ALONG COMES MARY

I visited Carmel-by-the-Sea for the first time over a decade ago. Way back then, I was impressed at the ease of gluten-free dining. Fast forward to today, and we’ve visited as a family almost a dozen times since. Each trek, I’ve been lucky to discover more gluten-free gems throughout the quaint Carmel-by-the-Sea village.

Whether I’m feeling fancy, laid-back, or take out, Carmel-by-the-Sea has a gluten-free plate for all those occasions. Read on to plan a gluten-free adventure in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Gluten-free in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Jeju Kitchen

No joke: we ate here multiple times on our last visit. Jeju combines a great blend of Korean and American dishes while being mindful of allergen-friendly dishes. I always have their Korean glass noodles, and Mike’s tried a great variety, from the ramen to burgers. The vibe is diverse; it’s extremely kid-friendly yet cozy for date night. If pups are in tow, they also boast a patio to spread out for dining al fresco.

Perfectly Pressed

Just across from Jeju is Perfectly Pressed. Being a popular juicery in Carmel-by-the-Sea, all items here are gluten-free. Think Erewhon meets Sun Life vibes. The drinks may not be the cheapest, but they’re delicious and ideal for that healthy refuel.

Porta Bella

Porta Bella looks like a fairytale cottage that’s come. And just in time to life to serve you a cozy meal. I expected trolls and hobbits to be inside as I arrived for my take-out. The atmosphere is intimate and a bit romantic. My chicken dinner was hearty and just what I needed after we had a long day at the beach.

Dametra Cafe

Mike and I have loved Dametra since that first visit long ago. Some are lucky to catch the owners even serenading the diners. Dametra’s menu is Mediterranean-driven, so many items are naturally gluten-free. I always go for their spinach salad or dolmas.

La Bicyclette

Since I discovered La Bicyclette’s gluten-free pizza, I’ve looked forward to it on each visit. We’ve yet to dine in and opt for to-go, but the bistro has French vibes, a lively environment, and is dimly lit in the evenings. They can also accommodate for dairy-free.

Flaherty’s Seafood Grill and Oyster Bar

A “must” for anyone gluten-free in town. Flaherty’s makes gluten-free seafood easy. We’re talking calamari, fried shrimp, and even clam chowder. As a huge fan of the latter, I never leave town without a bowl (or two) of their Manhattan.

Fifth Avenue Deli

We love to pop into Fifth Avenue Deli on our way to the beach. The locals’ favorite offers hot and cold sandwiches, soups, salads, breakfast burritos, and local wines. For the gluten-free department, I always grab a few of their hot tamales. They’re perfect to enjoy while we chill on the sand.

Carmel Bakery

Although the Carmel Bakery has a lone gluten-free offering, it’s a goody. On each visit, I never leave town without their chocolate marzipan pastry. Mind you, I’m not usually a big marzipan fan. It’s rich, flaky, and I always buy more than one. The bakery often has a line out the door given their variety of baked goods, coffees, and even ice cream.

Cafe Carmel

Another cozy coffee house is Cafe Carmel. While the gluten-free offerings are next to slim, we know by now that I have a sweet tooth. When I pop in here, I grab their gluten-free brownie. It’s individually wrapped to ensure cross-contamination safety, and it’s a “legit” brownie. Pair it with one of their espresso concoctions, and you have a sweet match made in heaven.

Where to Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea

If luxury and steps from the beach are in order, check in to the La Playa Hotel. We were so impressed with their daily breakfast included with our stay. Even better? Over half of the wide spread is gluten-free. Waffles made to order, muffins, omelets, fruit, cheese, meats, are all prepared gluten-free. The icing on the cake? The daily morning menu also includes mimosas.

Even though the breakfast was impressive, our hearts do belong to the Hofsas House Hotel. Except for our one-off stay with La Playa, we always stay at the Hofsas. Each visit feels like “home.” They offer a convenient continental breakfast with cereals, yogurt, fruit, local pastries, and coffee. Hofsas is at the beginning of the village, which we always enjoy for the ease of walking to restaurants and the shops. If kiddos are along, there’s a great playground nearby. Plenty of parking, too.

Wherever a trek takes you in Carmel-by-the-Sea, know you’ll be in good hands for excellent gluten-free dining. Cheers!