Summer Evenings Done Right: Alfresco Dining at Tarpy’s Garden Patios

Summer on the Central Coast invites long, warm evenings—and there’s no better way to spend them than outdoors with great food and good company. At Tarpy’s in Monterey, the garden patios are more than just seating—they’re a summer experience. Surrounded by native greenery, historic stonework, and the scent of grilled perfection, dining here blends ambiance and flavor in a way that feels unmistakably like summer in California.

Here’s what makes Tarpy’s the go-to destination for alfresco evenings this season.

Soak in Summer on Monterey’s Most Inviting Patios

Tarpy’s outdoor spaces aren’t an afterthought—they’re a highlight. The rustic stone architecture, tucked-away dining nooks, and blooming landscapes offer a peaceful retreat just off Highway 68. Whether it’s a casual weekday dinner or a celebratory night out, our patios set the scene for the season. Warm Monterey evenings pair perfectly with candlelight and fresh ocean air.

Want to host a private gathering or summer celebration? Our event spaces include garden patios ideal for birthdays, rehearsal dinners, or business outings—with plenty of room to relax, toast, and dine.

What to Eat: Seasonal Starters and Summer-Friendly Favorites

When it comes to flavor, summer calls for vibrant ingredients, bold pairings, and dishes that shine under golden light. Start things off with appetizers that are bright, shareable, and built for conversation.

Patio-Perfect Starters

1. Caprese: Heirloom tomatoes, blood orange slices, and creamy mozzarella topped with basil and crispy quinoa—this one was made for July.
2. Castroville Artichoke: Coal-roasted and served with lemon-basil pesto, this local favorite is vegetarian, gluten-free, and quintessentially coastal.
3. Spicy Tuna Tacos: A refreshing take on poke, these tacos feature ponzu aioli, scallions, sesame seeds, and just the right hint of wasabi tobiko.
4. Crispy Calamari: Paired with a zesty lime-Thai dipping sauce and “Srirachanaise,” this dish packs crunch and heat, ideal for warmer weather.

Move into Main Course Magic

Once the sun starts to dip, it’s time to explore the heart of Tarpy’s menu—handcrafted entrées made to satisfy summer appetites. Our chefs spotlight bold proteins, fresh vegetables, and bright sauces that feel indulgent but never too heavy.

Seafood That Celebrates the Coast

1. Wood-Fired Salmon: Served with rice pilaf, snap peas, broccoli, and beurre blanc, this dish hits all the right notes: smoky, buttery, and just light enough.
2. Head-On Spot Prawns: Garlic butter sautéed with truffle mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus make this a top pick for a refined summer dinner.
3. Alaskan Halibut: A crisp sear, citrus-brown butter, and baby kale round out this seasonal catch.

Hearty, Flame-Grilled Favorites

1. Grilled USDA Prime New York Steak with Truffle Butter: At 12 ounces, this is a true steak lover’s dream—balanced with roasted marble potatoes and broccolini.
2. Classic Meatloaf: Comfort food doesn’t take a vacation—ours is dressed up with Marsala-mushroom sauce and garlic mashed potatoes.
3. Chili-Crusted Chicken: Gruyère scalloped potatoes, green beans, and a smoky apricot BBQ glaze give this dish a unique summer twist.

Vegetarian Options That Don’t Skip Flavor

1. Mushroom Bolognese: Wild mushrooms, tomato marinara, and asiago over orecchiette pasta—hearty and herbaceous, with a vegan option available.
2. Heirloom Beet & Butter Lettuce Salad: Goat cheese, candied pecans, and citrus vinaigrette make this a perfect entrée for warm nights.

Pair It Right: Wines, Cocktails, and Cool Refreshers

What’s a summer dinner without the perfect pour? Our curated beverage menu balances local wines, playful cocktails, and refreshing non-alcoholic sips to match the moment.

Seasonal Cocktails Built for Golden Hour

1. Blackberry Lemonade: Bourbon, blackberry syrup, and homemade lemonade—this is sweet, smoky, and sunshine-ready.
2. Strawberry Bourbon Fling: With Elijah Craig bourbon and elderflower, this fruity, floral sip is made for toasting the sunset.
3. Tarpy’s Mule: A house favorite with Buffalo Trace, mint-cinnamon syrup, ginger beer, and lime—crisp, spicy, and patio-perfect.

Wines by the Glass

1. Sauvignon Blanc from Bonterra Estate is ideal with seafood and salads.
2. Pinot Noir from Loring Wine Co. brings balance to steak, ribs, or rich vegetarian plates.
3. Rosé from Alexander Valley Vineyards is summer in a glass—refreshing and food-friendly.

Something Without the Buzz

1. Guava Tea and Lemonberry are playful, fruity sips made for non-drinkers or those looking to cool down without alcohol.
2. Sport Tea and Illy’s Cold Brew keep things crisp and caffeinated.

Share the Experience: Gatherings, Groups, and Private Events

Summer is the season of get-togethers—and Tarpy’s is the place to host them. Our private patios and customizable menus are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, retirement parties, and more. From laid-back happy hours to elegant garden dinners, we help create moments worth remembering.

Looking to make a reservation for a group or book a private space? Our team is ready to help plan every detail, from cocktail pairings to custom courses.

End the Evening Right

Whether the evening calls for a second glass of wine or one last bite of our Dungeness & Blue Crab Cakes, there’s no rush at Tarpy’s. Our goal is to help every guest slow down and savor the moment—because summer nights like these deserve to be enjoyed.

From the first toast to the final bite, Tarpy’s offers the ideal mix of rustic charm, fine dining, and laid-back elegance.

Make the most of your Monterey summer. Reserve your patio table at Tarpy’s today.

Restaurant Name: Tarpy’s

Location: Monterey, CA

Phone number: 831.647.1444