Lively Food Destination

Restaurants in Carmel run the gamut from jeans-and-flip-flops casual to Old World elegance; from old school Italian to edgy modern California cuisine; from heirloom Mediterranean recipes to innovative new tastes and textures. It's all here with more than 50 restaurants, and all within a few minute's stroll from each other. Nearly all are locally owned and operated, and in many cases owners are on hand to greet their guests, making Carmel dining a personal, intimate experience. The emphasis here is on fresh ingredients, sourced from the fertile Monterey County farms and abundant Monterey Bay.

Carmel has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most canine-friendly cities on Earth. And that means that there are plenty of dog-friendly restaurants catering to our four-legged friends—in many cases showcasing a menu specially prepared for your furry gourmand along with Yappy Hour at the popular Cypress Inn.

Local's Tip

Of course, everyone uses online review sites when researching restaurants. But the people of Carmel are a fantastic resource. Innkeepers, tasting room employees, and shopkeepers are all experts on the offerings of Carmel eateries and are happy to share their knowledge. So, don't be afraid to ask for a recommendation from a local.