The kitchen and rotisserie are completely open for all to see in this colorfully decorated bistro that combines American, Italian and French cuisines. The interior is fancy and sleek, but the attitude is very casual, which accounts for the wide-ranging clientele. It won Esquire's award for "best eatery of 1995" for plates such as Grilled Gulf Prawns over Caramelized Leek Risotto and Veal Cheeks over Mustard Whipped Potatoes. Beginning at around USD20 for the house varietals, the impressive wine list includes some alternative whites and adventurous reds. The friendly service will bring you back many times. See website for menu, wine list and more.
Situated in an old stone house dating back to the 1880s, this Monterey restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner. Dine inside by the fireplace or under the stars on the flowery patio. Rooms are available for private parties and catering is also available. The extensive wine list begins at the low end and includes several Syrah, Cabernets, and rare Magnums. The impeccable service attracts many types, from couples on romantic getaways to tourists to locals.
This beloved waterfront seafood restaurant is a famed Monterey institution. Established in the 1950s, Old Fisherman's Grotto still buys the catch of the day from local fishermen and sources its produce from the nearby fertile Salinas Valley. The menu features a large selection of seafood pastas as well as succulent steaks, lobster tail, Dungeness crab, salads, clam chowder and more. The floor to ceiling windows allow diners unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and perhaps a sea lion or two.
In spite of its somewhat suggestive name, this restaurant is a model of propriety. The dining room is comfortable yet sophisticated. The cream-colored walls are adorned with just a bit of artwork, but not too much. Low lights and proper white table linens add a refined touch. The specialty of the house is its ever-changing selection of fresh, locally caught fish. The wine list has won awards in the past, and the restaurant is proud to offer many of the vintages at very affordable prices.
This restaurant was voted the best by Adventures in Dining Magazine's readers' poll and it offers a delicious variety of Central California coastal cuisine using fresh, local produce. Locals haunt the place. The selection of wines is designed to perfectly complement the dishes. You can eat inside, surrounded by polished wood surfaces, or on the patio. It is a great bet for a reception or an intimate dinner. The service is warm and friendly.
Aubergine at L'Auberge Carmel is a brilliant addition to the Central Coast's dining scene. With exquisite creations from the kitchen, this restaurant takes the concept of fine dining to another level while being approachable. The focus is on locally-sourced highest quality ingredients and fresh seasonal produce. The simple and elegant interiors perfectly juxtapose the complex dishes where all the value is on the plate. The menu is daily-changing, wine-pairings and tasting menus are also offered.
This gem of a restaurant in Pacific Grove serves up fresh Italian cuisine and seafood specialties. Known for their famous ravioli's made daily, the lobster and mascarpone are by far the local favorite. Nightly specials of seafood and meat add variety to the menu, while the pasta dishes are usually light and full of flavor. The crisp white decor is enriched from the giant European advertising posters that line the walls, which of course, are original productions! The wine list features a bevy of Italian labels with a few local labels as well. If you're up for it, the dessert is made in-house with mouthwatering offerings like berry cobbler and tiramisu.
L'Escargot opened its doors in 1958, and today chef-owner Kericos Loutas carries on the hearty, Country French cuisine. Tucked away in a residential neighborhood, you will enjoy a warm and homey atmosphere. You can choose from a bistro or three-course set menu, allowing you to order a variety of dishes and eat as little or as much as you like. An extensive wine list is provided, featuring many Monterey and California Coastal wines.
Savor a taste of European style flair at the Taste Cafe & Bistro. This warm and attractive eatery is perfect for an intimate meal. Live jazz performances from Thursday to Saturday just add to the already charming atmosphere. This award-winning restaurant satisfies the gourmand in you with offerings like grilled eggplant Napoleon, herb roasted chicken, freshly prepared sausages and more. Watch Bill Karaki, the owner and chef, in action as he prepares your dishes. A selection from the extensive bar and wine list helps you round up your meal. Don't forget to try the delicious desserts especially the hot favorite—the brioche bread pudding. Yum!
Dametra Cafe is virtually impossible to get into for dinner without a reservation, the tiny restaurant features only 14 tables and is extremely popular as a dining spot. serving up a selection of authentic Greek and Middle-Eastern inspired dishes, the atmosphere is lively and convivial and warm. From the decor to the food you'll feel swept away to a different place. Often featuring live music and impromptu dancing, guests can relax over a good glass of ouzo and try out specialities like Spanakopita, Baba Ghanoug, Hummus with Pita and Lamb Shish kebab. For reservations, give them a call.
Located inside the Carmel Plaza, Flying Fish Grill is a perfect for a special occasion. The timber-dominated interior of the place exudes a rustic vibe. Dim lights gently illuminate the amibiance making Flying Fish Grill a preferred spot for romantic dinners. Freshly-caught treasures from the Carmel Bay take center stage on the menu here. Asian dishes created with an American twist form the rest of their menu. Everything from halibut, tuna, salmon, seabass, cod to prawns and scallops can be devoured here. Clay Pot dinners are yet another specialty of this place.
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.