Best Restaurant in Monterey County | Best Wine List | Best Sommelier - David Sidener
Sardine Factory
701 Wave St., Monterey
(831) 373-3775, sardinefactory.com
What would Monterey County be without the venerable Sardine Factory? Like a circus without clowns, it’s difficult to imagine. The restaurant opened in 1968 when Cannery Row was a street of mostly abandoned buildings, and it was the force that attracted all that surrounds the restaurant now. Clint Eastwood has filmed there. President Ronald Reagan requested its abalone bisque. The first-ever Master Sommelier test in the U.S. was held there. And speaking of wine, Sommelier Dave Sidener oversees a wine list that includes everything from local favorites to dusty rarities – truly dusty; the cellar is a must visit. He can direct you to whatever pairs best with your meal (and bank account). By the way, Eastwood keeps a wine locker at Sardine Factory.