The Art of Alfresco: Celebrate Summer’s Peak on the Patios at Tarpy’s

There’s something undeniably special about dining outdoors in Monterey during August. The breeze is warm but refreshing, the skies stay golden into the evening, and the best meals are the ones enjoyed in good company under the open sky. At Tarpy’s, summer patio dining isn’t just a seasonal perk—it’s part of the experience.

Surrounded by lush gardens, historic stonework, and the soft hum of summer evenings, our patios offer the perfect escape. Whether you’re toasting a milestone, catching up with friends, or simply winding down after a day on the coast, this is the time and place to enjoy the best of late summer.

Why August Is Patio Season in Monterey

While much of the country starts winding down summer, August is Monterey’s time to shine. The weather is reliably mild, the sunsets are long and golden, and locals and visitors alike are drawn to the coast for one last seasonal celebration.

At Tarpy’s, every table is set to capture that late-summer magic. With private garden nooks, shaded patios, and plenty of room for groups or couples, our outdoor spaces invite guests to linger, sip, and savor.

Start with Something Shareable

Alfresco dining is about connection—small plates, shared bites, and food that invites conversation. Our appetizer menu offers a variety of crowd-pleasing starters designed for warm evenings and lively tables.

Must-Try Starters for Patio Dining

1. Caprese: Fresh heirloom tomatoes, blood orange, mozzarella, and crispy quinoa come together in a dish that’s as colorful as it is refreshing.
2. Dungeness & Blue Crab Cakes: Light and flavorful, these two 2oz crab cakes are served with a roasted pepper coriander cream that complements summer’s coastal mood.
3. Fried Artichoke Hearts: Crispy and golden, served with Srirachanaise and ranch for dipping—easy to share, hard to resist.
4. Spicy Tuna Tacos: Bold and bright with scallions, ponzu aioli, and wasabi tobiko, these tacos add a little kick to your evening.

Round out the spread with a Giant Bavarian Pretzel or Bruschetta for something casual, fun, and perfectly snackable.

Entrées That Capture the Season

August meals deserve dishes that feel light yet satisfying, vibrant yet comforting. Tarpy’s entrées reflect both the bounty of summer and the hearty, rustic flavors that define our kitchen year-round.

Seafood & Coastal Favorites

1. Wood-Fired Salmon: A top pick for summer dining—paired with rice pilaf, snap peas, carrots, broccoli, blistered tomatoes, and a rich beurre blanc.
2. Alaskan Halibut: Pan-seared and served with citrus-brown butter, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, and baby kale—a refined, seasonal standout.
3. Cajun-Seasoned Petrale Sole: Tropical pineapple salsa, curry rice, and lime-coconut cream bring bold flavor and a vacation vibe.

Flame-Grilled Meats for Alfresco Evenings

1. Grilled USDA Prime New York Steak with Truffle Butter: A 12oz cut, paired with roasted marble potatoes and fire-grilled broccolini—rich, satisfying, and patio-perfect.
2. Rib Eye (USDA Prime): At 14oz, it’s hearty without being heavy—finished with black pepper demi-glaze and fresh parsley.
3. Center Cut Bone-In Pork Chop: With herbed polenta, Brussels sprouts, and apple compote, it’s a savory-sweet dish made for summer evenings.

Vegetarian Options That Deliver

1. Mushroom Bolognese: A meatless favorite featuring wild mushrooms, orecchiette pasta, and asiago cheese—with a vegan option available.
2. Heirloom Beet & Butter Lettuce Salad: Roasted beets, goat cheese, citrus, and pecans make this both refreshing and indulgent.

Sip Something Seasonal

No patio dinner is complete without a glass—or two—of something crisp, fruity, or bold. Tarpy’s drink menu offers everything from summer-perfect cocktails to curated wines and local beers.

Summer Cocktails Made for the Garden

1. Hibiscus Paloma: Light, floral, and citrusy with Lalo Tequila, hibiscus syrup, lime, and grapefruit soda.
2. Strawberry Bourbon Fling: With Elijah Craig bourbon, elderflower, lemon, and strawberry syrup, this cocktail is summer in a glass.
3. Tarpy’s Mule: Buffalo Trace, mint-cinnamon syrup, ginger beer, and lime—classic with a twist.
4. Ocean Strike: A vibrant blue gin cocktail made with spirulina, Italicus, lemon, and rosemary—plus $1 from each drink supports local charities.

Wines by the Glass

1. Rosé from Alexander Valley Vineyards: Bright and dry with a refreshing finish, this is the ideal sip for long summer evenings outdoors.
2. Chardonnay from McIntyre: Smooth and lightly buttery, this local favorite pairs beautifully with halibut, salmon, or our citrus-forward chicken dishes.
3. Pinot Noir from Loring Wine Co.: Elegant and balanced, this versatile red complements grilled steaks, pork chops, and hearty vegetarian entrées with ease.

Non-Alcoholic Favorites

1. Guava Tea or Teaberry: Sweet, fruity, and ideal for warm evenings.
2. Tropical Punch and Lemonberry: Flavorful, refreshing options for all ages.

Plan an Occasion—or Just a Great Evening

The best part of August patio dining at Tarpy’s? You don’t need a special reason to celebrate. But if you do have a reason, we’re ready for it.

1. Date nights that feel elevated but relaxed
2. Birthday dinners or anniversary celebrations in private patio spaces
3. Group dinners or farewell gatherings before the fall season picks up
4. Happy hours with colleagues or friends, complete with shareable plates and seasonal cocktails

Let our team help plan a summer evening you won’t forget—whether it’s for two or twenty.

Make the most of August while it lasts. Reserve your patio table at Tarpy’s today and experience Monterey’s most inviting summer setting.

Restaurant Name: Tarpy’s

Location: Monterey, CA

Phone number: 831.647.1444