FOOD Little Swiss Cafe is only open through lunch, but that still gives you time for a stack of pancakes. 6th and Dolores, Carmel. (831) 624-5007 R.G. Burgers Gourmet hamburgers are the mission here, where the Real Good (“RG”) burgers come in Western barbecue, Mediterranean and other styles. RG also serves bison, turkey and falafel burgers. 201 Crossroads Blvd., Carmel. (831) 626-8054, rgburgers.com The Cottage Traditional breakfast dishes with homey touches like waffles with walnuts—it’s a grandma thing—that you can also order for lunch. But why pass up egg salad sandwiches or patty melts? Lincoln between Ocean and 7th, Carmel. (831) 625-6260, cottagerestaurant. com Village Corner Bistro Things do change at this longstanding kitchen, but not too much. They still know a good old short stack from a full stack. And they can serve up a reuben that tastes of Brooklyn next to Monterey sand dabs. 6th and Dolores, Carmel. (831) 624-3588, carmelsvillagecorner.com FINE DINING/RESORT Aubergine With the Central Coast’s longest-running Michelin star—now with two stars—this is a 12-table gem of orchestrated excellence, along with a cellar which features a 3,500-bottle wine collection. The eight-course menu changes daily, based on the finest ingredients. L’Auberge Carmel, Monte Verde and 7th, Carmel. (831) 624-8578, auberginecarmel. com Chez Noir Opened in 2022 by kitchen standout Jonny Black, the restaurant earned a Michelin star in 2023 and was a finalist for a James Beard award in 2024. The menu strives to be hyperlocal. The chef likes to take advantage of local seafood and farm produce. But he also likes to forage, free dive and spearfish. Who knows what might end up on the plate. You just know it will be exquisite. 5th between Dolores and San Carlos, Carmel. cheznoircarmel.com Foray The emphasis here is on meticulous sourcing, local ingredients and finesse. For example, fresh black cod caught in Monterey Bay is then aged 14 days in-house. Call it approachable fine dining. It seems to fit. San Carlos and 5th, Carmel. (831) 250-6100, forayrestaurant. com Pacific’s Edge The timeless spot relaxes visitors with soulstirring ocean views, a huge wine list and award-winning cuisine. Even the simple dishes rely on French technique and the finest ingredients. 120 Highlands Drive, Carmel Highlands. (831) 622-5445, pacificsedge.com FRENCH/EUROPEAN Anton & Michel Anton & Michel is classic, right down to the gracious service. It’s the type of place where you expect to find duck breast, rainbow trout or New York steak, but also spring rolls with a fine dining touch. Mission between Ocean and 7th, Carmel. (831) 624-2406, antonandmichel.com Bistro Giovanni The bar is central, with a wraparound counter of mustard-hued cement where customers can drink, dine and chat. The food is California bistro style. San Carlos between 5th and 6th, Carmel. (831) 626-6003, carmelbistro.com WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 81 Spanish-Inspired CaliforniaCuisine Local, Seasonally Sourced Ingredients Locals’ Favorite! Gather around the table to experience Executive Chef Steven Patlan’s seasonal menu SUNDAY BRUNCH 9am–1:30pm BREAKFAST Monday–Friday 7–10am Saturday 8am–12pm DINNER Sunday–Thursday, 4:30–8:30pm Friday–Saturday, 4:30–9pm TAPAS HAPPY HOUR nightly, 4:30–6pm Weekly Specials Inside the Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa 700 Munras Avenue, Monterey | 831-375-0176 | estebanrestaurant.com
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