FOOD In the Valley: Baja Cantina and Grill and Filling Station Southwestern Baja Cantina features Southwestern/Mexican cuisine and a sunny setting that makes it easy to linger over brunch. The back decks are a place to enjoy the frequent sun. 7166 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel. (831) 625-2252, carmelcantina.com Bear + Flag Roadside Diner Define the phrase “modern California roadside eatery.” If you need some help, think a top chef using good ingredients to bring sandwiches, burgers and other simple fare—pimento cheese and crackers—to an unheard of level. Craft beers and local wines. 7152 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel. (831) 293-8608, bearandflagroadside.com Covey Grill International The chef here has Michelin talent, but does not want that kind of attention. Rather, he would like locals, guests and members to give the elegant, approachable menu the accolades. The list will change, but think porterhouse steaks to a standout burger, with bits of seasonal creativity. 8205 Valley Greens Drive (Quail Lodge), Carmel. (866) 675-1101, quaillodge.com Jeffrey’s Grill & Catering American If you wonder where everyone is on a Sunday morning in Carmel Valley—or pretty much any other morning to early afternoon—they are crowded into Jeffrey’s. There’s something for everyone on the menu. 112 Mid Valley Center, Carmel. (831) 624-2029, jeffreysgrillandcatering.com Lucia Restaurant International Lucia is one of the county’s Zagat-rated dining rooms and a frequent choice for Best Restaurant by Weekly readers—for good reason; the cooking is done with rare finesse. Both menu and cocktail lineup changes regularly. Bernardus Lodge, 415 W. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley. (831) 658-3400, bernarduslodge.com/wine-cuisine Valley Kitchen International The kitchen is known for modern takes on farm-fresh fare in a resort setting. Drawing inspiration from the property’s own honey, lavender, chickens and garden, the chef’s creations are an expression of fresh ingredients in perfect balance. 1 Old Ranch Road, Carmel. (831) 626-2599, carmelvalleyranch.com Wagon Wheel Diner There is nothing wrong with a plate of pancakes or an all-American burger. And quiche— who doesn’t find a slice comforting? 7156 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel. (831) 624-8878 Woody’s at Carmel Valley Athletic Club Diner A salad and sandwich menu from the folks at Woody’s (see below). Note: non-club members are welcome at the cafe. 27300 Rancho San Carlos Road, Carmel. (831) 624-2737, woodysmontereyairport.com Woody’s at Del Mesa American See listing under Woody’s at the Airport, Monterey. Note: Del Mesa is a gated community, but the staff will let guests through. 200 Del Mesa Drive, Carmel. (831) 624-1854, woodysmontereyairport.com 88 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® 2025-2026 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner • 580 Broadway Ave • Seaside • 831-583-0411 Authentic Mexican Seafood TASTE THE TRADITION! TRY OUR CANTARITO An agave cocktail made with grapefruit soda and citrus Mariscos_1-2h_VG23_KB.indd 1 6/13/23 11:35 AM
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