It’s not only a quaint 48 year old restaurant near Cannery Row, Monterey, the Sardine Factory has history we can relate to. In 1971, young actor Clint Eastwood directed his first film, Play Misty for Me in the restaurant’s bar and that’s the fateful night Clint acting as a DJ met Evelyn, the stalker. Who can forget that movie!

Clint Eastwood

Where Clint began his directing career

After a drink at the bar, my waiter, Sunjeev, suggested I try the famous abalone bisque.  Sunjeev is originally from Fiji and has worked at the restaurant 38 years, winning his share of employee awards. The bisque was served at the “Taste of America” for Ronald Reagan’s Inauguration and its rich chowder base is full of tender Baja abalone, bacon and a splash of Madeira wine.  One taste and its evident why the soup is fit for a President.  And a real show stopper was the fudgy chocolate dessert pops dramatically served over dry ice.

Abalone chowder

Abalone chowder

Monterey’s Cannery Row may have it’s share of tourists, and gems like the Sardine Factory are the backbone of the community. #Sardinefactory @Sardinefactory

A plate full of seafood

A plate full of seafood

Sardine factory

701 Wave St.

Monterey, Ca

www.SardineFactory.com