Summer in Monterey brings longer days, sun-drenched patios, and a crisp coastal breeze that’s just begging to be paired with a good meal. At Montrio, we welcome the season with bright, seasonal flavors and a dining experience that feels like a celebration of everything we love about life on the Central Coast. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or simply stopping by to toast the evening, summer dining at our downtown location is all about fresh tastes, easy elegance, and warm hospitality.
Golden Hour on the Patio
There’s nothing quite like golden hour in Monterey. The sky glows with soft pastels, the ocean air rolls in with a gentle chill, and the energy of the city comes alive. Our outdoor seating captures that coastal charm, offering a relaxed yet refined space to unwind. Guests can sip, savor, and settle in as the sun begins to dip—perfect for a spontaneous dinner date or a slow-paced evening with friends.
We’ve designed our summer ambiance to match the mood: welcoming, cozy, and effortlessly stylish. Think candlelit tables, greenery from nearby farms, and the scent of fresh herbs floating in from the kitchen. It’s the kind of space that makes you want to linger long after dessert.
Fresh, Seasonal Inspiration
Summer’s Signature Flavors
Our culinary team draws inspiration from the Monterey Peninsula’s peak-season ingredients to craft dishes that reflect the brightness of summer. Crisp vegetables, vibrant herbs, and hand-harvested fruit all play starring roles across the menu.
Starters like our Roasted Beet Salad and Burrata with Apricots bring a refreshing mix of textures and flavors—sweet, tangy, creamy, and herbaceous. These light, colorful beginnings set the tone for a summer meal that feels both satisfying and revitalizing.
Chilled & Refreshing Entrées
Warm weather calls for dishes that don’t weigh you down. Our Pan-Roasted Salmon is paired with lemon-caper beurre blanc and seasonal vegetables, offering a perfect balance of richness and zest. For a vegetarian-friendly option, our Ricotta Gnocchi with zucchini, tomato, and basil pesto brings a garden-fresh touch that’s as comforting as it is elegant.
Guests looking for bold, savory summer flavor might turn to our Charbroiled Pork Chop with stone fruit glaze—an elevated take on barbecue-season nostalgia, made for a coastal setting.
Wine, Cocktails, and the Joy of Sipping Slow
Crisp Wines for Summer Nights
Nothing complements the flavors of the season like the right glass of wine. Our wine list highlights bright, mineral-forward whites and chilled rosés perfect for pairing with seafood and salads. A glass of Sauvignon Blanc alongside the salmon or a citrusy Pinot Grigio with the beets and burrata brings out the best in both dish and drink.
Prefer something bubbly? Our sparkling selections are a go-to for celebrations and casual evenings alike.
Coastal-Inspired Cocktails
Our bar team brings the same seasonal mindset to our cocktail program. Think refreshing, garden-inspired drinks like our signature gin cocktail with cucumber, mint, and lime, or a bourbon-based sipper with stone fruit bitters and orange zest. These drinks are built to beat the heat while still offering layered, thoughtful flavor.
Whether you’re stopping in for an aperitif or wrapping up dinner with a digestif, there’s always something on the menu to match the moment.
A Space for Every Summer Occasion
Montrio offers a flexible, welcoming space for whatever summer brings your way. Planning a family gathering? We have cozy indoor seating perfect for celebrating. Need a quiet spot for a weeknight date? Our patio’s relaxed vibe and scenic setting are ideal for reconnecting. Hosting guests from out of town? Show off Monterey’s culinary side with a meal that combines global inspiration and local pride.
Summer is full of reasons to celebrate—big and small—and we’re here to make each one memorable.
Rooted in Monterey, Inspired by the Season
What sets our summer approach apart is our deep connection to Monterey. From the ingredients on the plate to the laid-back elegance of our space, everything we do is influenced by our surroundings. We’re proud to partner with local farms and purveyors, keeping our menu rooted in the region and fresh with each new season.
Our kitchen philosophy is simple: elevate what’s fresh, craft with intention, and serve with warmth. It’s a mindset that comes to life in every summer dish, every sip of wine, and every sunset seen from our patio.
Plan Your Summer Visit to Montrio
Monterey comes alive in the summer, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than with a flavorful meal shared in good company. Whether you’re drawn in by our vibrant seasonal dishes, our breezy coastal ambiance, or simply the joy of savoring the season, we’d love to welcome you.
Reserve your table at Montrio today and discover the bright flavors and warm hospitality that make us your Monterey dining destination.
📍 Monterey, CA | 📞 831.648.8880
