Castroville may be known as the ‘Artichoke Center of the World,’ but longtime locals will tell you its culinary pride runs deeper than that. And beyond giving the world this iconic vegetable, this Monterey County town is also an incredible place to eat. From new spots to the classics, the region’s diversity shines through in its restaurants. If you want to get to know the area through its seafood, farm-to-table fare, and more, start with these 18 highest-rated restaurants near Castroville.
Deliciosos Tacos Castroville
$ | (831) 632-0386 | WEBSITE
A stretch along Castroville’s main drag is where you’ll find a concentration of authentic Mexican taquerías and food trucks—like Deliciosos Tacos Castroville. The humble counter-service spot is the answer when you need a not-so-sad lunch to power through (another) neverending week. There are classic tacos and burritos on the menu, each generously loaded with the most flavorful fillings, from perfectly cooked tripitas to spicy meats, and served still warm.
The taco mastery happening here isn’t exactly a secret, so prepare to exercise the ever-dying art of patience.
Sea Harvest Moss Landing
$$ | (831) 728-7081 | WEBSITE
Come to Sea Harvest Moss Landing for the $14 fish and chips, and stay for the rest of the fresh seafood dishes that all fall under $20 apiece. The casual seaside spot on Elkhorn Slough serves seafood that’ll run you less than a tank of gas, like that headliner fish and chips (always add the extra superb shrimp) and regular favorites like rockfish tacos and shrimp ceviche covered in a homemade thick dressing.
This isn’t the place for your entire yacht club, but it’s perfect for strolling in for a last-minute lunch with a harbor view.
Shawarma King & More
$ | (831) 633-3333 | WEBSITE
Lamb and beef shawarmas are why you’re at Shawarma King & More, a casual Middle Eastern spot operating out of a Castroville gas station. Yes, a couple of solid vegetarian options exist—like the fresh falafel, and Greek fries loaded with herbs—but the ones full of meat are more flavorful and generous in portion. The beef shawarma wrap is a savory, juicy, garlicky dream loaded with spicy tahini and a handful of finely sliced lettuce.
And the lamb shawarma is rich, dressed up with crunchy pickled vegetables and tangy yogurt sauce. Order off the straightforward menu at the clean service counter, head to your car with the other customers in work boots and casual wear, and strike up a conversation about coastal drives while you wait for your takeout.
Li Yuen Chinese Restaurant
$ | (831) 633-3768 | WEBSITE
Li Yuen Chinese Restaurant is a family-owned spot serving generous portions of delicious food, which means you can walk in for your share of spicy orange chicken whenever you please. That orange chicken, either paired with the absolute best chow mein loaded with cabbage or the cream cheese won tons, is a non-negotiable part of a meal here.
Other Chinese staples that you’ll preemptively order a second plate of: the flavorful chow mein, the crispy won tons, and the orange chicken that bursts with taste.
Alfonso’s Authentic Mexican Food
$ | (831) 633-5572 | WEBSITE
The generously portioned wet burrito at Alfonso’s sets the bar impossibly high for every other Mexican meal, ever. The Castroville strip mall spot is the perfect destination for a quick and affordable road trip stop. Coming here is a great excuse to skip the fast food chains and fill up with the Super Burrito instead. The carne asada fries are cooked to a flawless crisp, and the combination plate falls apart with a nudge.
And even better, this location has about three times the flavor as the typical taco shop, and much less of a wait.
Trolley Car Rotisserie
$$ | (831) 632-0182 | WEBSITE
Trolley Car Rotisserie is serving some of Castroville’s best barbecue. The unassuming spot feels like it’s been around for years—like other Central Coast barbecue favorites—and the combination of cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and clean interior give this place a welcoming touch. This strip mall rotisserie nails the classic barbecue experience, including tender tri-tip that’s cooked to perfection. Be sure to get the standout chili beans, but don’t overlook the huge burgers on pillowy buns.
Guadalajara Bakery
$ | (831) 633-3538 | WEBSITE
You can find decent Mexican bakeries all over Castroville. But if you want exceptional, like freshly-baked-straight-from-the-oven exceptional, head to Guadalajara Bakery on Main Street. The main attraction at this charming spot is the warm, buttery cinnamon bread that’s prepared fresh behind the counter throughout the day. The smartest choice you can make is to try the melt-in-your-mouth polvorones, and pair them with one of their kid-friendly fruit drinks.
Just be ready to grab one of the few small tables in the cozy space.
Hanabi Japanese Restaurant
$$ | (831) 633-4262 | WEBSITE
We always feel like we’re dropping in on a favorite relative’s kitchen whenever we visit Hanabi Japanese Restaurant. This unassuming sushi spot is a family-run operation, which means exceptional service and fresh, high-quality sushi like the creative ‘OMG Roll,’ traditional sashimi, perfectly crisp tempura, and salmon teriyaki. Standout dishes include the hamachi Kama with its unique dressing and the artfully presented poke bowl.
Walk through the modest exterior to find generous portions, complementary miso soup, and the chef/owner preparing sushi with care. While the interior may not be fancy, you should absolutely settle in for a meal—the fatty salmon, yellowtail, and uni are the true highlights at this hidden gem.
Giant Artichoke Restaurant
$ | (831) 633-3501 | WEBSITE
There are artichoke spots in abundance in Castroville—from the roadside stands to the casual farm stands. Giant Artichoke Restaurant is the area’s most iconic. This fun, casual all-day spot doubles as a charming garden oasis that’s stocked with fresh artichokes, tangy sauces, and more. You’ll watch workers fry up golden artichokes in the open kitchen. And the cozy patio is ideal for dipping fried artichokes in ranch or anything from their menu of housemade sauces.
The crispy, hot fried artichokes, perfectly steamed artichokes, and satisfying fish and chips with heaps of fresh artichoke bread and interesting artichoke cupcakes are the must-orders.
Birrieria & Restaurant Estilo Coalcoman
$ | (831) 453-7060 | WEBSITE
Birrieria & Restaurant Estilo Coalcoman is a fantastic Mexican restaurant in Castroville that feels like you’ve stepped into a cozy family kitchen. Beautiful wood finishes surround the dining area, traditional Mexican music plays softly, and the aroma of simmering birria fills the air. Lunch here is like getting invited to a cherished family recipe session, but here, the kitchen cares a lot more about generous portions.
There’s a decadent Birria Ramen with rich, savory broth, perfectly balanced shrimp cocktail with fresh avocado, and impressive queso Birria tacos on homemade corn tortillas that melt in your mouth. Service is prompt but embrace it, especially since you’re enjoying quality time with your companions over a reasonably priced happy hour.
La Fortuna Bakery
$ | (831) 632-0411 | WEBSITE
La Fortuna Bakery is the Castroville morning spot (with a steady stream of regulars). The bakery and breakfast burrito counter shares a sunlit storefront space with the aroma of fresh pan dulce, and it’s where to stop before work—or any time you want to grab a table and enjoy a fantastic handheld meal with a cup of coffee. The chicken tamales pretty much melt in your mouth, and Chile Verde Burritos are served in warm tortillas that soak up the savory juices.
Hop in the friendly line, order a sweet concha for later, and stay for a quick bite or a leisurely breakfast.
Taco truck Nayarit
$ | (831) 588-8168 | WEBSITE
Taco Truck Nayarit makes the case that every day should be a taco truck day (though, they’re only open until the food runs out). At this Mexican spot along Highway 1, you’ll eat tacos that are fresh as hell, carne asada with perfectly grilled onions, and tacos de lengua that melt in your mouth. There’s also great shrimp tacos that are way more flavorful than the average seafood taco, and chicken tacos dripping with salsa.
Still, you’re coming here for those lengua tacos and grilled onions, and to spend time with some horchata in a space that feels like a lively roadside fiesta, complete with a smooth playlist and lots of relaxed energy.
Olivia’s Mexican Restaurant
$ | (831) 453-7026 | WEBSITE
There’s no shortage of authentic Mexican spots near Castroville, whether you want to grab quick al pastor from a casual stand or settle in for a full seafood feast. Olivia’s is the family favorite. The Castroville restaurant—complete with warm lighting, colorful papel picado decorations, and a bustling open kitchen—is serving tender Al Pastor tacos, fresh homemade guacamole, and delicious seafood dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Anticipation builds after you order as you watch the extremely friendly and attentive staff prepare meals with care and efficiency. Once you’re handed a steaming plate of food (with all the classic sides, too), dig in at your comfortable table, which is perfect for enjoying reasonably priced meals along with cold beers in this family-friendly setting.
Santa Fe Taqueria.
$ | (831) 633-6110 | WEBSITE
This taqueria is more vibrant than a Saturday market in Oldtown Salinas (yes, it’s a thing). The casual, counter-service space is covered with colorful tiles, and a large window lets you watch the staff prepare fresh tortillas—Santa Fe Taqueria’s specialty—each morning. This spot is one of the only places in the area that makes tamales by hand, and we’re lucky they do so here in Castroville.
The Chile Relleno is perfectly soft and flavorful, and is served hot with amazing salsa, or alongside Carne asada fries. When you’re done, make sure you grab one of the incredible, full-of-flavor guacamole or salsa cups to go.
Patio Drive In
$ | (831) 633-2178 | WEBSITE
Pulling into Patio Drive In is like rolling up to a friend’s roadside hangout and grabbing a quick, satisfying meal—but instead of just burgers, you’re getting a surprising mix of American and Asian flavors. Patio does a classic burger-and-fries combo for about $14.95 that’s consistently good.
And on any given visit, you can get things like their famous Patio burger with all the fixings, a side of those straightforward but tasty fries, and a thick, creamy milkshake to wash it all down (they’ll also do takeout if you prefer).
Burger King
$ | (831) 633-5001 | WEBSITE
The Burger King on Castroville’s main drag is a reliable, family-friendly spot with a quiet, clean atmosphere and plenty of parking out front. The same steady service carries through to the food—the classic Whopper with its flame-grilled patty and fresh toppings, crispy chicken sandwiches that hit the spot, and satisfying fries that are always hot and salty. Always grab a fountain drink or a milky shake to wash it down. There are plenty of booths and tables inside, all kept tidy and comfortable.
Round Table Pizza
$ | (831) 633-5227 | WEBSITE
Meet your new go-to for a fun family night in Castroville. At this sports bar-style pizza joint, the personal pizzas—like the classic Combination or hearty Meatlovers—are made with dough that’s proofed fresh daily, topped generously, and then baked to a perfect crisp. Lucky for us, the rest of the menu lives up to the same cheesy, satisfying standard and never fails to please.
You’ll find addictive cheesy garlic bread with just the right amount of garlic butter, jalapeño poppers that are crispy outside and molten inside, and garlic twists so good you’ll want to order a second basket. This lively, family-friendly spot regularly fills up on weekends with local regulars here for game nights and casual celebrations, all served by the friendly, quick staff that makes you feel right at home.
El Sazon De La Tia
$$ | (831) 632-5142 | WEBSITE
El Sazon De La Tia sits in a relaxed corner of Castroville and is the spot for Mexican and seafood specialties that are fresh, flavorful, and just really damn good. The best move is coming here with people you like, and kicking off this casual lunch or dinner with the mixed fajitas (a name we’d get tattooed on our left rib). It’s served on a generous platter, and shows off the restaurant’s greatest hits—plump shrimp, tender beef and chicken, all sizzling with fresh ingredients.
The Camarones al la Diabla is another standout, with perfect flavor and just the right heat, paired with Spanish rice, crispy fries, and handmade tortillas. The modern interior, large bar, and TV playing soccer matches make it a welcoming place to settle in, and the phenomenal service makes you feel right at home.
With affordable prices, a kid-friendly vibe, and dishes like the weekend Menudo Rojo or tasty Vegetarian burrito, this hidden gem continues to delight with its excellent food and relaxed atmosphere.