Best Clam Chowder
Old Fisherman’s Grotto
39 Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey
(831) 375-4604, oldfishermansgrotto.com
Old Fisherman’s Wharf can seem like a stroll on a midway. There are colors and crowds, distractions and barkers – the last often trying to tempt you with a sample. While there are many worthy dining options on the wharf, only one can be said to have invented Monterey-style clam chowder. Yes, Old Fisherman’s Grotto. The secret? It’s creamier than New England’s version, with a nip of garlic. And it is so good the restaurant ships containers of the chowder around the country, probably outside of the U.S., as well. And if you need more proof they are doing something right, Old Fisherman’s Grotto opened in 1950.