My husband and I will be staying 3 nights at the Highlands Inn in late July. Though we both enjoy cocktails with dinner, neither of us is comfortable driving very far after imbibing. Other than the restaurant at the Highlands Inn - which we'll definitely try - are there other restaurants within very close proximity for 2 other dinners?

SusanCS,

Which state is this for? California? Washington? Please be more specific.

Sorry, it's for Carmel, California.

If you are referring to Carmel--I may be incorrect but I do not believe there are any other restaurants within close enough proximity that you can forego driving altogether but there are many restaurants in Carmel which are less than a 10 -15 minute drive.

SusanCS,

I suspected it was for Carmel but thought I'd better check before misleading you.

I'm afraid if you're looking for restaurants within walking distance, you're not going to have much luck. The HI sits across the street from the ocean a little ways out of Carmel. To get to just about any restaurant (other than at your hotel) you're going to have to bite the bullit and drive either a) into Carmel, b) into Monterey, or c) down toward Nepenthe.

That said, here are a few places that we love:
1. Antoine & Michel: Continental cuisine in Carmel in a romantic setting (try the farm-raised abalone appetizer)
2. The Monterey Fish House: Casual locals place featuring outstanding fish dishes at reasonable prices.
3. Hogs Breath Inn: A great setting to enjoy an afternoon drink in. Truly a unique atmosphere!
4. Nepenthe: Wonderful place to have lunch--the view is unsurpassed.

Have a great trip!

Strive

We live in the area and I am writing this from the Monterey Peninsula.

Get a reservation at CASANOVA'S in Carmel. Nuff said. Take a cab. Great place. If you have a group of 6 try to book the small room VAN GOHS table. Nice.

Most of the places you will want to go from Highlands will be by cab. Another great spot is in the Barnyard Shopping Center: BAHAMA BILLYS. Good food and service from a gut that has been in the area for a long time.

Some of the restaurants recommended above are far away.Nepenthe is nice, but about 22 miles from your hotel.

Thanks for all the input. Based on location alone, we've changed our reservations from the Highlands Inn to the Monterey Plaza Hotel. I assume the Monterey Plaza isn't as nice, but it seems much more convenient. I hate missing the Highlands Inn because it looks really beautiful, but I must say that we won't miss the price! One of the 3 nights we'd booked was $500 and the other two were $440, I think. Whew! I've noted your restaurant advice and will certainly use it! I hope we won't regret the hotel change...

Susan: The Monterey Plaza is great also. Overlooks the Bay. Be sure to go down the road to Pacific Grove. Many excellent restaurants. Among the best: FANDANGO'S. Well known in the area. Another choice in downtown PG is ROBERT'S WHITE HOUSE. Don't assume all the places to eat are in Carmel. Enjoy our area! Great weather today, June 15.

Monterey Fish House will be a short ride. Check with the Plaza as I think you can arrange to have the "car" drive you and pick you up. If not, it will be a relatively short cab ride if you do not want to drive. There is also a place at the end of the coast guard pier within walking distance to the Plaza. Check with the Concierge. I think the first name is Mancuso's. The walk home can be lovely in the evening. You will have a nice (and safe) shorepath upon which to walk. I agree with the others who have recommended you check out places in Pacific Grove. You will need to drive.
While in the area do take a drive over to Point Lobos and walk. This will provide you up close vistas of some amazing coastline. There are a variety of walks most of which are extremely gentle.

Hello-
I also live on the Monterey Peninsula and Bob is right on with his suggestions. I think you will enjoy the Monterey Plaza even though it is in the very touristy Cannery Row. Anywhere you go from there you will need a cab, but all drives are less than 10 minutes. Fandango is excellent as is the White House (a little more sedate but great food) Stokes Adobe (Monterey) and Casanova (Carmel) are both favorites of mine. I am a big wine/foodie, so if you have any more specific questions, let me know. p.s. I just had my birthday dinner at the Pacifics Edge at the Highlands Inn and it was WONDERFUL. Worth the cab ride. Have fun!