Happy Hour in Carmel, CA
Rio Grill's happy hour runs daily from 3:30 to 6:00 PM, bar and lounge only, at The Crossroads in Carmel-by-the-Sea — walk-ins welcome, no reservation required.
Join us at the bar for handcrafted cocktails, seasonal wines and small plates at a great value. Pair with our full dinner menu or explore our wine list. Reserve a table — walk-ins also welcome.
When
Daily · 3:30 – 6:00 PM
Bar & lounge only · Walk-ins welcome
Rio Grill's happy hour is the best-kept secret in Carmel-by-the-Sea — and after 40 years, it's not very well-kept anymore. Every evening from 3:30 to 6:00 PM, the bar and lounge at The Crossroads comes alive with the kind of laid-back California energy that makes this stretch of Highway 1 so special. Whether you're unwinding after a walk on Carmel Beach, catching up with friends before dinner, or simply putting a well-deserved pause in your day, our happy hour is the right place to do it.
We pour handcrafted cocktails built on house-made ingredients, fresh citrus, and quality spirits — the kind of drinks you'd expect from a bar that's been shaking things up since 1983. Our bar bites come from the same kitchen that earns rave reviews every night, so you're not just getting a deal: you're getting a taste of what makes Rio Grill Carmel's most beloved dining institution. Pair your cocktail with a pour from our award-winning wine list, or let happy hour flow straight into our full dinner menu.
Seating is bar and lounge only — first come, first served. Walk-ins are always welcome, and the vibe is always worth it. If you're planning to stay for dinner afterward, we recommend grabbing a reservation — especially on Friday and Saturday nights.
Happy Hour FAQs
What time is happy hour at Rio Grill?
Happy hour runs daily from 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM, in the bar and lounge only. No reservation required — walk-ins always welcome.
Is Rio Grill happy hour available every day?
Yes. Happy hour is available seven days a week. Whether it's a Monday or a Saturday, 3:30 PM is always a good time at Rio Grill.
Where is Rio Grill located in Carmel?
We're at 101 Crossroads Blvd in Carmel-by-the-Sea — at The Crossroads shopping center, right at the corner of Highway 1 and Rio Road. It's the gateway to Big Sur and one of the most scenic restaurant locations on the California coast.
Can I make a reservation for happy hour?
Happy hour is bar and lounge seating only and is first come, first served. If you'd like to continue on to dinner, we recommend making a dinner reservation in advance — especially on weekends.
Happy Hour - Everyday 3:30 - 6 pm
Fried Salmon, Coleslaw, Soft Corn Tortillas, & Sriracha Aioli. 2 per order
Beef Angus Patties, Caramelized Onions, Cheddar, Diced Pickles, Mini Brioche Buns. 2 per order
Asiago Mashed Potatoes, Chili Butter. 2 per order
Two Ribs with Coleslaw
Bacon-Wrapped Breaded Mozzarella, Crushed Pecans, Chili Flakes, Bourbon-Brown Sugar Glaze. 3 per order
Turkey, Bacon, Avocado, Pico-De-Gallo, & Mozzarella. Wrapped in Crispy Wonton. 3 per order.
One of each: Tomato Burrata - Tomato-Basil Relish & Burrata Prosciutto & Goat Cheese - Red-Wine Poached Pears, Crushed Pecans Smashed Avocado - Chili Flakes & Truffle Oil
Cocktails
Tequila, Orange Liquor, Agave, Lemon & Lime
Vodka, Grapefruit, Sparkling Wine, & a splash of Soda Water
Rum, Blue Curaco, Pineapple, Coconut Cream, Lime
Vodka, Ginger Beer & Lime Juice
Vodka, Blackberry, Lemon, Soda
Wine
Beer
Well Spirit & Soda
Coke, Coke Zero, Sprite, Ginger Ale, Diet Coke
Orange Juice, Cranberry Juice, Pineapple Juice, Grapefruit Juice & Tonic Water