Taste the flavors of Monterey Bay by dining at Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette. It’s a local favorite that utilizes the flavors of Monterey. Picturesque backdrop against the Sand Dunes with beach views to follow, Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette provides the perfect backdrop to what will surely be a scrumptious dining experience.

“It’s a showcase destination area. We are still that destination where you can get away,” states Restaurant Manager Kyle Trudell. “We have direct beach access and we show guests we are that escape.”

The Central coast focused menu is comprised with levels of items from both land and sea.

Each item has levels and layers of flavor that will linger to your next bite. The oysters were outstanding. There may have only been three options for oyster lovers at this time, but don’t be fooled. The 3 showcased are definitely a top contender. The flavor in the grilled oyster is unmatched. Grilled to perfection with kimchi butter and topped with scallions, this oyster is the star of the show.  

“We want to showcase what Monterey bay has to offer, which is seafood,” states Trudell. “We are cooking and utilizing everything from the sea and we are smoking and cooking with almond wood as well.” 

Other sea favorites, and easily sharables, include Gulf Shrimp Scampi (lemon, herbs, and garlic) as well as the Smoked Trout and Artichoke Dip which is served with grilled bread, parmesan, and herbs.

This restaurant takes an innovative approach to a Beet Salad. The beets are softened by the vinaigrette which creates an inviting texture that welcomes the other components to the salad which include blue cheese from Point Reyes, Quince, and Walnuts. This particular Beet Salad is sure to convert anyone to loving beets!

Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette also has a few items on the menu that deliver ultimate comfort food full of Fall flavors, such as the Pork Chop. This thick pork chop sits atop creamy polenta, brussel sprouts, caramelized onion, and apple chutney. It’s simply what dreams are made of. The creamy polenta creates a smooth consistency to balance the flavors of this dish. You have the juiciness from the thick chop and the tanginess from the sprouts. Each bite is sealed in with the apple chutney.

For the non-adventure seeker, The Salt Wood Burger is also very nice. It’s a thick cut of Niman Ranch Beef, Tomato Aioli, House Pickles, Onion Marmalade, Pickled Red Onion, Monterey Jack Cheese on a Brioche Bun. Served with a side of thick cut fries, this burger is STACKED! Many restaurants have a burger option on the menu; however, the Salt Wood Burger is in a league of its own. You’ll need all hands-on deck for this as it’s loaded with flavors.

We are trying to give people a break from realty right now,” Chef Paul Corsentino mentions. “We are offering comfort food in times when things aren’t so comfortable.”

Enjoy Monterey through your tastebuds, from sight and sea straight to your plate – you won’t be disappointed.