Joongchul Shin – from South Korea – wants to move to NYC and work in fashion. Here’s what he thought of Carmel Plaza.

The Carmel Plaza is a big shopping center in Carmel. There are place a lot of the shops. Unfortunately the most shops are for woman’s things. For example clothes, jewelry, interior, watches, bags and so on.

The Carmel Plaza consists of 3 floors. The First floor is a coffee shop (Carmel Coffee & Cocoa Bar) like Starbucks, a kitchen and home shop and an interior shop, a jewelry shop, a kid shop, and a cafeteria.

The Second floor has lady clothes shops – such as Anubee, Madrigal, J. Jill, Talbots – a vessel shop, an outdoor shop (outdoor clothe, footwear, hat, sunglasses), luxury brand shops – such as Bottega Veneta, Louis Vuitton – and a shoe shop.

On the third floor is a jewelry shop. In addition, there is a gallery. The name is Raskin. It has a famous artist pictures. There is not only shopping, but also experiencing the local culture.

It’s surrounded by trees, and flowers gave me a good impression. Most people said “Carmel is very clean and peaceful.” I think so too. This is my first time traveling to Carmel. If we had more time, we would go to more places. Carmel is a small town, and it is very peaceful place.

Address: Ocean Ave & Mission St Carmel, CA, 93921

Phone: (831) 624-1385

Time: Mon-Sat 10a.m.~6p.m.  Sun 11a.m.~5p.m.

Website: www.carmelplaza.com

A big thank you to Joongchul and the rest of our contributors!

Takaaki Ishii just returned to Yokohama, Japan to continue studying business. Here’s his take on Carmel Plaza.

The Great Shopping Mall named ‘Carmel Plaza’

Address: Ocean Ave between Junipero Ave & Mission St Carmel, CA 93923

The Carmel Plaza has a lot of good stores about shopping and eating. Also, the Carmel Plaza can make you happy. Ah! Now did you know how it can make me happy? If you’re going to go there, you can understand. So, you should go there!
Do you like to go shopping? —Yes! Do you like the garden? — Yes!! Do you like pretty places? — Yes!!! Do you like peaceful places? — Yes!!!! If you say yes to one question from these four questions, than you should go the Carmel Plaza. It has more than 35 fine shops and restaurants in a classy setting. It is for going shopping!
Next, could you look at the first picture? The Carmel Plaza has a lot of flowers and trees. So, if you like a flower or a garden, you should go there. Also, it is very pretty and cute place. So, if you like this, you should go there.

But, I want to say something for all men. All men must be resolved… It’s a very nice place but all shops or stores are for woman! So, if you want to buy some men’s clothes, maybe it was difficult to find… But, I think all girls will like this place. So, if you want to make her or your girl friend happy, you endure the tiresomeness feeling and you should go Carmel Plaza.
P.S. many people bring dogs in here. So, if you want to bring dogs or if you want to watch some dogs, you should go to the Carmel Plaza!

Thanks, Takaaki!

Mohammed Abdulmajeed- from Iraq on a special government initiative- wants to study business in the US. Here’s what he thought of Nielsen Market.

It is very important when going to Carmel that you go to Nielsen Market, because it is one of important markets in this town.

7th Ave. AT San Carlos, Carmel, CA 93921
Phone: 831-624-6441 Fax: 831-624-3170 Email: market@nielsenbros.com Web address: www.nielsenmarket.com

Nielsen Market is one of the old markets in Carmel town. It was founded in 1930 by Nielsen brothers. This market is very important in this town because it provides a good competitive service through the delivery of products to home. This process has made this market special in this town because it is easier for people to do shopping and also provide parties with various foods and alcoholic beverages.

This market offers different types of foods: canned foods such as legumes, spices, pickles, sauce and various kinds of fresh meat, such as beef, pork and lamb. And there are various kinds of cheeses from all over world.
There is also a section for selling of alcohol beverages and a place to taste wine. The customers can taste of alcohol on Saturday every week, and there also is a place for selling all kinds of vegetables outside.

There is also a place for eating snacks, where visitors can sit in an allocated place and ask for meals. The menu contains a lot of meals from different parts of the world, such as beef kabob, Italian sausage, chicken kabob and also there are fresh daily salads, antipastas, sandwiches, and in the market there is a place to provide meals from other places of the world, such as taboule, boereg, Greek dolma, vegetable cake, and Turkish baklava… etc.

As for working hours, the market is opening at 7:00 a.m. and closes at 8:30 p.m. during the week, except on Saturday it closes at 8:00PM, and there is also a parking place for free.

Thank you, Mohammed!

Rahma Al Ketbi – from the United Arab Emirates – wants to attend an undergraduate university in the US . Here’s what she thought of Artemis Boots:

“Rest Your Feet in Our Store”

Although Carmel is a small town it only takes you into historical and natural views. It located on the pacific coast. This location helps Carmel to be attractive to tourists.

I took look in Carmel, and I was amazed from many things. Such as shops, restaurants, hotels and bars. Although there are a lot of amazing things, I choose one thing to share it with you. It’s Artemis Boot or as they are known in “Artemis Collection Turkish Art Importe”.

If you need the warmth for your feet, if you want elegant in your appearance and if you are looking for warranty in the purchase, hurry up to the Artemis Boots. They have all boots that you want.

Artemis Boots have a lot of designed boots. Especially cowboy style. Of course with guarantee that you need. It will be with you for a long time, because it is made by hands.

I talked to Carolyn. She works there. She told me the owner of this shop is Erkan Demir. He is Turkish. He came from 2 years ago, from Istanbul the capital of Turkey to USA, for the purpose of opening the shop.

I asked her if they get a lot of costumers. “We have every day around 13 to 20 customers,” she said.

There are boots knee lengths. It costs $290 that one made by velvet, another one made by lather it costs $350. Also there is another style. But it not into yours knee. It is to your half leg. It costs $250. Styles include Cuban, Italian, Gypsy, Cowboy, and Style 2010. Each style featuring various toe and heel designs.

The great event that all people wait for is opening branches in the other states in the next year, such as Tennessee, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, etc.

So I hope you will be comfortable in this shop and find what you want. I will not hide my feelings of joy when you become special customer.

Address: Artemis Boots, Doud Craft Studios, San Carlos & Ocean
Mailbox: P.O. Box 5685
Location: Carmel, CA 93921
Phone: (831)-622-9242
Website: inquiries@artemisboots.com

Thank you, Rahma!

Maybe he gave the world’s best shoulder-rides, used songs and silliness to teach the times tables, taste-tested your first culinary experiments, explained philosophy and history on the way to swim practice, or forgave you for reverse-accelerating his Mustang into your grandma’s living room.

Dads are extraordinarily forgiving, but this is still a bad idea. Photo courtesy of www.stangpit.com

Maybe he sat through forty other kids playing chopsticks in a stuffy auditorium just so you’d get a wave and a thumbs-up from the audience; “Of course, your unique rendition of chopsticks was worth the wait.”

Prodigies in the Making

That, my friends, is unconditional love, and it’s payback time.

This year, Father’s Day weekend coincides with golf’s biggest, busiest event, The Pebble Beach-hosted US Open. You’ll save alot of money, not to mention your sanity, by waiting until next weekend to join your family on a sights and activities-packed trip to Carmel.

To help you along, we’ve created five guides for five types of fathers. Mix and match to your heart’s content, then check out 6 Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day in Carmel, California for even more ideas.

Carmel Weekend Get-Away Plans for Five Types of Fathers

1. The Family Man

Uncle Dale: Grill Master

The devoted and selfless Family Man resists the celebratory spotlight, but secretly loves any holiday that unites his favorite people. He’s laid-back and appreciates tradition, so don’t mess with his annual Father’s Day backyard bbq. Instead — surprise him next weekend, or in a few weeks, with a mini-family reunion in Carmel; bonus points if you wrangle together out-of-state siblings, aunts and uncles. Choose a centrally located hotel with a pool and lots of rooms to serve as “home-base”, and accommodate diverse interests by breaking into smaller groups for area attraction-exploration, then meet up for dinner* at Il Fornaio or Forge in the Forest. Both spots are friendly, classy, and not at all stuffy; sound like someone you know?

* Always make dinner reservations for larger groups.

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2. The Outdoorsman

My fiancee and fish wrangling future father-in-law, Paul

School’s finally out; why are you being dragged out of bed at 6am? It’s fishing season, of course. You’re not nearly as thrilled as your dad, who woke an hour earlier to assemble your license, poles, tackle and maps, then managed to pack two meals, snacks, bottled waters, and a few sodas into a 6-pack cooler. He’s a man of the elements — prepared, determined, steadfast. Your hero.

Paul Teaches us a Lesson in Emergency First-Aid

Years later, you understand that those long afternoons on the lake and in the brush were about more than just conquering the elements and scoring fresh, tasty meals.

An expedition through Carmel and Big Sur, complete with horseback riding, fishing and whale watching tours, kayaking, hiking, biking, sailing, scuba diving, and Carmel Beach surfing says, “Thanks, Dad, for passing on your sense of adventure, your level-headed confidence and strong character — and for teaching me valuable everyday skills, like how to remove a rusty fish-hook from my index finger without fainting overboard.”

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3. The Big Kid-at-Heart

Zucchini's, on Cannery Row

He’s light, playful, and manages to turn even typically tedious errands into games. Not one to restrict the fun to his own family, he routinely shares his driveway basketball court, game room, and backyard paintball field with every kid in the neighborhood, and his little league coaching seasons are the stuff of legend. Child-like, but not childish, this dad is personally committed to exampling fair play, good sportsmanship, and universal respect, especially towards the young and soft-spoken.

Thinker Toys, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Reward your favorite fun-seeker with a spontaneous trip to Carmel, where he and your family can visit Thinker Toys — the area’s coolest independent toy store, play frisbee on Carmel-by-the-Sea Beach, imagine hilarious exchanges between Todd White’s wacky painted characters, indulge your inner prankster at Zucchini’s Tricks n Things on Cannery Row, shoot a few rounds of pool at Blue Fin Billiards, then head downstairs to The Cannery Row Pizzeria and Wine Cellar to try your hand at Karaoke, spend an afternoon exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium, swap vacation stories with your trolley companions, and wind down with a family-movie night. You can’t go wrong with Toy Story 3 (98% fresh!), which is showing at Monterey’s Del Monte Theater in Disney 3D and Pacific Grove’s Lighthouse Cinemas in 2D.

If you don’t mind an extra 45 minutes on the road, set aside a bonus day for Gilroy Gardens, and bring this coupon for 1/2 off weekday passes in June and July.

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Kids in Carmel: Two Totally Unboring Art Galleries
Uncovered: Monterey’s Top 12 Cannery Row Coupons and Outlets

4. The Class Act

2010 US Open Contender Phil Mickelson, Keeping it Classy

His calm, unassuming demeanor belies a passionately intuitive internal compass, a steadfast commitment to quality, honor, and respect. Charismatic and authentically charming, he ignites spontaneous friendship wherever he goes. He holds the door. He carries quality conversations. He’s unstoppable with a 9 iron. Heck yes; he’s your dad, and he’s a class act.

You’ve always admired his tenacious initiative; seize this opportunity to show him you’ve been paying attention. It’s so easy. Carmel’s his kind of town.

The Carriage House Inn, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Classy trips needn’t be ridiculously expensive, and your dad prefers a quality experience over a pricy one, anyways. Focus on a couple of his favorite past times and experiences, set him and your mom up in the four-diamond, authentically styled Carriage House Inn, and explore Carmel-by-the-Sea’s boutiques and fine art galleries by foot.

Chateau Julien Winery, photo courtesy of www.bondmag.com

If your dad’s into golf, challenge him to an afternoon on Pebble Beach’s world-famous links, home to the recently-concluded US Open. More ways to experience quintessentially-classy Carmel: tasting your way through the Chateau Julien Wine Estate, dining in Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Casanova restaurant, investing in a Robert Talbott hand sewn silk necktie, and catching a performance at Carmel’s Sunset Theater.

Related Article:
Best of Carmel Close-up: the Winfield Gallery

5. The Professor

My Favorite Teacher

He might be an eccentric inventor, a pensive philosopher, an english literature lover, or a well-traveled cultural anthropologist. To you, he’s just “Dad — the best storyteller EVER.”

Thanks to him, you’re inquisitive, open-minded, and probably a lot of fun at dinner parties. The Professor thrives on unique learning opportunities, namely, exploring The Monterey Peninsula’s distinctive history and exchanging observations with like-minded theorists — like you!

Follow Old Monterey's Path of History to The Larkin House

For starters, check out The Carmel Mission, The Monterey History and Maritime Museum, The Pacific Grove Natural History Museum, The Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Old Downtown Monterey’s Path of History, and The Monterey Museum of Art.

The Carmel Coffee House on Ocean Avenue, Cafe Cardinale

Discuss antique shop highlights and rare book finds at Ocean Avenue’s Carmel Coffee House, grab a bottle of wine and chat with locals at The Carmel Barnyard Farmer’s Market, and relive dad’s legendary stories around a Carmel-by-the-Sea Beach bonfire.

Related Articles:
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Soulful-by-the-Sea
6 Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day in Carmel, California

Wishing you were here, Dad. Happy Father's Day.

As you put the finishing touches on your Epic Carmel Vacation Plan, just remember, your dad’s an original, baby, and won’t fit neatly into a single type. Celebrate his quirks, inside jokes, and everything else you love about him — your way.

The P.G. Farmer's Market, Lighthouse Avenue -- with Eventual Plans to Relocate to Central Avenue

Monday: The Pacific Grove Farmer’s Market
4pm – 8pm (summer)
3pm — 7pm (winter)
Lighthouse Ave. between Forest Ave. and 17th St.
Pacific Grove 93950

Head to P.G. on Monday for some Farmer's Market Flora

You’ll Love: These freshly cut flowers, especially the 50 cents-a-stem gerbera daisies.

I Bet You Know a Gerbera Daisy-Lover Who Could Use a Pick-Me-Up...

* According to the Monterey Herald, the Pacific Grove city council has unanimously voted to relocate the farmer’s market to Central Avenue, between Fountain and Forest, and halfway up Grand towards Lighthouse Avenue. Until the permits are changed, the market will remain on Lighthouse. I’ll keep you guys updated.

Pacific Grove Farmer's Market Map

Tuesday: The Carmel Farmer’s Market (May-September)
9am-1pm
3690 The Barnyard
Carmel, CA 93923
Monterey Herald Shout-Out

Carmel Farmer's Market Photo Courtesy of MontereyBayFarmers.org

Carmel's Market-Fresh Produce, Photo Courtesy of MontereyBayFarmers.org

You’ll love: Environmental crusader and bee-keeper Lynne Bottazzo’s organic Amen Honey stand.

Itty-Bitty Honey-Stand Photo Courtesy of MontereyBayFarmers.org

Carmel Farmer's Market Map

Tuesday: The Old Monterey Marketplace
4pm-8pm (summer)
4pm-7pm (winter)
Alvarado Street and West Franklin Street
Monterey, CA 93940
Reviews

Tuesday's Old Monterey Marketplace, on Alvarado

You’ll love: The delicious and broad selection of internationally inspired prepared food. OldMonterey.org elaborates, “Arts and crafts vendors come from around the world, selling treasures from Africa, Colombia, Mexico, Russia, Japan, China, and Yugoslavia, just to name a few.”

Browse Surprisingly Affordable Cashmere Scarves on Western end of Alvarado

“Our food vendors also serve up delicacies that are as international as our products serving up Indian, Japanese, Korean, Mexican, Mediterranean, and BBQ delicacies. In our Baker’s Alley you can find fresh pastries like baklava, European breads, cookies, muffins, pies, and cakes.” When in doubt, go for the gourmet cupcakes!

Smoky BBQ Goodness at Monterey's Farmer's Market

The Best. BEST. Root Beer Around.

Monterey Farmer's Market Map

Wednesday: Santa Cruz Farmer’s Market (Downtown)
2:30pm – 6:30pm
Lincoln and Cedar Streets
Santa Cruz, CA 95060

You’ll Love: The (ever-expanding) size, selection, cooking demonstrations, veggie valet, and unofficial but enthusiastic sitar-playing hippies. It’s a market for market-lovers, and you’d have to be; Santa Cruz is an hour’s drive north of Carmel. Ideally, you’ll plan ahead and pass through Santa Cruz on the way to, or home from, Carmel. Imagine the car-ride snacking opportunities!

Downtown Santa Cruz Market Photo Courtesy of SantaCruzFarmers.org

Santa Cruz Farmer's Market Photo Courtesy of SeasonalChef.com

Downtown Santa Cruz Farmer's Market

Thursday: The Monterey Peninsula College Farmer’s Market
2:30pm-6pm
Monterey Peninsula College
930 Fremont Street
Monterey, CA 93940
Monterey Herald Shout-Out

You’ll love: Kay Gatanaga’s roses, and the Community College’s ample public parking.

Kay Gatanaga's Roses, at the MPC Farmer's Market, Photo Courtesy of MontereyBayFarmers.org

Monterey Peninsula College Farmer's Market Photo Courtesy of MontereyBayFarmers.org

Monterey Peninsula College Farmer's Market Map

Friday: Local Grocery Favorites

Visiting during the only market-free day? If you’re dead-set on eating in, want some tasty locally prepared snacks to tide you over between meals, or spaced out and forgot to pack a toothbrush — resist the Walmart-urge; check out these independently owned groceries:

Bruno’s Market and Delicatessen in Carmel-By-The-Sea
6th and Junipero
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-3821
Reviews

You’ll love: Bruno’s sandwiches — legendary among locals.

Bruno's Produce, Photo Courtesy of www.brunosmarket.com

Bruno's Deli Map, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Nielsen Bros. Market in Carmel-By-The-Sea
7th and San Carlos
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-5939
Reviews

You’ll love: The huge wine selection and early-afternoon tastings!

Nielsen Brother's Market & Deli, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Neilsen's Brother's Map, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Grove Market in Pacific Grove
242 Forest Ave
Pacific Grove, CA 93950
(831) 375-9581
Reviews

You’ll love: The homey small-town vibe, and experienced meat department staff. Last year, they rightfully earned The Monterey County Weekly’s “Best Butcher Shop and Hometown Market” title.

The Grove Market, Pacific Grove, Photo Courtesy of Yelp.com

Grove Market Map, Downtown Pacific Grove

Troia’s Market in Old Montereyy
350 Pacific Street
Monterey, CA 93940
(831) 375-9810
Reviews

You’ll love: The rare international goods, and friendly run-ins with the market’s worldly neighbors — Monterey Institute of International Studies students.

Troia's Market, Photo Courtesy of Yelp.com

Troia's Market Map, Old Monterey

Saturday: Salinas Certified Farmer’s Market
9am-2pm
Main Street and Central Avenue
Salinas, CA 93901

You’ll love: The affordable prepared food (2 dollar tacos!) and ample picnic table seating.

Salinas Farmer's Market Hot Dog Vender Photo Courtesy of Flikr.com

2 Dollar Tacos at Salinas' Certified Farmer's Market, Photo Courtesy of Flikr.com

Salinas Certified Farmer's Market Map

Sunday: Del Monte Farmer’s Market (June-October)
8am-noon
Del Monte Shopping Center
1410 Del Monte Center
Monterey, 93940
Monterey Herald Shout-Out

You’ll love: The location. Post-market, spend a lazy Sunday afternoon browsing The Del Monte Center, and anything accidentally omitted from your grocery list can be snagged from Whole Foods — right next door.

A Still from the Del Monte Market's Televised Grand Opening

Del Monte Farmer's Market Map

Sunday: Marina Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Market
10am-2pm
215 Reservation Road
Marina, CA 93933

You’ll love: The market’s dedication to the community and small-scale family farmers.

Marina Everyone's Harvest Market Photo Courtesy of EveryonesHarvest.org

Marina Everyone's Harvest Farmer's Market Map

Share your favorite markets and vendors in the comments; happy foraging, visitors!

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1. Enjoy Carmel’s Asiatic Outdoor Attractions and Zen Retreats

Chinese Lantern Flowers, Near Carmel Plaza

The Devendorf Park Koi Pond

Junipero, between Ocean & 6th
Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
Website

Look around with fresh eyes, and take in the area’s naturally asiatic features, which include Japanese lantern flowers, bougainvilleas, and bamboo. Give your journey a lucky-start with a visit Devendorf Park’s koi pond. The colorful breed, created during the Chinese Jin Dynasty, are technically just fancy domesticated carp, but when you consider the area’s circling hungry-sea-bird population, their “lucky” reputation is perfectly justified.

The Devendorf Park Koi Pond

Monterey Bay Zen Center and Sculpture Garden

Carl Cherry Center for the Arts
4th & Guadalupe
(831) 375-7826
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
Website

Nestled into a residential area three blocks above downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, The Carl Cherry Center’s Zen Center and Sculpture Garden encourage quiet reflection, and provide a sun-dappled respite from the hustle and bustle of your day. Wanna really zen out? Sign up for one of the center’s workshops.

The Carl Cherry and Monterey Bay Zen Center, Perched a Few Blocks Above Carmel-by-the-Sea, at Guadalupe & 4th

The Center's Peacefully Zen Sculpture Garden

Related Articles:

Soulful-by-the-Sea

Unmissable Event: The 17th Annual Carmel Art Festival

Check Out Carmel’s Top 5 Eastern Eateries

1. Flying Fish Grill

Carmel Plaza
Mission & 7th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921
(831) 625-1962
Reviews

Carmel Plaza’s rustically intimate Flying Fish Grill is a local favorite, and a terrific value. The reasonably priced and generously portioned meals are created with love by the head chef, and owner, Kenny Fukumoto, and the knowledgeable and attentive servers guarantee an exceptionally memorable experience. The Flying Fish is popular year-round, so remember to call ahead for a reservation.

The Flying Fish Grill

2. Tommy’s Wok

Mission, between Ocean & 7th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-8518
Reviews

The delicious smells wafting from Tommy’s Wok hit you from half a block away, making its alleyway location on San Carlos a little easier to find. Many diners opt for take-out, but if you want to unwind, aren’t bothered by the small-ish dining room, and manage to score a window seat, you’ll enjoy an outstanding fountain courtyard view.

Tommy's Wok, Mission Street, Carmel-by-the-Sea

The View from Tommy's Wok

3. Sushi Heaven

Dolores & 8th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 625-2067
Reviews

Ask any in-the-know local to name Carmel’s best sushi restaurant, and they’ll direct you to Sushi Heaven. The lively, friendly owners, fresh Korean food, and reasonable lunch and appetizer options are only a few rockin’ reasons to visit. Check out these rave visitor reviews for even more.

Sushi Heaven, on Dolores

Sushi Heaven's Affordable Apps and Lunch Specials

Local and Critical Sushi-Heaven-Love

4. Hanagasa Japanese Restaurant

On 8th, between Mission & San Carlos
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 625-4470
Reviews

We had trouble finding this extra-hidden gem, and according to their Yelp Reviews, we’re not the only ones. Carmel outlaws neon signs, but they should really make an exception for Hanagasa, which is nearly invisible from the street. Once you’re in, though, the authentic japanese food is top notch.

We've Got Hanagasa in Our Crosshairs: Study and Search!

Hidden Hanagasa

Hanagasa's Japanese-Style Sushi -- Worth the Search, Photo Courtesy of Yelp.com

5. Robata Grill and Sake Bar

3658 The Barnyard
Carmel, CA 93923
(831) 624-2643
Reviews

Locals rave about Robata’s sushi and drink specials, late hours, and Asian infused atmosphere, but we want to know if this hot spot is the real deal, as in –authentically Japanese. My willing and eager formerly Japan-dwelling friend puts Robata’s to the test and amiably grills our bartender, Toshi, in Japanese. We’re all charmed and delighted when Toshi, who moved to California from Sapporro, Japan eight years ago, totally schools her. He also shares Robata’s best dishes, like their deep-fried avocado, the generously portioned Kaissenn Maki, and The Crunchy Carmel — an outstanding salmon, cream cheese, and crunchy tempura shrimp sushi platter, created by Robata’s experienced, and also Japanese, sous chef.

Needless to say, Robata Grill and Sake Bar passed with flying colors.

Robata Grill and Sake Bar, in the Carmel Barnyard Shopping Center

Robata's Toasty Patio

Specials!

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3. Explore Carmel’s Authentically Oriental Arts and Antiques Scene

Lu Lu’s Silk Art Gallery

Mission, between 5th & 6th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 620-1122
Website

Traditional silk art, which requires meticulous training and patience, is increasingly rare, and we’re so thankful to LuLu’s Silk Art Gallery for spreading its beautiful history. The gallery’s pieces are woven with hand-split threads, using 40 different kinds of stitches, a process that the sweet representative enthusiastically shares with visitors, and photos just don’t do the craft justice; check them out in person!

Silk Art at LuLu's Carmel Gallery, Photo Courtesy of www.lulusilkartgallery.com

Conway of Asia

Dolores, between Ocean & 7th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-3643
Website

The adjacently situated Conway of Asia and the China Art Center form Carmel’s very own itty-bitty Asia on Dolores. Antique fans will especially appreciate the broad range of authentic and history-steeped pieces. The China Art Center prohibits photos of paintings, but guests are allowed to snap photos of other artifacts. Just be sure to ask first, as a courtesy.

Conway of Asia, on Dolores

Conway's Persian Rugs

Beautifully Detailed Antique Room Divider

Hand-Carved Shaving Brushes

China Art Center

Dolores, between Ocean & 7th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-5868
Website

China Art Center, on Dolores

China Art Center Interior

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4. Browse Carmel’s Asian-Inspired Home and Garden Treasures

Aslan’s Garden (and Gallery)

Lincoln, between Ocean & 7th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-1160
Review
Website

Aslan’s Gallery Representative mused, “I’ve been working here thirty five years. It takes locals twenty years to find us, and it takes tourists two days.” To that I say, thank you, Mr. Internet! It’ll only take you about two minutes. Walk along Lincoln, from Ocean to 7th, dart between and past the interior galleries, and you’ll be treated to a lush outdoor garden shop, packed with oriental knickknacks, inspirational messages, and brightly ornamental yard decor. The carved wooden wind-chimes are a nice change from their classically clanging metal counterparts, and the birds back home may not know the difference, but you’ll love watching them flit to and fro from their new, technicolor houses. The interior galleries are stocked with functional home art, like organically shaped marble sinks and cinnamon pots.

An Intricate Wooden Wall Hanging in Aslan's Gallery

The Secret Garden

Dolores, between 5th & 6th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-4955
Website

The Secret Garden and Pilgrim’s Way Bookstores’ attention to Eastern spiritual practices, and vast selection of philosophical how-to books, make this a must-stop for Karmic believers looking to expand their horizons.

Bring Home a Bonsai(!) from the Secret Garden

Pilgrim’s Way Bookstore

Dolores, between 5th & 6th
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 624-4955
Website

The Pilgrim's Way Bookstore, on Dolores

Bonus Treasure Trove: The Mole Hole of Carmel

Mission & 7th
Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
(831) 626-1640
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Dig Dig Dig! The Mole Hole’s globe-spanning whimsical goods are your Carmel treasure hunt’s ideal finale.

The Mole Hole of Carmel

Looking into The Mole Hole

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Have you explored outside of the box? Tell us about your unexpected Carmel finds and favorites in the comments.

Carmel-by-the-Sea's Winfield Gallery, Between Dolores and 6th

A Cool History

Ask the owner, Chris Winfield, about his gallery’s cool dinner theater roots. He’ll even point out exactly where 1950’s era Carmel-ites danced late into the night.

The Winfield Gallery in 1957 -- a Dinner Theater!

The Timeless and Perpetually Entertaining Present Day Gallery

A Warm, Knowledgeable Host

Chris invites guests to explore at their leisure, and exudes a laid-back warmth that makes you feel right at home.

Can You Spot the Gallery's Awesome Owner, Chris Winfield?

Works that Can’t be Found Anywhere Else in Carmel

The Winfield Gallery’s eclectic world of carefully chosen works are hand-selected by Chris from over 100 established and mid-career artists. You won’t find this particular brand of classy quirk anywhere else in Carmel, or the world, for that matter.

Funky Armadillo

Some Super Expressive Feline Sculptures

View from the Rear

Photo-Op Friendly!

Don’t try this everywhere — many galleries prohibit photography. Luckily, Winfield encourages you to snap away, and don’t you think a few wacked-out shots with the gallery’s sculptures, like my rooster friend here, add a much needed sense of humor to your seaside vacation album? Share your favorite Carmel galleries in the comments, and send me your favorite wacky (and post-able) vacation photo.

Get Silly -- You're on Vacation

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Unmissable Event: The 17th Annual Carmel Art Festival, May 13-17, 2010

Like Cartoons? You’ll Love Todd White and Eyvind Earles’ Carmel Art Galleries

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A Scene from 2009's Carmel Art Festival

Tomorrow morning, the Peninsula’s artists fling open their studio doors and march proudly into the coastal sunshine to kick off the festival’s main event, a juried plein air painting competition.

Michael Sitsu, Winner of the 2009 Festival's People's Choice Award

Keen eyes, exceptional observatory skills and limitless patience result in outstanding on the spot works of art, which are auctioned off in Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Davendorf Park on Saturday, May 15th.

2009 Plein Air Artist Whereabouts

The artists’ vantage points are scattered across the Peninsula, from Marina down to Big Sur, so keep an eye out, and if you spot a work-in-progress that interests or inspires you, go ahead and share your appreciation, then spend a few minutes chatting about their artwork, the festival, and the region’s creative opportunities. Newfound and strengthened connections between enthusiasts, novices, and masters are the festival’s biggest draw.

2009's Sculpture in the Park Event, Featuring Steven Whyte

Thursday’s Sculpture in the Park event, in particular, demystifies an oft-intimidating medium — with a little help from the world-renowned, Carmel-based artist Steven Whyte.

Whyte's Completed Abe Lincoln Sculpture

The Carmel Art Festival website elaborates; “Whyte will move elements of his Dolores Street studio to a stage in Carmel’s, Devendorff Park for the duration of the festival which runs from Thursday, May 13th, through Sunday, May 16th. This year, Steven has invited Chartwell School students to participate in the event. Students are helping Whyte choose the subject, normally kept a secret that is revealed over the course of the weekend as Whyte brings the piece to life. The students will also contribute to the actual sculpting of the work, helping Whyte form and place the clay. The subject of this year’s sculpture will not be announced, Whyte explains that he hopes visitors will attend the festival and watch the figure take shape and recognize the personality.”

Carmel-by-the-Sea's Sunny Devendorf Park

Devendorf Park, in Full Festival Swing

Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Devendorf Park and the adjacent Mission Street are the Festival’s epicenter, hosting Sculpture in the park, live music, information tents, kids-make-art-day, plein air painting awards, and auctions.

Devendorf Park Map

On Sunday, plein air winners will “quick draw” paintings throughout Carmel. Later that day, on Mission Street, you can see the finished products, and place a bid if one really strikes your fancy.

The Art Festival's "Kid's Day", 2009

Check out the weekend’s full schedule, a bunch of fun photos from the 2009 Festival, and this great little piece by the San Francisco Examiner.

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Carmel Weekend Get-Away Plans for the Six Types of Mothers

1. The Traditionalist

Visit the Golden Bough Plaza During Your Carmel-by-the-Sea Walking Tour

Defined by her consistently kind, selfless, gentle mothering, complete with warm chocolate chip cookies and bedtime stories, this special lady loves catching up with loved ones over coffee, spending peaceful afternoons in the garden, and doting on her family and friends. This mother is most likely to insist that you “don’t make a fuss”, so you’ll have to discreetly make a fuss, and insist it’s no trouble at all. Treat her, and your dad, to a couple nights in a cozy European styled Inn, linger over coffee, take a walking tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea, laugh and reminisce over a dinner at the casually classy Forge in the Forest, and share stories around a Carmel Beach bonfire.

2. The Adventurer

Monterey Bay Kayakers, off of Cannery Row

This mother never missed a chance to open your eyes to the world’s limitless opportunities for adventure and exploration. She inspires you to look closer, think creatively, turn problems into opportunities, and overcome your fears. “We’re going on a roadtrip!” may be a familiar idiom of your childhood, and you loved every moment of it. Time to return the favor. She’ll appreciate an Inn with a pool, as well as your working knowledge of the area’s trolleys and other transportation options, because you’re going out! Take her kayaking, sailing, whale-watching, or horseback riding, and try out Carmel’s uniquely cultured restaurants, like Dametra’s and Sushi Heaven. Bonus points if you can work in a random surprise adventure, like a trip to the Laguna Seca Races.

Dametra's Mediterranean Cafe, on Ocean Avenue

3. The Naturalist

The Esalen Institute Community Garden, Big Sur

This laid-back, earthy mother respects and relates to the natural world and its intriguing array of creatures and habitats. She insisted that you put down the remote and get outside, orchestrated camping trips and Natural History Museum visits, and taught you to be an environmentally responsible, lifelong learner. This is your chance to prove that you were listening, and nourish her naturalistic spirit. Take her on a hike through The Point Lobos State Reserve or Big Sur, visit the Holy Grail of Marine Conservation — The Monterey Bay Aquarium, tour Pacific Grove’s Natural History Museum, explore the Asilomar Beach tide pools and bird-watching, and visit Pacific Grove’s butterfly sanctuary. If you’re feeling especially generous, you could even sign her up for a weekend of spiritual and artistic growth at Big Sur’s internationally acclaimed Esalen Institute, and whatever you choose, remember to respect the world (and by extension, your worldly mama) with sustainable dining choices, too. Passion Fish and Basil are ridiculously tasty, and eco-friendly.

Basil's Berry Wallet-Friendly $5 Cheesecake

4. The Artist

Gallery 21, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Never one to stifle your creativity, this mom always jumped at the opportunity to facilitate a new craft or hobby, visit an art exhibition, or cheer you on at an oboe/ballet/juggling performance. The words “think outside of the box” shaped your creative spirit — which means you’re more than prepared for this mother’s day, and you couldn’t hope for a more artistically rich destination than Carmel. Take a walking tour of the village’s 100-plus galleries, catch a show at the Pacific Repertory Theater, then visit The Monterey Museum of Art, the downtown Pacific Grove galleries, and mingle with local crafters at The Carmel Farmer’s Market. Pick an Inn with a kitchen, and use your creative cooking skills to whip some farmer’s market fare into an originally imagined masterpiece. Even if it’s less than stellar, you know she’ll appreciate your creativity.Remind her that you learned from the best.

A Monika Meunier Oil on Canvas, at Zantman Art Galleries on Carmel-by-the-Sea's Mission Street

* Visit next weekend! The Carmel Art Festival runs from May 13th-18th.

5. The Chic Sophisticate

Carmel Plaza

She works hard, appreciates quality, class, and high-standards, and always helps you achieve your full potential. Thanks to her, you have an appreciation for good wine, good company, and a well-deserved weekend away to recharge and prepare for life’s exciting challenges. Make your mom’s weekend especially memorable by treating her to a four diamond, centrally located Inn, a visit to a decadent Carmel day spa, Carmel Valley Wine tasting, and a Carmel Plaza Shopping excursion.

Maybe Next Year...

6. The History Buff

Historic Old Monterey's Larkin House, Along the Path of History

“When? Where? Why? How? And What does it all mean?” This mom possesses a contagious love of history, delights in discussing life’s meaning and mysteries, and can’t resist a good story. Thanks to her, you’re inquisitive, thoughtful, and probably a lot of fun at dinner parties. The History Buff mom will love learning about the area’s rich cultural history at The Carmel Mission, The Monterey History and Maritime Museum, The Pacific Grove Natural History Museum, The Monterey Bay Aquarium, and along Old Downtown Monterey’s Path of History. Don’t forget to check out Carmel’s abundant antique shops, which set the stage for priceless opportunities to bond over found treasures and the little details that only your mom would notice and appreciate.

Ocean Avenue Antiques

Outside of Monterey's Maritime and History Museum

Mix and match the ideas to reflect her tastes, then slip the upcoming weekend’s itinerary into her homemade card — pancake breakfast optional. Cleaning up after said breakfast? Mandatory. Remind your mama that you weren’t, in fact, “raised by wolves.”

My Sis and Mama on Asilomar Beach. Happy Mother's Day!

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Soulful-by-the-Sea