We are doing a one-day drive from San Francisco down the coast to Carmel and back. We'd like to have a nice dinner in the Monterey/Carmel area. However, "nice" can't simply mean pricey since we are on a budget. Something under $25 each would be good. There will be three of us including my 21 year old daughter who is an interior architecture student in SF so something that has a unique atmosphere would be a plus for her. Thanks for any suggestions.

Check out the California Market at the Highland's Inn, this is their casual venue, the hotel is absolutely gorgeous, she will appreciate the lobby area here. YOu will have stunning oceanviews of the coastline here, there are heat lamps if you want to dine out on the patio, also. Take a peek at the Pacific's Edge, a gorgeous more formal, pricey venue at the hotel.

Have fun on your trip! ***kim***

>> Something under $25 each would be good

Others in Carmel:

Il Fornaio at the Pines Inn
http://pineinn.com/ilfornaio/menu_dinner.html

Little Napoli
http://www.littlenapoli.com/holding.html

Both good and within your budget range.

I love Little Napoli... never had a bad meal or serving experience there after MANY years!

Also, if you drive just about 15 miles south on highway one on the right is Rocky Point... have a drink just before sunset and then enjoy the ambiance. It's right on the rocks, gorgeous view... you can order fish and chips or whatever suits your budget. (Maybe a local can chip in here... I haven't been in a few years)but it's a unique spot.

>> Rocky Point... have a drink just before sunset

Hi moneygirl,

You rarly see that on this forum. I haven't been there for years myself but it was a great experience.

I rememeber the big light they shine on the rocks at night.

Anybody been there recently?

We go to Rocky Point at least a couple of times a year, but for lunch. Wonderful views, decent food.