Carmel-by-the-Sea Restaurants

The best brunch in Carmel is at Stationaery. The menu looks standard—scrambles, pancakes, granola bowls—but it’s executed beautifully, and you’ll notice the town’s younger crowd congregates here on weekends.

This Michelin-starred bistro feels bright and remarkably relaxed, like a lively dinner party at a friend’s place. The owners, husband-and-wife team chef Jonny Black and Monique Black, might drop by your table just to say hi. The food? Excellent. Chez Noir serves a daily prix fixe menu focused on seafood (although vegetarians can certainly be accommodated) and hyperlocal produce. Dessert is oh-my-god good, and the cocktails deserve a special mention, too.