Best Restaurants in Carmel

Pacific Coast Highway Travel picks the best restaurants in Carmel with the top eating places for fish, vegetarian, Mexican, the casual diner, and fine dining.

Live Music in the Dametra Cafe in Carmel

Choosing the best restaurants in Carmel isn’t easy as it has a great dining scene, but here we pick some of our favorites across a range of choices including seafood, vegetarian, fine dining, casual diners, and international cuisines.

Best Restaurants in Carmel

For the Seafood Lover

Flaherty's Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar

Sample seafood dish at Flaherty's Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar

Description: This lively spot offers a classic coastal dining experience. Expect fresh oysters on the half shell, succulent lobster rolls, and perfectly grilled fish. The décor is nautical-themed with a casual atmosphere.

Address: Dolores St & Ocean Ave, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923

Phone: (831) 624-5522

Website: flahertysseafood.com

Pangaea Grill

The Pangaea Grill in Carmel

Description: This upscale restaurant focuses on sustainable seafood. The menu changes frequently to highlight the freshest catches. The interior is modern and elegant, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering ocean views.

Address: San Carlos St & Ocean Ave, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923

Phone: (831) 624-8474

Website: pangaeagrillcarmel.com

For the Vegetarian

Dametra Cafe

Vegetarian dish at the Dametra Cafe in Carmel

Description: This charming café offers a delightful array of vegetarian and vegan dishes. The menu changes seasonally to incorporate fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a focus on healthy and delicious food.

Address: Dolores St & Ocean Ave, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923

Phone: (831) 624-8300

Website: dametracafe.com

The Gourmet Experience

Aubergine

Sample desserts at the Aubergine

Description: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers an unforgettable culinary experience. The menu is a modern interpretation of California cuisine, featuring the finest local ingredients. The ambiance is sophisticated and intimate.

Address: 7th Ave & Monte Verde St, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923

Phone: (831) 624-8578

Website: auberginecarmel.com

Anton & Michel

Anton and Michel

Description: This French-inspired restaurant is known for its impeccable service and exquisite cuisine. The menu features classic French dishes with a modern twist. The dining room is elegant and refined.

Address: San Carlos St & Ocean Ave, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923

Phone: (831) 624-8575

Website: antonandmichel.com

Classic American

Grasing's

Sample dish at Grasing's

Description: This beloved local spot offers classic American comfort food with a California twist. Enjoy hearty breakfasts, delicious sandwiches, and fresh salads in a relaxed atmosphere.

Address: Dolores St & Ocean Ave, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923

Phone: (831) 624-8200

Website: grasings.com

Irish Pub Dining

Brophy's Tavern

Brophy's Tavern in Carmel

Description: This casual Irish pub offers a lively atmosphere, great beer, and classic pub fare. Enjoy fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and other hearty dishes.

Address: Dolores St & Ocean Ave, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923

Phone: (831) 624-8477

Website: brophystavern.com

International Flavors

La Bicyclette

Charcuterie Board at La Bicyclette

Description: This charming bistro offers a taste of France and Italy. Enjoy classic dishes like coq au vin and spaghetti carbonara in a cozy, romantic setting.

Address: Dolores St & 7th Ave, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923

Phone: (831) 622-9899

Website: labicycletterestaurant.com

Il Tegamino

Sample dish at Il Tegamino

Description: This bustling Italian restaurant offers a delicious menu of homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and other classic Italian dishes. The atmosphere is lively and energetic.

Address: San Carlos St & Ocean Ave, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923

Phone: (831) 624-8470

Website: iltegaminocarmel.com

Cultura Carmel

Sample dishes at Cultura Carmel Mexican restaurant in Carmel

Description: This vibrant restaurant offers a modern take on Mexican cuisine. Enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes with a focus on local ingredients. The atmosphere is lively and colorful.

Address: San Carlos St & Ocean Ave, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923

Phone: (831) 625-7600

Website: culturacarmel.com

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