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Best Italian Restaurants in Monterey

Best Italian Restaurants in Monterey

Curated guide featuring 7 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars

Home › Where to Eat › Best Italian Restaurants in Monterey

Monterey's Italian dining scene is a delightful surprise that rivals much larger cities, where passionate chefs blend Old World traditions with California's incredible local ingredients. Along this impressive stretch of coast, you'll discover everything from intimate trattorias serving house-made pasta with just-caught seafood to bustling pizzerias where the dough is rolled fresh daily. The Italian restaurants here aren't just serving food – they're creating experiences that transport you straight to a sun-drenched piazza in Tuscany or a cozy Roman neighborhood joint.

This guide showcases 10 exceptional Italian restaurants, each earning an impressive 4.5 stars or higher from hundreds of satisfied diners. You'll find good spots tucked away in Monterey's charming side streets alongside beloved institutions that locals have been raving about for years. Whether you're craving perfectly al dente handcrafted pasta, wood-fired pizza with that perfect char, or fresh mozzarella that melts on your tongue, these restaurants deliver authentic flavors that will have you planning your next visit before you've even finished your tiramisu.

Featured Restaurants

Rosine's Restaurant
$$

Rosine's Restaurant

★★★★☆
4.5
(4,368 reviews)

This beloved Monterey institution draws locals and visitors alike with its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu offerings that cater to every craving. With an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 4,000 reviews, Rosine's has clearly mastered the art of consistent, satisfying meals that keep diners coming back for more. Arrive early for breakfast or lunch to avoid crowds, as this popular spot's reputation for quality at reasonable prices means tables fill up quickly.

434 Alvarado St, Monterey, CA 93940, USA
La Bicyclette Restaurant
$$

La Bicyclette Restaurant

★★★★☆
4.5
(2,457 reviews)

La Bicyclette Restaurant has earned a devoted following among Carmel visitors, with over 2,400 glowing reviews praising its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu that caters to various tastes. The consistently high ratings reflect travelers' appreciation for both the quality cuisine and the restaurant's prime location in the heart of charming Carmel-by-the-Sea. Book ahead during peak tourist seasons, as this popular spot fills up quickly with both locals and visitors exploring the fairy-tale village.

Dolores St &, 2 7th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, USA
Vesuvio Restaurant
$$$

Vesuvio Restaurant

★★★★☆
4.5
(1,254 reviews)

This beloved Carmel institution draws both locals and visitors with its inviting bar atmosphere and consistently excellent food that has earned over 1,200 glowing reviews. The high ratings speak to Vesuvio's ability to deliver memorable dining experiences, whether you're looking for craft cocktails, hearty comfort food, or a cozy spot to unwind after exploring the charming streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Arrive early during peak tourist season to snag a spot at this popular neighborhood gem.

6th Ave &, Junipero St, Carmel, CA 93923, USA
Gusto Handcrafted Pasta & Pizza
$$

Gusto Handcrafted Pasta & Pizza

★★★★☆
4.5
(1,236 reviews)

This beloved Seaside gem combines the best of both worlds with handcrafted pasta and artisanal pizzas in a welcoming bar atmosphere that locals and visitors can't get enough of. With over 1,200 glowing reviews and a stellar 4.5-star rating, diners consistently praise the quality ingredients and authentic preparation that sets Gusto apart from typical chain restaurants. Arrive early for dinner to snag a table without a wait, as this popular spot tends to fill up quickly with repeat customers who know a good thing when they taste it.

1901 Fremont Blvd, Seaside, CA 93955, USA
Osteria Al Mare
$$

Osteria Al Mare

★★★★☆
4.5
(961 reviews)

located on iconic Cannery Row, Osteria Al Mare has won over nearly a thousand diners with its consistently excellent food and prime waterfront location that captures the essence of Monterey's maritime charm. The impressive 4.5-star rating from 961 reviews speaks to both the quality of the cuisine and the memorable dining experience that keeps visitors coming back. Book ahead or arrive early, as this popular spot tends to fill up quickly with both locals and tourists exploring the historic Cannery Row district.

32 Cannery Row Suite H, Monterey, CA 93940, USA
Il Tegamino
$$

Il Tegamino

★★★★☆
4.5
(414 reviews)

Tucked away in a charming courtyard behind Cottage of Sweets, Il Tegamino offers an intimate dining experience that has earned rave reviews from over 400 satisfied guests. This hidden gem serves diverse cuisines at reasonable prices, making it a beloved spot where travelers consistently discover exceptional food in Carmel's most enchanting setting. Arrive early to snag a table in the cozy courtyard space, as this local favorite fills up quickly with both visitors and residents in the know.

South side of Ocean Avenue between Lincoln and Monte Verde We are tucked in the Courtyard behind Cottage of Sweets, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, USA
Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar
$$

Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar

★★★★☆
4.6
(395 reviews)

This beloved Pacific Grove gem combines fresh pasta-making with artisanal mozzarella in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that draws both locals and visitors back again and again. With an impressive 4.6-star rating from nearly 400 reviews, travelers consistently rave about the authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality that make every meal memorable. Book ahead or arrive early, as this popular spot fills up quickly, especially on weekends when pasta lovers flock here for their handcrafted specialties.

Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar, 1188 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, USA

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