AREA GUIDE - DINING
Inn at Spanish Bay
There is literally no end to the amazing restaurants in Carmel-by-the-Sea and the surrounding areas. The San Carlos Agency, Inc. family takes much pride and consideration in our local dining recommendations; we don't make any recommendation unless we experience it regularly and adore it ourselves. Enjoy!
Restaurants preferred by the San Carlos Agency, Inc. family of agents and employees:
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The Bench (American, The Lodge at Pebble Beach) – Overlooking the famed 18th hole, the view can only be matched by the excellent menu and constantly changing list of craft cocktails! Can't be missed!
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Casanova (American, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Contemporary and rustic cuisine. Great food, great atmosphere, great dessert selection. A must visit restaurant!
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Little Napoli (Italian, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Authentic Italian; great wine selection with neighboring wine bar.
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7th & Dolores (American, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – A classic yet contemporary and upscale steakhouse with great drinks and atmosphere.
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Mission Ranch (American, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Clint Eastwood-owned Carmel staple; excellent prime rib, famous piano bar, great porch seating and views of Carmel Bay and Point Lobos.
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La Balena (Italian, Carmel-by-the-Sea) - Friends of San Carlos Agency, Inc., this Tuscan inspired restaurant sources incredibly fresh ingredients while being tucked into a cozy dining area with additional patio seating.
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Il Tegamino (Italian, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Italian comfort food located in the charming Court of the Golden Bough, this cute spot is off the beaten path but highly recommended.
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Sur (California Cuisine, Carmel) – A favorite for locals and tourists alike, Sur is located at the mouth of the valley in the Barnyard and offers a variety of seafood and steak plates along with a great Happy Hour menu.
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Cafe Rustica (Italian, Carmel Valley Village) – Hidden gem in Carmel Valley Village just 13 miles east (20 minute drive) of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea; we recommend the pizzas and salmon filet!
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Passionfish (Seafood, Pacific Grove) – Locals favorite in Pacific Grove; serving sustainable seafood and meats with a superb wine selection.
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Katy’s Place (American, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Famous downtown brunch spot; largest breakfast menu on the West Coast!
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Phil’s Fish Market (Seafood, Moss Landing) – Freshest seafood in Monterey County; dine-in (prepare to wait in line!) or take-out; we recommend the seafood cioppino or calamari steak.
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Zab Zab (Thai, Monterey) – No frills just extremely authentic and tasty Thai food served amongst an ombiance of simplicity. The pumpkin curry, however, is unforgettable!
Recommended Bars:
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Vesuvio (Carmel-by-the-Sea) – One of the only rooftop terraces in downtown Carmel with great happy hour specials. Main dining room downstairs is excellent for formal dinner as well.
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The Inn at Spanish Bay (Pebble Beach) – Enjoy cozy fire pits (and blankets if you need them!) with a full menu of food and drinks. Do not miss the bagpiper every day at sunset!
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Terry's Lounge (Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Elegant haunt at the Cypress Inn, offering international tapas and mains, plus cocktails and live music.
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Hog’s Breath Inn (Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Formerly owned by Clint Eastwood; great setting to enjoy drinks and casual food by numerous outdoor fireplaces in downtown Carmel.
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Vino Napoli (Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Wine bar adjacent to Little Napoli; excellent selection of wines from all regions of Italy and abroad.
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The Tap Room (Pebble Beach) – A world renowned watering hole for any and every golfer; tremendous bar and excellent steaks.
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Nepenthe (Big Sur) – The most scenic bar in Nothern California; enjoy a famous Ambrosia Burger and an unparalleled view of the coastline and the Pacific.
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Baja Cantina (Carmel Valley) – Sports bar with solid Mexican fare, lively atmosphere, and vintage racing paraphernalia.
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Mulligan (Carmel-by-the-Sea) – One of the few but easily the best sports bar in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea; good food and atmosphere.