The best cafes in Salinas

“Casual shop spotlighting Vietnamese coffees and teas with contemporary desserts.”

“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, August 7, 2026

“Warm, wood-hued coffee shop serving European & Japanese-style cakes & pastries plus smoothies.”

“Hip spot serving specialty coffee, teas, espresso drinks and pastries near SJSU.”

“Need a serotonin boost that also does good? Itty Bitty Kitty Cafe lets you unwind in kitten playrooms with adorable, adoptable kittens, all supporting Itty Bitty Orphan Kitty Rescue’s mission to get every tiny meow into a forever home, so reserve a spot this week for maximum purr therapy.”

“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.”