Deetjen's Big Sur Inn Restaurant

Deetjen's Big Sur Inn Restaurant is located approximately 30 miles south of Carmel off highway 1.  The decor at this non profit historical establishment has a refreshing color scheme with its rustic charm.  The food is constantly delicious and friendly, attentive service adds to a delightful dining experience.  My favorite dinner entrees include the seared Organic Filet Mignon and the Honey Mustard Rack of Lamb.  However, I'm a huge fan of their breakfast.  The light and tangy Eggs Benedict are quite possibly the best on the central coast.

www.DiscoverBigSur.com

 http://www.seecarmel.com/restaurants.html

400 Degrees Gourmet Burger Restaurant

400 Degrees is a new Gourmet Burger Restaurant from the acclaimed Maribel Hotel and Restaurant Group located at the Carmel Plaza on the NW corner of Mission and Seventh Avenue.  The 1950's interior at this casual concept restaurant exudes a cool vibe mixed in with modern touches like the stainless steel wall and the floor to ceiling windows.     All burgers at 400 Degrees are a generous 6 ounce portion and made from a proprietary blend of Angus Certified Chuck and Skirt Steak.  Each gourmet burger is cooked at 400° on a one of a kind custom made griddle.  It is said the 400° is the perfect cooking temperature to lock in the optimal flavors and create a perfect crust.  My favorite is the standard cheeseburger cooked medium rare topped with white cheddar, apple-wood smoked bacon, roasted jalapenos and a fried egg.  All burgers come cooked medium unless otherwise specified.  Other favorites include the savory Kobe Burger (American Wagyu) topped with soused onions, smokes cheddar and crispy potato chips.  Not in the mood for beef?  Try the fresh Albacore Tuna Burger cooked medium rare featuring a sweet chili slaw and wasabi-lime spread.  With it's cool vibe and mouthwatering burgers, 400 Degrees is quickly becoming a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

 

El Torito's Mexican Restaurant - Cannery Row

El Torito's Mexican Restaurant and Cantina is located on Cannery Row and boasts fabulous bay views from nearly every table.  You might not find a gourmet Southwestern-style organic handmade tamale or Oaxacan mole blackened chicken enchilada however, you will find your standard classic tacos, burritos, enchiladas and fajitas, just to name a few.  looking for some small plates?  Try their festive "Happy Hour" Monday through Friday from 4-8 PM featuring discounted drinks and appetizers.  In a nutshell, El Torito's on Cannery row offers a lively family atmosphere, great Monterey Bay views, easy parking, and consistently good food that won't break the bank.  A great way to take in the Cannery Row experience for locals and visitors alike.

Looking for Mexican style cuisine in a more intimate setting?  Try Pepper's Mexicali Cafe located in Pacific Grove. Pepper's offers fusion of Tex-Mex, Southwestern and Oaxacan recipes guaranteed to satisfy any appetite.

www.seecarmel.com

Sarita's Mexican Restaurant

Sarita's Mexican Restaurant, located at 1935 Fremont Blvd. in Seaside, offers good, inexpensive Mexican cuisine.  The bright atmosphere at this small establishment exudes a cheerful vibe and the service has always been consistently good.  My favorite menu items include the roasted Chile Rellano and the Verde Cheese Enchiladas.  Both items are served with beans, rice, sour cream and guacamole.  On the flip side, I was not too impressed with the Shrimp Enchilada plate (bland) or the Carnitas Burrito (basic) and will probably stick with the tried and true classics on my next visit.

 Combination Enchilada and Burrito plate

 Verde Enchilada plate

 

Hurami Sushi - Seaside

We recently dined at Hurami Sushi in Seaside upon a friend's recommendation and have nothing but good things to report. The ambiance is light and airy and the atmosphere has a cool vibe.  Service is lightning fast and the portions are generous.  You can easily eat like royalty for under $20.  Try the 12 piece combo (pictured below).  Be sure to get the frequent customer card which accumulates a 5% discount for future purchases. 

Baan Thai Restaurant - Seaside

Want to Thai one on?  Then you'll want to try Baan Thai located in Seaside off Fremont Street.  This low key family owned restaurant is tucked away in a sleepy strip mall off Fremont Street but well worth the visit.  My sister had been raving about Baan Thai for ages and it certainly did not disappoint on our recent visit.  I couldn't help to notice how warmly everyone was greeted and treated as if they were family.  Our server was very courteous and gladly accommodated all of our special requests.  I Ordered my usual Thai favorite - the classic Pad Thai served with shrimp medium spicy.  This dish featured generous portions of tender shrimp and the perfect balance of flavors.  If shrimp or chicken is not your thing then try it with tofu.  The ambiance is on the modest side however the food and service is five star. 

Carmel Food Company

The Carmel Food Company is a quaint European style bistro located on the west side of Junipero between 6th and 5th Avenues.  This intimate bistro specializes in seasonal ingredients using the freshest available local produce, seafood and meats.  It's all about the food at this cozy eatery however, this hidden gem backs their savory meals with friendly, attentive service and an atmosphere exudes a cool vibe.  Favorite menu items include the Hungarian Style Beef Goulash, Bavarian Style Sausages and the mouth watering Hanger Steak.  The menu is somewhat limited however, you'll usually find something for everyone with selections of fresh seafood, steaks, chicken, pasta and homemade desserts that are second to none.