Your pick for Lunch in Carmel Valley

[kemi5]

Taking a drive to CV for lunch and wine tasting. Want to stay away from the resort places. $ - $$$ price range. Also am I just going mad or is there an herb farm/veggie pick-you-own place close by as well? Thanks in advance.

[kemi5]

Thank you all for your replies. We ended up @ Corkscrew Cafe / Georis Winery. It was a beautful day so we lunched al fresco beneath a canopy of grape vines and fragrant wisteria. Portions of the country pate served with picholine olives, cornichons, mustard and grilled sweet french bread were generous although the pate was bland and crumbly. Due to the very warm day we shared a half bottle of a chilled Velo from the adjoining Georis winery. A fruit forward blend of Sauvignon Blanc & Chardonnay paired well with my delicious Salmon Nicoise Salad. Shame that the menu is quite small and not very inspiring. Although I do like Mexican food it's not a match that excites me with wine IMHO.

It was Earthbound Farms that I was trying to remember! Time didn't allow us to make a stop but there's always another time.

[syrahgirl]

Glad you enjoyed Corkscrew Cafe, our favorite in Carmel Valley is Wickets @ the Bernardus Lodge. :)

[Ed Dibble]

No offence to Earthbound, but the Farmer's Markets in the area (I am most familiar with the ones in Monterey) are so much better than what is available at Earthbound.

[kemi5]

I totally agree with you Ed. The ones that I frequent are phenomenal. My I interest were the pick-you-own, and photo opportunities of the crops.

[45chico]

I second Cafe Rustica. My very favorite restaurant when I visit Carmel Valley. Delicious food and fun!

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Cafe Rustica
10 Del Fino Pl, Carmel Valley, CA 93924

[shellsbutt]

I think you're referring to Earthbound Farms. They have a farmstand on Carmel Valley Rd, about 3 1/2 miles from Hwy1. If you'll be there early enough, you could also try Wagon Wheel for breakfast-very casual and also on the same road. Have fun!

[UpgradeQueen]

try Cafe Rustica. been there many times. patio. very local, in the village.

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Cafe Rustica
10 Del Fino Pl, Carmel Valley, CA 93924