Carmel-by-the-Sea must have at least as many restaurants as I once counted in the Tri-Cities area of northern Illinois, oh, so many years ago. Or, perhaps as many beers as the Super Bowl will sell in New Orleans this February 9th… in the first five minutes of the game! But I digress…
Il Fornaio Beckoned
One of Lynne and Roberto’s (my sister & brother-in-law) favorite haunts in Carmel – Il Fornaio – is to be found at the corner of Ocean and Monte Verde within the Pine Inn. It is old, full of fine mahogany and oak furniture, has a menu filled with award winning and authentic Italian fare, and has a really nice rooftop dining area with excellent views and mild breezes (at the proper times of the year, of course!).
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Lynne and Roberto were unable to meet us there on this trip, but Lauren and I decided to go anyway, as we had not been there yet. Another sunny, warm and marvelous California day dawned, and signaled that the timing was perfect. As we strolled down Ocean Avenue, Il Fornaio beckoned.
Rooftop Dining and Authentic Italian Fare
Several dining areas are available, but we really wanted to head to the rooftop. Just inside, we were greeted by a smiling Sergio. He led us up a flight of stairs and to a quiet table on the roof, near the southwest corner. Actually, the restaurant had just opened, and we were the only diners on the rooftop patio.
Handing us a menu, he continued to smile as we entered into some cordial banter about us celebrating our anniversary in Carmel. Sergio would prove to be an excellent server.
Today would only be another lunch day for us, as we really weren’t interested in a large meal. However, what we selected was perfect for the day. We really wanted a wood fired pizza, but the ovens weren’t quite ready yet… so, we would “settle” for something else. That would not be a problem, as the menu – from appetizers to entrées – was chock-full of mouth watering items.
From Bruschette Assortite to Tagliatelle Bolognese
Believe me. On an Italian menu, that is not difficult. And Il Fornaio is very Italian, and has the menu to prove it! From Bruschette assortite to Tagliatelle Bolognese (and beyond), Il Fornaio has it all – and it is all good!
We each started out with a large glass of Chalk Hill Russian River Chardonnay, taking our time to determine our choices. The day was gorgeous, and as the sun rose higher, the hummingbirds began to buzz past us they headed for the colorful flowers surrounding the rooftop.
After snapping numerous pictures, we had decided to share, first Zucchine ala Parmigiana (layerd, lightly fried zucchini slices | mozzarella | tomato sauce | grana Padano | and basil $16) and then an order of Carpaccio (piedmontese beef | grana padano | capers | wild arugula | lemon olive oil $19).
Very Delightful Lunch
It may not sound like much, but it was. And we enjoyed every single bite! I am certain we could have stayed the rest of the afternoon, just sipping on another glass of Chalk Hill Chardonnay and nibbling on another delicious appetizer. Unfortunately, we had much more to accomplish today – starting with another long walk along the beach.
We paid our tab, bid Sergio arrivederci, walked back down the stairs and headed for Scenic Ave.
Il Fornaio has eighteen locations, but Carmel instantly became a favorite. It was a smallish and short, but very delightful lunch. And I give Il Fornaio 4 Zins. Everything is top-notch and it’s definitely a restaurant you should consider visiting while in Carmel.
Your Table is Waiting…
Ralph Pancetta
Il Fornaio in Carmel is located at the corner of Ocean and Monte Verde within the Pine Inn. They also have other locations in California as well as a couple in Las Vegas.
