Anton & Michel
in the Court of Fountains,
Mission Street between Ocean & Seventh avenues, Carmel
(831) 624-2406
This Carmel culinary landmark is considered the Peninsula’s most beautiful and romantic restaurant — a hallmark blend of Old World elegance and modern charm. Chef Mark Simpson, who combines traditional fare with lighter and more flavorful sauces, guides the distinctive and artistic flair of creative Continental-California cuisine. There is graciousness in this service-intensive establishment and a genuine desire to please, along with an award-winning wine list, making Anton & Michel “probably the best dining experience in downtown Carmel.” (Wine Spectator). Private parties and wedding receptions are a specialty. Reservations suggested.
Bistro Giovanni Ristorante Mediterraneo
San Carlos Street between Fifth & Sixth avenues, Carmel
(831) 626-6003
Just a quick stroll from Ocean Avenue, across from KRML jazz radio and the Clint Eastwood building. It’s the kind of bistro experience you rarely find. Come and be treated like part of the family. Serving lunch and dinner, and offering Italian, Mediterranean, and California fare. Appetizers, salads, fresh pasta, “Pizzettas,” as well as the famous Bistro Ribs, rack of lamb, osso bucco and only the finest certified Angus prime steaks. With a wine list and service to match. Experience the essence of Carmel at Bistro Giovanni.
Cafe Fina
47 Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey
(831) 372-5200
When dining on Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf, look for Cafe Fina to provide you with the freshest seafood around. Whether it is salmon or halibut barbecued over the mesquite grill or housemade crab ravioli with pesto cream, you will be quick to discover one of Monterey’s local favorites. Owner Dominic Mercurio invites you to try either of these dishes for lunch or dinner, or choose from the many veal, beef, chicken, or pasta dishes that make Cafe Fina a wonderful dining experience. The spectacular waterfront view is just icing on the cake!
The Chart House
444 Cannery Row, Monterey
(831) 372-3362
Since 1961, The Chart House has been a classic destination for diners, whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual dinner. Known for breathtaking views of Monterey Bay, as well as exceptional service, the Chart House will make any dining experience memorable. The boundless menu features only the freshest fish available, as well as choice beef dishes that will satisfy the cravings of any palate. The restaurant offers an array of divine desserts, including the famous Hot Chocolate Lava Cake — the perfect finish to any meal.
da Giovanni Ristorante Mediterraneo
Lincoln Street between Fifth & Sixth avenues, Carmel
(upstairs, with elevator access)
(831) 626-5800
Loved by the locals, and visitors who seek a dining experience like no other, da Giovanni is a Carmel treasure. Nestled inside the pines that filter ocean views and spectacular sunsets, da Giovanni is only 120 steps from Ocean Avenue. Featuring fresh fish, certified Angus prime steaks, rack of lamb, fresh pastas, delicious salads, antipastos, and daily specials. Italian, Mediterranean, and California cuisine at its finest. With a wine list and service to match, da Giovanni is hospitality at its best.
Domenico’s on the Wharf
50 Fisherman’s Wharf #1, Monterey
(831) 372-3655
Specializing in fresh-caught crab, lobster, abalone, salmon, calamari, prawns, and sea bass, this Italian-infused menu has an enticing selection of Dominico Mercurio’s creations. Try tempting Italian-style seafood delicacies such as Pasta Capri with baby shrimps in fresh tomato, black olives, and butter-clam sauce or stuffed jumbo prawns with Dungeness crab topped with Hollandaise. Be sure to try the exquisite local mesquite-grilled sardines that made Monterey the famous spot it is today.
Duck Club Grill at Monterey Plaza Hotel
400 Cannery Row, Monterey
(831) 646-1706
Under the guidance of award-winning Executive Chef James Waller, the Duck Club Grill at Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa offers innovative cuisine and impeccable service in a comfortably elegant setting overlooking Monterey Bay. The restaurant serves sophisticated, contemporary American cuisine that is authoritatively seasoned, artfully presented, and pleasantly surprising. Entrées feature the freshest local produce, sustainable seafood and oak-broiled steaks. An extensive wine list, perennially singled out by Wine Spectator magazine for excellence, is sure to please the most discriminating palates.
Fandango
223 17th Street, Pacific Grove
(831) 372-3456
In the warmth of a Mediterranean setting, enjoy the spirited, flavorful foods of European, country-style cuisine. Feast on a variety of specialties from the open grills such as fresh seafood, rack of lamb, and steaks. Or, choose from regional dishes, which include pastas, paella, and couscous. More than 1,200 wines grace the award-winning wine list, all at fair prices. Full bar service and decadent desserts enhance the food and fun — taste a tradition. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Fandango cookbooks are available. Private parties for groups of 10 to 50.
The Fish Hopper
700 Cannery Row, Monterey
(831) 372-8543
Experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean combined with world-class dining on Cannery Row within walking distance to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and fine shops. The Fish Hopper, once an original sardine cannery building, offers spectacular panoramic views of the beautiful Monterey Bay from every table and specializes in fresh seafood, steaks, pastas, and live shellfish. We deal directly with the fishermen, buying through our own fish market. While enjoying a delicious meal, watch frolicking sea otters at play and even the occasional whale.
Flaherty’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill
Sixth Avenue between San Carlos & Dolores streets, Carmel
(831) 624-0311 (Oyster Bar)
(831) 625-1500 (Seafood Grill)
Two restaurants under one roof, Flaherty’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill create Carmel’s seafood emporium. Named among California’s ten best fresh-catch seafood restaurants by the San Jose Mercury News, Flaherty’s offers a feast of fresh regional dishes, specialty dishes, shellfish, prawns, homemade chowders, cioppino, pasta, and meats. Beer and wine. Oyster Bar opens 11 a.m. daily. Seafood Grill opens 5:30 p.m. daily.
The Forge in the Forest
Southwest corner of Fifth & Junipero avenues, Carmel
(831) 624-2233
This landmark Carmel restaurant has been voted “Best Outdoor Dining” every year since 1992! The Forge’s award-winning garden patios are nestled among the oak and pine trees of downtown Carmel and made comfortable year-round with fireplaces, heaters and large patio umbrellas. Prefer to sit inside? Choose from the casual copper-walled Forge Saloon with its hand-carved mahogany back bar and blacksmith fire pit or the more formal feel of the Oak Tree Room. Full bar, lunch and dinner seven days a week, plus Sunday brunch.
Fresh Cream
100C Heritage Harbor, 99 Pacific Street, Monterey
(831) 375-9798
Fresh Cream is the finest in classic French cuisine with just the right California accent. Located at Heritage Harbor with views of Fisherman’s Wharf, Fresh Cream’s kitchen features an ever-changing menu with fabulous house specialties from meats and seafood to innovative vegetarian creations. Breathtaking views and elegant décor set the mood for romantic dinners, special occasions or after-theater desserts. See why Fresh Cream has been recognized by Gourmet magazine, Wine Spectator, Zagat Survey and Condé Nast Traveler. Reservations recommended. Open for full bar service at 5 p.m., dinner from 5:30 p.m.
Gayle’s Bakery & Rosticceria
504 Bay Ave., Capitola
(831) 462-1200
More than 1,500 locals a day can’t be wrong. Pastas, oak-roasted chicken sandwiches, soups, specialty salads, award-winning breads, pastries and cakes, all made from scratch daily, using the finest ingredients. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between. Wine, beer and full espresso bar. Dine in the café, on the heated patio or take your treats to go for a picnic at the beach or in your hotel room. Open seven days a week, 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., including most holidays.
The Grill on Ocean Avenue
Ocean Avenue between Dolores & Lincoln streets, Carmel
(831) 624-2569
Bathed in a comforting blend of light, tapestry, mirrors, fire and warm oak, The Grill, located in the heart of fashionable Ocean Avenue, offers an atmosphere that is both stylish and relaxed but not trendy. The cuisine has been described as “lyrical, clearly Californian in its freshness, lightness and virtuosity.” The attentive staff, a generous, well-balanced wine list with an emphasis on Monterey County wines, and a full bar are the elements that make The Grill the locals’ choice for lunch or dinner. Reservations suggested.
Old Fisherman’s Grotto
39 Old Fisherman’s Wharf #1, Monterey
(831) 375-4604
Old Fisherman’s Grotto in Monterey is a must-visit restaurant. Serving fresh sustainable seafood, aged certified Black Angus beef and pasta dishes with an Italian flair. Old Fisherman’s Grotto’s worldwide reputation for great food and service has been written up by all the major food critics on the Central Coast. With more than 150 Monterey and Napa county wines that are often offered at 25 percent off the regular menu price. Executive Chef Juan Ponce always has a selection of more than 15 desserts daily.
Point Joe’s
2149 N. Fremont Street, Monterey
(831) 655-3355
Point Joe’s was named the “Best New Restaurant of 2006” by the Monterey County Herald on Feb 19, 2007. Founded by two chefs who became friends during an 18-year partnership at the Monterey Bay Aquarium as Executive Chef and Executive Sous Chef Tim Fisher and Francisco Malledo created something special at Point Joe’s. Focusing on food that is local, fresh, organic, and sustainable, the quality, presentation, and value at Point Joe’s cannot be beat! Seasonally changing menus always feature a wide selection under the categories of House-Made Pastas, Seafood, Steaks and Poultry, and Vegetarian. With amazing desserts, an outstanding wine list and expert service and you’ll find your “Best of 2008” in Monterey.
PortaBella
Ocean Avenue between Lincoln & Monte Verde streets, Carmel
(831) 624-4395
The cuisine of the Mediterranean sun countries, rich in color and flavor, delights the palates of diners in this romantic, quintessential Carmel restaurant. From the arched ceilings in the dining rooms to the enchanting indoor courtyard, the exceptional food, wine and ambiance generate a lively atmosphere. Entrées, divided between the land and the sea, are served with locally grown, organic produce. Open daily for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. Cocktails from 11 a.m. to midnight. Year-round, heated garden patio dining (dogs and their owners welcome).
Sardine Factory
701 Wave St. (Cannery Row), Monterey
(831) 373-3775
Every city has that one can’t-miss restaurant, where celebrities feel at home, and every other guest feels like a celebrity. The Sardine Factory’s cachet has made dining in our historical Cannery Row setting a tradition for world leaders, sports heroes, and entertainment icons. Our award-winning chefs prepare delectable creations of fresh, sustainable seafood and USDA Prime Beef; winner of Restaurant Hospitality magazine’s 2006 Best Wine List in America award. The Lounge’s live entertainment and affordable menu are a casual alternative to our other dining rooms. The Sardine Factory — Fun never tasted this good!
The Terrace Grill
at La Playa Hotel
Eighth Avenue & Camino Real, Carmel
(831) 624-4010
The Terrace Grill features alfresco breakfast, lunch, and dinner dining on the heated terrace overlooking La Playa Hotel’s beautiful gardens. Noted Chef Bunyan Fortune prepares a unique variety of offerings that blend the tremendous resources of Monterey County produce and fresh seafood with classic European preparations. Lobster tamales and filet mignon with Portabella mushroom sauce are just a few examples of Chef Fortune’s bountiful specialties. Indoors, the wood-paneled lounge offers cocktails and an extensive wine list featuring the best in Central Coast wines as well as Napa and Sonoma favorites.
The Village Corner
Sixth Avenue at Dolores Street, Carmel
(831) 624-3588
The casual yet sophisticated atmosphere is what has attracted locals and vacationers to this charming bistro for more than 50 years. Nestled in the heart of Carmel, you will enjoy dining indoors or on the heated garden patio, daytime or evening. The minute you walk through the door, you will be treated with the gracious hospitality that has been the mainstay of this quaint Carmel landmark. The bill of fare features a wide array of California cuisine choices as well as daily specials. Well-behaved dogs always welcome. Open at 7 a.m. for breakfast, 11:30 a.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. for dinner.
