Restaurants in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Best Restaurants
“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).”
New American • $$$$
“Aubergine is the best fine dining experience in Carmel-by-the-Sea. The food, presentation, ambience, and service are all of the highest caliber and well-deserving of the recognition earned by this restaurant. Aubergine was more than accommodating of my personal request for plant-based options in lieu of their traditional prix fixe menu, and they exceeded my expectations. I would have to travel to New York to another world-renowned restaurant to receive the same level of consideration and experience a similar level of culinary excellence. My wife was able to enjoy the traditional prix fixe menu options while I was thrilled by the creativity of the kitchen. She informed me later that this was the first time Aubergine had catered to a complete plant-based course for dinner. Absolutely magnifique. We were also introduced to a terrific Sauternes by the sommelier, a novelty we hadn't explored before, but now embrace. Thank you to Chef Cogley and the entire staff for making our visit so memorable. We will return. John and Rhona”
“The most amazing restaurant in Carmel! My husband and I were celebrating our 5th wedding anniversary and he made reservations at Le Soufflé. I had no idea where we were going. I loved the pre-set menu. You get to pick a starter, a main course and a dessert! Everything was amazing! Taste wise and ambiance wise! Our server was very knowledgeable on the menu and gave us great recommendations. I had the salad with pears and hazelnuts, the mushroom soufflé and the passion fruit and mango dessert! Everything was excellent!”
“Wild mushroom Pizza was delicious, oysters fresh, wine list was good. Service was good but we expected more of a Michelin star restaurant. Recommended when in Carmel. Busy, a reservation is highly recommended.”
Mexican • $$
“Amazing food with lots of different options to try, like grasshoppers. The chef is vegan, and there are lots of options for all types, carnivore, vegetarian, and vegan. Very unique and well paired flavors.Vegetarian options: Really amazing vegetarian options and flavors”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“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.”
“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.”
“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).”
New American • $$$$
“Aubergine is the best fine dining experience in Carmel-by-the-Sea. The food, presentation, ambience, and service are all of the highest caliber and well-deserving of the recognition earned by this restaurant. Aubergine was more than accommodating of my personal request for plant-based options in lieu of their traditional prix fixe menu, and they exceeded my expectations. I would have to travel to New York to another world-renowned restaurant to receive the same level of consideration and experience a similar level of culinary excellence. My wife was able to enjoy the traditional prix fixe menu options while I was thrilled by the creativity of the kitchen. She informed me later that this was the first time Aubergine had catered to a complete plant-based course for dinner. Absolutely magnifique. We were also introduced to a terrific Sauternes by the sommelier, a novelty we hadn't explored before, but now embrace. Thank you to Chef Cogley and the entire staff for making our visit so memorable. We will return. John and Rhona”
“Wild mushroom Pizza was delicious, oysters fresh, wine list was good. Service was good but we expected more of a Michelin star restaurant. Recommended when in Carmel. Busy, a reservation is highly recommended.”
Mexican • $$
“Amazing food with lots of different options to try, like grasshoppers. The chef is vegan, and there are lots of options for all types, carnivore, vegetarian, and vegan. Very unique and well paired flavors.Vegetarian options: Really amazing vegetarian options and flavors”
“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.”
Coffee & Tea • $$
“While we came in for a simple coffee and cake, the staff and owner, Anthony, were exceptional at service and quality.HIGHLY RECCOMEND for dinner!Kid-friendliness: Highly accommodating to children and toddlers.”
“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.”
“After navigating to the side door to get in, all was fantastic. I feel lucky to have found an off night at this amazing place. Crispy potatoes and polenta was outstanding. Torn between a handful of great steak picks, I opted for the filet with blue cheese, grilled to medium rare perfection. Very nice server and friendly bartender. A truly great dining experience. The only suggestion would be to dim the light for the back room behind the bar. It is quite blaring when someone goes in/out. Otherwise, would have enjoyed a gelato or something cinnamon as a light treat after.”
“The food was absolutely delicious and tasted just like Italy! The wait stuff was terrific and it was a great atmosphere! We had the baked artichoke app, meatballs app, garlic bread, and homemade pasta with bolognese!”
“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.”
“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.”
“Nestled in the heart Carmel-By-The-Bay in a residential area (meaning parking can be challenging), "L'Escargot" transports diners on a culinary voyage of French cuisine. From the moment you step inside, you're enveloped in an ambiance that evokes the romance and sophistication of the French capital, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.The moment we were seated, we were greeted warmly by the staff, who exuded the elegance and hospitality synonymous with French culture. The restaurant's intimate setting, adorned with subtle decorations, created an atmosphere that was both inviting and refined.For the apps, one standout was the escargot, served in a garlic and herb butter sauce. The snails were tender and succulent, with each bite offering a burst of flavor that lingered on the palate. The Duck Leg and Foie Gras was equally impressive, although we would've preferred more bread than just two small corner pieces. The French Onion soup is a must try. The caramelized onions, lovingly sautéed to perfection, impart a depth of flavor that is both sweet and savory, setting the stage for a culinary journey like no other.For the main course, our favorite (in order) was their Beef Wellington, Duck two way, Seared Scallop Risotto and the shredded rabbit pasta. I've had Gordon Ramsay version of Beef Wellington, but what's different about this one is the golden pastry shell that enrobes it, providing a crisp, flaky exterior that gives way to tender perfection with each bite that's not too salty. The Seared Scallop Risotto was a bit of a miss with the Risotto as it was missing the crunch, but the Scallop was seared to perfection that melts in your mouth.No French meal would be complete without a decadent dessert. Our favorite was the Lemon Tart, follow by the warm Apple Crisp with a scoop of ice cream, and a home made cheesecake.The service was, with attentive waitstaff ensuring that our sparkling water glasses were never empty and our needs were always met with a smile.”
Outdoor Dining
“The most amazing restaurant in Carmel! My husband and I were celebrating our 5th wedding anniversary and he made reservations at Le Soufflé. I had no idea where we were going. I loved the pre-set menu. You get to pick a starter, a main course and a dessert! Everything was amazing! Taste wise and ambiance wise! Our server was very knowledgeable on the menu and gave us great recommendations. I had the salad with pears and hazelnuts, the mushroom soufflé and the passion fruit and mango dessert! Everything was excellent!”
“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.”
“Super cool local brewery. We discovered this place a few weeks ago because we had dinner plans nearby. The owner, Joseph, was super nice and took great care of us. They have a variety of beers and we tried a flight! This is a nice place to go if you want to have some beer without the crowds!”
“Nestled in the heart Carmel-By-The-Bay in a residential area (meaning parking can be challenging), "L'Escargot" transports diners on a culinary voyage of French cuisine. From the moment you step inside, you're enveloped in an ambiance that evokes the romance and sophistication of the French capital, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.The moment we were seated, we were greeted warmly by the staff, who exuded the elegance and hospitality synonymous with French culture. The restaurant's intimate setting, adorned with subtle decorations, created an atmosphere that was both inviting and refined.For the apps, one standout was the escargot, served in a garlic and herb butter sauce. The snails were tender and succulent, with each bite offering a burst of flavor that lingered on the palate. The Duck Leg and Foie Gras was equally impressive, although we would've preferred more bread than just two small corner pieces. The French Onion soup is a must try. The caramelized onions, lovingly sautéed to perfection, impart a depth of flavor that is both sweet and savory, setting the stage for a culinary journey like no other.For the main course, our favorite (in order) was their Beef Wellington, Duck two way, Seared Scallop Risotto and the shredded rabbit pasta. I've had Gordon Ramsay version of Beef Wellington, but what's different about this one is the golden pastry shell that enrobes it, providing a crisp, flaky exterior that gives way to tender perfection with each bite that's not too salty. The Seared Scallop Risotto was a bit of a miss with the Risotto as it was missing the crunch, but the Scallop was seared to perfection that melts in your mouth.No French meal would be complete without a decadent dessert. Our favorite was the Lemon Tart, follow by the warm Apple Crisp with a scoop of ice cream, and a home made cheesecake.The service was, with attentive waitstaff ensuring that our sparkling water glasses were never empty and our needs were always met with a smile.”
“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.”
“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!”
Vietnamese • $
“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.”
“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.”
“After navigating to the side door to get in, all was fantastic. I feel lucky to have found an off night at this amazing place. Crispy potatoes and polenta was outstanding. Torn between a handful of great steak picks, I opted for the filet with blue cheese, grilled to medium rare perfection. Very nice server and friendly bartender. A truly great dining experience. The only suggestion would be to dim the light for the back room behind the bar. It is quite blaring when someone goes in/out. Otherwise, would have enjoyed a gelato or something cinnamon as a light treat after.”
“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!”
“The food was absolutely delicious and tasted just like Italy! The wait stuff was terrific and it was a great atmosphere! We had the baked artichoke app, meatballs app, garlic bread, and homemade pasta with bolognese!”
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.”
Asian Fusion • $$
“Pangea is one of my favorite restaurants because the menu has something for everyone. The food is delicious, prepared with high quality ingredients, and is well-priced for our area. The service is attentive and professional, great bar! The only issue I had was that my father is hard of hearing and the ambient noise is moderately loud, had a hard time hearing him recount how he has been dining in that location for 50 years, under restaurant names like the Butcher Shop and the Jolly Roger. I wanted to better hear those stories. Not sure there is a fix. Otherwise, the vibe there is fun and vibrant. Love the cherry blossom art!”
“Exceptional flavors in the vegetarian dishes that make you polish the plates although portion sizes are a bit on the smaller side. The butternut squash ravioli is a must have! In addition to the food, the wonderful hospitality and ambience makes this a great experience.Vegetarian options: Butternut squash ravioli”
“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.”
American • $$$
“A little hard to find, but worth it. Very dog friendly... brought water, treats, and a bed. Extensive and interesting breakfast menu. Excellent hash and eggs (ask for a little crispy on the hand cut corn beef. Great service.”
“Our family was in town on Easter Weekend so we stopped by Rise & Roam Bakery and Pizzeria and so glad we did everything we ordered was delicious!! We had pizza, tomato bisque soup, ceasar salad all so good. It’s an added bonus that the restaurant has a wonderful bakery and great coffee next door!! The almond croissant was AMAZING!”
“Had such a great time at a wine tasting /cooking class with Chef Justin. He is amazing with some of the simplest ingredients. We made flat bread Great ambiance, fun, great wine selection. Highly recommend!!!!”
“I love love love Scratch! This is my favorite place to come for a glass or two on my day off. There's always good music, welcoming staff, and a gorgeous environment to unwind and enjoy delicious wine!! The tasting room manager Maria is always so sweet and attentive, and Sabrine the owner is such a genuine, kind person to chat with when you're lucky enough to run into her. All of the wine is amazing, but the C-47 line is out of this world. They also always have fun events like Drag Bingo & Wine Paw-ty with adoptable dogs to meet! Definitely a fun place to check out, I highly recommend!!”
“What a View, this place is awesome, the Pacific Edge was great too, we had some appetizers & dinner, we went here for my wife's birthday with our dear friends, was a great evening, good dinners, good drinks, good desserts, and a wonderful atmosphere.”
“I've been going to the Rio Grill when the 1/2 smoked chicken was $10 (now $32 and still worth every penny). Kelly was our server, and was an excellent, thoughtful, and polite. We look forward to returning soon. Thank you.”
Italian • $$$
“This is a hidden gem you will find in Carmel downtown. The food was really delicious in addition to its cozy atmosphere. The brother of the chef took our order, who was very gentle and detailed, gave us excellent recommendations and descriptions. Oh don't forget to try their deserts!!”
“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!”
Brewpubs • $$
“We've been to the brewpub in Monterey, so this time we went to the Carmel-by the-Sea location. Started off with the Papas Bravas and a Sippin' Cookies Stout. For dinner, we split the Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich with a side of garlic fries and green salad. Delicious from start to finish.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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!”
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!”
“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! ??”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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”
“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! ?”
“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 !”
Coffee Shops • $
“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.”
“Ok we went back. I am adding a star. This is because although it wasn't perfect, it def hit the spot. It was also good warmed up the next day. This is what we got this time. Sesame beef- this is all beef no onions or other fillers. It is breaded and a little tough, but was very good warmed up the next day Tommy special chow mein- too salty, but overall not bad Potstickers- not my favorite filling. Not bad. Walnut shrimp- amazing. Served with orange slices. Sweet and sour pork- mushy but a good flavor We went later in the day this time and the place was empty. Also, we were treated by a kind gentleman.”
“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).”
American • $$
“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.”
“An employee working there has 17 years in that location.. everything he makes is made with gratitude and appreciation with love from within.Vegetarian options: All veggie subs availableDietary restrictions: Dietary restrictions are accommodated if applicableParking: Park in front or around the corner. No parking problemsKid-friendliness: As far as I know. Children are welcome!”
“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.”
“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.”
Asian Fusion • $$
“Pangea is one of my favorite restaurants because the menu has something for everyone. The food is delicious, prepared with high quality ingredients, and is well-priced for our area. The service is attentive and professional, great bar! The only issue I had was that my father is hard of hearing and the ambient noise is moderately loud, had a hard time hearing him recount how he has been dining in that location for 50 years, under restaurant names like the Butcher Shop and the Jolly Roger. I wanted to better hear those stories. Not sure there is a fix. Otherwise, the vibe there is fun and vibrant. Love the cherry blossom art!”
Cheap Eats
“One of the best mocha!! They also serve really good gelato. Friends tried cappuccino and that was amazing as well. This is slightly on the pricier side but I guess that’s true for all the shops around. Liked the cool and calm atmosphere.”
“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 ☕️”
“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.”
“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!”
“Visited for a quick bite with very hungry munchkins. We got picnic baskets for the kids. All of us absolutely loved the food, the quality of service and the speed. Also very fair pricing! One of the best deli experiences ever. Thank you!Kid-friendliness: The little picnic baskets are absolutely perfect for children. They loved carrying their picnic boxes just like grown-ups!”
“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.”
“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!!!!”
“Fast and friendly and efficient service. Multiple people working on orders simultaneously. I had a few different delicious omelette bagel sandwiches and I would recommend them all.”
“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.”
“Always great. I only get the burgers. They do burgers & fries very well. Completely satisfied every time. Shakes are great too. I prefer booth seating to the small metal chairs. Service is good, especially once they know your usual order. Haha.”
“Their spring menu had lavender drinks and I was in love with the Lavender Haze drink. YUMMM. Not too sweet and a good good-morning drink. Pastries were fresh (had the hot cross bun) and was the perfect complement to my warm drink. Plenty of parking, cute shopping center, and friendly/prompt staff.”
“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.”
“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.”
“Chose this place randomly as it was close to highway 1. Food was very much like my wife's Chinese Mom's cooking! Not too much sauces to mask or add flavor to the main ingredients. You'll get the true taste of the food. Not great tasting place as other chinese that add too much sauces and MSG or additives. All these additives make you feel you are eating the best chinese food. Healthy eats here with China Delight!. I'm fairly certain that not much is added in the cooking besides the meat and/or vegetables. Meaning you'll get Good Tasting Chinese dishes without all the additives especially MSG. I didnt ask the server but i'm fairly certain they don't add MSG because I always get thirsty after eating MSG chinese food. If a restaurant adds too much MSG I always get a dull headache. I don't know the history of this restaurant but I hope they'll still be there on our next trip to Carmel for some good tasting and good for you Chinese food!”
“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.”
“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.”
“Exceptional flavors in the vegetarian dishes that make you polish the plates although portion sizes are a bit on the smaller side. The butternut squash ravioli is a must have! In addition to the food, the wonderful hospitality and ambience makes this a great experience.Vegetarian options: Butternut squash ravioli”
“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!”
“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.”
“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.”
“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 !”
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.”
“Awesome ambiance and the staff were incredible. Sommelier Andy was very knowledgeable, and they made my girlfriend’s birthday incredibly special. Food left a little to be desired though.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
Seafood • $$
“I found this amazing place by calling and speaking with the owner who was so kind and welcoming. As someone with celiac disease and a dairy allergy, eating out often leaves you one or two options on a menu. Not here. In over a decade of eating gluten and dairy free I have NEVER seen a larger GF menu. They have a gluten free fryer and so many options. Sandra, our amazing server, not only explained how things were kept and prepared safely and went over everything we could have, she made suggestions which were phenomenal. I wish I could give 6 stars for Sandra’s service alone!! Will definitely be making a trip back with some friends just for a meal here.”
“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.”
“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”
“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.”
Italian • $$$
“This is a hidden gem you will find in Carmel downtown. The food was really delicious in addition to its cozy atmosphere. The brother of the chef took our order, who was very gentle and detailed, gave us excellent recommendations and descriptions. Oh don't forget to try their deserts!!”
“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!”
“Their spring menu had lavender drinks and I was in love with the Lavender Haze drink. YUMMM. Not too sweet and a good good-morning drink. Pastries were fresh (had the hot cross bun) and was the perfect complement to my warm drink. Plenty of parking, cute shopping center, and friendly/prompt staff.”
“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.”
“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.”