7 Best Clam Chowder Spots in Monterey

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of clam chowder on a cold winter day. This classic dish can be found at many different restaurants in Monterey, but we’ll help you find the best one for you.

The Best Clam Chowder Spots in Monterey Peninsula

Our guide will help you find the best spot for you, based on your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a classic version or something a little more adventurous, we’ve got you covered. So grab a spoon and get ready to enjoy some of the best clam chowder in Monterey!

What is Clam Chowder?

Clam chowder is a soup that typically contains clams, potatoes, onions, and celery simmered in a creamy broth. It originates from New England, where it was first made by fishermen using the day’s catch.

Nowadays, there are many different versions of this dish – from classic New England-style to Manhattan and Rhode Island-style. No matter what your preference is, you’re sure to find a delicious bowl of best clam chowder in Monterey!

The history of clam chowder

Clam chowder has a long and interesting history. The first recorded recipe for this dish dates back to 1832, but it is believed to have been around long before that.

Fishermen in New England would make clam chowder using the day’s catch, which usually included clams, potatoes, and onions. They would cook everything together in a large pot over an open fire.

Over time, the dish evolved and different regions developed their own unique versions. Nowadays, you can find clam chowder all over the world – from New England to Australia!

The different types of clam chowder

New England-Style Clam Chowder

As we mentioned earlier, there are many different types of clam chowder. The most common ones are New England-style, Manhattan-style, and Rhode Island-style.

  • New England-style clam chowder is the most popular and well-known type of clam chowder. It is usually creamy and thick, and often contains bacon.
  • Manhattan-style clam chowder is made with a clear broth instead of a creamy one. It also typically contains tomatoes, which give it a slightly sweeter flavor.
  • Rhode Island-style clam chowder is similar to Manhattan-style, but it is usually thinner in consistency. It also often contains sausage or pancetta, which adds a nice smoky flavor to the soup.

Where to find the best clam chowder in Monterey Bay

Now that you know a little bit more about best clam chowder in Monterey, it’s time to find the best spot for you! Here are 7 of the best places to get best clam chowder in Monterey:

  • Old Fisherman’s Grotto
  • The Wharf Restaurant
  • Cannery Row Brewing Company
  • Wave Street Inn
  • Montrio Bistro
  • Pebble Beach Sports Bar & Grill
  • Fish Hopper Seafood & Steaks

Old Fisherman’s Grotto

If you’re looking for a classic New England-style clam chowder, look no further than Old Fisherman’s Grotto. This restaurant has been serving up delicious seafood dishes since 1947 and their clam chowder is no exception. It is creamy and thick, with a perfect balance of clam and potato flavor. You can also add bacon to your soup for an extra delicious treat!

The Wharf Restaurant

The Wharf Restaurant is another great choice for a classic New England-style clam chowder. Their soup is made with fresh clams, potatoes, and onions simmered in a creamy broth. It’s the perfect comfort food for a cold winter day.

Cannery Row Brewing Company

For something a little different, try the Manhattan-style clam chowder at Cannery Row Brewing Company. This soup is made with a clear broth and contains tomatoes, onions, and celery. The addition of tomatoes gives it a slightly sweet flavor that is unique and delicious.

Wave Street Inn

If you’re in the mood for a Rhode Island-style clam chowder, Wave Street Inn is the place to go. This soup is made with a clear broth and contains sausage or pancetta, which adds a nice smoky flavor to the dish. It is also thinner in consistency than other types of clam chowder, making it perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Montrio Bistro

Montrio Bistro is another great option for a Rhode Island-style clam chowder. Their soup is made with fresh clams, bacon, potatoes, and onions simmered in a clear broth. It is light and flavorful, with just the right amount of smokiness from the bacon.

Pebble Beach Sports Bar & Grill

Pebble Beach Sports Bar & Grill is a great choice if you’re looking for a hearty clam chowder. Their soup is made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and celery simmered in a creamy broth. It is thick and filling, making it the perfect meal for a cold winter day.

Fish Hopper Seafood & Steaks

Last but not least, Fish Hopper Seafood & Steaks is a great spot for a delicious bowl of clam chowder. Their soup is made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and celery simmered in a creamy broth. It is rich and flavorful, with just the right amount of clam flavor. Whether you’re looking for a classic New England-style soup or something a little different, Fish Hopper is sure to have something that will please your palate.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a delicious bowl of best clam chowder in Monterey, this city has plenty of restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic New England-style soup or something with a little more flavor, there’s sure to be a restaurant that will satisfy your taste buds. So next time you find yourself in beautiful Monterey, be sure to check out one of these 7 best clam chowder spots!

FAQ

Can You Make Clam Chowder with Canned Clams?

Yes, you can make clam chowder with canned clams. However, it will not taste as good as if you use fresh clams. Fresh clams give the soup a more intense flavor and a richer texture. If you are unable to get your hands on fresh clams, canned clams will work, but they won’t taste quite as good.

Best Clam Chowder in Carmel by the Sea?

If you’re looking for the best clam chowder in Carmel by the Sea, Montrio Bistro is the place to go. Their soup is made with fresh clams, bacon, potatoes, and onions simmered in a creamy broth. It is rich and flavorful, with just the right amount of clam flavor. So next time you find yourself in beautiful Carmel by the Sea, be sure to check out Montrio Bistro for a bowl of delicious clam chowder!

Best Clam Chowder in Pacific Grove?

If you’re looking for the best clam chowder in Pacific Grove, The Wharf Restaurant is the place to go. Their soup is made with fresh clams, potatoes, and onions simmered in a creamy broth. It is classic New England-style clam chowder, with a rich and flavorful broth. So next time you find yourself in beautiful Pacific Grove, be sure to check out The Wharf Restaurant for a bowl of delicious clam chowder!
Rate article

Hi, I'm Carol Ortiz. I'm a travel blogger and a bookworm, from Phoenix, Arizona.
I love to read, write, and travel - in that order! I've always been an avid reader, it's my escape and my hobby. When I'm not reading or writing, I'm probably up into some adventure, while travelling.

Travel Best Ideas