Taste Cafe & Bistro
Taste Cafe & Bistro — photo 2
Taste Cafe & Bistro — photo 3
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Taste Cafe & Bistro

1199 Forest Ave #5, Pacific Grove, CA

★★★★★4.7(226 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

Nestled in Pacific Grove, this charming café-bistro strikes that rare balance between approachable neighborhood spot and genuinely impressive kitchen, where lovingly prepared dishes like their standout Eggplant Napoleon rival fine dining experiences at a fraction of the pretense. The unhurried pace and inviting outdoor seating make it an ideal gathering place for locals and visitors alike, whether you're settling in with a traditional coffee and pastry or lingering over a full meal crafted with obvious care and attention to detail.

What to expect

Outdoor seatingMeetingsFamily friendlyTraditional drinksSlow sitLight foodPastries

Google Reviews

Drew Clinkenbeard
★★★★★2 months ago

Back again. Now with pictures. The Eggplant Napoleon (sp?) starter eas best in show. Everything else would have taken that spot anywhere else. Didn't get a picture of the main (chicken apple sausages) because I ate it too fast. We had the mouse for dessert. Next time I'm getting the chocolate torte again and the creme brulee... Because why not? Best meal I've had in memory. Food isn't 0 sum so you can have multiple favorites but this is S tier. The food is beautifully prepared and presented and tastes even better. The service feels like you're at home only without the guilt and obligation. The prices are fair to low for what you're getting. My new favorite restaurant.

SAMUEL ACKLEY
★★★★★6 months ago

Taste and Bistro Café is hands-down one of the best places in town! The food is always fresh, flavorful, and beautifully made — you can really taste the love and care that goes into every dish. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the staff make you feel right at home from the moment you walk in! It’s the perfect spot to relax, catch up with friends, or enjoy a nice meal with family. Definitely a five-star experience — can’t wait to come back! Sam Ackley

Kit Pierce
★★★★★9 months ago

I came here with family on a vacation, and I could not be more jealous of the locals. The food here is incredible, the food lovingly prepared and beautifully plated (i couldnt help myself and took a couple bites before i remembered to take a photo. and then did the same with dessert.). I had the butternut squash pasta and the dark and white chocolate mousse with a cappuccino. im typically a light eater, but i couldnt help but finish everything. everything is house made, flavors are stand on their own and textures were phenomenal. absolutely 10/10, i hope they stay in business for a very long time.

Tongalag Liu
★★★★★a year ago

I absolutely regret dining here. The restaurant was clearly understaffed, leading to slow and inattentive service, but what made it worse was the outright rudeness of the staff. If I hadn’t been too hungry and short on options, I would have left immediately. The environment is very average—nothing special—and the crowd mainly consists of elderly patrons. This is a regular, no-frills spot, not a fine dining experience by any means. If you’re looking for a smooth and enjoyable meal, this place will likely leave you frustrated. Definitely not worth the visit.

Greer Oliver
★★★★★a year ago

Wonderful little find in Monterey. The food was delicious and well presented. We actually ate at a 5 star restaurant the night before and felt like this was the better meal. We were seated by the wall with all of the family photos and it was cool to see those same faces making the food and engaging with patrons. While we didn’t speak to the owners specifically, our waitress was very sweet and attentive. Would highly recommend trying this place out if you’re looking for a high quality meal that’s more modestly priced.

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