Fall along the Central Coast brings more than just golden sunsets and a chill in the evening air—it also offers an ideal time to explore the ocean’s bounty. As the days grow shorter and comfort food takes center stage, seafood becomes a delicious way to warm up while still staying light, bright, and full of flavor.
At Montrio, seafood is a year-round passion, but autumn invites deeper, richer preparations that feel just right for the season. Whether it’s a smoky, seared scallop or a bold, brothy Cioppino, every dish is guided by sustainability, crafted with care, and served with seasonal intention. As a proud Sustainable Seafood Watch Ambassador, Montrio makes it easy to dine responsibly without compromising on taste.
Fall: A Season for Ocean Comforts
A Monterey Tradition
As the cool ocean air rolls in and patio heaters glow, seafood becomes the ideal base for fall comfort dishes. The team at Montrio leans into the seasonal shift by adjusting techniques and pairings—incorporating smoky finishes, roasted vegetables, and rich broths to elevate fresh catch into cozy evening fare.
Sustainability at the Core
Being on the coast comes with responsibility. Montrio’s seafood sourcing follows the guidelines of the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Sustainable Seafood Watch program, prioritizing local fisheries and responsible harvesting methods. Guests enjoy dishes that support healthy marine ecosystems—and taste better because of it.
Dishes That Reflect the Depth of the Season
Cioppino: Coastal Comfort in a Bowl
The Cioppino is fall’s answer to chowder—only bolder and built for seafood lovers. This San Francisco-born stew features:
- Jumbo Lump Blue Crab
- P.E.I. Mussels
- Little Neck Clams
- Gulf Prawns
- Scallops
- All nestled in a Pomodoro sauce with Harissa, and served with grilled bread
It’s rich, warming, and perfect for cooler nights. The tomato base offers acidity to cut through the seafood’s sweetness, while Harissa adds just the right kick to awaken the palate.
Try it with: A glass of Tablas Creek Rhone Blend or the smoky Sunset in Oaxaca cocktail for the perfect pairing.
Seared Sea Scallops: Fall Elegance on a Plate
Scallops are a seafood favorite for any season, but they take on a luxurious quality in fall preparations. Montrio’s Seared Sea Scallops are plated with:
- Creamed corn risotto
- Cherrywood smoked bacon
- Tomato confit
- Juniper-aged balsamic vinegar
This dish blends summer’s sweetness with autumn’s depth. The bacon and balsamic bring warmth and smokiness, while the risotto adds creamy comfort.
Pair with: Frank Family Chardonnay or Massican White Blend for balance and brightness.
California Spot Prawns: Coastal Flavor Meets Fall Richness
Fall is a great time to enjoy the California Spot Prawns—a local delicacy that shines with Montrio’s squid ink linguine and uni cream. Add garlic, white wine, and fresh herbs, and this dish becomes a decadent mix of savory, silky, and briny.
It’s ideal for diners looking for a bold yet elegant seafood option that still feels grounded in the season.
Perfect with: The Ocean Strike cocktail or a chilled Lieu Dit Sauvignon Blanc.
Grilled Local Catch: Always in Season
The Grilled Local Catch showcases whatever fish is freshest and most sustainable that day—often rock cod, halibut, or lingcod—paired with seasonally inspired vegetables and sauces.
It’s a lighter option that still feels satisfying, especially when paired with one of Montrio’s shareable fall sides or a glass of coastal white wine.
Seafood for Every Preference
Not Just for Shellfish Lovers
Even for those looking for a meat-free meal, Montrio offers seafood-inspired vegetarian options. The King Trumpet Vegetarian “Scallops” are seared mushrooms that mimic the look and feel of real scallops and are served with the same thoughtful preparation:
- Creamed corn risotto
- Grilled asparagus
- Tomato confit
- Chives and juniper-aged balsamic
It’s a beautiful dish that fits right in with the fall mood—warming, rich, and visually stunning.
Start with the Sea
Appetizers like the Pan Seared Blue Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes or Fried Oyster Tacos make excellent introductions to a seafood-forward evening. The crab cakes are served with malt vinegar aioli and petite pea shoot salad, while the oyster tacos arrive with Béarnaise sauce, micro arugula, and watermelon radish.
Each bite is a nod to the coast, designed to tease the appetite and highlight Monterey’s fresh catch.
Pairing Drinks with the Depths
Fall Wines for Seafood
- Lieu Dit Sauvignon Blanc – Bright and grassy, excellent with lighter grilled fish
- Massican White Blend – Floral and elegant, pairs well with creamy preparations
- Daou Rosé – A dry, vibrant rosé that bridges the gap between seafood and spice
Signature Cocktails
- Clarified Colada – Creamy and citrusy, ideal for rich dishes like the Spot Prawns
- Thyme Traveler – Huckleberry, thyme, and gin to bring out herbal seafood notes
- Smoke & Mirrors – Table-side mezcal magic, bold enough for Cioppino or scallops
Mocktails for a Clean Pairing
- Montrio Spritz – Crisp and herbal, pairs with nearly any seafood dish
- Passionate Life – Passionfruit and mint offer a sweet-tart balance to spicy seafood
- Grapefruit Shrub – Refreshing with a citrusy bite, great for fried oysters or crab cakes
Monterey’s Fall Seafood Tradition
There’s something timeless about enjoying seafood by the sea—especially when it’s prepared with thoughtfulness and purpose. Montrio captures that spirit every fall, crafting dishes that comfort, excite, and reflect the best of both land and ocean.
Whether you’re here for the warmth of a broth, the elegance of scallops, or the boldness of coastal flavors, fall seafood at Montrio offers something special for every guest.
Experience fall the Monterey, CA way—with ocean-fresh, sustainably sourced seafood. Reserve your table at Montrio by calling 831.648.8880.
Catch of the Season: Your Seafood Questions, Answered
Is Montrio’s seafood sustainable?
Yes. Montrio is a Sustainable Seafood Watch Ambassador and works with purveyors who meet high standards for ocean health and ethical harvesting.
What seafood dishes are best for fall?
Favorites include Cioppino, Seared Sea Scallops, California Spot Prawns, and the ever-changing Grilled Local Catch.
Do you offer lighter seafood options?
Yes—grilled fish and vegetarian “scallops” offer lighter takes on coastal flavor while staying satisfying and seasonal.
Are there non-seafood dishes available?
Absolutely. Montrio offers Certified Angus and Wagyu steaks, duck, pork, chicken, and vegetarian entrées to satisfy every palate.
Can seafood dishes be paired with red wine?
Yes—lighter reds like Raeburn Pinot Noir or chilled reds work well with richer seafood like scallops or prawns. Just ask for pairing suggestions.