In the vast and diverse world of food, some establishments stand out for their unique offerings and captivating ambiance. We dive into the world of three exceptional culinary havens that will leave you longing for more.
Our first stop is a global fusion bistro, which offers a unique take on traditional dishes from around the world. Guests can always expect to find something delicious and unexpected, including delicious coffee and tea selections. The bistro’s menu changes to reflect the freshest ingredients available and the new discoveries of the owner and chef. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic dish with a twist or something completely new, their global fusion food is sure to please.
Next, we head to a coastal-inspired restaurant, which brings the beach right to Carmel with exquisite seafood, tantalizing cocktails, and wine selections sure to win anyone over. Ask for a food and wine pairing from their level 2 sommelier and immerse yourself in a delicious meal. With a cozy ambiance, this restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner or special occasion.
Finally, we visit a gourmet vegan, scratch-made bakery that will delight your senses with their plant-based baked goods and toppings galore. It is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Join us on this gastronomic journey that promises to satisfy your cravings for the best of Carmel.
Eggshell Bistro
51 City Center Dr. Carmel, IN. 46032
Eggshell Bistro is an award-winning restaurant that opened its doors in December 2011. Chef and owner Larry Hanes has an extensive history as an art director, but his passion is crafting delicious interpretations of classic dishes worldwide. Fans of the bistro describe it as a community hangout and the cheapest way to travel without flying.
Most Popular Menu Item
Shakshuka is a North African and Middle Eastern dish with poached eggs in a simmering tomato sauce with spices. In Eggshell Bistro’s case, this dish features a Tunisian-spiced tomato base, habanera, onion, garlic, chèvre, zhoug, sous-vide poached eggs, and ciabatta bread.
Underrated Menu Item
Labneh Tartine is a Middle Eastern dish packed with flavor. The house-made lemon-sumac labneh cheese has a goat cheese-like texture and is seasoned with a rose petal za’atar mix, sous-vide poached hen’s eggs, blueberry-fig chutney, rose water & petals, and grilled ciabatta bread.
Sip on Coffee, Tea, and Tisanes
Eggshell Bistro partners with Four Barrel Coffee and SerendipiTea for exquisite brewed beverages. Their most popular drinks include the New Orleans Iced Coffee, Turmeric Latte, and the newly concocted Red Rooibos Cappuccino.
Monterey Coastal Cuisine
110 W. Main St, Suite 135, Carmel, IN. 46032
Monterey Coastal Cuisine combines classic culinary techniques with California-inspired flavors as a new approach to casual fine dining. Although the menu is inspired by coastal cuisine, it also features seasonal and locally-influenced flavors to create a unique experience.
Most Popular Menu Items
Monterey’s Miso Butter Seabass is a true delight for seafood enthusiasts. This delectable creation features miso butter, fragrant scallion rice, Brussels sprouts, and a sweet pea puree.
The Life-Changer Cocktail is a secret menu item with a passionate fanbase. Bartenders use Tanteo Habanero Tequila and a secret ingredient for a unique take on a spicy margarita.
Underrated Menu Items
The 12-ounce Pork Chop from Monterey is a revelation, showcasing that pork chops don’t have to be dry and flavorless. This dish also contains fingerling potatoes, a flavorful bacon onion marmalade, a balanced Granny Smith apple slaw, and a sweet pea puree.
Want a refreshing cocktail? Try the Slim Citrus Flip, a vodka and Seaglass Sauvignon Blanc based drink with sugar-free simple syrup, lemon, lime, and soda.
Favorite Food and Wine Pairing
Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes with soy ginger aioli and Napa cabbage slaw pair beautifully with the Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc. Try it the next time you visit Monterey Coastal Cuisine, or ask their level 2 sommelier for a recommendation.
Cinnaholic
1350 S. Rangeline Rd. Carmel, IN. 46032; and
13185 Harrell Parkway, Suite 150, Nobelsville, IN. 46060
Cinnaholic is a popular and growing bakery that makes gourmet vegan and plant-based cinnamon rolls. They’re best known for their “create your own” model for cinnamon rolls, making them customizable for every baked goods enthusiast. Their rolls are made from scratch daily, plus the company is committed to sustainability. The owner of the Carmel franchise, Sanya Strawser, loves the community she’s built since her store opened in 2022.
Most Popular Menu Items
Signature Rolls steal the show. The beauty of Cinnaholic is that people can customize their desserts to their preferences. Some of the most popular rolls include Old Skool (cinnamon roll with vanilla icing), Caramel Apple Pie Roll (caramel frosting topped with fresh apples, pecans, homemade pie crumble and caramel sauce), and Very Berry (cake batter frosting topped with fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberry jam, and powdered sugar).
Upcoming Menu Items
Cinnaholic is launching weekly specials. Stop in and see what’s new! Aside from rolls, Cinnaholic provides gluten-free, allergy-friendly, and completely customizable options for a sweet treat anyone can enjoy.
