Savor the Flavors: The 37th Annual Taste of Carmel — What You Need to Know
Each October, Carmel by the Sea transforms into a culinary wonderland for one unforgettable evening — and 2025 marks the 37th running of Taste of Carmel. Whether you're a longtime local or a foodie visiting the Monterey Peninsula, this event is your passport to the best bites, drinks, and atmosphere Carmel has to offer.
Date & Time: Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm (VIP entry at 5:00 pm)
Location: Carmel Mission Courtyard, 3080 Rio Road, Carmel, CA
Ticketing: Early bird and regular pricing tiers, with Chamber member discounts.
Be aware: tickets will not be sold at the door — attendees must secure their passes in advance.
A Bit of History (with Local Flavor)
Taste of Carmel is one of the signature events of Carmel’s autumn calendar, hosted by the Carmel Chamber of Commerce. For decades, it's showcased the region’s vibrant food scene, top wineries, craft beverage makers, and the community’s artistic spirit.
In past years, the event has featured around 30 restaurants and 20 wineries sampling appetizers, entrées, desserts, and pours in the beautiful Carmel Mission courtyard. As it’s grown, it’s become more ambitious — both in scale and in experience.
In 2025, the theme is “Boots, Bottles & Bites”, promising a playful Western twist on Carmel’s signature elegance.
Who’s Bringing the Flavor? Selected Vendors & Highlights
While the full list of vendors will be released closer to event day, here are several that have been spotlighted in connection to past events and the 2025 edition:
Restaurants / Food Vendors (past & anticipated):
· Aquinos Birrieria
· Baja Cantina
· Breadsong
· Café Carmel
· Earthbound Farm Stand
· Hidden Gem
· Mission Bistro
· Rio Grill
· Wild Plum Café
· Yafa
Wineries & Beverage Makers:
· Bernardus Winery
· Folktale Winery
· Scheid Vineyards
· Vin Wine Bar + Bottle Boutique
· Windy Oaks Winery
· Wrath Wines
These names illustrate the diverse mix of established local institutions and boutique purveyors that make Taste of Carmel a culinary tapestry.
A Night to Remember
Culinary Tour de Carmel
Walk the courtyard and sample small plates from dozens of local restaurants — everything from creative apps to decadent desserts. This is your chance to taste local favorites and discover new treasures.
Wine & Beverage Pairings
Sip your way through wine, craft brews, and beverage creators. Whether you’re into bold reds, crisp whites, or inventive mixers, there’s something curated for every palate.
Entertainment & Ambiance
The live music and dancing add a festive, communal energy after sunset. Paired with courtyard lighting, historic architecture, and the coastal evening breeze — it sets a magical tone.
Silent Auction & Experience Packages
Bid on special local experiences — staycations, artisan packages, dinners, and more — all benefiting the Chamber and local community initiatives.
VIP Perks
VIPs arrive earlier, skip lines, park easily, and relax in premium lounge space before the general crowd enters. It’s the luxury way to experience the evening.
Why This Matters to the Community (and to You)
- Supporting Local Businesses
Every restaurant, winery, and craft beverage sponsor benefits from exposure, sales, and community goodwill. - Highlighting Carmel’s Unique Charm
Events like Taste of Carmel reinforce Carmel’s reputation as a refined, culture-rich destination—something that adds to the allure (and the value) of local real estate. - Creating Connection
Whether longtime residents, newcomers, or tourists, this event brings people together over shared senses: taste, music, and ambiance.
Tips for Attending
- Buy tickets early – especially if you want VIP perks — because it will likely sell out.
- Pace yourself — there are many tasting stations, so come with room to taste, savor, and return for favorites.
- Plan your route — since the event is courtyard-based, map out which stations you want to hit first (popular ones tend to draw lines).
- Bring your appetite (and your walking shoes!)
