Last Taste of Summer: Seasonal Favorites to Savor Before Fall

Late August in Monterey brings a unique kind of magic. The sun still hangs high, the evenings remain warm, and there’s a lingering energy in the air—the kind that says there’s still time to indulge, connect, and enjoy all that summer has to offer.

At Tarpy’s, this season is celebrated with a menu that captures the best of summer’s bounty. From wood-fired seafood to chilled cocktails and garden-fresh produce, every dish and drink is crafted to help guests savor these final sun-soaked weeks. Whether it’s a spontaneous dinner or a long-planned gathering, this is the time to lean in and enjoy the last taste of summer.

Why Late Summer Is the Perfect Time to Dine at Tarpy’s

Monterey’s mild coastal climate keeps the summer spirit alive well into September, but August is when it all culminates. With local produce at its peak and visitor energy high, Tarpy’s offers a menu and setting designed to help guests slow down, indulge, and celebrate the season before the pace of fall returns.

Our garden patios are in full bloom, the kitchen is turning out summer’s most vibrant dishes, and the bar is shaking up seasonal cocktails that taste like golden hour.

Appetizers That Set the Stage

Every great summer meal starts with something fresh, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. Our appetizers are designed to ease into the evening and highlight seasonal ingredients.

Summer Starters to Try Now

1. Caprese: Juicy heirloom tomatoes, blood orange slices, fresh mozzarella, and crispy quinoa drizzled with balsamic—this dish is summer on a plate.
2. Spicy Tuna Tacos: Bright, zesty, and cool, these tacos are made with scallions, sesame seeds, ponzu aioli, and a little heat from wasabi tobiko.
3. Crispy Calamari: A crowd-pleaser served with lime-Thai dipping sauce and our signature “Srirachanaise.”
4. Fried Artichoke Hearts: Local, crisp, and vegetarian-friendly—great for warm evenings and chilled drinks.

Seasonal Entrées That Shine

August is the perfect time to revisit favorites or try something new before menus start shifting toward fall. Tarpy’s large plates offer a mix of light, bright dishes and hearty grilled classics.

Seafood Standouts

1. Wood-Fired Salmon: Served with rice pilaf, snap peas, carrots, broccoli, blistered tomatoes, and beurre blanc—it’s balanced, beautiful, and full of summer flavor.
2. Alaskan Halibut: Pan-seared and finished with citrus-brown butter, this dish pairs perfectly with our roasted garlic mashed potatoes and baby kale.
3. Head-on Spot Prawns: Sautéed in garlic butter and served with truffle mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus—a bold choice that always impresses.

Grilled Favorites

1. Angus Sirloin Chateau: USDA Prime, served with gorgonzola spinach and garlic mashed potatoes, finished with a thyme-black pepper demi-glaze.
2. Filet Mignon: Elegant and satisfying with Brussels sprouts, mushrooms, and a rich beef jus.
3. Center Cut Bone-In Pork Chop: A savory standout with herbed polenta, bacon lardons, and a sweet apple compote.

Something for Everyone

1. Mushroom Bolognese: Rich with wild mushrooms, asiago, and orecchiette pasta—vegetarian and with a vegan option available.
2. Cajun-Seasoned Petrale Sole: With pineapple salsa, curry rice, and lime-coconut cream, this dish brings late-summer energy and tropical flavor.

Salads That Feel Like Summer

Looking for something a little lighter? Our salads feature seasonal produce and house-made dressings that bring out the best in each ingredient.

1. Fuji Apple Salad: Local greens, candied pecans, gorgonzola cheese, and white balsamic vinaigrette.
2. Heirloom Beet & Butter Lettuce Salad: A colorful mix of roasted beets, goat cheese, citrus segments, and raspberry-citrus vinaigrette.
3. Tarpy’s Cobb: Grilled chicken, bacon, avocado, egg, tomato, and creamy gorgonzola dressing—hearty yet refreshing.

Enhance any salad with grilled prawns, salmon, avocado, chicken, or even a crab cake.

Raise a Glass to the Season

The bar at Tarpy’s is ready to help you toast to the end of summer. From garden-inspired cocktails to crisp local wines and craft beers, our drink menu has something for every palate.

Seasonal Cocktails Worth Sipping

1. Hibiscus Paloma: Refreshing with Lalo Tequila, hibiscus syrup, lime, and grapefruit soda.
2. The Ruby: Bright and citrus-forward with vodka, Aperol, St. Germain, grapefruit, and lemon.
3. Strawberry Bourbon Fling: A late-summer favorite with bourbon, elderflower, and housemade strawberry syrup.
4. Ocean Strike: Blue, botanical, and bold—with a portion of proceeds going to Monterey Bay charities.

Wines to Match the Mood

1. Rosé from Alexander Valley Vineyards: Fruity and dry, perfect for outdoor dining.
2. Chardonnay from McIntyre: Buttery, balanced, and excellent with seafood or chicken.
3. Pinot Noir from Loring Wine Co.: A smooth red to complement steak, pork, or rich vegetarian dishes.

Non-Alcoholic Refreshers

1. Lemonberry: Strawberry purée, Sprite, and sweet & sour—fun and refreshing.
2. Tropical Punch: A sweet blend of guava, mango, and pineapple juices.
3. Illy Cold Brew or Sport Tea: For those who prefer something with a little kick or caffeine.

Make the Most of It While It Lasts

There’s still time for long dinners under the trees, celebratory evenings with friends, and spontaneous nights that start with “let’s just stop by Tarpy’s.” But as August rolls on, those moments become more precious.

Whether it’s a table for two, a casual happy hour, or a private group dinner, the final weeks of summer are an invitation to lean in and enjoy it all—good food, cold drinks, and a setting that only Monterey can offer.

Say goodbye to summer the best way possible—with a seasonal dinner at Tarpy’s. Reserve your table today before fall arrives.

Restaurant Name: Tarpy’s

Location: Monterey, CA

Phone number: 831.647.1444