“This is the best place to take kids for dinner without ruining other people's Carmel getaway ?. The ambiance and service is still impeccable, but it's relatively easy to get a reservation and the food comes out quickly so you could be done with dinner in 1-1.5hrs (for better or worse, depending on what you're looking for).“
“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.“
“Amazing restaurant here in Monterey! Fantastic atmosphere and delicious food. Excellent service! Love it! Make sure you make reservation cause this place is packed and definitely a hidden gem! Loved they could make me a personalized drink on my request and I definitely appreciated it. We will be back!“
“Nice little wine bar with small bites in the Cannery Row area. They had some nice wine choices and beers. Charcuterie and flatbreads and other snacks. Wine flights in test tubes which looked a bit bizarre but was popular! Good service with only one person working when I went. I went with a glass of their Brut which was slightly sweet for me , and their sourdough pretzel with Dijon mustard. The pretzel was nice and warm and the mustard had a great kick. Nice little gifts available too. I liked that it had groups and just solos having a glass of vino at the end of the day. Cozy feel.“
“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.“
“I stopped in in early afternoon to enjoy some afternoon wine, and it did not disappoint. The wine was delicious. I did the Taser and then had a glass of one of my favorites. The waitress was amazing and the live music was an added bonus definitely a spot I will go back to.“
“Little Napoli is a pretty nice Italian spot in Carmel. The service is pretty solid, the food is good, and the setting is quite nice.One thing I’d definitely recommend is to get a reservation, though. Me and my girlfriend were able to get a seat, but only at the open bar, after waiting for some people to leave.It was a bit stressful, but it was still nice to grab a bite to eat here.“
“Vibes were immaculate, loved the wine tasting flight that gave you the option of choosing any 4 curated wines, and happy hour deal was great too!Paige introduced the wines to us patiently and was so friendly - the Chardonnay Paige recommended was absolutely amazing, and the space was full of board games and good energy. Would definitely visit again!“
Wine Bar • $$
“Enjoyed a nice afternoon @ "A Taste of Monterey"! Whether you come for the food & wine, or just wonderful wines...make it a definite visit. I'm sure they can be busy (so check on a reservation), but we were lucky enough to walk right in. Attached is a view from our seats.“
“More casual than romantic, but we came in to wine down & rest. Don't worry on having to come in dressy, the tastings were delicious & bottles are affordable, we bought one that was a Chaucer's mead. Great spot to kick back & relax if you've been walking a while. Better to visit with your spouse or a friend, the spot is small & cozy!“
“We've been going to Galante Vineyards Tasting Room for as long as I can remember, 2009 I believe, when my wife and I barely started dating. It is a must-stop for us every time we set foot in the beautiful seaside town of Carmel. It has a special place in our heart because it is the tasting room that graduated us from cocktails and got us seriously into wine drinking so many moons ago. We drank a lot of wine during our dating years, mostly grocery store wines (Cupcake gives us fond memories, lol) and a glass here or there at restaurants, but we had no idea about the art or science behind winemaking and tasting. Galante Vineyards produces bold red wine, with occasional chardonnay and sauvignon blanc offerings. So if you love bold reds or bold red blends, then you owe yourself a visit to Galante Vinyeards Tasting Room! Our personal favorites are their Legacy (now a red blend I believe), Black Jack Pasture and Red Rose Hill cabernet sauvignon. We met many pourers throughout the course of a decade, all knowledgeable, personable and the patrons there are always a hoot and a holler! Janet signed us up for the Trail Boss wine club membership back in January of 2021 and we've stayed as members ever since. The tasting area is dog and kid friendly, as long as you keep your eyes on them. Our dogs always enjoy the outdoor area, because they get so much attention from Janet and nearby patrons! Too bad we can't just drive up the coast from L.A. and visit the tasting room these days since we recently moved to Texas. But we still enjoy our wine club shipments from Galante twice a year. We hope to visit y'all again soon! Maybe sooner than we think!“
“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.“
“After having lunch at Roy's on a Saturday and hung out at the lounge outside of Roy's, we were ready to head home. Then, we saw Stave's sign and they were open! I sounded surprised because we never had a chance seeing them open. They open at 2p and we usually leave before that time. My husband loves wine so he had to go in and check it out. Most of the time, wine cellar stores like this don't carry decent selections. But Stave's selections blew my husband's mind. He said majority of their selections are decent and priced reasonably, which it's rare to see nowadays. So we decided to stay and open a bottle of wine that interested him. We also ordered their cheeseboard, which they said we can get more breads if we want. My toddler was a fan of their cheese and bread, she finished most of them. Steven was the gentleman who served us. He was friendly, attentive and patient. After I checked in on Yelp, there was this 10% promotion popped up. I showed it to one of the staffs, and she said they have new promotion of 15% off now - even better! Of course my husband had to get some. We ended up getting additional 6 bottles with the 15% off promotion. Loved our experience there. We enjoyed the atmosphere, the service, the selections. Nothing we can complain. Amazing experience and highly recommended for all wine lovers.“
“My wife and I were recently in the area, and stopped by to check this place out. It was close to closing time, but they still served us. There was only one person working there, and overall it was a short but sweet experience. We went home with the Rosé which was pretty yummy! If we are ever in the area, I would totally swing by again.“
“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.“
“The hole in the wall is located on the wharf. Walk down stairs and it's right on the water. The initial impression I got wasn't great. Standing and waiting for several mins awkwardly as multiple people passed by who work there, not even a quick greeting or acknowledgment. A very busy, quick talking woman came rushing our way at some point and whisked us away to a table. The view was beautiful. The ocean, the boats, the weather. Fairly quickly we did get served. Trying the fresh halibut special, it did. It disappoint. Deliciously encrusted with pecan and bread crumbs, a creamy mango sauce. My other half opted for the salmon, also fresh and delicious. The overall observation and interaction is that this is a locally owned establishment with a great reputation of the locals and tourist drift in and out.“
“Everything was simply fantastic! Our high standards were exceeded. This has got to be the best restaurant in Monterey. From the service to the food to the ambiance - there is nothing that left us wanting more. You can truly feel the love the owners and staff put into their work.“
“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 visited this establishment during my weekly sojourn to the Monterey Farmers Marketplace...I walked in to this beautifully designed tasting room with white quartz counter tops...the gentleman who was pouring the wine was quite knowledgeable and friendly...the wine was incredible especially the pinot noir...I joined the wine club on the spot...over the weekend...I headed to their Carmel Valley tasting room with a friend.. again...incredible hospitality was extended to us by Lyle...and the same incredible wine was enjoyed...they have several other wines to choose from...but I save myself for the several pinots from different years. What a truly memorable experience...p.s. I understand that they also have a tasting room in Carmel by the Sea...so there is no excuse not to visit...in vino veritas!“
“We had a great birthday celebration here for one of our friends. It's becoming a tradition since it's the 3rd time we've celebrated his birthday here. Food is always on point! If you want traditional German food, this is THE place to go. Goulash, cream of broccoli soup, and a pea/potato/sausage soup was all enjoyed by our group. Our group ordered the following: Hausplatte, Claudia‘s Hausschnitzel, Zigeunerschnitzel (pictured), Jaegerschnitzel, Stammtischschnitzel, and their vegetarian plate. And copious amounts of German beer!They are a family run business and they just celebrated 32 years! Reservations only.“
“Garlic Roasted Mushroomsthey were okay I wish they were dripping in garlic butter.Almost PalomaTequila Blanco, lime juice, house-made grapefruit shrubTastes exactly like a good Paloma but without the fizz of soda. Would recommendSnake River Farms Wagyu Eye of RibeyeGrilled over almond wood, duck fat fried marble potatoes, charred onion, huckleberry demi-glaceJust get it because it's that good melt in your mouth seriously, but pro move ask for a little salt to sprinkle on top it will enhance the flavors truly.Jumbo Lump Blue Crab CakesPan-seared, apple-carrot slaw, pomegranate seeds, pomegranate reductionGood, but it is sweet, I would have preferred it a little more with savory notes but I recommend it because it's a really fresh take on the crab cakeMiso Glazed Pork BellyPickled apple arugula salad, garlic chili oilThis I would order again and double it.. soo good. The salad was absolutely refreshing paired well with the rich tender pork belly. I was so mesmerized.Olo Ranch Braised Beef Short RibConfit of cherry tomatoes, vegetable sauteed spinach, pommes puree, pan jusTender TENDER TENDER I recommend ordering this everytime you go.Parking: Parking is extremely limited we were lucky enough to find parking in the parking garage for free in the evening. we drove around for about 10 min until we lucked out.“
Wine Bars • $$$
“Impeccable service from our arrival until we left. We were never rushed, always catered to and our waiter was exceptional. Filet mignon was perfect as was the lobster bisque soup. A true dining experience for anyone that wants to be pampered.“
“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.“
New American • $$
“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.“
“After learning Le Bicylette had a 1.5 hour wait on a Sunday, we peeked down the little alley way and allowed ourselves to be enticed to select an outdoor table for a delicious pizza lunch. Started with the Cesar salad (extra anchovies!) followed by the Pepe Board. The four of us then split two pizzas, the San Vito and the Diavola. Took home the last 3 slices for lunch the next day. Charming patio! Definitely worth a return.“
“Whenever we are in Monterey this is a must stop. We really enjoy the outside patio, it’s always a thrill when a jet landing at the nearby airport buzzes the parking lot.This time for lunch I had a fried chicken sandwich and my wife had fish and chips. We started out with calamari but there was a mixup with the timing and the plates came out before the app. The manager came out and said they would re-make the plates when we were ready rather than park them under a heat lamp. That was really a nice touch.“
“To be clear, there is no food, it's just drinks. However I love the location, the ambiance, and said drinks. They put care into creating these recipes, and just as much care into making them. Service is wonderful, and the live music is great. Be prepared to put some money down for drinks, average price off happy hour for the drinks is in the neighborhood of 16 bucks. We spent about 80ish bucks for two drinks each between my wife and I.“
“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.“
“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.“
Wine Bar • $$
“This is the best restaurant that I have EVER been to in the WORLD! I've eaten in Paris, London and Rome! The food was simply amazing, and very flavorful. But the cherry on top was the outstanding service! Everyone was very attentive to our needs, very kind and GENUINE! I asked our waiter about the chef who then offered him to come say hi to us! We had to personally thank the chef for how amazing our food was!“
“This place is now called Spotted Duck. (I wonder when TripAdvisor will pick up on this). It was our first time and we were early. I had the halibut special with a Bernardus Sauv blanc. It came sitting on some black rice, topped with lobster pieces, arugula, and some cubed watermelon. There was some kind of green sauce spread on the plate to compliment the dish. It was pretty. The flavors came together very well. I thought it was a great dinner main. My husband had the sautéed rock cod with artichokes, puréed potatoes, and capers with some brown butter sauce. He said his fish was salty but at least it was offset by the bland potatoes and vinegared artichokes. We shared some beignets with salted honey on the side for dessert. The rosemary sugar coating was good enough for me. But my husband enjoyed the salted honey. Our service was great. Our server was congenial, attentive and patient. He was quite informative too. All in all a pleasant meal. Maybe we will try the duck next time.“