This fall, the quiet elegance of Italian craftsmanship meets the coastal charm of California with the opening of Brunello Cucinelli at Carmel Plaza. Renowned globally as the “King of Cashmere,” Brunello Cucinelli is celebrated for its dedication to beauty, humanity, and artisanal excellence — qualities that harmonize perfectly with the spirit of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

The boutique embodies the brand’s distinct blend of modern refinement and enduring tradition — a reflection of the philosophy that has defined its founder’s life work. Each piece, from soft cashmere knits to impeccably tailored silhouettes, tells a story of human dignity, slow fashion, and the artistry of Italian craftsmanship that has long set Brunello Cucinelli apart.

Visitors are invited to step inside a world where craftsmanship, nature, and culture coexist — a space designed to linger in, appreciate the touch of fine fabrics, and experience firsthand the spirit of Solomeo, the medieval Umbrian village where the brand was born.

Carmel Plaza, already home to a curated collection of international and local luxury brands, provides a fitting setting for Brunello Cucinelli’s West Coast expansion. The boutique joins a community of distinguished names in fashion, dining, and design, introducing a globally celebrated brand that values authenticity, quality, and timeless elegance.

The Brunello Cucinelli boutique is now open at Carmel Plaza on Ocean Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Visitors are invited to explore the Fall/Winter collection and experience the brand’s signature vision of quiet luxury firsthand.

Located in Carmel Plaza directly off Ocean Avenue.

There’s something especially sweet happening at Patisserie Boissiere and it comes in the form of the restaurants newest addition, Chef Philippe Costa. Born and raised right here on the Monterey Peninsula, Philippe has come full circle, returning home to bring his creativity, precision, and love for pastry to one of Carmel’s most beloved patisseries.

Philippe’s passion for baking led him north to South Seattle College, where he earned his Associate of Applied Science in Pastry and Specialty Baking. There, he refined his technique, flavor balance, and presentation — qualities that now shine through every creation he crafts.

In 2021, Philippe’s talent caught national attention when he was featured on Food Network’s Holiday Baking Championship, Season 8, where his artistry and creativity stood out among some of the best bakers.

Now, back on the Monterey Peninsula, Philippe joins the Patisserie Boissiere team as Specialty Pastry Chef, where he’s already delighting guests with stunning custom cakes, elegant desserts, and imaginative seasonal pastries that reflect both classic French influences and California’s coastal charm.

When he’s not in the kitchen at Patisserie Boissiere, Philippe continues to pursue his passion through his freelance pastry business, creating cakes and confections for special events throughout the region.

With his thoughtful approach, artistic eye, and deep connection to the local community, Chef Philippe Costa is bringing a fresh spark to Patisserie Boissiere’s long-standing tradition of sweetness, elegance, and craftsmanship.

Whether you’re stopping in to savor one of Chef Philippe’s exquisite creations or to enjoy a leisurely French-inspired meal, Patisserie Boissiere invites you to slow down and savor the charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Looking for a more intimate way to experience Patisserie Boissiere? The restaurant is also available for private buyouts, rehearsal dinners, and special gatherings. With the holiday season just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start planning your celebration in their cozy, chateau-style setting — complete with warm hospitality, fine wine, and the flavors of France.

Carmel Plaza isn’t just a place to shop—it’s a place to indulge. Nestled in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, our open-air plaza is home to an exceptional collection of restaurants, cafes, tasting rooms, and gourmet shops that celebrate the best of flavors.

Whether you’re grabbing a casual bite or sitting down for a memorable meal, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Enjoy farm-fresh ingredients, chef driven dishes, and award-winning wines—all surrounded by the charm and beauty that make Carmel so unforgettable.

From artisan French style pastries and fresh-pressed juices to hand-crafted cocktails and elevated Mexican cuisine, our dining scene blends local flavor with worldly culinary experiences. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it at Carmel Plaza.

Where to Eat, Sip &  Stock Up at Carmel Plaza:

• Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro: House-brewed IPAs, pilsners, and mixed-fermentation ales poured alongside elevated California comfort food. Grab a table inside or on the courtyard patio and taste why this family-run brewery is a Peninsula favorite.
• Jeju Kitchen: Korean-fusion plates with California flair—think kimchi tacos, crispy chicken, and bulgogi rice bowls—served all day. Fast, flavorful, and perfect for a casual bite between shops.
• Links Club: Swing on Pebble Beach in a state-of-the-art golf simulator, then refuel with craft cocktails, local beer, and shareable tasty plates. Part sports lounge, part nightlife hotspot.
• Café Luna: Specialty coffee, loose-leaf teas, fresh pastries, ramen bowls, sandwiches, garden-fresh salads, breakfast sushi, and more—all enjoyed on a sun-splashed patio. A cozy morning or midday pick-me-up.
• Perfectly Pressed: Vibrant cold-pressed juices, superfood smoothies, and nutrient-packed bowls made with locally sourced produce. Healthy has never looked, or tasted, so good.
• The Cheese Shop: A Carmel icon for 50+ years. Sample your way through 200+ cheeses, then pair with Champagne, wine, or artisanal pantry gems for the ultimate picnic haul.
• Carmel Honey Company: Single-origin, raw Monterey County honey and bee-inspired gifts created by local beekeeper Jake Reisdorf. Be sure to take home a sweet souvenir that support pollinator education.
• Lula’s Chocolates: Hand-dipped sea-salt caramels, truffles, nostalgic nut clusters, and more all crafted from heirloom recipes right here in the Monterey area—perfect for gifts (or immediate indulgence).
• Wrath Tasting Room: Site driven Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc from the Santa Lucia Highlands. Their production is small, their distribution is limited and their wines are totally sip-worthy.
• Blair Estate Tasting Room: Family-owned, Burgundian-style Pinots & Chardonnays that honor five generations of farming heritage—served with a side of storytelling charm.
• Chalone Vineyard Tasting Room: Historic, mountain-grown wines from Monterey County’s oldest producing vineyard. Sustainably farmed and beautifully expressive of the Pinnacles terroir.
• Flying Fish Grill: A local favorite blending East-West flavors in an intimate, wood-accented setting. Enjoy standout dishes like clay pot seafood, ahi sashimi, and almond-crusted sea bass. Cozy, tucked-away, and perfect for date night or a refined seafood dinner.
• Dutch Door Donuts: Hand-shaped and fried fresh-to-order, these donuts are anything but ordinary. Think creative glazes like passionfruit, Meyer lemon, or chocolate sea salt. Plus, pillowy beignets and great coffee. A sweet stop for foodies and families alike.
• Pâtisserie Boissière: Exquisite French country dishes and french style desserts and pastries accompanied by a thoughtfully curated wine list served in a quaint, chateau-style environs.
• Rise & Roam Bakery & Pizzeria: A bright, casual spot serving all-day breakfast and lunch. Fuel up with avocado toast, breakfast burritos, soup, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, and more including artisan pastries, Revival Ice Cream and craft coffee.
• Nicolás Cocina de Herencia: A modern Mexican restaurant dedicated to crafting Mexican cuisine infused with the authentic flavors of Michoacán, where each dish is a fusion of bold flavors and the finest, sustainably sourced ingredients.

Live Music, Local Flavor, and Community Spirit in the Heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea!

This July, Carmel Plaza invites the community and visitors alike to experience the return of its much-loved Summer Live Music Series, transforming Friday evenings into a vibrant celebration of music, food, wine, and local camaraderie.

Held over three Fridays—July 11, 18, and 25, from 5 to 7 PM—the series features free live performances by local favorites The Money Band and Chicano All Stars, alongside delicious bites and pours from beloved Carmel Plaza and other local restaurants and tasting rooms.

Photo: Michael Troutman/www.dmtimaging.com | The Money Band

2025 Summer Live Music Lineup

• July 11 – The Money Band
  Food: Links Club | Wine: Wrath Wines
  Nonprofits: Animal Friends Rescue Project & Golden Oldies Cat Rescue

• July 18 – Chicano All Stars
  Food & Beer: Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro | Wine: Blair Estate Wines 
  Nonprofits: Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History & Wonder on Wheels

• July 25 – The Money Band
  Food: Café Carmel | Wine: Scheid Family Wines
  Nonprofit: Carmel Woman’s Club (celebrating their 100th anniversary) & The Carmel Public Library Foundation

Photo: Michael Troutman/www.dmtimaging.com | Links Club

Eat, Sip & Support

Guests can purchase $25 food and drink packages (21+ with valid ID), with $5 from each package benefiting a featured local nonprofit. Attendees can also enjoy free samples from Perfectly Pressed Carmel, one of Carmel Plaza’s newest tenants, offered on all three evenings near the ticket booth.

The food and drink package features offerings from local favorites including:

• Links Club

• Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro

• Café Carmel

• Wrath Wines

• Blair Estate Wines

• Scheid Family Wines

Photo: Michael Troutman/www.dmtimaging.com

The Celebration Continues

Several Carmel Plaza restaurants stay open late on Fridays, perfect for a relaxed post-show dinner or cocktail.

Don’t want the night to end? Links Club is your official after-party spot! Once the music wraps at 7 PM, guests are invited to continue the fun with live music, golf simulators, tasty food, and drinks at Links Club.

“We’ve been proud to support the Summer Live Music Series since its return in 2022,” says April Montgomery, Owner of Links Club. “Our participation reflects our dedication to enriching our community’s cultural landscape and providing a vibrant space for musicians and music lovers alike.”

Tasting Rooms Open During Event

All three Carmel Plaza tasting rooms will remain open during the event. The live music provides a lively backdrop for your evening wine flight.

“Come enjoy the music and Wrath’s Pinot Noirs—voted by locals as ‘The Best Red Wine’ in Monterey County,” says Claire Marlin of Wrath Wines— Wrath will also be featured during the kickoff event on July 11th alongside Links Club.

Photo: Michael Troutman/www.dmtimaging.com

Location: Carmel Plaza Courtyard — Ocean Avenue & Mission Street, Carmel, CA 93921
Admission: Free to attend | Food & wine packages available for $25 (21+ with valid ID)
Time: 5–7 PM | Fridays, July 11, 18, and 25

Come for the music, stay for the memories—Carmel Plaza’s Summer Live Music Series is the can’t-miss community event of the summer.

For over half a century, The Cheese Shop has been delighting locals and visitors with exceptional cheeses, fine wines, and gourmet goods—50 of those years as a cherished cornerstone of Carmel Plaza. As one of the Plaza’s longest-standing tenants, The Cheese Shop has been serving up world-class flavors with a side of charming hospitality since 1973.

Step inside and explore a cornucopia of culinary treasures. With over 200 varieties of cheese sourced from around the globe, there’s something for every palate—from creamy and tangy to bold and savory. But the tasting adventure doesn’t end there. Guests can also indulge in a curated selection of fine wines, craft beers, and gourmet accompaniments.

Looking to elevate your tasting experience? The Cheese Shop offers wine and cheese pairings right in the shop. Savor expertly crafted combinations that showcase the best of both worlds, all while enjoying the welcoming ambiance that has made this shop a beloved destination for decades.

Over the years, The Cheese Shop has earned national acclaim, being featured on the Travel Channel and Food Network as a “Must-See Destination.” And for good reason—their team’s passion for sharing the stories behind every cheese and wine shines through in every interaction.

Join us in celebrating The Cheese Shop’s 52nd anniversary and 50 incredible years at Carmel Plaza. Stop by, say hello, and toast to decades of delicious memories in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea. You’ll find them in the Courtyard of Carmel Plaza.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Plaza is more than just a shopping center—it’s an experience that embodies the charm, elegance, and beauty of the area. Whether you’re a local looking for a wellness studio and your go-to coffee shop or a visitor exploring the best of Carmel, this premier destination offers a perfect blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment in a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.

Shop: A Curated Selection of Unique Finds

Carmel Plaza is home to a mix of high-end designer brands, specialty stores, and locally owned shops that showcase the best of fashion, home décor, and artisanal goods. Browse through stores featuring luxurious apparel, handcrafted jewelry, and unique gifts that make for perfect keepsakes. Whether you’re shopping for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, Carmel Plaza offers a wonderful shopping experience for local and visitors alike.

Dine: Culinary Delights for Every Taste

Following an afternoon of shopping, indulge in the diverse dining options available at Carmel Plaza. From casual cafés serving fresh pastries and coffee to full service restaurants offering everything from high end Mexican cuisine (Nicolas de Cocina Herencia) to a French Country style menu (Patisserie Boissiere), and even Korean flavors (Jeju Kitchen). There’s something for every craving. If you’re in the mood for a more relaxed experience, grab a bite to go and a seat at one of the firepits and soak in the charming ambiance of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Relax: Enjoy a Glass of Wine in Style

Carmel Plaza is also a great stop for wine lovers, featuring three renowned tasting rooms that highlight the exceptional wines of Monterey County. Whether you’re a fan of reds or whites, these local tasting rooms offer a delightful journey through the region’s finest selections. If you want to pair your wine tasting with cheese, be sure to stop into the Plaza’s oldest tenant, The Cheese Shop, which has been a Carmel local’s favorite for over 50 years.

Experience: More Than Just a Shopping Destination

Carmel Plaza frequently hosts seasonal events, live music, and exclusive pop-up shops. Whether you’re planning a leisurely day of shopping and dining or looking for a special event to enjoy with friends and family, Carmel Plaza is a must-visit destination in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Carmel Plaza, Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Destination for the Best of Everything.

We’ve got some incredible news to share—Carmel Plaza is welcoming two fantastic businesses in 2025, bringing even more variety and top-notch experiences to our beloved shopping and dining destination! Whether you’re looking for a health boost or a moment of relaxation we’ve now got you covered. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming soon:

Perfectly Pressed Carmel: Juices, Smoothies & Bowls

Starting in February, Perfectly Pressed Carmel will offer a vibrant menu of cold-pressed juices and cleanses, all-natural smoothies, and nutritious bowls, all crafted with locally sourced produce and the freshest toppings. Whether you’re looking for a quick, healthy snack or a refreshing pick-me-up, Perfectly Pressed Carmel promises to make healthy eating both easy and delicious. Their commitment to quality ingredients and bold flavors will make it your go-to destination for a nutritious boost on the go. They will be located on courtyard level right next to Café Luna.

Signature Day Spa: Relax, Rejuvenate, and Renew

If you’ve been craving a luxurious escape, look no further than Signature Day Spa—a serene, eco-friendly day spa offering the ultimate in organic and chemical-free beauty and wellness treatments. From soothing body wraps and exfoliating scrubs to high-end facials like Hydra-facial and Dermaplaning, Signature Day Spa will have you looking and feeling your best. And that’s not all—expect to indulge in professional hair and makeup services, waxing, and even body stretching. Plus, there will be a Himalayan Salt Room, the first in Monterey County. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, refresh, and enjoy a little self-care in a natural, sustainable environment.

Carmel Plaza is proud to be Monterey Peninsula’s premier shopping and dining destination offering the community over 40 one-of-a-kind fashion finds and specialty national brands, distinctive restaurants, gourmet shops, wine tasting rooms, wellness studios, and more. Carmel Plaza—The Best of Everything!

The holiday season is here, and it’s time to find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list!  Whether you’re looking for cozy winter wear, dazzling jewelry, a hostess gift, or fun stocking stuffers, the shops at Carmel Plaza have everything you need to make this holiday season extra special. There truly is something for everyone at Carmel Plaza.

Natalie Baroni, located on the 2nd level of Carmel Plaza, is celebrating 21 years of jewelry design and couture. To celebrate this milestone Carmel Magazine recently wrote a feature on Natalie and her well established and respected fashion design business. You can read the article in the most recent Carmel Magazine issue, on stands now, or just keep reading here.

Natalie Baroni is known as “The Star of Ocean Avenue.” It’s a well-deserved honor. Her jewelry and couture designs have been featured at red carpet award shows internationally and have been the go-to choice for discriminating women attending the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

“My collections are all inspired by my Italian heritage and life-style, and named after Italian waterfront cities,” she says.

Baroni grew up in the fine/classical jewelry business—in fact, she is the latest in a multigenerational line of jewelers who have designed pieces for Italian nobility. “Jewelry is my foundation,” she says. “It’s my heart and soul.”

Her career was jump started when Saks Fifth Avenue featured one of her jewelry collections in their stores nationwide. In a fateful twist, her Carmel boutique occupies part of that luxury retailer’s former footprint in the Carmel Plaza.

Her couture fashion and jewelry creations are designed for women of taste who lead an active, traveling lifestyle. “My clients travel a great deal and need to look glamorous at the resorts they go to,” Baroni says. “The pieces travel extremely well.” And they’re designed to be versatile and interchangeable. “A woman can pull together a day to evening look absolutely effortlessly.”

Natalie Baroni Atelier is located in the Carmel Plaza on the second level directly off of Ocean Avenue.

Natalie Baroni featured in the Fall 2024 Carmel Magazine