Crab Louie's Bistro: Delightful American Seafood Dishes on Monterey's Wharf

After an afternoon of whale watching, we came back a bit quizzy so the prospect of greasy fried food wasn't very appetizing. But as we headed off the wharf, we were enticed by the host outside of Crab Louie for a calamari appetizer included with special entrees from the menu. Hungry and eager to have warm food to calm our bellys, we thought to give them a try. Our waiter was great, accommodating, and attentive. Come to think of it, we were the only ones there since it was early in the evening. We ordered a lobster roll sandwich, stuffed sea bass, 2x fish & chips, and seafood pasta. Every entree was perfectly executed. Nothing was overcooked. Our meal included clam chowder soup and the promised calamari appetizer which tasted freshly made. French fries were crispy, just like the way we like it. The included cole slaw with some entrees tasted mild, flavorful and delicious. We expected a large tab especially with 7 guest and tip was automatically included. After revealing it was my birthday, our waiter immediately brought out a lava cake with ice cream to top our meal. Just like the movie, "Chef", the chocolate ganash in the center of dessert was "molten". We shared it amongst ourselves and it was divine. We felt so much better after our meal so our decision to eat at Crab Louie Bistro was worthwhile.

We went in blindly and gave it a chance!! Cute little place and our food was good. Service was very friendly. We got a table with an ocean view and got a bit of a show. I also have to give praise for their french fries, they were soooo good. They were a perfect golden crisp I hope you try it and have the same experience as my family did.

We tried to go to another restaurant on the wharf and were told no kids. This restaurant was very friendly, played with our kids, treated my husband and uncle to free beers for early Father’s Day, brought out a banana for our baby, and gave my son crackers for the sea gulls. Food was all very good! We had seafood pasta, salmon, and fish and chips. Calamari appetizer is kind of a tease but a nice gesture. Kids menu was also pricey $15 for essentially boxed Mac and cheese but all the attention they gave made it a very enjoyable meal

This place is very unassuming- I have had fresh fish all over the world and this was one of the freshest and tasty grilled fish that I have ever had! All the fish they serve is locally caught and you can taste the quality in the dish. The servers were very attentive. I was shocked when I checked yelp afterour meal and saw the low star rating for it truly deserves 5 stars! :)

Step into 1960 Diner and you’re instantly wrapped in fisherman’s warmth and classic charm. The food is absolutely delicious, with portions generous enough to share (or take home for later!). Every dish tastes homemade and comforting. The friendly service makes you feel like you’re coming home rather than dining out. A true gem.

We got free calamari and clam chowder apps with our entrees. Not bad. Lobster roll was pretty good, and the seafood Louie was too. We ate outside with our dog, and had good service. A bit pricey for the quality, but just what you expect at a high traffic tourist spot.

Like all of the other restaurants on the Fisherman’s Wharf, they have a greeter outside trying to get your business. She was a fun lady and said, ”Come on in for lunch! Happy hour and free Calamari!” I said, “What did you say about Calamari?” She replied, “You heard me girl!”. I also expressed we love Clam Chowder and she asked her guests that were seated next to her, “How’s the Clam Chowder?” They responded, “Very good!” She just seemed to have a fun personality and loved selling her restaurant. We were sold after walking up and down the pier looking at other restaurant menus. No regrets and we did in fact receive a small free appetizer of Calamari as she advertised. Waiters & Waitresses seemed to be having fun and enjoying their job. We got lucky and got moved to a table with a view. Everything was delicious and there were a lot of items to choose from on the menu. Be prepared that prices are going to be inflated since you are eating right on the pier just like anywhere else. We had two mimosas, Chicken Tenders & Chips & a Clam Chowder Bread Bowl (Free Calamari of course!) and the total was around $65 before tip. Try this place! You won’t regret it!

Service was amazing. Excellent and the guy was very kind and polite allowing us to have the baby with the stroller however, the food can improve. I’m giving it four stars because the grotto next door was extremely rude. About us having a baby gotta give crab Louise a shout out for welcoming us with the baby very kind person.