Media Kit
What's NEW in Carmel-by-the-Sea
NEW FOOD & WINE
Carmel's Culinary Renaissance: With more than 60 restaurants in one-square-mile and an population of less than 4,000, Carmel-by-the-Sea boasts more restaurants per capita than any other small city in the United States (with no chains!). The thriving culinary scene in Carmel-by-the-Sea recently welcomed two new restaurants,and a re-imagining of an icon, including:
Nora's is a new restaurant in Carmel-by-the-Sea that offers "Carmel's Comfort Cuisine." Co-owned by Loie Alnimri and his wife, Sarah, along with Loie's cousin Faisal Nimri, the restaurant is a tribute to Loie's grandmother, Nora. The menu is intentionally broad and eclectic, featuring a diverse range of comfort dishes, including gnocchi, meatloaf, and fried chicken and waffles, all at an affordable price point. Nora's is a true family affair, where diners can experience hospitality, high-quality food, and a gorgeous setting, both indoor and out. Hours run 11am-9pm daily.
Originally founded by Clint Eastwood, the iconic Hog's Breath Inn has been "respectfully reimagined" by its restaurateur owner, Lee Morcus. The restoration focused on preserving its "original soul and rustic charm" with updates like new flooring and decor. The menu features local favorites, such as clam chowder and grilled artichokes, alongside unique dishes. It has a self-contained pub and a dog-friendly patio with a special "Pooch Menu." The Hog's Breath also stays open late on weekends, providing a rare late-night spot for hospitality workers. Hours are 11:30-3:30pm and 4-11pm daily, until midnight Friday-Saturday.
VIN-by-the-Sea offers an elevated and fresh experience to Carmel's culinary scene, nestled in the Su Vecino courtyard on Dolores Street. This all-day restaurant and wine bar, formerly a gallery space, features a full, chef-driven kitchen and an extensive by-the-glass list. The menu is crafted to complement every pour with raw bar delicacies, refined small plates, and fresh coastal flavors. A favorite among locals and visitors alike, VIN By the Sea is a vibrant gathering place where art, wine, and coastal cuisine come together.
NEW (ISH) HOTELS
An eagerly awaited sister property to the luxurious L'Auberge Carmel, Carmel Beach Hotel opened in the former Colonial Terrace space. This sea-centric newcomer provides an exclusive experience with 26 guest rooms, many with private decks and sweeping ocean views. The hotel's culinary offerings include complimentary breakfast baskets and terroir-inspired seaside fare overseen by Michelin star Chef Justin Cogley, as well as access to Spa Adeline - the only hotel spa in Carmel-by-the-Sea!
Two Le Petit Pali properties opened recently, Le Petit Pali at 8th Ave and Le Petit Pali at Ocean Ave. These boutique inns offer a reinvented take on the classic bed-and-breakfast, blending a charming, home-like feel with high-end amenities and sophisticated design. Guests are treated to a complimentary Champagne Continental Breakfast, a daily social hour with local wines, and an array of luxury in-room comforts, from Diptyque bath products to fine linens and daily cookie delivery. Both locations are also pet-friendly, offering a "Le Petit Pawli" amenity suite for dogs, and provide a chic, intimate, and highly personalized lodging experience.
NEW RETAIL & ART GALLERIES
Carmel Vibes Gallery features Nicholas Trofimuk, a fine art photographer and master printer whose career spans over 35 years. Working primarily in black and white before expanding into unenhanced archival color prints, he is known for capturing beauty in everything from the sensual unfolding of a flower to the expansive New Mexico landscape and cityscapes worldwide. In 2024, he began to spend time on the Monterey Peninsula to be near his daughter and was immediately captivated by the natural beauty of the area, inspiring him to open Carmel Vibes Gallery. While his works reside in prestigious collections globally, his art is guided by a mission to create pieces that transport the viewer.
The second location to the popular Somewhere in Carmel store, Somewhere on Ocean opened July 2025 and is a unique shop that sells a variety of items, including clothing, home goods, ceramics, and accessories. The name itself is a nod to the charming and quirky character of Carmel-by-the-Sea, a town famous for not having street addresses. The store is a place to wander, find hidden gems, and discover the unexpected - inviting visitors to become a part of the Carmel-by-the-Sea community and its unique, artistic atmosphere.
Gallery MAR, a popular contemporary art gallery, has recently opened a second, larger location called Gallery MAR North, just two blocks north of its original space on Dolores Street. This expansion, which celebrated its grand opening last year, was driven by the need for more wall space to showcase a greater volume of contemporary art. The new gallery features concrete floors and white walls, creating a more modern, luminous feel that contrasts with the warmth of the original space.
The House of Cardoon is a unique lifestyle shop expanded with a new location in San Carlos Square. The shop, offers a unique and colorful mix of local makers, vintage finds, and hard-to-find brands.
Jenni Kayne, the California lifestyle brand, known for its timeless staples and neutral colors, opened a store in Carmel Plaza. Jenni Kayne is a prominent lifestyle brand that embodies the "California cool" aesthetic, focusing on timeless, neutral, and effortless design for both wardrobe and home. Founded in 2002 by Jenni Kayne herself, the brand has built a loyal following by prioritizing quality, natural fibers, and creating what they call a "uniform" of essential pieces meant to last - a great addition to Carmel Plaza.
For sweet lovers, Swedish candy store Sea Shack Candy Co. and Gelato by the Sea are newly opened in the same little shopping square, between Ocean And 7th in Carmel Square.
NEW THEATER RENOVATION
The historic Golden Bough Playhouse theater has undergone a complete renovation, which includes new stadium-style seating, a revolving stage, gallery viewing, increased restrooms, expanded lobby and concession areas, and better accessibility for those with disabilities.
EXPANDED CARMEL CULINARY WEEK
Experience the "Art of the Plate" at the 6th Annual Carmel-by-the-Sea Culinary Week from June 5 - June 13, 2026! Don't miss this festive, week-long celebration with amazing village-wide events set in some of Carmel's most scenic and whimsical locations - along with immersive food and wine experiences, curated menus, and special offers at more than 30 participating restaurants. Stay at Carmel-by-the-Sea hotels to fully explore this one-of-a-kind food and wine festival! Stay in-the-know at Carmel-by-the-Sea Culinary Week.