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CARMEL
Anton & Michel
In the Court of Fountains
Mission Street
between Ocean & Seventh avenues
Carmel, California
(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. The distinctive and artistic flair of creative Continental-California cuisine is guided by Chef Mark Simpson, who combines traditional fare with lighter and more flavorful sauces. 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.
Flaherty’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill
Sixth Avenue
between San Carlos & Dolores streets
Carmel, California
(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 10 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, steak, and chicken. Beer and wine. Opens at 11 a.m. Seafood Grill opens 5:30 p.m. daily.
The Forge in the Forest
Southwest corner of Fifth Avenue & Junipero Street
Carmel, California
(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.
The Grill on Ocean Avenue
Ocean Avenue
between Dolores & Lincoln streets
Carmel, California
(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.
Pacific’s Edge at Highlands Inn
120 Highlands Drive
Carmel, California
(831) 622-5445
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the award-winning Pacific’s Edge at Highlands Inn offers the finest contemporary American cuisine with French influences, impeccable service, and an incredible wine list with more than 1,400 selections. Executive Chef Mark Ayers, the creative visionary behind the renowned restaurant, draws upon the resources of the Monterey Peninsula to create his unique menu showcasing the finest meats, seafood, and produce. Located four miles south of downtown Carmel, Pacific’s Edge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Big Sur Coastline.
PortaBella
Ocean Avenue between Lincoln & Monte Verde streets
Carmel, California
(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.-5 p.m. and dinner from 5-10 p.m. Cocktails from 11 a.m. to midnight. Year-round, heated garden patio dining (dogs and their owners welcome).
The Village Corner
Sixth Avenue at Dolores Street
Carmel, California
(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.
CARMEL VALLEY
Marinus Restaurant at Bernardus Lodge
415 Carmel Valley Rd.
Carmel Valley, California
(831) 658-3595
Marinus at Bernardus Lodge has struck the winning combination: acclaimed Chef Cal Stamenov has been perfectly paired with Wine Director Mark Jensen. Chef Cal Stamenov’s “California Natural Cuisine” draws on his fondness for local seafood, naturally-farmed meats and organic herbs and vegetables to create the nightly menu. Since 2001, Marinus was awarded the “Grand Award” by Wine Spectator and Zagat Survey has noted Marinus as one of the Top Restaurants and Most Romantic places south of San Francisco. Marinus has also received four stars from the Mobil Travel Guide for its outstanding menu, service, and ambiance.
MONTEREY
The C Restaurant + Bar
750 Cannery Row
Monterey, California
(831) 375-4500
This elegant oceanfront restaurant features floor-to-ceiling windows, and an outdoor patio. Delicious breakfasts feature house specialties; at lunch or dinner, a classic menu of salads, sandwiches, seafood, pastas, Niman Ranch beef, and organic produce provides something for every palate. The adjacent C bar is a Cannery Row hotspot for cocktails and incredible views, with an extensive array of local wines and a sparkling wine menu from around the world.
Café Fina
47 Fisherman’s Wharf
Monterey, California
(831) 372-5200
When dining on Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf, look for Café 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 Café Fina a wonderful dining experience. The spectacular waterfront view is just icing on the cake!
Chart House
444 Cannery Row
Monterey, California
(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. On-line reservations accepted.
Domenico’s on the Wharf
50 Fisherman’s Wharf #1
Monterey, California
(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 Dominic Mercurio’s creations. With his Sicilian background, this Monterey born-and-raised chef has created ‘Pasta Capri’ with baby shrimps in fresh tomato, black olives and butter-clam sauce to his stuffed jumbo prawns with Dungeness crab topped with hollandaise. Be sure to try their 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, California
(831) 646-1706
Under the guidance of award-winning Executive Chef James Walter, 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.
The Fish Hopper
700 Cannery Row
Monterey, California
(831) 372-8543
Experience the fun of dining overlooking the Pacific Ocean on Cannery Row, within walking distance of the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The Fish Hopper Restaurant, once an original Sardine Cannery building, offers spectacular panoramic views of the beautiful Monterey Bay from every table, including on the heated outdoor patio. While enjoying a wonderful, relaxing meal, watch frolicking sea otters at play and an occasional whale. Serving lunch and dinner daily, the Fish Hopper offers delicious fresh sustainable seafood, steaks, pastas, and more. A children’s menu is also available.
Fresh Cream
100 C Heritage Harbor, 99 Pacific St.
Monterey, California
(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.
Isabella’s On The Wharf
60 Fisherman’s Wharf #1
Monterey, California
(831) 375-3956
There are many things worth your attention in Monterey, and Isabella’s should be elevated to the top of the list. Another of Tene Shake’s Signature restaurants, the world-class chefs prepare an extensive collection of fresh fish, all in keeping with the Seafood Watch Program. The delectable cuisine is prepared with the highest standards of culinary excellence in mind, and the personalized service of the staff is inspired by a spectacular view of Monterey Bay. And, at the end of your meal, enjoy an incredible array of desserts you would never attempt to create at home.
Old Fisherman’s Grotto
39 Old Fisherman’s Wharf #1
Monterey, California
(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 world wide reputation for great food and service has been written up by all the major food critics in 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.
Sardine Factory
701 Wave Street (Cannery Row)
Monterey, California
(831) 373-3775
Celebrating 40 years! Every city has that one can’t-miss restaurant, where celebrities feel at home and every other guest feels like a celebrity. Since 1968, the Sardine Factory’s cachet has made dining in our historic 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!
PACIFIC GROVE
Fandango
22317th St.
Pacific Grove, California
(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 900 wines grace the award-winning wine list. 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.
