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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:

  • 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!

  • Casanova (American, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Contemporary and rustic cuisine. Great food, great atmosphere, great dessert selection. A must visit restaurant!

  • Little Napoli (Italian, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Authentic Italian; great wine selection with neighboring wine bar.

  • 7th & Dolores (American, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – A classic yet contemporary and upscale steakhouse with great drinks and atmosphere.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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. 

  • 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!

  • Passionfish (Seafood, Pacific Grove) – Locals favorite in Pacific Grove; serving sustainable seafood and meats with a superb wine selection.

  • Katy’s Place (American, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Famous downtown brunch spot; largest breakfast menu on the West Coast!

  • 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.

  • 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:

  • 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.

  • 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!

  • Terry's Lounge (Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Elegant haunt at the Cypress Inn, offering international tapas and mains, plus cocktails and live music. 

  • 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.

  • Vino Napoli (Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Wine bar adjacent to Little Napoli; excellent selection of wines from all regions of Italy and abroad.

  • The Tap Room (Pebble Beach) – A world renowned watering hole for any and every golfer; tremendous bar and excellent steaks.

  • 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. 

  • Baja Cantina (Carmel Valley) – Sports bar with solid Mexican fare, lively atmosphere, and vintage racing paraphernalia.

  • 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.

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