Monte Carlo - Hollister, CA

When I heard that The Vault was closing and that the Monte Carlo was taking over I have to admit, I was a little skeptical. I was worried it was just going to be a nightclub and the beautiful building would be lost forever. I was happy to hear that they were keeping it a restaurant. So off I went, Melissa Good Taste to seek out the new eats in San Benito County.

Please excuse my terrible photos, I hate it when my camera produces spots! As you can see they removed the half walls from the middle of the restaurant. They did add a upper level around the perimeter which I thought was pretty cool.

The bread was great - warm and toasty. The butter soft, bonus points for that.

Off the menu I ordered the Salmon. It was cooked perfectly and a chimichurri sauce just took it to the next level. You are given a starch choice of baked potato, Mediterranean rice or Mashed. I chose mashed - a very hearty portion was served. Vegetables come with and they were cooked wonderfully. The Monte Carlo Chicken was the next entree and it tasted delicious as well. A perfectly moist chicken breast topped with a mushroom white wine sauce really worked.

There are a lot of things on their menu that I am very excited about! Appetizers of Black Mussels and Clams in white wine sauces. Calamari Strips always get me going as well! Entree wise there are plenty of perfectly priced things: Grilled Prawns, Madagascar Steak, Ribeye, Filet Mignon, a Mixed Grill Plate that includes: Pork loin, beef, lamb and chicken for only $14.95 and that includes a starch and vegetables - Holy Moly! A few pastas caught my as well, Seafood Pasta and Penne with Salmon.

There is nothing over $18.95 on the menu!

In fact there is an: Early Bird Special from 5pm -7pm that includes a green salad, choice of Monte Carlo Chicken, Grilled Salmon or Goulash, and then a dessert of Vanilla Bean Gelato for $11.95!!! That is an amazing deal.

All in all, I was pleasantly surprised with the Monte Carlo. The Vault is a good memory but I think the people at the Monte Carlo really want to please. The waitress was a doll, very sweet and willing to make it the best experience possible. I will return because of the quality of food and the price! You really cannot beat it. 1.75 thumbs up for a great evening in Downtown Hollister.