Visual diary of our weekend in Carmel and our favorite spots

07.22

Visual diary of our weekend in Carmel and our favorite spots

We are in love with Carmel. Every time we make our way back the same conversation comes up: we must live here at some point! It's in our retirement plan. Carmel is a little slice of European heaven. The architecture, charm, ocean air. Beautiful restaurants, the best shopping, and quaint markets. Walking distance to everything you need and then some! It's a magical place.

We have some long standing favorites so wanted to pass them along! The only raved about spot we have yet to try is Chez Noir. It seems like a better spot to go when Matt and I are kid and pup-free! Will report back next time, I am currently plotting another escape there for late summer.

This trip was such a wonderful time. We went with our friends/neighbors who have a daughter the same age as Grace. The two of them had so much fun! Grace's first time sharing a room with another little one and it went so well.

Our days were filled with lots of laughs, delicious food, wine, bopping around shops, a beach picnic, and enjoying those ideal 70º warm days.

Stay

Airbnb a home in town or I'd suggest Petit Pali, La Playa, or L'Auberge Carmel.

Eat

La Bicyclette — the best!!! We usually go here twice on trips because we love it so much. Pizzas, pastas, amazing bread, great wine list.

Casanova — same owners and just as swoon-worthy. We love coming here for dinner while in town. The date night favorite! We brought the kids this time, they are family-friendly but it's small and intimate, just fyi!

Buds — the restaurant at La Playa hotel. A chic setting for a culinary cocktail / app!

Dutch Door Donuts — they make donuts on the spot and they are out of this world. I also love their coffee! We usually plan to wake up and walk here as soon as they open to grab coffees and a donut for G. Can't miss this one, plus it's in the shopping center (right next to the new Jenni Kayne!).

Stationaery — for a farm to table/California-style brunch experience! Always plan for starting one of our mornings here.

Katy's Place — another great breakfast spot.

Village Corner Bistro — for a classic American-style breakfast spot, this place is a gem.

Nielsen Brothers Market — our go-to market in the area. A wine shop inside, too! I heard they also make sandwiches, I have yet to try from here but bet they'd do a fantastic job.

Shop

Stroll through the Carmel Plaza, which I mentioned above. There are shops peppered throughout the entire downtown. It's just fun to step into them as you pass by and explore the area that way while en route to lunch or a wine tasting.

Paloosh — always on my list to peruse! Same owners as GBG which is also well-loved by many.

Lots of merch shops, too. A sucker for a good pullover from places I love.