One of the 10 best restaurants in Carmel, Rio Grill is Carmel dining that turns up the flavor with a southwestern flair, serving fresh local Californian eats while impressing food critics and foodies alike. Earning distinguished culinary awards for downtown Carmel restaurants, Rio Grill has been part of the local restaurants Carmel by the Sea lore for 36 years. Welcome to creative American food at its best with a full bar, great wine and impeccable service.
Opened in 1983 as a coastal counterpart to Mustard’s Grill and soon-to-be Fog City Diner, our restaurant in Carmel turned indie in 1988 and continues to top restaurants reviews in 2019. One of Carmel’s best restaurants, we’re located at the gateway to one of the world’s most celebrated drives—Highway 1. Rio Grill is a permanent fixture amongst Carmel by the Sea restaurants.
Locals love to lunch at Rio Grill, one-of-three top Carmel Restaurants for inspired Southwestern American dishes. Over the years, our award-winning restaurant and dynamic environment has made us a Carmel by the Sea institution. We’re on a first name basis with many customers and cherish being the “go-to” place for lunch in Carmel, birthdays and special occasions. Drop by and join the party or make your reservations online.
