Savor the Season: Bright Flavors and California Sunshine

Welcome Summer with Seasonal Flavor

As daylight stretches into golden hour and Carmel’s coastal breeze carries the scent of summer, there’s no better time to embrace fresh, colorful, and flavor-packed cuisine. At Rio Grill, we celebrate the season with vibrant California fusion dishes designed to delight—from the first bite to the final toast.

California Ingredients, Fresh on the Plate

Longer days call for crisp produce, bold combinations, and unexpected twists. Our summer menu puts the spotlight on fresh, locally inspired ingredients, delivering bright flavors and unforgettable presentations.

Heirloom Tomato & Burrata Salad

A colorful standout that tastes like summer sunshine. This seasonal salad features juicy heirloom tomatoes, strawberries, baby arugula, roasted pinenuts, and creamy burrata, finished with citrus basil vinaigrette and balsamic glaze.

Fire Roasted Castroville Artichoke (Vegetarian & Gluten-Free)

Straight from the heart of artichoke country, this starter delivers smoky, caramelized flavor with a balsamic and cherry tomato aioli on the side. Light, satisfying, and 100% local.

Local Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Sage browned butter and candied walnuts bring richness, while baby spinach and Manchego offer texture and complexity. With diced bacon and a California-grown spotlight ingredient, this gnocchi dish is hearty without being heavy.

Main Courses to Match the Moment

From bright and herbaceous to rich and savory, our entrées are crafted to complement the spirit of summer.

Atlantic Salmon with Chipotle-Lime Vinaigrette

Pumpkin seed crusted and paired with a red pepper–potato cake and tender green beans, this vibrant entrée is finished with a tangy chipotle-lime vinaigrette that enhances every element on the plate.

Soy-Marinated Skirt Steak

Marinated to perfection and grilled to order, our skirt steak is served with rainbow sweet potato gratin and crisp green beans. A bold, satisfying option for those craving a more robust bite.

House-Smoked Half Chicken (Gluten-Free)

Slow-smoked and served with baby artichokes and red potatoes, this dish showcases the depth of our in-house smoker and the rustic charm of California comfort food.

Sip the Sunshine

Whether you’re lounging on the patio or gathering with friends, our summer cocktails are built to refresh.

Strawberry Guava Tini

Tropical guava meets ripe strawberry with vodka, triple sec, and a splash of citrus. Fruity, balanced, and almost too easy to enjoy.

17 Mile Haze

A coastal-inspired blend of gin, elderflower, muddled cucumber and basil, fresh lime, and agave. Cool, herbal, and made for sunset sipping.

Giving Back with Every Glass

Try one of our Partnership Series Cocktails, like the Ocean Strike MBFC or Laguna Seca Sunset, and we’ll donate $1 from every drink to local charities. Cheers to community support and coastal flavor.

Dine Al Fresco, Carmel Style

Looking to take in the breeze and dine under the sun? Our patio offers the perfect summer setting for brunch, lunch, or dinner. From casual bites to celebratory dinners, Rio Grill’s relaxed outdoor seating turns every meal into a mini escape.

A Destination for Locals and Visitors

Whether you’ve lived in Carmel for years or you’re just discovering the charm of the coast, Rio Grill offers a fresh take on California dining.

Start with shareables like the Wagyu Carpaccio or Haystack Onion Rings, and don’t forget to round out your meal with seasonal sides like our Spicy Broccolini or Asiago Mashed Potatoes.

Celebrate Summer at Rio Grill

This solstice, treat yourself to the flavor and energy of a true California summer. With bold seasonal dishes, chilled cocktails, and the kind of hospitality that makes every visit feel like a celebration, Rio Grill is your go-to destination for summer dining.

Make your reservation today by calling 831.625.5436 or visiting us in Carmel, CA. Let’s make this season one to savor.