What are the best shareable dishes at Tarpy's?
Great starters for the table include crispy calamari, Dungeness & blue crab cakes, and fried artichoke hearts, followed by entrees like the USDA Prime rib eye, prawn pasta, and center-cut bone-in pork chop. See the full dinner menu.
Is Tarpy's good for group dinners in Monterey?
Yes — with shareable starters, a wide range of entrees, garden patios, and cozy historic interiors, Tarpy's is built for long, social meals. See private parties for larger groups.
What drinks are good for a shared meal at Tarpy's?
The Hibiscus Paloma and Strawberry Bourbon Fling keep the table lively, with an Alexander Valley rosé for lighter plates and a Loring Pinot Noir for heartier dishes.
As winter fades and the promise of spring begins to appear, many people feel the urge to reconnect. Early spring is often when calendars start filling again with dinners, catch-ups, and small celebrations. And few things bring people together quite like sharing a meal.
At Tarpy's, gathering around the table is part of the experience. From appetizers designed for sharing to hearty entrees that invite conversation between bites, the menu makes it easy to enjoy good food with great company.
The Joy of Shareable Starters
Great meals often begin with small plates that encourage everyone to reach across the table.
Crispy Calamari
Lightly fried and served with lime-Thai dipping sauce and Srirachanaise, this dish delivers texture and bold flavor.
Dungeness & Blue Crab Cakes
Two perfectly crisp crab cakes served with roasted pepper coriander cream make a sophisticated starter for any table.
Fried Artichoke Hearts
Crispy and savory, served with ranch and Srirachanaise, these are a go-to appetizer for guests who enjoy local ingredients.
Main Dishes Worth Talking About
Shared dining often leads to ordering a variety of entrees across the table. Rib Eye delivers bold steakhouse flavor with roasted marble potatoes and broccolini. Prawn Pasta features spinach fettuccini with lobster cream and asiago. Center Cut Bone-In Pork Chop balances savory and sweet with herbed polenta and apple compote.
Drinks That Encourage Conversation
Cocktails and wine often extend the meal and keep the table lively. The Hibiscus Paloma offers bright citrus and floral notes. The Strawberry Bourbon Fling combines bourbon, elderflower, and strawberry for a balanced cocktail. Wine drinkers often gravitate toward Rose from Alexander Valley Vineyards for lighter meals or Pinot Noir from Loring Wine Co. for heartier dishes.
The Setting Matters Too
Tarpy's offers a unique environment for shared dining. Garden patios provide fresh air and relaxed energy, while the historic interior spaces create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It's the type of restaurant where meals naturally stretch longer--and where gatherings often turn into memorable evenings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation at Tarpy's?
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. Book on OpenTable or call 831.647.1444.
What are Tarpy's hours?
Tarpy's is open daily from 11:30am: Monday through Thursday and Sunday until 8:00pm, and Friday and Saturday until 9:00pm.
Where is Tarpy's located?
Tarpy's is at 2999 Monterey-Salinas Highway, Monterey, CA 93940, just off Highway 68.
Bring everyone to the table. Reserve at Tarpy's today.