Diners' Choice: Best Overall restaurants in Monterey / Carmel

OpenTable

Updated May 05, 2026

Looking for the best overall restaurants in Monterey / Carmel? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Foray

4.7

4.7 (22)

$50 and over

Farm-to-table

Carmel

About the restaurant

Foray invites you to join the husband and wife team of Chef Michael and Sommelier Caroline, plus their truffle dog Falco, on a guided culinary tour of the Central Coast's forests and ocean - from the comfort of a dining room adorned with reclaimed Monterey Cypress, local red abalone shells and custom gyotaku artwork of their favorite local ingredients.

Top review

Celina

Dined on May 21, 2026

Second time back, same solid experience. My go to when guests come into town.

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Experience

Burgers & Burgundy Event @ Foray

Experience

Burgers & Burgundy Event @ Foray

Experience

Chef's Tasting Menu

Le Soufflé

4.9

4.9 (531)

$50 and over

French

Carmel

About the restaurant

**LUNCH ONLY MONDAY-FRIDAY STARTING AT 11:30AM- CLOSED SAT/SUN**
We are located in CARMEL, CALIFORNIA, USA. Reservations are only available through OpenTable up to 3 weeks in advance. Intimate indoor dining room can accommodate parties up to 4 guests- Menu changes seasonally- see website for current menu.

Le Soufflé is a fine dining restaurant serving a traditional French soufflé lunch menu. Everything is exclusively prepared by our Executive Chef/Co-Owner creating a very unique and finely crafted dining experience. The wine list offers a selection of wines from exquisite boutique producers in France and are all available by the glass or bottle. Our guests can look forward to an elegant escape when they step into our intimate and luxurious dining room. We are located on Dolores Street, just two blocks off Ocean Avenue in the beautiful village of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Top review

Austin

Dined 7 days ago

The food was incredible and the service was perfect. The execution and flavor was spot on for all of the dishes but we were really wowed by the souffles. Also really liked the attention to detail and the flatware. Can't wait to come back!

Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar - Pacific Grove

4.9

4.9 (1636)

$30 and under

Italian

Pacific Grove

About the restaurant

We are currently open for dine-in and outdoor heated sidewalk/patio.
We are always available for curbside pickup.
Welcome to Mezzaluna Pasteria and Mozzarella Bar. Chef Soerke and Amy invite you in to enjoy daily house made Pasta, Mozzarella and Gelato.
We offer a full bar with specialty cocktails.
Chef’s Specialties include
Buccatini Al’Amatriciana
Linguini alla Vongole
Chicken Sausage Lasagne
Spaghetti Carbonara
Grilled Octopus
Lamb Meatballs
House-made Charcuterie
Gnocchi with Gorgonzola Dolce Sauce & Black Truffle Oil
Little Gem Caesar Salad with Parmigiano Reggiano
Raviloi di Manzo
Pate di Anatra

Top review

Zaid

Dined 4 days ago

I had a wonderful experience at this pasta restaurant. The food was absolutely delicious, with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors in every dish. The pasta was cooked perfectly, and the sauces were rich, flavorful, and clearly made with care. The service was friendly, attentive, and welcoming from the moment we arrived. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it a great place for a casual dinner or a special occasion. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who loves great Italian food. I will definitely be coming back to try more items from the menu!

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Popular dish

Spaghetti alla Carbonara

Popular dish

Gnocchi di Patate

Popular dish

Rigatoni alla Buttera

L'Escargot - Carmel

4.8

4.8 (1402)

$30 and under

French

Carmel

About the restaurant

Nestled in a residential neighborhood on Mission Street, three blocks north of Ocean Avenue lies a slice of “Old Carmel”. Originally founded in 1958 by Yvan Nopert and his family, Chef – Owner Kericos Loutas carries on the traditions of superb Country French Cuisine and personalized friendly service. A local favorite for casual fine dining in a romantic atmosphere, L’Escargot offers visitors an alternative to the “tourist experience”. The menu changes frequently, as do the specials. A three-course prix fixed Bistro Menu is offered nightly.

Top review

DianeGold

Dined 4 days ago

The oldest restaurant in Carmel. Romantic and delicious!

La Mia Cucina

4.9

4.9 (1121)

$31 to $50

Italian

Pacific Grove

About the restaurant

Stroll along 17th St just above Lighthouse and you will find one of the Peninsula’s favorite spots, La Mia Cucina. This little jewel, with its clean ambiance and tantalizing menu, is popular with everyone. The colorful European advertising posters that enliven the walls, are originals, not reproductions. That phrase is accurate in describing La Mia Cucina itself with its personal and inviting service. From the comfortable linen white decor, accented beautifully by those turn-of-the-century posters, to the hand-crafted entrees and desserts, everything about La Mia Cucina says fresh and original. Owner Michael’s specialty, his handmade ravioli dishes are a local favorite, and for good reason. In addition to pasta, La Mia Cucina is known for its house made sausage, vibrant sauces and flavorful dressings all made in-house with family recipes. The desserts are made in-house by his wife Paula, and the soups and salads are a reflection of what is available at the local farmer's markets.

Top review

BillGold

Dined 4 days ago

Absolutely fabulous! I have recommended this restaurant to many friends. Everyone is thrilled and can’t wait to return. Can’t get any better!

Cella

4.8

4.8 (488)

$50 and over

Californian

Monterey

About the restaurant

Discover CELLA Restaurant + Bar at Cooper Molera Adobe in Downtown Monterey. Step into a sleek, historic venue with a heated pergola and stunning local woodwork. General Manager Lily Gonzales leads our remarkable staff. Explore our wine list and savor seasonal cocktails and mocktails crafted by Barkeep Joshua Perry. Chef Ben Spungin & Chef Tyler Eaves create an ever-changing menu inspired by the bountiful central coast. Join us and experience the neighborhood's culinary gem!

Top review

RebeccaGold

Dined 2 days ago

Everything was amazing as it has been every time we have been here. The cocktails, the food, the service absolutely outstanding!

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Coastal Kitchen Monterey

4.8

4.8 (443)

$50 and over

Farm-to-table

Monterey

About the restaurant

NOW SERVING SUNDAY BRUNCH!!

The Coastal Kitchen Monterey is an idyllic setting to enjoy inspirational fine dining. The culinary efforts are on display in the show kitchen and the service team is poised to offer impassioned explanations.

Chef Michael Rotondo’s multi-coursed tasting menu focuses on sustainability and celebrates the bounty of the Monterey Bay and Central Coast. A wine pairing of thoughtfully curated wines selected by the Sommelier team is available to complement each captivating course.

Additionally, we are also offering our Champagne Brunch on Sundays for 10am to 2pm.

Dinner Menus: Multiple Course Tasting Menu starts at $155 per person (Tuesday to Saturday Evenings)
3 Course Prix Fixe Menu $95 ( Tuesday to Thursday evenings)
Champagne Brunch Prix Fixe Menu: $75 per person (Sundays from 10am to 1pm)
Reservation Cancellation Policy: 24 Hours Prior to Reservation Time
Late Cancellation Fee: $50 per guest cancelation.

Top review

cheryl

Dined 4 days ago

This was not just dinner, this was an amazing experience. The food was absolutely delicious, creatively composed and presented beautifully. The wine pairing was superb. A very special experience!

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Experience

Coastal Cellar Series: Carmel Coast AVA

NORA'S

4.8

4.8 (262)

$30 and under

Comfort Food

Carmel

About the restaurant

Welcome to Nora’s Carmel

Tucked away in the heart of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, Nora’s is a cozy, family-owned gem serving up elevated comfort cuisine with a Carmel twist. Located on San Carlos Street between Ocean Avenue & 7th Street, our charming space features warm, inviting colors, intimate booth seating, and a beautiful outdoor patio complete with a gentle fountain, perfect for a relaxed lunch or romantic evening under the stars.

Chef-crafted dishes reflect the culinary expertise honed at the renowned Anton & Michel, bringing both creativity and comfort to every plate. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you’ll feel right at home with our friendly service, homey ambiance, and heartfelt food.
Come experience comfort, charm, and community – the Nora’s way.

Top review

MICHAEL

Dined 6 days ago

The owner of this restaurant makes it what it is. He is outgoing and very friendly to all customers but most importantly also to his employees. Leading by example, all of his employees exhibit the same to the customers. Great food, great ambiance and my favorite restaurant in Carmel. We have been here a month and sadly will not be able to return (after 5 visits) as we leave for San Diego tomorrow. Cannot overstate what a great restaurant this is. Don't miss it!

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House Chicken Pot Pie

Patisserie Boissiere Restaurant

4.8

4.8 (539)

$30 and under

French

Carmel

About the restaurant

Walk-ins' are taken starting at 11:30 am. Reservations accepted for dinner only, and walk-ins' accepted when possible.

Fifty eight years ago, Elaine and Pierre Boissiere established their eponymous restaurant at its current location, years before Carmel Plaza shopping center was built around it. They sought to offer the city of Carmel-by-the-Sea a relaxing and comforting venue modeled after a European chateau where tables are thoughtfully spaced and fresh flowers, fireplace, candles and soothing musical notes are integral part of the dining experience. The ambience sets the tone for French country food served with a great deal of care for detail and pastries baked daily on premises. It is a testament to their far sightedness that Patisserie Boissiere Restaurant continues to fulfill their vision to this day.

Top review

Mariah

Dined 1 day ago

Such a great, unique spot! Delicious food and family-owned feel.

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Popular dish

French Onion Soup Gratinee

Popular dish

Classic Beef Bourguignon

Popular dish

French Onion

La Bicyclette

4.8

4.8 (52)

$31 to $50

French

Carmel

About the restaurant

La Bicyclette features European Country Cuisine, hand-crafted using local ingredients and old world artistry. Our food is simple and spontaneous, blending flavors and cooking techniques in a way that is rooted in tradition yet creative.

Our menu is updated weekly, allowing us to make use of the freshest locally sourced ingredients. The kitchen is tiny, with all food prepared on a six burner stove and in our wood-fired oven.

Top review

mary

Dined 3 days ago

We loved everything about this amazing restaurant. It was highly recommended to us in numerous times prior to our visit. We tried a variety of the foods and wines and all agree that the gnocchi is a must have! It is fabulous. The ambience is amazing and the area is just beautiful. Our service was above and beyond.

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