Quaint, waterside kitchen with seafood recipes & marina views, plus weekly specials & Sunday brunch.
Grace M.
Super delicious food, we loved the calamari. The view is great! We went for lunch and the atmosphere was perfect for a families but it did start to turn into more of a bar scene by the time we were leaving so if you’ve got littles with you maybe consider lunch time over dinner. Service was great and friendly. It is down some pretty steep stairs I did not see any wheelchair accessible way to actually get to the restaurant so be mindful of that as well. The bread pudding was perfect
… moreGina Hinds, Realtor
One of the best happy hours around! I’ve been here many times and the bar is often full so I was thrilled when I was finally able to get a spot with a friend. Even though we had a short wait, it was absolutely worth it. The clam chowder and calamari are both top-notch and never disappoint. Great food, great atmosphere, and a happy hour that lives up to the hype.
… moreArnold Flores
Sand Bar & Grill is a must-visit gem on the Monterey Pier.
It’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. Look to the left just as you enter the pier, about 15 parking spaces in. Park directly on the pier and pay for parking. It’s absolutely worth it.
There’s almost always a wait, so arrive early and put your name in. Once they call you to confirm your reservation, ring the bell twice when you arrive to let the hostess know you’re there. It’s a charming little ritual that sets the tone for the experience.
You’re immediately greeted with warm, fresh sourdough bread and butter that hits the spot and calms the cravings. Yum.
The crab appetizer was outstanding. One hundred percent fresh crab with no filler, served with cocktail sauce. Thick, juicy bites that tasted like the ocean in the best way.
The oysters were incredibly juicy. They are usually larger in November. The January oysters were California caught and slightly smaller, but still excellent. Served with horseradish, cocktail sauce, and lemon. Mmm mmm.
We paired the appetizers with a perfectly chilled bottle of Albariño and a Bloody Mary. Both were spot on.
To finish, we shared a large bowl of clam chowder loaded with meaty clams and hearty potatoes. Every spoonful was rich, comforting, and delicious.
Beautiful view of the bay and yachts. Romantic, cozy, and consistently excellent. Sans Bar & Grill is a yummy, unforgettable Monterey experience and an absolute must visit.
… moreElif Demirag
We had an amazing experience at Sandbar & Grill. We’re in Monterey just for one day, and we’re so glad we chose this place. The food was absolutely delicious — everything we ordered was spot on. The service was just as great; our server was incredibly kind, attentive, and made us feel very welcome. Special thanks to the server with the nose piercing — you truly made our visit even better. Highly recommended, and we’ll definitely come back if we’re ever in Monterey again.
… moreLuis Castilla
There were plenty of options for dinner that night, but after some research online, we found this incredible gem. A little secret? Order the clam chowder with a splash of sherry. Reservations are a must, as apparently, they are always packed. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was bright and lively and the wine selection was great! You’re also sitting very close to the water in a kind of secluded location, so the whole thing feels like a well-kept secret. A must if you’re in Monterey!
… moreMs D
We were actually aiming for another well rated restaurant on the wharf but saw the Sandbar and got intrigued, so we stopped in for a Saturday lunch. The place was packed, so that’s a good sign. We ordered the tubes and tentacles and a bowl of clam chowder, though I know the fish n chips are highly rated and that was a close second choice. Next time, we’ll order that because what we did have was really good. For a busy place, the service was quick and kind. The portions were generous, and the view was excellent. Will return.
… moreWalid Ali
I had lunch and dinner at this wonderful place every day during my stay in Monterey. The food was fresh, delicious, and always prepared perfectly. The staff were very nice and helpful in recommending the right dishes. Both the food and the atmosphere made dining here truly enjoyable.
… moreWilliam Barrineau
Mom was visiting the area and wanted seafood. I picked this place because of the venue. I would plan to arrive early and put yourself on the wait list for a table by the window and then grab a drink at the bar. The cocktails are STRONG and the bartender was a beast. He can get your drink to you in no time and you can sit and chat while you wait for your table. The food was pretty good, I think it needed some salt. But, I guess it is better to add salt cause you cannot take that away. However, the venue is such a vibe and that is why you should go. We caught the sunset over the water and the boats docked in the wharf. It was pretty spectacular. You will need to pay for parking if you decide to park next to the restaurant. All in all a really good night! Worth going for the venue alone.
… moreIsabel C
Truly a hidden gem. Small restaurant with lots of character. Top notch service and fantastic fresh seafood. So many options for great seafood choices with lots of flavor! Definitely recommended! Cannot wait to go back.
… moreHole In the Wall Seeker
Superb seafood, portion sizes were good. You can tell a good seafood restaurant by the little things they use, capers, 4 monks, lighte batter. Chowder was definitely the prize here, chunky full of herb seasoning. Awesome. Drinks were prepared well and everything came out quickly.
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