31 Best American Restaurants in Carmel By The Sea

Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel New American
7th avenue Monte Verde St, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Kaluga Queen Caviar Corn Chicken Skin
Monterey Bay Abalone
Kumamoto Oysters

“Aubergine is the best fine dining experience in Carmel-by-the-Sea. The food, presentation, ambience, and service are all of the highest caliber and well-deserving of the recognition earned by this restaurant. Aubergine was more than accommodating of my personal request for plant-based options in lieu of their traditional prix fixe menu, and they exceeded my expectations. I would have to travel to New York to another world-renowned restaurant to receive the same level of consideration and experience a similar level of culinary excellence. My wife was able to enjoy the traditional prix fixe menu options while I was thrilled by the creativity of the kitchen. She informed me later that this was the first time Aubergine had catered to a complete plant-based course for dinner. Absolutely magnifique. We were also introduced to a terrific Sauternes by the sommelier, a novelty we hadn't explored before, but now embrace. Thank you to Chef Cogley and the entire staff for making our visit so memorable. We will return. John and Rhona“

4.5 Superb193 Reviews

2
Foray

Foray American
NEC San Carlos Street &, 5th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

San Diego Spiny Lobster Tail
Baja Blue Fin Toro
Cauliflower Steak
Oyster Roe 2 Ways
Huckleberry Pie
Cheese Plate
Wagyu Steak
Kale Salad
Truffle
Sorbet

“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.“

4.8 Superb106 Reviews
From Scratch Restaurant American • $
3626 The Barnyard Building C, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Huevos Rancheros Nacho Style with Chorizo and Eggs
House-Made Brisket Chili Bowl
Biscuits and Sausage Gravy
Extreme Biscuits and Gravy
Eggs Benedict - Sausage
Cinnamon French Toast
Triple D Special
Eggs Florentine
Cheese Biscuits
Roll Pancakes

“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.“

4.4 Superb387 Reviews
Brophy's Tavern Pubs • $$
San Carlos St &, 4th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Cheese Sandwich & House Made Tomato Bisque V
Brophy's Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Braised Short Rib Fries
Filet Mignon Sliders
Prime Rib French Dip
French Dip Sandwich
Brophy's Cobb Salad
Truffle Fries
Fish and Chips
Giant Pretzel

“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!“

4.5 Superb122 Reviews
Stationæry Coffee & Tea • $$
San Carlos Street, 3 NE of 6th Avenue, San Carlos St, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Avocado Soft Hen Egg Meyer Lemon Red Pepper Flake Radish Sprouts Country Bread
Chilaquiles Chorizo Crema Cotija Salsa Roja Avocado Fried Egg
Avocado Toast with and Without Eggs
Bread and Chive Butter
Spagetti Amatriciana
Blueberry Pancakes
Biscuits and Gravy
Butterscotch Budino
Breakfast Plate
Steak and Eggs

“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.“

4.2 Good132 Reviews
The Pocket American • $$$
Lincoln St, 5 NE of, 6th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Housemade Truffle Ricotta Gnocchi
Bucatini Carbonara
Braised Short Ribs
Hazelnut Brittle
Grilled Octopus
Chicken Curry
Rack of Lamb
Apple Salad
Angus Beef
Calamari

“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!“

4.3 Superb413 Reviews
Woody's at Del Mesa American • $$
200 Del Mesa Dr, Carmel-By-The-Sea

“An unexpected amazing dinner and experience! We had the Caesar salad and beet salads and ribeye and filet for dinner. Robust portions cooked perfectly and the side twice baked potatoes were decadent but so tasty!! Service is exceptional. We will be back!“

4.8 Superb25 Reviews
SUR at The Barnyard American • $$
3601 The Barnyard Ste A-21, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Macadamia Nut Crusted Seabass Topped with Jumbo Prawn
Grilled Fresh Salmon Tacos or Steak Tacos
Southern Fried Chicken & Waffles
Tempura Seabass Fish & Chips
Lemon Herb Chicken Piccata
Sur's Famous Cheese Bread
Sur's Famous French Dip
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Kona Steak Plate
Brussels Sprouts

“10/10 recommend this spot! The food was fantastic and our server, Grant, provided fantastic attention and service the whole evening (even our judgmental Shiba enjoyed him lol). He made sure we were never forgotten while sitting outside, which was especially appreciated. Definitely recommend the Bon Bon dessert too - great taste with even greater presentation. Will absolutely return here again.“

4.3 Superb223 Reviews
Carmel's Hidden Gem Restaurant American •
between 4th and, Mission Street, 5th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Hand Made Porcini Wild Mushroom Ravioli
Country Chicken and Waffles
Jumbo Lump Crab Cake
Fishermans Stew
Bread Pudding
Eggs Benedict
Pancakes

“Wow. Just wow.Let me break it down from the top. The parking, not the best. But I didn’t let that stop us. I knew good things always take a little work, so I was cool with that.The restaurant itself was small, but my gf is also small, and she’s great, so I assumed the same.When we ordered, Me and my gf both got the chicken and waffles. We figured, why not? Right?When it came to the table, it was a pretty big plate. Huge fluffy waffle with a couple thick pieces of chicken. I didn’t know where to start. So I panicked and just dumped the syrup over the whole thing. It was a great idea, which usually doesn’t happen for me so early in the morning. It was amazing. We really enjoyed it, but bummed that we heard it was closing down. Good stuff here“

4.3 Superb214 Reviews
Edwin's Carmel Filipino •
Corner of 6th Avenue &, San Carlos St, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Crispy Island Veggie Rolls
House-Made Crispy Rolls
Local Vegetarian Plate
Singapore Fire Shrimp
Kare Kare Oxtail
Singapore Prawns
Fried Chicken
Seafood Pasta
Island Burger
Ahi Tuna Poke

“An absolute pleasure dining at Edwins. Spectacular live music that makes the dining experience a truly memorable event. We bring our family here at least once a month. We order the big platter and it feeds our family of 6. The ox tail and pork belly are our favorites, but the salmon, prawns, lumpia and fettuccine are also amazing. Honestly, this is our favorite restaurant in Carmel. The layout is simple. The food is amazing, service is amazing. 10 out of 10“

4.1 Good113 Reviews
Village Gem Restaurant American • $$$
Mission Street At 5th Ave Just North of, 5th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Local Greens Spiced Pecans
Basque Cheesecake
Grilled Artichoke
Artisan Bread

“This is a Real Gem a few tables, clean, nicely decorated, the food is always fresh and sources from great places, seasonal, from appetizer to main course Amir and his team are very attentive, friendly and patient. Nice wine list, the home baked bread is so tempting you can't stop eating. The meat and seafood is so fresh and cooked to perfection. A locals secret place always a pleasure to return“

4.3 Superb111 Reviews
Covey Grill American •
8205 Valley Greens Dr, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Frittata
Avocado

“We enjoyed the new interior atmosphere of The Covey. It's softer, warmer and more inviting. Our party of four enjoyed beet and Caesar salads, pastas and the classic hamburger. Our waiter was terrific- he treated us with the professional familiarity appreciated in a club (we are Quail members).“

4.3 Superb89 Reviews
The Grill on Ocean Ave, Carmel by the Sea American • $$
South of Mission 3 SW on, Ocean Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

The Grill Chicken Quesadilla
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Center Cut Pork Chops
The Grill Trio Kabob
Seafood Fettuccine
Chicken Piccata
Shrimp Tandoori
Ahi Poke Tower
Bread and Oil
Fajita Trio

“the portion size for the fajitas was very large, although the taste was pretty average for its price. i enjoyed the clam chowder and onion rings, and the seafood pasta was decent. fantastic service as well. overall, it was a good experience, but maybe i wouldn't come back besides on special occasions.“

4.3 Superb76 Reviews
Jeffrey's Grill & Catering American • $
112 Mid Vly Ctr, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

The not-So-Classic Eggs Benedict with Smoked Salmon and Dill Hollandaise Sauce
Crabcake and Avocado Benedictine
Pulled Pork Huevos Rancheros
Banana Foster French Toast
House Smoked Turkey Hash
Sourdough French Toast
Buttermilk Pancakes
Chorizo Omelette
Crab Benedict

“Jeffreys is such a cute little spot. I love sitting outside there for brunch or lunch, it's so relaxing. The food is super yum and the waitstaff was quick and attentive. I highly recommend the hot chocolate. It was super pretty and yum too!“

4.3 Superb54 Reviews
Pacific's Edge American • $$
120 Highlands Dr, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Pan Seared Alaskan Halibut on Citrus Risotto and Rainbow Carrots
Braised Short Rib Bourguignon
Shareable Gilroy Garlic Fries
Prince Edward Island Mussels
Smoked Salmon Benedict
Calamari Fritto Misto
Burger and Fries
Surf and Turf
Ceviche
Ocean

“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.“

4.2 Good425 Reviews
Mission Ranch Restaurant American • $$$
26270 Dolores St, Carmel-By-The-Sea

“We stayed here 3 nights for our anniversary.April 2024- Highly recommend this property!Such an enchanting experience.. unlike the usual run of the mill places.The dining was exceptional! Halibut & scallops were amazingly prepared and the prices are reasonable. The Sunday brunch on the deck with the fatted sheep grazing in the sun was a wonderful treat.“

4.2 Good306 Reviews
Rio Grill American • $$
101 The, Crossroads Blvd, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Roasted Beet Salad
Burger

“Delicious brunch menu. Had the avocado toast special with poached eggs and chicken vegetable noodle soup. Eggs perfectly poached. Crunchy toast. Very tasty soup filled with chicken and vegetables. Both just yummy. Ended the meal with the lemon meringue tart. Always the best. Our server was polite, efficient, and non intrusive. Can't wait to return.“

4.2 Good273 Reviews
Forge in the Forest New American • $$
Junipero Street & SW Corner of, 5th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream & Fresh Fruit
Grilled Chicken Sandwich
French Onion Soup
Reuben Egg Rolls
French Onion
3 Beet Salad
Cobb Salad
Steak

“The atmosphere outside is really spectacular. They also have plenty of heat lamps for cold nights that help keep customers warm.The food was good, if a bit pricey, but that’s what you get when you travel to Carmel. They also have a secret dog menu for your canine companions. Our dog loved her chicken entree and we brought some of her kibble from home to mix in. It worked out really well!As far as human food, my wife and I ordered from the Italian section of the menu and were satisfied with their flavors and portions. Overall a pleasant experience.“

4.2 Good97 Reviews
Shearwater Tavern American • $$
3665 Rio Rd, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Salmon with Vegetables
Braised Short Rib Skillet
Tavern Burger with Salad
Shearwater Yucca Fries
Buttermilk Pancakes
Parker House Rolls

“We have heard about this place but never tried it. It's tucked away around the side of Carmel Mission Inn but there is lots of parking and its entry is very accessible once you find it! We arrived early on a Friday so it was pretty quiet at first but got busy as happy hour wore on. Our server was very attentive and knowledgeable and gave us excellent dinner suggestions. We came in for the burger so ultimately that's what we had. Definitely the best burger patty I've had in awhile! We'll be back and can update the photos.“

4.2 Good81 Reviews
Edgar's at Quail Lodge American
8000 Valley Greens Dr, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Angus Ribeye Surf N Turf
Pan Seared Sea Scallops
Braised Lamb Shank

“Both food and service were excellent. They had a nice variety of sandwiches, salads, and main dishes for both take-out and dining in their attractive space at the Quail Lodge clubhouse. The outside dining was very nice when the weather was appropriate.“

3.9 Good10 Reviews
Terry's Lounge Lounges • $$
Lincoln St &, 7th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Black Angus Filet Mignon
Sesame Vegetable Salad
Chicken Piccata
Prawn Cocktail
Chicken Salad
Cypress Burger
Quinoa Salad
Club Sandwich

“What a lovely place! I got the Turkey Club with Caesar Salad and my husband got the Veggie Salad. We also shared a nice bottle of Viognier. Everything was perfect. Fantastic value.Inside there is a treasure trove of Doris Day memorabilia and the Inn itself is beautiful. If I could give six stars I would.“

4.1 Good73 Reviews
Village Corner Bistro American • $$
Dolores Street &, 6th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Mediterranean Omelette
Classic Breakfast
Avocado Toast
Avocado

“We had lunch and were seated outside next to a fire pit that made it lovely on a coolish March afternoon. The menu has a great range of options and the service was attentive. Food was just right. We will return.Kid-friendliness: There were high chairs available and kids seem welcome.“

4.1 Good79 Reviews
Links Club Sports Bar • $$$
Ocean Avenue &, Mission St Suite 101, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Pulled Pork Sliders
Featured Flatbread
Sausage Sampler

“This has become our go-to bar in Carmel for great food, phenomenal live music, and an all around good time! Service has been top notch every time I’ve been, and the people here are genuinely kind. I’ve not yet tried the golf simulator stations but they look like a fun unique way to try something new. Oh, and they have the best tacos in town!Vegetarian options: Veggie tacos and salads are great“

4 Good39 Reviews
The Crossroads BBQ Barbecue • $
241 Crossroads Blvd, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Quarter Pound of Brisket and Toast
Tri Tip and Links Combo
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Brisket Sandwich
Tri Tip Sandwich
BBQ Sandwiches
Mac and Cheese
BBQ Pork Ribs
Pint of Beans
Garlic Bread

“What this hole-in-the wall kind-of place lacks in atmosphere it makes up for in its food. I’m surprised at some of the very negative reviews. I had brisket, tri tips, mac n cheese and beans. Meat was tender, juicy and served hot. Sides were good. Other reviewers might have a point in terms of lack of smoked flavour on the meats but I would sacrifice that over the tender and juiciness.“

4 Good70 Reviews
Carmel Belle Cafe • $
San Carlos St, Ocean Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Open-Faced Avocado with McEvoy Ranch Olive Oil & Sea Salt on Country Toast
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Avocado Toast
Salad

“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.“

4 Good75 Reviews
Carmel Burger Bar Hamburger • $$
106 Mission St, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Cheeseburger and Fries
Thick Cut Onion Rings
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Korean Fried Chicken
Portabella Burger
Coconut Shrimp
Poblano Burger
Korean Chicken
French Fries
Bison Burger

“We sat outdoors and got the heat lamp for warmth..little chilly the day we went.The con was the mimosa drink..If I knew the mimosa was going to be in a big glass but the portion was 2 sips. I would have got a different drink. Very tacky. Other than that the food was good. The service was great.“

4 Good126 Reviews
The Valley Kitchen American • $$$
1 Old Ranch Rd, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Garlic Bread

“Lovely atmosphere near the lobby of Carmel Valley Ranch main lodge. It has some great views of the golf course and valley , surrounded by oak trees- classic Carmel Valley. We ate here three different times, twice for breakfast and once for dinner. The service was top notch. Food came out promptly. For breakfast the options looked delicious, but we had the oatmeal and granola / yogurt which are a healthy hit with the kids and our family. For dinner, kids menu hit the spot - good grilled cheese and hotdog :) I had the salmon which was a bit plain - not particularly seasoned but the kimchi rice was really good. Probably would order something else next time but it was nicely plated and tasted good.“

3.9 Good63 Reviews
River Ranch Café American • $
1 Old Ranch Rd, Carmel-By-The-Sea

“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!“

3.8 Good67 Reviews
Seventh & Dolores Steak House
7th Avenue &, Dolores St, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Half Dozen Pacific Oysters
Valrhona Chocolate Terrine
Goat Cheese Beignets
14 Oz New York Strip
1200° Onion Soup
Rack of Lamb
The Burger

“Made a reservation for an outside table but they sat us inside because it was potentially going to rain. We also selected that we were celebrating a birthday on the reservation and they didn't acknowledge this so we didn't say anything. You're gunna have to let them know in person. The playlist here it was IMPECCABLE!!! Lots of great vibey music. I started off with a Virgin Margarita which was very tasty and delightful. Hubby ordered a smoked old fashioned which came out in a glass cover that when removed it was quite literally smoking! He said he liked it. We tried the pan seared Octopus in a coconut curry sauce which was a great consistency but a bit in the salty side. I still enjoyed it. I ordered the Bone-In Rib Eye which was a LOT of meat but also a LOT of fat. Very flavorful. Cooked perfectly (asked for medium rare) not too salty. The side I paired it with was the mushrooms and pear onions. I can't recommend this enough! And if you're not into mushrooms you've got to try the Brussels Sprouts in a miso sauce! They're to die for. Everything had a nice little char to it. Took a while but that is how you know it's good. All good things take time. We were a bit full so we did not order desserts but if you come here on your birthday you get a cool firework candle. The bill ended up being about $400 but honestly it was all worth it because the ingredients were high quality and our server was knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the menu making it a really memorable experience here. Next time I want to splurge I will most likely return“

3.6 Good95 Reviews
Tuck Box Coffee & Tea • $
Dolores Street btwn Ocean & 7th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict
Tuck Box Eggs Benedict
Benedict and Waffle
Egg Breakfast
Scone
Tea

“This fairy tale house in the heart of Carmel serves wonder breakfast every day. We greatly enjoyed eggs Beni, omelette and oats. And home made orange jam was delicious.Kid-friendliness: Hard to imagine a better breakfast venue than a fairy tale house.“

3.5 Good77 Reviews
Hog's Breath Inn American • $$
San Carlos St, Carmel-By-The-Sea

Customers` Favorites

Bowl of Boston Clam Chowder
Dirty Harry Burger
Crispy Calamari
Hogs Ale Delish
Artichoke Soup
Ahi Tuna Poke
Fish & Chips
Seafood Pasta
Onion Rings
Hamburger

“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.“

3.8 Good304 Reviews
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