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Food and Drink in Monterey

Monterey is a destination for food and wine lovers. From the cool-climate vineyards of Carmel Valley and the Santa Lucia Highlands to a thriving craft beer scene and seasonal farmers markets, the Central Coast delivers some of California's most memorable culinary experiences — all within easy reach of The Inn at 1252 Monterey.

Food and Drink

Carmel Valley Road,
Carmel Valley, Monterey, California, 93924

Distance from Hotel: 12 miles to Carmel Valley Village

831-372-2908

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Hours

Vary by venue. Most wineries offer tasting rooms open Thursday through Sunday; breweries are generally open daily; farmers markets run weekly on rotating days throughout Monterey County.

Prices

Wine tastings typically range from $20 to $45 per person. Brewery tastings start around $10. Farmers markets are free to attend.

Wine Tasting

Carmel Valley Village Wine Trail
Santa Lucia Highlands Wineries
River Road Wine Trail
Tasting rooms in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Downtown Monterey Wine Walk (A Taste of Monterey)

Craft Breweries

Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill (Downtown Monterey)
Peter B's Brewpub (Monterey)
Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot (Monterey)
Other Brother Beer Co. (Seaside)

Farmers Markets

Old Monterey Marketplace (Tuesdays, downtown Monterey)
Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Market (Fridays, Monterey Peninsula College)
Carmel-by-the-Sea Farmers Market (Thursdays, seasonal)
Pacific Grove Certified Farmers Market (Mondays)

Plan Your Trip

FAQ's

Where can I go wine tasting near The Inn at 1252 Monterey?

Some of the best wine tasting on the Central Coast is just minutes from the hotel. Carmel Valley Village offers a walkable wine trail with more than a dozen tasting rooms, while the Santa Lucia Highlands and River Road Wine Trail showcase the region's renowned cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. You'll also find tasting rooms in downtown Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

What craft breweries are in Monterey?

Monterey's craft beer scene is growing fast. Local favorites include Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill in downtown Monterey, Peter B's Brewpub, Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot, and Other Brother Beer Co. in Seaside. Most are within a short drive of The Inn at 1252 Monterey.

When are the Monterey farmers markets?

Farmers markets run year-round across the Peninsula. The Old Monterey Marketplace takes over Alvarado Street every Tuesday, the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Market runs Friday mornings at Monterey Peninsula College, Carmel-by-the-Sea hosts a seasonal Thursday market, and Pacific Grove holds a Monday market. Check market websites for current dates and seasonal closures.

What is the best wine region near Monterey?

Monterey County is home to several distinct wine regions. Carmel Valley is the most accessible from The Inn at 1252 Monterey and offers a concentrated tasting experience in the village. The Santa Lucia Highlands and River Road Wine Trail are further inland and known for award-winning Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Carmel-by-the-Sea and downtown Monterey also offer urban tasting rooms for visitors who prefer to skip the drive.

Can I tour a winery in Monterey County?

Yes. Many Monterey County wineries offer tours by appointment, including barrel room tours, vineyard walks, and food and wine pairings. Visit montereywines.org for a full list of participating wineries and to book ahead, especially on weekends.