Best Southwest American Restaurants in Carmel

26 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Nicolas Cocina de Herencia restaurant

1. Nicolas Cocina de Herencia

4.7

Exceptional(284)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Carmel

Booked 22 times today

Reservations are not needed but are recommended, Walk ins are Welcome.The newest creation from the owners of the beloved Villa Azteca in Downtown Salinas (Salinas City Center), the eatery honoring the Alvarez family patriarch will open Summer 2023 in Carmel Plaza. The 5,000-square-foot restaurant will have indoor dining, bar seating and a small outdoor space, serving specialty Michoacán dishes as well as other Mexican favorites, incorporating three generations of family recipes.

A photo of Enzo Ristorante Italiano restaurant

2. Enzo Ristorante Italiano

4.5

Awesome(452)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Carmel

Booked 23 times today

Nestled in the charming streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Enzo Ristorante Italiano offers an authentic slice of Italy, right down to its roots in Calabria. Guests are consistently wowed by dishes such as "the best Bolognese I have ever had" and the "pillow soft gnocchi." The ambiance, described as "cozy and simplistic," perfectly complements the high-quality, authentic Italian cuisine, making every dining experience memorable. With accolades like "one of the best restaurants in Carmel," and rave reviews about their "world-renown wine list" and the unforgettable crab ravioli, Enzo Ristorante Italiano stands out as a beacon of Italian culinary excellence. Whether it's the heartfelt service or the "delicate, rich, full-bodied" flavors, Enzo crafts not just meals, but memories.

A photo of The Hog's Breath Inn - Carmel restaurant

3. The Hog's Breath Inn - Carmel

4.3

Awesome(1034)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Carmel

Booked 24 times today

Welcome to The Hog's Breath Inn in Carmel, a Steakhouse renowned for its exceptional cuisine and deep-rooted charm. Formerly owned by Clint Eastwood, this establishment continues to delight both locals and visitors with its quality and ambiance. Diners consistently praise the Steakhouse for its "great steakhouse cuisine" and "exceptional food," making every meal a memorable experience. As one reviewer remarked, the food is "worth every bite," showcasing the authenticity and mastery behind each dish. The Inn's inviting atmosphere, combined with outstanding service and a touch of Hollywood nostalgia, ensures every visit is uniquely special. Join us at The Hog's Breath Inn for a taste of the best steaks in Carmel, where every dish tells a story of culinary excellence.

A photo of Sur at The Barnyard restaurant

4. Sur at The Barnyard

4.5

Awesome(507)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Carmel Valley

Booked 40 times today

Sur at The Barnyard, crowned "Best Restaurant in Carmel Valley 2023," is a haven for steak lovers nestled in the scenic Barnyard Shopping Village, Carmel-by-the-Sea. Patrons rave about their exceptional steak offerings, with one diner exclaiming, "The Kona steak was sooo good, highly recommend!" The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in their use of local ingredients, ensuring each steak is not just a meal but a showcase of the region's finest produce. The ambiance pairs perfectly with the meticulously prepared dishes, making every visit a memorable dining experience. Whether it's the friendly, top-notch service or the perfectly cooked steaks, Sur at The Barnyard promises a sublime culinary journey.

5. Pacific's Edge

4.5

Awesome(3386)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Carmel

Booked 62 times today

Pacific's Edge in Carmel Highlands is a gem for those seeking top-notch Contemporary American cuisine. Perched on the breathtaking California coastline, this restaurant pairs its stunning views with a culinary experience that's both innovative and deeply rooted in local flavors. Diners rave about the "outstanding" Halibut and the "excellent" rack of lamb, highlighting the kitchen's mastery in elevating classic American dishes with a modern twist. The atmosphere is described as "mesmerizing," making every meal a memorable event. As one reviewer puts it, the combination of "amazing food, service, and view is, over the top, the very best ever!" making Pacific's Edge a must-visit for anyone in or visiting Carmel.

A photo of Chart House Restaurant - Monterey restaurant

6. Chart House Restaurant - Monterey

4.4

Awesome(6884)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Monterey

Booked 85 times today

Chart House Restaurant in Monterey is a gem for those seeking authentic American cuisine with a unique flair. Known for its stunning ocean views and impeccable service, Chart House offers a dining experience that is both delightful and memorable. Their menu, featuring classics like the prime rib and innovative dishes such as the Kimchee calamari, highlights the quality and creativity that the chefs bring to each meal. Guests rave about the "amazing salad bar" and the "best lobster bisque ever," showcasing the restaurant's commitment to freshness and quality. The Hot Chocolate Lava Cake is a must-try, described as the perfect finale to a "wonderful dining experience." Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, Chart House's blend of excellent food, service, and ambiance makes it a top choice for American dining in Monterey.

7. Montrio

4.6

Exceptional(4217)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Monterey

Booked 31 times today

Montrio in downtown Monterey is a gem for Californian cuisine enthusiasts, delivering an exquisite dining experience that captures the essence of California's rich culinary landscape. Celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing, Montrio highlights the best of Monterey County's produce, sustainable seafood, and quality meats. Reviewers rave about the authenticity and innovation of the dishes. One diner exclaimed, "The food was amazing, especially the Jidori chicken," showcasing the restaurant's dedication to quality and flavor. Another noted, "We had a lovely dinner...the lobster bisque and pork chop with apple were outstanding," emphasizing Montrio's skill in elevating local ingredients into culinary masterpieces. This spot is a must-visit for anyone seeking the true taste of Californian fare in a historic and inviting setting.

A photo of Rosine's Restaurant restaurant

8. Rosine's Restaurant

4.5

Awesome(577)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Monterey

Booked 57 times today

Rosine's Restaurant in Monterey is a haven for comfort food enthusiasts, offering an exceptional blend of American and Italian classics that have delighted locals and visitors alike for over four decades. Celebrated for turning traditional comfort food into an art form, Rosine’s garners acclaim for its "fresh, tasty, and high-quality ingredients" as noted by diners. The restaurant has been featured on Guy Fieri's "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives," highlighting its culinary prowess. From their famous Beef Minestrone soup to the Chicken Parmesan and Lasagna, each dish is crafted to perfection. Guests rave about the generous portions and the "house-made desserts" which have won multiple local awards for Best Desserts and Best Comfort Food. Whether it’s the warm ambiance or the impeccable service, Rosine’s is the go-to spot in Monterey for a comforting meal that feels like home.

9. Passionfish

4.8

Exceptional(7235)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Pacific Grove

Booked 34 times today

At the heart of Pacific Grove, Passionfish stands out as a beacon of American cuisine with a California twist. This restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and a menu that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients. Diners consistently rave about the "spectacular" food and the "amazing" wine list, noting the fair pricing that sets Passionfish apart. The crab salad and duck confit come highly recommended, with guests describing them as "not to be missed" and "the best I've ever had." It's the combination of skilled preparation, innovative dishes, and a cozy atmosphere that makes Passionfish a culinary gem. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Passionfish promises an exceptional dining experience that captures the essence of American dining with every dish.

A photo of Beach House Restaurant at Lovers Point restaurant

10. Beach House Restaurant at Lovers Point

4.6

Exceptional(4304)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Pacific Grove

Booked 47 times today

Nestled in the picturesque Pacific Grove, Beach House Restaurant at Lovers Point offers a quintessential Californian dining experience that captivates both the palate and the eyes. With its casual yet sophisticated ambiance, this restaurant is a haven for those who cherish excellent food paired with stunning ocean views. Patrons rave about dishes such as the "delicious Scallop 'Pot Pie'" and the "best ever" lobster ravioli, highlighting the freshness and authenticity of the local cuisine. "The food is amazing always. If you can go during sunset and have a table on the window you will not regret!" exclaims a satisfied diner. Whether it's the attentive service, the thoughtful presentation of food, or the vibrant flavors, Beach House Restaurant consistently delivers an unforgettable Californian culinary journey.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Carmel

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26 restaurants available nearby

1. Nicolas Cocina de Herencia

2. Enzo Ristorante Italiano

3. The Hog's Breath Inn - Carmel

4. Sur at The Barnyard

5. Pacific's Edge

6. Chart House Restaurant - Monterey

7. Montrio

8. Rosine's Restaurant

9. Passionfish

10. Beach House Restaurant at Lovers Point

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