Carmel special occasion restaurants

Question

Hi everyone! Wanted to ask for special occasion restaurant recommendations in Carmel, California. We will be celebrating a milestone wedding anniversary 🎉. Hubby doesn’t like sushi 😩 but otherwise open to all kinds of foods. Monterey would be fine too, but staying in Carmel. TIA!!

Answer

Carmel-by-the-Sea is full of charming and romantic spots perfect for celebrating a milestone wedding anniversary. Many restaurants focus on locally sourced ingredients, cozy atmospheres, and fine dining experiences. Since your husband isn’t a fan of sushi, there are plenty of options featuring California cuisine, seafood (non-sushi), steak, and international flavors.

Here are some top special occasion restaurant suggestions in Carmel and nearby Monterey:

La Bicyclette: A cozy European-style bistro with a rustic, romantic atmosphere. They serve French and Italian-inspired dishes with seasonal ingredients. Great for couples seeking a warm, intimate setting.
Casanova: Known as “Carmel’s most romantic restaurant,” Casanova serves French and Italian cuisine with an emphasis on local and organic ingredients. The courtyard seating adds a magical touch for special occasions.
Grasing’s: Upscale American cuisine with seafood, steaks, and locally sourced ingredients. Elegant yet relaxed, perfect for celebrating a milestone.
Porta Bella: Italian cuisine with a quaint, intimate atmosphere. Great for couples looking for a cozy dinner with excellent pasta and seafood dishes.

If you’re willing to venture slightly into Monterey:

Montrio Bistro: Located in downtown Monterey, this restaurant offers creative American cuisine with a contemporary flair. Stylish yet welcoming ambiance.
Restaurant 1833: Historic building with classic Californian cuisine and a romantic vibe, ideal for a special night out.
Old Fisherman’s Grotto: While more casual than the others, it’s iconic for its seafood dishes and waterfront views, perfect if you want a relaxed but memorable experience.

For a truly memorable evening, consider making reservations well in advance, requesting a quiet or window-side table, and perhaps pairing your meal with local Monterey Peninsula wines. Many of these restaurants also offer prix fixe or tasting menus, which can elevate the special occasion even more.

Carmel special occasion restaurants

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