Holiday Greetings

Carmel is a magical place during the holidays. Ocean Avenue glows with holiday lights and shop windows have enchanting displays. Every year I take some time just to stroll the town and side streets to enjoy the special decorations that residents and shop owners have carefully put up to share the joy of the season. The pace is slow, the shops are unique and the restaurants are warm. Carmel-by -the-Sea is a special town to visit to enjoy any and all holidays and celebrations.

The weekend of December 2^nd kicks off the holiday spirit with the annual Holiday Tree Lighting and Holiday Open House with entertainment beginning at 3:30 pm and the official lighting happening around 5:45 pm. There will be music, refreshments and performances. Santa may even make an appearance! Check out all the details here! Directly following the tree lighting will be the Holiday Open House in the Carmel Plaza. Be sure to stop by to beat the Christmas shopping rush!

On Sunday, December 4^th, take a tour of some of Carmel’s Inns of Distinction. Even though we are not on the tour this year, we still welcome you to come by and visit. We are happy to give a private tour, no tickets needed. Click here to purchase tickets for the Inns of Distinction tour.

Even though we don’t enjoy snowfall here on the peninsula, Ice Skating By The Bay in downtown Monterey manages to make us feel like we are in our own Winter Wonderland.

Dance Kids of Monterey County will be putting on their 23^rd Annual Nutcracker show this year. It will be performed in the Sunset Center starting Friday, December 9^th. Purchase tickets to the show here!

The Pacific Repertory Theatre at the Golden Bough Theater in Carmel is putting on two great shows this winter season.  Sister Act is showing until December 18^th.  It will be followed by Winter Boogie Wonderland from December 29^th through January 8^th. Click here to purchase tickets!

First Night Monterey is an annual New Year’s Eve celebration that takes place in downtown Monterey, from 3:00 pm to midnight.  If you’re interested in ringing in 2017 with Monterey locals and visitors, find all of the details here.

The Annual Rio Grill Resolution Run starts at the Crossroads, winds though downtown Carmel and ends at Carmel Mission.  The run is a family event, including dogs. Choose either a 5K or 10K course to run, walk, or stroll.

If you can’t make it to town over the holidays, think about January and February, just to relax and rejuvenate. We have lots of special packages available, simply call and ask. We also offer Gift Certificates that are perfect for any type of gift giving.

We hope to see you this Holiday season!

Tours By The Sea

While visiting Carmel, one should absolutely explore and attempt to visit all of the hidden pathways and charming courtyards. Of course it is endless fun to wander through town and find great shops on your own; however, taking a tour will ensure that you encounter many of Carmel's hidden gems that one might have missed. Whether the tour is self-guided or in a group, you will be sure to find all of the must see spots of Carmel By The Sea.

There are tours offered for the food and wine connoisseur as well as tours for visitors who enjoy learning about the history and culture of a town. Carmel is celebrating its centennial this year and the celebration makes learning about the rich history of the village even more interesting.          

  

Brief descriptions of some great self guided tours follow:     

                                                             

Wine Walk By The Sea

What's better than a darling village full of wine tasting rooms? Carmel Wine Walk by-the-Sea is a self-guided stroll along Ocean Avenue and the surrounding blocks. One may purchase a wine passport from our front desk staff that entitles the buyer to one $10 flight at 9 different wine tasting rooms of your choosing. These passports can be used in one day, or enjoyed over a long weekend or even a few months.

Carmel's Historic Walking Tour

This self-guided tour suggests various interesting and notable historic homes and buildings to see. We are able to provide maps for this enlightening stroll upon request.

If you prefer to be guided along by a knowledgeable local, consider any of these guided tours:

Carmel Food Tour

Love food but don't know where to begin? The guided Gourmet Food Tour visits seven food tasting locations within the quaint village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. These locally-owned tasting stops are only the tip of the iceberg, as Carmel is truly a perfect town for foodies.

Carmel Walks

Enjoy a leisurely 2-hour guided walk through Carmel’s secret pathways, hidden courtyards, award-winning gardens, and by enchanting storybook cottages. This company also offers guided tours within Point Lobos. Point Lobos is one of the gems of the State Park System with gorgeous views of land and sea.

Carmel Art Tours

Perhaps a day enjoying art is more your style; if so, consider a 90 minute guided walking tour of local galleries.

Ag Venture Tours & Consulting

Take a wine tasting tour in Carmel Valley!

Big Sur Tours and More

                                                                                                                                                                    Big Sur is a beautiful area not to be missed! Join Dave, a local guide, on a customized tour of Big Sur. Dave also offers tours of beautiful 17 Mile Drive and transportation to Hearst Castle. 

Summer - Thinking Outside the Beach

Summer has arrived in Carmel-By-The-Sea! Carmel is a great escape from the sweltering heat many experience in other parts of the state.  Whether  you are traveling as a couple, in a group of friends or as a family, June and July offer a variety of events to attend in addition to all of the wonderful outdoor activities and food in the area.

The Carmel Bach Festival is in its 79th season of offering brilliant performances by world class musicians who gather from around the country. Opening night will be Saturday, July 16th, with a performance of Bach and Handel by the Sea in celebration of Carmel's centennial.  There will be concerts held daily through Saturday, July 30th. Venues include Sunset Center, Church in the Forest, Carmel Mission Basilica and other locations in Carmel. Visit the website for the schedule and tickets. Many concerts sell out early.

If you will be in Carmel for Father's Day, Run in the Name of Love is both a 5K run and a 2K walk through Carmel. This year dogs will be welcome in the 2K walk. This is a nice family event open to the public and you can register up to and including race day.

The Carmel House and Garden Tour, hosted by the Carmel Heritage Society, on Saturday, June 25th, will have some special houses included this year. These homes are all within Carmel-by-the-Sea and it is a great walk around the town and an opportunity to see inside some of the unique homes of Carmel. Included this year will be: The first house built in Carmel "The Dunes", The First Brick House built in Carmel in 1898, The Charles Sumner Greene Studio, the Frank Lloyd Wright House, and a Comstock house. You can see the complete list at www.carmelheritage.org. They also have a great exhibit called "Then and Now".

The unique outdoor Forest Theater, founded in 1910, is one of the oldest outdoor theaters west of the Rockies. The theater was closed last summer to update it and bring it up to code. It has just reopened and offers a fun lineup for the summer. The featured play this summer is The Borrowers and will run from June 23 through July 17. There will also be a number of films shown on the large outdoor screen during June  and July. Take a picnic, a bottle of wine, and sit under the pines for a relaxing evening. As always in Carmel, dogs are welcome. For the schedule and times go to www.foresttheaterguild.org

The Carmel Valley Art & Wine Celebration takes place on June 18th. It is held throughout Carmel Valley Village where you can sip on award-winning Carmel Valley wines while viewing the work of over 50 artists in the Village streets. Carmel Valley is just 12 miles from downtown Carmel.

So no matter the reason one chooses to visit Carmel in summer, we are sure you will find something unexpected to enjoy. We hope to see you in the coming months!

Fall has Arrived with an Abundance of Activities and Events to Enjoy

There really is something for everyone this time of year. Some days it is hard to choose between a hike, whale watching or attending a special event. 

Cultural events in the fall include Monterey Jazz Festival - www.montereyjazzfestival.org; Carmel International Film Festival - www.carmelfilmfest.com; and Pebble Beach Authors and Ideas Festival - www.pbaif.com.

For golfers, The First Tee Open Golf Tournament - www.thefirstteeopen.com and the TaylorMade Pebble Beach Invitational are both great tournaments open to spectators free of charge.  The First Tee pairs Pros and Junior players.  The TaylorMade is one of the only tournaments that has both PGA and LPGA players. 

The Taste of Carmel is a special evening for Foodies, or for anyone who can’t decide which restaurant to go to.   Held in the courtyard of the Carmel Mission; it gives you the chance to sample cuisine and sip wines from many of the top restaurants and winemakers in the area.  It also gives you the opportunity to dance to some great music.  The Taste is on Thursday October 1, and during the rest of the weekend there are food tours and other events planned.  www.tasteofcarmel.com.

Carmel's Birthday Celebration is on Halloween with a home town parade featuring both people and dogs in great costumes.  Anyone is welcome to join the Parade, or watch it, on Ocean Avenue.  Another local event is the 55th Annual Sandcastle Contest on October 4th, anyone can join in.

Fall is also a great time to gear up for the Big Sur Half Marathon held on November 8 in Monterey. www.bigsurhalfmarathon.org.

For those who would like to just sit back and be entertained be sure to visit www.sunsetcenter.org.  There is a wonderful variety of entertainers lined up for the 2015-2016 season. 

And last but certainly not least - DON'T FORGET THE WHALES!  They are putting on quite a show this year.

Carmel Heritage Society House and Garden Tour

Carmel has a rich history of attracting a vast array of artistic individuals.  Many artists, writers and architects have all used Carmel's special beauty and character for inspiration.

As a long-time resident of Carmel, and an avid walker, I love to wander the streets and enjoy the unique  gardens and architecture.   This weekend is one of my favorite events.  The public will actually have the opportunity to enter some of the gardens and houses that we usually can only walk past.

The Carmel Heritage Society House and Garden tour is Saturday, June 20. Every year there is a wonderful variety of homes open to the public, this year is no exception.   Open on Saturday are homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, Julia Moran and M. J. Murphy.   There are also two

houses I am very excited to see, the Ship and the Golf House.  I used to babysit in the house beside the Ship and I can't wait to see the inside.

For more information on this annual event go to www.carmelheritage.org.

If you can't make the tour this weekend, think about coming in early December for the Inns of Distinction Tour.  This is another great event hosted by the Heritage Society.  This event includes food, wine and a look into a number of Carmel Inns.   This event gives you a great chance to pick out the perfect Inn for your stay the next time you visit Carmel, if Tradewinds is full.

Summer !

Although Spring is my favorite season, Summer is a very close second. 

I have always considered Memorial Day the kick off for Summer activities and it has arrived.  I am ready to go outside and enjoy the plethora of activities that are easily available throughout the Monterey Peninsula. I do have to admit that our climate usually allows most of these activities throughout the year. However, there is just something special and carefree about Summer.

Because tickets are going fast, today I want to mention the very special Carmel Bach Festival (www.bachfestival.org). The Festival takes place over two weeks in July. This is the 78th Season. Paul Goodwin, is in his 5th year as the Artistic Director and Principal Conductor. The world class musicians and Choral members, most of whom return year after year, come from throughout the country. The theme this year is "Bach, Bohemia and Beyond." The program is wonderful; I had a very difficult time deciding which concerts I could go see. I certainly won't miss the Brandenburg Concerti, the Royal Fireworks Music, or The Magic Flute. The main venue for the concerts is Sunset Center in downtown Carmel (www.sunsetcenter.org). However, there are many other locations hosting concerts and lectures including: the Carmel Mission Basilica, All Saints Church, and the Church in the Forest. The Bach Festival website is full of excellent information about the performances, participants, and the area. For me, a perfect Summer day might be a hike, dinner, and a concert.

Following is a list of some of my other favorite Summer pass times. During the next few weeks I will  provide more specific information on some of these adventures:

• Picnics--Where to pick one up and where to enjoy it
• Hiking--Both coastal and inland
• The Carmel  Heritage House Tour
• Bicycle Rides
• Kayaking
• Monterey Bay Aquarium
• Dining Outside
• Building a sandcastle, flying a kite or maybe even surf lessons
• Wine tasting on a long sunlit evening
• Taking a short drive up Carmel Valley or down to Big Sur

Relais & Chateau GourmetFest

The second ever Relais & Chateâu GourmetFest builds on absurd luxury, celebrity and execution of year one, which enjoyed a couple of dozen chefs carrying as many Michelin stars as they did ice chests of crazy-good caviar.

 It enjoys all the ingredients and intrigue of PBFW, just simmered down to an even richer, more exclusive and intimate affair.

 Bring on Gary Danko, Michel Bras, Black River Caviar-Dom Pérignon lunches and Rarities Dinner where $5,000 isn't enough to get you a seat. (You'll need a few bucks more and some nice connections.)

 The best way to enjoy GourmetFest and its range of demos (like the Grand Chef Women's four-hour demo lunch), tastings (note the Journey through Barbaresco with Gaia Gaja) and once-in-two-lifetimes dinners (The Relais & Chateaux Grand Chef Dinner) is to stay in Carmel at, say, one of two family owned lodges, and the most beautifully blended between modernity and old-school luxury (yes, Tradewinds.)

 In fact, it's perfect, because Tradewinds is a lot like a smart connoisseur's Relais & Chateaux, minus the incredible restaurant. Instead you save your money for events like the Seafood Grill with its hard-to-forget wineries (by the score) and internationally renown chefs (by the dozen) and are closer to most of the events than any other comparable hotels.

It's enough to make for one of the most sumptuous weekends in the world.

Here's the schedule at a glance. Find more at the mouthwatering GourmetFest website:

THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2015

WELCOME PARTY with Justin Cogley, Michel Bras, Olivier Roellinger,

Gary Danko, Annie Féolde, Tetsuya, Diego Muñoz & Lanshu Chen

Seventh & Dolores | 6-9 pm | 600 people

FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2015

GALANTE VINEYARDS TOUR & LUNCH

Carmel Valley | 9:30 am - 2 pm | 80 people

PAUL DRAPER & THE MAGIC OF RIDGE MONTE BELLO

La Playa Carmel - Pacific Room | 10:30 am - 12 pm | 50 people

GRAND WOMEN CHEFS & WINEMAKERS

LUNCH & COOKING DEMO with Annie Féolde and Lanshu Chen

Seventh & Dolores | 11 am| 160 people

THE TERROIR OF COMTE GEORGES DE VOGÜÉ MUSIGNY

with Jean-Luc Pepin

La Playa Carmel - Pacific Room | 3:30 - 5 pm | 50 people

RARITIES DINNER

with Michel Bras, Olivier Roellinger, Tetsuya, Justin Cogley, Richard

Geoffroy from Dom Pérignon, Paul Draper from Ridge Vineyards,

Jean-Luc Pepin from Domaine Comte Georges de Vogüé

& Black River Caviar

Aubergine at L'Auberge Carmel | 6:30 pm | 28 people

CUISINE AND WINES OF THE WORLD DINNER

with Gary Danko, Colin Bedford and Diego Muñoz

Seventh & Dolores | 6:30 pm | 160 people

SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 2015

WILD MUSHROOM HUNT & LUNCH with Ranger Chuck Bancroft

Santa Lucia Preserve | 9:30 am - 2 pm | 80 people

A JOURNEY THROUGH BARBARESCO WITH GAIA GAJA

La Playa Carmel - Pacific Room | 10:30 am - 12 pm | 50 people

DOM PÉRIGNON & BLACK RIVER CAVIAR LUNCH with Winemaker

Richard Geoffroy and Black River Caviar's Graham Gaspard

featuring Chefs Justin Cogley, Tetsuya, Gary Danko & Ron Mendoza

Aubergine at L'Auberge Carmel | Noon | 28 people

A TASTE OF FRANCE LUNCH & COOKING DEMO

with Olivier Roellinger and Michel Bras

Seventh & Dolores | 11 am | 160 people

THE STAR OF THE MOSEL with Ernst Loosen

La Playa Carmel - Pacific Room | 3:30 - 5 pm | 50 people

RELAIS & CHATEAUX GRAND CHEF DINNER

with Justin Cogley, Annie Féolde, Colin Bedford,

Diego Muñoz & Lanshu Chen

Seventh & Dolores | 6:30 pm | 160 people

SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2015

THE PLENITUDE OF DOM PÉRIGNON

with Chef de Cave Richard Geoffroy featuring Rare Vintages

La Playa Carmel - Pacific Room | 10:30 am - 12 pm | 50 people

SEAFOOD GRILL

Seventh & Dolores | 12 - 3 pm | 600 people

 

AT&T Pro-Am Golf Tournament 2015

Can anyone believe we're already in the second week of January? How many people are still sticking with their New Year's Resolutions? I broke my No More Starbucks resolution already, as I pulled up at the drive through to order a Grande Blonde Roast and a breakfast sandwich! FAIL! While the beginning of the year is typically the most opportune time for some people to begin new habits - there are 11 other months in the year to try something new! And as January comes and goes, we always have February to look forward to. For us here in the Carmel / Pebble Beach Area, February is synonymous with the AT&T Pro-Am Golf Tournament, an event featuring professional PGA stars, a field of amateurs, and even a group of celebrity players, some of whom make appearances every year!

The event is played at three courses in Pebble Beach - the Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course and Monterey Peninsula Country Club Shore Course, and is typically attended by about 150,000 spectators! Past winners of the event include legendary golfers like Jack Nicklaus (three-time winner), Tom Watson (two-time winner), Mark O'Meara (five-time winner), Payne Stewart, Tiger Woods, Vijay Singh, Davis Love III (two-time winner), Phil Mickelson (four-time winner),and Dustin Johnson (two-time winner). An event featuring some of the world's best players on some of the world's most extraordinary golf courses? I couldn't come up with a reason NOT to attend!

Last year's Winner, Jimmy Walker

For those who aren't quite as enthused by golf, you can always find entertainment in the form of the celebrity rounds. This year, some of the celebrity players in attendance include sports stars like SF Giants' Pitcher Matt Cain and Catcher Buster Posey, Actors Josh Duhamel, Ray Romano and a beloved favorite of the event - Bill Murray. To see a list of all the players, visit the AT&T Pro-Am Website.  

Actor Josh Duhamel at Last Year's Event

What makes this year's AT&T event extra special is that it happens to fall on the 3-day Presidents Day Weekend, the Saturday of which is Valentine's Day! For most of you, it means you can stick around for the Final Round on Sunday and not have to worry about getting yourself home in time for work the next day! Why not make Valentine's Day special for the golf lover in your life, and plan a trip to the area for a relaxing weekend here with us at Tradewinds? A shuttle is available to pick you up and bring you back, and we are offering special packages for those who want to come a little earlier for the practice rounds during the week.

The Golf, Romance and 3-Day Weekend Package includes a relaxing 4 night stay in a luxurious King or Queen/Queen Room, a box of gourmet chocolates, a split 90-minute massage and (2) week-long shuttle passes for the tournament (tournament tickets not included). Rates for this package start at $1600.

We are also offering a package so you can Watch the AT&T Pro-Am without the Crowds. This package includes a one night stay in a luxurious King or Queen/Queen Room (Sunday through Wednesday), and two 1-day tickets to the tournament practice rounds, held on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Rates for this package begin at $319.

If you are interested in coming for this event, we highly encourage you to call us as soon as possible (831) 624-2776.

Until Next Time...

The Staff at Tradewinds

Mondays on Mission Street: L'Escargot

It's hard to believe we are in the final few days of 2014! We hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season, whether you were celebrating Hanukkah, or Christmas or any other special occasion. We've been exceptionally busy there at Tradewinds, as Carmel has been bustling with visitors for the holidays. As mentioned in our Holiday Dining post, we strongly encourage you to make reservations for New Years Eve and New Years Day if you are planning on eating out. Today, we are happy to present one of our Mission Street neighbors, L'Escargot, as this week's "Mondays on Mission Street" featured business.

L'Escargot

Mission Street at 4th Avenue

(831) 620.1942

Hours:
Open Daily for Dinner at 5:30 PM

A picturesque, quintessential Carmel Cottage nestled in a small courtyard on Mission and 4th is where L'Escargot calls home. A traditional French country-style bistro, L'Escargot consistently serves some of the best food in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea.

The restaurant offers an a la carte menu with traditional appetizer, salad and entree selections, as well as their "Bistro Menu," a fixed price menu offering a 3-Course Meal for $36/person. As a connoisseur of French cuisine, I love to try the same dishes at different restaurants to get a feel for the restaurant's style and creativity. I'm always "trying a bit of everything," which is why I end up with three appetizers, an entree and a dessert every time I go out to eat!

The appetizers are outstanding, from the French Onion Soup, to the classic Escargot (which lives up to the restaurant's namesake), to the Veal Sweetbreads, cooked with mushrooms in a Madeira cream sauce.

Entrees are equally as delicious - not exactly the healthiest cuisine, but definitely tasty. Seafood options include a local Petrale Sole with a lemon caper beurre blanc and Monterey Sand Dabs with house made tartar sauce. For fans of poultry, the restaurant offers a Pan Roasted Duck Breast, Roasted Chicken with mashed potatoes, and Chicken in a black truffle cream sauce. Rack of Lamb, Medallions of Veal and Rabbit Fricassee round out the protein options.  They also offer their house made version of Cassoulet, a traditional French bean stew with sausage and poultry.

The Bistro Menu features salad and other light appetizer options, a selection of entrees as well as your choice of dessert.

Round out your meal with a bottle of wine (we hear they sometimes offer half-priced wine on wednesdays) and have a relaxing meal, with great service and a charming ambiance.

As always, if you are planning a trip to the Carmel area, give us a call here at Tradewinds, we would be happy to help you organize a memorable stay in town.

Until Next Time...

The Staff at Tradewinds

Mondays on Mission Street: The Carmel Plaza

In the spirit of the Holiday Season, today's "Mondays on Mission Street" column is all about SHOPPING! Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea is home to myriad clothing boutiques and specialty shops, and The Carmel Plaza, specifically, is the epicenter and home to some of the area's best shopping in terms of variety and quality.

The Carmel Plaza

Ocean Avenue & Mission Street

831.624.1385

The Carmel Plaza is an outdoor shopping center, with beautiful floral accents, a cozy, cottage-like exterior, and both upscale and casual shopping options. The Plaza is home to contemporary stores such as J Crew, Anthropologie, Kate Spade, Cole Haan, as well as luxury stores like Tiffany and Co., and Bottega Veneta. Many stores you would find in a metropolitan area have found their way into this charming shopping complex in the heart of downtown. 

In addition to the plethora of apparel options, The Carmel Plaza is also home to specialty beauty retailers Cos Bar and L'Occitane. Both of these offer luxurious cosmetic and bath amenities, and cater towards a more pampered clientele. 

Boutique linen and home furnishing stores, as well as the popular cookware store, Sur La Table, round out the retail experience.

Take a break from a day of shopping and enjoy a coffee at Carmel Coffee and Cocoa or a bite to eat at Flying Fish Grill, Bistro Beaujoulais, or 400 Degrees Burgers.

Other activities include wine tasting at Wrath Winery and cheese sampling at the world renowned gourmet Cheese Shop.

Carmel Plaza has something for everyone and should be on every visitor's itinerary!

Our Holiday Dining Guide

Season's Greetings, Everyone!

We are making our final push toward the end of the year and are currently working on some new packages and specials for all of you to enjoy here at Tradewinds. We are really optimistic about what 2015 has in store for us!

While many of you will be celebrating the holidays with friends and family, cooking and entertaining during this most festive time of the year, others will be traveling or simply looking to dine out. We want to take as much of the headache and stress out of the equation as possible. With that said, we have compiled a list of the restaurants that will be open over the holidays and hope you will find this information useful as you plan your visit to the area.

Christmas Eve, December 24th
- Anton and Michel
- Christopher's  (5 - 9 p)
- Pacific's Edge
- Aubergine 
- Grasing's 
- Il Fornaio 
- Flaherty's (open until 7:30 p)
- La Bicyclette (lunch hours only)
- PortaBella (11:30 a - 9:30 p)
- Merlot!
- Grill on Ocean Ave
- Forge in the Forest
- Andre's Bouchee (open until 5 p)

Christmas Day, December 25th
- Anton and Michel (3 p - 9 p)
- Christopher's on Lincoln (5 - 9 p)
- Pacific's Edge (prix fixe, $110/person)
- Aubergine (9 pm seating available only)
- Grasing's (2:30 p - 8:30 p)
- Il Fornaio 
- Flaherty's (open until 7:30 p)
- PortaBella (2 p - 10:00 p)
- Merlot! (special menu available)
- Grill on Ocean Ave
- Andre's Bouchee (open for dinner)

New Years Eve, December 31st
- Anton and Michel
- Basil (special menu)
- Christopher's on Lincoln (5 - 9 p)
- Pacific's Edge (5:30 - 9:30 p)
- Aubergine 
- Grasing's
- Il Fornaio 
- Flaherty's 
- La Bicyclette 
- Casanova
- PortaBella (11:30 a - 12 a)
- Merlot!
- Grill on Ocean Ave
- Forge in the Forest
- Mundaka
- Flying Fish Grill
- Andre's Bouchee
- L'escargot (5 p - 9 p)

New Years Day, January 1st

- Anton and Michel

- Basil (special menu)

- Christopher's (5 - 9 p)

- Pacific's Edge (5:30 - 8:30 p)

- Aubergine 

- Grasing's

- Il Fornaio 

- Flaherty's 

- La Bicyclette 

- Casanova

- PortaBella 

- Merlot!

- Grill on Ocean Ave

- Forge in the Forest

- Flying Fish Grill

- Andre's Bouchee

We love tradition here at Tradewinds - in fact, the hotel itself is a family tradition - owned and operated by the same family that built it in the 1950's. What are your family traditions? Perhaps you should consider making Carmel a part of your holiday plans!

Until Next Time...

The Staff at Tradewinds Carmel

A Winter Storm Update

After a day of gusty winds and heavy rainfall, we welcome the light drizzle we are experiencing today. The rain should pass by the end of the day and give way to some sunshine just in time for the weekend!

Thankfully, the storm did not do as much damage as we had anticipated; however, it did bring down some trees and branches around the Monterey Peninsula. A stretch of Highway 1 from San Luis Obispo to the Coast Gallery in Big Sur remains closed as of today and a small stream flood advisory was issued. Be sure to check the news for updates and road closures if you are headed to the area!

This photo was taken in Pacific Grove yesterday when the rain subsided for a moment and allowed for a beautiful rainbow to be cast over Lovers Point Beach.



This Weekend in Carmel: 12/12 - 12/14

The winter keeps humming along as we get even closer to the end of the year festivities, including both Christmas and New Year's Eve. This weekend's events reflect the height of the Holiday Season, and we hope some of you will be able to join us in celebration!

Hand Crafted at the Barnyard
Barnyard Shopping Village
Friday 5:00 - 9:00 pm
Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sunday 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
The opening evening party of this pop-up store at the Barnyard will offer food and libations. Throughout the weekend Hand Crafted will offer handmade items from local artists.

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The Talbott Vineyards Holiday Affair
Talbott Vineyards Carmel Valley Tasting Room
Saturday 12:00 - 4:00 pm
Mary Chamberlin of "The Traveling Soup Pot" will be sampling White Turkey Chili and Tortellini. The event will also feature live music, jewelry and samples from Gil's Gourmet.

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The Nutcracker at Sunset Center
Friday and Saturday 7:00 pm
Sunday 2:00 pm
Dance Kids of Monterey presents the 21st year of its Nutcracker production. Accomplished professional dancers lead a cast of 120 locally trained pre-professional ballet dancers in the holiday classic. Tickets can be purchased through the Sunset Center website.

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Santa's Fly-In at Carmel Valley Airfield
Saturday 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
For the 56th year, Santa and Mrs. Claus will travel by helicopter through the sky and touch down at the Carmel Valley Airfield to meet everyone. Once on the ground, they will hop in their sleigh and parade through the village to the Community Center on Ford Road, which will be followed by a holiday bazaar at the Carmel Valley Youth Center.

Mondays on Mission Street: Casanova

Food has always been a huge part of my life. Every family gathering, celebration or special occasion somehow revolved around food. Perhaps it was because my dad was a chef, or because my mom managed restaurants, that somehow, so many of my memories are sparked by names of restaurants and favorite dishes. I am ecstatic to be able to present to you the first restaurant I think of when I am planning a special occasion, and this week's "Mondays on Mission Street" feature, Casanova Restaurant.

Casanova

Mission Street & 5th Avenue

831.625.0501

Hours:

Lunch -

Dinner -

Casanova is a Carmel Institution. A bold statement, maybe, but well-deserved. For years, I have attended everything from engagement parties, to birthdays, to anniversaries and graduation parties, and Casanova has proven time and time again to be more than capable of hosting the most joyous of occasions. With its cozy, romantic ambiance, its great service, impeccable French country-style décor, and amazing rustic French-Italian cuisine, Casanova really embodies traditional European dining.

Begin your meal with the spinach gnocchi, a light, doughy pillow of potato pasta served "au gratin" style. The parmesan cream sauce is ever so delicately salty, and creamy, and if you're anything like me, you will want to take a loaf of bread and soak it in this deliciousness.

The lunch menu features items such as the classic Croque Monsieur, Beef Ravioli, Shrimp Scampi, and a personal favorite of mine  - Steak Frites.

The dinner menu features heartier fare - classic pasta and meat dishes with both French and Italian roots. The Seafood Linguini is a personal favorite and features lobster, clams, mussels, prawns and a white wine & Meyer lemon cream sauce. The Wild Mushroom Pappardelle and Wild Mushroom Risotto are both great options for vegetarians and equally as delectable as their omnivorous offerings.

For those with a bigger appetite, I highly recommend the Braised Beef Short Rib with new potato and mushroom accoutrement. They offer additional carnivorous entrees such as Lamb, Duck, Salmon and Pork - classic dishes created to evoke the most memorable European-style dining experience.

I must note that their wine list is impeccable as well, but I suppose it doesn't hurt that the owners also call "Georis Winery" their own! Casanova is the definition of romance and charm and a definite must for all of those looking to have the quintessential Carmel experience.

If you are looking to celebrate something special, let us here at Tradewinds know, and we will help you plan the ultimate getaway!

This Weekend in Carmel: 12/5 - 12/7

We have many events in store these upcoming weeks for those of you who are taking advantage of visiting Carmel before the new year arrives - and the rain should subside just in time for this weekend!

Friday, December 5th

Sunset Center Holiday Party, 3:00 - 5:00 pm
Enjoy complimentary wine, cookies and coffee in the Theater Lobby before heading to Devendorf Park for the Tree Lighting Ceremony. A photographer will be on hand to take photos in front of the Sunset Christmas Tree.

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Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Devendorf Park, 4:30 pm
Festivities begin at 4:30 pm with special performances by Junipero Serra School Children and the Carmel Middle School Choir, as well as a recitation of "Twas the Night Before Christmas." Mayor Jason Burnett will light the tree around 5:45 pm.

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Carmel Plaza Holiday Open House, 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Carmel Plaza is hosting a Holiday Open House following the Tree Lighting Ceremony. There will be live music, appearances from Santa and his elves, as well as free warm beverages from Carmel Coffee & Cocoa and small bites from the restaurants at Carmel Plaza.

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Saturday, December 6th

- The Carmel Foundation Holiday Bazaar at Diment Hall, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Shop a variety of crafts, gift baskets, jewelry and breads all handmade by talented local artists. The Carmel Foundation's cause nourishes the enrichment and productivity of active lives.

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- Wine and Wreaths at Joullian Vineyard, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm, $45 per person
Join Joullian Vineyard for their open house and food drive, where you can sample the latest vintage wines and enjoy a BBQ lunch. Juniper, holly, mistletoe and grapevines will be available for wreath-making and a contest will be held and prizes given for the best wreaths!

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Mondays on Mission Street: Andre's Bouchee

Can you believe it's already Monday? After a Thanksgiving weekend full of friends, family and food, it's about time we all get back to work! For this week's "Mondays on Mission Street," we are featuring a favorite restaurant of ours here at Tradewinds, Andre's Bouchee. Located on Mission Street just two doors south of Ocean Avenue, Andre's Bouchee is an authentic French bistro serving classic French dishes with a "Californian Coastal flair."

Andre's Bouchee

Mission Street between Ocean & 7th

831.626.7880

Hours:

Lunch: Wednesday through Sunday 11:30 am until 2:00 pm

Dinner: Daily from 5:30 pm until 9:30 pm

Nestled in the heart of downtown Carmel, Andre's Bouchee is a cozy, charming restaurant serving delectable classic French cuisine in an intimate setting. The restaurant is the perfect spot to stop for a lunch break during a day of shopping in town, or for a lovely, romantic dinner in the evening. 

And now, I present a break-down of the menu (accompanied by a little lesson in the French language).

As part of my own neurosis, I almost ALWAYS always order wine before I even look at the menu, depending on whether I want red or white. And then I choose an entree accordingly. A word to the wise - DO NOT DO THIS HERE! Let their in-house sommelier do the work for you and peruse the menu before picking out a wine. They have an extensive wine menu and will recommend the perfect wine pairing based on your entree selection and taste preferences. Here are some of my favorites, from start to finish. 

French Onion Soup (Soupe a L'Oignon) is typically my go-to, however, the Cream of Mushroom (Creme de Champignons) is in a league of its own. If I know I'm going to be ordering an extra rich entree, I'll typically order a salad, perhaps the Mixed Baby Greens with Duck Confit (Salade de Confit de Canard). Or you can always share an appetizer... the escargot or mussels are perfect for that! Whatever the case, don't overdo it here, because you'll definitely need to save room for your entree and dessert!

You really can't go wrong with any of their meat or seafood entree selections. When I am eating out, I always try to go for the option that is most unlike anything I can make for myself at home. The Duck Legs Confit (Confit de Canard) and Braised Lamb Shank (Jarret d'Agneau au Sirop d'Erable et Citron Vert) both have that je ne sai quoi I look for when I'm dining out. Their seafood options are equally impressive, and include a Lobster Saffron Broth Risotto (Rissoto aux Fruits de Mer) and Grilled Striped Bass (Striped Bass Grille au Citron Vert). 

For dessert, you should definitely opt for the Vanilla and Rum Creme Brûlée or the Melting Chocolate Cake (Coulant Aux Chocolat et Carambar), or finish your meal with a lovely selection of cheeses. 

Do not miss out on some of the best food and service in the area - just be sure to let them know Tradewinds sent you! 

Carmel Belle

Every so often, I find myself falling into the monotonous routine of oatmeal for breakfast and a turkey sandwich for lunch. As healthy as that is, it can be quite boring. And that's where Carmel Belle comes into the equation. With a large selection of organic, artisanal breakfast, lunch and recently added dinner options, I am able to break that monotony and still eat high quality, healthy food.

Carmel Belle

Doud Craft Studios (San Carlos between Ocean & 7th)

831.624.1600

 

Hours:

Breakfast: Monday - Friday 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, Saturday & Sunday 8:00 am to 1:00 pm

Lunch: Sunday - Thursday 11:00 am until 4:00 pm, Friday & Saturday until 5:00 pm

Dinner: Wednesday - Sunday 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm

 

Breakfast at Carmel Belle is a poached egg lover's dream. They serve local, organic eggs from Glaum Ranche, with toast and a variety of accoutrements. My personal favorite is the mushroom melt with two poached eggs, and an ever so light touch of white truffle oil. Truffles, asparagus and mushrooms play a major role on the breakfast menu, but take a backseat when it comes to the open faced avocado toast. My tip to you, and you will most definitely thank me later, is to order the open faced avocado toast but add an order of prosciutto. You get the creamy, buttery flavor of the avocado, with the salty, smoky flavor of the prosciutto all with the crispy texture of the toast, and it is delicious. They do also offer steel-cut oatmeal with a variety of toppings for those looking for a healthier option.

 

I would be remiss if I didn't also mention they have a full espresso bar, with lattes, cappuccinos and other caffeinated treats. And a fresh, organic juice bar for smoothies and juices!

 

Lunch is where they truly shine, and the time of day I am most likely to come in and devour one of their delicious offerings. They have some lovely salad options, but I have such an affinity for their sandwiches that I unfortunately tend to forego their leafy delicacies. When I'm trying to be "good," and not a total glutton, I will order the Ham, Fontina and Pear sandwich. Salty and sweet, but with the tang of honey mustard. When I am super hungry, I order the slow cooked Berkshire Pork Sandwich, which has melted cheese on a buttered ciabatta toast, a red onion-currant chutney and is topped with a mound of slow-cooked pork. I don't know that there are any words that can do it justice - so you're just going to have to try it for yourself. They have free-range rotisserie chicken sandwiches, as well as options for vegetarians and vegans. And don't forget a cup of one of their delicious homemade soups - I have yet to try one I didn't absolutely love.

Dinner is kind of a new thing for them - but not to be overlooked! Among their selections include classic home-style options such as Meatloaf and Roasted Chicken, as well as modern fare like Crispy Pork Belly and Roasted Local Cod. If you are a cheese lover, I highly recommend the Quinoa Mac & Cheese, an updated version of the classic macaroni & cheese, with quinoa pasta and a sauce made from goat cheese and gouda. On Fridays, they have a special Farmers Market Night, where their chef creates a meal inspired by seasonal farmer's market selections.

If you are looking for good food in a casual, relaxed atmosphere, Carmel Belle is definitely the choice for you. Order at the counter and then take a seat in the middle of the light and airy Doud Craft Studios and your food will be served in just the right amount of time to take in all the lovely shops surrounding you.

Thanksgiving Weekend in Carmel: 11/27 - 11/30

We hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! If you aren't too busy with Black Friday Shopping, we encourage you to check out some of our local events taking place today and throughout this weekend.

Our friends over at Ag Venture Tours are offering half day tours this week for $75-80 per person. On Friday 11/28, visit three tasting rooms (Chateau Julian, Heller Estate and Bookenoogen) on their Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour.

The Crossroads in Carmel is holding a Holiday Open House on November 29th from 11 am until 3 pm in celebration of the holidays and Small Business Saturday. Come listen to festive holiday music, enjoy delicious treats, sweets and beverages and grab a Crossroads tote bag full of special offers and events from participating retailers. The Crossroads are located off Highway 1 at Rio Road.

If you love music, check out Chris Isaak's Holiday Tour at the Sunset Center on Saturday at 8:00 pm. Tickets range from $79 to $99.

Have a great weekend!

Mondays on Mission Street: Diggidy Dog, A Dog and Cat Boutique

Of course for this week's "Mondays on Mission Street," I debated choosing another one of the wonderful restaurants within walking distance of us. While food will always be my first and everlasting true love, this week I'd like to focus on something else near and dear to my heart - my precious pooch, Charley. Luckily for us, Carmel is home to an abundance of shops, restaurants and hotels that are not only pet-friendly, but also cater specifically to a canine clientele. In honor of Carmel's penchant for pampered pets, I present to you my personal favorite, Diggidy Dog, a Dog and Cat Boutique located on the SW Corner of Mission Street and Ocean Avenue. Diggidy Dog carries a vast array of different products and specialty items for our furry friends and is just a short walk down the street from us here at Tradewinds!

Diggidy Dog

Mission St. & Ocean Ave.

831.625.1585

 

Hours:

10:00 am to 6:00 pm daily

 

I personally consider Diggidy Dog to be the Neiman Marcus of pet stores. Say goodbye to those huge chain stores, with the 90's fluorescent lighting, and hello to your new favorite place to spoil your pet! With so many items in their inventory, its difficult not to find what you're looking for, plus a few extras. They offer a large variety of gourmet treats beyond the standard biscuits, a giant assortment of leashes, clothing, collars and other wearable accessories for the fashion conscious, and a plethora of plush, luxury bedding. Additionally, they carry Earthbath grooming products, which Charley and I like to use after a long, sea salt water and sand-filled day at the beach.

 

We give Diggidy Dog two paws up for its convenient location and extensive collection of pet products. Don't forget to check them out next time you're here in Carmel!

This Weekend in Carmel: 11/21-11/23

Carmel is starting to become a little more festive this weekend as we head into the holiday season. With Thanksgiving rapidly approaching, we begin our countdown until Christmas and New Years, and with that comes a season of holiday shopping for friends and family.

Begin your holiday shopping early and take advantage of the 44th Annual Homecrafters Marketplace, an annual craft fair featuring over 100 hand-selected vendors from Monterey and neighboring counties. The event is held on Saturday, November 22nd, from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm in the parking lot at Sunset Center. 

Also held on Saturday from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm is the Annual Holiday Faire at the Church of the Wayfarer (on Lincoln and 7th). 

The Callaway Golf Invitational, which began yesterday, continues through Sunday the 23rd at the Pebble Beach Golf Links. Come see your favorite professional and amateur golfers in a more intimate, relaxed setting. If you need some convincing, the weather here has been beautiful lately, and admission to the invitational is free.

Finally, nothing says "It's the Holiday Season" like the opening weekend of Ice Skating by the Bay, a seasonal ice skating rink located at the Custom House Plaza in Monterey. The rink is open daily, Monday through Saturday from 11 am until 10 pm and on Sundays from 12 pm until 8pm. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for children 12 and under, and skate rentals are available for $3.

We hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and gets plenty of exercise in anticipation of Thanksgiving next week. 

Cheers to a happy and healthy holiday season!