Nestled along the breathtaking coastline of California, Carmel Highlands stands as a serene and picturesque haven known for its stunning vistas, rugged cliffs, and a unique blend of natural beauty and sophistication. As an extension of the renowned Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Highlands embodies an ethereal charm that seamlessly integrates with the area’s coastal magnificence.
From casual coastal eateries to sophisticated dining destinations, the region boasts a spectrum of culinary delights that perfectly complement the area's natural beauty. If you’re feeling hungry, read on to explore the best restaurants near Carmel Highlands.
Pacific’s Edge
120 Highlands Dr, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
Nestled along the rugged cliffs in Carmel Highlands just 0.7 miles from Carmel Highlands, Pacific’s Edge emerges as a culinary gem, offering an unparalleled dining experience against the breathtaking backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. This highly esteemed restaurant in Highlands Inn captures the essence of coastal elegance while delighting guests with exceptional cuisine, stunning views, and a serene, intimate atmosphere.
Pacific’s Edge boasts a vantage point like no other, treating diners to sweeping panoramic views of the majestic Pacific. With floor-to-ceiling windows, the restaurant sets the stage for an awe-inspiring dining experience, where the horizon seems to meld seamlessly with the artistry of the dishes presented.
The innovative culinary team here creates truly exceptional dishes from locally sourced ingredients, with menu standouts like the smoked salmon bagel with cream cheese for breakfast, the Bigoli lobster ravioli with fresh herbs for lunch, and the pan-seared Pacific halibut filet over citrus risotto for dinner. The rugged coastline, crashing waves, and the ethereal play of the sun against the water create an ever-changing canvas that amplifies the sophisticated yet unpretentious ambiance of the dining space.
The Sunset Lounge
120 Highlands Dr, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
As another exquisite dining destination in Highlands Inn, The Sunset Lounge offers nothing short of an incredible meal paired with truly fantastic views. Enjoy a dish of calamari rings, seafood ravioli with seared shrimp, or a “fresh catch sandwich” with brioche bun out on their signature glass-enclosed lounge, where you’ll encounter incredible sunset vistas. The Sunset Lounge also hosts live music and features an extensive cocktail menu of the lavender lemon drop vodka, Santa Lucia sour double rye, and espresso martini.
SUR at the Barnyard
3601 The Barnyard Ste A-21, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
Situated in the heart of the Barnyard Shopping Village, SUR at the Barnyard beckons guests with its trendy atmosphere and eclectic menu that celebrates endless flavors. The establishment offers an elegant yet relaxed setting, where innovative dishes meet a welcoming ambiance. Patrons can delight in an array of cuisines, from Mediterranean-inspired fare to sensational seafood and Southern fried chicken and waffles. SUR at the Barnyard also offers sparkling wines, whites, and reds by the bottle.
Situated in the heart of the Barnyard Shopping Village, SUR at the Barnyard beckons guests with its trendy atmosphere and eclectic menu that celebrates endless flavors. The establishment offers an elegant yet relaxed setting, where innovative dishes meet a welcoming ambiance. Patrons can delight in an array of cuisines, from Mediterranean-inspired fare to sensational seafood and Southern fried chicken and waffles. SUR at the Barnyard also offers sparkling wines, whites, and reds by the bottle.
From Scratch Restaurant
3626 The Barnyard Building C, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
Just 3.5 miles north of Carmel Highlands, From Scratch Restaurant embodies the essence of farm-to-table dining in a cozy, rustic setting, offering all-day breakfast and lunch in the Barnyard Shopping Village. This beloved restaurant, which opened in 1977, was featured in season 21 of the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. With a focus on using fresh, local produce, the menu boasts a delightful mix of dishes. Try a morning jumpstart with their fresh organic coffee, “from-scratch” cinnamon roll pancakes, or the steel-cut oatmeal bowl with raisins, brown sugar, and steamed milk. The lunch menu includes amazing selections like the smoked BBQ beef brisket, the albacore tuna melt with secret spices, and the house-made brisket chili with green onions. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and taste is reflected in its array of handmade dishes, celebrating the simplicity and purity of each ingredient.
Just 3.5 miles north of Carmel Highlands, From Scratch Restaurant embodies the essence of farm-to-table dining in a cozy, rustic setting, offering all-day breakfast and lunch in the Barnyard Shopping Village. This beloved restaurant, which opened in 1977, was featured in season 21 of the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. With a focus on using fresh, local produce, the menu boasts a delightful mix of dishes. Try a morning jumpstart with their fresh organic coffee, “from-scratch” cinnamon roll pancakes, or the steel-cut oatmeal bowl with raisins, brown sugar, and steamed milk. The lunch menu includes amazing selections like the smoked BBQ beef brisket, the albacore tuna melt with secret spices, and the house-made brisket chili with green onions. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and taste is reflected in its array of handmade dishes, celebrating the simplicity and purity of each ingredient.
Rio Grill
101 The Crossroads Blvd, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
Nestled within the Crossroads Shopping Village just 3.5 miles north of Carmel Highlands, Rio Grill invites diners with its bold and vibrant flavors inspired by the Southwest. The restaurant opened in 1983 and is known for its robust fusion of Southwestern, Latin American, and Mediterranean influences, resulting in a menu that boasts a harmonious blend of spice, texture, and color. With an ambiance exuding warmth and charm, Rio Grill offers an inviting space where guests can savor delectable meals in a vibrant atmosphere. Try the stuffed poblano pepper burger, soy-marinated skirt steak with rainbow sweet potato gratin, wild mushroom spinach risotto, or New Zealand volcano lamb shank.
Nestled within the Crossroads Shopping Village just 3.5 miles north of Carmel Highlands, Rio Grill invites diners with its bold and vibrant flavors inspired by the Southwest. The restaurant opened in 1983 and is known for its robust fusion of Southwestern, Latin American, and Mediterranean influences, resulting in a menu that boasts a harmonious blend of spice, texture, and color. With an ambiance exuding warmth and charm, Rio Grill offers an inviting space where guests can savor delectable meals in a vibrant atmosphere. Try the stuffed poblano pepper burger, soy-marinated skirt steak with rainbow sweet potato gratin, wild mushroom spinach risotto, or New Zealand volcano lamb shank.
Lafayette Bakery & Cafe
3659 The Barnyard e22, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
Lafayette Bakery & Cafe welcomes patrons to a cozy haven, promising the comforting aromas of freshly baked bread and pastries. With a menu boasting an assortment of French baked delights and café-style comforts, this establishment is a favorite spot for those seeking freshly brewed coffee, delectable sandwiches, and a wide selection of artisanal bread and pastries. The café exudes a welcoming charm that complements its delightful culinary offerings.
Lafayette Bakery & Cafe welcomes patrons to a cozy haven, promising the comforting aromas of freshly baked bread and pastries. With a menu boasting an assortment of French baked delights and café-style comforts, this establishment is a favorite spot for those seeking freshly brewed coffee, delectable sandwiches, and a wide selection of artisanal bread and pastries. The café exudes a welcoming charm that complements its delightful culinary offerings.
Sea Harvest Fish Market & Restaurant
100 A The Crossroads Blvd, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
Sea Harvest Fish Market & Restaurant is a haven for seafood aficionados seeking a taste of the ocean's bounty. This establishment features a fish market offering the freshest catch of the day in a cozy restaurant setting. Guests can relish a variety of seafood dishes, from classic fish and chips to more adventurous culinary creations, all prepared with the freshest locally sourced seafood. Don’t skip the shrimp fettuccine in pesto sauce, calamari steak, and seafood tacos for fantastic flavors you won’t soon forget.
Sea Harvest Fish Market & Restaurant is a haven for seafood aficionados seeking a taste of the ocean's bounty. This establishment features a fish market offering the freshest catch of the day in a cozy restaurant setting. Guests can relish a variety of seafood dishes, from classic fish and chips to more adventurous culinary creations, all prepared with the freshest locally sourced seafood. Don’t skip the shrimp fettuccine in pesto sauce, calamari steak, and seafood tacos for fantastic flavors you won’t soon forget.
Ready to get started?
If you’re intrigued by these standout restaurants in the Carmel Highlands area, reach out to expert agent Jessica Canning of Canning Properties Group to make a move to the area. With top-tier market insight and a focus on your goals, this exceptional team is ready to help you achieve all your real estate ambitions.
