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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Carmel

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14 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Dametra Cafe restaurant
1. Dametra Cafe
4.8
Exceptional(257)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Carmel
Booked 42 times today
Dametra Cafe is a gem in Carmel, offering high-quality Mediterranean dishes in a relaxed Greek coastal setting. Customers rave about the delicious food and engaging atmosphere, mentioning the prompt service and friendly staff. Even after the meal, the experience doesn't end, as the restaurant features live music. Despite being a bit of a drive, customers find it worth it, revisiting Dametra Cafe every time they're in the area.
A photo of Enzo Ristorante Italiano restaurant
2. Enzo Ristorante Italiano
4.3
Awesome(455)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carmel
Booked 17 times today
If a Western Mediterranean version of life exists, you will find it nestled between Ocean ave and Seventh st on San Carlos Street in Carmel-by-the-Sea. The European style village nestled above a picturesque white sandy beach is the perfect backdrop to "ENZO". At Enzo, you will be beckoned by the rustically charming patios surrounded by draping bougainvillea on a sundrenched day or the cozy and simplistic interior warmed by the fireplace when the cool fog blankets the coast.Calabria is a southern region in Italy where the owner, Enzo, comes from. Calabria is a place where life is still slow. It's the beauty, the passion, the family, the love...this is what you will find at Enzo...simplicity, love, comfort, family!
A photo of Patisserie Boissiere Restaurant restaurant
3. Patisserie Boissiere Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(438)
Price: Moderate
• French • Carmel
Booked 14 times today
Patisserie Boissiere Restaurant is a gem in Carmel-by-the-Sea, with its unique European chateau setting and French country food. It's a favorite for its delicious food, excellent service, and cozy ambiance. Reviewers rave about the 'exceptional dishes', 'wonderful homey ambiance', and 'first class' wine list. Many have returned and plan to again, citing the restaurant's 'welcoming and warm' setting, 'friendly, efficient' service, and 'true jewel' status in Carmel. It's a place that 'brings back memories of the many wonderful small, family owned restaurants you find in France.'
A photo of Le Soufflé restaurant
4. Le Soufflé
5.0
Exceptional(461)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Carmel
**LUNCH ONLY MONDAY-FRIDAY STARTING AT 11:30AM- CLOSED SAT/SUN- (CLOSED 2/17-2/21)**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.
A photo of Basil Seasonal Dining restaurant
5. Basil Seasonal Dining
4.5
Awesome(924)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carmel
Booked 7 times today
Creative and modern Californian/Mediterranean dining located in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Our seasonal menu is inspired by the freshest sustainable seafood the Monterey Bay has to offer and the finest organic produce from our local farmers. Compliment your experience with fun and contemporary cocktails as well as an excellent selection of California"s most sophisticated wines. Our menu includes a generous selection of vegetarian dishes as well as gluten free options. We offer outdoor seating that is dog friendly.
A photo of Shearwater Tavern restaurant
6. Shearwater Tavern
4.4
Awesome(110)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Carmel
Booked 5 times today
Located in the idyllic seaside community of Carmel, Shearwater Tavern features breakfast and dinner within the Carmel Mission Inn. Our dinner menu has a selection of smaller plates to share along with some larger individual plates. We have partnered with a local dairy, coffee roaster, honey purveyor and bakery. Our Chef Fabian Di Paolo's menu is New American with Influences from his Argentinian, Italian, Floribbean roots. Our cocktail program features beautiful classic and specialty cocktails along with craft beer and California wines. You must try his House made Parker House rolls.
A photo of Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar - Pacific Grove restaurant
7. Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar - Pacific Grove
4.9
Exceptional(1353)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Pacific Grove
Booked 22 times today
We are currently open for dine-in and outdoor heated sidewalk/patio.We are always available for curbside pickup.Welcome to Mezzaluna Pasteria and Mozzarella Bar. Chef Soerke and Amy invite you in to enjoy daily house made Pasta, Mozzarella and Gelato. We offer a full bar with specialty cocktails. Chef’s Specialties includeBuccatini Al’AmatricianaLinguini alla VongoleChicken Sausage LasagneSpaghetti CarbonaraGrilled Octopus Lamb Meatballs House-made CharcuterieGnocchi with Gorgonzola Dolce Sauce & Black Truffle OilLittle Gem Caesar Salad with Parmigiano Reggiano Raviloi di Manzo Pate di Anatra
A photo of Coastal Kitchen Monterey restaurant
8. Coastal Kitchen Monterey
4.7
Exceptional(322)
Price: Very Expensive
• Farm-to-table • Monterey
Booked 6 times today
NOW SERVING SUNDAY BRUNCH!!The Coastal Kitchen Monterey is an idyllic setting to enjoy inspirational fine dining. The culinary efforts are on display in the show kitchen and the service team is poised to offer impassioned explanations. Chef Michael Rotondo’s multi-coursed tasting menu focuses on sustainability and celebrates the bounty of the Monterey Bay and Central Coast. A wine pairing of thoughtfully curated wines selected by the Sommelier team is available to complement each captivating course. Additionally, we are also offering our Champagne Brunch on Sundays for 10am to 2pm.Dinner Menus: Multiple Course Tasting Menu starts at $145 per person (Tuesday to Saturday Evenings)3 Course Prix Fixe Menu $85 ( Tuesday to Thursday evenings)Champagne Brunch Prix Fixe Menu: $75 per person (Sundays from 10am to 2pm)Reservation Cancellation Policy: 24 Hours Prior to Reservation TimeLate Cancellation Fee: $50 per guest cancelation.
A photo of The Whaling Station Steakhouse restaurant
9. The Whaling Station Steakhouse
4.6
Exceptional(2454)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Monterey
Booked 17 times today
The internationally acclaimed Whaling Station Steakhouse, perched just above Steinbeck’s Cannery Row has been Monterey County’s #1 Steak House for over 50 years, The Whaling Station takes the term “Steakhouse” seriously...Select your USDA Prime cut of the USA’s finest beef from a silver tray or enjoy our slow-roasted USDA Prime, Prime Rib. An award-winning wine list and full spirits bar compliment your dining experience. Serving Dinner and cocktails from 4:30pm daily. The Bar at The Whaling Station Steakhouse has its own menu and its own local following, with drink specials and lively conversation served nightly. Parking in our private lot. A private, 50-seat banquet room is also available.
A photo of Rosine's Restaurant restaurant
10. Rosine's Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(610)
Price: Moderate
• American • Monterey
Booked 54 times today
Rosine's Restaurant, a family-owned local gem, has been turning traditional American comfort food into an art form for over 43 years. Known for their award-winning house-made desserts, it's a favorite among locals for its 'Best Comfort Food', 'Best Family Restaurant' and 'Best Desserts'. With a wide variety of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch options, they cater to every palate. One reviewer noted, 'The menu is quite impressive in length. The service was prompt. The food was well presented and the portions were generous.' Another said, 'Reservation a MUST! This restaurant is on the main road through downtown Monterey so it has a lot of food-traffic... so you'll feel awesome when you are seated immediately with your reservation.' So, whether you're in the mood for Eggs Benedicts, Chicken Parmesan, or a juicy Beef Minestrone soup, Rosine's Restaurant is worth the drive!

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Patrick
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Food was excellent. Wait to be seated 30 mins after reservation and then when seated needed to get attention of waitstaff for food and drink.
    More info
    Basil Seasonal DiningPrice: Expensive• Italian• Carmel
    •
    4.5
  • CrystiVIP
    Hawaii •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    This was our first time dining at Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar and we were extremely pleased! We had the most delicious dinner. We started with paté di anatra and tre mozzarelle. Our entrees were mezzaluna di zucca, pappardelle con bolognese di maiale, and 2 in our party ordered the rigatoni alla buttera. We finished with the housemade Gelato 3 mini scoops of pistachio, maraschino cherry, and vanilla, and one delectable affogato. Everything was absolutely delicious and the service was wonderful! We look forward to coming back again & again.
    More info
    Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar - Pacific GrovePrice: Moderate• Italian• Pacific Grove
    •
    4.9
  • UnjiVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    I had a fantastic dining experience at Dio Deka. This Greek-Mediterranean gem truly delivers on flavor and hospitality. The yogurt was absolutely delicious, and the sauce made with it was just as incredible—rich, tangy, and the perfect complement to the dishes. The little amuse-bouche surprises between courses were a great touch, making the meal feel extra special. As for the main dishes, the lamb chops were cooked to perfection—juicy, tender, and full of flavor. The meatballs were equally amazing, well-seasoned and so satisfying. On top of the great food, the service was outstanding. Our server was incredibly friendly, attentive, and made the experience even more enjoyable. I’ll definitely be coming back! Highly recommend this place if you’re looking for amazing Greek-Mediterranean food with warm hospitality.
    More info
    Dio DekaPrice: Very Expensive• Greek• Los Gatos
    •
    4.7
  • PaulVIP
    California Central Coast •42 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The food and service were terrific. Our server, Nick, was very friendly and helpful and had great suggestions for which menu items went well together, when they should be served and everything came in the order we requested , not too soon or too late. Nick also arranged for us to get some special items not on the menu. All-in - all a very special evening and a special meal. Thanks, Paul Best.
    More info
    Tarpy's RoadhousePrice: Moderate• American• Monterey
    •
    4.6
  • DanielVIP
    Los Angeles •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Great food and service with a beautiful atmosphere!
    More info
    Sierra Mar - Post Ranch InnPrice: Very Expensive• Organic• Big Sur
    •
    4.7

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Carmel

Discover the best dining experiences on the California Central Coast with our curated list of restaurants in Carmel, Monterey, and Carmel-by-the-Sea that are truly "worth the drive." These selected eateries stand out not just for their exceptional cuisine but also for their unique settings that capture the quintessential charm of the area. From cozy, family-run bistros to upscale establishments offering gourmet dishes, each restaurant provides a memorable gastronomic journey reflective of their local culture and culinary excellence. The dining scene in this region is renowned for its blend of sophisticated and casual dining atmospheres, catering to both refined palates and those seeking a relaxed meal with stunning views. Whether you're craving sumptuous French cuisine, authentic Italian dishes, or innovative local flavors, these restaurants promise an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Each location has been chosen for its commitment to quality, exceptional service, and a truly inviting atmosphere, ensuring that every visit is worth the drive. Enjoy the journey through scenic landscapes to reach destinations where every meal is prepared with passion and served with care. This guide is your gateway to exploring culinary delights that are not just meals, but memorable events that you'll want to revisit time and again.

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