Old Fisherman’s Grotto
39 Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey
(831) 375-4604, oldfishermansgrotto.com
It takes a lot to make it for 10 years in the restaurant business, such as developing a loyal local following, even in a tourism-driven neighborhood. It takes even more to make it for 75 years, which is how long Old Fisherman’s Grotto has been serving up its famous clam chowder (see Specialty Foods section), crab cakes, cioppino and more. Besides staying true to a culinary vision, the Shake family helped make Fisherman’s Wharf what it is today. “It’s a very personal business where you get to know your customers,” owner Chris Shake says. “As long as you are consistent and their favorite dish is just like they had it the last time they were here, they come back. And that equals success.” Weekly readers concur.
