Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette
A refined coastal California dining spot known for wood-fired mains, fresh seafood, and a lively oyster bar in a spacious, airy setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A refined coastal California dining spot known for wood-fired mains, fresh seafood, and a lively oyster bar in a spacious, airy setting.
Make a Reservation
The restaurant gets packed quickly, so it's highly recommended to make a reservation in advance.
Happy Hour Deals
Visit during happy hour for special deals on drinks, including their delicious margaritas, and appetizers.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Seafood, American
Price
$$$
Phone
(831) 883-5535
Address
3295 Dunes Dr, Marina, CA 93933, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elegant Oysters with Creative Toppings
Savor a diverse selection of oysters, with popular choices like Gilroy Garlic and Kimchi Butter, prepared with elegant flair.
Coastal Ambiance with Fire Pits
Enjoy the inviting atmosphere with cozy outdoor fire pits and impeccable vistas of Marina State Beach, especially at sunset.
Wood-Fired Grill Creations
Indulge in unique dishes from the live-fire kitchen, including roasted chicken and cheesy almond cauliflower.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Make a Reservation
The restaurant gets packed quickly, so it's highly recommended to make a reservation in advance.
Happy Hour Deals
Visit during happy hour for special deals on drinks, including their delicious margaritas, and appetizers.
Explore Oyster Preparations
Don't miss trying different preparations of oysters, with Gilroy Garlic being a popular favorite.
Sunset Views
Consider visiting at sunset to enjoy the impeccable vistas of Marina State Beach and relax by the fire pits.
Tips
from all over the internet
Make a Reservation
The restaurant gets packed quickly, so it's highly recommended to make a reservation in advance.
Happy Hour Deals
Visit during happy hour for special deals on drinks, including their delicious margaritas, and appetizers.
Explore Oyster Preparations
Don't miss trying different preparations of oysters, with Gilroy Garlic being a popular favorite.
Sunset Views
Consider visiting at sunset to enjoy the impeccable vistas of Marina State Beach and relax by the fire pits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette offers a refined dining experience with a focus on wood-fired creations and fresh seafood. Many guests praise the inviting atmosphere, friendly service, and unique dishes. However, some find the prices high for the portion sizes, and a few have experienced issues with over-salting or undercooked food.
"What a phenomenal experience salt wood was. Andrew our server was absolutely top notch. We came here off a past employee and colleagues recommendation; Derek did not steer us wrong and salt wood definitely did not disappoint, oysters were amazing, the duck was to die for, and the chicken was incredible. I would have worked my way through the whole menu if we were in town longer. Incredible staff , awesome ambiance, the guys shucking oysters and cooking over an open flame right in front of you was a seriously next level connoisseur experience. 10/10 recommend. Go out of your way if you’re not in the immediate area and definitely make a reservation beforehand, this place was packed."
Nathaniel Larson
"I had the clam chowder, it had bacon in it, absolutely delicious. I’ll be back for that! I only gave a 4/5 because the oysters were so small, I really expected them to be at least bigger than mussels. I could have driven down to Safeway and had bigger. The place is lovely and chill. The drinks and service were another reason to check this place out."
Veronica Martinez
"Went with a group of friends for a special occasion. I had never heard of the place, honestly was reluctant at first but the menu was diverse, everything was real yummy, staff was friendly and would come by to see if we needed anything. 100% if you're looking for a nice restaurant you should try this place!"
Nick Evans
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is highly recommended to make a reservation as the restaurant tends to get very busy.
Popular choices include the various oyster preparations (especially Gilroy Garlic), wood-fired dishes like roasted chicken, and the clam chowder with bacon.
Yes, the restaurant features outdoor decks with cozy fire pits, offering great views, especially at sunset.
Happy hour offers special deals on drinks, including margaritas, and appetizers.
The ambiance is described as spacious, airy, inviting, warm, and classy, with a live-fire kitchen and beautiful decor.
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request for certain dishes, such as holiday fixings.
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Featured in these publications
Monterey County's Top Restaurants of the Decade
The recently redone setting is striking, featuring a live-fire kitchen at the heart of the bar, new outdoor decks and soothing coastal colors and sea-shore props throughout the space, giving humble Marina the upscale spot it has craved for a long time. Fans of raw and wood-fired food will delight in the options here; chef David Baron gave it a strong start but without Paul Corsentino coming over from Ventana Big Sur and giving this place new life I’m not sure Salt Wood earns this best-of-the-decade slot.
A Wine Lover’s Guide to Monterey County
In the seaside town of Marina lies The Sanctuary Beach Resort, a tucked-away hotel with villas just steps from the beach’s nightly bonfires and steadily pounding surf. Its centerpiece is Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette, where Paul Corsentino uses a wood-fired grill to make magic with barbecued chicken, pork chops and ling cod. But oysters are the star, from crisp raw and savory smoked versions to ones topped with kimchi butter or béarnaise-tarragon pesto.
Thanksgiving in Monterey County
Holiday fixings with a coastal twist, plus live music by David Holodiloff. For guests that want a cozy in-room Thanksgiving, The Sanctuary Beach Resort is also offering a Thanksgiving Buffet Basket for Two, which includes Chef Marin's oak-smoked turkey breast, smoked ham, BBQ yams, creamy pommes aligot, traditional sides and a shareable dessert. Vegetarian options are available upon request.
The Best Ocean View Restaurants in Monterey County
Located at the Sanctuary Beach Resort, Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette is known for their cured and wood-fired dishes, with a focus on seafood and impeccable vistas of Marina State Beach. For a real treat, head over during sunset and cozy up next to one of their outdoor fire pits to feel the ocean breeze.
Food – Best of Monterey Bay® Visitors Guide 2023-2024 | Visitors
In a community known for global flavors from mom and pops, Salt Wood gives Marina a taste of fine dining. Come for the seasonal oyster menu, stay for anything else on offer from the kitchen, which draws from local sources and changes seasonally. 3295 Dunes Drive, Marina.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit