Last updated Spring 2022

CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA, CA

A fairytale village whose magic trickles into all of its restaurants.

★ - All-time favorite / ✸ - Changing menu / Must-orders are bolded

This restaurant perfectly captures what I call “California food”: creative, comforting, locally sourced. Not to mention the sleek interior, adorable owners, and accompanying boutique.
Order notes: Breakfast plate, chilaquiles, matcha latte.
Website / Instagram

The only cheese purveyor that has my Wisconsin shops beat. Ask Kent for a tasting.
Website / Instagram

A rustic, traditional European restaurant complete with a wood-fired oven.
Order notes: Champignons provencale, Parisian gnocchi.
Website / Instagram

Secure a quality, made-to-order sandwich at the deli counter hidden within this local grocer.
Website / Instagram

A British-style sweets shop synonymous with the witch’s candy house in Hansel and Gretel.
Order notes: Homemade fudge, caramels, Turkish delights.
Website / Instagram