Bookworks a perfect coffee shop mixed with an old-school bookstore…read more The bookstore opens at 9:30 and is accessible via the coffee shop or from the street. It had a lovely selection of books along with local artist artwork and postcards that you can purchase. The coffee at Bookworks was solid. I really enjoyed the cappuccino and the iced vanilla latte. The overall aesthetic of the coffee shop feels like a scene from "Friends", I was a fan of the deep and comfy leather couches.

A CAFE AND A BOOKSTORE, ALL IN ONE PLACE?!! I couldn't run fast enough! No, seriously... I was the…read moredorko running to the door. Haha. And then I tasted their banana cream latte (a special), and it was as dreamy as its name! Mm mm good! Walking around the bookstore while waiting for my order and then after my coffee break was a perfect way to spend an afternoon. Bookworks is a 'must visit' in Pacific Grove if you're in town. And if you live in the area, they have a large self seating area where you can easily stay to read, study or work.

Picked up drip coffee with my wife on our way through town. Road tripping is the best when drinking…read morecoffee. This place is a fun shop, great drip and friendly staff. I picked up a "coffee" flag pin. It paired well this a hat purchased later on the road trip

We were in town for a street festival. We wanted to start the day with some coffees…read more This location is right on the main street. So there was a line. The barista s kept the line moving. Good thing I pre read the menu. When I got to the front, the barista said what do you want. Not the most polite greeting. But I truly understand that this was not a normal day. So I quickly explained what we wanted. The coffee was good. A nice smooth roast. Because of the crowds, I didn't get to look around. Is it just me, or has coffee really gotten expensive.

This cold brew will hit you in the chin like a randy johnson fastball . Strongest i ever did have…read more It literally cured a hangover. Also , friendly, personable staff. Wish they had a few more food options . Will definitely be back !

the coffee is very expensive for a very small amount. i also found my drink to be very watery and…read morenot super flavorful (i got an iced mocha). the staff are super nice though if you're in Monterey there's definitely better coffee shops in the area.

Some people think that the live music here is too loud, and it turns people away... But I think…read moreit's awesome and to that I say: Turn it up!!!! The coffee is just alright and the matcha is not that great, but it's called a Meetinghouse not a Drinkhouse, so I'll let it slide.

The pastries are generous in size, but I found the cinnamon crumb cake a bit dry this time…read more I tipped 20% upfront (the first option on the payment screen) and simply expected a pleasant experience. I specifically ordered my London Fog and crumb cake for here and even mentioned how much I'd enjoyed the last crumb cake because it had been warmed so well. Instead, my drink was called out and served in a paper to-go cup. When I politely mentioned that I'd ordered it for here, there was no acknowledgment. Small details like that can make customers feel less welcome to stay. I also took one bite of the crumb cake and realized it was dry. I left it on the counter with the plastic fork, but no one asked if anything was wrong or checked in. Again, it's a small thing, but it added to the feeling that hospitality wasn't a priority. Everyone has off days, and this may have been one of them. Still, genuine hospitality is often found in the little things: listening to a customer's request, acknowledging it when it's missed, and making people feel welcome rather than processed.

Cash only! Traditional establishment with large pastries…read more - Muffin : was a blueberry flavor that day, very soda bread scone tasting. Enjoyed the crumb top and plentiful berries! Very moist - Berry danish : the pastry itself was a little chewy for my taste, but overall not bad!

Pavel's is a Pacific Grove institution! Be prepared to wait in a long line right when they open--it…read moremoves fast, but the crowd confirms how fantastic their European-style pastries are. The four of us grabbed croissants and sandwiches, and the quality was superb: flaky, rich, and clearly made with care. The dedication to artistry is evident in every bite. The only real snag is the payment: Pavel's is strictly cash only. While the baked goods are four-star excellent, the need to remember physical currency keeps it from a full five. Come prepared with cash, and you won't be disappointed by the treats!

Very cozy place, pastries are excellent. Bought blueberry…read moremuffin, raisin roll, pistachio roll, very delicious. Very good price compared to other French bakeries.

Cute little bakery in Monterey/Pacific Grove. We had lunch nearby and I wanted to grab my mom…read moresomething sweet for her birthday. I got her an almond raspberry croissant. It was really very tasty and good sized. They had a lot of other cute desserts that looked good. Service was friendly and efficient.

With no schedule on a Friday morning, I decided to get something for breakfast. A short walk from…read moremy hotel on the less busy side of Cannery Row, I walked in a little after 9 am. A few people were waiting to order and more customers walked in as I studied the menu. I jumped into the line and after a short wait, placed my order. Rather than carrying my breakfast and beverage back to my hotel, I decided to enjoy the sights and sounds from their outdoor dining area. The expediter called my name and I shortly brought my purchases to a table facing the bay. I started with a hot chocolate, medium (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=SGdMOIoQV6_t-uothYYbfw, perfect for this foggy Friday morning. It was perfectly hot and not overly sweet. I enjoyed this as it's been a while, drinking this. I also got a sausage English muffin, cheese, egg, jalapeno aioli, onion (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=WgF_AQ-xeUkLIxZF6dRZlg); I was surprised by the size as it towers over the golden arch version of this. The jalapeno aioli was subtle and the onion added a nice crunch and flavor to the sandwich. The filling (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=NZaPMZCiCXJhrKg3VKuZgw) is generous. I also brought an item that I'd never seen to take back for a future snack or breakfast, the peach fritter (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=0&select=t303wZ8QRnuNuXk6rP16bw). With the staggering number of things that I bought from a downtown bakery, I didn't get to it till several days later. The dining room was about half full and the outdoor dining area was about the same on this cool, slightly foggy morning. Here's a shot of my view as I had breakfast (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=0&select=GTQiFiqy226JtcYrGIauwg). Big thanks to the kind and efficient cashier and expetiter. I would return here for breakfast if wanting something light and quick. It's directly next to the Monterey Plaza Hotel.

Five stars for the location alone. Huge patio overlooking the bay. I ordered a raspberry iced…read morelatte. Not too sweet but I wish I could taste the coffee a little more. I should have asked if their syrups are made in house and/or the brands. I did not get a chance to try any food items but they sounded delicious! Service was very kind, casual, and patient! Their website is awesome by the way! Very coastal zen.

Dick Verde: Brussel Sprouts are crispy with enough mass to…read morereally sink your teeth into! The balsamic vinegar adds enough sweetness to make each bite addicting. Just the right amount of char and flavor! Butter Brickle Malt Milkshake: Pretty solid! Thick creamy milkshake. Tasted like what Butterbeer would taste like. Roadsides hot dog: This hotdog was pretty sweet with the bbq sauce and sauteed onions. The dog is wrapped in bacon and topped with mac n cheese. It's a little hard to eat such a stacked hotdog but that's really not a complaint. Why complain when you get more of a tasty meal? I do wish I could order a pickle or something sour that I could use to contrast the hot dog in between bites. Overall, the food menu looks really interesting, the food is delicious and I'd love to continue to explore the menu the next time I visit. The service is friendly and the food comes out relatively fast! Ambiance wise, it's a pretty laid back beach skater vibe with lots of decorations to look at! I got the pleasure to come here on a day where there was a live band and it really added to the atmosphere. Highly recommend stopping by here when you get a chance. :)

Surfer / skater dude vibe snack / dessert shack along the lighthouse blvd near the Monterey coast…read more(technically pacific grove?). Good place to take a break and something for all tastes! Food is tasty and hits the spot good for a midday snack or to rest up a bit. They have some unique flavor combos like a tater tot / guac / nachos combo Brussels were good and had lots of char on it Didn't get to try their hot dogs but looks like a popular item!

The menu is varied; something for everyone. The pancakes are fabulous!…read moreGood coffee! Considering the lines of people waiting, they move very quickly to get customers in. The heated cement seats are warm and cozy outside. I usually order food to go on the weekends so my grandchildren can have their favorite pancakes.

As locals, we have had the opportunity of visiting First Awakening since they first opened down the…read morehill. The quality of the food, the service, as well as the pricing of the plates, has been consistent since the opened. They may have to raise prices given our wonderful economy, however, and we make this point, the selections, and portions of food is never reduced. Now for those who always seem more intent on complaining about food ,or service, Have we experienced less than great servic,certainly. Have experienced poor food, NO. Now for those whose visit seemed to be a disaster, rember, Cannery Row has many fine restaurants. Too the rest ofus, just keep on smiling.

Alas, I thought I reviewed this last February 2025 after visiting, but I did not! This is a lovely…read morelittle cafe located in the Asilomar Conference Grounds. The staff is friendly. They serve drinks, sandwiches, and snacks. If you are staying on the grounds, you'll likely make at least one stop here daily. There is a nice view toward the Pacific Ocean as well, but to see it you'll have to get a bit closer to the shore. The staff was nice and helpful. Jovel was always a friendly presence. It's been a year since I stayed at Asilomar for a conference, but this was a welcoming cafe.

Short stroll from the beach, the shop has plenty of food and beverage options…read more Service is quick and friendly. Muffins and latte are excellent!