn’t mess around.
Finding a memorable meal here is as much about the atmosphere as it is about what’s on your plate. From rustic neighborhood cafes to sleek, window-lined dining rooms, this town serves up brunch with its own coastal twist. If you’re ready to discover local favorites and a few surprises, you’re in the right place. Consider this your guide to the spots where brunch moves beyond routine and becomes, if just for an hour, exactly where you want to be.
1. Old Monterey Cafe
Tucked right on Alvarado Street, Old Monterey Cafe keeps brunch classic without feeling dated. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by cheerful chatter and the familiar clink of coffee mugs—a place where locals genuinely linger. Not long ago, I ducked in on a rainy morning and left the world behind over a stack of pancakes that somehow tasted like weekends should.
Generous plates and comfort staples stand out here. The scrambles—especially the veggie option with melting cheese—capture everything cozy about Sunday brunch. For something sweet, their blueberry pancakes are a must; fluffy, golden, and loaded with fruit. If you like your brunch with no fuss and plenty of flavor, this spot nails it every time.
2. Rosine’s Restaurant
Sitting at Rosine’s, you get the sense that every dish has a family story behind it. This place brings **comfort food to a level that feels both homey and unforgettable**. I once ducked in for a weekend brunch, drawn by the buzz of happy diners and the sight of impossibly tall cakes behind the counter. The meal never felt rushed, only cozy—like brunch at a longtime friend’s house.
Rosine’s shines with signature brunch dishes such as their Eggs Benedict. The sauce is glossy and bright, the eggs always perfectly poached. Their veggie omelets come packed with fresh ingredients and an extra pinch of homemade flair. If you need a sweet finish, a slice of their famous layered cake might just steal the show—and your attention.
3. Paris Bakery Cafe
Paris Bakery Cafe is the kind of spot that tempts you from the sidewalk with the scent of fresh bread and pastry. **Bright cases filled with flaky croissants and delicate fruit tarts** hint at the care that goes into everything here. I remember stopping by early one morning, greeted by the friendly hum of locals grabbing coffee on their way to the wharf, and ended up staying longer than planned with a book and a perfectly crisp baguette.
For brunch, the quiche is a standout—light, rich, and brimming with seasonal veggies. The almond croissants hit the sweet spot, and their sandwiches—especially the veggie panini—strike a balance between hearty and fresh. Everything is made in-house daily, making each visit feel like a small celebration of flavor.
4. Wave Street Cafe
Wave Street Cafe sits just steps from Cannery Row, but it feels worlds away from the usual tourist bustle. **Sun pours through big windows, bouncing off plates piled high with market-fresh ingredients.** I first wandered in after a long walk by the bay, drawn by the relaxed vibe and scent of coffee. There’s no pretense here—just steady, friendly service and vibrant dishes that lift the mood.
The California omelet, packed with avocado and local greens, stands out for its sheer freshness. Their French toast, made with brioche and a hint of cinnamon, is perfect for anyone craving something sweet and satisfying. If you’re in the mood for brunch that delivers on both taste and atmosphere, Wave Street Cafe is impossible to overlook.
5. Schooners Monterey
Perched right above the bay, Schooners Monterey offers a front-row seat to the glimmering water and sea air—almost as essential as what’s on the menu. My last brunch here felt like a mini-getaway, with sun dancing across the waves and plates that made the view even better. Here, every meal comes with a touch of coastal elegance.
The avocado toast and fresh fruit plate showcase everything vibrant about California brunch. For those who lean savory, the roasted veggie scramble is hearty and satisfying, with the flavors of local produce shining through. Whether you’re catching up with friends or savoring a slow morning solo, Schooners mixes upscale touches with laid-back comfort, making it both special and easygoing.
6. Tarpy’s
Tarpy’s feels like a brunch retreat, set in a historic roadhouse with gardens sprawling around the patio. **Brunch here means breathing in mountain air while tucking into plates that blend rustic comfort and modern touches.** My last meal at Tarpy’s stretched out amid tree-shaded tables—just the way a slow weekend should unfold.
The garden scramble, filled with roasted vegetables and paired with crispy potatoes, sets the tone for a nourishing brunch. If you crave something lighter, their fresh salads—especially the strawberry spinach salad—bring bright flavors to the table. Tarpy’s is the place to go when you want brunch to feel a little special without losing warmth or charm.
7. C restaurant + bar
C restaurant + bar pairs sweeping bay views with a menu that leans into the best of Monterey’s coastal bounty. **Glass walls frame the sparkling water, turning even an ordinary brunch into a quiet celebration.** My last visit was a sunlit, easygoing brunch spent watching boats drift by while digging into the chef’s fresh creations.
The vegetable frittata, alive with local greens and perfectly melted cheese, is a standout for a reason. For something on the lighter side, their Greek yogurt parfait layers seasonal fruit and house-made granola, capturing their focus on freshness. Between the views and the thoughtful plates, C restaurant + bar lets you brunch Monterey-style—bright, lively, and just a bit indulgent.
8. Sandbar & Grill
Hidden below the surface of Wharf #2, Sandbar & Grill feels like Monterey’s best-kept brunch secret. **Here, big windows frame the marina, setting the mood for a laid-back meal with waterfront views.** My last brunch here involved a corner table, gentle salt air, and plates arriving loaded and fresh—exactly what you want in a coastal brunch spot.
The garden omelet pops with local vegetables, while their home-fried potatoes hit the right balance between crispy and tender. For something simple yet satisfying, try their sourdough toast, which brings a true taste of Monterey. With its friendly vibes and easy atmosphere, Sandbar & Grill proves you don’t need pretense when the food and scenery do all the work.
9. Turn 12
Turn 12 brings a bit of racing spirit to downtown Monterey with its motorsport-inspired decor and California comfort food. **It’s the sort of place where you can stroll in for brunch and feel welcome whether you’re fresh from the track or simply hungry for a hearty meal.** The buzz here is energetic, often punctuated by conversations about cars and good eats.
For brunch, their veggie scramble combines seasonal vegetables with just the right kick of spice, served alongside perfectly crisp potatoes. Their house-made sourdough toast deserves its own mention—chewy, aromatic, and generously portioned. With a menu that’s both familiar and fun, Turn 12 is perfect for a casual brunch that never skimps on flavor or personality.
10. The Wild Plum Cafe
The Wild Plum Cafe feels like a best-kept local secret, where organic produce and warm service anchor every visit. **The scent of just-baked bread and earthy coffee makes the place feel instantly comforting.** I once popped in for a quick brunch and found myself drawn in by the hum of neighbors chatting over cozy plates.
Their veggie scramble bursts with seasonal greens and heaps of fresh herbs, bringing farm-to-table flavors right to your fork. If you lean sweet, their pancakes are light and airy—a signature you shouldn’t miss. With a menu focused on local and wholesome ingredients, The Wild Plum Cafe is an easy choice when you want brunch to be both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best brunch spots in Monterey, CA?
Local favorites include Old Monterey Cafe, Rosine’s Restaurant, Wave Street Cafe, Paris Bakery Cafe, and C restaurant + bar. Each has its own personality, from classic diners to bayside tables with a view.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options for brunch in Monterey?
Absolutely. Most top spots—like The Wild Plum Cafe, Schooners Monterey, and Paris Bakery Cafe—offer plenty of plant-forward dishes, including scrambles, salads, and bakery treats.
Does Monterey have gluten-free brunch options?
Yes, many cafes and restaurants have gluten-free choices, especially Wave Street Cafe, Paris Bakery Cafe, and The Wild Plum Cafe. Just ask your server for details on substitutions.
Which brunch spot in Monterey is best for ocean views?
For a meal with a view, head to Schooners Monterey or C restaurant + bar. Both sit right by the water and deliver panoramic bay scenery alongside your meal.
Is brunch in Monterey good for families?
Definitely. Rosine’s and Old Monterey Cafe are both well-loved by families, thanks to generous portions and a relaxed, welcoming vibe.
Is it necessary to make a reservation for brunch in Monterey?
Reservations aren’t always required, but if you want a seat at popular places like Tarpy’s or Schooners on weekends, it’s smart to book ahead.
Do brunch restaurants in Monterey offer outdoor seating?
Many do, including Wave Street Cafe, Rosine’s, and Tarpy’s. Outdoor tables let you enjoy Monterey’s fresh air and, sometimes, a view of the bay or garden.