Best Japanese Restaurant in Town

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Crafted For That Special Feel

Welcome To Nami Restaurant

Located in the heart of downtown Monterey on iconic Alvarado Street—right across from the renowned Portola Hotel—our casual upscale Japanese fusion restaurant welcomes locals, families, and visitors from around the world. We serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, with fresh, creative morning and midday dishes that have quickly become local favorites. Whether you’re starting your day before a conference at the Monterey Conference Center or winding down after exploring the coast, we offer a warm, flavorful experience at any hour.

Ready To Reserve Your Table With Us?

Planning a visit? Secure your table in advance and enjoy a smooth, stress-free dining experience. Whether it’s a casual outing or a special occasion, booking ahead ensures your spot is ready when you arrive.

A Culinary Experience That Feels Effortlessly Elevated

Every plate arrives as a statement—thoughtfully composed, visually striking, and layered with bold, contemporary character. Rich textures, refined techniques, and unexpected pairings come together to create something that feels both indulgent and modern. It’s not just about eating—it’s about enjoying every detail, every bite, every moment.

Explore Our Menu

A Glimpse Into Our Creations

Explore a curated collection of beautifully presented dishes.

A Place For Everyone

Whether you're planning a relaxed outing or a lively get-together, this is a place where everyone feels comfortable. Enjoy open-air seating for a refreshing atmosphere, thoughtful options for younger guests, and a pet-friendly outdoor space so your four-legged companion can join too. Every detail is shaped to make your visit easy, flexible, and enjoyable for all.

Visit Us Today

Stop by and enjoy a seamless dining experience any day of the week for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner! • Sunday – Thursday: 8:30 AM – 8 PM • Friday – Saturday: 8:30 AM – 9 PM Join us for a comfortable setting, consistent hours, and a welcoming atmosphere whenever it fits your schedule.

This was our first time here. We were thrilled and will be back. They have a whole section of the menu dedicated to the previous owner which is so sweet. We went with the recommended tuna sashimi, tikka masala sea bass, crab fried rice, and finished with the special chocolate torta for dessert. All were fantastic. I asked for a wine pairing and they didn't disappoint when Tino brought me a pinot noir. Pedro was friendly, efficient and overall delightful! He was entertaining and enthusiastic. His love for making his patrons happy really showed through. We could see the owner walking about and making sure everything was smooth. Overall a delightful dinning experience.

Michelle D.

Beautiful restaurant, amazing service, delicious cocktails and dessert. Cannot wait to go back and try their dinner menu.

Cat Y.

Nami is a hidden gem! Amazing food, beautiful presentation, and live entertainment that makes the whole experience unforgettable. The atmosphere is lively and fun, and the service is top-notch. Can’t wait to go back!

Jose C.

Nami carries the torch for finest dining in downtown Monterey. Their exquisite crabcakes are the best! Thank you host Nathan, outstanding staff and gifted chef for an enjoyable and memorable experience. They're open for breakfast, brunch, lunch & dinner. You will be glad you came!

Steve H.