Seventh Dolores - Carmel-by-the-Sea

Everything was amazing. The best twice baked potato I've ever had. Perfectly cooked steak. Delicious cocktails. Fantastic service. It was a little drafty inside which made the indoor dining area pretty cold. Ambience was nice but a little loud, not too bad though and after a few minutes it actually added to our sense of privacy.

I’m going to write this review because I care about this place as an institution because among my circles here in town, that’s how it’s regarded. First, the actual restaurant floor. Too loud, the music is too loud and steals away from the experience. I’m at a restaurant not a disco, please make that experience come to life. The food was decent but it was not special, specially considering the price. Our medium well done ribeye was well done. Unacceptable to be honest. The wine list is extensive and I appreciate that. However, for the price and prestige that this place holds an updated list is the bare minimum. If a bottle isn’t available, print a new menu for the night. Overall, disappointing. This was a place I had looked forward to and it failed. There are better options in Carmel and in Monterey. I won’t list places out of respect for the staff and the owners but as a customer you’ll find them. For $500, I expected more — a lot more.

The lamb chops and bone in ribeye steaks are very good. Very tender and flavorful. I give them five star just for that. The onion soup is in a bitters side, and the crab cake I didn’t care for it.

Food was great and waiter was very nice. I recommend that you don’t make a late reservation. Tonight, we were a party of 6 and had to make reservations for 9pm (had an event prior to dinner). There were still other parties eating and we were enjoying our dessert when they blasted the bright lights on and turned off the music. Suddenly my delicious warm bread pudding a gorgeous Cabernet didn’t taste the same. It felt like we were in a college pub, it’s last call and they want to clear everyone out.. The ambiance you expect when you pay $1,000 for dinner and cocktails, is totally obliterated. Eat there early and you should be fine. Otherwise, expect a total buzz kill during your dinner.

This was our last night in Carmel and our daughter recommended Seventh and Dolores (a Michelin Rated Restaurant). All I can say is WOW! We sat outside and it was perfect because they have heaters. Fantastic service, food, atmosphere, bartender, etc. See pictures as it is hard to explain.