The best cafes in Monterey County

7 cafes we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Cafes · 7 places · showing the latest additions first

Waypoint pours reliably good coffee and gives you just enough calm to knock out that last email before you bolt. An easy, no-drama option…

411 Dyer Road Suite 177A (Monterey)

“Waypoint pours reliably good coffee and gives you just enough calm to knock out that last email before you bolt. An easy, no-drama option for Seaside folks who want a quality pick-me-up without fuss, plus a friendly crew that remembers faces.”

From the Monterey newsletter, October 1, 2026

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Acme Coffee Roasting Co keeps Seaside fueled with house roasts like Valve Job, Road Dog, and Motor City Espresso, plus a rotating Roaster's…

485 B Palm Ave (Seaside)

“Acme Coffee Roasting Co keeps Seaside fueled with house roasts like Valve Job, Road Dog, and Motor City Espresso, plus a rotating Roaster's Choice every 3-4 weeks, so you can switch it up without leaving town... and yes, they do the hot, cold, and pastry-to-go thing right.”

From the Monterey newsletter, September 11, 2026

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Villa Rivera Café is sister-owned and genuinely community-minded, turning fresh organic ingredients into substantial eats and drinks, with…

142 W Alisal St Ste. E-112 (Salinas)

“Villa Rivera Café is sister-owned and genuinely community-minded, turning fresh organic ingredients into substantial eats and drinks, with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and keto options, plus pastries from The Sweet Life and naturally leavened loaves by Otto's Bread Company that make weekday breaks way better.”

From the Salinas newsletter, October 7, 2026

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Long-running chain specializing in freshly made donuts, plus a variety of sandwiches & drinks.

1120 S Main St (Salinas)

“Long-running chain specializing in freshly made donuts, plus a variety of sandwiches & drinks.”

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Long-running chain specializing in freshly made donuts, plus a variety of sandwiches & drinks.

969 E Alisal St (Salinas)

“Long-running chain specializing in freshly made donuts, plus a variety of sandwiches & drinks.”

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When you want a no-fuss, made-to-order fix, Old Monterey Cafe nails it with a nostalgic diner vibe, generous portions, and…

489 Alvarado St (Monterey) · ✓ checked Sep 10

“When you want a no-fuss, made-to-order fix, Old Monterey Cafe nails it with a nostalgic diner vibe, generous portions, and fresh-from-the-griddle favorites like French toast, buttermilk pancakes, and eggs Benedict. Slide in this week, sip coffee, and let them handle your morning right.”

From the Monterey newsletter, September 18, 2026

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The Wild Plum Cafe keeps mornings and lunch easy with organic, sustainable, handcrafted fare that tastes like someone actually cares. Head…

731 Munras Ave Ste b (Monterey)

“The Wild Plum Cafe keeps mornings and lunch easy with organic, sustainable, handcrafted fare that tastes like someone actually cares. Head downtown when you want a cozy spot for wholesome breakfast, a satisfying lunch, and a little something sweet to pocket for later.”

From the Monterey newsletter, September 24, 2026

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