Carmel-by-the-Sea is about as charming as a town can get. Shops, restaurants, and hotels are just a few (steep!) blocks from the ocean, flowers line the boulevard and the local candy shop is constantly making fresh fudge. Every corner of is adorable. Sidewalks are dotted with tables and chairs just begging you to sit down for a nice meal, but for a relatively small town, there are lots of restaurants to choose from. Below, our 4 favorite for a cozy date night dinner.
Le Bicyclette
Easily our favorite restaurant in town, the space at Le Bicyclette is as charming as the food is delicious. Whether you’re at one of the sidewalk tables or dining indoors, the ambiance can’t be beat. The food is incredible and you must start with a cheese and charcuterie plate while you peruse the wine list. The gnocchi, mussels, and oysters are all amazing as a second course but the pizza is the real star. Get a few and take home whatever you don’t finish for a midnight snack.
Grasings
A local favorite, don’t skip on an order of abalone. It’s such a treat! Whether you go for brunch, lunch, or dinner you are guaranteed to have a lovely meal, featuring mostly local ingredients that shine in Grasings California cuisine.
Cultura COmida y bebida
Prepare yourself for some delicious Mexican food and some killer margaritas here! It’s also a great spot for a double date because so much of the food is shareable. Do not sleep on the churros & fondue for dessert!
Enzo
A cozy little Italian place, you’ll likely walk past the owners speaking Italian on the way in. You can’t go wrong with any of the pastas but we also got a couple pizzas and weren’t disappointed! Enzo is also a lovely spot for an afternoon lunch at one of the sidewalk tables, and pairs perfectly with a crisp glass of rosè.
