56 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® 2026-2027 DRINKS Bud’s at La Playa The renovated Bud’s is known for two things, one old and one new. The new is a list of specialty cocktails. But they kept the cherished Dime Time, a daily 10-minute happy hour called at the bartender’s discretion where drinks cost 10 cents and must be paid for with dimes. So pocket change is useful, after all. Camino Real and 8th, Carmel. (831) 2936100, budscarmel.com Chez Noir When was the last time you had a stellar cocktail made with rhubarb and caraway? That’s possible at this small bar in one of the top restaurants, although the list of specialty creations is always changing based on the season. Yes, you can also get an old-fashioned Old Fashioned, too. 5th between Dolores and San Carlos, Carmel. cheznoircarmel.com Cultura Comida y Bebida Cultura is a dining destination, but it’s the Bebida part that matters here. Skillfully crafted cocktails that lean on mezcal are the biggest draw to their elegantly appointed bar. Dolores between 5th and 6th, Carmel. (831) 250-7005, culturacarmel.com Hatch A cool bar space new in 2026. Margaritas are the signature cocktail here. 3658 The Barnyard, Carmel. (831) 330-2332, hatchcarmel.com Links Club Come to the Monterey Peninsula and play the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links—without ever leaving the bar. How is that for handy? Links Club features craft beers on tap, a selection of local wines, craft cocktails and some 200 golf courses to play on high-tech simulation screens. Ocean and Mission (in the Carmel Plaza), Carmel. (831) 250-7816, linksclubgolf. com Mission Ranch Clint Eastwood’s historic Mission Ranch is a popular draw, owing to its four fireplaces, classy drink selection, sassy tinkling of the piano bar and a patio with sweeping views. 26270 Dolores St., Carmel. (831) 625-9040, missionranchcarmel.com Mulligan Public House A gathering spot for drinks, conversation and a good time. The bar shakes worthy cocktails. Plus, there’s a full pub menu. Dolores between Ocean and 7th, Carmel. (831) 250-5910, mulliganspublichouse.com O’Callaghan’s Irish Pub When a name includes the phrase “Irish pub,” you know what to expect. Yes, beer, whiskey and fun. 3772 The Barnyard, Carmel. (831) 625-5500, ocallaghanscarmel.com Rio Grill The restaurant seems to go on and on inside, but the bar at the front is a well defined, comfortable space where Carmel business lunches (and business happy hours) sound like serious fun. 101 The Crossroads, Carmel. (831) 625-5436, riogrill.com Seventh & Dolores Steakhouse Tucked in one corner of this busy steakhouse is a bar worthy of a crystal-clear gin martini (is there any other kind?). But the bar staff are also innovative, so it’s a good place to appreciate the art of the cocktail. 7th and Dolores, Carmel. (831) 293-7600, 7dsteakhouse.com Shearwater Tavern The renovated lounge spot, with its stock of scotches and martinis, (very) happy hour lures an in-the-know crowd (it’s a true hidden gem with that rarest of features: parking). 3665 Rio Road, Carmel. (831) 624-1841, carmelmissioninn.com Sunset Lounge The stunning view of Point Lobos from this hilltop lounge is matched by its award-winning wine menu. Enjoy designer craft cocktails and chairs on the fireplace patio. Located four miles south of Rio Road. 120 Highlands Drive, Highway 1, Carmel. (831) 622-5445, highlandsinn.hyatt.com Terry’s Lounge Cozy up to the bar inside Cypress Inn, where locals are welcome alongside hotel guests (and everybody’s dogs are invited to this canine-friendly spot too). Classic cocktails are the go-to here, and can be consumed at the bar, in the courtyard or next to a lobby fireplace. Lincoln and 7th, Carmel. (831) 6207454, carmelterrys.com BREWERIES Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro See listing under Monterey. Mission between Ocean and 7th (Carmel Plaza), Carmel. (831) 293-8621, asb.beer Hidden Hills Brewing & Blending The taproom for the craft brewery offers a rotating list of brews, from IPAs to porters and stouts and seasonal beers. The brewmaster is also known for bringing big flavor to lighter beers. And they press ciders, too. 3777 The Barnyard, Carmel. (831) 250-7311, hiddenhillscarmel.com Carmel Valley BARS Baja Cantina Margaritas are the go-to item here and they come in lots of variations, but the bar offers options for all stripes, best enjoyed alongside Mexican-inspired plates, either indoors or on the sunny outdoor patio. 7166 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley. (831) 625-2252, carmelcantina.com Lucia Restaurant & Bar The bartenders here have access to the gardens, orchards and beehives of Bernardus Lodge and make full use of them in their creative, seasonal cocktails. The decor is simple, but the drinks stand apart. 415 W. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley. (831) 658-3400, bernarduslodge.com Running Iron Restaurant & Saloon Sure, there is a restaurant. But “saloon” is also very prominent in the name. Running Iron has been a favorite watering hole for decades. 24 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley. (831) 659-4633, runningironcv.com Alvarado Street Taproom DANIEL DREIFUSS
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