Our Favorite Tasty Spots On Our Classic Food Tour

Carmel has SO much to offer residents and visitors from restaurants to shops. And we might be biased, but the food is one of the best parts of our village! From classic sports bars to Oaxacan-inspired cuisine, and everything in between, no matter what your favorite cuisine options Carmel has everything!

While our Classic Food Tour only covers 6-7 tasting stops, we rotate through 14 different tasty spots for each of our tours. While we love them all, here are some of our favorites!

Cafe Carmel

A Carmel staple, Cafe Carmel makes the most delicious, mouthwatering baked goods you could ever imagine. Each is made on-site and everything is better than the next. Some of our favorite bakery items include the cinnamon roll, cranberry scone, and peanut butter brownie.

La Balena

Our favorite spot for seasonal, uncomplicated, organic food! Served in the Tuscan tradition, everything La Balena creates is delicious.

Anton & Michel

Carmel’s best-known modern European food! With a spacious interior and wonderful patio, Anton & Michel has everything you could need from a restaurant. The signature tableside service is also the best around!

Brophy’s Tavern

Looking for a spot to watch sports, catch up with friends, and have a cold beer? Brophy’s Tavern is your spot! This iconic location is a must-visit – the food is delicious, the drinks are even better, and it’s a great spot to hang out with friends and family!

Lula’s Chocolates

Calling all chocolate lovers! Lula’s Chocolates has some of the best chocolate and confections around. Perfect for a post-tour treat. Plus, Lula’s also has several chocolate boxes that make wonderful souvenirs.

Ready to join us on our Classic Food Tour? Learn more and get your tickets here!

Duration
3 hours
Group Size
1 to 16

Carmel-by-the-Sea Classic Food Tour

Discover the culinary delights and hidden gems of Carmel-by-the-Sea with our Classic Food Tour. This three-hour walking tour takes you through the charming streets of Carmel, where you'll enjoy five tastings at local eateries and shops. Along the way, you'll learn about the town's unique history, architecture, and culture, making it a truly immersive experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this tour offers a delicious and insightful look into the heart of Carmel.

Duration
3 hours
Group Size
1 to 20

Private Tours

Experience Carmel-by-the-Sea like never before with our exclusive Private Tours. Tailored to your group's interests, these tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the charming town at your own pace. Whether you're interested in culinary delights, historical insights, or scenic vistas, our private tours provide a personalized experience that caters to your preferences.

Our Private Tours are perfect for groups looking to enjoy a customized itinerary. You can choose the start time, duration, and specific tastings or activities that interest you the most. With the flexibility to deviate from standard tours, you can create a truly unique adventure that suits your group's needs.

Led by knowledgeable local guides, our Private Tours ensure you get the most out of your visit to Carmel. Discover hidden gems, savor local flavors, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of this picturesque town. Book your private adventure today and make unforgettable memories with your group.

Duration
1:30 to 3 hours
Group Size
1 to 120

Bay Area & Silicon Valley Corporate Offsites

Bring your Bay Area or Silicon Valley team to Carmel-by-the-Sea for a corporate offsite they'll actually look forward to. Just 2 hours from San Francisco and 90 minutes from San Jose, Carmel offers the perfect mix of world-class food, coastal charm, and team-building experiences — no flights, no hotels required. Unlike a typical resort offsite, Carmel itself is the activity: a walkable village where exceptional food, local history, and coastal beauty do the work of bringing people together naturally. Whether you're planning an intimate leadership retreat or an energetic group event for 100+, we have a curated experience for your team.

Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
1 to 12

The Art of the Plate Tour

This Culinary Week tour brings together four of Carmel’s most exciting restaurants for an exclusive afternoon of tastings created just for the event. Visit El Bistro by the Sea, Grasing’s, Toro Sushi, and finish with a signature cocktail at Bar Napoli. Enjoy a curated progression of flavors and behind-the-scenes hospitality as each stop serves a special Culinary Week item. Spaces are limited and the experience is available for a short window during the week.