Random questions for upcoming trip

Question

We have a 4 night stay coming up and I'm putting together a list of questions. I'm just at 2 questions now but I bet I'll have more as the trip nears.

1. When we are at the aquarium, if we wanted to pop out for lunch nearby vs eating in house, any recommendations? I know it's in a really touristy area and would love to avoid your typical tourist trap. We want to stay on foot but would love something that's not overpriced and average. I'm not concerned with the price part so long as I get something good for the money. Also open to off the beaten path holes in the wall that we could walk to. Is there anything like that that you would recommend?

2. Our hotel doesn't have laundry onsite (just laundry service- Hyatt Regency; it has the best room layout option for our crew but I know it isn't the best location...had to make trade offs :)). Are there any same day drop off laundry services around? We usually pack pretty light for our trips so mid-trip laundry can be helpful. Odds are we will just make due with our packing or handwash things but figured it could be helpful to know of a recommended wash and fold type service in the area.

Thank you!

Answer

Visiting Monterey for a few nights is always a treat, and planning around the Aquarium area can be fun if you want to maximize your experience while avoiding overly touristy traps.

1. For lunch near the Monterey Bay Aquarium:

First Awning Café and Outdoor Spots: There are some smaller cafés and bistros within walking distance that cater to locals and aren’t overly touristy. Look for places on Cannery Row side streets or along Pacific Street for fresh, casual meals.
Off the Beaten Path Options: A short walk inland from Cannery Row can lead you to neighborhood cafés and sandwich shops. For example, some Mediterranean, Mexican, or café-style spots are often praised by locals for quality and reasonable portions.
Seafood Focused Restaurants: While Cannery Row has many seafood restaurants, try to look for those with primarily local clientele. Small counter-service seafood spots tend to be more authentic and less overpriced than the big tourist draws.

Tip: If you want to keep it casual and flexible, a local bakery or café with outdoor seating can be a nice option for a quick, enjoyable lunch without stepping into a tourist trap.

2. Laundry services near Hyatt Regency Monterey:

Same-Day Drop-Off Services: There are a few local laundry and dry-cleaning services in Monterey that offer wash and fold options. Many of these will provide same-day turnaround if you drop off items in the morning. Check for “Monterey Laundry & Dry Clean” or similar neighborhood services within a few blocks of downtown or near the hotel.
Hotel Laundry Service: While more expensive, the Hyatt Regency does provide laundry service, and sometimes same-day service is possible if you drop off items early.
Hand Wash or Quick DIY: For light packing, consider handwashing a few essentials in the hotel sink. It can be the simplest solution for a short stay without relying on external services.

Overall, Monterey’s walkable downtown and Cannery Row area make it possible to find quality food options and convenient services without needing to rent a car. Planning your lunch spot just a few blocks off the main tourist corridor will often lead to a more authentic and satisfying experience, and a quick stop at a local laundry service can keep your packing light and stress-free.