What Food Is Monterey Famous For?

The vibrant coastal city of Monterey, California is an iconic American tourist destination. Famous for its stunning ocean views, historic Spanish-style architecture, and a wealth of attractions and activities, the city is also home to some of the best seafood in the world. From classic fish tacos to fresh, locally caught fish and shellfish, there is no shortage of delicious food to be found in Monterey.

One of the most popular dishes in Monterey is cioppino, a classic Italian-American seafood stew. Cioppino consists of a tomato-based broth filled with local Dungeness crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, scallops and calamari. The dish is typically served with crusty sourdough bread for dipping into the flavorful broth.

This hearty meal has been a staple in Monterey since Italian fishermen first brought it over from Genoa in the late 1800s.

Another dish that has been enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for decades is abalone steak. Abalone is a large sea snail found off the coast of California that has become increasingly rare due to overfishing. Abalone steaks are made by pounding the meat until it becomes tender enough to cook quickly on a hot stovetop or grill. The delicate flavor of this local delicacy pairs perfectly with simple sides like mashed potatoes or sautéed vegetables.

No trip to Monterey would be complete without sampling some fresh fish tacos. The traditional Mexican dish consists of lightly fried or grilled fish served on warm corn tortillas with shredded cabbage, tomatoes, onions and cilantro.

These tacos are usually topped with spicy salsa or creamy guacamole for an extra kick of flavor. Fish tacos are sold at many restaurants throughout Monterey and can also be found at beachfront stands during summer months.

In conclusion, Monterey is famous for its abundance of delectable seafood dishes that have been enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for generations. From cioppino stew to abalone steak and fish tacos, there’s something for everyone in this seaside city.