Monterey Area Restaurant Advice
 

I will be in the Monterey area in two weeks and would like to know if anyone has any feedback on the following restaurants: Anton & Michael in Carmel, Old Bath House in Pacific Grove, Pacific's Edge at Highland Inn in Carmel Highlands. I'm looking for good atmosphere, views and of course, good food. My husband and I will have one night in this area and want to make our dining experience a memorable one.

You have listed 3 fine restaurants. Anton & Michael does NOT offer a view which you list as a criteria. The other two do have excellent views. Pacific's Edge is above the ocean, and its views are limited to daylight hours, however. The Old Bath House overlooks Monterey Bay and therefore has a night view of the lights on the far shore. In your review, add another restaurant to the list: Fresh Cream. This restaurant overlooks Monterey Bay and also has good night views. <BR> <BR>As far as food, service and ambience, all 4 are excellent choices, but I would again place Anton & Michael at the bottom of that list. Tied at the top would be Fresh Cream and Old Bath House. Both are pricey, but both will provide a life-time meal experience. If you want more detail, renew your post. Have a great stay!

Highlands Inn, definately. I was there a few years ago with some close frineds from the Maserati Club. We toasted the sunset with champange and the room had the most lovely view at sunset. A great mood enhancer after an enthusiastic weekend with good friends. I enjoyed the company so much I can't tell you what I ate! my affirmation will, therefore, have to rest on the atmosphere of the lovely site.

<BR>There is no other choice than Pacific's Edge based on your criteria. Call ahead and reserve a table so you can be seated before suset. Getting there early for a few cocktails is a treat as well.

Fresh Cream gets my vote. Be sure to let them know you want a table with a view. This is a popular restaurant--reserve far in advance. They have (or had) a dessert that is a shake in a chocolate bag. Hard to describe, but wonderful. This restaurant is expensive, but worth it. <BR> <BR>My one experience at Pacific Edge happened years ago. We had a lovely view, but as the sun went down, we had difficulty as the sun was so bright in our eyes. Also, I was there with a business group of about 8 people. We had a leisurely dinner and paid well over $50 per person for the meal. I was astonished when someone from the restaurant came over and told us we were occupying our seats too long and would we please leave. We were not boisterous; again, this was a business group. I frequently host dinner groups, and I'd never had that happen before, nor since.

Not to quibble with Rob, but has he been to either Old Bath House or Fresh Cream? These two (along with Pacific's Edge)unquestionably meet the criteria of fabulous food, gorgeous ocean views, great service and unique ambiance. Also, all three will put a dent in your wallet.

I've only been to the Old Bath House. <BR>It's incredibly romantic -- try to make reservations around sunset. The food is delicious and the service is gracious. <BR>Dining there would make your evening in Pacific Grove special. <BR>