FOOD cocktails), it’s hard to tire of this restaurant. Go from rack of lamb to Thai coconut curry to kalbi. Ocean between Lincoln and Dolores, Carmel. (831) 624-2569, pangaeagrillcarmel. com Pizza Heaven Pizza Keep it simple with a classic like pepperoni, build your own, try one of their specialty pies or go plum crazy with an exotic offering. Thai curry pizza, anyone? Duck confit? They have it here. 8th between San Carlos and Mission, Carmel. (831) 574-8529, pizzaheavencarmel. com PortaBella International Here you can choose between European and American classics, paired with a glass of California wine. There is an elegance to the preparations. Ocean between Lincoln and Monte Verde, Carmel. (831) 624-4395, portabellacarmel.com Promesa Spanish Set in a handsome, inviting villa, Promesa offers tapas—as simple as marcona almonds dressed in olive oil and Maldon sea salt or as expressive as ham croquettes—cheeses, charcuterie and a few main plates. Mission between 5th and 6th, Carmel. (831) 5748665, promesacarmel.com R.G. Burgers 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 Restaurant at Mission Ranch Steakhouse Given the plump sheep grazing on greenery against dramatic views of Point Lobos, there’s plenty of charm to go around at Clint Eastwood’s Mission Ranch. Mission Ranch Hotel, 26270 Dolores St., Carmel. (831) 6259040, missionranchcarmel.com. Rio Grill Southwestern A vibrant, lively atmosphere complements Rio Grill’s innovative mix of California and Southwest regional cuisine, with a spread of evolving dishes. A reliable restaurant. Worthy cocktails, too. 101 Crossroads Blvd., Carmel. (831) 625-5436, riogrill.com Seventh & Dolores Steakhouse This boutique steakhouse fashions itself as a temple of meat and wine—and mixology designed “to keep boring people away.” As elegant as caviar, as casual as a bowl of grits. But the focus is on wet- and dry-aged steaks. 7th and Dolores, Carmel. (831) 293-7600, 7dsteakhouse.com Shearwater Tavern American One of the county’s hidden gems, the kitchen will surprise you by bringing refinement to the simple. Staple dishes, such as grilled salmon or pasta, plus a few less expected bonuses. 3665 Rio Road at Highway 1 (in Carmel Mission Inn), Carmel. (831) 624-1841, carmelmissioninn.com Stationæry Varied This tucked away place started a buzz thanks to its changing menu and lively but cozy atmosphere. The fare is simple yet has an elegance (lobster rolls, for instance, that can be dressed with caviar). San Carlos between 5th and 6th, Carmel. (831) 250-7183, thestationaery.com Sur Varied There is an emphasis on comfort fare served up in generous portions, but also rice bowls and global flavors. They haven’t downsized cocktails, last we checked. 3601 The Barnyard, Carmel. (831) 250-7188, surcarmel. com Sushi Heaven Japanese This cozy Carmel sushi joint gets a following for its seafood, complex flavors, creative presentation and friendly service. Dolores between 7th and 8th, Carmel. (831) 6252067, sushiheavencarmel.com The Cottage Diner 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 The Pocket Varied The Pocket aims for comfort done well. Think grilled meat and fish (and asparagus), pasta—familiar fare. The menu changes with the seasons, and there is a happy hour menu featuring quick bites. Lincoln between 5th and 6th, Carmel. (831) 626-8000, thepocketcarmel.com Tommy’s Wok Chinese You can order dishes that are inspired by Hunan and Szechuan flavors. Or go with traditional dishes done Tommy-style. Mission between Ocean and 7th, Carmel. (831) 6248518, tommyswokcarmel.com 84 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® 2025-2026 A CANNERY ROW TRADITION PIZZA SEAFOOD PASTA 660 Cannery Row 2nd Level of Steinbeck Plaza on Cannery Row louielinguinis.com 831-648-8500 FREE Clam Chowder Present this COUPON and receive ONE CUP of our Award-Winning Clam Chowder with the purchase of an entree. Limit two per table. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Code: CRVG Trip Advisor Lunch & Dinner Daily Expires 6/30/26 ouie_1-3v_VG25_gk.indd 1 6/5/25 12:56 PM
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