When your city’s nickname is the “Salad Bowl of the World,” then you’re probably expecting to find some amazing local restaurants. And that’s exactly what you’ll find in Salinas, CA. Whether you’re looking for a favorite breakfast spot or a restaurant using locally sourced ingredients, you’re bound to find it living in Salinas, CA.
And if you’re new to the area or recently moved into your first apartment in Salinas, you may be wondering just where to go for a bite out. Redfin has a list of 9 must-try Salinas restaurants to add to your list. Let’s dive in.
Situated in the heart of downtown Salinas, First Awakenings is a classic breakfast and lunch spot with fresh and amazing options. You can find a variety of dishes at First Awakenings – anything from their famous pancakes either plain or with fillings like blueberries, granola, or seasonal fruit, omelettes with veggies or meats, as well as grilled sandwiches and more.
Deciding between renting or buying your next home? Explore your options.
Compare the costs of renting vs buying and find a lender to secure your mortgage.
Cuisine: Mexican restaurant Address: 122 W Market St, Salinas, CA 93901 El Charrito’s Website
Serving Mexican food, El Charrito’s Salinas location is another option to add to your list of must-visit restaurants. From burritos, burrito bowls, tortas, taquitos, and a breakfast menu, there’s lots of options to choose from.
Another must-try Salinas restaurant is Eagle Restaurant. You’ll find a variety of Chinese dishes like chow mein, walnut shrimp, spicy lemongrass chicken, and Szechuan beef at their downtown Salinas location.
If you’re looking for a bakery serving fresh-baked bread like ciabatta, whole wheat, and brioche, sandwiches like pulled pork, BLT, and egg salad, as well as muffins and scones, make sure to grab a bite at The Bakery Station.
Maybe you’re on the hunt for a restaurant that blends American history with local cuisine? If so, head to The Steinbeck House Restaurant, the childhood home of author John Steinbeck, where you’ll find dishes rotating each week.
#6: Growers Pub
Cuisine: American restaurant Address: 227 Monterey St, Salinas, CA 93901 Growers Pub’s Website
Established in the 1940s, Growers Pub serves a variety of classic dishes like Monterey Bay calamari, Salinas Valley wedge salad, pork chops, chicken Marsala, and prime rib with your choice of potatoes.
You can find Norma’s Restaurant located in South Salinas, where there’s a great selection of items like chilaquiles and California benedicts, seasonal strawberry French toast, calamari steak sandwiches, and homestyle meals like pork chops and country fried steak.
#8: Villa Azteca
Cuisine: Mexican restaurant Address: 157 Main St, Salinas, CA 93901 Villa Azteca’s Website
If you’ve recently relocated to Salinas and are searching for a family-owned and locally sourced Mexican restaurant, you can find that at Villa Azteca. From tacos on handmade tortillas and lobster quesadillas, to prawns in mango sauce and chicken mole, there’s always something new to try.
House hunting made easy
See new home listings on the Redfin app every 5 minutes.
At Salinas City BBQ, there’s a lot of options to choose from – pulled pork sandwiches and tri-tip, brisket, and St. Louis style rib plates to cornbread, beans, and home-made bread pudding. Salinas City BBQ is situated just west of downtown Salinas.
If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our
Editorial Guidelines here.
Alison is part of the Content Marketing team as a Content Marketing Specialist. In her 4 years at Redfin, Alison has written a variety of articles ranging from home design tips to housing affordability. A California-native, Alison currently resides in Seattle where you can find her catching a concert or exploring farmers’ markets. Her dream home is a cottage-style house with a chef’s kitchen and a cozy room to store and play vinyl records.
United States
Canada