Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Carmel-by-the-Sea

This market and deli is popular among the armed forces residents of Monterey due to its location to the base. Known for its massive sandwiches, Compagno's tasty creations are big enough for two meals! A deli case with lighter fare is also available, with salads, and even sinful decadent sweets like chocolate cake. Their refreshments are just as delicious with artisan brand names and craft brews available.

First Awakenings is aptly named, it's a real eye opener and not just with the great breakfast they serve but with the bright surroundings and the friendly staff serving you. The breakfast served here is rave-worthy delicious. Whether it's a waffle, blueberry pancakes, omelets, burritos, crepes, hash browns or just a plain old fruit bowl, you'll sure to be satisfied. If you're in the city, do not miss a chance to have a hearty breakfast here. First Awakenings is also dog friendly. Although be warned, this breakfast house is so famous you can almost always expect to find a crowd.

If you wish to give your palate a break from the local food then Yafa is just apt for you. The restaurant has an inviting interior that's well-furnished to entertain families and larger parties. The decor is accentuated with Middle-Eastern paraphernalia creating a wonderful ambiance for your meal. Hummus and Pita Bread and the Grilled Octopus are must-try appetizers on their menu, while the Lamb Ravioli and the Costeleta ~ Rack Of Lamb is the perfect main course for meat lovers. The Pistachio Pudding marks a perfect end to your meal. Yafa also delights patrons with live music and performances by belly dancers on certain evenings.

Come to Basil Seasonal Dining with plenty of time on hand, as the restaurant's offerings are perfect for a laid-back meal. This is a casual eatery taking pride in the quality of their ingredients that go into the making of their creative dishes. Whether you are a seafood lover, a meat connoisseur or a vegetarian, Basil Seasonal Dining has something for everyone's preference. The restaurant keeps reinventing their menu, thus promising something with the advent of a new season. A perfect spot for a relaxed brunch with your furry friends, Basil Seasonal Dining's patio is a dream on warmer days.

Come to patisserie to try amazing cakes, cookies, tarts and pastries which are full of flavors and goodness of chocolate and cream. You can choose from triple chocolate cake, tiramisu, chocolate tart, fresh berry tart or pear almond tart. There are scores of pastries to choose from as well which are priced quite moderately. Apart from desserts, they also have sandwiches, soups and salads.

The Treehouse Cafe is nestled in the heart of the city and is the place to be when you don't really know what you want to eat. Their menu is extensive and features classic dishes from a wide variety of cuisines and some of the favorites include the Thai Chicken Curry, Beef Stroganoff, coconut prawn soup, Osso Bucco, and Pad Thai. On a cool night grab a table on the patio and take in the romantic vibe and magnificent views of the city as you dine on the spectacular fare. This restaurant truly provides patrons with an exceptional dining experience and the fine taste of flavors from around the world.