Restaurants in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Best Restaurants
“Fantastic! The wait is worth it. Quality is amazing, portions substantial. Everything was cooked perfectly and wonderful service. Can't recommend enough.”
“Aubergine is a fine dining gem. Its intimate dining room ensures that your table will receive plenty of attention from the staff. The wine and drinks list is ample. The sommelier is deliberate about the wine choices and has good information to share. The bartenders work far in advance of the meal to prepare bases for delicious cocktails and “mocktails.” The food itself is an inventive journey through local fare, vegetable-forward dishes, seafood, and meat. Desserts are beautifully crafted and help close out the meal. (My son had performed well in a chess tournament, and they made him a beautiful and delicious dessert that incorporated chess into the theme!) Our family has dined here now 3 years in a row and we already are looking forward to our next visit.”
“Wild mushroom Pizza was delicious, oysters fresh, wine list was good. Service was good but we expected more of a Michelin star restaurant. Recommended when in Carmel. Busy, a reservation is highly recommended.”
“Great spot for Oaxaca food and cocktails. I recommend the chicken enchiladas and try the chapulines. It’s a nice spot if you want cocktails and appetizers. It’s dimly lit, so the ambiance is very city like with great service. They have carafe options too if you have a partner or a group.”
6
Foray
“Everything was incredible! Service was excellent, food was extremely delicious in my opinion ! I can tell chef was put all his heart in every single dish and created it incredible with the best ingredients! I definitely going back again when i visit Carmel . And sorry took me so long to review this and i think this restaurant deserves my 5 stars reviews.”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“The atmosphere, the food, the service was absolutely amazing. Soufflé is not an easy dish to make and the chef absolutely mastered it. Thank you! We will be back.”
“My girlfriend and I spent our 6 month anniversary in Carmel. We started off our evening at O'Callaghan, we tried couple other bars afterwards but they didn't have the vibe we were enjoying at O'Callaghan.”
“Great food and amazing service. We were in a rush and Joey and the kitchen were very accommodating getting the food out quickly. Some of the best seafood I’ve had since moving to the ”
Restaurants with Delivery
“The menu items look fantastic, though I am concerned it there are non-options for dessert. I applaud them for saying they cannot accommodate vegans right away. I look forward to an enjoyable time. However, the fixed menu: $150.00 per person with tax and gratis brings it shy of $200.00 a person and all the comments stated $100. I prefer ala carte when dining, sometimes the bill can even exceed the above prices. Hope to see you soon.”
“Fantastic! The wait is worth it. Quality is amazing, portions substantial. Everything was cooked perfectly and wonderful service. Can't recommend enough.”
“Aubergine is a fine dining gem. Its intimate dining room ensures that your table will receive plenty of attention from the staff. The wine and drinks list is ample. The sommelier is deliberate about the wine choices and has good information to share. The bartenders work far in advance of the meal to prepare bases for delicious cocktails and “mocktails.” The food itself is an inventive journey through local fare, vegetable-forward dishes, seafood, and meat. Desserts are beautifully crafted and help close out the meal. (My son had performed well in a chess tournament, and they made him a beautiful and delicious dessert that incorporated chess into the theme!) Our family has dined here now 3 years in a row and we already are looking forward to our next visit.”
“Wild mushroom Pizza was delicious, oysters fresh, wine list was good. Service was good but we expected more of a Michelin star restaurant. Recommended when in Carmel. Busy, a reservation is highly recommended.”
“Great spot for Oaxaca food and cocktails. I recommend the chicken enchiladas and try the chapulines. It’s a nice spot if you want cocktails and appetizers. It’s dimly lit, so the ambiance is very city like with great service. They have carafe options too if you have a partner or a group.”
“Everything was incredible! Service was excellent, food was extremely delicious in my opinion ! I can tell chef was put all his heart in every single dish and created it incredible with the best ingredients! I definitely going back again when i visit Carmel . And sorry took me so long to review this and i think this restaurant deserves my 5 stars reviews.”
“Great friendly brunch / lunch spot with great food. We've tried both the breakfast and lunch items and all were outstanding. The potato pancake with prosciutto and fromage blanc (get there before 11am and they run out) was creative and delicious as were the chilaquiles and lobster roll. The grilled cheese with tomato soup is on my list for next time as it looked outstanding.”
“Great food and amazing service. We were in a rush and Joey and the kitchen were very accommodating getting the food out quickly. Some of the best seafood I’ve had since moving to the ”
“Delicious dinner, stared with crab cakes, very flavourful lots of crab (not filled with breadcrumbs), lobster ravioli was amazing. Osso Bucco was hearty and delicious, finished off with Tiramisu. Great dinner topped off with a lovely conversation with the owne. Highly recommend when in Carmel. Lots of locals seem to dine here.”
“The food is absolutely delicious! Service is outstanding and the atmosphere is such a fun place to be in. They always have live music and amazing drinks. So much fun!!!”
“Be careful... the food is good and the portions are huge!We went for Sunday Brunch and laughter floated through the air. It felt like everyone—patrons and staff—were having a great time.There's a big indoor and outdoor space, they're both gorgeous, and they have a coffee and cocktail bar to help pass the time while you wait for your table.We'd definitely come back.Vegetarian options: They have vegetarian sausage which I didn't have, but my partner did and said it was delicious.”
“What a find. Walking distance from our hotel, lovely place and staff. Delicious Greek and Italian food. We had the bolognese and the lamb. So much food! Could not even finish it. Great wine pour. Can’t add photos. Ate it all including the complementary desert bite.”
“Was so good, went by twice while in Carmel for a wedding. Saturday. got there by 9am, display cases appeared fully stocked of everything. Sunday, got there by 10am, a few items were sold out. We got what we wanted, but still! The mocha actually had a rich chocolate flavor (compared to bucks) Love how they carry mini pastries which are the perfect size to share and taste and try variety!!!! Well priced, cheaper than SF.”
“We just happened to find the place while having a different restaurant in mind. What a gem we stumbled upon. They specialize in Wagyu steak, cooked to perfection, steak that melts in your mouth, with great selections of food on the menu and drinks to pair with your meals. Our favorites: Spinales and Denver steak and their fresh salads! The owners are hands on and ensuring customers leave happy, they are warm and welcoming…service is great! Beautiful small atmosphere. I recommend reserving a table for a special occasion. Once the word is out, the wait may be longer… Don’t leave without trying the chocolate dessert…….Delicious!!! It’s one of my to go places for a great steak dinner!”
“I had dinner here for the first time last May. I love schnitzel; and the schnitzel tasted incredible at this place! The Swiss Matterhorn dessert was heavenly! I hope to bring my dad here soon. I will definitely try the cheese fondue next time.”
“Delicious dinner, stared with crab cakes, very flavourful lots of crab (not filled with breadcrumbs), lobster ravioli was amazing. Osso Bucco was hearty and delicious, finished off with Tiramisu. Great dinner topped off with a lovely conversation with the owne. Highly recommend when in Carmel. Lots of locals seem to dine here.”
11
L'Escargot
“The food was outstanding !!!!! We ordered frog legs, olives and onion soup to start ... delicious! We had the scallops with risotto for main and it was also amazing. We took our time eating and it was nice to not feel rushed and enjoy.”
“What a find. Walking distance from our hotel, lovely place and staff. Delicious Greek and Italian food. We had the bolognese and the lamb. So much food! Could not even finish it. Great wine pour. Can’t add photos. Ate it all including the complementary desert bite.”
Outdoor Dining
“The atmosphere, the food, the service was absolutely amazing. Soufflé is not an easy dish to make and the chef absolutely mastered it. Thank you! We will be back.”
“My girlfriend and I spent our 6 month anniversary in Carmel. We started off our evening at O'Callaghan, we tried couple other bars afterwards but they didn't have the vibe we were enjoying at O'Callaghan.”
“As Carmel's only brewery, Hidden Hills is worth the visit. Please don't confuse it with Post No Bils, a more visible taphouse that, while nice, doesn't produce its own beers. If you see the taphouse, keep walking to find Hidden Hills.Every beer I've tasted at Hidden Hills I've enjoyed. The space is great, and the specialty beers these two brothers produce excellent.They recently brewed what they called Ubechata, a singularly unique Ube flavored beer that any Ube lover should try. The nitro pour creates a creamy feel that approximates a bite of Ube ice cream. Unexpected, and delicious.Every visit, I've left with more knowledge about the brewing process as well as about the different beer ingredients and ratios thereof that give various beers their character.Highly recommended.”
“The food was outstanding !!!!! We ordered frog legs, olives and onion soup to start ... delicious! We had the scallops with risotto for main and it was also amazing. We took our time eating and it was nice to not feel rushed and enjoy.”
“Have been dining at Napoli for decades and it never disappoints. One of our favorites is the Amalfi Salad which is full of grilled prawn, bay shrimp, avocado and delicious caesar dressing. Also fantastic are: Osso Bucco, Calamari /aioli, al forno 'sinatra' (pasta w/ Italian sausage, mushrooms, cheese). The salmon, the chicken parmigiana are also wonderful. The decor and atmosphere are colorful and fun.Have to mention the owner Pepe's wines which we enjoy very much in addition to the extensive wine list.Parking: Cruising the streets around Napoli there are places to park within easy walking distance.Kid-friendliness: With music playing, lots of laughter and kid-friendly foods Napoli is a great place to bring the kids.”
“A warm and welcoming restaurant a short walk from the main drag in Carmel. The menu changes each time we visit and tends to be more innovative with seasonal fish, cross cultural influences and less used cuts and types of meat. It’s a contrast from other local restaurants as while other restaurants work to emulate various European cuisines this restaurant is just itself. The exposed brick and cozy interior create an intimate experience and compliments the meal. Personally we make a point of coming to this restaurant every time we are in Carmel because during a holiday weekend in the pandemic they sat us and stayed late when no one else in town would serve us. Will be back.”
“Absolutely fantastic! Tea, coffee, sandwiches. Some of the best sandwiches we’ve had - anywhere! Blown away, so delicious. And very friendly and helpful staff.”
“Wonderful new restaurant in Carmel; the owner also owns The Tree House so he really understands the restaurant business and is very focused on customer service and great food. Very cool vibes, wonderful warm ambience and excellent pizza. Service is impeccable!”
“VIN offers a delightfully different tasting room experience. Variety is the keynote - both wineries and wines, flights and by the glass. The staff is very knowledge and friendly. We were there on a lively Friday - the atmosphere was fun and the staff was attentive to everyone.”
“Chefs Tim Wood and Chris Caul follow up their Award winning Woody's at the Airport with this venture at the lovely Del Mesa dining rooms. Embarrasses a lot of local restaurants charging twice the price.”
“Always a fantastic experience. We come out from Texas two or three times a year and always have a meal at PortaBella. Fantastic food, friendly professional service, warm ambience and a definite one to repeat. Fantastic braised short ribs. The bisque is amazing. My wife loves the salmon. plenty of dessert options.”
“Fantastic experience of hospitality and cuisine! Colin was super friendly, responsive and charming. Inspired new California cuisine was delicious! We had a nice private dining room for our daughter’s Birthday. We will definitely be back!”
“The woman waitress or owner was so friendly. The price is really reasonable for the big portion. I ordered Broccoli Shrimp Lunch Set. It was delicious. But the black pepper soup wasn't my style.”
“The ambiance was great, pretty chill vibes. I was traveling from Fresno, CA and I plan to visit again if I'm ever near the area. The service was great despite the fact that it started to get busy. The food was excellent for a reasonable price. The honey lemonade is a must try!”
“This is one of my favorite restaurants in Carmel, but last night they outdid themselves. On the menu was an appetizer of truffle pate with baked brie. What wasn't mentioned were the cherries, apple slices and roasted garlic. It might have been one of the best appetizers I have ever eaten.”
“This is a great pub, honestly one of the best pints of Guinness I've had in the US. We had some snack food, fries and calamari which was excellent. There is a separate games room with a small shuffle board and a fussball table to keep the kids entertained. Will definitely be back when in the area!”
“I had dinner here for the first time last May. I love schnitzel; and the schnitzel tasted incredible at this place! The Swiss Matterhorn dessert was heavenly! I hope to bring my dad here soon. I will definitely try the cheese fondue next time.”
“Have been dining at Napoli for decades and it never disappoints. One of our favorites is the Amalfi Salad which is full of grilled prawn, bay shrimp, avocado and delicious caesar dressing. Also fantastic are: Osso Bucco, Calamari /aioli, al forno 'sinatra' (pasta w/ Italian sausage, mushrooms, cheese). The salmon, the chicken parmigiana are also wonderful. The decor and atmosphere are colorful and fun.Have to mention the owner Pepe's wines which we enjoy very much in addition to the extensive wine list.Parking: Cruising the streets around Napoli there are places to park within easy walking distance.Kid-friendliness: With music playing, lots of laughter and kid-friendly foods Napoli is a great place to bring the kids.”
Online Reservation Available
“Nice atmosphere--a guitarist came in to play music which was't too loud despite the small space and added to a pleasant ambience. Everyone in my group ordered the flight, which came in test tubes. Overall it felt like a good deal compared to other wineries we visited that day in terms of volume, and each of the wines tasted great. The tasting descriptions were specific and accurate so that you could practice pinpointing flavors on your palette.”
“The hostess Mariz was very attentive and friendly which made the atmosphere even better.The food was so delicious!?Loved all of them with the fresh vegetables.(The strawberry lemonade was a bit sweeter than usual. Suggestion: maybe the sauce for the Steak would be better by it's side)Thank you for everything! ”
“Marvelous Mediterranean flavors! Excellent octopus, House lamb beef pasta so delicious. Mamas meatballs with saffron rice perfect comfort food. The Beirut pudding dessert was an amazing surprise. Loved the silky smooth texture together with orange blossom infused honey and pistachios, ? Wow!”
“We had a great time at vesuvio. We weren't overly hungry and had the pizza. Who would have thought adding honey to Pizza would be so good? We met some new friends, too! Be sure to go upstairs to the roof top bar. You can eat up stairs as well.”
“A little hard to find, but worth it. Very dog friendly... brought water, treats, and a bed. Extensive and interesting breakfast menu. Excellent hash and eggs (ask for a little crispy on the hand cut corn beef. Great service.”
“This is a nice spot for lunch. They’re located right in the plaza area and have plenty of food/drink options. The pizza crust is sourdough and worth ordering. It’s perfect if you need a pit stop for food or drinks, and I’d recommend this for a group spot.”
“Our family was in town on Easter Weekend so we stopped by Rise & Roam Bakery and Pizzeria and so glad we did everything we ordered was delicious!! We had pizza, tomato bisque soup, ceasar salad all so good. It’s an added bonus that the restaurant has a wonderful bakery and great coffee next door!! The almond croissant was AMAZING!”
“Had such a great time at a wine tasting /cooking class with Chef Justin. He is amazing with some of the simplest ingredients. We made flat bread Great ambiance, fun, great wine selection. Highly recommend!!!!”
“I love love love Scratch! This is my favorite place to come for a glass or two on my day off. There's always good music, welcoming staff, and a gorgeous environment to unwind and enjoy delicious wine!! The tasting room manager Maria is always so sweet and attentive, and Sabrine the owner is such a genuine, kind person to chat with when you're lucky enough to run into her. All of the wine is amazing, but the C-47 line is out of this world. They also always have fun events like Drag Bingo & Wine Paw-ty with adoptable dogs to meet! Definitely a fun place to check out, I highly recommend!!”
“What a View, this place is awesome, the Pacific Edge was great too, we had some appetizers & dinner, we went here for my wife's birthday with our dear friends, was a great evening, good dinners, good drinks, good desserts, and a wonderful atmosphere.”
“I've been going to the Rio Grill when the 1/2 smoked chicken was $10 (now $32 and still worth every penny). Kelly was our server, and was an excellent, thoughtful, and polite. We look forward to returning soon. Thank you.”
“Very nice servers. Food was flavorful but uneven: great gnocchi, octopus app was luke warm, wine selection was great, zucchini flower was a bit light on zucchini. Enjoyed the experience; just need a bit more food consistency.”
“Wow!!! What's not to like about SUR at the Barnyard!!! Many, I mean many have mentioned the service...and they were right! Service was nothing short of spectacular!!! Austin was our server, who is just amazing...great personality, prompt, informative and just plan nice! As was EVERY employee there! Austin works Wed thru Sun each week, so try and plan to visit then...though I'm sure whether he's your waiter or another, it'll be amazing!The food...we had the cheesy bread, French Dip and Tempura Seabass Fish & Chips and all were flavorful and cooked to perfection! The mimosa and view was just right. Lastly, Austin made me an amazing Affogato (which wasn't on the menu), to celebrate my birthday!SUR at The Barnyard is a definite revisit, and if you haven't been...definitely worth the trip!Kid-friendliness: Is kid friendly”
“Loved everything about it! It's pricey but of worthy value for the quality of the food. Unique flavors that are delicious and beautifully presented. The service was great and the aesthetic/ambiance transports you to another dreamy place. Can't wait to return!”
“This is the very best sushi restaurant in the area! The food is amazing, the server was so attentive and the ambiance was clean and calming. I came on here to rave about the food but truly had a wonderful experience and plan on coming back soon!”
“A warm and welcoming restaurant a short walk from the main drag in Carmel. The menu changes each time we visit and tends to be more innovative with seasonal fish, cross cultural influences and less used cuts and types of meat. It’s a contrast from other local restaurants as while other restaurants work to emulate various European cuisines this restaurant is just itself. The exposed brick and cozy interior create an intimate experience and compliments the meal. Personally we make a point of coming to this restaurant every time we are in Carmel because during a holiday weekend in the pandemic they sat us and stayed late when no one else in town would serve us. Will be back.”
17
Pizza Heaven
“Wonderful new restaurant in Carmel; the owner also owns The Tree House so he really understands the restaurant business and is very focused on customer service and great food. Very cool vibes, wonderful warm ambience and excellent pizza. Service is impeccable!”
18
Akaoni
“A Culinary Journey to Remember at AkaoniFrom the moment I stepped into Akaoni in the enchanting town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, I knew I was about to embark on an unforgettable dining adventure. This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a portal to a world where every bite tells a story, and every dish is a masterpiece.The ambiance struck a perfect balance between elegance and comfort, with subtle lighting that made the exquisite Japanese artistry around the room come alive. The staff welcomed us with genuine warmth, making us feel like honored guests in a grand culinary celebration.Then came the sushi - oh, the sushi! Each piece was a work of art, crafted with precision and passion. The fish, fresh from the dreams of Neptune himself, melted on the tongue, leaving behind a symphony of flavors that danced across the palate in perfect harmony. The sushi chef, a true maestro, wielded his knife with the grace of a samurai, presenting us with creations that were too beautiful to eat, yet too delicious to resist.But the magic didn’t stop at sushi. Every dish we ordered was a revelation, from the succulent sashimi that whispered secrets of the deep to the innovative rolls that brought together flavors and textures in ways I never imagined possible. It was clear that Akaoni isn’t just serving food; they’re crafting experiences.The highlight of the evening was an exclusive dish, whispered about among culinary circles but rarely seen. It was a fusion of flavors so unique, so extraordinary, that words fail to capture its essence. Let's just say it was an epicurean dream that lingered long after the last bite.As we bid farewell to Akaoni, walking out into the starlit night of Carmel-by-the-Sea, it was with the knowledge that we had just experienced something truly special. This wasn’t just a meal; it was a voyage to the heights of culinary excellence. Akaoni is not a restaurant you simply visit; it’s a destination you experience with all your senses.If you find yourself in Carmel-by-the-Sea, do yourself a favor: visit Akaoni. But be warned, your culinary standards might never be the same again.”
Takeout Restaurants
“This is a great pub, honestly one of the best pints of Guinness I've had in the US. We had some snack food, fries and calamari which was excellent. There is a separate games room with a small shuffle board and a fussball table to keep the kids entertained. Will definitely be back when in the area!”
“A Culinary Journey to Remember at AkaoniFrom the moment I stepped into Akaoni in the enchanting town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, I knew I was about to embark on an unforgettable dining adventure. This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a portal to a world where every bite tells a story, and every dish is a masterpiece.The ambiance struck a perfect balance between elegance and comfort, with subtle lighting that made the exquisite Japanese artistry around the room come alive. The staff welcomed us with genuine warmth, making us feel like honored guests in a grand culinary celebration.Then came the sushi - oh, the sushi! Each piece was a work of art, crafted with precision and passion. The fish, fresh from the dreams of Neptune himself, melted on the tongue, leaving behind a symphony of flavors that danced across the palate in perfect harmony. The sushi chef, a true maestro, wielded his knife with the grace of a samurai, presenting us with creations that were too beautiful to eat, yet too delicious to resist.But the magic didn’t stop at sushi. Every dish we ordered was a revelation, from the succulent sashimi that whispered secrets of the deep to the innovative rolls that brought together flavors and textures in ways I never imagined possible. It was clear that Akaoni isn’t just serving food; they’re crafting experiences.The highlight of the evening was an exclusive dish, whispered about among culinary circles but rarely seen. It was a fusion of flavors so unique, so extraordinary, that words fail to capture its essence. Let's just say it was an epicurean dream that lingered long after the last bite.As we bid farewell to Akaoni, walking out into the starlit night of Carmel-by-the-Sea, it was with the knowledge that we had just experienced something truly special. This wasn’t just a meal; it was a voyage to the heights of culinary excellence. Akaoni is not a restaurant you simply visit; it’s a destination you experience with all your senses.If you find yourself in Carmel-by-the-Sea, do yourself a favor: visit Akaoni. But be warned, your culinary standards might never be the same again.”
“Absolutely divine experience at Reba's Bakery! The chocolate chocolate cake was pure decadence – each layer exquisitely moist, and the double chocolate brownie, dense and rich, was a true indulgence. We also ventured into some unique treats like the peanut butter jelly bar and the cinnamon doughnut hole muffins, each bursting with flavor. A must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth craving perfection! 5 stars all the way! ??”
“The food and drinks were great, and the bartender was friendly. I'd left my purse at my stool, and the hostess chased me down, too. I was so grateful. Highly recommend the Caesar salad.”
“HOLY MOLY! I don't know where to start! Pliny the Elder on draft seems like a good place, obviously. The rest of their beer selection is incredible as well: Sante Adarius, Discretion, Hidden Hills, and so much more! I haven't eaten anywhere that has a selection like this in a long time. They also have a great selection of wines! Some of the most unique Champagnes and small production reds. My girlfriend had a glass of Riesling that knocked her socks off! SO yummy. "Parker's Picks" as they call them are on point!The food was superb. Period. They just won an award for best Burger and Sandwiches, which is undoubtedly true. But their Sweet Sticky Ribs are amazing! We had those, the burger, BTL (OMG), Paisano, and some sides. Everything was a home-run. Fresh, high quality, and FULL of flavor. Well done!The team and atmosphere was so nice and welcoming. Amanda and Cesar greeted us with smiles, let us know what the best bites were, and then graciously helped us make our decisions. Even their chef in the back said hello when he brought the food up front! What a great team! I can't wait for my return trip. I heard they have the best breakfast burritos in town! Big fans.”
“I've eaten here close to 10 times now, and each and every time has been a delight. The service is excellent, the host, Dia, is warm and inviting, and the food is great. It is such a quaint and romantic place. I welcome change from the touristy spots down the street. I highly recommend this restaurant.”
“I love this place! It’s in a beautiful, peaceful location, and the coffee drinks are always delicious. I was especially touched this morning, Easter Sunday, when the lovely barista made an adorable bunny in my latte foam. So cute I didn’t want to put a lid on it! ?”
“One of Carmel's best hidden gems. Amazing pasta and it's very affordable. We always stop on our way out of town. The goat cheese ravioli is so good! Their pesto too.”
“We eat here at least once a week or every other week, the food is delicious, the service is great, and the prices are really reasonable for what you get. Sara is wonderful with advise on what to get.”
“After storms and power outages in town I'm so glad this opened up before we left! High on my list to visit in Carmel as it's my favorite beverage! Champagne ! We were the only people In here as it just opened So we had great service and samples ! Great little set up inside , very contemporary and cool decor and I loved all the glasses they had available and for sale. The champagne itself was really good . I had a great glass full of very effervescent bubbles . Perfect afternoon drink. They have an actual vineyard out in the hills somewhere nearby. Love when they put a tasting room in a town though. They do Rosè bubbly too and have a few different vintages. Some wines too. It's a great place to visit on the wine mile in Carmel, especially as it specializes in the good stuff ! Another check in the Carmel list !”
“Had the organic steel-cut oatmeal with strawberries and blueberries. Very well prepared on a cold morning. Also had the veggie quiche which was very good as well. Enough for two. Nice outdoor seating which is protected from rain, so our dog was happy too.”
“We went there for lunch. The staff is friendly. We had chicken pasta, veggie flatbread and coffee. Everything was good. I loved the pasta in basil and tomato sauce. The overall vibe and location of the place is nice.”
“We went to this Subway on the way before going to see Big Sur, it's a good place to eat a sandwich.Parking: There is parking lots right in front.Kid-friendliness: It is a place where children can be”
“First of all let me say that my food was delicious. The sausage was very good especially with the syrup. And the banana pancakes were very sweet with very fresh bananas. My bacon was rich and not too fatty. The syrup I got with my Katy cakes was hot and the pancakes were soft and buttery. The food took about 20 mins to arrive and the waiter was nice in providing us with his suggestions and his favorite menu item. Now the environment was unreal. The walls were lined with rodeo style paintings, posters, trinkets and more! We were only provided with one paper napkin each which I wasn't a fan of. The table was also sticky when we were sat and we ended up cleaning it ourselves. Overall, I wouldn't eat here again but it's a great experience to try.”
“We went for breakfast on a Sunday and they were very busy but we got a table quickly and the service was prompt. Our server was extremely friendly.My wife had the black bean vegetarian chili with polenta which she enjoyed. I has a chorizo omelette. It was great, plenty of spice, melted cheese on top, and home fried potatoes on the side.The coffee was excellent and we noted that they serve a wide variety of coffee drinks.The decor is dated with a 80s vibe, but very clean and comfortable. A bit cramped when all the tables are full.”
“Nice atmosphere--a guitarist came in to play music which was't too loud despite the small space and added to a pleasant ambience. Everyone in my group ordered the flight, which came in test tubes. Overall it felt like a good deal compared to other wineries we visited that day in terms of volume, and each of the wines tasted great. The tasting descriptions were specific and accurate so that you could practice pinpointing flavors on your palette.”
“The hostess Mariz was very attentive and friendly which made the atmosphere even better.The food was so delicious!?Loved all of them with the fresh vegetables.(The strawberry lemonade was a bit sweeter than usual. Suggestion: maybe the sauce for the Steak would be better by it's side)Thank you for everything! ”
“Chefs Tim Wood and Chris Caul follow up their Award winning Woody's at the Airport with this venture at the lovely Del Mesa dining rooms. Embarrasses a lot of local restaurants charging twice the price.”
Cheap Eats
“Great group of people running this hole in the wall deli. Great food and good prices. Only downside is that there's no seating inside. It's also right next to the post office, so there's only 10 minute parking anywhere nearby. As long as you know you're coming to grab and go then this is the place to go to.”
“Great little breakfast or lunch place. Very nice staff. The cook seemed to be very accommodating and accurate for how you like your food. Try their homemade raisin toast. It's delicious.The atmosphere is perfect for what you want in a breakfast place. Small, cozy, clean and quality.”
“Wonderful familiar food… way beyond the burgers that also offer vegetarian options. The owners are very kind and gracious.Vegetarian options: Most meals can be done vegetarian.Parking: Very easy parking.Wheelchair accessibility: Easy accessibility for our friends with different abilities.”
“We had a wonderful experience. I run a coffee shop in Chicago so I know quality when I see it and this was it. The beans are roasted in house. The lattes were incredible. The kind gentleman who took our orders and made our drinks was so welcoming and honestly wanted our feedback. The shop is hidden down a beautiful little alley. Then to top it off, we completely spilled a latte and he remade it for free. I will definitely be coming back on my next visit. Thank you for the amazing service.We had the lavender fields latte, crème brûlée latte, and an iced coffee ☕️”
“Are you kidding me!?!? This pizza was by far some of the best pizza me and my husband have had. We had togo place a second order it was so good. We were very impressed by this place. The Caesar salad and Sicilian salad I think it’s called? Was sooooo good!!!!! Huge slices of pizza. Just wow. My husband is a huge food critic lol so I know it was that good if he kept talking about how good it was. I highly recommend giving them a try. We ordered pepperoni pizza. A Hawaiian slice. And their Margherita slice. Soooo good. And the slices were HOT!!!! The pizza crust was amazing. So worth going to. Customer service was great. We absolutely loved it here. No complaints at all! Not one!!Try it!!!Kid-friendliness: Yep. Kids approve!!!!”
“Whenever I'm working in Big sur I stop on Rio rd for some gas. Even if I'm running late, I make time to stop for some bagels to give the crew. There's a big parking lot so you won't have an issue getting in and out of this place especially with the fast service. There's usually a line of blue collar workers, students and soccer moms alike. I've tried a few pastries and savory dishes as well. The chicken bake is always a safe bet if you don't want to eat too much. When they warm it up for you, it's always pretty hot in the first few bites but kinda cold in the middle still. I don't care too much to neg but it's something to he aware of. I also got the pig in a blanket, I forgot the name they use for it but it was good. A different type of sausage that I'm not super familiar with, not the best but I don't mind. The pastry that it's wrapped in is second to none. Throw some mustard on that bad boy and you're ready to take on the world. The bagels are really good too. I haven't tried one that I didn't agree with. Ambiance is simple and laid back for those that really just order and take off. Not sure if it's classified as a donut shop but that's pretty much the setting inside.”
“This place has some of the best Baja tacos I've had in central California. My wife is not big on fish but even she couldn't pass up on trying some. Would definitely recommend if your looking for the real deal California fish taco experience.”
“I get the raging Bull every time with the beans. I wish they always had the outdoor seating, but five out of five otherwise!Kid-friendliness: I see lots of families here, they even have a party room.”
“Came right before closing and they were really nice. The baked goods were delicious and I’d highly recommend breakfast here if you're on the go... BEST BREAKFAST BURRITO IN ”
“Really nice staff & the food was surprisingly very tasty. It looks unassuming at first & just stumbled upon the place on accident for a quick bite before heading up to the Bay. Don’t think I’ll ever be back in the area but if I did would stop here again for the meatloaf & chicken cobb salad.”
“Stopped here to grab a hot cup of coffee before window shopping.Here’s what I liked:- the line moved quickly- there was plenty of space to stand inside while we waited.- there is a cute little indoor seating area but you need to be able to climb a couple of steps to get up to it.- some outdoor seating at small bistro tables- pastries were delicious! We tried the raspberry almond bar, pecan bar and lemon bar. All were incredible but the pecan ended up being the crowd favorite followed closely by the lemon bar.- coffee (vanilla latte and hot tea) were very tastyThings I would change:- I ordered my latte extra hot but it was barely beyond warm. I had to drink quickly before it got cold.- very limited street parking…can’t change that but I would if I could! LOL.”
“We stumbled upon China Delight and were pleasantly surprised at the great meal we had. We ordered the sauteed green beans, half duck, fried rice and cashew chicken. Everything was quite good and the green beans and duck were especially good. My dad said they were the best green beans he has ever had (he is still talking about them). Friendly service and overall a good night of getting Chinese food with family.”
“Carmel Valley Ranch is part of the Hyatt Unbound Collection. This property has exceeded all our expectations for a family getaway with our two young toddlers! The warmth and hospitality of the staff continued all throughout our entire stay. The resort's 500 acre grounds, nestled in the serene Carmel Valley, provided the perfect backdrop for our family adventures. Full disclosure, I had originally booked the Hyatt Highland Inn but was moved to Carmel Valley Ranch at the request of Hyatt Global because the original hotel was under renovation during the time we planned to visit. So I did very little research prior to showing up to Carmel Valley Ranch. At the check-in lobby at the Lodge, I instantly noticed that this is a very kid-friendly resort. The staff took out a treasure chest of rubber duckies for our 2 kids to choose from. They loved it! The Lodge is also where they serve s'more kits in the evening and sample goat cheese (directly from the farm) and crackers during the random days. We enjoyed the s'more kits every night at our kids' request, and it truly felt like we were glamping in style. Our spacious 800ft Ranch Suite with King bed was beautifully designed, offering both comfort and luxury, and provided ample space for our family to relax and unwind. More than just having a big space, we really value any sort of suite where we can have a closed door between a sleeping/napping toddler. The amenities were top-notch. The bedding was plush. The bathroom was spacious, though the vent when on was a bit too buzzy for my liking. We enjoyed just hanging out in the room for a good part of the day. Both of our kids were able to fit in the bathtub - not to mention the hotel was very attentive and offered us an infant bath kit. My kids were mesmerized by the fireplace with its easy-to-set timer, which served more as a decoration anyways since the heater is more than sufficient. The resort's family-friendly atmosphere made us feel right at home. Our kids were too young for some of the hikes offered on the brochures - even then we saw deer prancing on the property. Our kids had a blast exploring the on-site petting zoos, although they seemed a bit shy compared to the more outgoing llamas. Overall, we really enjoyed removing our kids from the hustle and bustle of city life and letting them soak in all the nature. As a globalist, I was fortunate to have complimentary breakfast and we were very, very happy with the offerings. This is no Hyatt Place continental breakfast. Everything from the fruit platter to pancakes could easily rival many of the local 5-star diners. One negative, which is clearly stated on the website, is that the family pool and splash pad over at the River Ranch are still under construction. We visited during a chilly winter month, so we wouldn't have been able to take advantage of it anyways, but you may want to take note of when you're visiting to see if construction is complete. While we did check out the Kids' Club down by the River Ranch, it felt a tad too young for our 4-year-old. Perhaps it was because the children there were still in their diapers, so we opted not to send our kids. Nonetheless, it's reassuring to know that there's an option to take a break from the little ones (there is an hourly charge). While we went down to the River Ranch via the shuttle service from the Lodge, we checked out one of the many available stroller models. It was really cool that they even offer this service. Though I don't know if we would do it again just because how hilly the property is to use a stroller anyways. Despite the current condition of River Ranch, our overall experience at Carmel Valley Ranch was nothing short of magical. The resort's dedication to providing a special family experience, combined with its serene natural setting and glamping-style accommodations, made it the perfect destination for our family getaway. We can't wait to return to create more cherished memories at this exceptional resort!”
“Fun unpretentious bar in Carmel? Yes! We didn't eat here, but the bar menu looks great and the place smelled good. The drink menu was really ample, something for everyone. Their craft cocktails is what most ppl were here for and they were interesting and tasty. I was very happy to find blue Chimay. The service was friendly and quick. We should have stayed longer.”
“Conveniently located right on the corner of Rio Rd & Hwy 1 in the Crossroads. Mobile ordering available. Great option for studying, working remotely, meeting a friend for coffee, etc. due to the large seating area & number of tables compared to most Starbucks locally.Only reason for 4 ⭐'s is that this location tends to be incredibly slow in comparison to the one I usually frequent on my way to work out on Hwy 68 near Ryan Ranch or the ones I sometimes visit on Alvarado in downtown Monterey, the one next to Home Depot in Seaside, or out in Sand City across from Target.Parking: The upside at this location compared to the other local stores is that while parking at all of the others can be pretty difficult, that's never a problem in the Crossroads whatsoever.”
22
Portabella
“Always a fantastic experience. We come out from Texas two or three times a year and always have a meal at PortaBella. Fantastic food, friendly professional service, warm ambience and a definite one to repeat. Fantastic braised short ribs. The bisque is amazing. My wife loves the salmon. plenty of dessert options.”
23
Yafa
“Marvelous Mediterranean flavors! Excellent octopus, House lamb beef pasta so delicious. Mamas meatballs with saffron rice perfect comfort food. The Beirut pudding dessert was an amazing surprise. Loved the silky smooth texture together with orange blossom infused honey and pistachios, ? Wow!”
24
The Pocket
“Fantastic experience of hospitality and cuisine! Colin was super friendly, responsive and charming. Inspired new California cuisine was delicious! We had a nice private dining room for our daughter’s Birthday. We will definitely be back!”
25
Tommy's Wok
“The woman waitress or owner was so friendly. The price is really reasonable for the big portion. I ordered Broccoli Shrimp Lunch Set. It was delicious. But the black pepper soup wasn't my style.”
“This is one of my favorite restaurants in Carmel, but last night they outdid themselves. On the menu was an appetizer of truffle pate with baked brie. What wasn't mentioned were the cherries, apple slices and roasted garlic. It might have been one of the best appetizers I have ever eaten.”
“We had a great time at vesuvio. We weren't overly hungry and had the pizza. Who would have thought adding honey to Pizza would be so good? We met some new friends, too! Be sure to go upstairs to the roof top bar. You can eat up stairs as well.”
“It was a good experience. This location specialized in Bordeaux wines. 5 wines for $35. Presentation and descriptions were good, informative, nice build up to each tasting. The shop was cozy and inviting with a wild west kind of feeling.”
“After storms and power outages in town I'm so glad this opened up before we left! High on my list to visit in Carmel as it's my favorite beverage! Champagne ! We were the only people In here as it just opened So we had great service and samples ! Great little set up inside , very contemporary and cool decor and I loved all the glasses they had available and for sale. The champagne itself was really good . I had a great glass full of very effervescent bubbles . Perfect afternoon drink. They have an actual vineyard out in the hills somewhere nearby. Love when they put a tasting room in a town though. They do Rosè bubbly too and have a few different vintages. Some wines too. It's a great place to visit on the wine mile in Carmel, especially as it specializes in the good stuff ! Another check in the Carmel list !”
“Janice was so fun to hang out with. We came in from the rain and had a blast. It's a small tasting room but full of stories and ambiance. Think Cheers, but with wine. Loved it. Their cab franc and consortium wine are my recommendations.”
Most Popular Restaurants
“What a View, this place is awesome, the Pacific Edge was great too, we had some appetizers & dinner, we went here for my wife's birthday with our dear friends, was a great evening, good dinners, good drinks, good desserts, and a wonderful atmosphere.”
“Be careful... the food is good and the portions are huge!We went for Sunday Brunch and laughter floated through the air. It felt like everyone—patrons and staff—were having a great time.There's a big indoor and outdoor space, they're both gorgeous, and they have a coffee and cocktail bar to help pass the time while you wait for your table.We'd definitely come back.Vegetarian options: They have vegetarian sausage which I didn't have, but my partner did and said it was delicious.”
“My wife and I celebrated our anniversary here and we had a marvelous time. The food was superb and the wine list is incredible. The ambiance is cozy and relaxed, but lively and fun. The highlight of the evening was the service, however. Our server made the evening truly memorable--very engaging, helpful, patient, not to mention hilarious! The table was guaranteed for two hours but we were there for almost four! We couldn't recommend a better place in Carmel to enjoy a fabulous meal.”
“This place is quite awesome. The food is absolutely delicious and well cooked. The baby back ribs were exquisite and packed a lot of meat on them. The onion rings are also crispy, delicious and flavorful. The food is pricey though, but you will get good portions cooked perfectly, so it's a fair trade in the end. Plenty of good decor of Clint Eastwood as he originally owned the place until 1999.The only downside here is parking is an actual nightmare. Took nearly half an hour to find a spot before I could go inside, so be prepared for that. The parking is the reason the atmosphere only got 3 stars as it does bring the experience down quite a bit.”
“We only knew about the restaurant. We didn't know you could stay in a room there. But the restaurant on Sunday was a buffet style with delicious food. We plan to come back.Food & drinks: Full bar service”
“I've been going to the Rio Grill when the 1/2 smoked chicken was $10 (now $32 and still worth every penny). Kelly was our server, and was an excellent, thoughtful, and polite. We look forward to returning soon. Thank you.”
“It has been around for decades and it is still delivering good food and service in a very cozy atmosphere. Great happy hour including pizza, meat balls, bruschetta and house Chianti and Chardonnay at very reasonable prices.”
“The food at this place is worth trying! We had Flaherty's Seafood cob salad (I ordered it gluten free) and Linguine Pescatore pasta. Everything is super fresh and very delicious. They prepare gluten free. Everyone's attention is excellent and the atmosphere is very nice. You can eat outside too. I recommend!!”
“We dine there several times per year and always enjoy our meal and the fine service. I usually get a chimchanga because so few restaurants offer it, and now it's not offered here either, so only 4 stars for food today.”
“I've eaten here close to 10 times now, and each and every time has been a delight. The service is excellent, the host, Dia, is warm and inviting, and the food is great. It is such a quaint and romantic place. I welcome change from the touristy spots down the street. I highly recommend this restaurant.”
“High-quality fish is critical to good sushi, and Toro delivers! Absolutely mouth-watering sushi. If you like rolls, they have excellent options as well that are creative and delicious. You can tell ownership is good because everything comes from the top down and the service is wonderful and friendly.”
“Very nice servers. Food was flavorful but uneven: great gnocchi, octopus app was luke warm, wine selection was great, zucchini flower was a bit light on zucchini. Enjoyed the experience; just need a bit more food consistency.”
“We had dinner at Catch last night and we were so thoroughly impressed with our experience. Dennis and all the rest of the staff were so wonderful. They made sure we were well taken care of. The food was delicious. We both got pasta items and they were made to perfection. The restaurant wasn't overly loud; the environment was relaxing and made for an enjoyable evening. I would definitely recommend coming to Catch!”
“Favorite restaurant in all of Carmel. The ambiance feels like a Roman restaurant in Trastevere. The food is just as delicious too and plenty of wine options! I recommend the octopus and pasta allá carbonara. The quality of the guanciale adds to the texture and flavor of the dish. A must visit if you’re in Carmel.”
“Wow!!! What's not to like about SUR at the Barnyard!!! Many, I mean many have mentioned the service...and they were right! Service was nothing short of spectacular!!! Austin was our server, who is just amazing...great personality, prompt, informative and just plan nice! As was EVERY employee there! Austin works Wed thru Sun each week, so try and plan to visit then...though I'm sure whether he's your waiter or another, it'll be amazing!The food...we had the cheesy bread, French Dip and Tempura Seabass Fish & Chips and all were flavorful and cooked to perfection! The mimosa and view was just right. Lastly, Austin made me an amazing Affogato (which wasn't on the menu), to celebrate my birthday!SUR at The Barnyard is a definite revisit, and if you haven't been...definitely worth the trip!Kid-friendliness: Is kid friendly”
“The menu items look fantastic, though I am concerned it there are non-options for dessert. I applaud them for saying they cannot accommodate vegans right away. I look forward to an enjoyable time. However, the fixed menu: $150.00 per person with tax and gratis brings it shy of $200.00 a person and all the comments stated $100. I prefer ala carte when dining, sometimes the bill can even exceed the above prices. Hope to see you soon.”