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Best Neighbourhood Gem Restaurants in Carmel

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33 restaurants available nearby

A photo of L'Escargot - Carmel restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1239)
Price: Moderate
• French • Carmel
Booked 8 times today
Nestled in a residential neighborhood on Mission Street, three blocks north of Ocean Avenue lies a slice of “Old Carmel”. Originally founded in 1958 by Yvan Nopert and his family, Chef – Owner Kericos Loutas carries on the traditions of superb Country French Cuisine and personalized friendly service. A local favorite for casual fine dining in a romantic atmosphere, L’Escargot offers visitors an alternative to the “tourist experience”. The menu changes frequently, as do the specials. A three-course prix fixed Bistro Menu is offered nightly.
A photo of Grasing's restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3051)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Carmel
Booked 11 times today
DINING UPDATE: Please call restaurant if desired reservation is not available online.Grasing's is open for indoor dining and limited outdoor dining (weather permitting). Please note if stairs are an issue for any guest. Please continue to visit our website a https://grasings.com for menu updates, holiday offerings and special events. Grasing’s, located in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, lies along the Pacific Coast in Central California in Monterey County. Celebrity chef partners, Kurt Grasing and Narsai David, truly created a gem. From friendly and professional service, an award winning wine list and seasonally inspired cocktails to the fresh and sustainable local ingredients.Please contact the restaurant to request dog friendly patio seating.
A photo of PortaBella Restaurant restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1669)
Price: Expensive
• French • Carmel
Booked 42 times today
Our cuisine features beautiful specialties from France, Italy and Spain. The dishes are rich in color and flavor.PortaBella is picturesque: awarded First Prize for Beautiful Flowerscaping from the Carmel Garden Club.The ambience is stylish and romantic, the setting historic
A photo of Anton & Michel Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3238)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Carmel
Booked 27 times today
Anton and Michel is now open INDOORS and OUTDOORS at the COURT of the FOUNTAINS.LUNCH: 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM / DINNER: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM. Reservations are highly recommended.If you are having any difficulty making reservations online, please call the restaurant directly at 831-624-2406 or send us an email.Since 1980, Anton and Michel has consistently maintained an award-winning reputation for true excellence in the art of fine dining. A complete interior remodel was recently completed features handset stonework throughout the restaurant. The floor to ceiling windows offer breathtaking views of the Court of the Fountains. Zagat Survey calls it: Carmel’s long-standing paean to graciousness in dining out. Along with updated and contemporary changes to the menus, ultimate table side service flambé desserts remain. As quoted in the Wine Spectator, Anton and Michel is “probably the best dining experience in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea”.
A photo of Carmel's Bistro Giovanni restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1939)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carmel
Booked 13 times today
Do you love Italian food? A world famous restaurant executive chef says it all by saying, “the best meals in California are at Carmel Bistro Giovanni!” An artful, romantic setting with an international wine list and amazing cocktails. Try some of our specialties: the "Mamma Mia" features mouth-watering meatballs with pasta and southern Mediterranean-spiced sauce, Veal Osso Bucco, Lamb Shank, steaks, and a plethora of seafood including halibut, salmon and sand dabs! For our gluten-free guests, we can also provide gluten free pasta and bread. *Patio availability depending on weather. We do have plenty of heat lamps but do not have covered tables outdoors. Please understand this when booking.* For parties of 6 or more we require a credit card to hold your table with a 24 hour cancellation policy, $25 per person will be applied to your credit card for late cancellations and no shows. *We have a $30 corkage fee for a standard size bottle (750 ml.) 2 bottle maximum per table.
A photo of Dametra Cafe restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(221)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Carmel
Booked 26 times today
Dametra Cafe is a gem in the Monterey neighborhood, known for its healthy, high-quality Mediterranean food delivered quickly. The distinctly Greek decor adds to the charm. Reviews rave about the friendly atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious food. One customer shared, 'the food was fresh & authentic, and the vibe was familial. It was like being at a family party.' With its lively environment and consistently high ratings, Dametra Cafe is definitely a neighborhood favorite.
A photo of The Hog's Breath Inn - Carmel restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1027)
Price: Moderate
• American • Carmel
Booked 5 times today
Welcome to the famous Hog's Breath Inn, Carmel.Formerly owned by Clint Eastwood, and sold to a good family friend, Kaiser Morcus,a seasoned restaurateur, hotelier, grocer, butcher and entrepreneur.​PATIO DINING, LUNCH & DINNER, OPEN 11 AMOur belief is that you are what you eat.
A photo of Il Fornaio - Carmel restaurant
4.4
Awesome(2257)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Carmel
Booked 30 times today
Il Fornaio - Carmel is a neighborhood gem, serving authentic Italian cuisine in downtown Carmel. The restaurant consistently receives high ratings for its food, service, and ambiance. Reviewers praise the restaurant's 'fabulous food and service', 'wonderful dining experience', and 'real authentic Italian cuisine'. They also appreciate the restaurant's accommodating staff, good value, and the ambiance of the venue. It's a local favorite and a recommended place to dine in Carmel.
A photo of Yafa restaurant
4.1
Excellent(518)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Carmel
Booked 1 time today
Yafa Restaurant is a casual corner cafe serving delicious Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes in a warm and homey environment.
A photo of Le Soufflé restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(447)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Carmel
Booked 2 times today
**LUNCH ONLY MONDAY-FRIDAY STARTING AT 11:30AM- CLOSED SAT/SUN**We are located in CARMEL, CALIFORNIA, USA. Reservations are only available through OpenTable up to 3 weeks in advance. Intimate indoor dining room can accommodate parties up to 4 guests- Menu changes seasonally- see website for current menu.Le Soufflé is a fine dining restaurant serving a traditional French soufflé lunch menu. Everything is exclusively prepared by our Executive Chef/Co-Owner creating a very unique and finely crafted dining experience. The wine list offers a selection of wines from exquisite boutique producers in France and are all available by the glass or bottle. Our guests can look forward to an elegant escape when they step into our intimate and luxurious dining room. We are located on Dolores Street, just two blocks off Ocean Avenue in the beautiful village of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Stephanievip
    San Francisco Bay Area •20 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Always a favorite…whether a casual bite in the bar, a special occasion or anything in between.
    More info
    Grasing'sPrice: Expensive• Californian• Carmel
    4.6
  • Sylvia
    San Francisco Bay Area •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Anton & Michel’s is one of the best restaurants in Carmel! The ambience, the food and the service was outstanding! We celebrated our 35th anniversary at the restaurant and they made it very special from wishing us a happy anniversary when we walked in the door to the wonderful dessert we had at the end of the meal! We recommend this restaurant to all for special occasions or when you want a great meal with great service!
    More info
    Anton & Michel RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Californian• Carmel
    4.7
  • Jacquelinevip
    California Central Coast •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Always amazingly perfect! Carey owner and Chef creates beautifully crafted menu with a French flare. Something for everyone to love. Sean the faithfully loyal waiter is a delight!
    More info
    L'Escargot - CarmelPrice: Moderate• French• Carmel
    4.8
  • grtfoodvip
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •37 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    THE BEST MEAL WE HAVE EVER HAD!! My husband had lobster ravioli that was terrific & I had a seafood dish that had with 7 different seafoods .. crab, mussels. Clams,white fish, shrimp, prawns. All in a yummy ragu sauce with linguine! BOTH OUTSTANDINGLY DELICIOUS! Also shared a great Caesar salad with slices of homemade sourdough with olive oil & balsamic for dipping '!' This is our new go to When we visit Carmel!' The hand painted murals on the walls & background Italian music added to the mood! We had a great server who topped off our amazing experience ‼️👍🌈
    More info
    Carmel's Bistro GiovanniPrice: Expensive• Italian• Carmel
    4.6
  • Judyvip
    Texas Panhandle •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Porta Bella was a fabulous dining experience! Cozy atmosphere, attentive staff provided excellent service, and amazing food. Highly recommend this restaurant in the heart of beautiful Carmel!
    More info
    PortaBella RestaurantPrice: Expensive• French• Carmel
    4.5

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Carmel

Discover the hidden treasures of the California Central Coast dining scene with our curated list of neighborhood gems in Carmel, Monterey / Carmel area. Each restaurant offers a unique blend of ambiance and culinary excellence, making them standout choices for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic dining experience. From the rustic charm of European-inspired eateries to the cozy allure of local seafood spots, these establishments are celebrated for their exceptional service, delightful atmospheres, and delectable dishes. The dining scene in Carmel is renowned for its eclectic mix of fine dining and casual, intimate venues, where the focus is on delivering both quality food and a memorable dining experience. These neighborhood gems, often tucked away in quaint courtyards or charming streets, provide an ideal setting for a romantic evening, a family dinner, or a special celebration. Patrons consistently praise these restaurants for maintaining high standards in both cuisine and service, often highlighting the skilled preparation of both local and international dishes. Whether you’re craving freshly prepared seafood, classic French comfort food, or authentic Italian dishes, these neighborhood gems in Carmel have something special to offer. Perfect for anyone looking to explore the culinary delights of the California Central Coast, these restaurants encapsulate the charm and sophistication of Carmel’s vibrant dining culture. Make your reservation today and experience why these eateries are cherished as true neighborhood gems.

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