Savor Every Sunset: End-of-Summer Dining in the Heart of Carmel
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 ready to welcome you with warm hospitality, a menu full of flavor, and the kind of experience that’s worth repeating.
End-of-Summer Flavors, Crafted for the Coast
Late summer brings out some of the best flavors of the year—ripe produce, balanced heat, and fresh, ocean-inspired ingredients. Our California fusion menu reflects all of that and more, with options for every palate.
Fire Roasted Garlic Plate
Simple, rustic, and made for sharing. Whole roasted garlic is served with goat cheese, heirloom tomato jam, and artisan bread. A starter that sets the tone for a relaxed evening.
Roasted Beet Salad
Red and golden beets tossed with mixed greens, raspberry vinaigrette, Point Reyes blue cheese, and candied walnuts. It’s fresh, earthy, and packed with vibrant color.
Signature Candied Pork Belly
Cured, smoked, and baked over three days, then flash-fried and glazed with brown sugar and jalapeño powder. It’s a signature bite for a reason—rich, sweet, and with just the right amount of heat.
Entrées That Linger Like Sunset
From hearty favorites to lighter coastal fare, our entrées are crafted to match the mood of a slow, golden evening.
Wild Mushroom Spinach Risotto (Vegetarian & Gluten-Free)
Creamy, comforting, and elevated with Earthbound Farm spinach, Manchego cheese, and a drizzle of truffle oil. This dish brings warmth and elegance to the table.
Ribeye Certified Prime
A 14oz almond wood–grilled cut served with mashed Asiago Yukon Golds, charred broccolini, and a green peppercorn demi-glace. Big flavor, beautifully balanced—perfect for meat lovers.
Catch of the Day
Always fresh, always local, and always changing with the season. Ask your server about the day’s featured fish, prepared with ingredients that highlight the best of late summer.
Cocktails for Golden Hour
As the sun dips low, raise a glass to good company and great flavor. Our cocktail list is handcrafted for moments like these.
Passionfruit Fizz
Vodka, passionfruit, triple sec, lemon, agave, and sparkling wine come together in a light, effervescent cocktail that’s both tropical and refined.
Grand Manhattan
For those who like a spirit-forward option, this one features Bulleit Rye and Bourbon, Grand Marnier, sweet vermouth, and orange bitters—smooth, deep, and perfect for slow sipping.
Cucumber & Jalapeño
Fresh cucumber meets serrano jalapeño–infused tequila with lemon and soda. It’s a garden-fresh cocktail with just enough spice to keep things interesting.
Dine Outdoors, Carmel Style
August evenings are tailor-made for outdoor dining. At Rio Grill, our patio offers the perfect setting for enjoying the breeze, watching the sunset, and savoring every course at your own pace. Whether you’re coming with a group or just stopping in for a date night, there’s space to unwind and connect.
Looking to round out your meal? Add seasonal sides like our Spicy Broccolini, Sweet Potato Fries, or Asiago Mashed Potatoes—comforting, colorful, and crafted to complement any main dish.
Sunset Flavors, Local Hospitality
As locals wind down from summer festivals and travelers wrap up their coastal adventures, Rio Grill remains a steady favorite—a place to gather, dine, and celebrate the simple pleasure of a great meal.
We’ve been part of the Carmel dining scene for over three decades, and there’s never been a better time to experience what makes our California fusion cuisine and warm hospitality so unforgettable.
Join us at Rio Grill in Carmel, CA or call 831.625.5436 to make your reservation. Let’s toast to summer—before it slips away.
