As the warm days of summer ease into the golden tones of early autumn, the coastal charm of Monterey takes on a new kind of magic. There’s a crispness in the air, the sun sets just a bit earlier, and the appetite leans toward something more comforting. At Tarpy’s, the arrival of fall means a subtle but satisfying shift—from chilled rosés and light fare to fireside flavors, slow-cooked classics, and warm, inviting cocktails.
Set in a historic stone house surrounded by native gardens, Tarpy’s is the ideal place to embrace the new season. Whether dining indoors near the hearth or settling into a cozy garden nook under soft lighting, guests are invited to linger over rich entrées, bold drinks, and rustic hospitality that feels like autumn itself.
Unlike other regions where the change is abrupt, Monterey’s fall season is marked by subtle transitions: misty mornings, golden afternoons, and sweater-worthy evenings. It’s a time when the coastline quiets down and locals reclaim their favorite spots—like the patios and tucked-away dining rooms at Tarpy’s.
This seasonal change is also reflected in our kitchen. As the weather cools, our dishes grow richer, our flavors deeper, and our menu begins to lean into the comfort of early fall.
As the sun dips earlier, the appetite shifts from light and refreshing to rich and robust. Tarpy’s appetizers reflect that change with bold flavors, warm textures, and craveable bites to start the evening.
Fall-Forward Starters
Sriracha Glazed Ribs: Finished with a honey-sriracha glaze and spicy peanuts, these ribs are smoky, sweet, and satisfying—perfect for kicking off a cool-weather meal.
Dungeness & Blue Crab Cakes: Seared and served with roasted pepper coriander cream, these bring coastal elegance to any fall dinner.
Bruschetta: Featuring herbed goat cheese, roasted garlic, and blistered tomatoes, this dish offers comfort in every bite.
Fried Artichoke Hearts: Crispy, golden, and served with our signature Srirachanaise and ranch for a tangy contrast.
When fall arrives, so do Tarpy’s most beloved entrées. These are the dishes that stick with you: slow-braised meats, wood-fired seafood, and rich sauces that warm from the inside out.
Comfort Food with a Gourmet Twist
Braised Short Rib: Fall-apart tender and layered with red wine demi-glace, garlic mashed potatoes, green peas, and caramelized Cipollini onions—this is a quintessential fall plate.
Classic Meatloaf: Elevated with Marsala-mushroom sauce, mashed potatoes, and green beans, this dish is nostalgia made elegant.
Filet Mignon (USDA Prime): A rich and refined option, served with Brussels sprouts, mushrooms, and a deeply savory beef jus.
Angus Sirloin Chateau: With roasted garlic mash, gorgonzola spinach, and black pepper thyme demi-glaze, it’s bold, hearty, and perfect for cooler evenings.
Seasonal Seafood & Lighter Fall Favorites
Alaskan Halibut: Pan-seared and finished with citrus-brown butter, served with roasted garlic mashed potatoes and baby kale—perfect for those seeking a lighter yet comforting option.
Wood-Fired Salmon: With buttery beurre blanc, rice pilaf, and vibrant vegetables, this dish brings balance to any autumn table.
Cajun-Seasoned Petrale Sole: Brightened with pineapple salsa and finished with lime-coconut cream over curry rice—it’s a final nod to summer with fall comfort built in.
No autumn meal is complete without a few warm, comforting sides.
Gruyère Scalloped Potatoes: Rich, creamy, and perfectly baked—ideal with steak or chicken.
Gorgonzola Spinach: Bold and cheesy with a hint of sharpness, it’s a fall favorite.
Brussels Sprouts: Roasted to perfection, these bring a smoky, nutty element to the plate.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A staple that pairs effortlessly with our braised and grilled entrées.
The shift in season also brings a change in the glass. While there’s still time to enjoy a crisp spritz or chilled rosé, fall calls for deeper flavors, warming spirits, and classic cocktails with a twist.
Fireside Favorites
Barrel-Aged Manhattan: With Buffalo Trace, Antica Vermouth, and orange bitters, this is the ultimate cold-weather sipper.
Barrel-Aged Old Fashioned: Featuring Michter’s, vanilla, honey, and nutmeg syrup, this cocktail is smooth, spiced, and perfect for fireside dining.
Strawberry Bourbon Fling: Still fruity, but grounded in bourbon and elderflower—great for those cool-but-not-cold Monterey nights.
Wines to Match the Moment
Great wine makes a great evening even better—especially when paired with the golden glow of a Monterey sunset. Our curated selection includes varietals that shine alongside garden-fresh dishes and flame-grilled favorites.
Rosé from Alexander Valley Vineyards: Bright and dry with a refreshing finish, this is the ideal sip for long summer evenings outdoors.
Chardonnay from McIntyre: Smooth and lightly buttery, this local favorite pairs beautifully with halibut, salmon, or our citrus-forward chicken dishes.
Pinot Noir from Loring Wine Co.: Elegant and balanced, this versatile red complements grilled steaks, pork chops, and hearty vegetarian entrées with ease.
Whether raising a glass to celebrate or simply to unwind, these wines help elevate every bite—and every moment—on the patio.
Whether it’s a casual dinner, a seasonal celebration, or a cozy night out, Tarpy’s invites you to enjoy fall the way it was meant to be: with full plates, warm drinks, and rustic charm in every detail.
From our historic stone patios to the glow of the dining room, every corner of Tarpy’s is ready for the new season. As the leaves begin to turn and the air cools, we’re embracing autumn with open arms—and open doors.
Experience the best of fall in Monterey. Join us at Tarpy’s and celebrate the season with flavors that feel like home.
Restaurant Name: Tarpy’s
Location: Monterey, CA
Phone number: 831.647.1444
There’s something special about fall on the Central Coast. The air turns crisp, the sunlight…
As the pace of summer slows and the cool, coastal air of fall settles in,…
Late August in Monterey brings a unique kind of magic. The sun still hangs high,…
There’s something undeniably special about dining outdoors in Monterey during August. The breeze is warm…
August in Monterey is the sweet spot of summer. The days are long, the weather…
Summer evenings in Monterey are meant for slowing down, savoring good food, and sharing moments…