L'Auberge Carmel Restaurant

CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA. A charming, graceful hotel houses this esteemed restaurant, which serves a carefully crafted tasting menu of Californian cuisine with Continental touches. Diners explore eight to ten courses – each serving a precise, delicious bite – of gastronomic bliss. While the menu changes regularly to accommodate what's in-season, past delights have included Thai curry shellfish soup and a "deconstructed" lobster taco. Wine pairings from the 4,500+-bottle selection enhance the meal, as does a sweet treat from the in-house pastry chef. With only 12 tables, reservations are absolutely required. A bistro in the hotel's lobby serves à la carte fare on a nightly basis.