El Bistro by the Sea
Our verdict
El Bistro is one of Carmel’s newer Mexican restaurants and an instant brunch favorite. Start with a café de olla (warm, spiced, and perfect) then dive into their lineup of French toasts (there are many, and yes, the cinnamon one is incredible). It’s bright, tasty, and a fun alternative to the usual Carmel brunch circuit.
Pearl is the En Primeur Club membership app — saves, bookings, and concierge access live there. Same editors, same standards.
- Address
- Mission and, 5th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921
- Phone
- (831) 309-8264
- Hours
- Mon–Sat 7:30 AM–3:30 PMSun Closed
- Website
- linktr.ee
- Directions
- Get directions

The menu
What to order
- Chorizo chilaquiles
- Tiramisu French toast
- Nutella lava cake French toast
- Four-egg chile relleno omelet
- Carnitas barbecue burger
- Bacon birria burger
El Bistro is one of Carmel’s newer Mexican restaurants and an instant brunch favorite. Start with a café de olla (warm, spiced, and perfect) then dive into their lineup of French toasts (there are many, and yes, the cinnamon one is incredible). It’s bright, tasty, and a fun alternative to the usual Carmel brunch circuit.
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- Cozy
- Trendy
- Lively
- Brunch
- Casual Hangout
- Family
- Group Dining
- Date Night
- Standalone
- Terrace
- Design Destination
- A La Carte
- Coffee
- Nonalcoholic Specialty Drinks
- Vegetarian Friendly
Current opening hours
- Monday
- 7:30 AM–3:30 PM
- Tuesday
- 7:30 AM–3:30 PM
- Wednesday
- 7:30 AM–3:30 PM
- Thursday
- 7:30 AM–3:30 PM
- Friday
- 7:30 AM–3:30 PM
- Saturday
- 7:30 AM–3:30 PM
- Sunday
- Closed
Hours can change for holidays and private events. Last verified .














