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Carmel caters to a wide range of appetites and there is an abundance of good food to be found in this coastal town. These 7 restaurants not to miss in Carmel were some of my favorite when I recently ventured into the quaint town for the weekend.

7 Restaurants Not to Miss in Carmel

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Take a peak at these restaurants for your next trip to Carmel, California!

7 Restaurants Not to Miss in Carmel


1. La Bicyclette Restaurant
Nestled right in the hub of downtown Carmel and mere blocks from the beach sits La Bicyclette, a cozy bistro offering French-Italian fare in a wonderfully inviting and warm atmosphere. They source their ingredients locally and keep their kitchen small so they can experiment with blending flavors and testing out new cooking techniques that will keep you on your toes.

7 Restaurants Not to Miss in Carmel

2. La Balena
Hidden away in an outdoor urban nook, La Balena is a local favorite that many tourists miss. The atmosphere is unrivaled and the artisanal Italian dishes are to die for. Take the road less travelled and book a table at this restaurant for an exceptional evening and a great last evening in Carmel-by-the-sea.

3. Brophy’s Tavern
One of my favorite places for atmosphere, I love to come here for a fun evening out spent over good food. It’s traditional pub menu with a lively team!

7 Restaurants Not to Miss in Carmel

4. Cantinetta Luca
For all those in favor of Italian fare, Cantinetta Luca offers authentic Italian cuisine crafted from local farmers and purveyors and accompany their food selection with a wide range of solely Italian wines. Rustic, fresh and seasonal this is a staple food stop.

5. Mission Ranch Restaurant
Located inside a Carmel hotel, you’ll find yourself on Clint Eastwood’s turf should you venture to this farmhouse above the foothills. If you can, reserve a table for two at sunset  and down you drinks gazing across the warmly-lit expanse as the sun sets to the sounds of the piano by the bar.

6. Pescadero Mexican Restaurant
Their space is beautiful and there food is incredible. I love the Mezcal drinks and classic dishes here!

7 Restaurants Not to Miss in Carmel

7. Mundaka
A tapas-style restaurant for those drawn to the cultural experience attributed to Spain. Did I mention they serve Sangria?

If you’re making your way up the California coast and venturing into Northern California check out my post 9 Awesome Airbnbs For a Weekend in Northern California for accommodations.


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7 Restaurants Not to Miss in Carmel

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1. Book Your Accommodations

I use Booking.com for hotels and Airbnb for vacation rentals. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

2. Book Your Rental Car

Self-driving is the best way to explore most destinations. I use Discover Cars for our rental cars, select full coverage insurance, and opt for a reputable company like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

I use Viator, Airbnb, and Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check all three as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

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For easy, reliable private transfers, I use Welcome Pickups. It’s my go-to for arranging a driver in advance — whether it’s an airport pickup, a hotel-to-hotel transfer, or a day trip. The experience is seamless, with English-speaking drivers and upfront pricing, so you can travel stress-free at every stage of your trip.

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I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, or cancellations).

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:


Xx,
Jessica

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