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Best Italian Restaurants in Carmel

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15 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Carmel's Bistro Giovanni restaurant
1. Carmel's Bistro Giovanni
4.6
Exceptional(1938)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carmel
Booked 25 times today
At Carmel's Bistro Giovanni, Steak enthusiasts discover a slice of culinary heaven. Nestled in the charming city of Carmel, this restaurant has earned glowing accolades for its exceptional Steak offerings. Patrons rave about the "always excellent" quality of the meals, emphasizing the fresh, authentic flavors that rival the finest in Italian cuisine. One visitor exclaimed, "The food is always so good. Everyone I bring there loves the place!" The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in its carefully prepared steaks, creating memorable dining experiences that keep guests returning. With its cozy ambiance and attentive service, Bistro Giovanni stands out as a premier destination for top-tier Steak in Carmel.
A photo of Il Fornaio - Carmel restaurant
2. Il Fornaio - Carmel
4.4
Awesome(2256)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Carmel
Booked 30 times today
Il Fornaio means the Baker in Italian. Located in downtown Carmel, Il Fornaio offers an authentic and unique Italian dining experience and a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence wine list. Enjoy wood-fired rotisserie and grilled meats, poultry and game; house made and imported pastas; pizzas from an oak wood burning oven; fresh salads and house made soups; antipasti and a wide variety of desserts made daily from scratch.
A photo of Il Tegamino restaurant
3. Il Tegamino
4.6
Exceptional(1098)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carmel
Booked 11 times today
Il Tegamino in Carmel is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering a truly authentic dining experience that resonates with both locals and visitors alike. Nestled behind a candy store on Ocean Ave, this quaint establishment thrives on its reputation for exceptional food and service. Guests rave about the "delicious and authentic Italian food," with standout dishes like the prosciutto and mozzarella antipasto and the ravioli di campagna. The ambiance, described as cozy and intimate, complements the carefully crafted meals. Frequent diners praise the "knowledgeable staff" and the "excellent wine pairings," making Il Tegamino a must-visit for anyone seeking a slice of Italy in Carmel.
A photo of Enzo Ristorante Italiano restaurant
4. Enzo Ristorante Italiano
4.6
Exceptional(450)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carmel
Booked 8 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 Casanova Restaurant Carmel restaurant
5. Casanova Restaurant Carmel
4.6
Exceptional(2346)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Carmel
Booked 20 times today
Casanova Restaurant in Carmel is a gem in the heart of a city known for its exceptional dining. Celebrated for its authentic Californian cuisine, Casanova offers a delightful array of dishes that showcase the best of local flavors and ingredients. Diners consistently praise the restaurant for its "absolute perfection" in culinary creations, like the tender duck leg confit and delightfully light gnocchi Casanova. The atmosphere is described as "charming" and "sophisticated," perfect for special occasions or a romantic night out. With accolades like "best meal in Carmel" and a reputation for attentive service, it's clear why Casanova remains a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. This standout Californian eatery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience in Carmel.
A photo of Stokes Adobe Restaurant restaurant
6. Stokes Adobe Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(744)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Monterey
Booked 17 times today
Stokes Adobe in Monterey, set within a historic adobe home, offers a delightful experience of Contemporary Italian cuisine with a touch of California flair. Guests rave about the "homemade tagliatelle Bolognese" and the "perfectly cooked" halibut, served up in a cozy atmosphere complete with fire pits and heaters. The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident, with visitors consistently praising the "delicious food" and "outstanding service." One diner encapsulated the appeal: "Every recommendation made by our waiter was right on the money!" With such glowing testimonials, Stokes Adobe stands out as a top destination for those seeking exceptional Italian dishes with a contemporary twist in a charming setting.
A photo of Basil Seasonal Dining restaurant
7. Basil Seasonal Dining
4.5
Awesome(908)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carmel
Booked 1 time today
Basil Seasonal Dining in Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a delightful experience that marries the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine with the freshness of Californian flair. Diners rave about the "best carbonara I've had outside of Italy" and commend the "amazing food" that reflects the seasonal and high-quality ingredients used. With options like gluten-free vegan raviolis that left guests eagerly anticipating their next visit, Basil exemplifies culinary excellence. Moreover, the charming ambiance and attentive service enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit destination for authentic and innovative Italian dishes. Whether it's the perfect pasta or the exceptional wine recommendations, Basil Seasonal Dining ensures an unforgettable meal in the heart of Carmel.
A photo of Fandango restaurant
8. Fandango
4.7
Exceptional(3833)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Pacific Grove
Booked 21 times today
Fandango in Pacific Grove is a culinary gem that consistently delivers an exceptional Italian dining experience. Guests rave about the authenticity and exquisite taste of dishes such as the chicken piccata and veal piccata, which are celebrated for their "always delicious" flavors. The ambiance, described as “charming” and “European,” enhances the authentic Italian dining experience, making every visit memorable. One visitor celebrated their anniversary with a "delicious" meal, emphasizing the restaurant's suitability for special occasions. Another highlighted the "excellent food," "lovely French atmosphere," and "charming setting," which together create a perfect backdrop for enjoying top-notch Italian cuisine. Fandango is undoubtedly a must-visit for those seeking a true taste of Italy in Pacific Grove.
A photo of Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar - Pacific Grove restaurant
9. Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar - Pacific Grove
4.8
Exceptional(1300)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Pacific Grove
Booked 26 times today
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 includeBuccatini Al’AmatricianaLinguini alla VongoleChicken Sausage LasagneSpaghetti CarbonaraGrilled Octopus Lamb Meatballs House-made CharcuterieGnocchi with Gorgonzola Dolce Sauce & Black Truffle OilLittle Gem Caesar Salad with Parmigiano Reggiano Raviloi di Manzo Pate di Anatra
A photo of Domenico's on the Wharf restaurant
10. Domenico's on the Wharf
4.5
Awesome(1631)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Monterey
Booked 5 times today
Domenico's on the Wharf in Monterey is a seafood lover's paradise, renowned for its sustainable, local, and Alaskan catch, expertly prepared to showcase the freshness and quality. Celebrating over 35 years of culinary excellence, this bayside gem boasts a "mouthwatering Prawns Scampi Castroville" and "the best King Crab," often highlighted by diners as "the best seafood" they've ever enjoyed. With seafood caught by owner Sammy Mercurio himself, the authenticity and passion for seafood are palpable, enhancing each dish's flavor. Guests rave about the "amazing cioppino" and praise the "clam chowder bread bowl" as "unbelievably delicious." Set against the backdrop of Monterey's scenic views, Domenico's pairs exquisite meals with an enchanting dining experience, making every visit memorable.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Natasha
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The best meal I’ve ever had. Highly recommend! We had the seafood carbonara and ragu.
    More info
    Il TegaminoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Carmel
    •
    4.6
  • andrea
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Everyone is great there. Manager, servers and service are always great.
    More info
    Il Fornaio - CarmelPrice: Moderate• Italian• Carmel
    •
    4.4
  • nicholas
    Edmonton / Northern Alberta •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Food was 10/10, really good. Only draw back was the higher price range. Service was really good as well, awesome recommendations by our server.
    More info
    Casanova Restaurant CarmelPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Carmel
    •
    4.6
  • grtfoodvip
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •37 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    THE BEST MEAL WE HAVE EVER HAD!! My husband had lobster ravioli that was terrific & I had a seafood dish that had with 7 different seafoods .. crab, mussels. Clams,white fish, shrimp, prawns. All in a yummy ragu sauce with linguine! BOTH OUTSTANDINGLY DELICIOUS! Also shared a great Caesar salad with slices of homemade sourdough with olive oil & balsamic for dipping '!' This is our new go to When we visit Carmel!' The hand painted murals on the walls & background Italian music added to the mood! We had a great server who topped off our amazing experience ‼️👍🌈
    More info
    Carmel's Bistro GiovanniPrice: Expensive• Italian• Carmel
    •
    4.6
  • Jeanelle
    Denver / Colorado •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 23, 2024
    We always have a wonderful experience when eating here! Great ambiance and the service is always top notch! We return every time we travel to Carmel!
    More info
    Enzo Ristorante ItalianoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Carmel
    •
    4.6

Discover best Italian restaurants in Carmel

Discover the rich flavors of Italy right in the heart of California's Central Coast with our selection of Italian restaurants in Carmel, Monterey/Carmel. Each establishment captures the essence of Italian cuisine, offering dishes ranging from hand-crafted pastas and wood-fired pizzas to authentic regional specialties, all prepared with a commitment to both tradition and innovation. The dining scene here is characterized by a charming blend of local and Italian culinary traditions, ensuring a memorable experience for every palate. Patrons consistently praise the high-quality ingredients, the authenticity of the flavors, and the warm, inviting atmospheres of these restaurants. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor looking to indulge in Italian fare, the Central Coast's Italian dining offerings provide a delightful blend of taste, tradition, and culinary excellence. With options ranging from family-run trattorias to elegant dining experiences, each restaurant promises a unique journey through the tastes of Italy, enhanced by exceptional service and picturesque settings.

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