La Bicyclette Restaurant
French
Dolores St & 7th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
OUR SCORE
Accolades
- Awarded the "Bib Gourmand" by the Michelin Guide
- Named one of the "Best Restaurants in Carmel" by Travel + Leisure
- Featured in the "Top 100 Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in America" by OpenTable Diners’ Choice Awards
- Rated as one of the "Best French Restaurants in California" by TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice
- Winner of the "Certificate of Excellence" from TripAdvisor for multiple years
- Recognized by Wine Spectator for an "Award of Excellence" for its wine list
Restaurant Summary
La Bicyclette Restaurant is a charming culinary establishment that graces the picturesque area of Carmel, a stone's throw from the sweeping vistas of Big Sur. This eatery exudes a rustic European ambiance that seamlessly blends with the relaxed sophistication of California's central coast. Upon entering La Bicyclette, guests are instantly welcomed by the warm, inviting atmosphere fostered by the cozy wood-fired oven, exposed brick walls, and delicately arranged fresh flowers that adorn each table.
The restaurant prides itself on a devotion to locally sourced ingredients, a passion that is palpable in every dish that emerges from the bustling kitchen. La Bicyclette's menu is a celebration of seasonal produce, artfully crafted into an array of dishes that pay homage to both classic European cuisine and the rich culinary heritage of the region.
For starters, one might indulge in the Charcuterie Board, an assortment of cured meats, artisan cheeses, and pickled vegetables, perfect for pairing with a selection from the restaurant's extensive wine list. The Wood Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts, tossed with pancetta and a balsamic glaze, offer a smoky, savory prelude to the main course.
A standout entrée is the Provençal-inspired Bouillabaisse, a fragrant seafood stew brimming with local catch – from plump mussels to tender fish – simmered in a saffron-infused tomato broth. Carnivores may gravitate towards the succulent Lamb Shank, slow-braised to perfection and accompanied by a symphony of root vegetables and a rich, herbed jus.
Pasta enthusiasts can savor the house-made Pappardelle, ribbon-like strands of pasta tossed with a robust ragù of short ribs that have been braised until they yield their full depth of flavor. For those seeking a lighter option, the Wood-Fired Pizzas are a canvas of crisp, thin crust topped with gourmet ingredients like wild mushrooms, goat cheese, and truffle oil.
No dining experience at La Bicyclette would be complete without a foray into dessert. The Chocolate Pot de Crème is an indulgent ode to chocolate lovers, while the Lemon Tart provides a zesty counterpoint, a balance of sweetness and tartness crowned with a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
With a dedication to culinary excellence and a setting that captures the essence of its vibrant surroundings, La Bicyclette Restaurant is more than just a dining destination; it's an experience that captures the heart and soul of Big Sur and Carmel's gastronomic culture.
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