Carmel

Bring a date to this casually chic French-Italian bistro in Carmel to impress somebody without looking like you’re trying.

Il Tegamino is a tiny Italian spot with a charming cobblestone patio and homemade pasta.

Chez Noir is a coastal cuisine restaurant that’s the hottest reservation in town.

Shearwater Tavern is a modern pub within a historic Carmel hotel that’s great for breakfast and Happy Hour.

This always-busy, counter-service cafe is perfect for a morning fuel-up.

Edwin’s Kaona is an energetic Filipino-Indonesian spot with live music and warm service.

Terry's Lounge is a restaurant and bar with retro bites and a great, dog-friendly patio.

Carmel mostly deals in seafood and European cuisine. Cultura, a dinner-only Oaxacan spot, is a welcome outlier.

Have a date night at Pangaea Grill in Carmel and ask for a table by the fireplace.

Seventh & Dolores is as perfect for a steak as it is for a pre-dinner cocktail at the bar.

Aubergine is a Carmel institution that's perfect for a very special occasion.

Yafa is a great choice for a casual Mediterranean lunch in Carmel.

Spend an afternoon wine tasting and snacking on charcuterie at Folktale Winery & Vineyards in Carmel.

Stop at Wagon Wheel Restaurant in Carmel for breakfast before a day of wine tasting.