15 Best Wine Bars in Carmel By The Sea

“Amazing wine and atmosphere“

“Wow, this is probably my favorite tasting room in Carmel by the sea. I’ve tried a half a dozen and this one is the friendliest and the most generous and knowledgeable. I think it’s the first tasting room that was in Carmel by the sea. Janet was behind the counter telling stories and is very knowledgeable about all the wines and the other things to do in the area.“

“We stopped into Shale Canyon Wines for a tasting without knowing what to expect, and Elise completely made the experience. My boyfriend doesn’t even like red wine, so when we realized the tasting was all reds, we were honestly hesitant. But Elise made us feel comfortable, excited, and open to trying everything — and now he’s officially converted.

The wines were incredible. We ended up buying multiple bottles of the Zinfandel and Syrah. Elise explained the philosophy of the winery so well — the accessibility, the sustainability, the purpose behind the wines — and it resonated deeply with both of us. She was kind, easy to talk to, and incredibly knowledgeable. A truly memorable tasting, thanks entirely to her.“

“We came in on a saturday afternoon and were able to find a table right away! The Bar side of the restaurant has happy hour every day from 4-6pm and their small plates and pizzas were on the food list! Their cocktails were all 8 dollars and house wines 7 dollars. We ate and each had a drink for under 40 dollars which seems absurd in Carmel! Not only affordable but the food was to die for! We had the Truffle Gnocchi which was easily the best gnocchi I've ever had and the White Truffle Pie was so fresh and full of mushrooms and onions! Dipping the crust in the leftover gnocchi sauce put it over the edge! Isabel was our server and she was kind and quick with everything! It was a wonderful little stop in Carmel, just off Ocean Ave!“

“I’m not sure who was happier between my dog and myself at Scratch’s tasting room. All the wines were absolutely delicious, and the service was phenomenal. My dog also got the VIP treatment enjoying treats and a complimentary bandana. One of my favorite tasting rooms in Carmel Valley.“

“Great foods and great friends !“

“Absolutely fantastic restaurant and a breath of fresh air in the Carmel culinary community. The food was incredible and the service was top notch. The space is refreshingly chic and relaxing. The tables are spaced apart to allow for conversation and there's no rush to finish your meal. You are encouraged to linger and enjoy the best meal in Carmel!“

“We enjoyed cocktails and wine at Bud’s during our stay at LaPlaya last weekend!“

“one of the best in Carmel...“

“Amazing food with even more amazing service. Highly recommend for your special night out!“

“Chef Todd’s menu is awesome here and you can’t go wrong with anything! The BLT is my favorite right now and the beer selection is the best around with many local brews as well as cool things like Pliny on tap! Parker has also put together a really good wine selection from around the world with some killer value offerings!“

“This is our second time eating at Il Tegamino, and both times it was absolutely delicious. It is definitely a step up from your basic Italian American cooking. The pacchieri in ragu sauce was the winner, but everyone enjoyed the other items we got. The service is very attentive. Both times we ate outside. But because the terrace is all enclosed and with the space heaters, we were perfectly comfortable, even at the end of January. This place is a hidden gem in a town of frequently overpriced and mediocre restaurants, catering to tourists. “

“Amazing food. Amazing atmosphere and wonderful service.“

“Route 1 was closed and I had to return to Carmel from Big Sur and took Freeway 101 instead. So another pasta at Portabella! Always going back for it.“

“Great food service and atmosphere“