When it comes to laid-back, waterfront dining in Miami, Monty’s Coconut Grove stands out as a local favorite. With its tropical vibes, stunning views, and casual yet vibrant atmosphere, Monty’s offers a relaxed dining experience that captures the essence of Miami’s outdoor lifestyle. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Monty’s Coconut Grove is the perfect spot to enjoy fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and unforgettable views in one of Miami’s most picturesque neighborhoods.
This review will take a detailed look at what makes Monty’s Coconut Grove a go-to destination for casual dining, from its charming ambiance to the food, drinks, service, and overall experience. Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind with friends, celebrate a special occasion, or enjoy a scenic meal by the water, Monty’s has something for everyone.
Ambiance and Design: Casual, Relaxed, and Waterfront
Monty’s Coconut Grove captures the spirit of Miami’s relaxed coastal lifestyle. Situated right on the water, with views of the bay and yachts gently bobbing along the dock, the restaurant offers a relaxed, open-air environment that invites guests to kick back and enjoy the beautiful Miami weather. The ambiance is casual, fun, and unpretentious, making it an ideal destination for both tourists and locals looking to enjoy great food without any formality.
The open-air seating area, complete with picnic tables, umbrellas, and breezy decor, creates a beachy, laid-back vibe that’s perfect for a weekend brunch or an afternoon drink. The spacious outdoor patio offers plenty of seating with panoramic views of the water, making it an excellent spot for people-watching, boat spotting, or just soaking in the Miami sunshine. Whether you’re sitting on the covered patio or by the bar, the location and atmosphere at Monty’s is what really sets it apart from other local restaurants.
Inside the restaurant, you’ll find an inviting nautical theme with wood finishes, ceiling fans, and an overall cozy feel. The tropical touches—think palm trees, vibrant colors, and nautical decor—add to the fun, vacation-like atmosphere. This is the type of place where you can wear flip-flops and shorts and still feel like you’re enjoying a special meal.
The best part of Monty’s ambiance is its prime location in Coconut Grove, one of Miami’s most charming neighborhoods. Known for its tree-lined streets, artistic community, and relaxed vibe, Coconut Grove provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely dining experience by the water.
Cuisine: Fresh Seafood with a Miami Twist
At Monty’s Coconut Grove, the focus is on fresh, locally sourced seafood and traditional American fare with a tropical twist. The restaurant’s menu is designed to be simple, satisfying, and reflective of the flavors of Miami and the surrounding coastal area. Whether you’re in the mood for a light bite, a hearty meal, or something to share with friends, Monty’s has a variety of options that will surely hit the spot.
Starters and Appetizers:
The appetizer selection at Monty’s Coconut Grove offers a range of dishes that highlight the fresh seafood offerings of the region. A standout is the Crab Cakes, which are light and flavorful, with a crispy exterior and tender, juicy crab meat inside. Paired with a tangy remoulade sauce, these crab cakes are a perfect introduction to the restaurant’s seafood offerings.
For those looking for something a bit lighter, the Tuna Tartar is a great choice. Fresh, finely diced tuna is served with avocado, cilantro, and a soy-based dressing, delivering a refreshing burst of flavor that’s perfect for a warm Miami day. Another popular appetizer is the Coconut Shrimp, which features crispy shrimp coated in a coconut batter and served with a sweet chili dipping sauce—a classic tropical twist on a seafood favorite.
Main Courses and Seafood Dishes:
The highlight of Monty’s menu is undoubtedly its seafood selection. The Fish Tacos, made with lightly battered fish and topped with a tangy slaw, offer a satisfying, flavorful bite that is a perfect match for the restaurant’s tropical setting. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, the Grilled Mahi Mahi is a favorite. Served with a side of rice and vegetables, the Mahi Mahi is perfectly cooked with a delicate flavor that doesn’t overwhelm.
Another fan favorite is the Blackened Snapper, which is seasoned with a blend of spices and served with a zesty mango salsa that adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spice. For those seeking something a little different, the Seafood Paella is a flavorful and filling choice, packed with shrimp, mussels, clams, and other shellfish, all simmered in a rich saffron-infused broth.
While Monty’s is primarily known for its seafood, the restaurant also offers a variety of other options, including Burgers, Salads, and Sandwiches. The Monty’s Burger is a crowd-pleaser, made with a juicy beef patty and topped with fresh lettuce, tomato, and the restaurant’s signature sauce. If you’re craving something a little lighter, the Coconut Grove Salad—a refreshing mix of greens, fruit, and grilled chicken—is a great option.
Sides and Accompaniments:
To complement the main dishes, Monty’s offers a selection of sides, including French Fries, Rice Pilaf, and Grilled Vegetables. The Mac and Cheese is another popular choice, offering a creamy, cheesy texture that pairs well with any of the seafood dishes.
Drinks: Tropical Cocktails and Classic Refreshments
No meal at Monty’s Coconut Grove is complete without a tropical drink to enjoy while taking in the views. The restaurant boasts a well-rounded cocktail menu with an emphasis on refreshing, tropical flavors. The Mojito is a popular choice, made with fresh mint, lime, and rum—perfect for sipping by the water on a warm Miami day. For something a bit more indulgent, the Pina Colada delivers a rich, coconut-infused flavor that perfectly complements the seafood-centric menu.
If you’re in the mood for something with a bit more kick, the Coconut Grove Margarita, made with tequila, lime juice, and a hint of orange liqueur, is a great choice. The drink menu also features a variety of Craft Beers, Wines, and Frozen Cocktails, so there’s something for everyone.
For those who prefer a non-alcoholic option, Monty’s offers a variety of Fresh Juices and Iced Teas, which are just as refreshing as the cocktails and perfect for staying hydrated while enjoying the Miami sun.
Service: Friendly and Attentive
One of the standout features of Monty’s Coconut Grove is the service. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive without being overbearing. From the moment you walk in, the hosts greet you with a warm welcome and make sure you’re seated promptly, whether you’re dining inside or enjoying the outdoor patio.
The servers at Monty’s are quick to offer recommendations based on your preferences and are knowledgeable about the menu and daily specials. The pacing of the meal is ideal—not rushed, allowing you to enjoy your food and drinks while soaking in the views. The staff also keeps an eye on your drinks, ensuring you never have to wait long for a refill, which adds to the overall enjoyable experience.
Pricing and Accessibility: Affordable with a View
For a waterfront dining experience in Miami, Monty’s offers great value. The pricing is reasonable considering the location, the quality of the food, and the atmosphere. Starters typically range from $8 to $15, while most entrees fall between $15 and $30. The seafood dishes, which are the restaurant’s highlights, are fairly priced for their freshness and portion size.
The drink prices are also reasonable, with cocktails generally ranging from $10 to $15, and a glass of wine or beer costing around $7 to $12. For a casual meal with a view, Monty’s offers one of the best dining experiences in Coconut Grove without breaking the bank.
Why Monty’s Coconut Grove Stands Out
Monty’s Coconut Grove is the epitome of a casual, waterfront dining experience in Miami. The restaurant’s laid-back atmosphere, delicious seafood offerings, and tropical cocktails make it a go-to spot for both locals and tourists looking to relax and enjoy good food by the water. The location alone makes Monty’s a standout, but the friendly service, fresh dishes, and welcoming vibe ensure that it’s a place you’ll want to return to again and again.
Final Verdict and Rating
Monty’s Coconut Grove offers a fantastic dining experience that combines great seafood, tropical drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere with one of the best views in Miami. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, a sunset dinner, or a night out with friends, Monty’s provides a refreshing, enjoyable spot to eat, drink, and unwind.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
With its unbeatable location, friendly service, and consistently delicious food, Monty’s Coconut Grove is a Miami gem. It’s the perfect place to experience the best of casual waterfront dining in the Magic City. While the ambiance and food are top-notch, there may be occasional busier times that can affect the pacing of service. Nonetheless, Monty’s is an excellent choice for a relaxed dining experience with a view.