AREA GUIDE - DINING

There is no end to amazing restaurants in Carmel-by-the-Sea and our surrounding areas. The San Carlos Agency, Inc. family takes pride and consideration in our local dining recommendations; we don't make a suggestion 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! We enjoy dining outside on sunny fall evenings by the fire pits. Be sure to try the great appetizers, pizzas, and desserts. Can't be missed.

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• The Stationaery – Hip and well-curated breakfast and lunch venue with high-quality ingredients and excellent espresso. Dinner service on occassion.

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• Casanova (Italian, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Contemporary and rustic cuisine with classic Carmel charm. A must visit restaurant!​

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• Little Napoli (Italian, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Italian-American food by "celebrity chef" Rich Pepe; great wine selection with neighboring wine bar.

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• 7th & Dolores (American Steakhouse, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – An upscale steakhouse with great drinks and atmosphere in a renovated bank.

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• Mission Ranch (American, Carmel-by-the-Sea) – Clint Eastwood-owned Carmel staple; excellent prime rib, famous singalong piano bar, great porch seating and views of wildlife, Carmel River Beach, and Point Lobos.​

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• La Balena (Italian, Carmel-by-the-Sea) - This Tuscan inspired restaurant sources 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 and 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 in a kid-friendly environment. 

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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, Watsonville) – 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) – Authentic Thai food served in a simple dining space in the Lighthouse district in new Monterey. The pumpkin curry and seafood stuffed artichoke are unforgettable!

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• ​Nepenthe (Big Sur) – The most scenic restaurant in Northern California; enjoy a famous Ambrosia Burger and an unparalleled view of the coastline and the Pacific. 

 

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 with a classic Pebble Beach tilt; 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-American fare, lively atmosphere, and vintage racing paraphernalia.

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• Mulligan (Carmel-by-the-Sea) – One of the few sports bars downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea has to offer; full menu and full bar.