Sip, Savor, and Stroll: The Ultimate Wine and Dine Walking Tour of the Crossroads Carmel

Planning a visit to Carmel-by-the-Sea for some wine-tasting and dining? While downtown Carmel is best known for its gourmet dining and fine wine, it’s not the only spot in town to enjoy perfectly balanced, elegant wines and great food.

The Crossroads Carmel – an upscale outdoor shopping village just off Highway 1 – is a great place to explore. With a variety of shops, restaurants, and plenty of free parking, it’s a fun place to enjoy a leisurely afternoon of shopping and indulge in some of the best (and finest) local flavors. Whether you’re a foodie or a wine enthusiast, here are some of the must-visit spots where you can sip, savor, and stroll through this charming destination.

Wine Tasting

Nestled in the coastal paradise of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the Crossroads offers the perfect setting for a sophisticated and memorable wine-tasting experience. Whether you’re an oenophile or a casual wine imbiber, the sunny weather and beautiful scenery make it an ideal spot.

With so many wineries, we’ll help you narrow down the best ones to sip wine with a view at The Crossroads Carmel.

Taste Morgan

Taste Morgan– Your First Organic Sip Spot

Located in the heart of The Crossroads Carmel, Taste Morgan brings the family’s history and craft to life with a relaxed wine-tasting experience.

This family-owned, organically farmed winery offers flights and wines by the glass. The tasting room is chic and has outdoor seating. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by knowledgeable staff eager to guide you through a tasting.

Morgan features a wide variety of Pinot Noirs from various vineyards in the Santa Lucia Highlands, including their estate vineyard, Double L. Most of the Pinots are single-vineyard, allowing you to taste the region’s unique terroir.

Pro Tip: While you can walk in, reservations are recommended for a smooth, world-class wine-tasting experience.

VIN Wine Bar – A Go-To Spot for Boutique Wines

Vin Wine Bar offers a curated choice of boutique wines by the glass, wine tastings, and bottles for sale.

At Vin you can choose from a selection of local wines but also unique finds from all over California and the world. All bottles of wine by the glass are on the Coravin preservation system, which means each glass and every sip is fresh.

Vin Wine Bar is the perfect spot to pop in for a glass of wine or a tasting flight while strolling The Crossroads Carmel shops and stores.

While there, be sure to snap a selfie in front of their fun neon sign!

VIN Wine Bar

Where to Eat at The Crossroads Carmel

If you’re done shopping and wine tasting, how about grabbing a bite to eat?

Carmel has a delectable culinary scene, providing a range of dining experiences to please any palate – and The Crossroads Carmel is no exception. Whether you’re craving a burger, smoky barbecue, seafood, or something light, you’ll find it at The Crossroads Carmel. Unquestionably, this town offers a culinary journey highlighting local and international flavors.

Let’s explore.

Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Company

Looking for a quick pick-me-up? Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Company is a local favorite with plenty to offer. They serve delicious, perfectly roasted coffee, sumptuous snacks, and tasty teas.

Whether you’re starting your day or winding it down, this is the perfect spot. Enjoy your treats in their cozy indoor lounge or soak up some sun on the garden patio. The place has something for every coffee lover.

Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Company

R.G. Burgers

R.G. Burgers

One good bite of a burger from R.G. Burgers, and you’ll find a new favorite spot. This family-friendly atmosphere offers hand-formed, extra-lean burgers that are char-grilled to perfection. You can choose from ground beef, chicken breast, turkey, bison, or falafel.

Don’t forget to try their sandwiches, grilled hot dogs, delectable shakes, and fresh soups and salads. Whether it’s takeaway or dine-in, R.G. Burgers is a “real good” place to fuel your appetite.

The Crossroads BBQ

For lunch, head over to The Crossroads BBQ!

Crossroads BBQ serves California’s best real smoked meats, craft beer, and a mouthwatering wood-fired aroma. From the sauces and seasonings to the meat options, such as Meaty Beef Back Ribs, Brisket, and BBQ Mac, their dishes are a treat and a must-try.

And that’s not it! For your breakfast cravings, they also offer amazing breakfast tacos and sandwiches. Yum!

The Crossroads BBQ

China Delight

China Delight

China Delight offers classic, fresh, family-style Chinese cuisine. Enjoy authentic Cantonese dishes surrounded by elaborate Asian decor.

Feeling hungry? Don’t miss the chef’s Chow Fun – it’s a favorite! From classic meat and seafood dishes to delicious soups and noodle combos, there’s something for everyone.

Many guests love the great prices and speedy service, and they say you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

C.U. Sushi

Besides delicious sushi rolls, customers love their expertly cut nigiri sushi, oval-shaped rice with a slice of raw fish on top. The bento boxes are a must-try. You can also sift through a broad selection of beverages, including kombuchas on tap and draft beers.

C.U. Sushi’s minimalist yet inviting décor creates a comfortable atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to unwind with your favorite sushi. It’s also a fantastic place to try a creative new dish or stick with the classics, all while enjoying friendly service.

C.U. Sushi

Lula’s Chocolates

Lula’s Chocolates

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Lula’s Chocolates is where you’ll want to indulge. This place will satisfy your sugar craving while sending you down a nostalgic trip. Lula’s brings a bit of grandma’s kitchen to Carmel, crafting artisan candies with love and a sprinkle of magic. 

Beyond their famous sea salt caramels and buttery toffees, there’s also a playful side to Lula’s. Ever tried a chocolate-covered cherry that actually makes you smile? You will here. And if you’re lucky, you might get a complimentary sample of your next favorite sweet treat. Whether you’re picking up a box for a special occasion or just treating yourself, Lula’s adds a touch of whimsy to every bite.

Breadsong/Steakcraft

BreadSong/SteakCraft is more than just a spot for sandwiches and steaks—it’s a culinary playground for food lovers. You walk in for a simple sandwich, but what you get is a work of art on sourdough that sings (literally) with flavor. Their artisanal approach to every bite makes it feel like you’re dining in a hidden gem, where the chefs are artists and the plates are their canvas.

As the sun sets, the place transforms into SteakCraft, where the real magic happens. Their steaks aren’t just cooked; they’re pampered, with each cut of meat handled like a prized possession. Whether you’re a fan of the melt-in-your-mouth domestic varieties or the richly marbled Japanese wagyu, the experience here is pure indulgence. 

And don’t skip the sides—they’re just as much the star of the show. If you’re a fan of dining experiences that leave you talking about the meal for days, BreadSong/SteakCraft is your must-visit spot at The Crossroads.

Breadsong/Steakcraft

A Toast to Unforgettable Moments

As you explore The Crossroads Carmel, each stop on your wine-and-dine walking tour offers a unique and memorable taste of this charming locale. Gather your friends, embrace the adventure, and get ready to sip, savor, and create lasting memories in one of Carmel’s most enchanting spots. Cheers to your next great adventure