By The Editors By The Editors | June 28, 2023 | Lifestyle, Feature, Guides,
Paradise does exist. For Northern Californians, Carmel is only a drive away.
Where to Stay
With 40 hotels and inns, choices in accommodations spoil travelers. Cypress Inn is a mainstay known for its luxurious furnishings, dog-friendly attitude and elevated services. For an equally four-legged friendly but more laid-back stay, visitors check in to the cottages of Forest Lodge.
Out-of-towners looking for more than just a day or two in paradise can book a short- or long-term stay with Sanctuary Vacation Rentals. As Carmel’s premier vacation home rental agency, Sanctuary Vacation Rentals curates a roster of homes that will delight even the most discerning traveler.
Sanctuary Vacation Rentals
Where to Eat
With more than 60 restaurants, ranging from casual to elegant, Carmel is a food lover’s dream. Casual dining spots are anything but ordinary in Carmel. A great place to sample some of the best food in town is the Carmel Plaza.
Dutch Door Donut’s menu features classic options and tastebud-bending offerings like quince glazed with truffle gouda cheese, pistachio cardamom and toasted almond sesame cinnamon. Café Luna serves specialty coffees (don’t miss the caramel macchiato), tea drinks, indulgent pastries, sandwiches, salads, and profoundly satisfying ramen bowls.
For creating the ultimate beach picnic, the Cheese Shop Wine & Gourmet at Carmel Plaza offers cheese, charcuterie, wine, preserves, crackers, and chocolates.
Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro, with its award-winning beers and killer pub grub, make the brewery a must-visit.
A stunning salad from La Bicyclette
Locals go to La Bicyclette for the restaurant’s lovingly made dishes featuring local ingredients, charming atmosphere, and stellar wine list. With a menu that always includes exceptional specials, La Bicyclette is known for its steak au poivre, champignons provencale and wood-oven pizzas. The tiny but mighty kitchen consistently serves memorable European Country Cuisine.
The Forge in the Forest is historically significant and enticing. The restaurant, which has operated in its current location since 1944, offers fresh and satisfying menu items and an innovative cocktail list. With a glorious patio and even a canine menu, Forge is a welcoming Carmel institution.
For anyone looking for a restaurant to come to them, consider Mobile Paella chef Brandon Miller. More than just a dining experience, chef Brandon is a showman who will bring his mobile paella to backyards and gardens for parties of 10 or more people.
Where to Shop
Carmel’s tree-lined, winding streets make for the most enjoyable shopping experience. Wanderers discover treasures around every corner, and secret passageways reveal unique finds. When guests visit Ami Carmel, they receive a warm welcome, coffee, and cookies, making a trip here feel like a visit with a loved one.
For fashion, venture to Girl Boy Girl. Boutique assistants can discern a shopper’s inner fashion desires and are always available to offer styling advice.
Photography by: Courtesy of Sanctuary Property Rental; Courtesy of Sanctuary Property Rental; Courtesy of La Bicyclette