Founded in 1770 as one of four Spanish military forts or presidios in California, Monterey’s protected harbor attracted both Spanish explorers and settlers. It remained the capital of Spanish California until 1822 when Mexico claimed control. Sardines spawned a booming industry in the 1870s, motivating the city fathers to construct Fisherman’s Wharf, and giving rise to Cannery Row. Commercial fishing starting declining in the 1950s, and tourism took over as Monterey’s key industry. Today, the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, a public aquarium with award-winning exhibits, and a world-renowned center for marine science and sustainable seafood practices, is a top waterfront attraction. Fresh seafood remains a culinary tradition in Monterey with dockside fish markets and multiple restaurants. Sardines are rare, but Monterey’s fish restaurants serve calamari, popcorn shrimp, salmon, Dungeness crab, Pacific halibut, and more, along with stunning harbor views. Artichokes, lettuces, strawberries, and broccoli grown in the nearby Salinas Valley, “the Salad Bowl of the World,” also make their way to Monterey’s tables and the rest of California.

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Featured Cook market19147 Cooking Level: Intermediate Home Town: Monterey, California, USA
About me: I have a son who is 18 months and I love to cook! I really am starting to cook things by scratch for my son and boyfriend. My Profile \| Cooks I Like \| Reviews \| Photos Recipes \| Menus \| Blog Create your own Cook's Profile \| MORE Cooks »

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Luluje

Cooking Level: Intermediate

Home Town: Monterey, California, USA

Living In: San Rafael, California, USA

About me: I am a native Californian and have also lived abroad. I totally enjoy trying new foods, experimenting with new recipes (with the exception of the buttermilk/pumpkin bundt cake I …
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