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    Golden State Theatre

    3.1 (116 reviews)
    ModerateCinema, Music Venues
    Closed 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

    Golden State Theatre Photos

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    Came here to see The Phil Collins Story. Upon entering, they scan your ticket and you go to your seat. That's about the extent of anyone else helping you to your seat as there were no ushers. I was upstairs on the mezzanine level and found my seats easily. I saw other people having trouble locating their seats, etc. This was the first time I've been to a theater and there was no assistance at all. For a beautiful city like Monterey and a nice nostalgic theater, it just seemed odd and unimpressive. I hope this isn't always the case. The show itself was awesome though!

    Inside the theater. Looks like a courtyard.

    This was a great venue to see a comedy show. It's small enough to feel intimate but still large enough that it could easily host a concert too. First off, the venue is older in the best way. It's beautiful, full of charm, and has a uniqueness you just don't get in newer places. I'm personally a big fan of small to mid sized theaters with personality rather than giant venues built purely for mass audiences. This one definitely delivers on that. The theater feels like a mix of different historical influences coming together. I had a few guesses about its origins while I was there, and after a little Googling later I can say with confidence it's a restored movie palace/vaudeville theater that still hosts a variety of events today. It opened in 1926, and some of the original design features are still there. That honestly made me really excited because the place absolutely has those vibes. Inside, the architecture is really unique. It's kind of a courtyard meets castle theme. The ceiling was one of my favorite parts. It has a painted sky, with most of it covered by a canopy effect. Ceilings are such an underrated part of décor, but I always notice them, and this one was especially cool. There are also little decorative flower gardens under the windows that add to the courtyard atmosphere. Looking toward the stage really leans into the castle feeling, like you've somehow been transported back in time to watch a performance. Since we saw a comedy show the orchestra pit wasn't being used, but there were people sitting up in the balcony as well. The overhead lighting throughout the theater was beautiful too, very Tiffany lamp esque. Picture included. Outside the main theater area there's a bar and stairways leading up to the upper levels. I wish I had taken a picture but I completely forgot. The bathrooms are on opposite ends of the theater, and wow, talk about another little time travel moment. They're definitely old, but they work just fine. The stalls are shorter with smaller doors, which I assume matches the original partition style design. It reminded me of a saloon style restroom I once saw in an old historic town somewhere. For a moment it even made me feel taller than usual, which was unexpected. The theater is right downtown and within easy walking distance of a bunch of other businesses, which makes it a great place to see a show and then wander around afterward.

    More Amy Grant
    Lloyd C.

    Golden State Theatre is a old classic theatre where you can enjoy whatever movie is playing. As in, one screen only. However on this particular night, 2-15-25, we came here to watch a music concert featuring Amy Grant! The theatre looks like they used to have a organ player come out before the show to play music for the crowds before a stage play or movie started. The lobby had snacks and drinks to purchase. The restrooms were also in the lobby with the women's on the left side and men's on the right side. The concert was a nice intimate setting and Amy was awesome!

    The view of the stage from our seats. Row O.
    Anthony R.

    This was my first visit to the Golden State Theatre. Lovely older venue. I went with my wife and 16 year old kid to see Cheap Trick. It's one of my kid's favorite bands. The venue is very intimate, clean, and the staff was super friendly. They had two bars, one downstairs and one upstairs. Plenty of parking within walking distance and plenty of restaurants to eat at before you go in. We'll definitely be back.

    Alex H.

    Located in downtown Monterey, the Golden State Theatre in Monterey is a must-visit! We saw Allen Stone here in concert, and it was a phenomenal performance and overall great location. The theater itself is stunning. The interior is beautifully restored, keeping that vintage charm alive so it feels like you are stepping back in time. The seating is comfy, and the view of the screen is great from pretty much anywhere in the theater. They have an open bar and classic movie snack bar while the concert is going on so you can pick up some snacks and drinks in between artists. The staff here were all super friendly and helpful. The Theatre hosts a variety of events, from classic films and new movies to live performances and special events. They also do some cool community events and film series as well! Overall, the Golden State Theatre is a fantastic spot that combines historical charm with top-notch entertainment. We were so stoked to see Allen Stone in concert in such an welcoming and intimate atmosphere. Highly recommend checking this place out if you're in Monterey!

    Row K Orchestra right
    Tiffany S.

    This is an amazing historic theatre. We are blessed to have it. Yes, the acoustics suck. But you know what doesn't? Everything else! They have a great line up of nationally known acts. Lindsey Buckingham Chris Isaak Hall & Oates Bryan Adams Art Garfunkel You get the point.... The theatre holds 2k? Very intimate Most of the seats are original except the front 3 rows. They have a bar set up before shows Cocktails, beer, wine and soda. I always have a great time here. Being so close to the music, people stand in the aisles and dance, isn't that fun? Anyways if you are in town and there's a show here check it out!

    Dark Star Orchestra

    I've seen quite a few shows at the Golden State Theatre. It's clean and friendly and you can dance up in the front. I went to see Michael Franti and ended up on stage dancing with him in the front. I haven't had a bad experience there and the inside is really gorgeous.

    If she only knew how bad the sounds system was, bummer!

    I was very disappointed with the sound last night at the Samantha Fish concert, to the point of wanting to walk out. I know how good she is, but whoever is the sound engineer needs to sit in the middle of the mezzanine during setup. It the second time I have been there for a music performance in 30 days. The show was Post Modern Jukebox, and I sat again middle of mezzanine. When there was more than one artist singing with band, the voices became muddled to the point of unrecognizable and awful. It appears current the installed sound system needs adjusting when it comes to loud music? That will be that last band performance I will attend. Such a shame for the venue as it seems this is a new sound system, and the artists who have no idea how their music is coming across.

    View of the Golden State Theater from across the street.
    Steve C.

    Stand-up comic, Tom Segura, played to a 9:30pm sold out audience on December 4, 2022 and it was a fun, safe and memorable experience. The wife and I bought the tickets online and paid $20 extra for the "Skip the Line/Early Seating" tickets that let us just walk by 300-400 people that were literally lined up around the block on a cold night. The "Skip the Line/Early Seating" which allowed entry 30 minutes before the show did not have starting point posted so my wife had to ask a worker at the door "whats up?"and he said she can be first. The bar is located in the lobby and they do serve alcohol. I ordered 2 cans of soda for $3.00. The seats are comfortable and rock a little but there are no cup holders. Parking for a Sunday night show was not too bad. We parked about 300+/- yards away or 2 blocks away. There is no smoking allowed in the building. I did see a medium sized dog that appeared to be a Service Animal attend the show but I don't know if regular dogs are allowed to come too. The Men's Bathroom is very clean and you can still here the show if you have to go. If my review is read by management I would like to say "I like how you run the place, but if you serve cold drinks, in a plastic cup, with ice there should be a cup holder located somewhere on the seat and the "skip the line/early seating" start point should be marked so we know where to go."

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    The sound system is terrible. I could only understand half of what the comedian said.

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    Ask the Community - Golden State Theatre

    Does anyone know how to get in touch with someone at this theater? I have emailed twice with no response and called multiple times, but the phone line never gets picked up regardless of time of day.

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    Review Highlights - Golden State Theatre

    Located in downtown Monterey, the Golden State Theatre in Monterey is a must-visit!

    Mentioned in 3 reviews

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    Compact Disco - Nights at the Disco hit different

    Compact Disco

    4.0(48 reviews)
    0.0 mi
    Family-owned & operated
    Veteran-owned & operated

    The vibes are here but it all stops there…read more.. Let me start by saying that I love this place. Just needs a bit of cleaning up on their transparency. The 'keep it open' policy is something I appreciate but would also appreciate an itemized receipt when you close out. Here's why to keep your eye out when drinking at this establishment. 1- when you close out, it's helpful to verify what you consumed to ensure you're corrected charged. My receipt was the merchant copy and the customer copy. Itemized? Really had to ask for it. 2- the merchant copy - it asked for a tip and the total amount. When we closed out our beer and well drink, it was ~$28. Weird, right? So my thought was that they clearly charged something incorrect. 3- when there's something automatically charged, it had better be communicated to me upfront. The gratuity was automatically added and IT WAS 20%! No sign, no way to notify me that it was already added. It didn't even say so on the merchant or customer copy. On top of that, the copy asked for AN ADDITIONAL TIP. For something like that, I had better get great service. 4- The service here is spotty at best. There's usually one bartender for the often busy bar. Not a problem, usually. But with that high of a price, better serve your customers well and have a fully stocked bar. 5 - the options were lacking. Two things you'd think would be stocked but weren't - espresso (come on, even Kahlua) and apple liqueur for an espresso martini and appletini were too much to ask for, I guess. Overall, a disappointment. Good thing they have the vibes nearly right. But awful business practices.

    I came by looking for a good time out in my visit to this area and I had the most wonderful time…read more Our bartender , Jesse was absolutely fantastic. His drinks were amazing , his vibes and the way he welcomed each person , probably the sweetest vibe I've caught while I was out here. We were able to connect with other people at the bar and it was a wonderful experience. The atmosphere is so cool as well! Will definetly be back for my next visit !

    Photos
    Compact Disco - They are on the guestlist.

    They are on the guestlist.

    Compact Disco - The hallway has become the place to take photos for some reason. And we approve!

    The hallway has become the place to take photos for some reason. And we approve!

    Compact Disco - Always awesome when the Naval Post Grad folks come by

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    Always awesome when the Naval Post Grad folks come by

    Piano Lounge - Mark Banks

    Piano Lounge

    4.8(4 reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$

    What a great spot for live music!…read more It's comfortable and spacious and has a lot of people-watching potential, which can be a downside because there are a lot of passersby, including screaming kids. But it's an intimate venue that also actually has a lot of space. High top tables near the bar, for a chic city feel and then a couple of sofas near the music. I always try to grab a seat by the stairs, and they staff accomodates me if I need them to help me snag it (because in a wheelchair I can't sit at the high tables and the sofa area is often full). That's great service for you. I came in late Dec. for a favorite local act (check out Mark Banks if you have the chance, soulful yet modern). The bartender told me they don't have coffee and that I'd have to go downstairs. I looked as disappointed as I could, and he offered to go down for me. I left him a big tip for doing that but when I returned a few weeks later for the NYE live music, I went downstairs to grab my own coffee this time. I asked them if I could take it upstairs to the music and they said they serve coffee up there now, they have an espresso machine. I wonder how that transpired. If it's from the employee suggesting improvements, that's amazing. I had a dessert the first time and a cheeseplate the second time. The cheeseplate is a great value. Good service, cozy atmosphere, live local talent = new fave spot. Btw, they have some of the same menu items as Schooners, like the Angry Prawns, etc. So non-drinkers have options here.

    6:44pm Friday 24 March 2017 Perfect time to enjoy the live…read moremusic & relax with a martini before heading for dinner. Monterey is one of my favorite places in the world. Same feeling as walking into Harry's Bar in Venice for their chilled martini (& irresistable chicken sandwich). But where I am tonite is just as fine a place to spend one of those magic evenings around the world. Stop by n enjoy when you are in town.

    Photos
    Piano Lounge - Live music

    Live music

    Piano Lounge
    Piano Lounge

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    Deja Blue - Chicken wing/catfish dinner W/ collard greens and red beans and rice

    Deja Blue

    3.7(106 reviews)
    2.4 mi
    $$

    The ambience, food, staff and everything else is super amazing here but what makes Deja Blue stand…read moreout against all the other jazz places is their unique event center. The event center is the perfect place for birthday parties, conferences, meetings or any type of large get together. I really recommend it if you're trying to host something big!

    After supporting one of my Pastor friends, we decided to come to a restaurant we've never been…read morebefore. We searched up places near us, and this place had 4 stars. I will just say this was a very disappointing experience. When we arrived, no one was there. When the greeter did come, she hesitantly approached us and handed us a paper printed menu in a dark, empty restaurant, which immediately felt off to us. When our food was served, several items were served cold and lacked flavor. The catfish was barely seasoned and watery, while the chicken had this "special" barbecue sauce but no taste, the Mac and cheese was straight from a box, and was gummy like, and the greens tasted super watered down. The cornbread was extremely hard, and there were white particles floating in the water. Even basic items like the salt container were unusable, sticking to the container. The owner spoke with our group and hyped the restaurant up, but the food and overall experience did not match what was coming out of his mouth. I also noticed everyone else received cornbread with their meal while I did not. Assuming it came with the meal (since me and my brother ordered the exact same thing) I was later charged an extra $6 for it without being informed. Based on the food quality and overall experience, I won't be returning. If zero stars were an option, that's what I'd give.

    Photos
    Deja Blue - More food area

    More food area

    Deja Blue
    Deja Blue - Tables

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    Tables

    Schooners Monterey

    Schooners Monterey

    4.0(2.1k reviews)
    1.0 mi
    $$$

    We started with the Clam Chowder bread bowl, Brussel Sprouts appetizer, and the Dungeness Crab Dip…read more All 3 were excellent. I love Brussel Sprouts and order it anytime I see it in a menu. This was one of the best I've had. I like that it was more on the shredded side so it could cook evenly. (I hate when places halve the sprouts, but then don't bake it through. These were cooked to perfection here.) The crab dip was amazing...it's the morning after as I'm typing this and my daughter is still raving about the crab dip. We all agreed that it was worthy of the price tag bc there was a good amount of real crab in it. We really enjoyed the taste and texture. We wished there were more of the garlic bread for dipping! We waited for the clam chowder bread bowl to arrive, and tore into it so we could use that to dip! For our meal, we ordered the Harvest Salad, Organic Half Chicken, Honey BBQ Ribs, Wagyu Burger, and took a mandarin coconut sherbet to go. We were all very happy with what we ordered.

    I don't know if people still say bomb.com but it's def warranted here…read more It would be a shame to order a burger when in Monterey so I made sure I ordered something from the ocean on the other side of the glass of the seat next to us. I got the Cioppino, wife got the Crab Pasta and the kids got Fish N Chips + Chicken Tenders. I was very surprised to see a generous amount of crab in my soup. At some places, you get a claw and check that box off but not here. In addition to the real crab, there was a few giant shrimp, mussels, clams, fish, and calamari. Man...everything was very fresh and delicious. I would even have to probably say the best I've ever had! The soup was seasoned to perfection and not too tart. My wife's crab pasta was also very good! I shared mine with her and we swapped for a bit just to sample other dishes here. The kids plates were also high quality as expected from this nice restaurant inside the Monterey Plaza Hotel. To make my bday weekend even better I was able to score a spot right in front of the hotel which isn't easy since it was a non-raining Saturday. This is definitely a "come back and eat" place the next time we're in Monterey.

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    Schooners Monterey
    Schooners Monterey
    Schooners Monterey - View from the restaurant.. Get here early and watch the sunrise.

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    View from the restaurant.. Get here early and watch the sunrise.

    Golden State Theatre - movietheaters - Updated May 2026

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