News & Events

The Autumn Equinox has arrived, and with it comes cooler evenings, golden light, and the first signs of fall along the Central Coast. In Carmel, that shift is subtle but beautiful—sunsets arrive a little earlier, the ocean breeze feels a bit crisper, and the appetite leans toward richer, warmer flavors. At Rio Grill, it’s the perfect time to spotlight dishes and drinks that embrace the season’s change.

Fall at Rio Grill isn’t about heavy comfort food—it’s about depth, balance, and celebrating California’s..

As September winds down and the first full month of fall begins, it’s time for deeper flavors, cozy meals, and the kind of cooking that warms you from the inside out. At Rio Grill, this season is all about letting California’s best autumn ingredients meet the heat of our almond wood-fired grill—bringing out bold, smoky character and unforgettable flavor in every dish.

Known for over 36 years as a staple of the Carmel dining scene, Rio Grill specializes in California fusion cuisine made entirely in-house and to..

Fall is one of the most inviting times to visit Carmel. With golden light filtering through the cypress trees, a gentle coastal breeze, and just enough crispness in the air to signal the change of seasons, it’s the perfect setting for a weekend escape.

Whether you’re here for wine tasting, gallery hopping, or coastal hiking, one thing belongs on every weekend itinerary—dining at Rio Grill. Located right in the heart of Carmel, Rio Grill has been a staple for over 36 years, known for its California fusion..

Savor the Season Before It Slips Away

August in Carmel is a sweet spot—warm, breezy afternoons give way to golden sunsets, and the coast buzzes with visitors, day-trippers, and locals soaking up every last drop of summer. At Rio Grill, it’s the perfect time to embrace bold flavors, refreshing drinks, and laid-back meals that invite you to stay awhile.

Whether you’re winding down after a Big Sur hike or heading out for a relaxed night with friends, our California fusion menu celebrates the season with vibrant..

Make the Most of August’s Golden Evenings

As the sun sets a little earlier each day and August begins to fade, there’s a special energy in the air—one that calls for lingering dinners, shared plates, and memories made under the Carmel sky. At Rio Grill, these final weeks of summer are all about slowing down, savoring the moment, and indulging in dishes that celebrate the season.

Whether you’re wrapping up a beach day, heading in from a hike, or simply looking for a meal that feels like a getaway, our team is..

Summer in Carmel is all about flavor—and nothing captures it quite like the scent of almond wood smoke drifting from the grill. While many associate summer cooking with casual backyard barbecues, there’s something far more refined happening behind the scenes at Rio Grill.

For over 36 years, the kitchen at Rio Grill has centered around one thing: fire. The wood-burning grill and smoker are the heart of the operation, infusing dishes with layered flavor, natural char, and that unmistakable kiss of smoke. It’s a..

Mid-summer in Carmel brings golden light, ocean breezes, and plenty of new visitors exploring the Central Coast. But while the town welcomes waves of tourists, the locals know where to go when it comes to consistent, memorable dining—and that’s Rio Grill.

A fixture in the Carmel community for over 36 years, Rio Grill continues to earn its reputation as a go-to destination for California fusion cuisine. Guests return time and again not only for the bold, seasonal flavors but also for the warm, comfortable..

There’s something special about summer in Carmel. Golden sunsets, cool ocean air, and long, leisurely evenings create the perfect backdrop for a great meal. At Rio Grill, summer isn’t just a season—it’s a full-sensory experience built around fresh California ingredients, bold flavors, and creative fusion cuisine.

For over 36 years, Rio Grill has been a cornerstone of the Carmel dining scene. Known for its award-winning menu, wood-burning grill, and warm hospitality, the restaurant continues to offer a dining..

Your Summer Adventure Starts with Flavor

School’s out, the bags are packed, and the open road is calling. Whether you’re driving up the coast, exploring Carmel-by-the-Sea, or enjoying a staycation, one thing’s for sure—every great getaway deserves a truly memorable meal.

At Rio Grill, we bring the energy of California’s coast to your plate with a vibrant fusion of fresh, locally inspired ingredients and bold, creative cooking.

A Must-Stop for Travelers and Locals Alike

Located in the Crossroads of Carmel, Rio..